Symptoms of Allergies in Dogs

Dogs can suffer from allergies in a similar way that humans do. The dog could have an allergy to certain foods or to something in the air or on their skin. Removing the dog from the allergen can usually prevent allergic reactions. However, if a dog is exposed to the allergen continuously, it could result in death.

Significance

Allergies are the most common problem dogs suffer from. When a dog is exposed to an allergen, its immune system works twice as hard.

Types

Dogs can have a contact allergy (e.g. skin irritation from bedding), flea allergy, bacterial allergy (e.g. Staphylococcus), inhalant allergy (e.g. tree, grass or flower pollens), or food allergy. Food allergies usually develop after the dog has been eating the same type of food for a number of years.

Symptoms

Dogs will usually itch their skin when they are having an allergic reaction. However, in more severe cases, the dog might cough, sneeze or wheeze. You might even notice a mucus discharge near their nose or eyes. Allergies can even effect the dog's digestive system and cause him/her to vomit or have diarrhea.

Identification

Your veterinarian can perform blood and skin tests to determine if your dog has allergies. The following dogs are prone to having allergies: Beagles, Boxers, Bulldogs, Cocker Spaniels, Collies, Dalmations, Golden Retrievers, Irish Setters, Labrador Retrievers, Lhasa Apsos, Poodles, Pugs, Schnauzers, Shih Tzus and Terriers.

Prevention/Solution

Anti-inflammatory therapy involves medicating your dog with steroids and/or antihistamines to provide temporary relief from the allergen. Regularly bathing your dog with a hypoallergenic shampoo is a treatment used to clear the skin of any pollen or dust that your pet might react to. Hyposensitization is the most expensive therapy, because you have to go to your veterinarian to get weekly allergy shots for your dog.

Resources

• How to Care for a Dog Who Has Allergies