Can People With Dog Allergies Have Yorkshire Terriers? What You Need to Know

Yorkshire Terriers are not hypoallergenic, but they are less likely to cause allergic reactions in people with dog allergies than many other breeds. However, because Yorkies are often marketed as hypoallergenic, it's important to know what contributes to their allergen levels. Yorkies are not completely hypoallergenic. Like all dogs, they produce pet dander, saliva, and urine which contain allergens. However, Yorkies are often listed as one of the more hypoallergenic dog breeds because they have hair coats instead of fur, and they tend to shed less dander than other breeds.

To better understand whether Yorkies are a good choice for people with allergies, we will review veterinary research on the allergens produced by Yorkies. We will also examine studies that have measured allergen levels in different dog breeds to determine which dog characteristics are most likely to cause problems for people with dog allergies. By the end of this evidence-based investigation, you will have a better understanding of what hypoallergenic means and be better able to decide if a Yorkie is a good choice for your household.

Yorkie Shedding and Dander Production

Although Yorkies are low-shedding dogs, they still produce dander, which is a common allergen that can cause allergic reactions in people. According to The Native Pet, Yorkies have a single layer of fine, silky hair instead of an undercoat, which is why they shed less than other dogs. The American Kennel Club even rates Yorkies as a 1 out of 5 on their shedding scale, which is the lowest rating possible.

That said, as Yorkie Info Center points out, dander is a natural byproduct of skin turnover in all dogs. While Yorkies may produce less dander than dogs with double coats, their dander is still shed. Pets Satisfaction even explains that regular grooming can help reduce dander by getting rid of dead hair and skin cells from the Yorkie's coat.

In the end, while grooming and keeping a clean home are important for controlling dander, Rover.com warns that no dog is completely hypoallergenic because all dogs produce dander and saliva, which can cause allergic reactions. This is important to keep in mind as we look at ways that people with allergies can live with a Yorkie.

Living with Yorkies: Coping With Allergies and Asthma

Although Yorkies are often listed as a dog breed that is safe for people with allergies, no dog is truly hypoallergenic. Allergies are caused by proteins in dog dander and saliva, and even low-shedding dogs like Yorkies still produce these allergens, which can cause reactions in people who are sensitive to them, according to The Native Pet.

People with mild dog allergies can often successfully live with a Yorkie by making lifestyle changes such as regular grooming, creating pet-free areas in the home, and using air purifiers. Yorkie Clothing notes that regular grooming and keeping the home clean are especially important for minimizing exposure to allergens.

On the other hand, people with severe allergies or asthma may have trouble living with a Yorkie and should see an allergist before bringing one home. According to Hepper, while Yorkies are less likely to cause allergic reactions, there are no guarantees, and reactions can vary from person to person.

Yorkies produce fewer allergens than larger dogs, but Nom Nom advises that people who are allergic to dogs should still monitor for allergy symptoms when bringing a Yorkie into their home. In addition to regular grooming, a clean home, and a healthy diet, preventive measures can help Yorkies with their own allergies and reduce the allergens they produce.

Yorkies and Asthma: What It Means for You

Despite the fact that hypoallergenic breeds like Yorkies are often recommended for people with asthma, studies have shown that no dog breed is truly hypoallergenic. This is because all dogs produce proteins that can cause an immune response and exacerbate asthma symptoms, regardless of breed or coat type. Even the American College of Asthma, Allergy, and Immunology has said that the presence of so-called "hypoallergenic" dogs in a home does not lower dog allergen levels.

Other factors, such as excessive drooling or dry skin, can also lead to higher allergen levels and should be taken into account for people with asthma. The Spruce Pets says that breeds that are known for excessive drooling, like bulldogs and Saint Bernards, may not be the best choice for people with asthma. In addition, VetDERM Clinic explains that dogs with dry skin can lead to higher dander levels.

While Yorkies may be a better option than some other breeds, Asthma.net points out that shedding is more important than hair length when it comes to asthma triggers, as dander is the primary allergen. That said, individual reactions can vary, and it's best to have an in-home test done to determine potential asthma triggers before bringing a Yorkie into your home.

Grooming and Environmental Factors for Allergy Sufferers

Frequent brushing and grooming are important for managing a Yorkie's low-shedding coat and keeping their long hair healthy. Per TryFi, Yorkies have hair instead of fur, so they shed less than dogs with undercoats. Regular grooming can also help keep dander and other allergens under control in the house.

In addition, allergy sufferers can reduce their exposure to allergens by setting up pet-free areas in the home and using air purifiers. Georgia Puppies Online suggests that allergy sufferers can also vacuum and wash their dog's bedding regularly and use hypoallergenic cleaning products to keep their home as allergy-free as possible.

Since Hepper points out that no dog is completely hypoallergenic, consistent grooming and environmental control are important for people with allergies who have a Yorkie. Although Yorkies are known for being less allergenic, Yorkie Clothing explains that it's important to keep up with regular grooming and cleaning to keep allergens at bay.

Conclusion: How to Make an Informed Choice About Having a Yorkie If You Have Pet Allergies

Although Yorkies are often advertised as hypoallergenic, they still produce allergens that can cause reactions in people with allergies. However, no dog is completely hypoallergenic because allergic reactions are caused by proteins in dander, saliva, and urine.

While Yorkies may be less likely to cause allergies due to their low-shedding and low-dander-producing coats, the level of reaction can still vary. Good grooming, environmental control, and monitoring for allergies are important for people with allergies who want to have a Yorkie. Working with an allergist and doing an in-home test can help you determine if you can have a Yorkie if you have allergies or asthma.