If you've ever suffered from allergies, you know how miserable it can make people; dogs are no different. They can also develop allergies, and sometimes these allergies may cause skin problems. It is estimated that approximately 10% of dogs suffer from allergic dermatitis.
If you notice your pup has inflamed or irritated skin, or if he's been scratching, licking, and nibbling at his skin a lot, he might have allergic dermatitis.
What Is Allergic Dermatitis?
Dogs can be allergic to things they inhale, eat, or come into contact with that are absorbed through the skin. When a dog comes into contact with an allergen, the immune system sees the substance as a foreign threat. The immune response is to attack these antigens, and this can result in skin inflammation and irritation.
A dog with dermatitis may have red skin, raised bumps on the skin, crusty areas, or thickened areas of skin. You'll also often see scratches in the area because it is natural for the dogs to try and scratch these itchy spots.
Irritations can appear anywhere but are most often found in the armpits, on the paws (especially in-between the toes), around the eyes, ears, mouth, on the backside, or the lower abdomen. Skin allergies will usually first appear on dogs who are two to six years old. Sometimes these allergic reactions are seasonal, but in some dogs, they can occur year-round.
Allergens Your Dog May Encounter
Countless substances can cause a dog to have an allergic reaction, resulting in dermatitis. Most often, these things will fall under three categories:
- Inhalants (pollens, molds, mildew, dust mites, etc.)
- Food (ingredients such as wheat gluten, soy, eggs, dairy, chicken, beef, etc.)
- Contact (flea bites, certain plants, household cleaners, certain fabrics, etc.)
These examples are by no means an exhaustive list. This is why an examination by a qualified veterinarian is so important when it comes to allergic dermatitis in dogs—determining the cause of the condition is the first essential step in treatment.
Some Breeds Are Pre-Disposed to Allergies
Unfortunately, certain breeds are more likely to suffer from allergic dermatitis than others. The following breeds are genetically disposed to inheriting allergies:
- Boxer
- Bulldogs
- Cocker Spaniel
- German Shepherds
- Golden Retriever
- Labrador Retriever
- Most types of Terriers
The Animal Doctors Can Help
The Animal Doctors have spent the last 40 years providing high-quality care to our patients in the South San Francisco Bay area. We are proudly among only 15% of US veterinary practices accredited by the American Animal Hospital Association. We are committed to holding ourselves to the AAHA's strictest standards in cleanliness, professionalism, patient care, and quality of veterinary medicine.
At our office, we have state-of-the-art diagnostic veterinary tools and in-house laboratory testing. Our veterinarians will examine and treat your canine companion using advanced modern medicine combined with an old-fashioned bedside manner. When necessary, we consult specialists and work with them to help ensure your pet has the best of care.
If you suspect your beloved pooch is suffering from allergic dermatitis, seek help for him without delay. Call us for an appointment. We service the San Francisco Peninsula, including Atherton, Cupertino, East Palo Alto, Los Altos, Los Altos Hills, Menlo Park, Mountain View, Palo Alto, Portola Valley, Redwood City, Stanford, and Woodside.
