Medications for Dogs With Allergies

Homeopathic Treatments

• Homeopathic remedies can assist in providing topical relief for dogs suffering from atopic dermatitis due to contact or inhalant allergies. Common skin irritations to soaps, shampoos, household cleaners, detergents, pests and grass cause relentless discomfort in dogs, resulting in ongoing itching and scratching that can lead to infections. Allergic dogs should be bathed regularly with hypoallergenic shampoos, soaps, detergents and natural oils to decrease inflammation and to rid the skin of any allergens. Topical powders containing herbs such as rue and rosemary can be effective in decreasing itchiness when dusted onto the dog's skin and bedding.

  Changes in diet may be necessary as dogs are frequently allergic to food additives and common dog food ingredients such as corn, grain, chicken and beef. Natural foods containing a simple protein and carbohydrate, as found in fish and sweet potato formulas, can improve skin condition and may eradicate food allergies altogether.

Antihistamines

• Antihistamines work to fight against the histamine release that occurs when dogs are exposed to an allergen. Prolonged use of an antihistamine may assist in combating seasonal allergies to pollen and mold spores. Topical dog allergy medications are applied directly to the affected area and surrounding skin. Medicated shampoos, ointments and sprays containing antihistamines can provide temporary relief of symptoms, but will not typically rid a dog of severe allergies and reactions. Over-the-counter oral antihistamines such as Benadryl and Chlor-Trimeton can be given to dogs upon veterinarian recommendation. Prescription antihistamine shampoos, salves and pills are available to treat ongoing dog allergy cases. The effects of antihistamines can be enhanced with fatty acid supplements that reduce inflammation and improve skin resistance.

Steroid Medications

• Dogs suffering from severe allergies may benefit from occasional steroid treatments that provide extended relief. Cortisone shots and oral steroids can be prescribed to inhibit inflammations causing allergic reactions. Anti-inflammatory dog allergy medications do not prevent the onset of allergies, but can help reduce the degree of discomfort caused by reactions. Treating allergies with steroids can result in harmful side effects such as weight gain, increased thirst, mood changes and hormone fluctuations in dogs. Dog behavior should be monitored and steroid medications limited to short treatment durations.

Reducing Pest Allergens

• Common dog allergies to pests can result in persistent itching and biting due to hypersensitivity to pest saliva. Regular grooming with flea combs and mat brushes can reduce the risks of infestations. Medicated flea and tick collars and monthly preventative applications of Frontline, Advantage or Advantix to the dog's back can fend off pest infiltration and reactive biting. Increasing the air quality of a house by using filters, cleaning air ducts and vacuuming regularly can decrease dust mites and pests infesting in carpets, furniture and dog bedding.

Allergy Shots

• Allergy shots are a form of ongoing treatment for inhalant allergies that are not seasonally specific. This form of dog allergy medication puts tiny amounts of antigens into a dog's system through regular injections in an effort to hyposensitize the dog to allergens. Allergy shots work to reprogram the immune system for prolonged relief and possible elimination of allergic reactions to year-round triggers.