Dog Skin Allergies Types And Causes

More dogs have allergies today then ever before. Estimates reveal that as many as one out of every seven dogs displays symptoms of an allergy. In fact, dog skin allergies are the number one reason why owners bring their pets to a veterinarian. Heredity is believed to contribute to these problems. Breed also seems to matter, as some types are much more likely to develop issues than others.

Allergies are negative reactions due to exposure to an inhalant, food, or environmental stimuli. The offending substance the dog is exposed to is referred to as an allergen. In response to this allergen the immune system of the animal initiates an allergic or hypersensitive reaction.

Dogs must gain exposure to a substance at least two times before they can have a full reaction from it. The first exposure causes the immune system to manufacture antibodies. During the second time, an antibody based reaction occurs and histamine is produced, which is a chemical mediator.

Humans experience symptoms normally within the respiratory system. Dogs have skin related symptoms instead. Continual itching is a very common sign of problems. In addition to this, dogs can also become short tempered or unpleasant, due to their suffering.

Hypersensitivities can be classified into two kinds. The first type happens minutes following exposure and normally presents itself as hives. In severe cases, immediate reactions can result in anaphylactic shock, vomiting, diarrhea, breathing difficulty, collapse, weakness, and death. The delayed response type happens hours to days later. The main indicator of this is an intense itching sensation.

There are four main reasons for canine allergies. First are fleas or any other insects that may bite. Second are inhaled forms of substances such as grasses, pollen, dust mites, and molds. Third is consuming specific drugs or foods. Last, irritation may result from physical contact with a substance.

Hives are a very commonly seen problem in dogs. They appear due to an immediate allergic reaction and form circular raised areas on the skin. Hairs may stick out in patches. Sometimes the eyelids will also swell. Hives appear following half an hour of exposure and disappear by twenty four hours.

Their cause can be insect bites, vaccinations, antibiotics, and insecticides or soaps. If hives have a habit of reappearing they are probably the result of something in the environment. If problems are believed to originate from food, modifications to the diet are key. When they take place after shampooing, bathe the pet and find another product.

Fleas lead to both response types. Itching happens immediately after bites occur and can continue on as long as fleas are around. Flea control is a good solution to this. Every pet in a home should be treated for fleas to properly avoid problems from coming back. Antihistamines control itching and medicated baths and antibiotics can cure it.

Dog skin allergies are growing in occurrence. They can happen from airborne substances, foods, or anything animals come into contact with physically. Symptoms can occur immediately or be delayed, happening days later. Flea allergies are a cause of both types of reactions.