Golden retrievers are one of a number of dog breeds susceptible to developing skin allergies during their lifetime. The four main causes that can set off a reaction are fleas, food, airborne objects such as pollen and chemical sensitivities. Like humans who have allergies, the condition may never be cured, only monitored.
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Causes
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A flea allergy is caused by the flea's saliva. It is the most common skin allergy in dogs. Food allergy triggers are usually dog specific, but most of them contain a high protein factor such as meat, dairy and poultry. An airborne allergy is an inherited condition. It starts off being seasonal and progresses with age. Various chemicals, anything from carpet cleaner, feathers and mites, may set off your golden retriever.
Symptoms
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Dogs will scratch, bite, rub and lick at various areas of the body when affected. For flea allergies, this is usually concentrated around the underbelly, the rump and tail. Food, airborne and chemical allergies may cause sneezing. The golden retriever's constant scratching will be focused on the paws and the face. Bacteria and fungus may take advantage of open wounds and be present as a secondary condition. Other symptoms include hair loss and red bumps, hard scabs and lesions.
Diagnosis
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Observation is used to diagnose an allergy, especially where conditions have similar symptoms. One example is airborne and food allergies, where both conditions cause the dog to scratch the skin around the paws and face. Airborne allergies become apparent at the puppy stage, whereas food allergies turn up at any age. Aside from observation, there are tests performed to rule out other diseases, including analyzing skin samples, testing for thyroid deficiencies and testing for fungal or bacterial infections. For food and chemical allergies, the dog would go through a process of elimination.
Prevention
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Conditions such as airborne or skins allergies are inherited and therefore unavoidable. According to Go Pets America, the golden retriever is one of several breeds with a predisposition to skin allergies. However, the chances of a golden retriever becoming sensitive to flea saliva are reduced if there are fewer fleas in its growing environment. Proper nutrition also helps strengthen the immune system. Supplements such as fatty acids relieve inflammation and maintain the health of the coat.
Solution
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Once a cause is identified, solutions usually involve avoidance. A veterinarian may try to gradually desensitize the golden retriever to chemical triggers. There are allergy drugs that are used to control the situation. To reduce the discomfort, bathe your golden retriever regularly using oatmeal to soothe itchiness.
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