Dog Allergy Remedies

By Melanie Fischer, eHow Contributor

 

Dog owners often get frustrated with dogs that constantly itch, lick or have reoccurring ear infections. In addition, the vet bills and costly medications can be daunting for dog owners. Luckily, there are many dog allergy remedies that are easy to use, inexpensive and tolerable to a dog's system. A dog that suffers from allergies may respond to at-home allergy remedies that require little effort by the owner. 

Allergy Symptoms 

Allergies in a dog can be caused by many factors that are similar to those that cause allergic reactions in humans. A dog can be allergic to items that touch its skin, such as a particular type of fabric, a collar, a dog bed or household cleaning fluids. Ingredients in dog food or dog treats can also cause a dog to display allergy symptoms. In addition, small particles in the air, such as pollen, can cause a dog to sneeze uncontrollably. Keep a log of when and how often a dog scratches, sneezes, licks or displays any discomfort that may be due to an allergic reaction. The appropriate dog allergy remedy is easier to figure out if the dog's symptoms are followed and recorded on a regular basis. 

Allergies in a dog can cause constant itching, scratching that causes loss of fur and sores on the animal's skin. Sometimes, a dog will endlessly lick himself in the area that is bothering him. Another sign that a dog has an allergy to its food is that it has reoccurring problems with throwing up, very loose stools or diarrhea or very unpleasant smelling gas. Allergies in a dog can also cause reoccurring infections in one or both ears or hot spots on the animal's body that are uncomfortable and unpleasant. 

The symptoms listed above are normally attributed to allergies but can actually be caused by other illnesses that need immediate attention by a vet. Therefore, if the symptoms come on suddenly in an otherwise healthy, nonallergenic dog, call or visit your vet's office. 

A proper allergy diagnosis can be done via a blood test at the vet's office. Not all vets recommend blood tests for allergies in a dog, but if the problem has been around for a while, this type of test may provide the most accurate information on how to administer treatment. Dog owners are sometimes reluctant to allow blood tests because they can cost hundreds of dollars. Depending on the vet, he may insist on blood tests recommend trying at-home dog allergy remedies as a first step in combating the problem.

 

At-Home Remedies 

Before spending too much money at the vet, try at least one at-home dog allergy remedy. 

For a dog with a severe itching problem, try an oatmeal bath. Like a human, a dog's skin normally responds well to a soothing soak in warm oatmeal water.

Try medicated dog shampoos and conditioners. There are special formulas that soothe a dog's skin and make the skin less itchy because they moisturize and make the skin less flaky. Such shampoos and conditioners are often available at vet offices and pet supply stores.

Change your dog's food. A dog, like a human, can be allergic to one or more ingredients in his normal dog food. The most common ingredients that cause allergic reactions in a dog are proteins (meats) and wheat gluten. By switching brands or changing to a hypo-allergenic food, the dog's allergies may be cured almost instantly.

Some believe that putting a cone around the dog's neck will solve an itching problem, but using a cone without any additional allergy remedy will only cause the dog extreme discomfort. A cone can sometimes be used in conjunction with another treatment. Ask your vet for advice on the use of a cone.

Keep the Dog's Environment Clean 

Many times, a dog that is not house trained comes into contact with urine or feces in his living or sleeping quarters. This type of environment can cause a dog's skin to develop an uncomfortable rash that can cause trigger itching or licking. Preventing this type of skin condition by keeping the area in which the dog normally resides as clean as possible.

Fleas are another huge problem for a dog with allergy problems. While fleas may not be an issue in some parts of the country or world, in hot and tropical climates, fleas can cause huge problems. If a dog shows a sensitivity, other than normal discomfort due to a flea bite, a good flea collar or even prescription medication may be necessary.

In addition,a dog may have a reaction to elements that it encounters on a walk. For example, during the winter, a dog may walk on ice and snow that has been treated with chemicals or salt. Those chemicals or salt may cause the dog to lick its paws endlessly. A dog may also be allergic to certain types of grass, so a walk through a grassy field may cause a similar type of allergic reaction and discomfort.

Over-the-Counter Antihistamines 

With a vet's advice, purchase over-the-counter antihistamines for a dog with allergies. Antihistamines block and treat allergy symptoms just as they do in humans. They help a dog's body react to the irritant that is causing an allergic reaction.The most important thing to remember when using an over-the-counter medication is that a proper dosage is essential. A vet should be able to prescribe the appropriate amount over the phone, based on the dog's breed and weight.

Be Consistent 

Dog allergy remedies can normally be administered at home with little effort and minimal cost. The most difficult aspect of dog allergy remedies is being consistent and continuing treatment for the long term.It's possible that it will take weeks, months or even a year to determine the exact cause of a dog's allergies. In fact, it may be discovered that a dog is allergic to several things, not just one. Determining the cause(s) of a dog's allergies when there are many factors involved can take time. The process can be frustrating and overwhelming. However, remedies for dog allergies are important to ensure that a dog AND its owner live healthy and happy lives.