What Are the Causes of Hives on a Dachshund?

Insect stings, food and pollen may cause hives on dachshunds.

The causes of hives on dachshunds are similar to the causes of hives on other dogs and even on humans. Five factors are considered allergens, which excrete histamine and prompt hives on dachshunds.

Insect Bites

According to the online magazine "DORG," "insect stings are a common cause of hives." The insects that most likely cause hives on your dachshund are the black widow spider, brown recluse spider, bee and the wasp.

Foods

Dachshunds are allergic to several foods that humans eat. The following human foods that might cause hives or other allergic reactions are chocolate, grapes and raisins, macadamia nuts, onions or garlic, coffee or tea, alcoholic beverages, high-fat foods, xylitol, avocado, and dairy products such as milk and cheese. Buy high quality food for your pet.

Medications

Oral or injected antibiotics are commonly used on dogs such as dachshunds and may cause an allergic reaction such as hives. Other medications to watch out for are human and dog pain medications.

Pollen

Many humans are allergic to pollen, and so are many dachshunds. When pollen is trapped by fur, it can cause the skin to break out in hives.

Household Chemicals

Household chemicals can cause harmful skin allergies in dachshunds. Some of these chemicals are fabric and air fresheners, insecticides and even soaps. A change in shampoo may cause your dachshund to develop hives due to the skin adjusting to the new elements.

References

• "Dachshunds for Dummies;" Eve Adamson; 2008
• "The Complete Idiot's Guide to Dachshunds;" Liz Palika; 2003
• "DORG-The Dachshund Magazine On-Line!"

Resources

• "For the Love of Dachsies!"