Your dog may exhibit persistent or recurrent puzzling symptoms that have not responded to treatment. Like humans, dogs can have sensitivities and allergies. This possibility should be considered in such cases.
Signs and Symptoms May Include:
Skin Problems:
Allergies can cause intense itching, especially around the face, paws, ears, and belly. The dog may chew, lick, or scratch themselves excessively. Redness, inflammation, or excessive dryness may be present. Hair loss might occur in areas of excessive licking.
Skin Rash After Swimming:
Swimmers itch is caused by a reaction to a tiny parasite in pond and lake water. In humans and dogs it causes short-lived itchy skin with red spots and a rash but in dogs it can be more serious.The parasite can enter a dog's body and reproduce which can lead to vomiting and diarrhea. So if your dog exhibits any of these symptoms let your Vet know if it has been wading in shallow water in the last few days.
Ear Infections:
Recurrent ear infections, with symptoms such as redness, discharge, and a foul smell, are common in dogs with allergies, particularly those with food allergies.
Gastrointestinal Issues:
Excessively loose bowel movements, diarrhea, vomiting, and excessive gas can be signs of food allergies. While dogs may eat strange things and occasionally experience upset stomachs, persistent or frequently recurring problems are a cause for concern.
Respiratory Symptoms:
Sneezing, coughing, and red, watery eyes can occur in dogs suffering from environmental allergies, similar to hay fever in humans. Red eyes often accompany these symptoms.
Possible Causes of Allergies in Dogs
Food Ingredients:
Certain proteins, such as beef, chicken, and dairy, are among the most common food allergens for dogs. Grains like wheat and corn may also trigger allergic reactions.
Fleas:
Some dogs react badly to fleas. It is the flea saliva that causes the allergic reaction in dogs with this sensitivity.
Pollen:
Respiratory and eye symptoms often indicate allergies caused by pollen from trees, grass, and weeds, particularly in spring and autumn.
Household Chemicals:
Cleaning products, air fresheners, and certain shampoos can contain chemicals that irritate a dog’s skin or respiratory system.
Dust Mites:
Although rare, some dogs can react to dust mites in the house.
Diagnosing Allergies in Dogs
If you suspect your dog has allergies, it’s important to consult a veterinarian. Diagnosis often involves a combination of physical examination, reviewing the dog’s medical history, and conducting tests such as:
Elimination Diet:
For food allergies, an elimination diet—where the dog is fed a limited-ingredient diet—can often quickly identify the allergen.
Allergy Testing:
Skin tests or blood tests can help identify environmental allergens.
Fleas:
If flea allergies are suspected, the vet may check for flea dirt or evidence of bites in affected areas.
Treatment of Allergies in Dogs
Treatment is best managed by a veterinarian, but there are steps you can take to help minimize your dog’s exposure to allergens. Treatment options include:
Special Diets:
Dogs with food allergies may require a hypoallergenic or limited-ingredient diet. It’s best to work with a veterinarian to determine the ideal diet, but some experimentation may help identify problem foods.
Antihistamines:
Commonly used to alleviate itching and other symptoms caused by environmental allergens. They provide short-term relief, but it’s important to avoid contact with the offending allergen when possible.
Corticosteroids:
In more severe cases, corticosteroids may be prescribed to reduce inflammation and itching. However, long-term use can cause side effects and should be avoided when possible.
Desensitization:
For environmental allergies, immunotherapy (injecting small amounts of the allergen over time) can help build up a dog’s tolerance.
Flea Prevention:
For dogs with flea allergies, strict flea control using topical or oral medications is essential to prevent flare-ups.
Topical Treatments:
Medicated shampoos, sprays, and creams can help soothe irritated skin and reduce itching. However, over-reliance on these should be avoided, as they don’t address the root cause of the allergy.
Preventing Allergies in Dogs
While not all allergies can be fully prevented, you can take steps to minimize your dog’s exposure to allergens and reduce the likelihood of reactions:
Regular Flea Control:
Use flea preventatives year-round to avoid flea bites and flea allergy dermatitis.
Environmental Management:
Keep your home clean and free from dust mites, pollen, and mold by vacuuming regularly and using air purifiers. Bathe your dog regularly to remove environmental allergens from their fur and skin.
Diet Monitoring:
Avoid giving foods containing known allergens. Always read ingredient lists in treats and be cautious about food scraps you add to their bowl.
Robin Logan,
RSHom
Further Reading
Dog Allergies: A Comprehensive Guide to Dog Allergies by Dr Gordon Roberts BVSc MRCVS
The Allergy Solution for Dogs: Natural and Conventional Therapies to Ease Discomfort and Enhance Your Dog's Quality of Life by Shawn Messonnier D.V.M.