Are you worried because your dog is scratching constantly or chewing his paws until they are raw? You are not alone! I would wager that, like me, you have battled a skin problem with at least one dog in your time either as a pet owner or groomer. And more than likely, you have encountered a dog skin allergy with many puppies as well as adult dogs over the years.
I know from experience just how worrying it is to have to watch an agitated pet trying anything to get some relief, whether that be scratching, chewing or rubbing up against something.
Yes, dog allergies can be a huge problem. Nobody wants to see their beloved pet miserable with the persistent discomfort that comes from scratching and itching and biting red, irritated skin areas.
Signs of a Possible Dog Skin Allergy
Now there are a number of different types of allergies that could impact your dog’s health, not all of which show up in the skin.
For example, your dog might all of a sudden start vomiting or lose interest in food or have the runs. This could come from an allergic reaction but not always. Naturally your vet can pinpoint the actual cause and prescribe a solution.
However, in this article we are looking specifically at skin type allergies. So, if your pooch is acting strangely or has any of the following ongoing dog allergy symptoms, make sure you consult your veterinarian.
Typical signs of a skin allergy include:
- Itchy skin
- Itchy feet
- Agitated paws from biting and chewing
- Red, inflamed skin
- Incessant scratching
- Hair loss
- Skin Rashes
- Red, irritated tummy area
- etc.
Irritated dry skin on your dogs’ ears can be a telltale sign.
And of course, we have all observed dogs that skid across the room on their bottoms in an attempt to relieve itching.
Once you visit your vet, he/she will be able to confirm if your dog is suffering from some kind of allergy and then investigate a possible cause so that corrective action can be taken.
Often the type of medication prescribed can be an antihistamine for example. But there are other solutions that your vet might select in your particular case. The decision might be influenced by other medical conditions that your dog might be confronted by.
4 Causes of Dog Skin Allergies
What causes these allergic reactions in dogs? The source can be difficult to isolate but more often than not it can be traced back to one of these three categories:
1. Reaction to Certain Dog Foods
You can often detect a food allergy in a very young dog. Puppies can exhibit many of the usual symptoms if they are sensitive to a particular food group.
Certain proteins are often to blame, and some dogs can develop a reaction to food such as beef, chicken, dairy, wheat, soy, or corn. Food allergies often manifest as skin issues, including itching, redness, and inflammation.
But did you know that wiping or rubbing the face on the ground or furniture immediately after eating can also suggest a problem caused by food. Naturally this is not always the case, but a subsequent allergy diagnosis occurs often enough to warrant looking into dog food ingredients.
What to do about dog food allergies
Identifying which food is the real culprit can be very time consuming not to mention tricky, involving a process of elimination. Such a program is best outlined by a vet, naturally.
However, if you suspect a food allergy, it is a good idea to restrict your pet’s diet to commercial foods that are already labelled as being suitable for allergic-prone dogs.
2. Pollen, Dust Mites & Other Environmental Allergens
Pollen and the like come under the heading of environmental allergens leading to what is referred as atopic dermatitis in dogs.
Pollens can be inhaled. along with many other irritant types such as mite dander. Certain pollen or dander can even penetrate the skin at the peak of the allergy prone season.
This nearly always requires a visit to the vet for an appropriate medication application.
What to do about pollen allergies
If your dog is found to be allergic to pollen or airborne irritants, you can change his bedding more frequently and try to keep him away from dusty areas.
Monitor outdoor activities during high pollen seasons.
3. Flea Allergens
Adverse reactions to flea bites and other parasites nearly always lead to a form of dermatitis. Even a single flea bite can trigger an allergic reaction, leading to intense itching and discomfort. Dermatitis in dogs is a real problem that often persists much longer than it should.
The flea saliva is thought to be the culprit. This usually produces incessant dog scratching above and beyond the normal itchiness that is produced in a non-sensitive dog The latter dog usually responds to normal & regular flea treatment but the hypersensitive dog often ends up enduring the symptoms despite usual flea treatments.
If the problem persists, a severe rash can develop, followed by hair loss and even scabbing.
What to do about an allergic reaction to fleas
- Use a flea comb to see if you can detect the presence of fleas or even mites.
- Try a topical application, applied to the back of the neck where it is safe from licking.
- Try one of the better flea shampoos for dogs
- If the allergic reaction persists, do visit your vet as a more rigorous medical treatment might need to be prescribed.
Be aware that if flea chemicals result in the fleas leaving their host and your dog is predominantly an inside dog, then you could be facing some bites yourself.
4. Household Products
Some dogs can have a reaction to various products in the home. For example, cleaning products and sprays can irritate canine skin.
What to do about an allergic reaction to household products.
- If you have a yard, it is best to let your dog run around outside while you are cleaning with any sprays.
- Check labels to look for any warnings.
- If you have eliminated other possible allergens and have concluded that your dog’s reaction is coming from a household cleaning agent, then you could shop for a pet-friendly alternative (affiliate link).
Preventing Dog Skin Problems in the Future
Once you have managed to get on top of an allergy problem, you are then faced with the challenge of how to prevent it from re-occurring.
Preventing skin allergies in dogs involves a combination of proactive measures and diligent care. Here are some tips to help prevent skin allergies in your dog (affiliate links included):
- Regular Grooming: Regular grooming helps to remove dirt, debris, and potential allergens from your dog’s coat and skin. Brushing your dog frequently can also help distribute natural oils and prevent matting, which can contribute to skin irritation.
- Flea Control: Use veterinarian-recommended flea control products to prevent flea infestations and flea allergy dermatitis. Regularly check your dog for fleas and use preventive measures year-round, especially in warmer climates.
- Balanced Diet: Feed your dog a high-quality, balanced diet that is appropriate for his age, breed, and health status. If your dog has food allergies, work with your veterinarian to identify and eliminate allergenic ingredients from his diet.
- Allergen Avoidance: Identify and minimize your dog’s exposure to common allergens, such as pollen, dust mites, mold, and certain grasses or trees. Keep your home well-ventilated, wash your dog’s bedding regularly, and vacuum frequently to reduce allergen levels indoors.
- Hypoallergenic Products: Use hypoallergenic grooming products, including shampoos, conditioners, and topical treatments, specifically formulated for dogs with sensitive skin or allergies. Avoid using harsh chemicals or fragrances that may irritate your dog’s skin.
- Regular Veterinary Check-ups: Schedule regular check-ups with your veterinarian to monitor your dog’s overall health and address any skin issues promptly. Your vet can help identify potential allergens and recommend appropriate treatments or preventive measures.
- Environmental Management: Minimize your dog’s exposure to environmental allergens by avoiding areas with high pollen counts, keeping your lawn well-maintained, and limiting outdoor activities during peak allergy seasons.
By implementing these preventive measures and working closely with your veterinarian, you can help reduce the risk of skin allergies and promote your dog’s overall health and well-being.
The most common cause of itching, skin infections, and ear infections in both dogs and cats are fleas, allergies to fleas, and environmental allergies – dust mites, pollen, grasses. Both flea allergies and environmental allergies are MUCH more common in pets than food allergies but flea, environmental, and food allergies can all have similar symptoms.
You make a good point. Both flea allergies and food allergies need to be considered to find the actual cause. And in some cases it can be both. A flea allergy is normally faster to detect as quite often a food allergy requires lengthy trial and error.
Thanks for commenting.