Introduction
“Skin allergies” are the result of the immune system reacting to particular allergens in the dog’s environment or in its food. The most common cause of allergic skin reactions in dogs is being bitten by fleas. Food allergies are also quite common. Some dogs have allergies to things that they inhale from their environment (atopic allergies) or to things that they come into physical contact with (contact dermatitis).
Allergies can occur in any dog breed, 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 skin allergies.
Symptoms of Skin Allergies in Dogs
The clinical signs of skin allergies are numerous and varied. The most typical signs are extreme itchiness and scratching. Other signs include red or raw patches on the skin, ear infections, vomiting, diarrhea, weight loss, depression, eye infections or abnormal ocular discharge and weepy sores, commonly called “hot spots,” especially between the toes, in the genital area and over the base of the tail.
Treating Skin Allergies in Dogs
The 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 (pruritus) caused by allergic dermatitis. Because skin allergies frequently cause dogs to scratch vigorously and develop traumatic skin sores, there is a heightened risk of secondary bacterial or fungal infections. A veterinarian can recommend preventative and other treatment for these sores as well.
Outlook for Dogs with Skin Allergies
Dogs with skin allergies have a variable prognosis – again, 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 the condition remains frustratingly elusive. These dogs will need regular management regimens to try and control the consequences of their allergic reactions.