Diagnosing and Treating Dog Allergies: A Comprehensive Guide for Pet Owners
Like humans, dogs can suffer from allergies that affect their quality of life. Allergies in dogs occur when their immune system reacts to a typically harmless substance known as an allergen. These allergens can be found in their environment, food, or even as parasites on their skin. Understanding the types of allergies and their symptoms is the first step toward proper diagnosis and treatment. Types of Dog Allergies Dog allergies can be categorized into three main types: environmental allergies, food allergies, and flea allergies. Environmental Allergies: Also known as atopic dermatitis, environmental allergies are caused by substances in the environment, such as pollen, dust mites, mold, and dander. Dogs with environmental allergies often exhibit symptoms such as itching, scratching, licking, and red, inflamed skin. Food Allergies: Food allergies occur when a dog’s immune system reacts to certain ingredients in their diet. Common culprits include proteins such as beef, chicken, lamb,...