When you notice your dog itching, combined with hair loss or red, scaly scabs, then the culprit may be allergies. Here are some tips to help you determine the cause, and the potential treatment, for your dog’s allergies.
Possible Causes of Dog Allergies 

Dog allergies can either be year-round or seasonal. Common causes of year-round allergies include:

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  OMG! I have to sneeze! (Photo credit: Vegard Haugland)

  Food – Sometimes dogs can be sensitive to something in their food, usually a protein or one of the fillers in commercial dog food, and the reaction is going to be constant itching.

• Mold – Mold, either in the food or in your home, can cause some dogs to have itching problems because of the mycotoxins they release.
• Your other pets – Dogs can actually be allergic to cats, especially male or long-haired cats, which put out more cat allergens than others.
• Topical products – Your dog’s shampoo or the perfume you spray on him to make him smell fresh could be causing his allergy problems.

If you notice that your pet is only itching during certain seasons, then you will want to look for sources of allergens that are seasonal. These might include:

• Your grass – Dogs can often be allergic to grass or other outdoor plants.
• Insects – Insects, such as fleas and mosquitoes, are a common source of seasonal itching in dogs. Keep in mind that a flea infestation can enter your home and cause year-round itching.

How to Help 

You may feel tempted to reach for medications to deal with your dog’s allergies, but there is actually a better way. Studies have found that antihistamines only work in about 20 percent of dogs, so you might as well avoid them. The more unnatural chemicals you put into his system, the more problems he may face. Instead, try to treat the allergies in a natural way.

The first step, whenever possible, is to remove the allergen. If your pet is allergic to something like food or mold, you can change the food or get rid of the mold. If the allergen is another pet, try washing that pet regularly. You may not be able to replant your yard, but you can stop using the topical sprays he is reacting to.

If you have eliminated the allergen and have not seen improvement, or if you cannot eliminate the allergen, then consider a natural dog allergy treatment. Several blends of herbs have been shown to help stop the itching and the allergic reaction in dogs. By focusing on a natural treatment, you will not contribute further to the problem, while providing your pet with relief.

The term “man’s best friend” could not apply to any other animal in the world except to your dog. Your four-legged friend gives you daily walks to keep you fit, is there to dry your tears with wet kisses and just gives you unconditional love whenever you are near. So when you see your dog itching and scratching excessively, you worry about your dog’s health.

Excessive itching can be caused by a number of factors, including allergies. People automatically assume that their pet must have a food allergy, although this is the least common allergy for a dog. Instead, people should consider the other pets in their lives that may be causing the dog’s allergies.

Cat Allergen Could Be The Culprit

Does your dog share an environment with long-haired cats or male cats? Theses types of cats carry a known allergen called FelD1, which can cause dogs to itch. The allergen is most commonly found in the cat’s saliva. As the cat bathes itself, the allergen attaches to the skin and dries as it flakes off, getting into the air and on your furnishings that your dog touches. The allergen can be active for over 10 years in a home environment.

Don’t get worried that you now have to get rid of your cat. You can easily take care of the cat allergen by bathing your cat regularly. You can purchase cat shampoos that specifically handles the allergen to lessen how much of it enters the air.

Also use a HEPA filter on your vacuum when you do your regularly cleaning or purchase a HEPA air filtration system (the small types you can plug into the wall) to remove more of the floating allergen flakes. If your dog and cat likes to share a chair to lounge on, you can purchase a spray that will neutralize the allergen on fabrics and furnishings.

Have A Happy, And Itch Free, Dog

Always take your dog to the vet so your furry friend can get a full checkup to determine that reason for the itching isn’t caused by any serious medical condition. Once you know it is caused by an allergy, take active steps to determine what your dog is allergic to so you can take the appropriate steps to make your dog itch-free.

When people see their dog scratching a lot, they automatically assume it has fleas. Although flea bites do cause itching, the truth is that dogs can be allergic to certain food products, environmental pollutants, bug bites, dust mites, pollen and exposure to the sun. Dogs can be allergic to, among other things, another animal and even to their very own owners. These all cause dogs to have itchy skin.

Dogs that are observed scratching more than usual should have their skins checked carefully. If the skin is red and scaly or scabby, or the owner notices unusual hair loss, the dog should be taken to the vet. Sometimes, a dog’s paws will become swollen from constant licking and chewing. All these signs are symptoms of allergies.

Diagnosing dog allergies that cause itching.

