You may want a dog but are concerned about any allergies you or someone in your family may have. Perhaps you already have a dog and have found your allergy is a problem. The good news is that people with allergies and dogs can live together!

Allergies to dogs are caused by a reaction to certain proteins found in oils secreted from a dog's skin and in their saliva - it is not hair itself that causes allergies. When your dog sheds hair, or its skin flakes off, these proteins are carried into the immediate environment where they may cause an allergic reaction.

Don't rely on immunity
Some people report developing an immunity to their dog i.e. they ' grow out' of the allergy. While this is certainly true for some, don't depend on it if you're getting a new dog. It is possible that an allergic reaction will get worse with more exposure.

Contrary to what you may have heard, there are no truly "hypoallergenic" dogs. It has been suggested that the hair of some breeds - such as poodles - helps prevent allergens getting into the environment, but many people report just as strong a reaction to these dogs. A small dog may provoke less allergic reaction than a larger one simply because he has less skin and hair to shed.

Once you have a dog, fastidiousness is the key to dealing with allergies. Wash your hands after you handle him, never touch your face or eyes after you've touched your dog. Wipe down smooth surfaces in the home regularly and vacuum frequently. Use air sterilisers and vacuum cleaners with filters. Frequently wash any bedding that your dog sleeps on.