Signs & Symptoms of Allergies in Dogs
Like humans, dogs may develop allergies to a variety of substances. Unlike humans, dogs (cats too) exhibit an allergy more often with skin symptoms, rather than sneezing, wheezing and watery, itchy eyes. A runny nose may occur as well, but is not the main symptom to look for. In addition, some signs and symptoms of allergies can also point to the presence of other ailments.
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General Signs
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According to Cheryl Minnier, from an article on k9web.com called "Skin and Allergy Problems in Dogs," if your dog bites, licks or scratches his head or feet frequently, he may be suffering from allergies. Itchy skin in dogs is one of the most common signs of respiratory (inhalant) allergies, food allergies and flea allergies.
Biting the Back and Tail
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This is a common symptom of flea allergy. Many dogs are allergic to substances in a flea's saliva and will develop irritation around the bites. Some flea allergies can become very uncomfortable for a dog (they may even develop sores in the area) and it doesn't take many fleas to create a reaction--keeping the allergic dog completely flea-free is the only way to prevent this.
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Facial Swelling
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Occasionally dogs will develop facial swelling. This can be more alarming to the owner as sometimes swelling comes on rather suddenly. This usually occurs if the dogs has ingested something he is allergic to. It could be a new food, a plant or even a prescribed medicine. If your dog is experiencing this kind of symptom, you should contact your veterinarian --your dog may require an injection to relieve these symptoms.
Hair Loss
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Allergies may cause hair loss in dogs. This is a secondary effect of allergy-inflamed skin and a dog's constant scratching. The bald patches of skin may be dry or they may be inflamed. Some dogs develop sores called hot spots. These are open, oozing sores and easily become infected.
Pawing the Ears
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While often an indication of ear infection and ear mites, this is also a common sign of allergies--specifically food allergies and respiratory (inhalant) allergies.
Warning
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Many allergies simply cause discomfort. However, sometimes an allergic reaction can lead to a condition called anaphylaxis, which is life-threatening. Symptoms include vomiting, diarrhea, seizures. There may also be facial swelling, but this does not always occur. If you suspect your dog may be having a sudden, intense allergic reaction, you should get them to a vet immediately.
Prevention/Solution
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Once the veterinarian has established what your dog is allergic to, there are preventive measures you can take to avoid allergies, along with giving your dog the medicines. Using air purifiers, feeding a dog hypoallergenic dog food, and keeping the home clean and dry (to prevent mold) and your dog flea-free are among the changes you can make to help an allergic dog.
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