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Dog Allergies: Types, Symptoms, and Treatment Options

By Julia WrenfieldUpdated August 4, 20261 min read
Evidence-based · Sources checked
{"en": "Golden retriever scratching behind ear with visible skin irritation from allergies", "es": "Perro golden retriever rasc\u00e1ndose la oreja con irritaci\u00f3n visible en la piel por alergias", "fr": "Golden retriever se grattant l'oreille avec irritation cutan\u00e9e visible due aux allergies", "de": "Golden Retriever kratzt sich am Ohr mit sichtbarer Hautreizung durch Allergien", "nl": "Golden retriever die aan zijn oor krabt met zichtbare huidirritatie door allergie\u00ebn", "pt": "Golden retriever co\u00e7ando a orelha com irrita\u00e7\u00e3o de pele vis\u00edvel causada por alergias", "it": "Golden retriever che si gratta l'orecchio con visibile irritazione della pelle da allergie"}

Allergies are one of the most common reasons dogs visit the vet.

Types of Allergies

  • Environmental (Atopy): pollen, dust mites, mould, grass
  • Food allergy: most common triggers are beef, chicken, dairy, wheat
  • Flea allergy dermatitis: reaction to flea saliva — a single bite causes intense itching

Signs

  • Chronic itching of paws, face, armpits, groin
  • Recurrent ear infections
  • Skin redness, rashes, or hot spots
  • Vomiting or diarrhoea (food allergy)

Treatment Options

  • Apoquel: fast-acting anti-itch medication
  • Cytopoint: monthly injection targeting the itch pathway
  • Allergen-specific immunotherapy
  • Strict flea prevention: essential for all dogs
#dog allergies types treatment#dog health#dog nutrition#forpetshealthcare

Sources & further reading

This article is based on peer-reviewed veterinary research and reputable animal-health sources. Explore the underlying science in our Research Library.

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Disclaimer:This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute veterinary advice. Always consult a qualified veterinarian for your pet's health concerns.

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