Dog Allergies

How to Tell if Your Dog Has Allergies

Are you an allergy sufferer? You probably know that when you start to sneeze, your eyes become red and itch, throat scratchy, and nose stuffy that allergy season is in full swing. However, did you know your dog can also suffer from allergies?

Many pet owners simply don’t realize that the very things that cause their own allergies can also have an impact on their dog.  In this article, we will explore how to tell if your dog has allergies. 

Types of Dog Allergies

Allergies are caused when a dog’s body over reacts to foreign substances such as tree pollen, laundry soap, or some other allergen.  A dog can suffer from either skin allergies, environmental allergies, or food allergies. Each one is unique and common. 

Skin Allergies

Skin allergies (allergic dermatitis) is one of the most common allergic reactions to occur in canines. There are three main triggers of skin allergies:

  • Food
  • Enviornmental
  • Fleas 

Flea allergies area the dog’s physical reaction to flea bites. Canines are often allergic to the insect’s saliva. A bite will cause itchy, inflamed skin. This typically happens at the base of the tail. 

Food allergies can also cause itchy skin, especially around the eas and paws. Some dogs also have gastrointestinal upset as a result of food allergies. 

Enviornmental Allergies 

Environmental allergies are caused from mold, dust, and pollen. They are typically seasoning. When a dog has an environmental allergy, they will often start to itch excessively.

Secendary Infection Risk 

All skin allergies run the risk of developing a secondary infection if the dog continues to scratch at the skin which leads to even further irritation. Wounds can open up that are susceptible to bacteria and yeast. If the skin becomes infected then the dog will require additional medical treatment. 

Food Allergies

Just like humans, a dog can also be allergic to certain kinds of foods which lead to hives, swelling, itchiness, vomiting and diarrhea. In extreme cases, the dog may even have a several reaction that is life threatening. 

Anaphylactic Response

Some dogs have an anaphylactic response to bee stings, vaccines or other allergens. Extreme swelling of the face, lips, throat, eyelids and ear flats can occur. If your canine companion appears to be having an anaphylactic response then you need to seek medical care immediately so your veterinarian can administer an antihistamine. 

Symptoms of Allergies in Dogs

The allergic symptoms your dog dvelipes will hinge on the allergen and the type of reaction.

Most dogs exhibit

  • Hives
  • Itchiness
  • Vomiting
  • Diarrhea
  • Swelling of the ears, face, eyelids, earlpas or lips
  • Ear infections
  • Runny eyes
  • Runny nose
  • Sneezing
  • Constant licking and itching 

If your dog shows any of the above signs and you suspect the animal is suffering from an allergy then you should seek medical care to determine the allergin so youc an take steps to avoid it. If you cannot keep your pet away from the offending allergen then you can discuss possible treamtent options with your veterinarian to figure out how to bring relief to your pet.

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