Information on Dog Allergy Symptoms

Dogs can have allergies to airborne irritants, food and fleas. Symptoms vary widely, but most commonly manifest as skin problems and itching. Treating the symptoms won't address the underlying issue, but should provide relief for your itchy dog.

Inhalant Allergies

Common symptoms for airborne inhalant allergies are constant scratching, skin rashes and ear infections. If the dog is only affected during warm months, she may be reacting to seasonal pollen. Year-round symptoms may indicate an allergy to indoor dust and mold.

Flea Allergies

A single flea can produce intense itching in a very allergic dog. The most common symptom is biting and licking on the rump and around the base of the tail.

Food Allergies

Less common than inhalant or flea allergies, food allergies are usually a reaction to a meat or grain protein. Symptoms usually manifest as skin problems and paw-licking; vomiting, diarrhea and flatulence may also indicate food allergies.

Diagnosis

Allergies in dogs can be hard to diagnose. Work with your vet and, if necessary, a veterinary allergist to determine the cause.

Treatment

In the case of food and flea allergies, feeding hypo-allergenic food or treating the fleas is the only treatment necessary. Inhalant allergies are harder to control and treatment may include allergy shots, antihistamines and other measures to ease symptoms.

References

• Skin and Allergy Problems in Dogs
• Foster and Smith: Allergies