Scientists used gene editing to make these beagles allergy-friendly

Dog allergies could become less of a barrier to pet ownership, thanks to a scientific breakthrough that could eliminate common symptoms like sneezing, itchy eyes, and skin rashes.

In a world first, researchers gene-edited twin beagles to eliminate the main protein responsible for dog allergies, biotech startup Kindred Companion Sciences announced yesterday.

How the technology works
Scientists used CRISPR technology to switch off the gene that produces the main allergy-causing protein before the puppies were born.

Founder Matt Walker, a geneticist who is allergic to dogs, led and participated in the experiment:

Scientists injected CRISPR-edited beagle skin cells into a beagle surrogate’s egg, resulting in the birth of Alfie and Bailey in September 2024. Tests detected no allergy-causing protein in either pup’s saliva or fur, and both dogs were deemed healthy.

Walker has lived with Bailey for nearly two years without an allergic reaction. Skin-prick tests also showed no reaction to the beagles.

Researchers believe the breakthrough could eventually lead to allergy-friendly pets, but they caution that more work is needed before they become widely available. 

Scientists plan to conduct larger human studies and monitor the dogs over the long term to ensure the genetic change remains safe and effective.

Ethical questions remain
Some experts have also raised ethical concerns, warning that engineered pets could reduce interest in adopting animals from shelters. 

If future studies prove successful, researchers hope to apply the technology to more dog breeds and service animals, offering new hope to people who have always wanted a dog despite their allergies.