K-9 Allergies

Dogs suffer from allergies, too.

Just like people, canines or dogs can suffer from allergies to common allergens like pollen from trees and grass, as well as mold. They can also be allergic to fleas. However, dogs typically do not exhibit sneezing, watery eyes or congestion from airborne allergies. Instead, they develop skin irritation problems. Fortunately, dogs can easily be treated for these allergies. (See reference 1)

Significance

Allergies can be miserable for dogs. They often scratch their ears, paws or flank until their skin is red, thickened and greasy with a foul odor. Sometimes, they lose fur on certain parts of their body. Such symptoms can be embarrassing for the owner when their dog is out in public. (See reference 1)

Identification

Veterinary dermatolgists can test dogs for inhalant-induced skin allergies or atopy, according to peteducation.com. These tests usually entail taking a blood sample from the dog and sending it to a lab. Unfortunately, these tests are not always accurate because they were originally designed for detecting human allergies.

Treatment

Dogs with allergies can be treated with cool baths, medicated shampoos and even Epsom salts. Veterinary dermatologists may even prescribe cortisone sprays or recommend the use of witch hazel. (See reference 1)

Considerations

Dogs can develop various skin conditions from food allergies, too. Common food allergens include milk and beef products and cereals containing wheat, corn or soya. Canines may also be allergic to chicken and egg ingredients in their food, according to medi-vet.com.

Prevention/Solution

A veterinarian can usually diagnose a dog's food allergy by recommending a hypoallergenic diet or by having the owner exclude certain suspected protein sources from the canine's diet for up to 12 weeks. (See reference 2)

References

• K9web: Skin and Allergy Problems in Dogs
• Medi-vet: Canine Allergies and Symptoms
• Pet Education: Allergy Testing & Immunotherapy In Dogs