Introduction
Allergies in dogs are a type of immune reaction that occurs when the dog is exposed to a type of allergen. An allergen is an agent which causes a hypersensitive reaction in the dog, and as a result allergy symptoms occur. Most allergies in dogs are the result of flea or tick bite allergies, contact and inhalant allergies, and in some cases dogs are allergic to an ingredient in their food.
Symptoms of Allergies in Dogs
Signs of allergies in dogs include itching and inflamed skin, restlessness, pustules or bumps on the skin, hot spots on the skin where the skin is raw and infected, and in cases of food allergies dogs can experience vomiting and diarrhea. Secondary bacterial and yeast infections on the skin may cause additional skin wounds, increased incidences of ear infections, and a foul yeasty smell on the dog’s skin.
Diagnosing Allergies in Dogs
A diagnosis of an allergy in dogs is based upon the dog’s medical history, physical examination, blood tests, and response to treatment. In severe cases dogs may have a patch test performed on the skin to try and pinpoint what type of allergen is affecting the dog. It should also be noted that blood testing for diagnosis of food allergies is not considered to be very reliable -- the gold standard for diagnosing food allergies is to put the pet on a very restricted, novel-protein diet, for 3 months minimum.
Treating Allergies in Dogs
If the cause of the dog’s allergy is discovered, then removing the allergen from the dog’s environment will treat the allergy. If it is impossible to remove the allergen from the dog’s environment, or if the cause of the allergy cannot be discovered, then a variety of prescription medications and shampoos may be used to calm the dog’s allergic reactions and kill any yeast or bacterial infections on the skin.
Outlook for Dogs with Allergies
The prognosis for allergies in dogs is good. Most dogs recover rapidly once the source of their allergy has been eliminated from their environment. Some dogs that live in humid, hot, temperatures may need continual medications for their allergies during spring and summer months, and long term use of allergen medications may cause side effects.