Allergies in dogs

Overview

The trees are showing off their fall foliage, and your dog is exhibiting a runny nose and drippy eyes. Perhaps he starts sneezing whenever you start dusting, or seems to have a scratching attack every time you give him a flea bath. Like many companion animals, your pet is suffering from allergies.

The foreign molecules that cause these allergic reactions in your pet are harmless to most individuals, but some animals' immune systems perceive these substances as dangerous-and thus go into overdrive trying to rid the body of them.

Any dog can develop allergies at any time during their life, but the condition tends to be more prevalent in terriers, setters, retrievers, and flat-faced breeds such as Pugs, Bulldogs and Boston Terriers.

Symptoms

• Itchy skin
• Sneezing
• Ear infection
• Vomiting
• Diarrhea
• Snoring (brought on by an inflamed throat)
• Runny eyes
• Hairloss
• Excessive chewing and licking at the paws
• Red skin
• Recurrent skin infections
• Chronic ear infections

Prevention

The most effective treatment is to eliminate the offending substances from the environment. For example, if your pet is allergic to fleas, be sure to start an effective flea control program months before the season starts or give flea products year round if you live in a hot, humid climate. Dogs with flea allergies are severely affected by one flea bite and can continue itching for 7-10 days.  If dust is the culprit in your house, wash your pet's bedding once weekly and vacuum at least twice a week.  Dust regularly.  Experts recommend that you clean drapes and rugs regularly, as well.  If your dog is allergic to seasonal pollen, it may be impossible to keep him from encountering the allergens.  Bathe your dog once a week during his allergy season to help wash away the offending pollen.  If your dog chews his feet excessively, try wiping his feet with baby wipes or a wet hand towel when he comes in from being outside to prevent additional reactions. 

Treatment

The key to treating allergies is to determine the cause. Many substances, either inhaled, ingested, or applied to the skin can cause a reaction. These substances include trees, mold, grasses, fleas, prescription drugs, fabrics, food and insecticidal shampoo. If you are not sure what's causing your dog's irritation, your veterinarian may recommend skin tests or blood tests to help determine your pet's sensitivity to a number of common allergens. Severe seasonal allergies may need the intervention of a veterinary dermatologist for allergy testing and allergy shots. 

If you are not able to remove the substance from the environment like an airborne pollen, for example, cortisone or steroids may help to control the allergy. These drugs are strong and should be used with caution and under the supervision of a veterinarian.  These substances can be given orally or placed directly on affected areas. 

Your veterinarian may also recommend antihistamines, but these work best when given to your dog before he comes into contact with the allergen. Fatty acid supplements may offer relief for chronic itchers when given on a daily basis. Allergy shots, although costly, can help pets with severe sensitivities. The animal will receive a series of shots, gradually decreasing the frequency until they are given only for maintenance. Your veterinarian can help you decide what's best for your dog.

If you suspect that your dog is affected by a different kind of allergy, commonly referred to as a food allergy, talk to your veterinarian about how your dog can be treated.