What are dogs allergic to? Some common allergens which affect dogs & cause allergy symptoms. Advice about treatment, diagnosis & precautions
Your dog will display allergic symptoms if its immune system becomes overactive. Even though the dog’s immune system is meant to protect them, but allergic reactions occur when their immune system considers allergens as threats.
These allergens may be substances which are harmless to other pets and humans, but in the case of your dog, there may be an allergic reaction.
What are the dog allergy symptoms?
a) Itching and increased scratching
Read: How to relief pain of dog itchy skin all over?
b) Ear infections
Read: Best 15 Home Remedies for Dog Ear Infection Without Vet
c) Diarrhea
Read: What to feed a dog with diarrhea? Causes & Treatment
d) Constant licking
e) Vomiting
f) Sneezing
Read: My Dog Won t Stop Sneezing? Causes & Treatment
g) Runny eyes
Dogs who get an allergic reaction may suffer from yeast infections which can cause crusts and scabs on their skin and loss of hair.
What are common allergens which affect dogs?
Some common allergens are:
a) Pollen, grass or plants
b) Mold
c) Fleas
d) Dust
e) Feathers
f) Certain types of food
g) Certain medication
h) Perfumes and deodorants
i) Cleaning products
How can a dog allergy be diagnosed?
If your dog displays any of the above symptoms, you should consult your veterinarian immediately. He will carry out a complete physical examination. He may also prescribe skin tests or blood tests to diagnose whether your dog is actually allergic. The skin tests for allergy will be carried out by a veterinary dermatologist.
How should you treat dog allergies?
To treat dog allergies, you should first try removing any allergens in your dog’s environment. If your dog has a flea allergy, then your veterinarian will suggest a flea control product. If your dog has a dust allergy, then you should clean your house thoroughly.
Give particular attention to cleaning your dog’s bed and vacuum your house twice or thrice a day. Clean your furniture, rugs, and carpets regularly. Giving your dog a weekly bath helps to remove any allergens in the environment and relieve itching. Get advice from your veterinarian about appropriate shampoos to use. In the case of a food allergy, your veterinarian may suggest home-cooked food or a particular type of dog food.
What sort of allergy medication should you use?
Your veterinarian may prescribe certain allergy medication to help with controlling the allergic reaction. Some examples are:
– Allergy injections which will help your dog develop resistant to the allergen causing it trouble
– Antihistamines
– Steroids
– Allergy vaccines
– Immune system modulating drugs
– Flea prevention products
– A fatty acid supplement to help in reducing itching.
– Sprays having aloe, oatmeal and similar natural products
Precautions to take if your dog develops allergies:
– Keep a distance:
Don’t pet, touch or kiss your dog. Make sure that you don’t let your dog climb your bed
– Clean your house regularly:
Dog dander has a tendency to get everywhere. Sweep and mop your floors. Vacuum rugs and curtains. Clean your furniture on a regular basis.
– Use an air filter:
Central heating and air conditioning can help in transmission of dog dander throughout your house. Get an air filter to help you maintain clean air.
An allergy can be traumatic for your dog and your family as well. If you suspect that your dog has developed an allergy, do not hesitate and contact your veterinarian as soon as possible. Follow our tips above to help you recognize and treat your dog’s allergy.
