Allergies
  |
Every breed of dog is susceptible to allergies. Typically the first sign of this is itchy, irritated skin. Some dogs will get a runny nose or eyes, sneeze, and can even have diarrhea and vomiting as well. Finding the actual cause for the allergic reaction can be a tough job though.
With a lot of dogs, the source of the problem is their food. Even if the dog has been eating the same food all of it's life, it can suddenly develop an allergy to it. Usually the cause of the allergy is corn or soy in the food. If you suspect the food is the problem, switch to a food that is hypoallergenic for several weeks and see if the problem goes away. When switching foods, be sure to do it gradually over a two week period. Sudden food changes can cause loose stools, vomiting, and even hemmoragic gastroenteritis and death. To learn more about how to properly switch your dog to a new food, please read How to Switch Dog Foods.
Another common allergic condition is atopy, which refers to an inhalant allergic reaction to environmental components such as molds, plants, dust and even furniture stuffing. These allergens may be seasonal, but the only way to figure out what is really bothering the dog is to have a veterinary dermatologist to conduct a intradermal skin test. This test is what is done with human allergy sufferers as well. If your dog has been on a steroid such as Prednisone due to the allergies, the dog needs to be off of the medication for a period of at least 6 weeks before having the allergy testing done.
A lot of dogs are also sensitive to flea collars, flea bites, or the dyes in plastic food dishes. If it is a flea collar, you will see loss of hair or redness around the dogs neck. Remove the collar and wash the dog with a mild soap- and usually an Vet Solutions Aloe and Oatmeal Conditioner (16 oz)or Hypo Allergenic Shampoo will help soothe the irritant. If the problem is a plastic food dish, you will see a red, irritated nose and possibly little bumps on or around the nose that may appear like pimples. It's best to switch to a metal bowl since plastics cannot only cause allergies, but bacteria can also live in the tiny scratches on a plastic bowl. Glass or ceramic bowls can also be used, but these are fairly easy to break and not ideal for dogs that tend to play with or near their food dishes.
Brushing up against certain types of flowers, such as Mums, can cause dogs to break out into large hives. Usually a bath and a benadryl can solve the problem, however in more severe cases or cases where there has been a great deal of exposure to the allergin, a trip to the vet may be needed.
When dealing with an allergic reaction, Benedryl is usually given to ease the symptoms. If the problem is severe, your vet will want to give a cortisone shot as well or oral steroids. Usually Benedryl once or twice a day will do though. Be sure to talk to your vet about the proper dosage for Benedryl before you give any to your dog.
Are there certain breeds that tend to get allergies more than others? Any dog can develop allergies. The breeds I've personally seen have the most allergies are Labrador Retrievers, Bichon Frise, Cocker Spaniels, Rat Terriers, Miniature Schnauzers and Shih-Tzus.
