Symptoms of Dog Allergic Dermatitis: Identifying Common

About Dog Itching

Itching, medically known as pruritus, is a symptom of many different types of skin issues. Often, itching can be traced back to a type of allergy. There are also nonallergic skin conditions. Your veterinarian is the one to diagnose the exact cause of your dog's pruritus. Fortunately, you can make some changes to your dog's environment, lifestyle, and routine care to help manage the itching.

Fleas and Dogs

Before we delve into other allergies, we must first discuss the most common cause of dog itching: fleas. These tiny parasites can live beneath your dog's skin. Fleas survive by biting your dog and ingesting its blood. Not all dogs are troubled by fleas. Some dogs are actually not allergic to fleas. However, most dogs will experience itching when they have fleas, meaning they are allergic to the flea saliva. The severity of flea allergies varies greatly.

Some dogs may only feel mild itching when exposed to fleas, while others may experience intense itching with just a few flea bites. Every dog should be protected against fleas. But if you have a dog that itches, make sure there's no chance for fleas: ensure your dog receives the best flea prevention yearround.

Ask your veterinarian about the appropriate flea prevention products for your dog. Fleas can eventually develop immunity to flea prevention products, which is why new products are constantly emerging. What worked to kill fleas a few years ago may not be effective today.

Dog Allergies

Dog itching is often related to allergies. Flea saliva is just one of many allergens that dogs can be sensitive to. Dogs can be allergic to any object in the environment, such as dust mites, dander (from cats, humans, etc.), pollen, grass, mold spores, and more. Many dogs have seasonal allergies, which are likely caused by changing pollen and other outdoor allergens throughout the seasons. Dogs can also be allergic to ingredients in dog food, such as chicken, beef, and various grains. Some dogs may have mild to moderate reactions to various allergens and respond well to treatment, while others may suffer from more severe allergy symptoms, known as canine atopic dermatitis, which may require more intensive treatment. Additionally, your veterinarian may recommend allergy testing to determine your dog's allergens.

Dog Skin Infections

Allergies, scratching, and chewing can lead to inflammation, which can result in secondary infections (especially bacterial and yeast infections).

Stimuli and secondary infections can occur on the skin and feet, in the ears, and even around the eyes. Once a skin infection develops, dogs often require medication, such as antibiotics, antifungal drugs, steroids, topical treatments, medicated shampoos, or even more. Depending on the severity of the skin infection, dogs may take a long time to recover. This is why it's important to regularly discuss your dog's health with your veterinarian. If possible, have your dog examined by a vet in the early stages of itching, before the skin appears affected. Allowing skin infections to get out of control can lead to more time and effort needed to treat the infection.

Other Dog Skin Conditions

Your dog's itching may not be related to allergies but to another skin condition. Parasites like mange (demodex mites, scabies) can be the cause of itching.

Some autoimmune or other metabolic conditions can also cause itching. The treatments for these conditions can differ significantly from those for allergies and secondary skin infections. This is why it's crucial to visit your veterinarian if your dog continues to itch, lose hair, or has an abnormal skin appearance (redness, scaling, flaking, bumps, etc.).

Managing Dog Itching and Allergies

There are some methods that can help control your dog's itching and allergies. You can make some small changes at home to prevent or alleviate mild itching before secondary infections develop. However, sometimes, you'll need the help of your pet doctor. Understanding the best ways to prevent and treat dog allergies is essential.