Dog Skin Allergies

Allergies that dogs have may look a lot different than what you see in humans. A human allergic reaction most commonly appears as sneezing, runny nose or congestion. On the other hand, allergies that dogs have cause itchy skin. As the dog continues to scratch the itch, the skin may turn raw and become infected–especially if the dog licks and chews at the affected area as well. When the skin becomes infected veterinarians refer to the condition as allergic dermititis. In the veterinary literature you may also come across a term known as pruritus which simply means, “itchiness.” While allergies that dogs have are generally genetic in nature it can take several years before the dog becomes affected.

Many owners don’t understand why veterinarians recommend a food trial to eliminate the possibility of a food allergy. They say, “Fido has been eating this food for years!” However, while the dog’s immune system may have been able to control its response to the offending allergen at one time, this reaction can change over the course of a few days, months, or years. It’s important to recognize that while allergies that dogs have may look different than what you see in humans, the treatment programs can be quite similiar.

Allergies in dogs don’t look the same as they do in humans. When people are allergic to something they get runny noses, are very congested, and sneeze a lot. In severe acute cases, anaphylactic shock can occur. However, allergies in dogs manifest themselves in a whole other way. They usually don’t develop congested sinuses and runny eyes and noses the same way people do. Instead, allergies in dogs cause itchy skin and ears. Dogs can be allergic to just about anything, including food, flea bites and inhalant particles such as pollen, dust, and mold. Believe it or not, but dogs can also be allergic to humans!

Sometimes your veterinarian can determine what kind of allergies your dog has by studying the pattern of hair loss or itchniness on the body. However, in some cases your veterinarian may refer you and your dog to a dermatologist to determine the specific cause of your dog’s allergy. Allergies in dogs related to flea bites can usually be easily treated using a high-quality flea product such as Frontline once a month for three consecutive months. The veterinarian may also give your dog a steroid injection to help ease the discomfort associated with the itching.

Dog allergies can be a very frustrating problem for dog owners who are constantly forced to watch their dog itch and scratch. It can be difficult if not impossible to “cure”your dog of his condition, just like you can’t cure someone who is allergic to peanuts or ragweed. But you can certainly prevent your dog from being exposed to the allergen that bothers him. Unfortunately, there isn’t a simple solution for allergies in dogs. You simply have to learn how to live with the genetic cards your dog has been dealt with and keep him as comfortable as possible.