What does a mild dog allergy look like

7 Dog Allergy Symptoms to Look For

Allergies are common in dogs. About 1-2% of all dogs have a food allergy, and as many as 25% of dogs with skin problems have a food allergy.

When you throw in dogs with inhalant or environmental allergens (like pollen or mold) and flea allergies, youre looking at a sizeable portion of the canine population thats suffering from allergies.

How can you tell if your dog has allergies?

Many diseases can cause the same symptoms as allergies in dogs, so it will be up to your veterinarian to determine for sure whether allergies are to blame, and if possible, the cause of those allergies.

Look for these signs and go to the vet to confirm whether your dog does, in fact, have allergies.

Your Dog Never Stops Scratching

One of the most common symptoms of allergies in dogs that pet parents notice is itchy skin.

The severity of the itchiness can vary from quite mild, in which case the skin and haircoat look mostly normal, all the way to nonstop scratching.

In the more severe cases, hair may be missing, and the underlying skin can appear to be red, raw, and inflamed.

Classically, the epicenters of itch include:

Importantly, itchiness of the lower back, specifically near the base of the tail, is a hallmark sign of flea allergies.

Over time, these areas may become hyperpigmented, or dark in color. The skin may become quite odorous and can take on a notably different texture.

Your Dogs Feet Smell Like Corn Chips and They Wont Stop Licking Them

While most humans think that the corn chip smell is normal for a dogs feet, its actually a sign of bacteria. If your dog is also licking their feet, its not because theyre cleaningtheir feet are itchy.

If your dogs hair is a light color, you may notice fur staining of the feet, a symptom in which the fur takes on a dark red, coppery color due to the dogs saliva.

The classic corn chip odor of the feet, which many people believe to be completely normal in dogs, is caused by skin infections, either from bacteria (usually Staph) or fungi (usually yeast). So how is this symptom related to allergies?

The inflammation associated with skin allergies breaks down the normal skin barrier over time. As a result, opportunistic microbes like yeast and bacteria can go from resting peacefully on the surface to diving deeper, where they set up infections and cause problems.

Addressing these secondary infections will be one of the first steps that your veterinarian will want to take in treating your allergic dog.

Your Dog Has Chronic Ear Infections

Relatedly, many dogs with allergies will experience ear infections that recur frequently or never seem to fully go away. As with the feet, this problem is often caused first by the allergies.

The allergies break down the healthy skin barrier, then opportunistic bacteria or yeast create an infection, which all further contributes to the itch (although ear infections unrelated to allergies are common as well).

Dogs that have gone years with allergies that are either undiagnosed or undertreated will often have ears that are raw, smelly and thickened.

In severe cases, ear infections may become so resistant to treatment that surgery to remove the ear canal may be required. To avoid this situation, it is important to have your dog examined by your veterinarian as soon as you suspect that your dog may have allergies or ear infections.

You Notice Recurring Hot Spots

Formally known as pyotraumatic dermatitis, hot spots are common in dogs, especially in breeds like Goldens, Labs, and Saint Bernards.

Like ear infections, hot spots can arise on their own, or they can be secondary to underlying allergies. If you feel like youre always treating a new hot spot on your dog, talk to your veterinarian about allergies.

Your Dog Suffers From Chronic Diarrhea and Related Symptoms

You might think that the skin is the area thats most commonly affected by allergies in dogs, but the gastrointestinal (GI) tract is just as likely to suffer when a dogs allergies are poorly controlled.

GI-related allergy symptoms include:

Your Dog Has Red Eyes

Its less common for dog allergies to manifest in their eyes, but it is possible.

When certain parts of the eye become red and inflamed, especially if both eyes are affected, an allergy may be at play. The term for this condition is allergic conjunctivitis.

The redness may be accompanied by squinting or pawing at the face.

Your Dog Is Coughing

A nonproductive cough that worsens during exercise may be yet another sign of allergies. Known as allergic bronchitis, this condition is more common and more severe in cats, but it is a possibility in a dog with allergies.

Talk With Your Veterinarian

As always, talk to your veterinarian if you suspect that your dog may have allergies. They may perform tests to rule out more common or more serious diseases that can cause similar symptoms.

To decide whether allergies are likely the culprit, your veterinarian will also take into account:

• The age of onset (environmental allergies typically show up in a dogs first three years of life, whereas food allergies are seen in dogs 5-7 years old)

• Your dogs breed

• The seasonality of the symptoms

• Previous and current diets

Featured Image: iStock.com/Przemysaw Iciak

Pet Allergy

How common are allergies to pets?

