[Baby dog ​​allergies] Precautions and benefits

When it comes to bringing a baby and a pet dog together, many people are especially concerned about animal allergies.

• Are babies prone to animal allergies?
• What are the symptoms of dog allergies?
• What precautions should I take and what measures can I take?

For those of you with these concerns, we will explain the symptoms and measures of allergies, as well as differences between dog breeds.

We will also introduce the benefits and precautions of living with pets.

Are babies more susceptible to animal allergies, such as cats and dogs?

Newborns' skin is sensitive and more susceptible to allergens than adults. They may also develop allergies to animals such as dogs and cats.

Allergies can cause itching on the skin, which can lead to scratching. Wounds can lead to bacteria entering the skin, so care must be taken.

If you already have a dog before having a baby, try shortening the time your baby spends with the dog to see if it causes a reaction. If you want to get a dog or cat after your baby is born, carefully consider when to get one.

[Baby's Dog Allergy] 3 Things You Should Know

We've compiled information you need to know about dog allergies in babies, including causes, treatments, and differences between dog breeds.

What are the causes of dog allergies and common symptoms?

Dog allergies are caused by dog ​​hair, dander, saliva, and urine.

Main allergy symptoms include runny nose, sneezing, bloodshot and watery eyes, coughing, and eczema. In severe cases, breathing difficulties and asthma may occur, so if symptoms appear, consult a pediatrician as soon as possible.

Especial care is needed during dog shedding seasons in spring and fall. As explained in more detail below, double-coated dog breeds often shed hair, which can cause allergies.

Are there any differences depending on the breed?

Dog hair can cause allergies, so special care is needed with dogs that shed a lot. Double-coated dog breeds, in particular, shed a lot of hair during the shedding season.

Double-coated dog breeds include Shiba Inu, Pomeranian, Border Collie, Corgi, Golden Retriever, and Dachshund.

If you already live with a double-coated dog, it's important to keep its coat clean by brushing it frequently and shampooing it regularly in a separate room from your baby.

If you're looking to get a dog now, choose a single-coated breed that doesn't shed.

We recommend the Toy Poodle. Other breeds that don't shed include the Yorkshire Terrier, Shih Tzu, and Maltese.

For more information on the symptoms and treatment of dog allergies, please refer to this article.

What are the symptoms and treatment of dog allergies? Introducing easy-to-keep dog breeds

What can you do for your baby?

The key to preventing allergies in babies is to create a clean environment.

• Clean the air in your home

To prevent allergens from building up in your home, open the windows regularly to ventilate the room on sunny days.

On rainy or cold days, we recommend using an air purifier to clean the air in your home.

• Do not use a vacuum cleaner

Vacuuming can disturb allergens, so avoid it.

We recommend using a flooring sheet or similar to wipe the floor.

Also, wash your carpets regularly to keep them clean.

• Clean even in places you can't see

When cleaning, clean every corner of the room. If dog hair or dust accumulates in places you can't see, it can cause allergies.

• Wash curtains and sheets

Wash curtains and futon sheets regularly. Even if you clean your room, allergens on curtains and other items will fly off when you open and close them.

It's recommended to wash loungewear daily.

• Separate Rooms

If your baby has severe allergies, place them in a separate room from your dog. However, be careful not to leave your dog alone for long periods of time.

If separating rooms is difficult, we recommend at least separating the sleeping area.

• Keep your dog clean

To reduce the risk of allergies, keep your dog clean at all times. Brush away loose hair before it flies off, and shampoo regularly, such as monthly.

Once your baby's allergy symptoms have subsided, you'll be able to communicate with your dog.

[Living with a Dog] Three Benefits for Owners and Babies

Here are three benefits for babies and families:

① Positive Effects on Babies' Minds

Interacting with pets such as dogs and cats has a positive emotional impact on babies. Pets also express emotions such as happiness and joy, so babies can learn about these emotions.

As babies grow, they will develop a sense of compassion as they care for older dogs and cats.

② Improving your baby's immunity

Reports suggest that babies in homes with pets are less likely to catch a cold.

