Does your dog have allergies? Or you know a guy who knows a guy whose dog has allergies? Or you’re worried that your dog will get allergies? Or your veterinarian has told you that your dog has allergies?

Tired with all these questions? Allergies in dogs aren’t simple. This is because when your dog has it, you might not even know what caused it. There are different types of dog allergies, and different symptoms causing it.

But firstly what are dog allergies?

In scientific terms allergies are reactions to any foreign substance by the body’s immune system. There are different types of dog allergies like skin allergy, food allergy, and allergies from the environment that affect your dog.

The reason you might not even know what caused your dog a certain allergy is because the symptoms of all the allergies overlap. But still you can find out if your dog has allergies, through its symptoms.

Looking out for the symptoms is the first step to treat their allergies.

It’s time we tell you this: the symptoms of allergies vary depending on the cause. For example your dog might go into an anaphylactic shock, that will drop their blood pressure, after that shock. This can be because of an allergy.

But don’t worry, here are other symptoms you can surely look out for to find out if your dog has allergies:

• Itchiness : If your dog is scratching their body a little bit too much, chances are they have skin allergy.

• Hives : Hives are also other symptoms of allergy.

• Swelling in the face : Sometimes your dog might have an allergic reaction, which might swell their faces, ears, eyelids, or even lips.

• Inflamed Skin : Due to skin allergy and due to scratching your dog’s skin may become red and inflamed.

• Diarrhea : Too much going to the toilet out of nowhere can be because of an allergic reaction to food or water.

• Vomiting : Another symptom is the inability to digest food. When your dog is allergic to certain types of food, they vomit.

• Sneezing : If your dog sneezes this is probably because of an allergic reaction.

• Ear Infection : Sometimes due to allergy your dog might get an ear infection, this is generally true when the allergy has affected their ears, and they’re scratching too much.

Other symptoms to look out for:

• Runny or itchy or red eyes.

• Itchy, runny, or stuffy nose.

• Coughing and wheezing.

Now that you know about the symptoms, let's find out what causes these irritating allergies.

To find out what causes allergies in dogs, dog allergies are divided into types. Here are the types of allergies in dogs:

Skin allergies are also known as allergic dermatitis. This is very common in dogs. Allergic dermatitis happens mostly because of:

• Fleas : When fleas bite, dogs have an allergic reaction to it, causing them allergic dermatitis. Some dogs are even allergic to the saliva of fleas, which makes their skin red, inflamed, or scabbed. This is the easiest allergy in dogs to treat. You can get flea medication to help them heal their skin.

• Food allergies : This allergy affects the paws, and ears, making them itchy. Sometimes your dog might have gastrointestinal problems. Your dog might get food allergies from eating anything they are allergic to. This can cause symptoms like hives, swelling, vomiting, and diarrhea.

• Environmental allergens : Dust, pollen, fungus, and mole, these villains are responsible for giving your dog allergic dermatitis. However, allergies because of environmental triggers are mostly seasonal.

All these allergies, no matter how trivial they look, have the potential to cause secondary infection. This is because when your dog bites, licks, or scratches the affected area of the allergy, they open that spot for yeast and bacterial infection. This will lead to secondary infection, which will need serious medical treatment. 

Allergies also happen because of hives. Hives are itchy, but they are not life-threatening. Whenever your dog is exposed to allergens, it might trigger hives. These hives can start appearing anywhere from 6 to 24 hours after exposure to allergens.

These hives give your dog an itchy, swelled skin that looks like a red rash. To treat hives your vet will give your dog an antihistamine.

Allergy can also be in the form of edema in the face or throat. This makes your dog’s face or throat look like it is swelling. But not to worry, it is not fatal. In some cases your dog’s eyelids or eye flaps might also swell, this situation is called angioneurotic edema.

This type of allergy can be treated easily no matter how serious it looks. Edema and even angioneurotic edema happen after 30 minutes to a few hours of exposure to allergens. The swelling might even come with hives.

Your vet will give your dog an antihistamine injection to treat the edema. But if it is left untreated it can take a day or two for the swelling to go away on its own.

This is one of the most severe allergic reactions a dog can experience. Like humans, dogs can go into anaphylactic shock if their body has an extreme reaction to an allergen.

Here’s how it works: when your dog’s immune system produces antibodies that react negatively to an allergen, it can cause their blood pressure to drop rapidly, putting their body into shock.

This is as serious as it gets and it can be fatal if not treated immediately. But here’s some good news: anaphylactic reactions are infrequent in dogs.

Bee or wasp stings and reactions to vaccines are the common reasons your dog might get anaphylactic shock.

That’s why your vet will always ask you to monitor your dog closely after they’ve received any new vaccine, medication, or food item. 

Here are some common medicinal treatments based on different types of allergies:

• For Hives or General Allergic Reactions: Your vet might suggest antihistamines to reduce itching and swelling. Cortisones are given for more intense reactions to relieve inflammation. Sometimes medicated shampoos are also given to soothe irritated skin and cleanse allergens.

