Did You Know Dogs Can GET Allergies?

Of course you know that many humans have allergies that are caused by animals, especially cats and dogs.  But did you know that dogs can have allergies too?  You may notice your dog sneezing, but this usually is not a sign of allergies.  Sneezes can be caused by smells, or to clear out the nasal passage if something is up there that should not be!  Dog allergy symptoms usually show themselves as skin problems.  Because skin problems can be caused by a variety of ailments, you may not even realize that a skin problem is being caused by allergies.

Dog allergies can be caused by a number of triggers.  One of the most common allergens is flea  bites.  When fleas bite, they leave a protein on dog’ skin which many dogs are allergic to.  The best way to prevent flea allergies is to obviously prevent flea bites. Luckily there are plenty of options for long term flea control.

Another dog allergen is food.  For example, dome dogs are allergic to beef or corn.  Besides symptoms like vomiting and diarrhea, dogs will also have itchy skin.  If you notice skin problems in your dog soon after switching his food, this could be the culprit of his allergies.  Environmental triggers like pollen and dust can also cause allergic reactions in dogs.  If the dog inhales something in the environment that causes an allergic reaction, your dog will have itchy skin, particularly in the front half of his body.

If you and your vet have decided that your dog’s skin problems are being caused by allergies, there are a  variety of ways you can prevent itching and help your pet’s skin heal.  For itching, your first line of defense should be Allergy and Itch Relief Shampoo 16 oz., shown to the right.  This vet’s best formula contains oatmeal, Tea Tree Oil, and D’Limonene, and will relieve itching and remove active allergens on your dog’s skin.

Another way to soothe skin problems resulting from pollen allergens or flea bites is to give your dog Seasonal Allergy Relief for Dogs – 60 Tablets.  This allergy relief comes in pill form and contains a beneficial combination of antioxidants.  It also contains Nettle Leaf, which works as an antihistamine.  It is for use in dogs only, and should not be used in pregnant dogs or dogs who will be used for breeding.