Are Scottish Terriers Hypoallergenic?
If you are looking to add a furry friend to your family but suffer from allergies, it's crucial to consider hypoallergenic dog breeds
These breeds are known to produce fewer allergens and are less likely to cause allergic reactions in sensitive individuals
One such breed that sometimes comes up in discussions of hypoallergenic dogs is the Scottish Terrier
So, are Scottish Terriers really hypoallergenic?
To answer that question, we must first understand what makes a dog hypoallergenic
Contrary to popular belief, it is not the dog's fur that causes allergies but rather the proteins in their skin cells, urine, and saliva
These allergen proteins, known as Can f 1, are released into the environment as the dog sheds dander and hair
While no dog breed is completely hypoallergenic, some breeds are more likely to be tolerated by individuals with allergies
These hypoallergenic breeds produce fewer allergens or have a different coat type that minimizes allergy triggers
Unfortunately, Scottish Terriers do not fall into this category
Scottish Terriers have a dense double coat that is not considered hypoallergenic
Their outer coat is wiry and hard, while the undercoat is soft and dense
Both layers shed moderately throughout the year, which means that allergens can be present in your home even if you regularly groom them
Additionally, Scottish Terriers produce oils in their skin that can also cause allergic reactions
Due to these factors, Scottish Terriers are not recommended for individuals with allergies