Dog Allergies: Complete Guide
Allergies affect 10-15% of dogs. Here's everything you need to know.
Types of Dog Allergies
Food Allergies (15-20% of allergy cases)
Most common triggers:
- Beef (most common)
- Chicken
- Dairy
- Wheat/Gluten
- Eggs
Signs:
- Chronic ear infections
- Paw licking/chewing
- Recurring skin infections
- Gastrointestinal issues
- Symptoms year-round (not seasonal)
Environmental Allergies (Atopy)
Common triggers:
- Pollen (seasonal)
- Dust mites
- Mold spores
- Grass
Signs:
- Seasonal symptoms
- Face rubbing
- Belly/groin redness
- Eye discharge
Contact Allergies
- Cleaning products
- Specific bedding materials
- Grass/plants
Allergy Testing
- Intradermal test (most accurate for environmental)
- Blood test (convenient, less accurate)
- Elimination diet (gold standard for food allergies)
Elimination Diet Protocol
- Novel protein (e.g., duck, venison, rabbit - not fed before)
- Novel carbohydrate (sweet potato, potato)
- 8-12 weeks strict diet
- No treats, chews, or flavored medications
- Reintroduce one ingredient at a time
At Pet Hotels
Tell the hotel:
- Exact food allergy triggers
- What food to feed (bring your own)
- What treats/chews are safe
- Emergency antihistamine instructions if prescribed