Dogs with Allergies

Allergies are an over reaction of the body to harmless substances. In dogs common signs include itching and skin irritation that presents as redness, skin or ear infections and hair loss.American College of Veterinary Dermatology Library: Itching and Allergy in Dogs

Flea allergies are a common allergy in dogs. If a dog suffers from flea allergies the it is important that it becomes completely flea free.American College of Veterinary Dermatology Library: Itching and Allergy in Dogs

Food allergies are another common allergy. Some ingredients that commonly cause an allergic reactions include: corn, wheat, soy, beef, chicken, pork, preservatives or dyes. Diagnosing a food allergy involves a strict diet change for several weeks and observation as the old diet is reintroduced.American College of Veterinary Dermatology Library: Itching and Allergy in Dogs

Atopic dermatitis is an inherited tendency to be more sensitivity to certain environmental substances such as pollen, dust mites and mold spores.American College of Veterinary Dermatology Library: Itching and Allergy in Dogs

To determine what the dog is allergic too, skin tests are often done. Blood testing can be done as well but it lacks the accuracy skin tests have.Animal Allergy and Dermatology Clinic: Intradermal Allergy Skin Testing

Skin tests are performed by clipping the hair from a region on the pet's body and making allergen injections into the skin. The skin will react within several minutes of the injection. An allergic reaction looks like a small, red bump and determines sensitivity to an injected allergen.Animal Allergy and Dermatology Clinic: Intradermal Allergy Skin Testing

The content in this page is not a substitute for professional medical advice. If you think your dog has allergies, please consult your veterinarian.

• American Veterinary Medical Association (AVMA): Flea Allergy Dermatitis in Dogs | Canine Allergies

• Fox News: Does Your Pet Have an Allergy? (2007)

• Yankee Golden Retriever Rescue: Allergies

• National Post: "Arf! Dillen"

• Yahoo! Answers: Blood Test for Dog Allergies

• Google Blog: Dogs with Allergies

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