Cat and dog allergy is common, especially in people who also have allergic asthma or hay fever. It is also possible to be allergic to other types of animals including those with hair (fur), feathers or even scales, including:

• Rabbits
• Rodents such as guinea pigs, mice and hamsters
• Birds
• Horses
• Reptiles, such as iguanas
• In addition allergy to pet bedding (straw, shredded paper, moulds ) is a possibility

What causes pet allergy?

Pet allergy is caused by the protein in a pets saliva, urine or dander (shed skin particles). Cats and dogs produce multiple proteins with the potential to cause a pet allergy. It is commonly thought that the hair causes symptoms, however it is the pets dander that is mainly responsible. This is spread when pets shed their hair or feathers or groom themselves. Cat allergen is found on the skin and fur and is due to their sebaceous and salivary glands: when a cat licks itself the allergen is transferred onto the hair. Dog allergen is found mainly in the hair, dander and saliva. The main source of allergen for rodents, such as mice, is in their urine.

Allergic signs and symptoms are seen in people whose immune system mistakenly recognises pet dander, saliva, or urine, as a harmful substance (allergen) and, as a result, produces IgE antibodies as a defence mechanism. On further exposure to that pet allergen, allergic signs and symptoms may be seen as an allergic reaction.

Pet hair itself can also act as a carrier of other airborne allergens: pollen, house dust mite and mould, which can cause allergic symptoms in individuals with hay fever, asthma, or eczema. Pet dander alone can also be an allergic trigger in these allergic conditions. Having a cat or dog allergy is also a risk factor for the development of allergic rhinitis or asthma.

Exposure to pet dander in the environment

It is possible to develop an allergy to an animal or pet at any time, even where that animal has previously been a pet, or where a pet does not live in your home. Workplace exposure can occur for occupations such as vets, farmers, and laboratory scientists.

Pet allergens can also be found in schools and public places where they have been transferred on clothing and shoes from pet owners. Exposure to cat allergen in schools can exacerbate symptoms in asthmatic children with cat allergy.

Cat allergen is particularly persistent and can remain in homes long after a cat is no longer there. Pet dander can become airborne as hair is shed by grooming and collects on furniture and other surfaces.

Horse allergy is an important problem even in a young urban population. It causes a wide range of allergic symptoms from urticaria (rash) to respiratory problems. This type of allergen can also be carried on clothing with the dander being transferred.

Hypo-allergenic pets

There is no such thing as a truly non-allergic dog or cat.

Signs and symptoms of a pet allergy

Allergic symptoms of a pet allergy can be mild, moderate or severe, depending upon the individuals sensitivity and level of exposure. They can start within minutes of exposure or can be delayed (late phase response) and include:

• Sneezing
• Coughing
• Breathing difficulties
• Wheeze
• Watery, red, itchy eyes
• Skin rash/Hives
• Eczema flare
• Anaphylaxis

Diagnosing a pet allergy

Identifying allergic triggers is an important part of managing an allergy.

If you suspect pet allergy it is important to discuss this with your GP or Health Professional, especially if you have other allergic conditions such as asthma, rhinitis or eczema.

Your GP/Health Professional may refer you for allergy testing to confirm or exclude a pet allergy. This can be done by a blood test for specific IgE to the suspected animal and/or by skin prick testing. Referral to an allergy specialist may be needed. Allergy testing before getting a pet for people without any symptoms of allergy is unhelpful. This is because subsequent exposure may still lead to allergy in a person who has previously not been allergic to pets.

Practical advice on reducing animal dander exposure

Using a combination of the following pet allergen control measures may help to reduce symptoms and control existing allergic symptoms that are triggered by pet allergen.

Inside the home:

• Keep pets outside if possible and always out of the bedroom
• Do not allow pets to sit or sleep on soft furnishings such as sofas, cushions, or beds
• Wash pet bedding regularly on a hot wash
• Remove horse-riding clothes before entering the home. Bag and wash them and shower after riding
• Using an air purifier may help reduce indoor airborne allergens

Outside the home:

• Avoid contact with relevant animals
• If possible avoid visiting homes/areas where pets live
• If exposure is likely, try taking an antihistamine beforehand and use your prescribed preventative treatment for asthma / rhinitis. Avoid touching the pet or being in the same room
• Wash hands after touching or being licked by a pet
• Washing and grooming pets regularly (by a non-allergic person) may help reduce allergen shedding.

By cleaning:

The aim of these recommendations are to reduce the amount of allergen in the air and environment, including on surfaces, soft and hard furnishings and the floor.

