How can I help my dog with an allergy rash
Skin allergies in dogs
Treatment
No one size fits all, and every dog with a skin allergy needs a slightly different treatment plan. However, its likely that your vet will suggest some or all of the following:
Avoid your dogs triggers
If you know what your dog is allergic to, its best to try to avoid those factors as much as possible. However, even if you dont know what your dog is allergic to, there are still many things that you can do to reduce the chance of them flaring up:
- Regularly de-flea them (as well as other pets and your home).
- Avoid walking them when the pollen count is high.
- Avoid walking them in long grass (or rinse them off well afterwards).
- Avoid sprays, aerosols, perfumes, and air fresheners in the household.
- Vacuum and dust regularly.
- Feed them a diet specially designed for sensitive skin (recommended by your vet).
Anti-itch medication
There are certain medications that can be used to reduce itchiness, such as:
- Steroid tablets and spray (such as Prednisolone tablets, Medrone tablets and Cortavance spray).
- Lokivetmab injection (Cytopoint)
- Oclacitinib tablets (Apoquel)
The exact drug your vet prescribes will depend on your dogs symptoms, how long they need to be treated for, and your budget.
Supplements, shampoos and antihistamines
Most dogs with skin allergies benefit from the following:
- A skin supplement containing essential fatty acids
- A topical emollient shampoo (skin calming)
- Daily antihistamines
Its important to be aware that these treatments are often useful when used alongside other treatments (and can reduce the amount of other medications that are needed), but are unlikely to control the problem on their own.
Immunotherapy
If your dog has been allergy tested, it may be possible to desensitise them to their triggers with immunotherapy. Immunotherapy involves injecting your dog with a tiny amount of what they are allergic to, to get their body used to it. The injections work slowly over time, and usually need to be given for a few years (sometimes for life). Unfortunately, immunotherapy doesnt work for every dog, and in many cases, medication is still needed to reduce symptoms. Its also not possible to use immunotherapy for all types of allergy.
Other treatments
Dog Allergies
Am I allergic to my dog?
A dog is mans best friend that is, unless the man is allergic to his dog.
Pet allergies are common in the United States. According to the Asthma and Allergy Foundation of America, 15 to 30 percent of all Americans are affected. Although allergies to cats are about twice as common, allergic reactions to dogs tend to be more severe. This is especially the case in those with asthma.
Keep reading to learn about lifestyle changes and medications that can help treat dog allergies.
Dogs secrete proteins that end up in their dander (dead skin), saliva, and urine. An allergic reaction occurs when a sensitive persons immune system reacts abnormally to the usually harmless proteins. Different breeds produce different dander, so its possible to be more allergic to some dogs than others.
The allergen eventually finds its way into the animals fur. From there, it collects in carpets, on clothing, on walls, and between couch cushions. The pet hair itself is not an allergen, but the hair can hold dust and dander.
Pet dander can remain airborne for long periods of time as well. It can eventually find its way into your eyes or lungs.
The symptoms of a dog allergy may range from mild to severe. Symptoms may not appear for several days after exposure in people with low sensitivity.
Some clues you may be allergic to dogs include:
- swelling and itching in the membranes of the nose or around the eyes
- redness of the skin after being licked by a dog
- coughing, shortness of breath, or wheezing within 15 to 30 minutes of exposure to allergens
- rash on the face, neck, or chest
- a severe asthma attack (in someone with asthma)
Children with dog allergies will often develop eczema in addition to the above symptoms. Eczema is a painful inflammation of the skin.
People used to believe that exposing a newborn to the family dog could cause a child to develop a pet allergy. Thankfully for dog owners, the opposite appears to be true. Several studies in the past few years including one published in the
The only surefire way to get rid of a pet allergy is to remove the pet from your home. There are, however, ways to minimize your exposure to allergens and lessen your symptoms if you dont want to part with Fluffy.
Medications
Here are some medications and treatments that can help you manage allergies and asthma:
- Antihistamines are over-the-counter (OTC) medications such as Benadryl, Claritin, Allegra, and Clarinex OTC that can help relieve itching, sneezing, and runny nose.
- Nasal corticosteroids such as Flonase (now available over the counter) or Nasonex may reduce inflammation and control symptoms.
- Cromolyn sodium is an OTC nasal spray that may help reduce symptoms, especially if its used before they develop.
- Decongestants make it easier to breathe by shrinking swollen tissues in the nasal passage. These are available in oral form or as a nasal spray.
- Allergy shots (immunotherapy) expose you to the animal protein (allergen) thats causing the reaction and help your body become less sensitive, reducing symptoms. Shots are given by an allergist and are often used in more severe cases for long-term treatment.
- Leukotriene modifiers are prescription medications that may be recommended if you cant tolerate nasal antihistamines or corticosteroids. Due to
the risk of severe behavioral and mood changes , montelukast (Singulair) will only be used if there arent any suitable alternatives.
Natural remedies
Some people with dog allergies may find that a saline (salt water) rinse daily to clear nasal passages of allergens can help. A nasal lavage can control symptoms such as congestion and postnasal drip.
OTC saline sprays and nasal lavage kits are readily available. You can also make your own by mixing 1/8 teaspoon of table salt with distilled water.
