Dog skin allergies can be caused by many factors including plants, food, dander, insects, medication, and anything in between. These allergies cause a multitude of symptoms that could be anything from Scratching and chewing, to rashes and inflammation just to name some of the more common ones. Luckily there are ways to help our dog get relief in these tough times.
There are tons and tons of different dog skin allergies and it can be really hard to decipher which one is what. If you think you your dog has a skin allergy, have your vet check it out before you try to treat it.
Once identified, most skin allergies can be treated.
See a vet if your dog is scratching or licking excessively, or if you notice any changes in your pet's coat or skin, including scaling, redness, discoloration, or bald patches. There is quite a few common dog skin allergies, so we have directly pulled some from this list on Pet Web MD for you.
Allergic Dermatitis
Dogs can have allergic reactions to grooming products, food, and environmental irritants, such as pollen or insect bites. A dog with allergies may scratch relentlessly, and a peek at the skin often reveals an ugly rash.
Corticosteroids can help with itchy rashes, but the most effective treatment is to identify and avoid exposure to the allergens.
Yeast Infection
If your dog can't seem to stop scratching an ear or licking and chewing her toes, ask your veterinarian to check for a yeast infection. Symptoms include irritated, itchy, or discolored skin. The infection usually strikes the paws or ears, where yeast has a cozy space to grow.
Yeast infections are easy to diagnose and often respond well to a topical cream. In some cases, your veterinarian may prescribe oral drugs or medicated baths.
Impetigo
Another type of bacterial infection, impetigo is most common in puppies. It causes pus-filled blisters that may break and crust over. The blisters usually develop on the hairless portion of the abdomen.
Impetigo is rarely serious and can be treated with a topical solution. In a small number of cases, the infection may spread or persist.
Seborrhea
Seborrhea causes a dog's skin to become greasy and develop scales (dandruff). In some cases, it's a genetic disease that begins when a dog is young and lasts a lifetime. But most dogs with seborrhea develop the scaling as a complication of another medical problem, such as allergies or hormonal abnormalities. In these cases, it is vital to treat the underlying cause so symptoms do not recur.
Ringworm
Despite its name, ringworm is not caused by a worm, but by a fungus. The term "ring" comes from the circular patches that can form anywhere but are often found on a dog's head, paws, ears, and forelegs. Inflammation, scaly patches, and hair loss often surround the lesions.
Puppies less than a year old are the most susceptible, and the infection can spread quickly between dogs in a kennel or to pet owners at home.
Various anti-fungal treatments are available.
Mange (Mites)