Dog allergies occur when the dog’s immune system misidentifies a typically harmless substance (allergen) often referred to as a threat that triggers a chain of reactions which attack the substance. Dogs can be prone to many allergies, including flea allergy dermatitis, contact dermatitis, inhalant allergies and food ingredients. 

Allergies in dogs may manifest in the gastrointestinal, upper respiratory, or skin concerns. Based on the article “Comparative Study of Classical and Alternative Therapy in Dogs with Allergies”, from MDPI, research suggests that "food allergies in dogs are constantly increasing, and they are one of the most common causes of dermatological and gastrointestinal problems in small animals". Skin-related sensitivities are prevalent, with red and itchy skin being the telltale allergy sign. 

The dog allergy care option is multimodal and involves several aspects, such as limited allergen exposure, frequent bathing, a special diet, ongoing flea control, and allergy medications. 

Signs of Allergies in Dogs

1. Flea Allergy Dermatitis in Dogs 

Flea allergy dermatitis (FAD) is one of the most common types of dog allergies and is caused by hypersensitivity to flea saliva which contains allergenic proteins, which enter the dog’s skin while fleas feed. A flea bite triggers a reaction in a sensitive dog, which may cause itchiness and skin irritation. Based on the article “A Review Of Flea Allergy Dermatitis in the Dog and Cat”, from Companion Animal Practice, research suggests that “affected dogs may be particularly sensitive in the flanks, caudal and medial thighs, ventral abdomen, lower back, neck and ears. Chewing, licking and scratching of these areas will usually be evident.”. 

The dog allergy care options for flea allergy dermatitis in dogs involve flea removal. Keeping the dog up-to-date on flea products may help to manage exposure to infestations and flea bite allergies.

2. Contact Dermatitis in Dogs

Allergic contact dermatitis is a localized allergy caused by direct contact with an allergen. Contact dermatitis in dogs is rare and triggered by certain chemicals or grasses.

This may cause a rash at the contact point. Redness, itchiness, and hives are other possible visible signs. The dog allergy supportive care options for contact dermatitis may include removing the allergen through bathing or wiping and using short-term antihistamines or steroids.

3. Inhalant and Airborne Allergies in Dogs

An inhalant allergy (also known as an atopy) is an allergic reaction triggered by airborne allergens. Common culprits include pollen from trees, grasses, weeds, mold spores, mildew, and dust. 

Inhalant allergies in dogs may manifest through upper respiratory signs or itchy, irritated skin. Environmental factors may affect a dog's skin or respiratory comfort, which can sometimes show up as occasional scratching or nasal discharge. Pollens, molds, and dust particles frequently cause airborne allergies in dogs. 

4. Mites in Dogs

Mites in dogs may cause two types of allergies: inhalant if the mites are inhaled or airborne (atopic dermatitis) if the mites enter the dog’s skin pores, which can lead to localized skin discomfort. Dogs sensitive to mites can develop red and itchy skin. 

The dog allergy care options for mites in dogs involves using allergy medications. Frequent bathing or wiping helps support allergies by removing the mites from the dog’s skin, while regular cleaning helps to remove mites from the dog’s environment and limit exposure.  

5. Beef Allergies in Dogs

Some dogs may be sensitive to beef. Beef allergies in dogs are widespread because beef is a common protein used in pet food formulas. Dog allergies to beef may manifest with an upset stomach, skin irritation and itchiness.The best dog allergy care options for beef sensitivity is transitioning to a beef-free diet.

6. Chicken Allergies in Dogs

Chicken allergies occur when the dog is sensitive to chicken. Chicken allergies in dogs are common because chicken is a primary protein source widely used in pet food formulas. Dog allergy reactions to chicken include an upset stomach, skin irritation, and itchiness. The correct dog allergy care approach for chicken sensitivity is removing chicken from the dog’s diet.

7. Milk Allergies in Dogs

Dogs may show sensitivity to dairy products such as milk or its primary sugar, lactose. True milk allergies in dogs are uncommon but some dogs may experience digestive issues. The dog allergy care option for milk sensitivity is avoiding milk and other dairy based ingredients in their diet. 

8. Grain Allergies in Dogs

Though less common than often assumed, some dogs may react to certain grains in their food. Grain allergies in dogs  may cause itchy, irritated skin, and an upset stomach. Grain-free or limited-ingredient diets is a supportive care option when grain sensitivity is suspected.

9. Egg Allergies in Dogs

Egg allergies occur when the dog is sensitive to egg whites, egg yolks, or both. Egg allergies in dogs are relatively common, especially chicken egg allergies. Dog allergies to whole eggs, egg yolks, and egg whites manifest with an upset stomach, skin irritation and itchiness. The dog allergy care option for egg sensitivity is removing eggs from the dog’s diet.

What are Allergies in Dogs?

Allergies in dogs are issues in which the immune system overreacts to otherwise harmless substances like pollen, dander, molds, foods, or medications. 

The immune system’s role is to recognize and attack potential threats. Dog allergies occur when the dog’s immune system misidentifies a harmless substance as a threat and triggers an attack against the substance. 

The substances that trick the immune system into misrecognizing them are classified as allergens. The distribution of allergens varies depending on climate and region, but most dog allergens are found in the house and the pet’s food. 

Why May Dogs Develop Sensitivities?

Some dogs may experience immune responses to certain environmental or dietary elements, also known as sensitivities. The exact reason why a dog’s immune system reacts to otherwise harmless substances is still not fully understood. Contributing factors may include changes in climate, increased pollen levels, and shifts in how pet food is produced and processed.

When should you Visit the Vet for a Dog Check up?

It’s a good idea to schedule a veterinary check-up if your dog shows persistent signs of discomfort—such as scratching, skin irritation, or digestive upset. While these signs are not usually urgent, they can impact your dog’s daily comfort and overall well-being.

Identifying the underlying cause of your dog’s sensitivities can be complex, so seeking veterinary guidance early can help you explore appropriate supportive care options. 

How to Support Allergies in Dogs?

1. Identify the Allergen: The first step is identifying the allergen which may involve a food trial or blood, hair, saliva, and intradermal testing. 

2. Provide a Special Diet: Using specialized diets free from the offending protein. Many pet food brands offer hypoallergenic dog foods with elemental amino acids and novel or hydrolyzed proteins. 

3. Use Flea Control Products: Anti-flea products regular use help manage infestations and flea allergy dermatitis. For dogs with already developed flea allergies are removing the fleas. 

4. Limit Allergen Exposure: Limiting exposure is helpful, but not always possible. Using air purifiers, keeping the windows closed, and avoiding walks near trees or plants may help limit exposure.  

5. Practice Frequent Bathing: Frequent bathing or using pet wipes helps remove allergens from the dog’s skin and is critical in supporting atopic dermatitis and contact allergies. 

6. Use Allergy Medications: Oral or injectable meds (antihistamines, steroids, immune-suppressing drugs) and desensitization (allergy shots) are advised for some cases. 

How Can You Determine if Your Dog Has Allergies to Certain Foods? 

You can determine if your dog has allergies to certain foods by conducting a food trial (an elimination diet trial). 

Introduce new food into the dog’s meals, like hydrolyzed, elemental, novel protein, or homemade diets, to perform a food trial for several weeks to clear allergens from the dog’s body. Once the trial period is complete, reintroduce an older food to observe any changes. 

If signs of discomfort appear after reintroducing the food, it may indicate sensitivity to that ingredient. If no signs are observed, the food may be better tolerated in the future. If you have more specific concerns, please consult your veterinarian.