Dog allergy

Dog allergies are a hypersensitivity to exposure of a harmless substance. There is a wide variety of allergies dogs can suffer from. While they typically become visible through skin conditions, there are a number of other symptoms and warning signs to look for.

Dog allergies can happen just like in their human companions. These allergies usually manifest themselves as skin conditions. What this will do is provoke the immune system of the dog to overreact in the form of a number of different symptoms, most notably a skin irritation. Unfortunately, allergies are becoming more common every day just as they are with humans.

Skin irritation from allergies is fairly easy to identify. Some of the symptoms are redness, itching, hair loss and recurring skin infections from the irritation. The dog may begin to scratch himself more thus bringing on the skin problems.

When looking for symptoms, there are various things that can help to identify if the dog is suffering from allergies. Sometimes, cigar shaped mites will appear on the dog’s skin. These mites are located in the hair follicle and oil glands of the skin. While it is possible to identify what type of allergies the dog is suffering from, it is best to seek attention from a veterinarian to identify the best treatment possible.^[1]

There are a number of different kinds of dog allergies dogs may be suffering from. The five main allergies include food allergies, flea allergies, bacteria, contact, and atopy allergies.

Allergies

Food

The common symptoms of food allergies consist of skin irritation, excessive itching, hair loss, and hot spots. In addition, they can cause the dog to have loose bowel movements and even cause them to throw up from time to time.

There are a number of causes for food allergies including a built-up intolerance to beef, dairy products, chicken, corn and soy. Dog food allergies can develop over time making it all the more important to be aware of these symptoms. The easiest solution is to change to a different dry dog food and see if the skin problem clears up. If this is not the answer, a visit at the veterinarian is necessary for further assistance.^[2]

Flea

Much like food allergies, the dog will develop redness to the skin, become itchy, and may begin chewing in spots. The primary cause of dog fleas is the saliva of fleas that irritates dog’s skin. Similar to mosquitoes, fleas suck the blood out of the dog. Possible treatment is giving the dog a bath in cool water with a shampoo designed for fleas. If the dog has chewed his own skin, antibiotics will be sometimes needed, depending on the severity of the problem.^[3]

Bacteria

Bacterial allergies can be identified by red blotches, pus pockets, hair loss and skin formation that looks like ringworm. Typically, bacteria allergies are secondary to other problems the dog may have such as parasitism or hormonal disorders. It is vital to get a blood test to see what the actual problem is.^[4]

Contact

The symptoms of contact allergies are very similar to flea and bacteria allergies symptoms. The cause for contact allergies is the dog coming into contact with any kinds of allergens. Anything from the bedding, chemicals, plants, or household cleaning products can bring on contact allergies. There are several different treatment methods including using a certain kind of shampoo, a prescribed oral form of steroids, or any natural treatments like omega-3.^[5]

Atopy

Atopy allergies start with itching, biting, hair loss and face rubbing. Other symptoms may be papules, which are small red bumps, or pustules, which are small pimple-like lesions. Atopy allergies are typically caused by fleas, but can also be caused by airborne, chemical, and by many of the common products found in your home.^[6]

Notes and references

1. ^ Shawn Messonnier (July 6, 2000). The Allergy Solution for Dogs: 1-10
2. ^ Alfred J. Plechner DVM (June 1985). Pet Allergies: 18-22
3. ^ Lowell Ackerman (January 1994). Guide to Skin and Haircoat Problems in Dogs: 14
4. ^ Lowell Ackerman (January 1994). Guide to Skin and Haircoat Problems in Dogs: 20-28
5. ^ Lowell Ackerman (January 1994). Guide to Skin and Haircoat Problems in Dogs: 18
6. ^ Lowell Ackerman (January 1994). Guide to Skin and Haircoat Problems in Dogs: 8