• Damp dust as often as possible to help keep pet dander (as well as dust mites and other allergens) to a minimum
• Clean carpets using a vacuum (but it must be one with a HEPA (high efficiency particulate air) filter and wash hard floor surfaces with hot, soapy water
• Wash soft furnishings like duvet covers, curtains, cushions, soft toys on a hot wash cycle
• Super- heated steam cleaning has the potential to disrupt allergens so that they no longer cause symptoms
• Clean animal cages outside and replace any bedding or litter that has urine on it.

Pet allergy management and treatment

1. Avoid the pet or animal where possible
2. If this is impossible or insufficient then medication to help alleviate the symptoms can be used after advice from a Health professional (GP or Pharmacist). Medicines include:

• Non-sedating antihistamines
• Antihistamine nasal sprays
• Eye drops
• Nasal sprays
• Asthma inhalers
• Allergen barrier balm

1. In moderate to severe pet-induced allergy, allergen-specific immunotherapy may be appropriate. This requires initial GP assessment then referral to allergy/immunology specialist. It is unlikely to be NHS funded.

Seasonal Allergies in Dogs

What Are Seasonal Allergies in Dogs?

Dogs can be allergic to various things in the environment, such as pollen from trees and grass. If a dog displays allergy symptoms only during certain seasons, such as spring and fall, a seasonal allergy rather than a year-round allergy is suspected. This means that the dog is allergic to allergens that are in the environment only during certain times of the year.

Dogs with seasonal allergies can be itchy in specific areas, such as their paws, or be itchy all over. They can also have recurring ear infections and skin infections when they are exposed to various environmental allergens at certain times during the year.

Seasonal allergies are different from year-round environmental allergies and food allergies because symptoms are observed only during specific times of the year, depending on what the dog is allergic to and when the specific allergens are prevalent in the environment. In contrast, dogs with year-round allergies will have skin issues all year long.

Most dogs with seasonal allergies have symptoms during the spring (March through May) and fall (September through November), but this can vary based on weather and location.

Types of Seasonal Allergies in Dogs

The following allergens commonly cause seasonal allergies in dogs:

Symptoms of Seasonal Allergies in Dogs

Symptoms will vary depending upon the dog, but may include:

• Excessive licking, usually of the paws, but the licking can be anywhere on the body

• Saliva staining of the fur where the dog is licking the skin excessively

• Chewing/gnawing

• Scratching

• Hair loss

• Redness of the skin

• Crusts

• Moist skin

• Darkening of the skin (black pigmented skin)

• Thickening of the skin (elephant skin)

• Odor to the skin or ears

• Head shaking

• Pawing at the ears, eyes, or face

• Recurring scooting or licking of the anus due to anal sacs becoming problematic secondary to allergies

• Watery eyes

• Reverse sneezing

The most common areas of a dogs body that are affected by seasonal allergies are the paws (especially between the digits), limbs, mouth, ears, abdomen, groin, armpits, tail, and around the eyes.

Causes of Seasonal Allergies in Dogs

A dog that suffers from seasonal allergies has an immune system that is hypersensitive to specific allergens in the environment. When the levels of the allergens become high, the dogs immune system becomes triggered, leading to an allergic response and the development of symptoms.

How Veterinarians Diagnose Seasonal Allergies in Dogs

Seasonal allergies are diagnosed based on physical exam findings, symptoms, and a history of having recurring symptoms and infections during the same seasons annually.

Other skin conditions that can cause similar symptoms must also be ruled out, such as skin mites, fleas, or a food allergy, to reach a diagnosis of seasonal allergies. If fleas are found on a dog with symptoms of severe itchiness, redness, and hair loss, then a flea allergy is diagnosed and the dog is started on effective flea and tick prevention and anti-itch medication to see if symptoms resolve.

Treatment of Seasonal Allergies in Dogs

Seasonal allergies are a chronic condition, which means there is no cure. However, there are ways to treat and manage symptoms to keep your dog comfortable, including:

• Year-round flea and tick prevention such as NexGard, Simparica, Bravecto, Seresto collar,and K9 Advantix II

• Anti-itch medications such as Apoquel, Cytopoint, and prednisone are prescribed to alleviate any current itchiness and to manage the itch during flare-ups. If the itch can be controlled, the dog will remain comfortable and be at less risk for secondary skin infections.

• Once the allergy seasons are determined for a dog based on prior history, the anti-itch medication is started one month prior to the start of the allergy season and continued one month past when the allergy season ends.

• An omega-3 fatty acid (fish oil) supplement, such as Welactin, Vetoquinol, or Dermaquin, will protect the skin barrier and minimize allergy symptoms.

