Dog Allergies and Allergy Symptoms in Dogs

It is not just human beings who suffer from allergies, and you might not know that your dog can become a victim too. Itching is the commonest symptom of dog allergies, but other allergy symptoms include, sneezing, coughing, ear eyes and nasal problems, and digestive system disorders. So there is a range of ailments due to dog allergies.

Flea Allergy

Most dogs have fleas at some time, and they can cause dog allergies, of which a form of dermatitis is the most common. It is actually the saliva from the flea, which is the allergen that triggers an allergic reaction and causes the symptoms. There are some highly effective flea control preparations available. However if you treat your dog with these, check that he does not have a harmful reaction to the formulation, otherwise you would need to consult your vet, to enquire about other means of flea protection.

Airborne Allergens

Dogs can be susceptible to certain pollens, chemicals, dust mites, and the like pretty much as humans can. Of course dogs just love to sniff around, quite oblivious to dog allergies or anything else. Unfortunately, by doing so, they might be more likely to inhale pollens than humans, as they get their noses to the ground. So if your dog is sneezing and wheezing, at about the time of year when the pollen count is high, there is good reason to suspect the symptoms of dog allergies.

Pedigree or Pure Bred Dogs

Pedigree or purebred dogs seem to be more prone to inhalant dog allergies than others. Some particular breeds seem even more susceptible and include, German Shepherds, Poodles, Dalmatians, Irish Setters, Terriers, Golden Retrievers, Shih Tzu’s, and Pugs. You can usually tell if your dog has this type of dog allergies, if he is always scratching, chewing his feet, biting, or constantly licking, the symptoms are plain to see.

Atopic Dermatitis

Another of the many dog allergies is atopic dermatitis. In this case the allergens are environmental substances, such as mold and dust mites.

Young dogs, up to two years of age, are usually affected. Excessive behavior is the clue to this kind of dog allergies. So if your dog indulges in excessive licking, chewing his paws, hindquarters, or stomach, it could be a sign. Also check his ears to see if they are reddened and hot, and for abnormal signs on his abdomen, paws, and under the armpits. If you believe that anything is amiss, discuss the situation with your vet.

Food Allergy

As far as dog allergies are concerned, food allergy accounts for only about 10% of the total. However, you should be aware that dogs could become allergic to foods they have eaten, without problems, for a long time. Foods that can cause dog allergies include, beef, chicken, pork, fish, chemical preservatives, wheat, soy products, corn, milk and eggs. There are so many allergies that may affect your faithful friend. Unfortunately, he can’t explain his symptoms to you, but dog owners usually know if their pet is unwell. You know from his behavior, when things are not quite right, and it seems as though he is trying to tell you something.

If you suspect that your dog is suffering from any dog allergies, try to pinpoint the cause and if possible, eliminate it. Otherwise discuss the problem with your vet on one of your regular visits, or make a special visit if you are at all concerned about his condition.

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