Pollen from grasses, weeds and trees is a well-known cause of the collar jangles in dogs with allergies. But there are many other sources of dog allergens, including some found in and around your home. If your dog has a case of the itchy-scratchies, check out these common allergies in dogs.
Allergies from Fleas, Bees, Bites and Mites
Fleas are irritating pests for all dogs, but some dogs are also allergic to fleas. Flea allergy dermatitis is one of the most common skin conditions in dogs and is caused by exposure to allergens in flea saliva. Just one flea bite can cause an allergic reaction in genetically predisposed dogs. However, flea allergy dermatitis can easily be prevented by eliminating fleas from your dog and their environment (e.g., bedding, couch, other pets).
Bees, wasps or other stinging insects can cause allergic reactions in some dogs. Just like in people, some pets are more sensitive to insect stings than others. Rarely, a sting from one of these insects can result in anaphylactic shock, which can be fatal if it’s not treated. Dogs can also develop hives or facial swelling (e.g., lips, eyelids, ear flaps), which is serious but not usually fatal. Hives and swelling can be treated with an antihistamine injection by your veterinarian.
House dust mites can cause allergy symptoms in dogs — and people. As the name suggests, they live in dust and feed off organic matter like the dead skin cells we shed. These microscopic relatives of ticks and chiggers don’t actually bite; it’s the protein from their feces and dead dust mites that cause the allergic reaction. It’s another good reason to keep your house dusted and your dog’s bedding clean!
Environmental Allergies in Dogs
The most common environmental allergens include pollen from grasses, weeds and trees; mold spores and house dust. Depending on the allergen, some dogs may experience seasonal allergies while others suffer year-round.
Plain old dust (without the mites) can be an allergen source, as can mold spores. A mold source that might not be obvious in homes is the potting mix in indoor plants. These indoor plants could also be the source of a second allergen if they have pollen-releasing flowers.
Another airborne allergen is smoke. Any type of smoke, whether it’s from tobacco, cooking (or burning) dinner or a fireplace, can cause an allergic reaction. Smoke can irritate a dog’s skin, potentially causing allergic dermatitis. It can also affect their respiratory system, leading to coughing, wheezing or chronic bronchitis.
Other environmental allergies may be related to items your dog comes in contact with, either directly or indirectly. This could include laundry detergent, some fabrics (like wool), cleaning products and certain chemicals (often associated with fragrances). Switching to all-natural, fragrance-free versions of detergents or cleaning products may help.
Most Common Food Allergies for Dogs
In dogs, food allergies are one of the most frequently discussed allergies. However, true food allergies that involve activation of the dog’s immune system are not as common as you might think. In most cases, the reaction to a particular food is an intolerance, not an allergy.
When it is a food allergy, typically it’s the protein ingredients in the food that trigger the allergic response. The most common culprits are beef, dairy, chicken and wheat, but over time, dogs can develop allergies to any source of protein they are repeatedly exposed to. If your veterinarian suspects an adverse reaction to food, an elimination diet trial can help diagnose food allergies and food intolerances.
Dog Allergy Symptoms
One of the most common symptoms of environmental allergies in dogs is itchy skin and ears, a condition called allergic dermatitis. They will scratch, lick, chew, scoot or rub — basically trying anything and everything — to get rid of the itch. This can cause damage to the dog’s skin, which leads to sores, scabs, hair loss and possibly secondary skin infections (fungal or bacterial infections) or chronic ear infections.
Allergies can also be an underlying cause of pododermatitis, or inflammation of the skin of the paw. Pododermatitis can occur on any area of the paw, and one or more paws may be involved, but the front paws tend to be more commonly affected. Dogs with itchy paws often lick or chew them excessively, which can lead to secondary bacterial or yeast infections.
Treatment of Allergies in Dogs
If you suspect your dog is allergic to something, your veterinarian may suggest allergy testing to help determine which allergen is the cause of the symptoms. They will recommend the most appropriate treatment for the allergy (or allergies, as dogs can often have more than one). Additionally, it is essential to address secondary infections that may arise as a result of the allergy. Treatment options for dog allergies typically include allergy shots, medications and topical products, nutritional support and strategies to reduce exposure to the allergen.
A Sensitive-Skin Diet May Help Dog Allergies
Itchy skin from environmental allergies may be reduced for some dogs (but not all) by feeding a diet that supports healthy skin and an optimally functioning immune system. Sensitive-skin diets are often formulated with a limited number (one or two) of sources of protein and an appropriate ratio of omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids. Limiting the protein sources can lower your dog’s overall exposure to potential allergens and decrease stress on the immune system. Controlling the quantity and ratio of omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids provides the essential fatty acids needed by your dog’s skin and immune system while helping to reduce the effects of the substances responsible for itching. Be sure to talk with your veterinarian first before making any diet changes.
The list of potential allergens for dogs is long, and diagnosing allergies in dogs can take some sleuthing to work out what it is your dog is reacting to. Through allergy testing and a process of elimination, your veterinarian can help you uncover the source of your dog’s symptoms, confirm whether an allergy is the culprit, and recommend appropriate management strategies.
