Common Causes of Dog Skin Allergies: Identifying Trigge

Factors That Can Trigger Skin Allergies in Dogs

1. Diet

Many pet owners, out of affection, often spoil their dogs with a variety of canned dog food, snacks, and even human food. This overindulgence can lead to a preference for these treats over regular dog food, making the dogs less inclined to eat their meals. While this might seem like a show of love, it can actually be harmful. Dogs that don't consume their regular diet often suffer from dry hair, excessive dandruff, and an oily coat. True care for your dog involves prioritizing their health. As omnivores, dogs can be harmed by a diet consisting solely of one type of meat, leading to obesity, thickened skin, premature aging, and even skin allergies. Just like some people are allergic to seafood or mangoes, certain proteins can trigger skin allergies in dogs.

Food allergies are manageable yearround, especially for breeds prone to allergies. Opt for lowallergen prescription dog food to minimize the risk of allergic reactions. If you suspect your dog is suffering from foodinduced dermatitis, switch to prescription food for at least a month. This change should significantly improve your dog's allergic reactions.

2. Sunlight

It's a common misconception that shaving a dog's fur in the summer will keep them cool. However, puppies have much thinner skin than humans, with a much thinner epidermis than ours. Normally, healthy fur helps protect dogs from various microorganisms. But in the summer, without fur to absorb and reflect sunlight, dogs are more vulnerable to UV rays. Just like applying sunscreen or seeking shade at the beach, dogs need their fur to protect them from the sun. Without it, they can suffer from red, itchy skin, leading to secondary bacterial infections. Remember, your dog's fur is a crucial shield against the summer sun.

3. External Parasites

The peak season for flea allergies in dogs is typically from September to October. Dogs react differently to flea infestations, with some experiencing severe itching and others not showing much discomfort. To prevent allergic reactions, it's essential to prevent parasites. If your dog is infected, you can use ivermectin spoton solution for treatment, followed by a spray of Fenon skin spray.

Some pet owners may be puzzled why, despite using flea prevention during the summer, their dogs still suffer from allergies in September and October. This is because, in temperate climates, parasites have at least four months to reproduce each year. In subtropical regions, they can reproduce yearround. The eggs hide during other months, only to quickly multiply and grow when conditions are right. Regular deparasitization is crucial.

4. Improper Surface Contact

Allergic reactions caused by surface contact can be more specific. Some dogs may be allergic to perfumes, pet clothing fabrics, or household disinfectants. Generally, allergic reactions result in itching, prompting dogs to scratch. If symptoms disappear shortly after removing the allergen, it's usually not a severe issue. However, if symptoms persist for two hours or more, it's best to consult a veterinarian.

Dr. Oxygen Pet reminds everyone: Dog skin diseases are diverse, and treatment should be based on the cause. Therefore, it's best to consult a doctor before using medication for any unknown conditions, and avoid taking shortcuts.