Allergies in dogs - What are the causes
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Allergies in dogs - What are the causes
What you need to know about allergies and itching
Today I'd like to talk about a topic familiar to many dog owners: allergies in dogs. Yes, our four-legged friends can also be plagued by annoying allergies. But don't worry – I'll tell you everything you need to know, from the causes and the most common symptoms to tips for alleviating the symptoms.
How do allergies develop in dogs?
Allergies in dogs are essentially hypersensitive reactions of the immune system to certain substances, called allergens. These allergens can come from the environment, such as pollen or dust, or from food, such as certain proteins. Just like in humans, our dogs' immune systems can overreact to these substances and trigger a whole range of unpleasant symptoms.
Common causes of allergies in dogs
In my experience, the most common triggers are industrial feed, worming treatments and vaccinations.
Here are some of the most common allergens that can cause allergies in dogs:
- Environmental allergens : pollen, mold, house dust mites
- Food allergens : beef, dairy products, wheat
- Contact allergens : flea bites, certain shampoos, chemicals
Symptoms of an allergy in dogs can include:
How do you know if your beloved four-legged friend is suffering from an allergy? The symptoms can be varied:
- Itching and rash : Dogs constantly scratch or bite their skin.
- Redness and inflammation : Especially on the ears, paws, belly and armpits.
- Chronic ear infections : Frequent head shaking or scratching of the ears.
- Digestive problems : diarrhea, vomiting or flatulence.
- Coughing and sneezing : Similar to cold symptoms.
Allergies in dogs: What can you do?
What to do if you have a dog allergy? Consult a veterinarian first
The most important thing is to find the cause
We recommend dry foods that contain only one protein source and one grain source. For example, chicken & sweet potato or goat & potato. Make sure your dog food contains as few ingredients as possible. Under no circumstances should it contain additives, flavorings, or preservatives.
Consult a veterinarian. The veterinarian can identify the specific allergen through various tests, such as blood tests or elimination diets.
Here are some tips that can help relieve allergy symptoms:
- Hypoallergenic food : Offer your dog a special diet that does not contain any known allergens.
- Flea control : Keep your dog flea-free, as flea bites often trigger allergies.
- Regular grooming : A clean and well-groomed coat can reduce the risk of skin problems.
- Antihistamines : In consultation with your veterinarian, antihistamines can help relieve symptoms.
- Environmental hygiene : Reduce allergens in the environment by vacuuming frequently and keeping your dog's sleeping areas clean.
Allergies in dogs can be annoying and painful for your pet, but with proper diagnosis and care, the symptoms can usually be easily managed. If you pay close attention to the signs of an allergy and respond promptly, your dog can live a happy life despite their allergies.
FAQ – Allergy in dogs: Causes, symptoms & what you need to know about itching
1. What are the most common causes of allergies in dogs?
Dogs can react allergically to many different stimuli. The most common triggers are:
- Environmental allergens such as pollen, house dust mites or mold (atopy)
- Feed ingredients , e.g. certain proteins (beef, chicken, wheat, etc.)
- Flea saliva allergy , triggered by flea bites
- Contact allergies , for example from cleaning agents, plastic or certain materials
The underlying cause can only be determined through a veterinary examination – often combined with an allergy test.
2. What symptoms indicate an allergy in dogs?
Typical signs of an allergic reaction in dogs are:
- Frequent scratching , licking , or biting , especially on paws, ears, belly, or armpits
- Redness , rashes , inflamed areas
- Recurring ear infections or unpleasant odor
- Digestive problems such as diarrhea or flatulence (in case of food allergy)
These symptoms can also have other causes. Therefore, veterinary examination is always recommended.
3. Can my dog suddenly develop an allergy?
Yes. Allergies can also first appear later in a dog's life – regardless of age or breed. An allergy occurs when the immune system overreacts to otherwise harmless substances. Even a food that has been fed for years or a familiar environmental factor can suddenly trigger symptoms.
4. How is an allergy diagnosed in dogs?
The diagnosis is usually made by the veterinarian using:
- Exclusion diagnosis (e.g. exclusion diet for food allergy)
- Blood or intracutaneous tests (e.g. to detect environmental allergies)
- Observation of symptoms and reactions to possible triggers
An early and targeted diagnosis can help provide relief to the dog and prevent subsequent illnesses.
5. What can I do if my dog is constantly itching?
If itching persists, it's important to find the cause and not just treat the symptom. Possible measures:
- Veterinary examination to detect allergies, parasites or skin diseases
- Ensure mite and flea protection
- Change of diet (e.g. exclusion diet with hypoallergenic food)
- Mild care products to soothe the skin (use only after consultation)
Important: Do not treat yourself with medication or home remedies – this can worsen or mask symptoms.
Legal notice
Note: This content is for general information purposes only. It is not a substitute for veterinary diagnosis or treatment. If you notice any health issues, you should always consult a veterinarian.
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