Spring brings more than just Daylight Savings and hopes of warmer weather - it’s officially allergy season. 

Pets are just as susceptible to allergies as their humans. If a pet parent suspects their dog has allergies, here are a few signs of what to look for and recommended steps to confirm. 

Does My Dog Have Allergies? 

A key component of identifying whether or not a dog is suffering from allergies is to recognize any and all symptoms it may be experiencing. Dogs don’t speak the same language, so knowing what to look for is helpful for pet parents that may be concerned about dog allergies.

Common allergy symptoms in dogs are: 

• Redness of the skin 

• Hives 

• Itching

• Sneezing 

• Runny nose or eyes 

• Swelling, especially on the face, ears, eyes, ears, or lips

• Vomiting 

• Diarrhea 

If a dog is demonstrating the above symptoms, it may be experiencing an allergic reaction of some sort. 

The next question is - what kind of allergic reaction might they be experiencing? 

Types of dog allergies 

Canine allergies break down into three primary categories: 

Environmental 

Dust, pollen, and mold are just as likely to affect dogs as humans. Canine environmental allergies can be seasonal and are most likely to affect the ears and paws, although itching may be prevalent in other parts of the body as well. 

Fleas 

An allergic reaction to flea bites is formally known as flea allergy dermatitis, and universal signs of it include red, inflamed skin that may scab over where bitten. Some dogs are allergic to fleas’ saliva, an allergy which can be severe or, in extreme cases fatal, if left untreated. For this reason, flea prevention should be an integral part of every dog’s ongoing preventative health practices. 

Food 

Food sensitivity is more common in dogs than outright intolerance, but food allergies can occur due to a number of genetic factors. Allergic reactions to food ingredients trigger an immune response, which may lead to gastrointestinal issues such as bloating, vomiting, lethargy or nausea. Food allergies may also result in visible skin issues such as hives, itching, hot spots and swelling. 

Each type of allergy will require its own course of treatment. Consulting a veterinarian will help pet parents determine which possible allergy type is affecting their dog, and Fuzzy’s veterinary support team is available via 24/7 Live Vet Chat to answer any questions pet parents may have about their dog’s health and wellness needs.