Dogs with allergies typically show signs like persistent itching, red or inflamed skin, frequent paw licking, ear infections, and hair loss. If your dog scratches constantly, chews their paws, or develops skin issues that don't resolve quickly, allergies are likely the culprit and require veterinary diagnosis.
Dogs with allergies typically show signs like persistent itching, red or inflamed skin, frequent paw licking, ear infections, and hair loss. If your dog scratches constantly, chews their paws, or develops skin issues that don't resolve quickly, allergies are likely the culprit and require veterinary diagnosis.
These are the most common type of allergy in dogs. Environmental allergies are triggered by pollen, mold, dust mite, or grass. Most symptoms will appear in a seasonal pattern (i.e., spring or fall), but may be present all year long over time. The affected areas of skin are usually the face, paws, ears, belly and armpits.
These are triggered by flea saliva. Dogs may develop an allergy to flea saliva and will experience extreme itching after being bitten even once or twice. In these cases, the itching is usually worst around the tail base, hind legs, and lower back. In general, flea allergy dermatitis is most common during warmer months but may persist all year long depending on the location.
These are much less common than environmental allergies. Food allergies are usually caused by proteins like chicken, beef, or dairy. Symptoms are year-round and consistent (not seasonal). Unlike environmental allergies, food allergies often include gastrointestinal symptoms like vomiting, diarrhea, or soft stools in addition to skin itching.
Consult a veterinarian if your notice your dog:
If your dog's itching is persistent, worsening, or accompanied by red paws, rash, hives, or hair loss, a licensed vet should evaluate the allergy. Otis offers convenient online care with veterinarians who are experts in dog itch and allergy treatment and management. Otis vets can diagnose your dog's condition, craft a treatment and maintenance plan, and prescribe medications like Apoquel through same-day virtual visits - so you can skip the long waits and stressful car rides.
Veterinarians diagnose allergies through:
Benadryl is considered safe for canine use; however, it is typically ineffective when treating skin allergies. Prescription anti-allergen medications have shown to be far more successful at addressing chronic itching associated with dog allergies.
Sensitive skin is caused by occasional irritation from specific products or environments that your dog comes into contact with on a regular basis. Allergies cause ongoing and often increasing itching and inflammation.
Yes. Veterinary telemedicine is highly effective for diagnosing and managing dog allergies. Otis specializes in online allergy care, offering consultations with licensed veterinarians who can evaluate symptoms through video, prescribe medications, and create long-term management plans - all without the stress of car rides or waiting rooms.
Comprehensive care plans include prescription medications (such as Apoquel, Atopica) and medicated baths or wipes, antibiotics for secondary infections and fish oil supplements.
No. Allergies are a lifelong condition that requires ongoing management. Symptoms can fluctuate depending on the season and location but normally don’t disappear without treatment.
Most dogs develop allergies between ages 1-3, though they can appear at any age. It's rare for puppies under 6 months to have allergies.
