How to Tell if Your Dog has Allergies

Could your dog’s occasional itching and sneezing be a tell-tell sign of allergies? Continue reading to learn how to spot signs of occasional or seasonal allergies in dogs, with the help of your veterinarian.

No. 1: Watch for common signs of allergies in dogs.

There are many everyday signs your dog has allergies that can easily go unnoticed. The next time your pup starts shaking his adorable, floppy ears from side-to-side, you may begin to wonder if it could be something more. Key signs to watch for include chewing, biting, excessive licking, or scratching; foot chewing; hair loss; body odor; frequent rolling; changes in the skin (sores or darkened color); and recurrent ear problems (head shaking, scratching at ears, ear discharge). Visit with your veterinarian if your dog shows these signs. It’s possible your veterinarian may prescribe your dog prescription allergy treatment.

No 2: Beware the many types of allergies in dogs.

How many people do you know who have a peanut allergy (food allergy) or have a tough time with seasonal allergies when the pollen counts begin to rise (environmental allergy)? There is a reason sneeze guards are placed over salad bars. OK, many reasons, but we digress... So, just like in humans, there are a number of allergens that can cause similar reactions in dogs, including:

Fleas are the most common cause of allergies and dog itch. If your dog is sensitive to flea bites, it takes only one bite to set off the itch cycle, so before anything, check your pet to make sure you are not dealing with a flea problem. Learn more about flea and tick control.

No. 3: Know there are allergy meds for dogs available to help.

Prescription allergy medicine for dogs uniquely targets the sources of their allergies. Should your dog be diagnosed with allergies from your veterinarian, you can offer them relief through effective allergy prescription medications.

Prescription dog allergy medicine is available to help, including trusted medications like Apoquel, which can relieve your pet’s itch within as few as four hours, and Atopica, which is also available as generic Cyclosporine Capsules. Learn how to order prescription pet medicine online.

In addition to allergy medications, your pet will also appreciate a soothing bath with oatmeal shampoo for extra relief. From the inside and out, you can help your dog with allergies. There are even prescription dog food formulas tailored to reduce adverse food reaction, such as Purina Pro Plan Veterinary Diets HA Hydrolyzed canine formula, available in chicken or vegetarian.

Continue learning with this extensive FAQ article about allergies in dogs and cats. Also, learn how allergies can even affect your dog’s behavior.