Dog Skin Allergies

Dog skin allergies are not uncommon. Is your dog constantly biting, scratching, and rubbing his skin? All dogs exhibit this kind of behavior occasionally; however, in some cases the behavior signals a larger problem – like skin allergies. Skin irritation is the most common signal for allergies, and allergies are becoming more prevalent in dogs as well as people. Skin allergies are just as irritating to animals as they are to people, but unfortunately they cannot vocalize what is going on. An allergy occurs when a dog is overly sensitive to an otherwise harmless substance, known as an allergen. There are many symptoms of skin allergies in dogs, as well as many causes, or allergens. Depending on the cause, treatment varies widely as well. However, if your dog is exhibiting any of the symptoms discussed, contact your vet as soon as possible. Allergies are usually very easy to treat, and you want your dog to be comfortable again.

Most pet owners know when something is wrong with their animal, so always trust your judgment. However, your veterinarian will have to make the final diagnosis as far as the source of the allergy and possible treatment plans. Take your dog to the vet if he exhibits the following symptoms: skin redness, itching, hair loss, chewing and biting the skin. Sneezing, coughing, and watering eyes, vomiting, diarrhea, hives, and rashes are symptoms of different types of allergies as well.

As you might imagine, there are a variety of causes of dog’s allergies. Allergens can include food, flea, bacteria, and a number of other environmental factors. Sometimes it is easy to find the culprit simply based on the dog’s symptoms. Dogs often suffer from food-related allergies. Common symptoms involved with food allergies include skin irritation and itching, rashes, hair loss, diarrhea, and vomiting. Often the solution is as simple as switching the brand of dog food. However, some dogs require special dog food that can only be purchased at certain stores or vet offices. If this does not work, then it is necessary to visit the veterinarian to rule out further problems and find the source of the allergy.

Fleas are also a common allergen in dogs. Symptoms include red and itchy skin, and dogs will often chew on the affected area. Sometimes a flea bath is all that is required to get rid of the problem. However, if the dog has chewed on his skin too much, he may require a round of antibiotics. In addition, you will want to make sure that the fleas are removed from your home to avoid further problems.

Other dog allergies are caused by a large number of environmental factors, like trees, grass, weed pollens, house dust and dust mites, fabrics, rubber, or plastic materials. As you might imagine, allergies like these can be difficult to pinpoint, just as they can be in people. To diagnose these allergies, veterinarians can administer a series of allergy tests. Another option is simply eliminating different substances from the pet’s environment until the symptoms improve or disappear. It should also be noted that many allergy problems are seasonal in nature, and may simply get better depending on the change in seasons.

Allergies can be treated in a number of ways, depending on the cause and the circumstances. Avoidance (of the allergen) is usually the best option, and can be accomplished in many ways. This can be accomplished by keeping the dog indoors during high pollen days. Or if your pet suffers from a dust mite allergy, then you may need to avoid stuffed toys. Running the air conditioner in your home may also help. Your veterinarian can give you specific advice on avoidance depending on your specific situation. Topical therapy includes shampoos, creams, and rinses, which often offer immediate, but short-term, relief. Fatty acids, antihistamines, and steroids are other options vets can use to treat allergies. Atopica is a brand name drug that is often used to treat dogs with allergies, especially those with more severe symptoms. This medications can be used in both long- and short-term cases.

There is a lot to learn about dog allergies, but don’t get overwhelmed. If you dog is showing signs of a dog skin allergy, like scratching and biting the skin, or even vomiting and diarrhea, make an appointment with your vet as soon as you can. Make your veterinarian aware of any new changes in your dog’s environment, and be as specific about his symptoms as you possibly can. Your vet will have a variety of strategies for you to try at home, along with possible medical intervention if necessary. Hopefully, in no time, your dog’s skin will be healed up and he will be feeling like himself again!