Types Of Dog Skin Allergies And Their Symptoms

More dogs have allergies today then ever before. Estimates reveal that as many as one out of every seven dogs displays symptoms of an allergy. In fact, dog skin allergies are the number one reason why owners bring their pets to a veterinarian. Heredity is believed to contribute to these problems. Breed also seems to matter, as some types are much more likely to develop issues than others. An allergy is a negative reaction after exposure to environmental stimuli, food, or an inhalant. Whatever the offending substance is that dogs are exposed to is termed an allergen. This allergen stimulates the immune system of a dog to perform a hypersensitive or allergic reaction. Dogs must come into contact with a substance at least twice before they can have a reaction from it. During the first time of exposure, the immune system manufactures antibodies. Afterwards, when exposure again occurs, an antibody directed reaction takes place that produces histamine, a chemical mediator. Humans experience symptoms normally within the respiratory system. Dogs have skin related symptoms instead. Continual itching is a very common sign of problems. In addition to this, dogs can also become short tempered or unpleasant, due to their suffering. There are two categories of hypersensitivities. The first happens immediately, only minutes after exposure, and causes the formation of hives. Severe types of immediate responses can cause anaphylactic shock, weakness, collapse, breathing difficulties, diarrhea, vomiting, and death. Delayed response types happen from hours to days after exposure. The main indicator of this type is an extreme itching sensation. Canine allergies are due to four main causes. The first of these are fleas and other biting insects. The second is inhaling allergens like pollen, molds, grasses, and dust mites. The third is from ingesting drugs or certain foods. Last, irritation can occur because of direct physical contact. Hives are a common issue for dogs. They occur because of an immediate type reaction and form raised circular areas on skin. They often cause hairs to stick out and form patches. Eyelids may also become swollen. Hives can develop thirty minutes after exposure and vanish within twenty four hours. The cause of hives are soaps, insect bites, insecticides, vaccinations, or antibiotics. If they appear, disappear, and then come back again it is likely an environmental based cause. If problems are believed to result from food, dietary modifications should be made. Complications following shampooing can be corrected by bathing pets and purchasing a different hypoallergenic product. Fleas cause both immediate and delayed responses. Itching begins almost immediately after being bitten and continues as long as they are present. Flea control is typically the solution to this issue. All other pets must be treated to avoid reinfestation and antihistamines can help control itching. Medicated baths or antibiotics are often necessary forms of relief. Dog skin allergies are increasingly popular. They occur due to foods, airborne substances, or anything an animal comes into physical contact with. Symptoms may take place almost immediately or be somewhat delayed, appearing days later. Flea allergies cause both of these reaction types.

Jennifer is a family pet health practitioner who specializes in treatment for skin allergies in dogs.