Dogs can be allergic to the same substances that cause human allergies. In order to identify the specific allergen, the veterinarian performs the same types of tests that allergists perform on humans. Dogs may need to be put on an elimination diet to determine if they are allergic to a certain food. Skin and blood tests may be performed. If the problem cannot be diagnosed, or treatment seems ineffective, the dog should be seen by a veterinary dermatologist.

Natural Remedies.

Some of the same remedies to relieve the allergic itching that are prescribed for humans are also prescribed for dogs. This includes antihistamines and steroids. There are also a number of natural remedies that can be tried.

• The dog should be bathed weekly with a soothing shampoo recommended by a vet.

• Feed the dog only hypoallergenic food.

• Grind oatmeal into a powder and rub into the coat. It relieves itching, but may need to be applied several times a day.

• Rub baking soda into the coat and skin to relieve itching.

• Avoid using chemicals on your pet. Flea collars should be avoided, since they contain toxic chemicals causing allergic reactions in many dogs.

• Dogs that have allergies to the sun need to have sunscreen applied before going outside.

• Adding some herbs and fatty acids to the diet, with the approval of your vet, may alleviate the itching.

• There are chewable dog allergy tablets with herbs and special herbal shampoos that can be purchased through your vet or online that are designed specifically to treat a dog’s itchy skin.

A food allergy in dogs can start at any age, but they are most commonly found in dogs that are 2 years of age and older. Studies have shown that dogs who consistently eat the same food each day and the same source, such as the brand of food or the same source of protein, are more susceptible of developing a food allergy. When a dogs immune system continually deals with the same type of allergens for several years, it may end up developing negative reactions toward the source of food.

Intolerance or Allergies 

It is important to not confuse food intolerance with food allergies. Both are often the most difficult aliments for pets to diagnose and the symptoms of allergies and intolerance can be uncomfortable for your dog. Food intolerance does not cause the same type of reactions as an allergy, such as skin problems and itching. In some dogs a food allergy can literally begin within a day and the allergen could be due to something the dog has eaten for years with no problems. In most cases, dogs with food allergies will the symptoms will increase and decrease overtime and new symptoms may occur as other symptoms diminish. Some of the most common chronic symptoms of allergies may include:

• Hair loss
• Flaky skin
• Skin hives and rashes
• Itchy paws and feet, which often leads to chewing at paws
• Dry skin
• Itchy skin
• Chronic vomiting
• Recurrent ear infections
• Chronic diarrhea
• Recurrent hot spots and skin infections
• Frequent bowel movements

Most common dog food allergens

It has been shown that specific ingredients that commonly found in dog foods have a higher tendency to cause dog food allergies than other ingredients. Some of the most common ingredients in dog food that may trigger food allergies may include:

• Beef
• Chicken
• Eggs
• Dairy products including cheese and milk
• Wheat
• Corn
• Soy
• Yeast
• Certain spices and/or additives

Treating Dog Food Allergies 

Dogs with a food allergy usually will not respond to a steroid or anti-histamine treatment, or they may have a limited response that only lasts a day or two, before symptoms will return. Typically treatment for food allergies in dogs is treatment with an exclusion diet. This type of diet involves removing one ingredient at a time from his diet for two weeks. In most situations this means serving him special foods or homemade food until the allergen can be identified. Once a particular ingredient is excluded and his symptoms disappear or improve, it is usually an indication that the food excluded was causing the reactions.

Dogs, like humans, can and do suffering from a number of allergies. However, in the dog world some of the reactions can be far more severe, especially given the fact that dogs use their noses far more than any human could ever use all of his five senses.

A dog can suffer from breathing, skin, and digestion allergies. Unfortunately, many of these conditions won’t become apparent until a dog tends to be older, which makes puppy life rather difficult. Common symptoms can include conjunctivitis in the eyes, frequent sneezing, vomiting, runny eyes, frequent scratching, and diarrhea. An allergic reaction in a dog can include one or multiple symptoms, depending how the dog’s body is reacting to something. Veterinarians who are trained to look for dog allergies early on, however, will spot these conditions and prescribe both treatments and medication to alleviate symptoms as well as help dogs recover.

Treatment for a dog’s allergies can usually include prescribed chemical treatments. However, drug and chemical treatments can be harsh on an animal, especially one never previously exposed to such cures. A number of natural treatments and practices can provide significant relief as well. Additionally, natural treatments provide far less negative side effects for dogs.

