Skin Allergies In Dogs
Skin allergies are also referred to as allergic dermatitis, and they are the most common types of allergies in dogs. Your pup may be allergic to any number of irritants that are causing him or her to itch, scratch, and become generally uncomfortable. Fortunately, our Fayetteville vets have some insight and advice on what to do.
What Causes Skin Allergies In Dogs?
The three most common causes of skin allergies in dogs are flea allergy dermatitis, food allergies, and environmental allergies.
Flea Allergy Dermatitis
Flea’s have a saliva that will trigger an allergic reaction in some dogs. This can result in flea allergy dermatitis. This allergy can make your pooch’s skin extremely itchy, especially at the base of the tail. You may find their skin becomes red, inflamed, and scabbed. Other signs of fleas include seeing flea dirt or fleas themselves on your dog.
Food Allergies
Scratching at paws or ears, along with vomiting or diarrhea can be a sign of food allergies.
It’s important to distinguish between food allergies and food sensitivities or food intolerances. Food sensitivities are a gradual reaction to a specific ingredient such as chicken, milk, beef or wheat. Symptoms can range from itchiness and chronic infections in the ear or foot to vomiting and diarrhea. True food allergies trigger an immune response, which can cause skin conditions, such as facial swelling and hives.
Environmental Allergens
Environmental allergens consist of mold, pollen and dust. Seasonal allergies can also affect your dog during certain seasons or times of the year.
Similar to food allergies, look to your dog’s paws and ears for clues that they may be suffering from environmental allergies. Also do a quick check of the muzzle, around the eyes, wrists, underarms, ankles and between toes.
Symptoms Of Skin Allergies In Dogs
As mentioned above, skin allergies can cause a range of symptoms. These can include:
- Sores
- Hair loss
- Excessive scratching
- Excessive licking
- Rubbing of ears or face
- Biting or chewing the skin
- Rubbing or scooting on surfaces
- Red, irritated or flakey skin
When dogs experience severe skin allergies, it poses a dual challenge. Not only do they suffer from discomfort and itching due to the allergic reaction, but there is also a risk of developing secondary infections.
As your dog incessantly scratches, licks, and bites their skin in response to the itching, it creates openings for yeast and bacterial infections to invade through sores. Treating these infections may become necessary.
How To Treat Skin Allergies In Dogs
The best way to find out what’s irritating your dog’s system and causing her symptoms is to book an appointment with your Fayetteville vet. We provide comprehensive dermatological treatment for cats and dogs, including performing a range of allergy tests to determine the root cause of your pet’s skin disorder.
Following diagnosis, we can provide a custom treatment plan to help your dog heal. Treatment will depend on the cause and nature of your dog’s allergy, its location on the body, and other factors.
Treatment may include laser treatments, injectable, non-steroidal allergy medications, medicated baths and other options.
Whether your dog’s skin condition is a result of an allergy, disease or something else, we can find the cause and an effective treatment to help your pet feel more comfortable again - and get you back to cuddling.
Note: The advice provided in this post is intended for informational purposes and does not constitute medical advice regarding pets. For an accurate diagnosis of your pet's condition, please make an appointment with your vet.