Allergic reaction

It seems to be becoming more and more common, the allergic reaction in dogs. Allergy in dogs can be described as hypersensitivity to certain foreign substances, leading to an extreme immune system response. The dog can also have an allergic reaction to food.

The allergic reaction can occur seasonally, similar to hay fever in humans. An allergic reaction can also be triggered by substances in the animal's environment to which it is allergic. Examples include grasses, pollen and house dust mites. Another common problem is flea allergy.

Certain breeds are more prone to developing an allergy. Breeds where this is common include retrievers, terriers, Lhasa Apso, Miniature Poodles, Pugs, Boxers, Miniature Schnauzers, Sharpei, German Shepherds, Dalmatians, English and Irish Setters. The allergy often develops between the ages of one and three, but sometimes an allergy can develop later in life.

What are the causes of an allergic reaction?
An allergy in dogs can have various causes. We have listed the most common causes:

• inherited cause

• fleas and mites

• Foods such as certain meats, grains or nuts

• dander

• pollen, grasses and trees

• feathers

• Perfume, for example in personal care products

• medication

• Contact with floor coverings

• Contact with linoleum or paint

• contact with cleaning agents

What are the symptoms of an allergic reaction?
The most noticeable symptoms are itching, scratching, biting and licking on the head, paws, armpits and groin. Licking the paws or fur is particularly noticeable in dogs with light-colored fur, as the fur often turns black-brown. Skin infection is also common, which can lead to red patches. Scabs, baldness, thickening and darkening of the skin are also some symptoms that indicate an allergic reaction.

If the skin becomes inflamed, the inflammation can be made worse by a bacterial infection. An ear infection can develop because bacteria have a better environment to multiply. Eye infection can also result from irritation of the conjunctiva.

When should you go to the vet?
An allergic reaction often manifests itself as itching. Itching is worse than pain. If one or more allergy symptoms appear, it is important to see a veterinarian. The veterinarian can carry out examinations and may already recommend soothing agents such as ointments or drops to combat the symptoms. An allergy is very uncomfortable for a dog, so a visit to the vet should not be delayed too long.

How is the diagnosis made?
First, there is a conversation between the veterinarian and the owner. In this way, the vet is already trying to rule out some possibilities. A detailed physical examination is then carried out. This can be done with a skin test or a blood test. A skin test involves injecting multiple substances, which causes swelling around the substance to which the dog is allergic. A blood test involves doing a blood screening. This screening can be divided into specific groups:

• fungal spores, fleas and mites

• trees

• grasses and herbs

If the dog reacts positively to one of these groups, a further subdivision can be made as to what type of grass or herb it is.

How does the allergy treatment work?
As soon as it is known to which substance the dog is allergic, treatment can begin. Treatment may include desensitization. The dog receives injections v

How can it be prevented?
In many cases, an allergic reaction is a hereditary problem and therefore often cannot be prevented. It is recommended not to breed with dogs showing an allergic reaction. In the event of a flea allergy, you can wash the dog with a special flea shampoo or treat it with an anti-flea spray, an anti-flea collar or a flea comb. For another cause, you can try to avoid the allergens, but this often proves difficult in practice.

You can also give the dog special food. For example, you can feed him hypoallergenic food, a food used to diagnose and treat food sensitivities.

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