First, once an allergy is identified, the reaction programs can be reduced greatly if exposure can be reduced. Second, where inhalation of dust or dander is a problem, regular cleaning and vacuuming of the dog’s bed as well as washing the dog weekly can reduce a lot of sources triggering an inhalation allergy. Further, a food allergy can be alleviated with a controlled diet under the advice of a veterinarian. With the causal food source eliminated, the vomiting and diarrhea symptoms should die down and disappear as the dog’s system removes the remaining food causing problems. Finally, skin reactions can be soothed and alleviated with natural remedies such as oatmeal, aloe, and medicated shampoos.

If your dog is scratching, biting and coughing he might have allergies. Although food might seem like the most logical allergen, experts say this is usually one of the least likely culprits.

Second-hand smoke, perfumes and dyes and fleas are some of the most common household allergens for canines.

Coughing Bronchitis and airway irritation often manifests with coughing and sneezing. Smoke is as dangerous for your pets as it is for your family. If there is no way to remove smoke from your environment, talk to your vet about testing your pet for bronchitis.

Scratching and Skin Irritation: Treating the Symptoms Treating for Fleas: Develop a flea control plan. Wash or discard all bedding, coats and cloth chew toys. Clean hard surfaces and vacuum throughout the house. Treat your home for fleas and eggs with an eco-friendly extermination product.

Treating for Dust Mites and Dander Just like we humans are allergic to some pets, our dogs can be allergic to their human families and other pets in the household.

Clean all areas where your pet hangs out thoroughly from top to bottom. Wash all fabric curtains, floor mats, bedding and other washable items in the washing machine with hypoallergenic laundry soap. Vacuum carpeted areas, upholstery, mattresses and drapes.

Eliminating Dye and Perfume You dog may be allergic to his care products. Switching to herbal allergy treatments and soap products that are naturally chemical-free relieves itching. Switching might prevent future allergic reactions caused by avoiding harsh dyes and harmful perfumes.

After cleaning your home, treat your dog to a relaxing chemical-free bath. dog allergy products. Natural dog allergy products

are often less expensive than allergy shots and prescription meds. Another benefit of using natural treatments is that there is less likelihood that your dog will develop new allergies to the ingredients.

It’s not just people who can have allergies; animals can have them, too — including dogs. There are three main types of canine allergies:

Fleas.Some dogs are highly allergic to fleas and flea bites. This allergy is relatively easy to diagnose and treat.

Inhalants.This is the most common allergen in dogs. They can include airborne molds, pollens and also dust mites.

Food Allergies.About 10% of all dog allergies are related to foods they eat. These allergies can cause a lot of itching.

Dog allergies combined with a compromised immune system can be very hard on your dog. The result can be secondary infections of the ears, skin or urinary tract. Some breeds are prone to allergies; bulldogs, pugs, terriers and retrievers fall into this group.

Signs of Allergies

Dogs with allergies usually show symptoms such as skin issues and itching.Flea allergiescause chewing and itching at the base of the tail. In some cases, a single flea bite can cause a very severe allergic reaction.

Inhalant allergiescan come and go as weather and seasons change. Indoor heating and air conditioning can affect them. Some allergies are worse in summer than in winter, but dust and mold-sensitive dogs are itchier during the indoor winter months.

Food allergiesmay cause skin and coat problems, including itching. One sign of food allergies in dogs is incessant paw-licking. Proteins are usually the cause.

Types of Allergy Treatments

If your dog shows the symptoms and signs of allergies, start by taking her to the vet. The vet will likely first screen for other more serious issues like mites, thyroid problems or mange. Prescription topical flea treatments will work, but holistic treatments have fewer side effects and are much safer and healthier for your dog.

A vet or a veterinary dermatologist can help to determine exactly which allergens are causing your dog’s issues, but testing can be expensive and stressful on your dog. You can help the situation at home by vacuuming more frequently, buying a good air purifier and/or using an air filter within your home’s heating/cooling system.

Improving your dog’s diet can help as well. Always try natural dog allergy remedies first whenever possible, as chemical-based treatments tend to have harmful side effects that will tax your canine’s immune system.

Just like people, dogs can have allergies or food sensitivities. In fact, allergies and the symptoms they induce have become the top reason that pet owners visit their veterinarian. Often, medications are prescribed to control symptoms, but this may not be the only option. With medications comes the possibility for other side effects, and medications only treat the symptoms, not the problem. The best way to treat your dog’s allergies is to isolate the allergen and try several dog allergy remedies” natural dog allergy remedies.

Causes Causes of allergies can range from:

• Flea and tick bites
• Foods such as gluten, corn, milk, eggs
• Environmental irritants like grass, dust, mold, or cleaning products

Gluten allergies, or celiac disease, are quite common in dogs and easily treatable. Gluten is found in wheat and is a protein. It is an ingredient that is found in a large variety of dog foods. If untreated, it can cause several symptoms that are at best irritating for your dog, and at worst, life threatening.

