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Humans aren’t the only ones who can suffer from allergies. Just like us, many animals also have allergies. Looking after a dog with allergies turns into a whole different ball game. They can be allergic to foods, products, or even suffer from seasonal allergies. There are some breeds that are more susceptible to allergies than others and, therefore, you need to be more alert when looking for symptoms of allergies.
Dogs can develop an allergy at any stage in their life and the severity of their allergies can range from very mild to severe. As dogs cannot speak for themselves, it is incredibly important that we know how to spot an allergic reaction and what we can do to ensure they are happy and healthy. We have compiled a guide on looking after a dog with allergies.
Common symptoms seen in dogs with allergies
Many allergy symptoms for dogs are the same as those of humans. Unfortunately, unlike humans, dogs cannot tell us they don’t feel right. Therefore, it is important that you know what to look for when they are not feeling right. Many dog lover will see when something is unusual with their pet, and knowing what signs to look for can help you to understand whether it could be an allergy or something else. Allergy symptoms for a dog may vary depending on how they have come into contact with the allergen.
Because you may have not seen what your dog came into contact with, it can be incredibly difficult to know what is causing his allergic reaction. If your dog has eaten something that has caused a reaction, you may see wheezing, coughing, or a rash on their skin. Â Your pet may also wheeze, sneeze, or rub their face with their paws if your pet has inhaled an allergen. If an allergen has touched their skin, you may notice excessive licking or a reddish discoloration. While all these symptoms can occur during any form of exposure, it may help identify how they have suffered from an allergic reaction.
It can be difficult to judge what is the true underlying cause of these symptoms because they are also common for other health conditions. If your dog has any of these symptoms and it is affecting them, visit your vet so they can do a full diagnosis of your pet. During a severe allergic reaction, your pet may become lethargic and find it difficult to breathe. If this is the case, it is an emergency and you need to get your dog to the nearest vet.
Dogs can have seasonal allergies
Seasonal allergies, including hay fever, can be found in some dogs. Your dog may be allergic to certain chemicals you are using in your home, as well as pollen, or certain species of plants. If they tend to develop symptoms at a certain point in the year, it is more likely a seasonal allergy. If you notice symptoms when you take your dog on a walk to a certain spot, it may be pollen or a plant that is causing an allergy. Keep an eye on when and where symptoms occur.
If your vet thinks your dog has a seasonal allergy, they will provide you with advice and medication your dog may need. For dogs with seasonal allergies, vets usually try to take a preventative approach.Â
Dogs can have a skin allergy
The easiest way to tell if your dog is suffering from a skin allergy is if they are constantly itching. Dogs scratch for many reasons, including when they are anxious or stressed. If your dog has no reason for this and is in a happy home, it could most likely be a skin allergy. If you notice them itching a lot, check their skin for signs of fleas or mites. You can treat your dog with them a flea treatment, which can be bought from your vet or major pet retailers. Â
After a vet diagnoses your dog with a skin allergy, you need to try to find out what is causing it. Dogs can be allergic to many things, including the detergent you wash their blankets in and what soap you use in their bath. It’s best to use hypoallergenic products for your pets. You should also begin to keep a diary of when your dog becomes irritated, so you can narrow down what may be causing the allergy.
Dogs can have a food allergy
Some dogs can suffer from food allergies. This may be hard to determine. As with skin allergies, monitor what your dog is eating as closely as possible. Vomiting, diarrhea, breathing issues, and itchy skin are all signs of food allergies. Your dog may have eaten the same food their entire life and only just now started showing allergy symptoms. Allergies can show up at any time no matter the age of your pet. If your vet believes your dog has a food allergy, it is time to switch up their food.
You can find a supply of grain free dog food from Fish4Dogs which has a range of benefits including being superb for dogs with sensitivities or allergies. Many dogs can be intolerant to the wheat in the grains used in most dog foods. Getting rid of these grains for your dog could be the best way to treat their allergy. Feeding fish to your dog also has many benefits. It is gentle on your pet’s stomach and aids in coat and skin development.
Dog breeds such as Retrievers and Boxers are more prone to allergies. Caring for a dog with an allergy can be worrisome, but attempting to solve what is causing their symptoms is the ultimate goal. Keep a diary and a look out for when your dog begins to show symptoms. Always seek out a vet for advice on your pet’s health.
