Continued from Pick the Perfect Pooch, Page 1

Don't forget to take allergies into account when selecting your new dog.  Momlogic contributor and pediatrician Dr. Cara Natterson says that about 10% of the U.S. population is allergic to animals. If a person has asthma, his chances of having an animal allergy go up to 1 in 4.  Some people simply experience itchy, watery eyes and sneezing. For others, allergies can trigger serious problems like breathing difficulties.

Dr. Cara tells us, "Hypoallergenic dogs are dogs that cause 'reduced allergic symptoms.' This doesn't mean that an allergic person will be completely symptom-free around a hypoallergenic pet. That would be a 'non-allergenic' dog."

She says most people are allergic to the dander dogs shed. Fur can also be a problem, because it collects allergens, including dust and mold--but dander is a bigger culprit. Dogs that shed less tend to cause fewer allergic symptoms than those with heavier coats.

What kind of dog has your kid been bugging you for? 

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