Symptoms Symptoms to gluten and other allergens are usually first noticed on the skin of your pet. They may scratch constantly and the appearance of red raised bumps is not uncommon. Red itchy eyes are another symptom. Bowels may become affected when dogs intestines become inflamed, and they may experience diarrhea. Nutrients cannot be absorbed and your pet may lose weight and become cranky. Sneezing and snoring due to inflamed throat and sinuses are a possibility.

Remedies The first step in treatment is the isolation of the allergen. Your local vet can draw your pet’s blood to determine what they are allergic to, or this can be done by a process of elimination. Allergies are forever, and the best treatment is to eliminate the culprit from your dog’s environment or food source. If gluten sensitivity is the issue, find a gluten free food for your pet, there are a variety of choices available, or research making your own dog food. That way you know exactly what is in it. Treat skin symptoms by bathing your pet often, but be careful here. Some pet shampoos have fragrances or other ingredients that will irritate the skin. Instead, give your pet a bath in a combination of oatmeal and warm water to soothe itchy skin and rashes. Include essential fatty acids into your dog’s diet in the form of flaxseed or salmon oils. These are known to reduce symptoms from allergic reactions and boost immunity so allergies are kept to a minimum. Keep your pet indoors if the allergy source is grass or pollen. Vacuum often and wipe your pet down so allergens do not stick to the skin.

Pet allergies are becoming increasingly common, especially allergies to gluten containing foods. While medications like antihistamines or steroidal creams may be necessary for extreme cases, natural remedies may be just as effective, and safer, than meds. Most people love their dogs and treat them like one of the family, so maintaining their health is an important step in having a happy pet that will be around for years to come.

Allergy season is approaching and doctors are forecating that the 2013 allergy season may be one of the roughest seasons for those with allergies than they have seen in decades. The drastic weather changes occuring across the globe are creating a rapid temperature change, which creates trees to and grass to pollunate faster and more heavily than when the seasons change gradually. Although there are numerous over the counter and prescription medications that allergy sufferers can take for relief, there are also many natural remedies that can be very beneficial and have little to no risk of side effects. Angelica archangelica is a biennial plant with sweetly scented stems and roots. Angelica has been shown to be a great herbal treatment for allergies, specifically dog allergies.

Typical alllergy symptoms include a stuff

y nose, chronic headaches, breathing problems and congestion. When consumed, wild angelica has properties similar to an expectorant medication, which allows the herb to clear nasal passages and break up congestion. Aside from congestion relief, angelica also allows the blood to flow through the body easier. This can decrease puffiness in the eyes, as well as the itchinees and swelling that comes from dog allergies.

The recommended dosage of angelica for the treatment of any type of allergy is between 300mg and 500mg. Angelica archangelica can be bought in pill form, and when taken on a daily basis, can decrease allergy symptoms, both seasonal and pet related. Angelica archangelica has been used in Chinese medicine for thousands of years.

Although most people aren’t aware of it, dogs can suffer from allergies. Surprisingly, they are often affected by the same allergens as humans. If unaware of this, it could be easy to overlook or miss the signs of a dog dealing with an allergic reaction.

The most common dog allergies involve the skin. Scratching is common in dogs, but If a dog is scratching excessively in a specific area he could be dealing with more than the occasional itch. Other common symptoms of skin allergies in dogs are excessive chewing or gnawing on their paws and excessive licking. Any, or all, of these behaviors can result in inflammation of the area or red, moist and even scabbed areas of skin. In addition to dog skin allergies, other dog allergy symptoms include vomiting, diarrhea, sneezing, snoring and runny or itchy eyes.

For a dog exhibiting any of these symptoms, discovering what is prompting the allergic reaction is the key to effective treatment. Just like people, dogs can be allergic to pollen, mold, dust mites and dander from other pets. Certain things used in the home, such as perfume, cleaning products and cigarette smoke, can also be the culprit. A food allergy is another thing to consider, although it may be harder to diagnose since most dog foods contain a combination of ingredients.

There are medicinal remedies for pet allergies but many dog allergies can be treated naturally. A natural dog allergy remedy can be as simple as an oatmeal bath for itchy skin, increased brushing and grooming, frequent washing of the dog’s bedding or changing dog food. Allergy remedies that require medication can be effective at alleviating the dog’s symptoms and discomfort. However, reducing or eliminating exposure to the allergens is more effective and provides longer lasting results.