Some dog breeds are more susceptible to allergies than others(care for Hypoallergenic Dogs). This may be because of small nasal passages, allergic reactions to flea bites, irritable stomachs that make digesting food difficult, or they may be allergic to their own hair and dander. Dogs that have allergies include the following breeds: Bichon Frise, terriers, retrievers, beagles, setters, and boxers. All dogs have the potential to be allergic to something, however.
Common Signs of Allergies(care for Hypoallergenic Dogs)
The most common signs of allergies include raw skin where the dog has scratched, patches of hair missing, red skin, hives, coughing, sneezing, excessive chewing and licking of paws, watery eyes, vomiting, and diarrhea. While these symptoms may go away after a few days, you should monitor your dog’s behavior to see if the symptoms return. If they do, then you should take your dog to see a vet. Sometimes changing the type of dog food or buying a flea collar or spray is enough to help eliminate your dog’s allergy problems.
Impact of Allergies on Dog Behavior
When a dog is suffering from allergies, their mood may change. They may become irritable, lethargic, clingy, or angry. Discipline will not work when the dog is having allergy issues. To effectively address your dog’s allergies, identify the cause and keep a journal of their activities and symptoms to share with your veterinarian. This will help them recommend the right treatment.
Specific Allergy Scenarios(care for Hypoallergenic Dogs)
Breathing Issues in Smaller Breeds
Some smaller breeds may have breathing issues as they age, there is little that can be done except to keep their sleeping area clean, vacuum often, and consider buying a hepa filter that will trap dust, particles, and other air pollutants that are in the air. While it is important that all dogs get their exercise, when it is cold outside, keep small breeds indoors and play with them. This will keep them from getting head colds, which could make breathing even worse.
Flea Allergies
If you notice that your dog has fleas or that they have been bitten by fleas, you should bathe your dog using a shampoo that will kill fleas and their eggs. You may need to rid your home of fleas as well so that reinfestation does not occur. Buy carpet spray or if the problem is too big, then you may have to call an exterminator. Once the fleas are gone, you should spray your dog every time the dog goes outside. This will prevent new attacks from occurring. If the dog has open bites or wounds from scratching, you will have to wait for them to heal before using a spray or shampoo on your dog.
Food Allergies
Vomiting can occur if your dog is allergic to the food it receives. You should first visit the vet to see if the problem isn’t internal. They may recommend a new food for the dog. This should stop the vomiting and diarrhea.
Allergies to Hair and Dander
Dogs that are allergic to their hair and dander have the worst allergies because little can be done. Groom your dog regularly by brushing daily to remove hair and dander, and bathing it monthly. Your vet may prescribe an antihistamine if the allergies persist.