
Allergies in dogs
Dogs can be affected by allergies, but there are ways to manage the symptoms.
Humans are not the only ones to suffer with allergies. Unfortunately, dogs can suffer from them too. Itchy skin can be really uncomfortable for dogs, which has a big impact on their quality of life. Common allergies include grass, food, flea and dust mites.
Allergies can be caused by many different environmental factors. Depending on the cause and your dog’s reaction, symptoms can be managed in various ways.
Find out the signs and treatments of common allergies in dogs.
Important
If your dog is itching, don't just try and stop them from scratching (eg by using a buster collar). It's important to try and tackle the underlying cause too, or they'll still be itchy but cannot relieve it.
Signs of allergies in dogs
Symptoms of allergies can vary depending on the cause. But some common signs include:
- itching (either in specific areas or all over the body)
- biting or licking the skin
- broken, red or sore skin
- hives or a rash
Sometimes allergies can affect other parts of the body too. Your dog might get ear infections as well as skin symptoms. Some allergies, such as food allergy, can also cause stomach problems. Common symptoms include:
- vomiting and/or diarrhoea (which can come and go over time)
- weight loss
- reduced appetite
These can be seen with skin symptoms, or as the only sign of the allergy.
Very rarely your dog may have a severe allergic reaction (also known as anaphylaxis). During severe allergic reactions , your dog may experience:
- severe vomiting and/or diarrhoea
- a swollen face or muzzle
- regularly passing blood or mucus
- difficulty breathing
- collapsing
Important
Anaphylaxis in dogs is an emergency. If you think your dog is experiencing anaphylaxis, contact your vet immediately.
Common causes of skin allergies in dogs
Flea allergies in dogs
Flea allergies typically cause intense itchiness and sore skin around the base of a dog's tail, back and thighs. Sometimes you will see evidence of fleas, or flea dirt.
If your dog is allergic to fleas, you'll need to be especially careful when it comes to flea treatment (not just for your dog, but for all dogs and cats in the house). This will help to prevent your dog's allergy from being triggered. A dog with a flea allergy can have a severe skin reaction to just one bite, so strict flea control is essential.
It’s also important to treat the house too, as the fleas do not just live on your pet’s fur.
Treatment for flea allergies in dogs
If your vet suspects your dog is suffering from a flea allergy, they may advise:
- medication to reduce flare ups
- flea treatment all year round for your dog, as well as other dogs and cats in the household
treatment for your house (such as deep cleaning carpets, bedding and other surfaces within your home) - household flea spray
Pollen allergies in dogs
Pollen allergies in dogs can develop at any age. The allergies are caused by airborne pollens.
While pollen allergies can be worse in spring and summer, if a dog comes into contact with pollen at any time of year this can trigger symptoms. This could be through rolling in the grass or breathing in pollen on a walk.
Treatment for pollen allergies in dogs
While pollen allergies cannot be cured, the symptoms can be managed.
- If your dog has a pollen allergy, your vet may recommend a medicated shampoo. Wash your dog after walks to wash away the allergens before they have an effect.
- Check the pollen forecast before you take your dog for a walk. Pollen counts are usually lowest early in the morning and early evening.
- When the pollen count is high, keep windows and doors shut. This will help to prevent pollen getting indoors.
- When your dog has flare ups or the pollen count is high, they may need medications
More on pollen allergies in dogs
Food allergies in dogs
Food allergies can develop in dogs of any age. They typically occur with a food they’ve been fed for some time rather than a new food. Food allergies can also trigger an upset stomach.
Treatment for food allergies in dogs
If your vet suspects your dog is suffering from a food allergy, they will suggest a diet trial.
Your vet will usually recommend a special food to feed your pet for between six and 12 weeks. They must have no other food at all during this time, including dental chews and treats.
While on the special diet, your dog may show improvement in their symptoms. Towards the end of the trial you can arrange a recheck appointment to discuss the next steps with your vet.
Note
Diet trials are worth it. Simply feeding your dog the correct diet means they won’t require long-term drugs for their condition, which is better for their general health.
Atopy in dogs
Atopy (skin allergies) is an inherited condition in dogs. It affects many breeds, but especially terriers. Signs usually develop between six months and three years of age.
If your dog suffers from atopy, they will be very itchy, often scratching throughout the day and night. They may bite, lick, chew, or rub at their:
- paws
- ears
- face
- belly
- groin
- bottom
- inner thighs
Atopy can have multiple triggers. They can act together to cause the allergy. As the disease progresses, your dog may develop skin infections. These can make the skin smell, feel greasy or succumb to a rash. You may also notice scabs, red patches of skin, hair loss or ear infections. Many dogs with atopy will be itchy all year round, but the symptoms can improve or worsen at different times.
Unfortunately, there is no test for atopy. Instead, your vet will need to rule out all other causes of itchiness. This can be a time-consuming process, as atopy can be present alongside other allergies:
- Your vet may take skin samples to look for parasites and infections
- They will also ensure all the animals in the household are receiving regular flea treatment
- They will need to ask you to do a diet trial to rule out the possibility of a food allergy
Treatment for skin allergies in dogs
There is no cure for atopy and the disease is life long. But there are things your vet may recommend to reduce your dog’s discomfort and improve their quality of life.
It’s important to note that no single treatment is effective for all dogs. Your vet will tailor your dog's treatment according to their individual needs.
Potential treatments for skin allergies include:
- medications to reduce itching and inflammation
- bathing with medicated shampoo
- omega 3 and 6 fatty acids (these can have a mild effect)
- regular flea treatment (you may need to look at alternatives to spot-on treatment if you’re bathing your pet regularly with medicated shampoo)
Neutering your dog
If you have a female dog with atopy, your vet may suggest neutering them, as this will help reduce the severity of their symptoms. We strongly advise that dogs with atopy are not used for breeding as this condition is inherited and will be passed on to their puppies.
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Reviewed
• 23 October 2024
Next review
• 22 October 2027