Allergens can cause a reaction in the immune system and subsequently bring about skin allergies in dogs. These allergens are typically proteins that could come from other animals, insects or plants. The immune system protects the dog from diseases and infections, but when an allergen enters the animal’s body, antibodies are produced by the immune system as a protection mechanism. The antibodies will then attach themselves to immune cells that are found within the dog’s body tissues, particularly the skin. The immune cells will then release chemicals, such as histamines, into the body tissues causing inflammation and itching. Canine skin allergies are very common in all ages and breeds of dogs and in some breeds, can be an inherited trait referred to as atopy.
The Symptoms of Skin Allergies in Dogs
If you notice that your dog is itching and scratching more than usual, it is most likely a sign that your pet is suffering from dog allergies. Even though there are other health conditions that can cause itchiness, such as dog mange, lice, fleas, anxiety, liver disease and fungus, the main cause is dog allergies. Other symptoms of allergies in dogs include hair loss and skin inflammation that can lead to hot spots or open sores. Dog allergies, particularly those caused by airborne allergens such as pollen, can affect breathing causing the pet to cough, wheeze or sneeze. Vomiting and diarrhea are symptoms that are typically a result of the dog ingesting an allergen found in food.
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The Causes of Skin Allergies in Dogs
Dog allergies that typically affect the animal’s skin are usually caused by coming into contact with the allergens either through direct contact, airborne particles, from food, or most commonly, flea bites.
Flea allergy, or flea dermatitis, is caused by allergens found in the saliva of the flea. Since this is usually the culprit of a skin allergy in dogs, it is critical to have effective flea protection for your pet. For more information, check out the Flea Allergy – Dermatitis in Dogs post.
Food allergies in dogs are the second most common cause of dog allergies. Typical allergens consist of food ingredients such as wheat, milk, eggs, chicken, beef and corn. Vomiting can often be a secondary symptom of this form of dog allergy. To learn more, view the Dog Allergies to Food post.
Other typical allergens that can lead to skin allergies in dogs include pollens, mold spores, dust mites, tobacco smoke and some forms of medication. For additional information, go to our Seasonal Dog Allergies post.
How Canine Skin Allergies Are Diagnosed
A veterinarian will make an initial diagnosis based on the dog’s medical history and the symptoms the pet is displaying. If allergies are suspected, the vet will then use a process of elimination to narrow down the possible allergens that could be the cause. Flea allergies are diagnosed using blood and skin test procedures. In cases where food allergy is suspected, the dog may be put on an elimination diet to determine the food or ingredient that is causing the allergy. If the allergy is suspected to be caused by an airborne or contact allergen, the vet will mildly sedate the dog and inject trace amounts of potential allergens just below the skin. If the animal is allergic to a particular allergen, inflammation will develop at the point where the injection was made.
Treatments for Skin Allergies in Dogs
The best form of treatment is avoidance of the allergen suspected of causing the allergy. Unfortunately, this isn’t always possible, especially when the allergen is of the airborne or contact variety. Veterinarians will often prescribe antihistamines and steroids to treat the itching and skin rashes that develop. There are unwanted side-effects associated with these drugs, so only use them under direct supervision of a veterinarian.
Natural Remedies for Skin Allergies in Dogs
Due the side-effects often associated with steroids and antihistamines, many veterinarians are now recommending the use of natural remedies for skin allergies in dogs to treat the symptoms of itching and hot spots. Typically a shampoo or spray with natural ingredients is used in conjunction with a homeopathic or herbal remedy that is taken orally. These natural skin allergy remedies have been found to be just as effective as the conventional forms of treatment and can be used safely without worry of potential side-effects.
Natural Remedies for Skin Allergies in Dogs |
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