Labrador Allergies

Allergy Definition

• Your Labrador develops a skin allergy when his immune system overreacts to an allergen. This reaction causes his body to produce a protein called "IgE" (immunoglobulin E). When these proteins attach themselves to tissue mast cells located in his skin, irritating chemicals (e.g., histamine) are released. Thus, these chemicals are responsible for your Labrador's allergy symptoms. Labradors and certain other breeds (e.g. bull terrier, schnauzer, pug, German Shepherd and beagle) are more prone to experience skin allergies because they produce excessive amounts of IgE compared to other breeds.

Ear Infections

• Besides skin-related allergy symptoms, Labradors, in particular, have a breed predisposition to having ear infections as a result of an allergy. Ear infections can be very painful and, if left untreated, can cause hearing loss. Common signs of ear infections are rubbing of the ear on furniture or the floor, constant head shaking and making whimpering noises. If your Labrador's ear is red inside and emits an odor, it is important to take him to the veterinarian as soon as possible. It is best not to clean the ear yourself because you may push the infection deeper into the ear or damage his eardrum. The best way to avoid ear infections caused by allergies is to avoid the allergen. For example, if your Labrador is allergic to pollen, you should try to keep him indoors early in the morning and early in the evening.

Atopy

• Atopy (inhalation) allergies are the most common cause of Labrador allergies. Your Labrador may develop an allergy toward such substances as tree pollens, weed pollens, grass pollens, dust mites and mold. The following are treatment examples your veterinarian may prescribe to your Labrador: antihistamines (e.g., Benadryl), omega-3 fatty acids, immunotherapy allergy shots, hypoallergenic shampoos and conditioners or low dosages of steroids (e.g., prednisone).

Flea Allergies

• Flea allergies are another common cause of Labrador skin allergies. Dogs generally are not allergic to the flea itself, but to the saliva that enters their body when a flea bites them. The best treatment method is to follow a strict flea control program. Popular medications include Frontline and Advantage, in which you apply a topical ointment to the back of your Labrador's neck once a month.

Food Allergies

• Food allergies are responsible for about 10 percent of all allergies found in in all dog breeds. Common food ingredients that might cause an allergic reaction in your Labrador are beef, chicken, fish, milk, corn and soy. The best form of treatment is to conduct an elimination diet. For 12 weeks, give him a homemade diet of a protein and a carbohydrate he has never had (e.g., rabbit and rice). Each week, introduce one food ingredient at a time and look for any allergic reactions until you have found the food ingredient causing his allergy symptoms.