  • An omega-3 fatty acid supplement can also help with anal gland issues for dogs that tend to need their anal glands expressed more frequently during allergy season. It takes four to sixweeks for an omega-3 fatty acid supplement to become effective, so it is best for a dog with seasonal allergies to be on this supplement year-round.

• Routine ear cleaning can help clear a current ear infection and reduce the frequency of future ear infections. If an ear infection is present, treat the infection and clean the ears based on recommendations from your veterinarian. When there is no infection, clean the dogs ears with a routine ear cleaner, like EpiOtic Advanced, on a routine basis throughout the year (typically every two to threeweeks for maintenance).

• Ear medications, such as Mometamax, Posatex, and Tresaderm, are prescribed to treat bacterial and/or yeast infections in a dogs ears. After treatment, make sure to schedule a follow-up appointment with your veterinarian to recheck that the infection has resolved.

• Oral medications are often needed when a dog has a skin infection on multiple areas of the body. Antibiotics, such as clindamycin and cephalexin, are prescribed to treat bacterial skin infections, and anti-fungal medication, such as ketoconazole, is prescribed to treat fungal skin infections, such as yeast infections.

• Topical therapy can be used to soothe the skin and help with treatment of skin infections. There are many topical therapy options, including anti-bacterial and anti-fungal ointments, shampoos, conditioners, mousses, sprays, and wipes. Ask your veterinarian which topical therapy would work best based on your dogs allergy symptoms and current skin condition.

Immunotherapy for Dogs With Seasonal Allergies

Immunotherapy consists of either allergy shots or allergy oral drops that are formulated based on allergy test results. To determine what environmental allergens a dog is most allergic to based on where the dog lives, a blood test can be performed by your veterinarian using a specific blood test (Heskas Allercept or Nextmunes Pet Allergy Xplorer) to screen a dog for environmental allergies.

In addition to the allergy blood test, a veterinary dermatologist will also perform intradermal testing, which involves injecting small amounts of various environmental allergens into a dogs skin in specific locations. The injection sites are then monitored over a period of time for signs of a skin reaction. If a reaction is seen, then the dog is likely allergic to the allergen that was injected at that site.

It is important to note that the allergy (blood) testing and the intradermal testing are not performed to provide a diagnosis of seasonal allergies. Rather, they are used to aid in creating immunotherapy treatment for a dog that has been diagnosed with seasonal allergies. The goal with immunotherapy is to desensitize a dog to the environmental allergens that trigger the allergy symptoms. Immunotherapy is usually given long-term at a maintenance dose.

It is difficult to limit a dogs exposure to certain allergens. Pollen from trees, grass, or weeds can be tracked into the house easily. Wiping a pups paws when they come inside can sometimes be helpful.

Recovery and Management of Seasonal Allergies in Dogs

Seasonal allergies are not only frustrating for dogs but also for pet parents, because they are not curable. Fortunately, though, with seasonal allergies, symptoms can be managed by knowing what seasons trigger a dogs symptoms and initiating treatment prior to the start of each allergy season. Anti-itch medication should manage the itch throughout each season so that the dog is not scratching, licking, or chewing at the skin, which can lead to secondary skin infections.

Cleaning your dogs ears every two to three weeks year-round with a routine ear cleaner is important to minimize the risk of an ear infection to develop. The ears should also be cleaned after your dog has a bath or partakes in a water activity, such as swimming, to remove any water from within the ear canals. Giving an omega-3 fatty acid supplement daily year-round can provide skin support as well. Management of seasonal allergies is usually lifelong unless a dog is able to move to an area where the allergen that is causing the reaction is no longer present.

Monitor your pet for the following symptoms throughout the year:

• Itchiness (scratching, licking, gnawing, chewing)

• Head shaking or pawing at the ears or eyes

• Any skin lesions (such as redness, crusts, thickened or black pigmented skin)

• Odor to the skin or ears

If you see any of these symptoms, schedule a vet appointment as soon as possible. Your dogs skin condition can worsen quickly if allergy symptoms are not controlled. If your dog is licking or chewing, have them wear an e-collar until the appointment to prevent further worsening of the skin. Your veterinarian will prescribe treatment to make your dog more comfortable and treat for any skin or ear infection, if present. Managing a dogs allergy symptoms with therapy and reporting to your veterinarian any skin issues as they arise are the most effective ways to help a dog with seasonal allergies.

WRITTEN BY

Michelle Diener, DVM

Veterinarian

I live in Raleigh, North Carolina. I obtained by BS degree in Biology at UNC-Chapel Hill in 2000 and my DVM degree at NCSU in 2006. I have...