4 Types of Dog Allergies

Did you know that dogs can suffer from allergies, just like people can? Allergies are no more fun for Fido than they are for us! Your canine pal can react to a wide variety of things. Read on as a Fort Collins, CO vet lists some different types of allergies.

Environmental allergens, as the name suggests, are things that are present in your pet’s environment. Pollen, dust, mold, grass, and leaves are all examples of this. Some of these are seasonal, so Fido’s allergies may act up at certain times of year. Cigarette smoke and perfume would also be considered environmental. Given that Fido loves to sniff and explore, he can pick up or inhale quite a lot of these things in a short time.

Food allergies are quite common in our canine buddies. Your dog can be allergic to the food itself, or to additives, chemicals, and/or preservatives used in processing. Fido can be allergic to a wide variety of foods. Grains, however, are a common culprit. Your pooch can also be allergic to dairy products, legumes, or root vegetables. Some pups are even allergic to certain meats, such as chicken, beef, or pork! 

Flea bites aren’t fun for any dog, but they are particularly miserable for pups that have allergic reactions to them. Your furry friend can also be allergic to bee stings. (Note: this won’t necessarily keep him from trying to eat bees.) Keep up with Fido’s parasite control products! You’ll also want to take steps to keep your environment flea-free. Vacuuming regularly and mowing your lawn regularly will both help with this.

Fido can react to a variety of things, such as certain fabrics or ingredients in his doggy shampoo, floor waxes, and mulch. Your pup can also be allergic to dander, or even to your cat. These often manifest as skin issues, such as rashes, and can make your furry pal very itchy!

Some common signs of allergies include itchiness; skin trouble, such as hot spots, scaling, and flaking; ear problems; snoring; flatulence; vomiting; diarrhea; paw irritation; and/or red, runny eyes. If you see any of these signs, contact your vet immediately. Allergies can’t be cured, but there are ways to manage them.

Do you know or suspect that your pooch has allergies? Contact us, your Fort Collins, CO vet clinic, today!