How to Help Your Dog Live Comfortably with Allergies

Does your dog suffer from itchy skin, chronic ear infections, hair loss, hot spots, or other allergy symptoms? While it might be frustrating for owners, allergies in dogs are quite common. They are also very manageable with the right approach. Indeed, with careful management, many dogs can live comfortably with their allergies.

What Causes Dog Allergies?

Allergies occur when the immune system overreacts to a substance that would be harmless for most other dogs. These allergy triggers – or allergens – set off both inflammation and other more frustrating symptoms in sensitive canines. Common causes can include:

• Environmental allergens: Dust mites, pollen, grass, mold spores
• Food: Ingredients like chicken, beef, dairy, wheat, soy
• Parasites: Fleas or mange mites
• Contact: Materials such as wool, nylon, chemicals

Sometimes, allergies can be passed down by parents. Furthermore, certain breeds are more vulnerable. These include terriers, retrievers, bulldogs, and boxers.

Recognizing the Signs of Allergies

Itchy skin and ears are usually the hallmark of allergy symptoms, but some dogs might also exhibit the following symptoms:

• Paw licking/chewing
• Recurring ear infections
• Skin infections
• Hair loss/thin coat
• Rashes or bumps
• Diarrhea
• Gas or irritated bowels

Skin issues tend to flare up seasonally with environmental allergies or year-round if food allergies are the culprit. Keep a symptom log to help you identify patterns. Vet tests can pinpoint the exact allergen that is causing an adverse reaction from your pup.

Relieving Your Pup’s Discomfort at Home

While allergies can’t be cured, you can take steps to substantially ease your dog’s misery and inflammation. Useful remedies and lifestyle measures include:

Frequent Baths

Bathing removes allergens from your dog’s coat and skin. Use gentle shampoos like oatmeal, aloe vera, or honey & chamomile formulas. Beware of harsh human products.

Omega Fatty Acids

Fish oil and other supplements provide anti-inflammatory omega fats. Consult your vet on dosage. Effects build over time, so plan on a 2–3-month initial course.

Moisturizing Rinses

Spritz itchy spots with cooling, soothing rinses. Blend oatmeal powder or Greek yogurt with water and decant into a spray bottle. No rinsing needed.

Antihistamines

Over-the-counter meds like Benadryl ease many allergy cases but ask your vet for proper dosage instructions. Use short term only alongside other remedies.

Immunotherapy Shots

Allergy shots expose dogs to tiny amounts of the trigger allergen, retraining their immune systems over time. Success rates are good – more than 75% see improvement.

Dry Dog Food for Allergies

The experts at Nextrition recommend prescription or limited-ingredient dry dog food for allergies that avoid common triggers like chicken, grains, and eggs. Novel protein sources like duck, salmon, or kangaroo are less likely to spark reactions.

Flea/Mite Treatments

Don’t assume itching means environmental allergies. Handle any potential flea or mite issues first. Even one bite can set off intense discomfort. Use vet-recommended prevention year-round.

Lifestyle Adjustments for Allergy Prone Pups

Certain changes to your home and outdoor environments can reduce allergen levels for a dog with allergies:

• Vacuum/mop floors 1-2 times weekly to remove dust, dander, and other particles.
• Wash bedding on hot cycle once a week.
• Limit stuffed toys that harbor allergens and wash toys weekly.
• Install HEPA air filters/purifiers to clean the air at home.
• Wipe paws after outdoor play to remove pollen or allergens picked up.

Conclusion

While frustrating, consistent care allows most dogs with allergies to live happy, active lives with controlled symptoms. Observe reactions to identify triggers, and work closely with your vet to develop a tailored management plan. Through some trial and error, you’ll find the ideal combination of remedies, diet, and lifestyle adjustments to help your pup thrive.