Many dogs suffer spring-time allergies and hot spots each year. Owners often wonder how to tell if their dog is allergic to something.
Dogs have skin reactions when allergic on top of watery itchy eyes. So if your dog is scratching too much they could just have an allergy or a hot spot.
They could be scratching and licking their paws and other parts of their body all the time. Their ears can even get infected by allergies. These allergies could be to a variety of things.
Many dogs suffer spring-time allergies due to fleas. Some dogs break out in a flaky rash immediately upon getting bit by fleas. When this happens a trip to the veterinarian is warranted. The vet can give the dog a shot that will calm the rash and reduce itching. If left untreated the dog could lose their coat. You will have to be doubly sure to protect your dog from flea attacks.
Your dog also could be eating something they are allergic to. If you have ruled out the flea allergy then try some different foods to see if they do better. Change to a food that has different ingredients. Watch table scraps too, human food could have additives that the dog is reacting to.
Pollen, mold and other airborne substances can also be allergy triggers. If dogs suffer from spring-time allergies due to pollen, mold, or even plant oils, then use some dish washing detergent to wash it off the dog before washing them with their own shampoo.
Household chemicals can be an allergen for dogs, too. It is a good idea to use only organic cleaning agents in your house. These are hypoallergenic for the dogs as well as people.
Dog shampoos can also cause a reaction in your dog. If this happens try an oatmeal dog shampoo or a natural one. This is a trial and error thing. Keep changing products until the reaction goes away.
There have been occasions when various flea preventatives have caused reactions. Consult your vet when this happens. Many different preventatives are on the market today. They can simply recommend another one.
If it is just a skin reaction you have time to check with the vet the next day. But when allergies cause breathing or more severe reactions in the dogs then you need immediate care. This is an emergency, call your vet as quick as possible.
So pay attention to the signs so you’ll know if dogs suffer spring-time allergies. Remember, dogs can experience itching and rashes.
When dogs suffer spring-time allergies in minor cases, their eyes can water and itch. In more severe allergic reactions, dog could experience difficulty breathing.
If you think dogs suffer spring-time allergies, consult with your vet to make sure you take the best care of your dog.
– By Nancy Cope
Nancy Cope is the owner of four rescue dogs and Pampered Dog Gifts.
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Great article! I have a Dutch Shepherd and he has multiple allergies. Rex used to lick his paws raw! The oatmeal baths work great for Rex. We’ve tried Benadryl and doggy Prednisone with little success. Changing to IAMs food also seemed to help.