Allergies in dogs: we give you the keys to detecting them

Dogs, like people and other animals, can also suffer from allergies. In fact, Allergies in dogs are more common than you think —such as atopic dermatitis, flea-related allergic dermatitis, food allergies, and even allergic reactions to medications. In this article, we'll talk about the most common dog allergies, but we'll also analyze allergy symptoms in dogs and treatments. If you think your furry friend is having an allergic reaction, we recommend reading on!

Allergic reaction in dogs: most common dog allergies

Allergies appear in humans and animals when the immune system overreacts to a substanceThis causes the body to begin producing antibodies when it is not needed and to work to eliminate these substances from the body, which leads to a series of reactions. allergic reaction in dogs —whether it is a skin allergy in dogs, as well as in another part of the body— occurs in our pets regardless of the breed and usually appear more frequently during the first or second year of life —that is, when the dog is still young—. These are the most common allergies in dogs:

Atopic dermatitis or atopy in dogs

Is the most common allergy which occurs in dogs, specifically due to skin allergies in dogs - in 15% of cases. This appears due to the genetic predisposition from the pet to develop an inflammatory disease, as well as itchy skin in response to a substance present in the environment. The components that most often cause reactions are dust mites, pollen from trees, plants, fungi, and even some insects.

Flea saliva allergy

It is unknown why some breeds are more prone to flea allergies than others. However, it is known that most allergies are caused by the cat flea either Ctenocephalides felisWhat happens is that the proteins present in the flea saliva They trigger hypersensitivity in the animal, which leads to an allergic reaction in dogs. This skin allergy in dogs usually occurs within 30 minutes of the bite (type I reaction) or a delayed hypersensitivity after a few hours or even up to two days (type IV reaction). Generally, most dogs that have sporadic contact with fleas usually suffer from dermatitis.

Allergic reaction in dogs to food

It's not the most common reaction, but it also happens frequently. In this case, the pet's immune system overreacts. to a certain ingredient in the diet. Generally, the foods that cause the most allergies are those made from grains, such as corn, rice, and wheat, but allergies to beef, dairy, soy, and other foods have also been detected. These allergies can begin at any age, regardless of the breed and sex of the animal. According to several studies, the allergens in dogs are: proteins or protein compounds of a certain size. The likelihood of these appearing increases with the frequency with which they are ingested.

Allergic reaction in dogs to medications

Although they are uncommon, some medications can cause allergic reactions in dogs. These usually occur within a few minutes or hours. These reactions cause itchy skin, swelling, and redness of the face.

Dog Allergy Symptoms: What Are They?

There are three signs that clearly indicate that the dog is suffering from an allergy. These are a constant itching —when the pet won't stop scratching—, when there is gastrointestinal problems —the animal suffers from digestive disorders such as vomiting and abdominal pain— or when they appear infectionsThe latter usually occur in the area of ​​the legs and ears.

When we talk about allergy symptoms in dogs, specifically allergies to some foods, we will notice that the animal has itching on the face, ears, armpits, groin, and abdomen. Vomiting and diarrhea are also common, as well as flatulence and severe stomach pain. Now, the main symptom of all allergies is itching. If it is flea allergies, then you may notice the animal scratching the back half of its body, but also the back of its back, its rump, the base of its tail, its hind legs, and its abdomen. This can also cause the appearance of inflamed, oozing wounds. In addition, bacteria and yeast often colonize the area, intensifying the dog's itching.

If the allergic reaction is due to atopy, then the itching usually occurs on the head, legs, shoulders, abdomen, inner thigh area, and ears. On the legs, swelling often appears between the toes, as well as on the pads. The external auditory canal of the ears may also become inflamed. drug allergiesFinally, they often result in itchy, swollen skin and facial redness.

Allergies in dogs: treatment

When a dog is diagnosed with an allergy, the best course of action is to identify the cause so that the allergens can be avoided. Therefore, if the dog is allergic to fleas, then it will need to be dewormed. A prescription may also be given. antihistamines for dogs to combat itching and prevent secondary infections. In the case of food, the nutrient must be eliminated from the diet. However, if the reaction is atopic, we face a real challenge, since these allergens are practically impossible to avoid. Antihistamines for dogs will be recommended in specific cases, for example, in spring. However, if allergic reactions are very frequent, then a proceed with immunotherapyThere are allergy vaccines for dogs in which the allergens are administered at reduced concentrations. These are gradually increased to stimulate the animal's immune system and achieve tolerance to them.