Allergy in Dogs: do You Know the Signs and Treatments?

a lovely dog is relaxing in the forest



Allergic reactions in dogs are a very common phenomenon. Different breeds and ages may have an effect on the allergic symptoms. On the one hand, with the change of people's lifestyle, the environments that dogs are exposed to have become more complex. Many canines are inclined to respiratory allergic symptoms such as sneezing and coughing during the spring when pollen is floating. On the other hand, food allergies are not unusual in dogs. Some owners may find that after feeding their dogs new foods, the dogs may manifest symptoms such as vomiting, diarrhea, and itchy skin. In addition, contact allergies are common too. It may bring about an allergic reaction. Due to the diverse causes of allergies in dogs and the difficulty of completely avoiding exposure to allergens, allergic phenomena in dogs are very common in daily life.

 

 

I、The common causes that trigger allergic reactions of dogs

lovely dogs need companions too

i、Food allergies


Common allergenic foods: Foods such as beef, chicken, dairy products, grains, etc, may cause allergies in dogs.
Methods for determining food allergies: Observing the dog's reaction after eating, such as a food elimination test.


ii、Environmental allergies


Pollen: Pollen in different seasons can become an allergen for dogs. In spring, trees blossom and a large amount of pollen from trees such as poplars and willows is released. When dogs are outdoors, pollen may float in their fur and contact with the skin and eyes, then enter the respiratory tract. When this condition is recognized by the immune system, it triggers a reaction, which can cause red and watery eyes, frequent tearing, sneezing, and itchy red rashes on the skin. In summer, pollen from herbaceous plants such as green bristlegrass and ragweed is rampant, and the concentration of pollen in the air is high. When dogs play on the grass, they are easily exposed to a large amount of pollen. Inhaled pollen will irritates the respiratory mucosa. Pollen that absorbed on the skin can also cause an allergic reaction. In autumn, some weeds are still blooming and releasing pollen. Moreover, the weather changes greatly in autumn, and the dog's immune system may be more sensitive. When exposed to this pollen, the dog's immune system is easily over-reactive, which aggravates the allergic reaction and makes dogs suffer from pain.


Dust and dust mites: Dust contains various components such as skin flakes, fibers, and tiny particles like dust. When a dog inhales dust, the allergens in it will stimulate the dog's nasal cavity and respiratory tract mucosa. Dust mites can cause allergies in dogs too. These tiny creatures are often found in household environments such as bedding, carpets, and upholstered furniture. When a dog is exposed to dust mites. The immune system will recognize dust and dust mites as external threats so as to trigger an immune response, resulting in symptoms such as sneezing, runny nose, and coughing. When dust and dust mites fall on a dog's skin, they will interfere with the normal barrier function of the skin, and the immune cells of the skin will react to them, leading to skin itching, redness, or papules. If the dog scratches, it may also cause skin damage and secondary infection. Moreover, when dust and dust mites are abundantly present in the dog's environment, prolonged contact will continuously stimulate the dog's body, aggravate allergic symptoms, and affect the dog's health and quality of life.


Insect bites: When insects (such as fleas, mosquitoes, etc.) bite dogs, they will inject saliva containing special proteins into the dog's skin. The dog's immune system will regard these foreign proteins as a threat and thus initiate an immune reaction. First, the bitten area will become red and swollen. This is because the body's defense mechanism causes blood to flow to this area. At the same time, dogs will feel extremely itchy and then scratch or lick all the time, which may lead to skin damage. As the immune reaction continues, dogs may have rash symptoms appear such as papules and erythema at and around the bite sites. In severe cases, it may induce a systemic allergic reaction, such as shortness of breath and rashes on other parts of the body, causing great harm to the dog's health.


iii、Contact allergies


Materials of dog bedding: If the materials of dog beds and mattresses are inappropriate, they can set off allergies in dogs. For some synthetic materials, like polyester fiber, the chemical substances added during the production process, such as dyes and flame retardants, can inflame the dog's skin. When dogs touch them for a long time, their skin may become itchy and develop erythema, and dogs will scratch frequently. For some natural fiber materials, such as wool, of which the protein components may be recognized as foreign substances by the dog's immune system. After dogs touch it, the immune system activates defense and gives rise to inflammation , resulting in symptoms such as rashes and hair loss, contributing to the dog's health and comfort.


