Everywhere you look there’s another article about President-Elect Obama’s search for a hypoallergenic dog. So, is there any dog that truly fits the criteria?

The American Academy of Allergy, Asthma and Immunology (AAAAI) tried Wednesday to correct misconceptions about the matter, with the announcement Wednesday that there is “no truly hypoallergenic dog.”

“It is a common misconception that people are allergic to a dog’s hair, and it is falsely believed that dogs that shed less will not cause a reaction,” the AAAAI said

“However, allergies to pets are caused by protein found in the animal’s saliva and skin glands which gets deposited on the hair. These proteins are carried on microscopic particles through the air as an invisible aerosol. When inhaled, they trigger reactions in allergic people. As all dogs secrete these proteins, there is no allergy-free dog.”

There are some dogs that are less likely to aggravate allergies than others, those that are low or no shedding. On Dogster we’re having our own poll to see what type of dog you would choose as the new first dog.

The choice is out of the following dogs; Tibetan Terrier, Bichon Frise, Standard Poodle, Portuguese Water Dog, and Schnauzer. Run on over to the poll and select your choice, make your bark heard.

For those out there with allergies here are a few tips from the AAAAI:

*Keep pets out of the allergic person’s bedroom. Animal dander collects on pillows which can worsen symptoms during the night.

* Bathe animals weekly to reduce the amount of dander.

* Replace carpeting with hardwood or other solid surfaces for easier cleanups.

* Air filters (HEPA) may help clean the air.

* It may also be helpful to wash bedding and clothing in hot water.

Definitely good advice to keep in mind.

* So far the Schnauzer is first in the poll, so I chose Samson’s picture to post. That is one cute face!