Allergies in dogs

A dog that is repeatedly exposed to a particular allergen becomes sensitized to it, and the immune system overreacts to a subsequent exposure, most commonly manifesting in the form of skin irritation.

Other common signs of allergies include coughing, sneezing, wheezing, ocular and nasal discharge, vomiting, diarrhea, and licking of the paws.

[6] Clinical signs of gut-induced allergies include the presence of rashes, itchy or tender skin, gastrointestinal upsets like vomiting and diarrhea, and swelling.

The primary cause is due to the flea's saliva that is injected into the feeding site, triggering an immune response in the dog.

This may include redness of the skin and pruritus, causing the dog to scratch, bite, and lick parts of the body, most commonly the base of the tail, abdomen, and head.

[8] Bacterial hypersensitivity is caused by an exaggerated immune system response to the natural flora normally found on the skin, like Staphylococcus bacteria.

It may be identified by red blotches, pus pockets, hair loss and a skin formation that looks like ringworm, called epidermal collarettes.

Certain breeds are prone to atopic dermatitis, like Golden Retrievers, Irish Setters, Lhasa Apsos, Dalmatians, Bulldogs, and Old English Sheepdogs.

Common allergy symptoms to look out for include diarrhea, hives, intense scratching, runny rose, shaking head, watery eyes, sneezing, and a red rash on the body.