Home >> Dog Wellness >> Health Issues >> Allergies

Allergies

Photo by J. Nichole Smith | www.mylittleandlarge.com

Allergies are a common condition that can affect dogs of all ages and breeds. Depending on your dog’s specific allergy, problems can occur when the allergen is inhaled, ingested, or makes contact with skin. While most allergy cases are treatable and not dangerous for your dog, they can cause some severe symptoms.

What are common symptoms of dog allergies?

Persistent scratching
Ear infections
Itchy ears, eyes, or tail
Constant licking
Chewing on paws
Sneezing
Skin irritation
Stomach upset

What could my dog be allergic to?
There are many potential allergens for dogs including:

Food – food allergies are quite common in dogs, and require a specific elimination diet to figure out what foods trigger the allergies.
Pollens (tree, weed, grass)
Dust, dander, mold
Flea and tick preventatives
Fleas
Perfumes
Cleaning products

What should I do if I think my dog has allergies?

Prevent allergies by removing the allergen from your dog’s environment, if possible.
Treatments can include supplements, injections, or medications.
Contact your veterinarian to discuss treatment options.

Allergies are a common ailment that can affect dogs in many different ways. Although they are a minor issue in most cases, a dog’s allergies should not go untreated. Your veterinarian will help you find a treatment plan that is right for you and your dog.

Tags: allergies, dog allergies, dog health, health issues

JOIN THE CONVERSATION

BucFan478340

My 20 pound puggle has had tummy issues since puppyhood (she is 2 years old now). We went through 3 food changes and still issues. This spring she also started itching to the point of causing infection. My vet suggested both food and allergy testing via blood. We found out that she is allergic food wise to Turkey, Lamb (unusual), potato (in most limited ingredient foods), wheat, soy. Regionally she is allergic to two kinds of grass, two kinds of weeds, storage mites (who knew these are microscopic from putting dog food in rubbermaid), dust mites and a few others.... We are starting with the food and mite issue (storage mites were her highest issue) and if that does not cause enough improvements there is something that I think is a drop form that will build her resistance to the allergens. Allergies can be minor but they can be serious too.
VT

my dog gets these rashy red spots all over is belly and inside the rims of his ears, he chews on his paws a lot, he yelps when he touches his ears. we try to clean his ears with mite treatment but he wont let us touch his ears. now he has this large hard lump on the back of his neck. its not tender to the touch and I don't think it hurts him because he doesn't even notice that we are touching it when we do. I take him to the vet every week for the past 6 weeks but they are acting like they don't know whats going on with him. he is a 100lb blue fawn pitbull. the sweetest most cuddly babie ever. he is 5 yrs old now. I just need a 2nd opinion.
Janice

I would seek out another vet for a second opinion. It certainly sounds like it could be allergies (the lump may not be related). You can try another primary vet or look for a dermatology specialist in your area. Some require referrals, so a second opinion from a regular vet may be a first start.