Allergy in dogs: how to recognize it

What is an allergy in a dog

An allergy is a “wrong”, excessive reaction of the immune system of a person or animal to some substances. For the most part, we are dealing with a hereditary predisposition. If in ordinary people or animals these substances are simply excreted from the body, an inflammatory process develops in allergy sufferers. Allergy is specific, i.e. it is the “response” to certain substances and usually weakly depends on the amount of this substance. If it is a food allergy, then a tiny piece is enough to start the process. In dogs, 3 types of allergies are most common:

1. Food
2. On the substances of the external environment
3. On the saliva of fleas

 Unfortunately, the initial stages of allergies in dogs often go unnoticed. And in the future, this can cause complications. When the amount of the allergen in the body reaches the maximum amount, symptoms appear. 

dog allergy symptoms

As a rule, allergy symptoms are similar in all animals. The most common:

1. Severe dry skin.
2. Itching.
3. Dandruff.
4. Bad smell from wool.
5. Hair loss.
6. Redness, rash in the ears.
7. Redness of the eyes.
8. Quincke swelling.
9. Anaphylactic shock.

 If we are talking about food allergies in a dog, then diarrhea, nausea and vomiting are also possible. But first of all the strongest itch is always shown. The dog itches, worries. Then there are other signs. As soon as the dog begins to itch, it must be taken to the veterinarian! This is the only way to avoid complications. Hereditary manifestations of allergic reactions are possible. In animals, this is called “atopy”. There are breeds that are most prone to allergies (for example, terriers, Dalmatians, boxers, and some others).