Dog Allergies: How Common Are They?
Allergies in dogs are a very frequent reality because of the multiplicity of substances capable of causing them. Knowing the most common and their potential symptoms is very helpful in knowing how to deal with them.
In general, the term allergy refers to hyperactivity or hypersensitivity of the immune system to contact with certain substances.
These substances, called allergens, can be of plant, animal or even inorganic origin. Once ingested, inhaled or absorbed through the skin, they will cause the characteristic signs of the inflammatory process.
The main culprit for this inflammation is a chemical called histamine. It is released when the allergen combines with antibodies emitted by the immune system, causing the characteristic symptoms of redness, swelling and itching.
Allergies in dogs usually appear after six months of life and, in addition to being common, some can also be hereditary.
Most common canine allergies
Just like in humans, there is a plethora of canine allergies with their respective symptoms. However, it is convenient to take into account the possible responses of each organism.
- Allergy to inhalable substances or atopy. The main allergens are pollen, mold, fungi and house mites. Although they are related to seasonality, some can occur permanently, especially those associated with dust or pollution. Itching in the face, ears, front legs or abdomen are quite common symptoms. The most serious cases can trigger rhinitis, asthma, desquamation and alopecia.
- Food allergy. While it can be caused by any ingredient, those of a protein nature, such as meat, milk, soy, eggs or gluten, are the most common. In addition to the symptoms of inflammation, there can also be digestive and respiratory disorders. To diagnose it, elimination diets are usually used, excluding certain products for two or three months.
- Allergy to stings. It occurs when the inflammatory response is exaggerated and goes beyond the typical wheal. Some of the most common are those caused by spiders, bees, wasps, mosquitoes, fleas and ticks. The characteristic symptoms are local swelling and, as the animal scratches or licks the area excessively to relieve the itching, there may be alopecia or secondary infections.
Diagnosis and Treatment of Dog Allergies
The diagnosis of allergies in dogs can be quite complex, given the diversity of allergens and overlapping allergies in some cases. For this reason, it is essential that tutors are aware of any symptoms of inflammation or other disorders that have arisen ‘spontaneously’. The veterinarian uses all of these signs, along with age, race, and medical history, to assess for a possible allergy.
The diagnostic difficulty is even greater, especially in the case of food allergies, as blood and skin tests are usually inconclusive.
In contrast, these types of allergies are the easiest to treat because, usually, the exclusion of the ingredient in question leads to the disappearance of symptoms.
In the case of atopy, the treatment is more complicated due to the presence of the allergen in the environment. Its treatment depends on the duration and exposure of the animal. Anti-inflammatory therapy based on corticosteroids or antihistamines is the quickest and most effective alternative. Additionally, it is also possible to opt for preventive vaccines and, as a complementary measure, to use hypoallergenic shampoos.
Also, to improve the symptoms of excessive inflammation in the face of a sting, oral or topical anti-inflammatory drugs are the most common. Finally, it is important that the dog is prevented from touching the affected area.
Although allergies in dogs are quite common, once the diagnosis is made, they are relatively easy to control. For this, the perseverance of the tutors in the meticulous care of the animal will be essential.