• For Food Allergies: Your vet might suggest Omega-3 fatty acid supplements, like fish oil, to reduce inflammation and improve skin health. They might even suggest hypoallergenic diets or limited-ingredient dog foods to avoid allergens.

• For Skin Allergies (Dermatitis): Your vet will suggest dog-safe anti-inflammatory wipes to relieve the skin irritation. They might even suggest medicated shampoos designed for dogs to relieve itching and remove allergens on the skin.

Always consult your veterinarian before using any medication or supplement for your dog to make sure it’s safe and effective.

Treating dog allergies is all about identifying the cause and taking allergy-treating action. Here’s what you need to know:

• Flea Allergy Dermatitis: This is one of the easiest allergies to treat. Vets usually identify fleas on your dog’s body and recommend applying a flea-killing product to stop bites.

• Allergy Testing: The first step your vet takes is ruling out any other condition that might imitate allergy symptoms, like infections or hormonal issues. If an allergy is suspected in a test your vet will recommend allergy testing to point out the specific allergen triggering your dog’s reaction.

• Food Allergy Diagnosis: Food allergies are diagnosed through an elimination diet. This diet involves feeding your dog one single source of protein and carbohydrate for 12 weeks, with no treats or extras, to identify the trigger.

• Other Allergies: Work with your vet to reduce exposure to allergens and manage symptoms with medications, supplements, or topical treatments.

The best way to treat any allergy is by avoiding the allergens. Your veterinarian will guide you toward the most effective treatment plan to keep your dog comfortable and healthy.

Below are the home remedies to treat dog allergies. But remember, home remedies should always complement veterinary treatment.

• Oatmeal Baths: Oatmeal has natural anti-inflammatory properties that can relax the itchy, irritated skin. Mix plain, unflavored oatmeal with water to form a paste, or use an oatmeal-based dog shampoo. Gently massage it into your dog’s skin and rinse to remove allergens.

• Apple Cider Vinegar (Diluted): Apple cider vinegar acts as a natural antiseptic and antifungal remedy for skin allergies. Dilute it with equal parts water and spray onto affected areas, avoiding open wounds. This can reduce itchiness and fight bacteria.

• Coconut Oil: Coconut oil contains lauric acid, which has antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties. Apply a small amount of organic, unrefined coconut oil directly to dry or itchy patches. You can also add it to your dog’s diet, but consult your vet for the right amount.

• Wiping Down After Walks: Allergens like pollen, dust, and grass can stick to your dog’s fur and skin after being outside. Use a damp cloth or pet-safe wipes to clean their paws, belly, and coat. This minimizes exposure to allergens and prevents them from spreading indoors.

• Aloe Vera Gel (Dog-Safe): Pure aloe vera gel (without added chemicals) can soothe hot spots and irritated skin caused by allergies.

• Dietary Supplements: Omega-3 fatty acids, like those found in fish oil, can reduce inflammation and improve skin health. Probiotics can also support gut health, which is important in managing allergies.

• Cool Compresses: A cool compress can reduce swelling and discomfort caused by skin allergies or hives. Use a clean, damp cloth or pet-safe cooling pad on the affected areas. Repeat as needed to provide relief and keep your dog comfortable.

Dog allergies can be frustrating, both for your dog and for you. But understanding the types, symptoms, and treatments makes you act quickly. From flea allergies to anaphylactic shock, knowing what to look for and how to respond can save your dog from unnecessary pain and discomfort.

While some remedies and treatments can be done at home, the best course of action is always consulting your veterinarian. With the right care, you can help your dog lead a healthier, happier life, free from the stress of allergies.

Treating dog allergies depends on identifying the type and cause of the allergy. For flea allergies, eliminating fleas with medications is key. For food allergies, an elimination diet helps pinpoint triggers, while environmental allergies may require reducing exposure to allergens like pollen or dust. Vets may prescribe antihistamines, Omega-3 supplements, or medicated shampoos to manage symptoms. Always consult your veterinarian to create a personalized treatment plan for your dog.

Dog allergies occur when your immune system overreacts to proteins found in a dog’s skin cells (dander), saliva, or urine. Contrary to popular belief, it’s not the fur causing the reaction but these microscopic proteins. Some breeds may produce less dander, but no dog is entirely hypoallergenic. Regular grooming, cleaning, and air purifiers can help reduce allergens in your home.

The most common dog allergies include:

• Flea Allergy Dermatitis: A reaction to flea saliva, causing intense itching and inflamed skin.

• Food Allergies: Triggered by certain proteins like beef, chicken, or grains, leading to gastrointestinal issues or itchy skin.

• Environmental Allergies: Caused by pollen, mold, or dust mites, leading to seasonal itching, sneezing, and redness.

Each type of allergy may present differently, so recognizing symptoms is crucial to seeking timely treatment.

To minimize allergens, regular grooming is important. Bathe your dog with hypoallergenic shampoos to reduce dander, and wipe down their fur after walks to remove pollen. Feed them a high-quality diet rich in Omega-3 fatty acids to improve skin health. Keep your home clean with vacuuming and use air purifiers to filter out allergens.