Bichon Frise: Are Bichon Frises Really Hypoallergenic?

Hy-po-al-ler-gen-ic (from Greek prefix hypo meaning "below normal" or "slightly")
: Having little likelihood of causing an allergic response<hypoallergenic cosmetics><hypoallergenic dogs>
Definition from Miriam-Webster Online Dictionary

Since Bichon Frises have often been promoted as being hypoallergenic, what does this really mean?

Even though “hypoallergenic” is an adjective commonly used to describe products that are unlikely to cause an allergic reaction, it is not a medical term therefore not subject to a certain standard for use. The term hypoallergenic originated with advertisers to describe textiles and cosmetics that claimed to cause fewer allergic reactions. As the prefix hypo implies it means “less” not “none”.

Although the Bichon Frise can be an excellent choice for those who have allergies, because they don’t shed, no dog is known to be completely not allergenic.

People tend to think that they are allergic to dog or cat hair. When actually allergic reactions are not caused by pet hair but by allergens found in proteins in the skin and shed as dander allergens. Dander allergens are the dead skin cells that are not only found in your pet’s hair but also in saliva, urine and can be transferred to your pet’s fur when they clean or lick themselves. Allergens can be very stubborn; they cling to clothes and furniture and can remain airborne for long periods of time.

Often an allergy can go undetected for some time since it takes multiple exposures to dander allergens to trigger an allergic reaction. If you think you might be allergic to your dog and of course you don’t want to get rid of your family pet, it’s important to learn how to manage your allergies.

So what can you do if you start getting red itchy eyes, runny nose and sneezing and wheezing and you suspect your faithful companion causes it? First check with your physician to see if you really are allergic to your little Bichon Frise, or if you’re allergic to something else, such as mold, dust or pollen. If you suspect or discover that your precious pet may be the culprit you can improve your environment by making the following changes.

To Allergen Proof Your Home:

• Use air cleaners and air filters.
  
• Increase surfaces that can be washed easily.
  
• Install vertical blinds instead of curtains.
  
• Steam-clean wall-to-wall carpeting or remove carpets.
  
• Vacuum frequently using a vacuum cleaner with a high allergen containment rating.
  

• Restrict your pet’s access to regularly used furniture and bedroom.
  
• Wash pets weekly with a special moisturizing allergy shampoo.
  
• Spray pet’s coat with an anti-allergy spray to help minimize allergies.
  
• Wash hands often when playing or grooming pet.
  
• Groom often to keep skin and coat healthy.
  
• Groom outside.
  
• Wear gloves and mask while grooming.
  

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