Collars and leashes: Leather collars and leashes may lead to allergies in dogs, because the chemical tanning materials are used in the processing, such as chrome salts. When your pet contacts these substances, it can lead to contact dermatitis with symptoms like redness, itching, and rashes. Nylon ones can also be a problem. Nylon itself may stimulate the dog's skin, and the additives during production, like plasticizers, can set off some allergic reactions in dogs as well.
Cleaning products and chemicals: Cleaning products and chemicals can cause allergies in dogs in several ways. Shampoos for dogs may contain ingredients like fragrances, preservatives or surfactants. For example, shampoos with sulfate - based surfactants can do harm to the skin's barrier function of dogs, making the skin more vulnerable to allergens. After using such shampoos, dogs may suffer from itchy, dry and flaky skin. Disinfectants used in the household environment are also potential threats. If dogs are subject to the residues of disinfectants that have not fully evaporated, they can aggravate the dog's skin or respiratory tract. Disinfectants containing sodium hypochlorite, for instance, may cause redness, itching of the dog's skin or allergic symptoms in the respiratory tract such as coughing and sneezing.



II、The allergic symptoms shown on puppies

the lovely dog is looking in the distance

 


i、Skin allergies


Skin allergies in dogs can manifest in a variety of ways, causing significant discomfort and distress to our furry friends.

 

One of the most prominent symptoms is itching. It can range from mild to severe, driving the dog to scratch, lick, or chew at the affected areas incessantly. This compulsive behavior often targets specific body parts like the belly, ears, paws, or around the tail. The constant scratching can lead to visible abrasions, making the skin more vulnerable to secondary infections.

Redness and inflammation are also typical. The skin may take on a rosy or even a more intense, angry - looking hue. This is a result of the body's immune response, as blood vessels dilate in the affected area. Swelling might be accompanied with the redness, especially around the face, paws, or joints. In some cases, the swelling can be so severe that it affects the dog's ability to move or function normally.

Another common manifestation is the appearance of rashes or hives. These can be small, raised bumps or larger, flat patches that are either pink, red, or even purple in color. They can be distributed randomly across the body or concentrated in specific regions.


Hair loss is another tell - tale sign. The dog may start losing fur in patches, which can be particularly noticeable in areas where the allergic reaction is most intense. The remaining hair may also become dry, brittle, and lackluster. Moreover, the skin might develop a scaly or crusty texture, with flakes of dead skin being visible. All these symptoms not only have an influence on the dog's physical well - being but can also cause emotional stress as they struggle with the discomfort.


ii、Digestive system


When dogs suffer from allergies that impact the digestive system, a series of complex and distressing symptoms can occur.


1、Vomiting


It may start with the dog regurgitating small amounts of food shortly after eating. As the allergic reaction progresses, the frequency and intensity of vomiting can increase. The vomit may contain not only partially digested food but also bile, which appears as a yellowish - green, bitter - smelling fluid. In some severe cases, the dog might vomit blood - tinged material, indicating possible irritation or damage to the stomach lining.


2、Diarrhea


Dog’s excrement can vary in consistency, from slightly loose to completely watery. There may be an unpleasant odor associated with the diarrhea, which is often a result of the abnormal digestion and absorption processes caused by the allergic reaction. Mucus can be present in the stools, giving them a slimy appearance. This mucus is the body's attempt to protect the intestinal lining from further irritation. Sometimes, the diarrhea can be accompanied by a sense of urgency, causing the dog to have little control over defecation and may even lead to accidents indoors.


3、Abdominal pain


The dog may become restless, pacing back and forth or unable to find a comfortable position. When the abdomen is gently palpated, the dog may whine, growl, or show signs of discomfort. They may also adopt a hunched posture, with their back arched and abdomen tucked in, as this position provides some relief from the pain within the digestive organs. This pain can be caused by inflammation of the stomach, intestines, or other related structures.

 

4、Loss of appetite


. The dog may turn away from its favorite food, showing no interest in eating. This lack of food intake can lead to weight loss over time, as the body is deprived of the necessary nutrients. In severe and long-term cases, the dog may become weak and lethargic, with a visible decline in overall health due to the combined effects of the digestive symptoms caused by the allergy.


iii、Respiratory system


When dogs experience allergic reactions affecting the respiratory system, a series of symptoms can be noticed.


1、Sneezing


The dog may have sudden, repeated bouts of sneezing, sometimes several times in a row. This is the body's attempt to expel the allergens that have entered the nasal passages. The sneezes can be forceful and may be accompanied by a clear nasal discharge at first. As the allergic reaction progresses, the nasal discharge may become thicker and more copious, changing from clear to a cloudy or even slightly yellowish color.


2、Coughing


Coughing is another common symptom. It can range from a mild, dry cough to a more severe, hacking cough. The cough may be sporadic at first but can worsen over time. In some cases, the dog may cough to clear something from its throat. This cough can be triggered by the irritation of the airways result from the presence of allergens. If the allergic reaction is severe, the coughing may be continuous and cause significant harm to the dog.


