Treatments And Diagnoses Of Dog Skin Allergies

Allergic reactions in dogs usually manifest as digestive problems or dermatological irritation. Dog skin allergies come in various severities from patchy, scaly skin with hair falling out to slightly more than normal amounts of scratching.

A skin ailment on your dog is a clue to take him or her to the vet. Because some of these problems are related to problems that you cannot solve without medical expertise and treatment, your dog will need to be examined by a vet. A diagnosis of allergies is usually made after ruling out other problems, and then you can start home treatments (along with any your vet prescribes).

Problems with the coat or skin in dogs that have allergies do not mean that the reaction was caused by an exterior source, though it can. Allergic reactions to fleas and other pests can result in these problems, but so can many other things such as diet. Food allergies are one of the most common allergic sources of dermatological symptoms.

Usually, the general treatment for dogs with allergic symptoms is to try and remove as many allergens from their lives as possible. Then, if the problem clears up, potential allergens can be re-introduced one at a time to find out what the problem is. The process usually starts with switching the dog to a low-allergen food, because like people, many dogs have wheat and other grain allergies, and many dog foods contain these products.

Fleas should be cleaned out of the dog's environment if they are suspected as an allergen. Your vet can tell you if this is likely. Though most dogs are already fairly flea-free, additional measures can be taken if the dog seems to be allergic to them. Flea preventatives may prevent an infestation without preventing all flea bites, which can trigger allergic reactions. Treating the home may be necessary in these cases. Nonetheless, if your dog is not currently one one, he or she should be treated with a preventative to lessen the number of fleas he or she gets bitten by, especially outdoors.

Though most allergens that come from the air manifest as respiratory problems, it is worth cleaning out the home if your dog displays non-specific allergic symptoms. This means removing as much dust and air pollution as possible by vacuuming, dusting with a dust-trapping cloth or duster, and using an air purifier if you have one or are willing to get one. This will lessen any reactions to dust, mites, pollen, and other airborne allergens.

If, after treating your dog with environmental and diet changes, the symptoms still don't resolve, you vet will sometimes prescribe medication such as an antihistamine to bring the problem under control. However, at this point, another careful review of everything your dog is exposed to should be done, just in case something was missed. Removing the allergen is always the best treatment, when possible.

Dog skin allergies are similar to human conditions of the same type, and are just as painful and itchy. If your vet gives you creams, bathing instructions, or medications to treat your dog's discomfort while you are attempting to figure out what allergen is causing the problem, remember to use them regularly, as instructed. Your dog will feel much better if you do.