Are Cocker Spaniels Hypoallergenic?

Jan 27, 2024

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Cocker Spaniels are popular family dogs with gentle, outgoing personalities. If you’re thinking of adopting one yourself, you might wonder, are Cocker Spaniels hypoallergenic?

Cocker Spaniels aren't hypoallergenic and do shed moderately. However, the label "hypoallergenic" isn't super accurate in the first place, as hypoallergenic breeds can still trigger allergy symptoms.

In this article, we’ll talk more about whether Cocker Spaniels are hypoallergenic, if you can own one while having dog allergies, and more.

©iStock.com/Bigandt_Photography

Many people refer to dogs with human-like hair, such as Poodles or Shih Tzus, as hypoallergenic. However, no dog is truly allergen-free.

If you’re allergic to dogs, you may be triggered by their fur, dander, saliva, or urine. In addition, different people are allergic to different proteins found in dogs–there are six of them in total.

Because most people aren't only allergic to dog fur, breeds that shed less can still trigger allergies. And sometimes dogs that shed more will trigger your specific allergies less than "hypoallergenic" dogs.

The best thing you can do as someone with allergies is to visit with the specific dog you’d like to adopt. I suggest to try triggering your allergies: rustle their fur, touch your face, and let the dog lick you. This way, you can get to know how you will respond to living with them.

Cocker Spaniels aren't hypoallergenic. While their long coats may make them look similar to other hypoallergenic dog breeds, they do shed moderately.

These dogs have double coats and shed more profusely when they blow their undercoats in the spring and fall.

©iStock.com/Eva Blanco

It's possible to live with a Cocker Spaniel despite your dog allergies–but it will likely mean putting up with unpleasant allergy symptoms to some extent.

If your allergies are severe, adopting any dog may be too big a risk to take. If they’re mild and you’re willing to live with your symptoms, owning a Cocker Spaniel is more possible.

Let's dive into some ways to decrease your dog allergy symptoms while living with a Cocker Spaniel, starting with what to do before adoption.

In conclusion, it is possible to own a Cocker Spaniel if you have mild dog allergies. However, Cocker Spaniels are not hypoallergenic and will still likely trigger your symptoms.

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