If your dog suffers from allergic dermatitis, you know how painful and frustrating it can be. In this blog post, we’ll discuss the most common causes of allergic dermatitis in dogs, as well as some tips on how to manage the symptoms.
About Allergic Dermatitis:
One of the most common skin irritations in dogs and cats is allergic dermatitis. When a dog or cat has “hot spots,” or allergic dermatitis, also called atopic dermatitis, the skin barrier is damaged. This causes their skin to become inflamed, red, dry, bumpy and itchy.
Atopic dermatitis is an itchy skin disease in dogs and cats. In this condition, an allergic reaction occurs when an animal inhales airborne substances (pollen, house dust) or eats something to which they are sensitive. An allergic reaction causes the animal to rub, lick, bite or scratch. Unlike humans, your dog or cat will not sneeze very often, but they will itch.
What Causes Allergic Dermatitis in Dogs?
All allergic dermatitis is caused by an allergic reaction to specific allergens in the dog’s environment. However, these allergens can vary from dog to dog because each animal has its own genetic makeup and allergic reactions to certain substances. Common allergens that cause allergic dermatitis in dogs include pollens from trees, grasses or grasses, and dust mites.
What are the most common dog breeds that suffer from Allergic Dermatitis?
In dogs, several breeds are known to be prone to allergic dermatitis (atopic dermatitis) and include:
- Labrador retrievers
- Golden retrieve
- West Highland White Terrier
- Boxer
- German shepherd
- American Cocker Spaniel
- Bichon Frize
- French Bulldog
Diagnosis of Common Allergies in Dogs:
If your dog is suffering from allergic dermatitis, one of the following allergies may be the cause:
1. Food allergies:
Even if your dog has been eating the same brand of food for months, he can suddenly develop an allergy to it. It doesn’t matter if their food is the cheapest brand available or the highest quality, they can develop symptoms if they are allergic to any of the ingredients in their food. However, premium dog foods sometimes do not contain as many filler ingredients, which can be a source of allergies.
2. Flea allergy:
When dogs have fleas and develop allergies, they are actually allergic to the proteins in the flea’s saliva and not the fleas themselves. In fact, dogs that are only occasionally exposed to fleas are more likely to develop symptoms than dogs that are constantly exposed to these external parasites.
3. Contact and inhalation allergy:
Just like people, dogs can be allergic to substances such as mold, pollen, trees, weeds and dust mites. By paying close attention to the development of symptoms, you can predict what your dog may be allergic to. If your dog’s symptoms are seasonal, pollen may be the culprit, and if your dog’s symptoms are year-round, they may have a mold allergy.
4. Staphylococcus hypersensitivity:
Dogs develop bacterial hypersensitivity when their immune system overreacts to the common Staphylococcus (Staph) bacteria on their skin. And, when dogs have bacterial hypersensitivity, unique microscopic changes occur in the blood vessels of their skin. Your doctor can diagnose the condition with a bacterial culture and by examining a biopsy sample.
“Dogs that already have other conditions such as hypothyroidism, respiratory allergies, and/or flea allergies are more likely to develop bacterial hypersensitivity.”
Diagnosis of Dogs with Allergic Dermatitis:
The most reliable way to diagnose allergic dogs is to perform allergy tests, and there are several types of these tests available. The most common is a blood test that looks for antigen-positive antibodies in the dog’s blood.
“There is also an intradermal skin test, in which a section of the dog’s skin is shaved to inject a small amount of antigen. After a certain period, the skin is examined to identify the offending allergy due to a small raised reaction.”
Once your dog’s allergies are diagnosed, your vet will begin developing a treatment plan.
Treatment of Allergic Dermatitis in Dogs:
The specific treatment used for your dog’s allergies will be determined by the specific allergen causing their symptoms. Your dog’s treatment may include one or more of the following:
Immunotherapy (hyposensitization) may also be called allergy shots. Hypersensitivity injections are made in a laboratory specifically for your dog’s specific allergies and are given to your dog on a regular basis (the frequency depends on your dog’s specific case). Although this method is often highly successful, it may take 6 to 12 months to see any noticeable improvement.
“Medicated baths with shampoos containing antimicrobial and antifungal agents, as well as other ingredients, can help soothe a dog’s injured skin, reduce inflammation, and remove allergens.”
Flea control systems can help prevent and get rid of fleas. To prevent fleas from thriving on your pet, your vet may recommend giving your dog flea medication.
“Antihistamines can help control your dog’s symptoms, however, they don’t always work. On the other hand, if antihistamines are effective, they can be a cheaper option that usually has little risk of side effects.”
A hypoallergenic diet can either remove, replace, or reduce the food ingredients your dog is allergic to.
Corticosteroids and immunosuppressive agents should only be used as a last resort to manage a dog’s itching and scratching when the allergy season is short or to relieve extreme discomfort (and in small doses).
“This method can cause side effects such as increased urination, increased thirst and appetite, jaundiced skin, and behavioral changes. Long-term use of this method may result in conditions such as diabetes or decreased resistance to infection.”
Controlling your dog’s environment can be the best way to manage your dog’s allergies if you know the allergens and are able to remove them or effectively reduce your dog’s exposure. Even if your pooch is on other medications, it’s still best to minimize their exposure to allergens if possible.
How long does it take for Dog Dermatitis to heal?
Your vet will give your pet injections of the allergens they are sensitive to. This reduces itching in 60-80% of dogs, but it can take about 6 months to a year to see improvement. Your veterinarian may prescribe immunomodulatory medications.
How do you treat Dog Skin Allergies?
The cause and nature of your dog’s allergy, its location on the body and other factors will determine the best treatment for your pet. Treatment for skin allergies in dogs may include injections, nonsteroidal medications, medicated baths, laser treatments, and other options.
How can I treat my dog’s flea allergy dermatitis at home?
In mild cases, you can treat your dog with Benadryl at home to prevent allergic reactions and relieve itching. Always check with your veterinarian for dosage instructions and make sure this medication is safe for your pet.
What can I feed my dog with allergic dermatitis?
- Royal Canyon Adult Ultamino Dry Dog Food
- Hill’s Prescription Dose z/d Skin/Dose Sensitization.
- Blue Buffalo True Solutions Perfect Skin & Coat.
- Blue Buffalo Natural Veterinary Diet NP Novel Protein Alligator.
- JustFoodForDogs Venison & Squash.
- Wellness Simple Limited Ingredient Diet Lamb & Oatmeal.
Can I apply Vaseline to my Dog’s Dermatitis?
Neosporin, hydrocortisone, and Vaseline should not be used as dogs will lick the area. The best way to treat and heal a hot spot is to: Trim the area around the hot spot with dog clippers. This will help the area not spread through the hair to other areas and will help the skin to breathe and dry.
What foods should Dogs with Skin Allergies avoid?
It is often caused by food sensitivities in dogs, animal proteins or plant-based ingredients in the diet. Beef, corn, milk and wheat are the most problematic ingredients. It may seem counterintuitive, but food allergy symptoms can take a long time to appear.
What does Dog Dermatitis look like?
Scratching at their feet, sides, ears, armpits, or groin, causing hair to fall out in patches or patches and red and thickened skin. The skin itself can be dry and raw or oily, depending on the dog. Dogs can also rub their face on the carpet. Earlobes may be red and warm.