Those who suffer from allergies know how debilitating they can be, but did you know that dogs suffer from allergies too? Just like humans, dogs can get allergies from dander, pollen, and plants. While these allergies may go away on their own, some dogs are allergic to certain types of food and medication, which can last for the rest of their lives.

How Do I Know If My Dog Has Allergies?

Unlike humans, dogs suffering from seasonal allergies probably won’t experience a runny nose. Their symptoms typically are shown on areas of their skin such as ears, face, abdomen, and axillae (armpits). A dog suffering from allergies may experience the following:

• excessive itching or scratching
• hives
• rashes
• swelling
• inflammation of the skin
• paw chewing
• watery eyes
• constant grooming
• ear infections
• hair loss

What Causes Them?

While pollen is a common culprit in dog allergies, there are a few other causes that our canine companions are much more susceptible to than humans.

Fleas. In addition to making your dog unbearably itchy, they can cause allergic reactions for some. You should treat all of your furry friends monthly with flea medication, which is even more imperative for those with allergies.

Food. Dogs can be allergic to many foods: beef, pork, chicken, dairy, wheat, soy, and corn are the most common allergens. You won’t have to rush your dog to the emergency room if they eat the odd scrap of beef, but it can cause severe skin infections and digestive issues if the allergy is left untreated.

Atopic dermatitis. Some dogs have this hereditary disorder, characterized by overly sensitive skin that can become irritated by non-toxic substances. This condition is particularly common in terriers, dalmatians, bulldogs, and golden retrievers.

If you suspect that your dog is experiencing any of the symptoms listed above, contact us today to schedule a check-up and have them feeling better in no time.