A study on the allergens profile of various dog breeds in Tirupati, Andhra Pradesh

Dog saliva is a significant source of proteins with physiological roles in the oral cavity, yet it is closely linked to triggering allergies in handlers, predisposing them to various dermal and respiratory conditions. Certain dog breeds are reported to be better tolerated by allergic individuals, often labeled as 'hypo-allergenic.' Dog saliva contains six major allergens (Can f 1 to Can f 6), with Can f 1 being the most abundant. This study aimed to assess the allergen profile across different dog breeds in the Tirupati region, Andhra Pradesh, a semi-arid area with high pet ownership, and to evaluate associated IgG reactivity in dog owners. We collected 70 saliva samples from breeds including Labrador, German Shepherd, Beagle, Golden Retriever, and Pomeranian during the dry season (May-July 2025), analyzing their protein profiles via SDS-PAGE to confirm allergen status. Of these, 7 samples (10%) displayed a 20 kDa band with Coomassie Brilliant Blue staining, identifying Can f 1 as a viable antigen. Additionally, 24 blood samples from dog owners were analyzed for IgG reactivity using Indirect ELISA, revealing 24 sera samples as IgG-positive to dog saliva (OD; median, 0.801; range, 0.160-1.045). Results indicated a strong linear correlation for IgG reactivity in ELISA, with German Shepherds exhibiting a higher allergenic potential compared to other breeds. SDS-PAGE and ELISA proved effective for identifying dog allergens and assessing allergy risk, providing a foundation for tailored allergen avoidance strategies, and informing public health policies amid rising pet-related allergies in tropical regions.