Do hypoallergenic dogs really exist?

Much attention has been drawn to President-elect Barack Obama’s promise that a new puppy will have a place in the White House.

Obama’s 10-year-old daughter, Malia, suffers from allergies to dogs. But the American Academy of Allergy, Asthma & Immunology says there is no truly “hypoallergenic” dog.

It is a common misconception that people are allergic to a dog’s hair, the group says. Allergies to pets are caused by protein found in the animal’s dander (dead skin cells), saliva or urine. As all dogs posses these proteins, there is no allergy-free dog.

There are ways to minimize allergy symptoms, however, such as working with an allergist on treatment, reducing the allergic person’s exposure to dander, and properly cleaning the environment to reduce allergens.

-- American Academy of Allergy, Asthma & Immunology

Dog Tail Injuries

We all know that when the dog is waging it's tail means a happy dog. What else does a dog's tail tell us? A dog’s tail is also important for maintaining balance while running, turning quickly or while walking on narrow surfaces.

Common Dog Tail Injuries
My dog has a wound on his tail and is biting it, making it worse. How can I keep him from biting his tail?

Some dogs, especially dogs who had their tails improperly cropped may occasionally experience bleeding at the end of the tails. These injuries are very difficult to treat and the healing process is often slow.

Dog tails have a strong supply of blood and if the end of tail is injured it can bleed for a long time.Also, some breeds have tails that may get dry at the tip and may crack and bleed. You may consider a tail bandage for your dog. These bandages may be difficult to apply and you should consult a vet before using one. You don’t want it to be loose as it may come off but you also don’t want it to be too tight as it may restrict blood flow causing even more problems. Applying cream or lotions to cracked skin can sometimes help with cracked skin. You vet can recommend an appropriate cream.

Some vets may recommend a hard protective cover that can be strapped on the end of a dog’s tail to protect it.

Why does my puppy chase her tail all the time?

1 - They are playing. For dogs and puppies to chase their tails, especially puppies, it’s like babies sticking their big toe in their mouth They do it because it’s there.

2- The do it because they are itchy.

3- They do it (mostly adult dogs) because their anal glands are full. This is a medical condition that needs to be addressed