What are some of the causes of skin conditions in dogs?
There are countless reasons why your dog may start to scratch, lick or bite at their fur, but some of the more common causes of itchy skin include:
- Dandruff
- Dirt Buildup
- Parasitic Bites
- Hives
- Skin Allergies
For the purpose of this post, we will focus on sharing information about skin allergies in dogs.
What are skin allergies in dogs?
Mild to severe skin allergies (allergic dermatitis) are the most common reactions in dogs. Dogs suffering from this uncomfortable condition are tormented by inflamed, itchy and generally uncomfortable skin. Fortunately, effective treatments are available, but first, it's a matter of pinpointing the cause of your pup's skin allergy.
What causes skin allergies in dogs?
The three main causes of skin allergies in dogs are fleas, individual ingredients in their food and environmental allergens.
Flea Allergy Dermatitis
A flea’s saliva will trigger an allergic reaction in some dogs. This can result in flea allergy dermatitis, making your pooch’s skin extremely itchy - especially at the base of the tail. You may find their skin becomes red, inflamed, and scabbed. Other signs of fleas include flea dirt (feces), and you may occasionally see the fleas themselves.
Food Allergies
Your pet’s itchy skin may be a symptom of food allergies or sensitivities. Look for scratching at their paws or ears, along with potential gastrointestinal symptoms such as vomiting, diarrhea or a combination of both.
It’s important to distinguish between food allergies and sensitivities (intolerances). Unlike food allergies, food sensitivities are a gradual reaction to a specific ingredient such as chicken, milk, beef or wheat.
Symptoms can range from itchiness and chronic infections in the ear or foot to vomiting and diarrhea. True food allergies trigger an immune response, which can cause skin conditions such as facial swelling and hives.
Environmental Allergens
Atopic dermatitis or allergic reactions can stem from environmental allergens, including mold, pollen and dust. Seasonal allergies can also be frustrating, as they may only affect your dog during certain seasons or times of the year.
Like food allergies, look to your dog’s paws and ears for clues that they may suffer from environmental allergies. Also, quickly check the muzzle, around the eyes, wrists, underarms, ankles and between toes.
Signs & Symptoms of Skin Allergies in Dogs
As mentioned above, allergies in your dog's skin may have various symptoms. These can include:
- Excessive scratching
- Excessive licking
- Rubbing of ears or face
- Biting or chewing the skin
- Rubbing or scooting on surfaces
- Red, irritated or flakey skin
- Sores
- Hair loss
With severe skin allergies in dogs, you’re dealing with the discomfort and itching of the allergic reaction and the risk of secondary infection. As your dog scratches, licks and bites at his skin in reaction to the itching, there’s a possibility that yeast and bacterial infection can enter through sores. These may require treatment.
How to Treat Skin Allergies in Dogs
The best way to find out what’s irritating your dog’s system and causing their symptoms is to book an examination with your Turlock vet. Your vet can help you pinpoint the precise cause of your pet's skin allergies and offer effective treatments. In some cases, if your vet cannot determine the cause of your pup's skin allergy, your dog may be referred to a veterinary specialist for advanced allergy testing.
Following diagnosis, your vet can provide a custom treatment plan to help your dog heal. Treatment will depend on the cause and nature of your dog’s allergy, its location on the body, and other factors.
If your dog has skin allergies, their treatment may include an elimination or modified diet, laser treatments, non-steroidal allergy medications, medicated baths and other options.
Whether your dog’s skin condition results from an allergy, disease or something else, your vet can find the cause and provide effective treatment options to help your pet feel more comfortable again - and get you back to cuddling.
Note: The advice provided in this post is intended for informational purposes and does not constitute medical advice regarding pets. Please make an appointment with your vet to accurately diagnose your pet's condition.