Experts: ‘Hypoallergenic’ Dog a Myth

Allergists have some news for the Obama family: There’s no such thing as a “hypoallergenic” dog. President-elect Barack Obama says that his family will get a dog when they move to the White House. He said his daughter Malia “is allergic, so it has to be hypoallergenic.” But all dogs produce the proteins that can cause allergies, experts told the Associated Press. The proteins are found in dander (dead skin cells), saliva and urine. Grooming and bathing can reduce symptoms, experts said. So can frequent cleaning and removing carpets.