Dog Allergies

Could Your Dog Be Suffering From Allergies? Here's Some Important Information About Dog Allergies And Their Symptoms:.

Many people are unaware that dog allergies exist. Furthermore, your dog could be suffering from one or more allergies without your knowledge as some symptoms can be subtle and go un-noticed. However, symptoms vary depending on the breed and type of allergy. Read on to learn more about dog allergies and their symptoms. Many allergies in dogs are also commonly found in humans and can come from a variety of intolerances and present themselves in a variety of ways. Intolerances to food, such as wheat, will most commonly effect the digestive system. If your dog has unexplainable, frequent or recurring loose stool or vomiting, itchy skin or breathing issues it may be time to start eliminating possible food sources. As an increasingly common food intolerance in dogs is to wheat, there are now several options of wheat-free food and treats on the market. The best food for your allergic dog's digestive system will state 'hypo-allergenic' on the label. Though it may seem like a good idea to change your dogs food to a canned or pouch meat food product, be careful, most canned and pouch dog food also contains wheat so read the ingredients list carefully.

If your dog is allergic to many ingredients or one that is never removed from dog food products as a rule, you may have to make your pet home-cooked meals. You can find some specialised dog food in the large pet supply stores. As with any presenting symptom in your pet, always consult with your veterinarian before taking action as the presenting symptoms could be something more serious or may need specialised treatment. Another, perhaps, surprising allergy found in dogs is an allergic reaction to flea bites or flea-control products such as repellent shampoos and skin drops. One bite from a flea can cause severe itching for a prolonged period of time and the best treatment is prevention if the allergy is to the flea bites themselves. Always seek advice from your veterinarian on the best flea-control products and any alternatives if your pet is diagnosed with an allergy to any of them. If the more broad allergies such as to dust and dust mites, dander, cleaning products or other household and outdoor allergens is your dog's diagnosis, be sure to wash his or her bedding once a week, bathe him or her regularly and vacuum the home at least twice a week to reduce the allergens in your dog's environment.

The symptoms of an allergy can vary and may include, but are not limited to sneezing, breathing issues or snoring, itchy or red skin, small or medium size bumps or hives on the body and/or face, swelling, biting paws, increased licking and ear infections or itchy ears. Seek advice from your veterinarian on the best treatments like medicated shampoo as using the wrong product to bathe your dog can make skin issues worse. Your dog may require allergy injections or, in more severe cases, cortisone. Antihistamines such as Benadryl can ease symptoms for some dogs but be sure to seek the advice of your veterinarian before administering any treatment to your pet. Always remember your veterinarian is your best and should always be the number one source of diagnosis and treatment for any presenting symptom in your pet. This article is not intended to be a diagnosis or treatment advice and should be used for information purposes only. Article by Danielle Ellerton.