Source

A Finnish university hospital conducted a study and found that contact with animals, such as dogs, helps develop the immune system in babies.

While there are concerns about allergies, there are also reports that exposure to allergens can actually make babies less likely to develop them.

However, when babies live with pets, you need to be careful about infectious diseases. Be sure to vaccinate dogs and cats.

③ The Soothing Effect When Tired of Childcare

Babies are adorable, but raising children can be hard work. Many pet owners say that pets are a great way to soothe them during times like these.

As evidenced by the existence of therapy dogs, interacting with dogs has proven beneficial effects, such as making people smile and reducing stress.

Dogs and cats also have maternal instincts, so they'll likely snuggle with your baby and treat him or her tenderly. Seeing them like that is soothing and calming for your baby. 　　　

Going outside to walk your dog can also help refresh your mind when you're feeling down after parenting.

【Living with a Dog】Things to Keep in Mind Before and After Living Together

Things to be careful of when living together

The most important thing to be careful of when living with a baby and a dog is the risk of the dog biting the baby and injuring it. Especially if you already have a dog before the baby arrives, the dog may become jealous of the baby and attack it.

Also, unpredictable baby movements can be stressful for dogs. Make sure the owner is always nearby so that the dog and baby are not left alone.

When the baby sleeps, have them sleep in a bed with railings and in a separate room.

Be careful about the timing of cohabitation

If you are getting a dog after the birth of a baby, avoid getting one right after the birth.

A newborn baby's daily routine is still not settled, so owners often suffer from sleep deprivation. Because they don't have time to spend with their dog, they can't train it or build a strong relationship with it.

Once your baby is about 3 to 6 months old, they'll get used to living with a newborn. It's best to get a dog when you feel comfortable bringing it in.

Also, as mentioned above, be sure to vaccinate your baby to prevent them from transmitting dog-borne pathogens.

In addition, be sure to maintain a clean environment by washing dog dishes separately from human dishes, cleaning up after your pet quickly, and regularly shampooing your dog.

Preparing for Living Together

If you already have a dog, make the following preparations before welcoming a newborn into your home.

Training Key Points

• Have your dog return to you when you call its name.
• Teach it to "wait."
• Allow your dog to touch its body, mouth, and ears at any time.
• Brush it daily to keep it clean.
• Prepare a dog pen and get it used to being in it.

Training your dog to obey your commands can help prevent unexpected accidents. Be sure to train your dog properly even before the baby is born.

Make sure your dog has a comfortable place in the playpen or crate. Get your dog used to being there so that it won't mind.

Other Points

• Pay attention to the height of the crib.
• Appoint someone to take care of the dog after you bring the baby home.

When preparing a crib, make sure it's high enough so that the dog can't reach the baby.

Also, if the baby's mother is primarily responsible for caring for the dog, it's a good idea to designate someone to rely on while the baby is raising the dog. If you're asking a family member or friend, it's a good idea to get them used to being with the dog beforehand. If you're hiring a pet sitter, it's best to confirm the terms and conditions beforehand to ensure a smooth process.

Things to Keep in Mind When Living Together

When living with a dog and a baby, keep the following points in mind.

Don't leave your dog and baby alone

Don't assume that your dog is always gentle with your baby, so don't leave your dog and baby alone or spend time alone together. If your baby does something your dog dislikes, he may be startled and bite you.

Teach your baby how to interact with your dog

When living with a dog, you need to teach your baby the rules. If there are any areas or things your dog doesn't like to be touched, let your baby know about them. Of course, be sure to also teach your dog what makes him happy.

Maintain Your Relationship with Your Dog

The most important thing is the relationship between you and your dog. After the baby is born, you may be busy and have less time to spend with your dog, but make sure to find time to spend with him.

By calming your dog's mind, he will be able to adjust to life with your baby more quickly.

Summary (Baby's Dog Allergy)

Keeping the dog and the room clean can help reduce or prevent allergy symptoms. Take measures such as separating the sleeping areas to ensure your precious family members, your baby and dog, live happily together.