Influence of dog ownership and high endotoxin on wheezing and atopy during infancy.

Background: Increased exposure to microbial products early in life may protect from development of atopic disorders in childhood. Few studies have examined the relationship of endotoxin exposure and pet ownership on atopy and wheezing during infancy.

Objective: Evaluate relationships among high endotoxin exposure, pet ownership, atopy, and wheezing in high-risk infants.