Can You Be Allergic to Dog Saliva?

Dog allergies affect 10–20% of the global population. If you’ve ever noticed allergy symptoms after being kissed by a dog, you’re probably wondering if their saliva is the culprit. 

The short answer? Yes, it is possible to be allergic to dog saliva, says Purvi Parikh, MD, FACAAI, a NYC-based allergist and immunologist and spokesperson for the Allergy & Asthma Network. 

Read on to learn more about how dog saliva may contribute to your pet allergies and how to manage them. 

How Dog Saliva Causes Allergies

A dog’s saliva contains Can f1, a protein that can cause an allergic reaction, says Dr. Parkhi. This protein is also found in dog urine and dander, and it becomes airborne as pets shed and clean themselves. 

“A common misconception is that dog hair causes allergies. However, pet dander, saliva, and urine are the primary causes of allergic symptoms,” says Stephanie Kayode, BSc, MBChB, MRCP, a London-based allergy physician. “All three can transfer onto and accumulate on dog hair as pets shed skin and groom themselves.” 

In people with a dog allergy, the immune system mistakenly identifies proteins in dog saliva as harmful, she says. In response, the immune system releases chemicals, such as histamine, into the bloodstream and surrounding tissues, triggering an allergic reaction. 

Common Symptoms of Dog Allergies

Dog allergies usually develop over time. “Your immune system needs to see something multiple times for it to develop the allergy and react to it,” Dr. Parikh says. 

According to Dr. Parikh, common dog allergy symptoms may include: 

• Itchy skin 

• Hives 

• Itchy watery eyes 

• Stuffy nose 

• Sneezing 

• Coughing 

• Wheezing 

• Shortness of breath and other asthma symptoms. 

• Sore throat 

• Eczema 

Luckily, Dr. Parikh says it’s very rare for dog allergies to cause anaphylaxis. However, asthma can commonly occur and can be deadly if uncontrolled.  

Always seek medical attention to help you manage your dog allergy symptoms. 

Can You Be Allergic to a Hypoallergenic Dog’s Saliva?

Yes, you can be allergic to a hypoallergenic dog’s saliva. Though some breeds like Portuguese Water Dogs, Poodles, and Goldendoodles have a reputation for being allergen-friendly, Dr. Parikh says they still carry the protein Can f 1. 

Dr. Kayode says there is no single dog breed that is truly hypoallergenic, meaning they produce no allergens.  

“Some breeds produce more allergens than others,” she explains. “But tolerance to a given breed can vary from person to person, depending on individual sensitivities.” 

Dr. Kayode adds that it may be possible to find a specific breed that causes fewer symptoms and helps you manage your allergies.  

For example, she says short-haired, hairless, and low-shedding dog breeds can be good options because they spread fewer dander allergens. However, allergic reactions are still possible with these dog breeds.

Allergic to Dog Saliva? Here’s How to Manage

If you suspect you’re allergic to dogs, Dr. Kayode recommends seeing your doctor for a skin prick test or a blood test. 

Your doctor may prescribe you medications such as antihistamines, steroid nasal sprays, eye drops, or, in some cases, asthma inhalers. Additionally, Dr. Parikh says allergy shots may reduce sensitivity to dogs over time, though they’re not a cure for dog allergies.  

Pet parents can take extra measures to reduce allergen exposure in their home. Dr. Kayode recommends: 

• Keeping your dogs away from your bed 

• Using a HEPA-filter air purifier to reduce the buildup of dog allergens inside the home 

• Washing dog bedding and blankets at high temperatures 

• Cleaning carpets and rugs regularly using a HEPA-filter vacuum 

• Bathing your dog often and trimming their hair short