The most common cause of skin problems in dogs is seasonal, or year round, allergies. Dogs have allergic reactions to many situations, ranging from environmental to food allergens. In order to help your dog with allergy issues, it must receive appropriate diagnosis and treatment.
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Symptoms
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Allergies are indicated by many behaviors. Dogs with allergies often chew on their feet or other areas of their bodies. This often results in red, sore, bald patches of irritated skin. In an attempt to relive an itch, your dog may rub the side of her face along the floor or furniture. Excess scratching, especially to the point of irritated skin, is often the sign of allergies. Hair loss or sore spots indicate an issue.
Recurring ear infections are a common sign of allergies. These occur as a result of excess earwax produced in response to the allergy. The earwax provides an area for bacteria and yeast to grow. Hives, or a rash, may also signal an exposure to allergens.
Each dog reacts differently to allergies and your dog may show some, or none, of these symptoms.
Diagnosis
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See your veterinarian for an accurate allergy diagnosis and treatment plan for your dog. Allergy diagnosis usually involves blood and skin scraping tests. Your veterinarian may also ask that you eliminate your dog's exposure to specific potential allergens to see if you notice a difference in symptoms.
Exposure
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Minimize the effects of potential allergens by limiting your dog's exposure to anything that causes a negative reaction.
Food allergies are often caused by the proteins, grains or dyes in the food. Switch your dog to a food with different main ingredients. Keep it on the new food for six weeks and note any changes in symptoms.
Environmental issues are often a result of exposure to mold, dust mites or fleas. Clean your home on a regular basis with natural, non chemical, cleaners. Do not allow the dog in the room while vacuuming or dusting. Wash its bedding regularly in hot water. Change filters in air conditioning units, the furnace and any air quality appliances. Avoid carpets. Hardwood floors are better for dogs with dust allergies.
Exposure to seasonal allergens, such as pollen, may affect your dog. Clean the dog's feet prior to allowing them in the house after trips outdoors. Keep them inside during high pollen counts or when you are mowing or raking. Mow the lawn on a regular basis.
Treatment
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Hypoallergenic shampoo can remove potential allergens from your dog's coat and may help soothe the skin.
Hydrocortisone creams can also relieve itching. You will need to insure that your dog does not lick the cream.
Supplement your dog's food with Omega-3 fatty acids. Your dog's coat will be shinier and healthier, and the fatty acids will help calm allergic reactions.
Antihistamines can help relieve allergy symptoms. Brands such as Benadryl, Atarax, Tavist and Chlor-Trimeton are commonly suggested as allergy relief for dogs. Antihistamines should not be administered without prior discussion with a veterinarian.
Steroids are usually prescribed for severe allergic reactions or when other methods have failed. Discuss a specific treatment and potential side effects with a veterinarian
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