We know how distressing it can be when our beloved pets are showing signs of discomfort, but can’t tell us why.
Just like humans, dogs are also susceptible to skin allergies which can be due to numerous contributing factors.
It’s important to address this as soon as you notice the symptoms so that you can seek the appropriate treatment for your dog.
From identifying underlying causes for your dog’s skin allergies, to looking for the right treatments, we’ve created this guide to help you understand everything you need to know when it comes to caring for dogs and skin allergies.
What are the most common symptoms of skin allergies in dogs?
The symptoms of dog skin allergies can differ between the individual dog and their specific allergy, but typically your dog will display behaviours such as:
- Persistent biting or licking of the skin (particularly around the ears, face, bottom and paws)
- Excessive scratching
- Visibly sore skin that looks dry, red or flaky
- General discomfort and agitation
- Hair loss
What causes skin allergies in dogs?
There are multiple factors that can impact dogs and their skin. However, in general, the main causes of a skin allergy in dogs are from the following:
Food Allergies
Food allergies in dogs can develop at any age and are often triggered by specific types of food. Common culprits include proteins found in chicken, beef, dairy, and wheat.
To identify a food allergy, we usually recommend a diet trial. This can either be with a prescription hydrolysed diet or we use a novel protein and carbohydrate.
However, it is worth noting that food allergies are actually one of the least common causes of skin allergies in dogs. Of allergic dogs, only 10% have a food allergy.
Flea Allergies
While it’s well known that fleas can cause itching in pets, some dogs can actually be allergic to flea saliva, which can lead to intense scratching and inflamed, sore skin.
Flea Allergy Dermatitis (FAD) is one of the most common causes of skin allergies in dogs. It occurs when a flea bites and injects a small amount of saliva into the skin, triggering a severe allergic reaction that results in extreme itching.
Importantly, a dog doesn’t need to have a full flea infestation to be affected. In cases of FAD, even a single flea bite can cause discomfort that lasts for days.
Environmental Allergies
Environmental allergies in dogs are quite common in West Cumbria, especially due to the area’s abundance of wooded and grassy areas. Just like humans with hay fever, dogs can react to airborne pollen from local trees, grasses, and weeds, particularly in spring and summer when pollen levels peak.
With so many beautiful walks through forests and fields, your dog might be exposed to pollen on daily outings, whether from rolling in the grass or simply breathing it in. These allergies can cause skin irritation and other symptoms.
Along with pollen, dogs may also be sensitive to mold spores from damp woodland areas and dust mites from homes. Keeping your home clean and washing your dog’s coat after walks in the fields can help reduce exposure to these allergens and keep your dog comfortable year-round.
How do you treat dogs with skin allergies?
Treatment of your dog’s skin allergy can depend on the specific cause. However, It’s important to note that many dogs with a skin allergy are allergic to more than one thing, so there are tests that can be performed or changes we can make to eliminate exposure to allergens.
To help alleviate your dog’s symptoms, we recommend regularly doing the following:
- Vacuum and dust your house regularly to reduce the risk of dust mites and mold spore
- Use regular flea and tick treatments on your dog, as well as any other pets in your home
- Feed your dog a specialist diet for sensitive skin (please consult a vet before changing your dogs diet)
- Avoid walking your dog in areas with long grass, or when pollen count is high
- Regularly wash your dog after walks to help remove pollen, dirt or other irritants
- Use specialist shampoo to help reduce any redness or itching
We would recommend a consultation where our vets may also recommend medications to help reduce your dog’s symptoms. There are lots of anti-allergy drugs available, not one medication suits all. Some dogs develop side-effects from taking certain anti-itch medications. The medications available come in the form of a daily pill or a periodic injection depending on what our vets determine will have the best chance of success.
Relieve your dogs discomfort with The Vet Whitehaven
If your dog is showing signs of discomfort or skin irritation, it could be more than just a minor itch. Identifying and treating skin allergies in dogs early is key to keeping them happy and healthy.
Whether it’s food-related, environmental, or caused by fleas, our experienced team at The Vet Whitehaven is here to help.
Don’t let your dog suffer in silence, book an appointment with us today to get expert advice and a personalised dog skin allergy treatment plan tailored to your pet’s needs.
