Skin allergies are a common issue our best friends face, but not every dog has the same kind. The problem is that you’ll never know your dog’s specific allergies until they have been affected. To stay ahead, we’ll help you understand this common skin problem. 

How Do Skin Allergies Happen in Dogs?

Basically, an allergy in dogs is an overreaction of the immune system. Normally, the immune system helps fight off harmful pathogens such as bacteria and viruses. 

But in an allergic reaction, the immune system perceives other harmless substances as equally dangerous, even though they are not. As a result, the body produces antibodies that bind to mast cells, which are cells involved in allergic reactions. 

When the dog gets exposed to the specific allergen again, these mast cells release chemicals such as histamine, which trigger itching, inflammation, and redness. 

What Dog Breeds are Prone to Skin Allergies?

Some dogs are prone to skin allergies, even though all types of dogs can experience them. This is typically due to factors such as genetic predisposition and environmental exposure levels. Here are a few examples of them:

• Golden Retrievers. Golden Retrievers have thick coats and skin folds that can easily trap debris and moisture, making them prone to skin allergies and infections. 

• Pugs. Due to their characteristic facial wrinkles, Pugs also have an increased risk of skin allergies. Their skin folds also make them prone to skin fold dermatitis.

• Shih Tzus. Along with a genetic predisposition, the Shih Tzu’s beautiful coat easily traps common allergens.

• German Shepherds. German Shepherds are genetically predisposed to skin allergies such as canine atopic dermatitis.

• Labrador Retrievers. Labradors tend to produce more antibodies that trigger the release of histamines, resulting in a susceptibility to skin allergies. 

• Bichon Frise. These dogs have a delicate skin barrier, making them prone to this skin condition. 

• Cocker Spaniels. Cocker Spaniels are another breed prone to skin allergies due to their double coat and floppy ears. 

• Bulldogs. Both English and French Bulldogs carry an increased risk due to their prominent skin folds. 

What Causes Skin Allergies in Dogs?

Allergic reactions are generally caused by substances that can be found in a dog’s daily life. Some of which are a core part of their routine. These include:

Environmental Allergens

These allergens are the most common causes of canine skin allergies. Dirt, dust, pollen, and mold are everywhere, even in well-maintained homes. It only takes a small amount of these allergens to create a lasting effect on dogs that are allergic to them.

Plus, these allergens are extremely common outside, which is where dogs love to play and explore. In some cases, the abundance of allergens increases depending on the season, which can worsen the skin allergy. 

Flea Saliva

Fleas are a common parasite in dogs, but what creates the specific allergic reaction is their saliva. Even a single flea bite can cause a multitude of problems on a dog’s skin, which commonly happens on the base of the tail, belly, and legs. 

Food Allergens

Dogs can also have skin allergies to specific types of food. There isn’t a single type of food that dogs are allergic to, which means that your dog can potentially have specific reactions to certain kinds. 

Usually, the common food allergens that cause skin allergies in dogs include chicken, beef, soy, wheat, and dairy. If your dog is allergic, eating food to which it is allergic will also cause specific internal issues, often relating to the gastrointestinal system. 

What are the Signs of Dog Skin Allergies?

If your dog has any of these signs, then it most likely has a skin allergy.

• Excessive Itching and Scratching. If your dog tends to scratch more often without stopping, then it could be a sign of skin allergies. Affected dogs may rub their bodies against furniture or scratch with their paws. This is commonly seen on the face, tail, and ears. 

• Licking or Chewing. Aside from scratching, a dog that has skin allergies tends to lick or chew at the affected areas. These are common on paws and the base of the tail.  

• Redness and Swelling. The allergic reaction and persistent scratching can result in red and swollen skin. If the irritation worsens significantly, these areas may develop into sores or hot spots. 

• Hair Loss and Bald Patches. Skin allergies can eventually lead to hair loss and balding, especially in areas where the dog frequently scratches and bites. 

• Recurrent Infections. The persistent skin damage ultimately leads to bacterial and fungal infections. Compromised skin easily lets in these infectious agents, which are common in the ears, face, and lower abdomen. 

• Hot Spots. When dogs scratch, lick, or chew on their skin for far too long, hot spots can occur. These painful patches of moist skin feel warm to the touch, may bleed, or have an unpleasant odor.

• Skin Odor and Discharge. Skin affected by secondary infections can smell foul due to the growth of bacteria or fungi. These may also present with discharge. 

• Gastrointestinal Discomfort. While skin allergies from food present as rashes or irritation, they can also affect the dog’s gastrointestinal system. This results in vomiting, decreased appetite, and gas.