Dog allergies are fairly common and impossible to cure. There are many options for treatment, however, depending on what kind of allergy a dog has. Inhalant allergies are the most common, while food and contact allergies are rarer. If your dog itches incessantly, develops a red rash, repeated ear infections and chews and licks at his paws, armpits and belly, he most likely suffers from an allergy.
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Inhalant Allergies
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Inhalant allergies, or atopy, are a common cause of allergies in dogs. Atopy causes severe itching, licking and chewing of the paws, underarms, underbelly and ears. Ear infections may be common. Your vet can do a blood test to determine what's causing the allergies. Common allergens are dust and dust mites, pollens and mold.
Topical therapies include shampoos and anti-itch ointments. Weekly or twice weekly shampoos may help. Hydrocortisone creams can help but should be used in moderation.
Omega-3 fatty acids, derived from fish oil, can be tried, though they don't work in every dog. It will take several weeks to see any results. The acids tend to work well with other therapies. Biotin, a supplemental powder, may help, especially if used with the acids.
Antihistamines show a 30 percent rate of effectiveness, but that percentage goes up when combined with fatty acids and avoiding allergens. You may have to try several before you find one that works. There are some side effects, such as drowsiness and dry mouth. See your vet for the proper dosage.
Immunotherapy is used when allergens cannot be avoided, symptoms are observed for more than five or six months of the year and other therapies haven't worked. This therapy is designed to desensitize the dog to allergens. The dog must have skin tests first. Once the allergens have been determined, an injection is made for the dog. Shots may be weekly or monthly. It has a high success rate but is time-consuming.
Steroids are generally considered a last resort because of side effects, including damage to internal organs such as the liver. If used correctly, the side effects can be lessened. However, steroids can be very effective in stopping the inflammation that can cause excessive itching.
Food Allergies
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Very few dogs have actual food allergies. The culprit may be a protein source in his food or the grains, such as corn, soy or wheat. Switch to a food with a different protein source or a different grain content. Try the new food for six weeks to see if there is any improvement. Keep trying different foods until you find out what causes the dog to react. Mold may also be an issue, as molds grow on wheat, corn and peanut hulls, which are used in pet food.
Contact Allergies
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These allergies are very uncommon. A veterinarian can find out if your dog has one with a scratch test. Avoid the allergen and use shampoos, fatty acids and biotin to help with itching.
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