Dog Allergies Detection 101

September 16, 2021

Dogs experience allergic reactions to various things. While these allergies are typically not life-threatening, they do cause a measure of discomfort. 

Allergies in pups are not quite as simple to pinpoint as in humans. It takes strong observation skills, and even afterward, there is a range of allergies that could cause your dog’s symptoms. 

Common Symptoms of Allergies 

Here are some of the commonly noticed allergy symptoms in pips: 

• Constant licking
• Diarrhea
• Sneezing/ wheezing 
• Inflamed skin
• Incessant scratching 
• Swellings of lips, ear flaps, or other parts of the face
• Periodic chewing on body parts 
• Hives 
• Fur loss/ skin irritation 

Allergies mostly develop when your pup nears his second year. In the first year, your pup might be exposed to these antigens. However, in the second year, his immune system starts to release immune cells which in turn release inflammatory substances. 

New symptoms typically arise for a variety of factors including changes in diet, environment, or aging. The symptoms associated with allergies are not distinct, hence, a veterinary appointment is advisable. 

Testing for Allergies in Your Pup 

To accurately ascertain that the symptoms are not a result of another condition, the veterinarian first rules out possible conditions. Afterward, he or she may opt for allergy testing to detect the allergen. 

For food allergies, an elimination method is used for diagnosis. The food trial typically involves feeding your pup with a novel source of carbohydrates and protein for 12 weeks. 

For skin irritation or dermatitis caused by suspected flea allergy, this is pretty easy to detect. The usual process is applying a product to kill the fleas. If scratching stops, then treatment is successful. 

Note that allergy testing may not always be able to pinpoint the cause of the reaction. 

Treating Allergies In Pups 

The ultimate treatment for an allergy is total avoidance of the allergen. This is usually possible in certain scenarios, but not likely in others. 

Treatment usually follows the precise allergy that your pup has. For instance, a food allergy can be treated by changing diet and eliminating allergens. 

For flea allergy dermatitis, applying a product to kill the fleas is your best call. Lifestyle changes may also be recommended by the veterinarian. 

Furthermore, the veterinarian may also recommend the administration of allergy relief medication. This would typically help to ease reactions like itching as well as other resulting skin infections that may have been caused by the irritant. 

Dealing With Severe Reactions 

If your pup experiences a severe allergic reaction featuring an advanced level of any of the symptoms outlined above, the right call is to get him to the veterinary hospital without delay. 

To notice any changes in your pup’s behavior or reactions, you would have to keep a close eye out. A slight change in mood or appetite is worth noting. 

Finally, before taking your pet on a trip or a new location, ensure that allergens are not present in the vicinity.