Skin Allergies in Dogs

Dog Breeds

Introduction

Allergies are the result of the immune system over-reacting to particular allergens in a dog’s environment. Another term for allergies is “hypersensitivity” or hypersensitivity reactions.” Actually, the phrase “skin allergies” is somewhat of a misnomer, because the dog is not necessarily “allergic to” something in or on its skin.

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Definition of “Skin Allergies”

Allergies are the result of the immune system over-reacting to particular allergens in a dog’s environment. Another term for allergies is “hypersensitivity” or hypersensitivity reactions.” Actually, the phrase “skin allergies” is somewhat of a misnomer, because the dog is not necessarily “allergic to” something in or on its skin. A better description of what we commonly cause “skin allergies” is an overreaction by the dog’s immune system to something in its environment, which is called the allergen. Dogs can come into contact with allergens in a number of ways, including physical touching, ingestion, inhalation or otherwise. Allergies can occur in any breed of dog, of either gender and at any age. However, some breeds appear to be at a higher risk for developing allergic skin reactions, particularly those with pronounced skin folds such as the English Bulldog, Shar-Pei, Neapolitan Mastiff and Pug. Dogs living in hot, humid climates also are predisposed to developing allergic reactions that appear on their skin.

How “Skin Allergies” Affect Dogs

Most dogs with allergies are itchy regardless of the season and eventually suffer hair loss as well. Affected areas of their skin become red from scratching and biting, and they tend to develop raw, weeping wounds. Allergic skin reactions frequently show up on the face, between the toes, on the groin or flank area, behind the front legs (in the armpits) and on the ears. In severe cases, raised bumps and pustules can develop as well. Other signs of allergies can include ear infections, depression, eye infections, abnormal ocular discharge and oozing sores, commonly called “hot spots,” especially between the toes, in the genital area and over the base of the tail.

Causes of Canine “Skin Allergies”

The most common cause of allergic skin reactions in domestic dogs is being bitten by fleas, which causes intense itchiness, irritation and scratching. Allergies to one or more ingredients in a dog’s diet are also quite common causes of adverse skin reactions. Some dogs have allergies to things that they inhale (called atopic allergies) or to things that they touch (called contact dermatitis). Almost anything can cause an allergic reaction that presents on the skin, depending upon the dog’s immune system. While many people call this a “skin allergy,” it really is an allergy to the inciting environmental allergen.

Preventing Skin Allergies in Dogs

There is no real way to prevent a dog’s skin from showing signs of allergic reactions. However, once the cause of the allergy is identified, owners can prevent further allergic outbreaks by keeping their dogs away from that allergen.

Treating Skin Allergies in Dogs

Effective treatment of allergic skin reactions in dogs depends upon the cause of the condition. For example, if the dog has flea bite dermatitis (an allergy to flea salivary antigens), treatment requires eliminating the dog’s exposure to fleas. If the dog has an atopic allergy to something it inhales from its environment, that allergen must be identified and kept away from the dog. Many over-the-counter and prescription topical shampoos, lotions and other salves are available to help sooth the itchiness caused by allergic dermatitis. Because allergies frequently cause dogs to scratch vigorously and develop traumatic skin sores, they carry a heightened risk of secondary bacterial or fungal infections. A veterinarian can recommend preventative and other treatment for these sores as well.

Special Notes

Dogs with allergies that cause adverse skin reactions have a variable prognosis, depending upon the underlying cause of the condition. In many cases, the allergies will resolve with effective flea/parasite control and medicated shampoos. Food allergies can be treated using an elimination diet. Unfortunately, some dogs may continue to experience severe symptoms while the precise cause of their condition remains frustratingly elusive. These dogs will need regular management regimens to try and control the consequences of their allergic reactions.

Food Allergies in Dogs

Symptoms and Types