If you’re a dog owner, then you know that your furry friend is part of the family. And just like any other family member, you want to do everything you can to keep them happy and healthy. But what happens when your dog has allergies? Just like humans, dogs can suffer from allergies to pollen, dust, dander, and even certain foods.
If your dog is sneezing, itching, or otherwise showing signs of discomfort, they may be dealing with allergies. In this blog post, we will explore the causes and symptoms of allergies in dogs as well as some treatment options. From over-the-counter medications to home remedies, there are plenty of ways to help your furry friend feel better.
What Are Common Allergies In Dogs?
There are a number of common allergies that your dog could suffer from. The most common food allergies in dogs are to beef, dairy, wheat, and chicken. However, your dog could be allergic to any type of food.
Environmental allergies, also called atopy, are another common allergy in dogs. These can be caused by pollen, mold, dust mites, and other outdoor irritants. Dogs with environmental allergies may have itchiness, redness, and swelling around the eyes, ears, muzzle, and paws. They may also suffer from chronic ear infections.
Treating your dog’s allergies will depend on what is causing them. If you suspect that your dog has a food allergy, talk to your veterinarian about changing their diet. For environmental allergies, your veterinarian may recommend allergy shots or other medications to help relieve your dog’s symptoms.
What Are The Symptoms Of Allergies In Dogs?
Most dogs with allergies will itch. They may also have red, inflamed skin that is dry and flaky. Some dogs will have recurrent ear infections. Others will develop hot spots. Some dogs will have vomiting and diarrhea.
Dogs with allergies may also have difficulty breathing. This can be due to inflammation of the airways or swelling of the throat. In severe cases, anaphylactic shock can occur. Allergies can also cause behavior changes in dogs. Dogs may become agitated and restless. They may also have difficulty sleeping.
Dogs with allergies may have a variety of symptoms, including:
-Itching and scratching
-Hives or welts
-Swelling of the face, ears, or paws
-Bald spots or excessive shedding
-Red, irritated eyes
-Runny nose or sneezing
If your dog is displaying any of these symptoms, it’s important to consult with your veterinarian to determine whether allergies are the cause. If so, they can recommend the best course of treatment to help relieve your dog’s discomfort and get them back to feeling its best.
How Can You Treat Allergies In Dogs?
If your dog is dealing with allergies, there are a few things you can do to help. First, try to identify the allergy trigger and remove it from your dog’s environment. If that’s not possible, ask your vet about prescription-strength antihistamines or other medications. You might also need to change your dog’s food to a hypoallergenic diet.
In severe cases, dogs with allergies may need to receive regular injections of immunotherapy. This treatment helps the dog’s immune system build up a tolerance to the allergen over time. With proper treatment, most dogs with allergies can enjoy a good quality of life.
When Should You See A Vet For Allergies In Dogs?
If you think your dog may have allergies, it’s important to schedule a visit with your veterinarian. They will be able to help you determine if your dog does in fact have allergies and, if so, what may be causing them.
Your vet may recommend skin or blood tests to pinpoint which allergens are triggering your dog’s reactions. Once the cause of the allergies is determined, your vet can work with you to develop a treatment plan. This may include allergen-specific immunotherapy, antihistamines, fatty acid supplements, or other medications.
In some cases, simply avoiding contact with the allergen is the best way to manage your dog’s allergies.
If your dog is scratching more than usual, has red or inflamed skin, is losing hair, or has any other unusual symptoms, it’s time to see a vet. Allergies can be difficult to diagnose, so it’s important to consult with a professional who can help you figure out the best course of action.
Conclusion
Dogs with allergies can be a real pain to deal with, but thankfully there are ways to treat those allergies. If you think your dog might have allergies, the first step is to talk to your vet. They will be able to help you figure out what’s causing the allergies and how to best treat them.
In the meantime, there are some things you can do at home to make your dog more comfortable, like using an air purifier and keeping their bedding clean. With a little patience and care, you can help your furry friend feel better in no time.