Health: Dog allergies

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Believe it or not, dogs can suffer from allergies as well as cause them--in fact, allergies are all too common among canines. They can't be cured, but they can be treated, both with medication and by protecting your dog, as much as possible, from whatever's making him sick.

Causes

Atopic dermatitis

It usually begins with a seasonal reaction to pollen when the dog is young, and progresses until the dog is allergic to many different substances year-round. Skin irritation usually shows up around the eyes and mouth, armpits, stomach, and anal area. Ear infections are also common.

Your vet can run a skin or blood test to see what's causing the problem, although these aren't always totally accurate and medication can interfere with the results. (Your dog shouldn't have prednisone for a month before the test, or antihistamines for 10 days before.)

Your vet may give your dog steroids for short-term relief from the itching, and immunotherapy (allergy shots) to lesson your dog's sensitivity to allergens long-term.

Flea allergy

Steroids and antihistamines can make your dog less itchy, but the only real treatment is tight flea control in the house and yard, as well as on the dog. Luckily,  [Continued]