Allergies in dogs

Allergies are fairly common in dogs and can be caused by a variety of factors, such as food, the environment or contact allergens. Allergy symptoms vary and often affect the skin, digestive system and respiratory system. Here is a detailed look at allergies in dogs, their causes, symptoms and treatment:

Types of allergy

1. Food allergies
   - Caused by specific ingredients in the dog's diet, most often proteins such as chicken, beef, eggs, dairy, soya or grains.
2. Environmental (atopic) allergies
   - Triggered by allergens in the environment, such as pollen, mould, house dust mites, fleas and others.
3. Contact allergies
   - Result from the dog's skin coming into direct contact with an allergen, such as chemicals, metals, synthetic materials, shampoos or plants.

Allergy symptoms

• Skin: Itching, redness, rash, hair loss, dandruff, skin infections, especially around the ears, paws, groin and armpits.
• Digestive system: Vomiting, diarrhoea, excessive drooling, wind, bad breath.
• Respiratory system: Sneezing, coughing, shortness of breath, discharge from the nose or eyes.
• General: Excessive licking, chewing the paws, scratching, frequent head shaking.

Diagnosis

1. History and clinical examination
   - The vet will take a detailed history, covering the dog's health record, diet, symptoms and their severity, and any possible exposure to allergens.
2. Diagnostic tests
   - Skin tests: Allergens are introduced into the dog's skin and the reactions are observed.
   - Serological tests: A blood test to detect specific antibodies against allergens.
   - Elimination diet: Used when a food allergy is suspected; the dog is fed a special diet for several weeks, after which potential allergens are gradually reintroduced to identify the culprit.

Treatment

1. Avoiding allergens
   - Food: Switching to a hypoallergenic or elimination diet to rule out food allergens.
   - Environment: Avoiding places with lots of pollen, house dust mites and mould. Frequent vacuuming, washing bedding and bathing your dog regularly can help reduce exposure to allergens.
2. Medication
   - Antihistamines: Drugs such as diphenhydramine or loratadine can help relieve allergy symptoms.
   - Steroids: Used for severe symptoms, although long-term use can lead to side effects.
   - Anti-itch drugs: Drugs such as oclacitinib (Apoquel) can reduce itching and inflammation.
   - Immunotherapy: Used for environmental allergies; it involves giving small doses of allergens to build tolerance.
3. Grooming and care
   - Medicated shampoos: Bathing in special shampoos can help soothe skin symptoms.
   - Supplements: Omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids can help improve skin and coat health.

Summary

Allergies in dogs can be difficult to manage, but the right diagnosis and treatment can greatly improve your dog's quality of life. If you suspect your dog has an allergy, see your vet for an accurate diagnosis and appropriate treatment. Regularly monitoring your dog's health and following your vet's advice will help keep allergy symptoms under control.

If you have any more questions about feeding your pet, write to us: ekspert@bemokarmy.pl

BEMO HEALTH ACADEMY Vet. Magdalena Machowska Bemo brand expert