Allergic reactions in dogs are scary and can result in some serious consequences. So, as pet owners, it’s your responsibility to be able to spot if your dog is having an allergic reaction to keep them happy and as healthy as possible.
Pet owners usually try their best to keep their dogs away from anything that can cause a reaction or upset their stomach. However, we all know that dogs will eat whatever they can find, and a lot of times, they can get to places you thought it would be impossible for them to reach.
On top of that, allergies can be caused by other things aside from food. So, while keeping your dog away from allergens is the first step in protecting them, it’s crucial to be able to tell if your dog was exposed to allergens. That way, you can act on it before the symptoms get severe.
In this article, we explain all the different ways you can spot an allergic reaction in dogs and what to do just in case. Read on to learn more.
Types of Dog Allergies
Just like humans, there are different types of allergies for dogs, and they each have different causes and treatments. Understanding the different types of allergies can make it easier for you to find the right treatment and explain the situation to the vet. Below are the different types of dogg allergies;
Skin Allergies
Skin allergies are also called allergic dermatitis and are one of the most common types of dog allergies. Skin allergies are generally caused by ticks, but they can also be caused by food and the environment.
As the name suggests, these allergies manifest on the skin and can cause your pet to get itchy, develop swelling in the affected areas, and you may even notice hives on their skin. Since these allergies cause dogs to scratch themselves, there is a high risk of secondary infection because scratching, chewing, and biting can open up the skin and lead to bacterial infections/
Food Allergies
Food allergies are actually fairly uncommon in dogs. When someone says their pet has a food allergy, they might be referring to a food sensitivity, where their body reacts to certain ingredients like corn, milk, eggs, or soy. A true food allergy results in an immune response and can manifest in a variety of ways.
Food sensitivity is most commonly manifested through vomiting and diarrhea since the body is trying to get rid of a certain ingredient. However, food sensitivity can also result in itchiness and hives.
Seasonal Allergies
Just like humans, some dogs suffer from seasonal allergies. If you notice that your pet gets sick at a certain time of the year consistently, this may be a seasonal allergy. Common symptoms of a seasonal allergy are sneezing, coughing, and itchiness.
Acute Allergies
If you notice that your dog has sudden and intense reactions to certain allergens, they may have acute allergies. Acute allergies are very scary, and in some cases, it can result in anaphylactic shock. If your dog has acute allergies, you need to keep a close eye on them and call the vet whenever they’re exhibiting symptoms.
Symptoms of An Allergic Reaction in Dogs
Here are some things to keep an eye for if you suspect your dog is having an allergic reaction;
Vomiting & Diarrhea
If ever you see your dog vomiting or having diarrhea, it might be a sign of an allergic reaction. If you find your dog vomiting white foam, that can be especially concerning. If you need help figuring out what to do if your dog is vomiting white foam, remember to take a breath, relax, and call your vet immediately.
Itchiness
Itchiness is one of the most common symptoms of a skin allergy. You can detect if your dog is feeling itchy in many ways. For one, you can just check if your dog is scratching more often than usual. Additionally, you could also check if your dog is frequently licking or chewing certain parts of their body, as this usually means it’s itchy and they’re trying to scratch something.
Sneezing
Sneezing is another very common symptom of allergies in dogs. If you notice your dog sneezing a lot, they may be getting irritated with something in the air, but it could also mean they are allergic to something nearby.
Swollen Face
Swollen faces might be a symptom of an acute allergy. However, don’t panic right away if your dog has a swollen face, as this could also be caused by an insect bite or bee sting. Swollen faces could also be a sign of a pollen allergy, which some dogs may also suffer from.
What Do I Do If My Dog Has an Allergic Reaction?
When you see your dog exhibiting any symptoms of an allergic reaction, your first instinct should always be to call your vet. Your dog’s vet will know everything about their life, health, and general well-being, so they will be able to recommend a proper treatment that can alleviate the symptoms.
If you notice that your dog is suffering from a serious allergic reaction, you need to schedule a vet visit as soon as possible. The sooner you act when your dog has an allergic reaction, the easier it will be to treat, and the chances of it turning into a severe issue will be minimized.