Allergies are caused by a reaction to certain proteins found primarily in oil secretions from a dog’s skin and in a dog’s saliva. It is not hair itself that causes allergies. When your dog sheds hair or its skin flakes, proteins are carried into the environment where they may cause an allergic reaction.

Contrary to what you may have heard, "hypoallergenic" dogs do not exist. It is suggested that the hair of some breeds (such as the Poodle and Bichon Frise) helps prevent more allergens getting into the environment, but many 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.

• Wipe smooth surfaces in the home regularly and vacuum frequently.
• Frequently wash any bedding that your dog sleeps on.
• Possibly restrict access to certain areas of the house. The allergic person’s bedroom is a definite no-dog zone.
• Hard floors retain fewer allergens and are easier to clean than carpet.
• If you have only a few rooms in your house with carpet, you probably should keep your dog out of those.
• Upholstered furniture will retain a lot of allergens. You may choose to keep dogs off this furniture or not allow access to those rooms.