Allergies in Canines
Much like people, dogs can have sensitivities or allergies to different substances they encounter day to day. Ranging from foods, to pollen and dust, to medicines or metals, a canine can experience a range of allergic reactions. Symptoms are usually mild, but in cases of extreme sensitivities, veterinarian intervention and medication may be necessary. Dogs usually develop allergies early in their lifetime, typically between 1 and 3 years old. Some may develop sensitivities until 6 to 8 years old, although this is not common.
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Food Allergies
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Food sensitivities are common in dogs. Some dogs may be intolerant of certain foods, meaning they cannot properly digest them, and may exhibit symptoms like diarrhea and vomiting. However, an intolerance is not the same thing as an allergy. An allergy to a food means that antibodies are created when the dog eats the food, and an allergic immune reaction occurs. An allergy will usually manifest with a skin irritation, like flaky or itchy skin. The most common food allergies in dogs include wheat, beef, dairy, chicken, lamb, fish, eggs, and corn ingredients. The best treatment for a food allergy is to remove the allergen from the dog's diet.
Atopy (Inhalant) Allergies
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Like people, dogs can be sensitive to particles they breathe into their lungs. Chemical irritants like cigarette smoke, household cleaning products or air fresheners are examples of man-made inhalants that often cause allergic reactions. Natural particles like pollen, dust or molds cause allergies in dogs, with symptoms like itchy, watery eyes, coughing and sneezing. Allergies can be conclusively diagnosed by a blood or skin based allergy test. They are often diagnosed by simply removing the suspected allergen from the dog's environment. If a canine is allergic to a particle that cannot be avoided, like dust or pollen, medication can be used to alleviate symptoms.
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Topical Allergies
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Dogs can also be allergic to topical substances. These allergens can range from a topical medication or shampoo (like a flea treatment), to materials like wool, plastic or metals. Symptoms usually manifest in the area that the substance came into contact with the dog, and can range from itchy, irritated skin to skin cracking, blisters and lesions. Avoidance is typically the best treatment for this type of allergy.
Genetic Factors
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Certain dog breeds are more likely to experience allergies than others. Terrier breeds like the Scottish, West Highland White, Cairn, and Wire Haired Fox are genetically predisposed to a degree to have allergies. Other breeds, including the Lhasa Apso, English and Irish Setters, Retrievers, Dalmatians, Pugs, Miniature Schnauzers and English Bulldogs also have a higher occurrence of allergies compared to other breeds.
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References
- Photo Credit dog image by Ramona smiers from Fotolia.com
