Dog allergies can happen just like in their human companions, basically an allergy is a hypersensitivity to exposure of a harmless substance. In dogs these allergies usually manifest themselves, though not always, as skin conditions.
[ad#left-336]Skin irritation from allergies is fairly easy to identify. Some of the symptoms are redness, itching, hair loss and recurring skin infections from the irritation. The dog may begin to scratch himself more thus bringing on the skin problems.
There are a number of different kinds of dog allergies dogs may be suffering from. The five main allergies include food allergies, flea allergies, bacteria, contact, and atopy allergies.
Food Allergies
The common symptoms of food allergies consist of skin irritation, excessive itching, hair loss, and hot spots. In addition, they can cause the dog to have loose bowel movements and even cause him to throw up from time to time.
There are a number of causes for dog food allergies including a built-up intolerance to beef, dairy products, chicken, corn and soy. Dog food allergies can develop over time making it all the more important to be aware of these symptoms. The easiest solution is to change to a different dry dog food and see if the skin problem clears up. If this is not the answer, a visit at the veterinarian is necessary for further assistance.
Flea Allergies
Much like food allergies, the dog will develop redness to the skin, become itchy, and may begin chewing in spots. The primary cause of dog fleas is the saliva of fleas that irritates dog’s skin. Similar to mosquitoes, fleas suck the blood out of the dog. Possible treatment is giving the dog a bath in cool water with a shampoo designed for fleas. If the dog has chewed his own skin, antibiotics will be sometimes needed, depending on the severity of the problem.
Bacteria Allergies
Bacteria allergies can be identified by red blotches, pus pockets, hair loss and skin formation that looks like ringworm. Typically, dog bacteria allergies are secondary to other problems the dog may have such as parasitism or hormonal disorders. It is vital to get a blood test to see what the actual problem is.
Contact Allergies
The symptoms of dog contact allergies are very similar to flea and bacteria allergies symptoms. The cause for contact allergies is the dog coming into contact with any kinds of allergens. Anything from the bedding, chemicals, plants, or household cleaning products can bring on contact allergies. There are several different treatment methods including using a certain kind of shampoo, a prescribed oral form of steroids, or any natural treatments like omega-3.
Atopy Allergies
Atopy allergies start with itching, biting, hair loss and face rubbing. Other symptoms may be papules, which are small red bumps, or pustules, which are small pimple-like lesions. Atopy allergies are typically caused by fleas, but can also be caused by airborne, chemical, and by many of the common products found in your home.
These are the five main types of dog allergies but as with humans if the proper precautions are taken then there is no reason for your pet to suffer unduly. As always if in doubt contact a professional
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