3、Wheezing


Your pet will make a high - pitched, whistling sound when it breathes. This indicates that the airways have become narrowed, either on account of inflammation or the constriction of the smooth muscles in the bronchial tubes. The wheezing sound can be quite loud and may be audible even from a short distance. It often shows that the allergic reaction has affected the lower respiratory tract.


4、shortness of breath


Dogs with respiratory allergies may also experience shortness of breath. They may pant more than usual, even when at rest or after only minimal physical activity. The normal breathing pattern may be disrupted, with the dog taking shallower and more rapid breaths. In severe cases, the dog may have difficulty breathing, with visible signs of pain such as an open - mouthed breathing, flared nostrils, and an anxious expression. This can be a life - threatening situation if not promptly addressed, as it indicates that the airways are severely compromised by the allergic reaction.


III、Methods of diagnosis for dog’s allergy

the lovely dog is jumping



i、Medical history - taking and symptom observation


Veterinarians play a crucial role in diagnosing allergies in dogs through a combination of history - taking and symptom observation. When taking the history, they will ask the owner detailed questions. They inquire about the dog's diet, whether there have been any recent changes in the type of food or treats, as new ingredients could potentially trigger an allergic reaction. Information about the environment is also vital. Vets want to know if the dog has been exposed to new cleaning products, different bedding materials, or if there have been any changes in the household, such as new furniture or plants. They also ask about the frequency and nature of any previous allergic - like symptoms. During symptom observation, vets carefully examine the dog. They look for signs of itching, such as excessive scratching, biting, or licking of certain body parts. If the skin is red, inflamed, or has rashes, hives, or some areas of hair fall out, these are strong indications of a possible allergic reaction. In terms of the respiratory system, they note if the dog is sneezing, coughing, wheezing, or having difficulty breathing. Any discharge from the nose or eyes is also carefully considered. In the digestive system, symptoms like vomiting, diarrhea, or loss of appetite are taken into account. By integrating the details from the history - taking and the observed symptoms, vets can make an initial assessment of whether the dog is suffering from an allergy and determine the next steps for further diagnosis and treatment.


ii、Skin testing


Skin testing is a significant diagnostic method for determining whether a dog has allergies. First, the vets will prepare the testing area, usually on the dog's side or abdomen where the skin is relatively hairless and easy to observe. The most common type of skin test is the intradermal test. The vet carefully injects small amounts of various common allergens, such as different types of pollen, dust mites, certain food proteins, and common mold spores, just beneath the skin surface. Another approach could be the patch test, where small patches containing potential allergens are applied to the skin. After the application of the allergens, the dog is then monitored closely. If the dog is allergic to any of the substances, within a specific period, usually 15 to 20 minutes for the intradermal test and over a few hours for the patch test, there will be visible reactions. The skin may become red, swollen, and itchy. In some cases, small bumps or hives may form. Intensity of these reactions help the vets to identify the specific allergens that the dog is sensitive to, thus enabling an accurate diagnosis of the allergic condition.


For more supplement recommendations, please click here.

Appearance: The product comes in the form of chewable tablets with a natural duck flavor to increase the palatability for dogs.  Size: 1.5 grams per tablet, 90 tablets in each bottle, a total of 135 g (4.76 oz).  Ingredients and Efficacy: Noora Allergy Support Health Supplement contains Qrill™Pet (Krill Meal), Salmon Oil, Quercetin, Curcumin (Curcuma longa) root extract, and Bacillus coagulans. These ingredients work together to reduce inflammation, support skin health, regulate immune responses, and promote digestive health. Especially for dogs prone to allergies, these ingredients help alleviate allergy symptoms and improve the quality of life.



Noora Allergy Support Health Supplement
Advantages/Functions: This health supplement is specifically designed for dogs to help maintain their overall health from the inside out. It contains active ingredients that support healthy skin, maintain normal histamine levels, and support normal detoxification processes. This is particularly beneficial for alleviating allergy symptoms and maintaining the overall well-being of dogs.
Appearance: The product comes in the form of chewable tablets with a natural duck flavor to increase the palatability for dogs.
Size: 1.5 grams per tablet, 90 tablets in each bottle, a total of 135 g (4.76 oz).

 


IV、Treatments for Dog Allergies

a lovely dog is looking at you


Dog allergies are a common problem and can be caused by various factors such as food, environment, pollen, and insect bites. Here are some treatment methods for dog allergies:


i、 Determine the allergen


1.Food investigation


Gradually replace food: You can choose a hypoallergenic prescription diet first and observe whether the allergic symptoms of the dog improve. If the symptoms are reduced or disappear, it means that the dog may be allergic to certain components in the previous food.


