Allergies in dogs are quite common and can occur if your pet’s immune system overreacts to an allergen in its environment. The material that causes an allergic reaction in dogs varies from one pet to another, as not every pet is allergic to the same thing. However, we are going to look at some of the most common Food Allergies, Flea Allergies and Skin Allergies.
Common Signs of Allergies in Dogs
There are many different types of allergies in dogs and they can cause allergic reactions in several different ways. Furthermore, while some allergens cause a reaction when they are inhaled or ingested, others cause a reaction when your pet comes in contact with them. As such, symptoms can vary significantly as described below:
- Skin that is Inflamed, Itchy, Moist, Dry, Crusty, Foul-Smelling or Scabbed
- Excessive Scratching, Licking and/or Biting
- Eyes that are Runny, Pussy, Swollen and/or Itchy
- Pawing at the Ears and/or Foul-Smelling Ears
- Vomiting and/or Diarrhea
- Sneezing, Snoring and/or Runny Nose
- Thickened, Dark-Looking Patches of Skin
- Rashes, Loss of Hair and/or Dull Coat
Learn the types of allergies including Food Allergies, Flea Allergies and Skin Allergies:
Food Allergies in Dogs
Some of the most common allergies in dogs are those pertaining to food. These can also be some of the hardest allergies to remedy, as it can take some time to pinpoint the exact food item your dog cannot tolerate. However, the top foods that can create an allergic reaction in dogs are listed below:
- Beef, Chicken and Pork
- Dairy Products (Particularly Eggs)
- Wheat, Corn and Yeast
- Soybeans
It is essential to note that all dogs do not have Food Allergies, and dogs that have food allergies are not necessarily allergic to all of the items listed above. In fact, they may only be allergic to one item on the list. Symptoms of these allergies typically involve hair loss and/or gastrointestinal problems.
The best treatment for a food allergy is to slowly switch your dog to an all-natural organic pet food that does not contain any additives. Fortunately, there are many of these types of foods available today, and you can find them by asking your veterinarian or by searching online.
Flea Allergies in Dogs
Flea allergy is another common allergy in canines. Some dogs are highly allergic to the saliva of fleas and when so much as one of these parasites bites them, their skin will begin to itch intensely. Flea allergies can cause your dog to bite and scratch at itself so much that it creates open sores.
Since fleas multiply so rapidly and they can live in the environment as well as on your dog, this type of allergy can be extremely difficult to treat. Symptoms of these allergies usually involve intense itching, scratching, rashes and varying degrees of skin irritation.
Treatment of Flea Allergies involves ridding your pet, home and yard of fleas. There are many products available to help get rid of fleas including shampoos, dips, foams, sprays and powders. Keep in mind that if you have multiple pets, you will have to treat them all.
Skin Allergies in Dogs
Skin allergies are usually triggered by some form of irritant that comes in contact with your pet’s skin. This can be such things as cleaning products, human shampoos, insecticides, perfumes, rubber and plastic. If your pet happens to be allergic to one of these irritants, it will typically display various symptoms pertaining to the skin.
This includes rashes, inflammation, itchiness and/or swelling. These are some of the easiest allergies to remedy, in that pets typically show an allergic reaction almost immediately after being exposed to the irritant. As such, it is very easy to identify the cause of your pet’s allergy.
If your pet has a Skin Allergy, the best way to have it treated is to see a veterinarian. Depending on the symptoms your pet is displaying, treatment may involve antibiotic creams, anti-inflammatory drugs and/or steroids. If you follow all of these useful tips, you are sure to avoid any complications brought on by your dog’s allergies.