Dog Skin Allergy

Common Dog Skin Allergies

Common dog dander allergies is known as as Atopica, Atopic dermatitis, Atopy and Canine Dermatitis which can be caused by airborne allergens. Pollen allergens include pollen, dust mites, trees, weeds, mould spres and people dander. Of these dust mites are the most common of dog skin allergy as they thrive in our households in areas that are warm and moist such as mattresses and furniture upholstery.

Invisible to the naked eye, dust mites feed on dead skin scales and defecate pellets of half-digested food and enzymes which contain allergens. Humans react to allergens usually by sneezing and nasal congestion. Dogs react differently.

How To Spot Dog Food Allergies

When a dog has an allergic reaction, allergies in dogs usually manifest in the form of itchy skin, ears and paws. This condition causes dogs to scratch and bite themselves constantly sometimes resulting in chunks of fur being removed exposing raw skin. If severe, the skin may become infected.

Atopic dermatitis often shows itself in the first two years. Dog skin allergy symptoms include rashes, very itchy skin, scratching constantly, rubbing the face often and/or frequently chewing on their paws

Others will have red hot to the touch ears, and/or frequent ear, bacterial and yeast infections may occur. Atopy is diagnosed using different methods, including ruling out other issues with similar signs such as lice, flea infestation or sarcoptic mange.

Atopic dermatitis often shows itself in the first two years. Dog skin allergies symptoms include rashes, very itchy skin, scratching constantly, rubbing the face often and/or frequently chewing on their paws Others will have red hot to the touch ears, and/or frequent ear, bacterial and yeast infections may occur.

Dog Skin Allergies Treatment

Atopy is diagnosed using different methods, including ruling out other issues with similar signs such as lice, flea infestation or sarcoptic mange. Dog food allergies can also cause similar skin problems and can exist concurrently or separate from allergies to airborne particles.

Sensitivity testing can also be done, allergens are injected under the skin to see whether there is a reaction to the potential allergen.

So if you notice that your dog seems to be biting or scratching itself more than usual, you should examine the dog's skin or if in doubt, bring your dog to the vet to check if it is suffering from dog skin allergies.