Single food test: Introduce new food ingredients one by one, adding only one at a time, and observe the dog's reaction to make sure the specific allergen.


2.Environmental investigation


Clean the environment: Clean the dog's living environment regularly and remove possible allergens such as dust and pollen. You can use a vacuum cleaner to clean carpets, sofas and other places where dust is easily accumulated.


Avoid contact: If pollen, grass seeds are suspected to cause allergies, you can reduce the dog's outdoor time during pollen season or put a mask on the dog. If the dog is allergic to certain chemical substances such as cleaners and perfumes, these items should be kept away from the dog.


ii、 Drug treatment


1.Antihistamines


Function: Antihistamines can inhibit the release of histamine in allergic reactions and reduce symptoms such as itching and redness. Common antihistamines include diphenhydramine and chlorpheniramine.


Usage: According to the dog's weight and condition, use the appropriate dose as recommended by the veterinarian. Generally, antihistamines can be taken orally or injected.


2.Corticosteroids


Function: Corticosteroids have a powerful anti-inflammatory effect and can quickly relieve allergic symptoms. However, long-term use may have some side effects such as weight gain and increased drinking and urination.


Usage: Corticosteroids usually need to be used under the guidance of a veterinarian. The dose and usage time are determined by the severity of the condition and the dog's weight.


3.Immunosuppressants


Function: For severe allergy cases, immunosuppressants may be needed to regulate the immune system and reduce allergic reactions.


Usage: The use of immunosuppressants needs to be very cautious and must be carried out under the close monitoring of a veterinarian to prevent serious side effects.



iii、Skin care



1、Bathing


Choose the right bathing product: Use mild, non-irritating pet-specific shampoo and avoid using human bathing products to prevent aggravating allergic symptoms.


Frequency: Adjust the bathing frequency appropriately according to the dog's skin condition and allergy degree. Generally, bathing once or twice a week is appropriate.


2、Moisturizing


Apply moisturizing cream: For dogs with dry skin, you can apply some pet-specific moisturizing cream to keep the skin hydrated and reduce itching.


Dietary adjustment: Increase foods rich in fatty acids such as fish oil and flaxseed oil, which can improve the dog's skin condition and reduce allergic symptoms.


iv、Nutritional support


1.Supplement vitamins and minerals


Vitamin C and E: Have antioxidant effects and can reduce allergic reactions. You can supplement an appropriate amount of vitamin C and E for the dog under the advice of a veterinarian.


Zinc: Helps maintain skin health and enhance immunity. You can feed the dog some foods rich in zinc, such as lean meat and seafood.


2.Probiotics


Function: Probiotics can regulate the intestinal flora and enhance intestinal immunity, which may be helpful for dogs with food allergies.


Usage: Select a probiotic product suitable for dogs and feed it according to the instructions.


Noora Probiotic Supplement is recommended

Appearance/Taste: The supplement is presented in a chewable form with a natural duck flavor, which is appealing to dogs and encourages consumption.  Size: Each chew is 1.5 grams in weight.  Quantity: The product is sold in a package that contains a quantity sufficient for daily use according to the dog's weight, with specific feeding directions provided.  Ingredients and Efficacy:  Bacillus coagulans: 120,000,000 CFU per chew, a probiotic that helps maintain a healthy digestive system by supporting the growth of beneficial bacteria. Fructooligosaccharides (FOS): 200 mg, a prebiotic that serves as a food source for probiotics, encouraging their growth and activity in the gut.

Noora Probiotic Supplement is a daily health supplement designed for dogs of all ages, featuring a duck flavor. It supports digestive health and immune function with live cultures of Bacillus coagulans and prebiotic fiber, promoting a balanced gut microbiome.


v、Preventive measures


1.Regular physical examinations


Take the dog to the veterinarian for regular physical examinations to detect and deal with allergy problems in time. The veterinarian can determine whether the dog has allergic symptoms by examining the dog's skin, hair, ears and other parts, and conducting blood tests.


2.Avoid contact with allergens


After understanding the dog's allergens, try to avoid letting the dog contact these allergens. For example, if the dog is allergic to pollen, reduce the outdoor time during pollen season; if the dog is allergic to a certain food, avoid feeding this food to the dog.


3.Keep the environment clean


Clean the dog's living environment regularly and keep it clean and dry. Clean the dog's bedding, toys and other items regularly to reduce the accumulation of allergens.

In conclusion, the treatment of dog allergies needs to consider multiple aspects comprehensively, including determining the allergen, drug treatment, skin care, nutritional support and preventive measures. During the treatment process, be sure to follow the veterinarian's advice, give the dog medicine and support health on time to ensure the dog's health. At the same time, pay attention to observing the changes in the dog's symptoms and adjust the treatment plan in time.