Cures for Skin Allergies in Pug Dogs

Pugs are friendly, energetic, and loads of fun. With their adorable faces and curly tails, pugs are a popular breed for many pet lovers. Despite this popularity, pugs do have their own set of health problems, however, with allergies topping the list. While some have allergies that are hard to control, many pugs find relief with a few easy methods.

  1. Antihistamines

    • If your pug dog is scratching or has dry skin, allergies may be to blame. Many pugs have atopy, or inhalant allergies, some of which occur at certain times of the year. These types can usually be resolved with the use of antihistamines. There are many antihistamines from which to choose--finding the right one depends on your dog and determining his particular allergy. Some dogs find relief from over-the-counter drugs, such as Benadryl and Claritin. Others need to use prescription antihistamines that come from the veterinarian. It's fine to try the non-prescription varieties first, but you'll need to check with your pug's vet to determine the correct dosage.

    Fatty Acid Supplements

    • Omega-3 fatty acid supplements can be extremely helpful with your pug's allergies. These supplements provide essential oils to your pug's skin and coat to keep it healthy and irritant-free. Omega-3s also provide a certain amount of anti-inflammatory properties that can help with skin irritation. These supplements can be purchased from your veterinarian's office or the pet store in capsule form. You can also try giving him or her fish or flaxseed oil as well.

    Immunotherapy

    • Immunotherapy, or giving allergy shots, is probably the most effective--and the most costly--treatment in pug allergies. Blood tests are can be run to diagnose the cause of your dog's allergy. A serum is then made specifically for your pet to help his or her body fight those particular allergens. This method requires dedication from pet owners in giving the shots on set schedules.

    Hypoallergenic Diets

    • Some pugs' allergies can be caused by their food. If your pug is allergic to a component of the food he is eating, it could be causing his flare-ups. You can administer an elimination diet, in which you remove certain parts of the diet to see if your pet reacts. You can also try feeding him a food made specifically for dogs with allergies, such as Hill's Z/D. These foods may be helpful in alleviating some of the symptoms of your pug's allergies.