Humans and animals suffer from allergies whenever a foreign substance enters the body, and the immune system gives a misguided reaction. Dogs can develop different types of allergies, like skin allergies, food allergies, and environmental allergens.
In this article, we will be going over different symptoms of an allergic reaction in dogs and the factors that can result in dog allergies.
Flea Allergy Dermatitis
The allergic reaction to flea bites is called flea allergy dermatitis, and it can become a serious skin condition if not properly cared for. Some dogs are allergic to flea saliva resulting in extreme itchiness. Excessive scratching can result in inflammation and redness.
Food Allergies
Food sensitivities and allergies can also result in itchy skin. If you notice your dog scratches their ears and paws after having food, the chances are that they are allergic to a specific ingredient. If not treated properly, it can lead to gastrointestinal issues in dogs. Dogs who have food sensitivities can display symptoms of vomiting and diarrhea. The best way to diagnose food allergies in dogs is by taking them to their vet so they can figure out what’s causing your dog the extreme reaction.
Environmental Allergens
Dust, pollen, mold can all cause allergic reactions in your dog. Usually, these allergies are seasonal, and you will notice your dog scratching and itching at certain times of the year.
Some dogs also get an allergic reaction after getting their vaccine shot. It’s important that you administer the behavior of your dog after it gets its shot in case there’s no adverse reaction.
Symptoms of an Allergic Reaction in Dogs
The symptoms of an allergic reaction depend on what’s causing it. A few symptoms also overlap, so make sure to always consult with your vet every time your dog displays the following reactions:
- Excessive itching
- Hives
- Swelling near the eyes, ears, or lips
- Inflamed skin
- Vomiting
- Diarrhea
- Ear infections
- Sneezing
- Constant licking
- Runny eyes
Some of these symptoms could be indicating a more serious medical condition. Book an appointment with your vet if your dog displays any of these symptoms for consecutive days.