Dog & Skin Allergies
When a dog has allergens, it reacts with skin problems, which include poor coat texture or length, itching and chewing, hot spots, and self-mutilation, according to K9Web. Other health problems that allergens contribute to are chronic ear infections and possibly thyroid disease.
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Food Allergy
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Dog food ingredients such as beef, dairy products, wheat, chicken, lamb and soy are the culprits of food allergies. However, according to Long Beach Animal Hospital, food allergies are the least common of the allergic skin problems in dogs.
Flea Allergy Dermatitis
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Dogs have a hypersensitive reaction to substances in the saliva of fleas. Midsummer is flea season, and dogs who live indoors could suffer year-round if not treated. Flea allergy is the most common allergy in dogs.
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Allergic Inhaled Dermatitis
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Pollens, dust mites and molds, which are common allergens for people, can also cause allergic reactions in dogs.
Symptoms
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Excessive itching is the most consistent symptom in dogs with allergic skin disease, medically known as pruritis. Other symptoms include biting, chewing, licking or rubbing the skin as a result of pruritis.
Treatment
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Hypoallergenic diets help maintain food allergies. Flea products such as Revolution, Advantage and Frontline can help control and prevent flea infestation. Dog inhaled allergies are treated similar to humans, with antihistamines and environmental control two options to consider.
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References
Resources
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