Orange County Register

During Barack Obama’s victory speech last week, he made a very specific promise to two Americans — a puppy for his daughters to bring to the White House. Later at a news conference, he revealed that 10-year-old Malia (far left) suffers from allergies and they would need a hypoallergenic dog.

Well, the American Academy of Allergy, Asthma and Immunology has some bad news:

It is a common misconception that people are allergic to a dog’s hair, and it is falsely believed that a dog that sheds less will not cause a reaction. However, allergies to pets are caused by protein found in the animal’s dander (dead skin cells), saliva or urine. These proteins are carried on microscopic particles through the air. When inhaled, they trigger reactions in allergic people. As all dogs posses these proteins, there is no allergy-free dog.

But breeders tout poodles, bichons and terriers as suitable for allergy suffers. The allergy doctors say that’s likely because they are groomed more often, which removes dander.

Here are some of their tips for avoiding allergy symptoms:

Bathe the pet weekly

Keep the pet out of the room of the allergy sufferer

Wash bedding and clothing in hot water to help remove allergens

The Register’s pet columnist Maryanne Dell says she has a friend who takes lots of allergy medicine so she can have dogs and cats.

What’s your pet advice for the soon-to-be First Family? Are there breeds you’ve found to be best for allergies? Are you a dog-lover who suffers with the sniffles? Let us know below.

And take a poll on what kind of pup the girls should get.

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