Allergies are fairly common in dogs. Unlike humans, who experience nasal symptoms with allergies, dogs develop skin problems. Dogs can have inhalant allergies, food allergies or flea allergies. Ear infections can also be caused by allergies. While canine allergies can be managed, they cannot be cured. There are a number of treatments available, each with advantages and disadvantages.
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Allergens
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Dogs may have allergies to pollens, molds and dust mites. If a dog only has symptoms during certain seasons, such as spring or fall, he may have pollen allergies. Year-round allergies may be dust or mold. Some dogs will be allergic to more than one material.
Allergy symptoms
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Symptoms include biting, scratching, constant chewing at feet and licking. Most itching will be on the feet, armpits, flanks and groin. Your dog may rub his face on the carpet, on walls or on furniture. Skin may get thick, greasy and smelly. Chronic ear infections are common and ear flaps may be red or hot. The dog may develop hot spots from chewing, which may become infected.
Treatments
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For inhalant allergies, prevention is difficult. Owners can try to keep dogs away from allergens if the allergens are known. For molds, use a dehumidifier or put charcoal on top of the dirt in house plants. Keep the house as dust-free as possible and use an air cleaner. Keep windows closed.
You can also try symptomatic therapy, which include cool baths, Epsom salts or medicated shampoos. Sprays and ointments are available. Dermacool uses witch hazel and is safe. Corticosteroids help lessen itching by reducing inflammation. These substances also affect other organs in the body. Steroids should not be used long term because of this. This is best as a last resort or if the allergy season is short. Side effects, such as increased appetite and thirst, and urination and behavioral changes are common. Long-term steroid use can cause diabetes, increased chance of seizures and resistance to infection.Antihistamines are fairly safe when used on dogs and about a third of dog owners say they have worked on their pet. Just as the drug causes drowsiness in humans, it has the same effect on dogs. Try more than one antihistamine before giving up on this course. Work with your vet to determine the correct dosage for your dog.
Omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids are also worth a try. These anti-inflammatory agents are safe and have very few, if any, side effects. Omega-3 acids are found in fish oils, such as cod. Omega-6 fatty acids come from plants that contain gamma-linolenic acids. These help reduce skin sores but don't work as well on itching.
Immunotherapy is another option. Allergy shots are safe and have been successful. The downside is they work slowly: it can take up to a year before improvement is noticed. Also, the allergy shots must be given consistently and can be expensive.
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