Lifestyle changes
There are several things dog owners can do around the home to reduce allergens. They include:
- setting up dog-free zones (certain rooms, such as a bedroom, where the dog is not allowed)
- bathing the dog weekly using a pet-friendly shampoo (done by a non-allergic person)
- removing carpeting, upholstered furniture, horizontal blinds, curtains, and any other items that may attract dander
- using high-efficiency particulate air (HEPA) purifiers to reduce airborne allergens in the home
- keeping the dog outside (only in certain climates in a well-contained area and under humane conditions)
- looking into hypoallergenic dog breeds
- using a trial period when introducing a new pet to the family to assess family members reactions to the new dog
Many of the lifestyle changes and allergy medications listed above can help you to reduce uncomfortable symptoms if you love dogs and dont want to give up being around them.
An allergist can perform tests and tell you how severe your dog allergy is and what types of treatments can help. Talk to your doctor about your allergy and your treatment options.
15 Proven Home Remedies for Dog Skin Allergies Itching
Are you looking for effective home remedies for dog skin allergies itching? Then youre in the right place.
We know how often dogs get into bushes that turn out to be bad for them (poison ivy, hello) or how their friendliness toward bees can result in an emergency vet visit. But we cant blame them. After all, theyre our best friends, and we love them endlessly.
So if your puppys itching, whether from an allergy or recklessness, you should know the best homemade remedies to help your pet. Heres what well cover:
Why Is Your Dog Itchy?
Scratching can lead to inflammation and skin wounding, resulting in infections. But before you can provide itch relief for your dogs, you should learn the reasons behind the issue.
Dog allergies are more common than we think. At least 20% of doggies have an allergy from pollen to food, shampoo, and even anti-flea meds. They require special treatment or might need a good limited ingredient dog food.
But what else can cause itching in dogs? Here are the main culprits:
- Fleas
- Ticks
- Mites
- Dry skin
- Skin infections
- Autoimmune diseases
- Nuts and dairy products
Dog Allergy Symptoms
To learn how to help an itchy dog suffering from allergies, you should first identify the symptoms. Its not just the itching. Allergic reactionscan sometimes be fatal, so knowing how to diagnose one might save your doggies life.
Have you ever wondered why dogs lick their paws? Well, sometimes its a sign of an allergy perhaps the grass outside was recently cut, or your puppy found allergy-triggering plants.
Here are a few more symptoms:
- Coughing or sneezing
- Runny nose
- Eye discharge
- Diarrhea
- Hives
- Itching
- Inflamed skin
- Eyes, face, and lips swelling
- Ear infections
Now, lets check the most effective home remedies for dog itching.
Home Remedies for Dogs Skin Allergies
Call your vet first if you suspect your dogs having an allergic reaction. Depending on its severity, your pet might be in grave danger.
On a brighter note, most dog allergies arent life-threatening. Theyll often cause itching and rashes, but theres more than one dog irritated skin home remedy you can use to help your pet.
Dealing With Irritants
If your pup suddenly gets itchy, its best to investigate any recent changes in its life. Maybe you washed its bed with a new laundry detergent. Did the groomer use anew shampoo?Are you trying out a different dry dog food?
The possibilities are endless, so its best to think about your specific situation. Meanwhile, you might be wondering what can I put on my dog to relieve itching? Lets see.
Baking Soda for Itchy Dog
Baking soda is a chemical compound that can relieve your pups itchiness due to its anti-inflammatory properties.
Just mix soda with water in equal amounts (50/50) to form a thick paste. Then, spread it on your pups rash. Leave it for 20 minutes, and wash it away with lukewarm water.
But be careful. Your pooch shouldnt eat the paste, as itcan betoxic for dogs when ingested.
Coconut Oil
One of the many natural remedies for a dogs itchy skin is coconut oil. It can penetrate the skin to hydrate, improve elasticity, and soothe the itch. Also, the oil is anti-inflammatory, so the rash will likely heal faster.
Spread some coconut oil over your puppys inflamed patch two times a day for a few days, and your pet should be fine.
Apple Cider Vinegar for Dogs Skin
Apple cider vinegar (ACV) is acidic, with antiseptic and antibacterial properties. On top of that, it can promote skin healing. However, dogs skin is more sensitive than humans, so dilute one part vinegar with three parts water to avoid dryness.
ACV is also among the best home remedies for fleas on dogs. You can spray the diluted vinegar on your puppys coat, avoiding the eyes. It wont kill the insects, but the smell will repel them.
Dont use apple cider vinegar on open wounds. It stings and will irritate the skin even more.
Herbal Tea Soaks
Another one of the many home remedies for dog skin allergies itching is tea. Herbal tea soaks can help your pup feel better as they soothe the itching for a while.
Fill your bathtub with warm water and place a few tea bags inside for a couple of minutes. Wait for the water tocool down a bit, so it doesnt burn your pups skin and bathe your dog. Appropriate teas include:
- Green tea
- Chamomile
- Calendula
Colloidal Oatmeal Baths
Heres one more soothing bath for an itchy dog. Oats are famous for calming skin irritations and making the hair soft and shiny.
To prepare the bath, take one cup of ground oats or grind them in a food processor. Then, add them to a pot filled with six cups of room-temperature water and stir.
Once you wash your pup with its shampoo and conditioner, pour the oatmeal water over your dog and rub it into its coat. Let it sit for 1020 minutes and towel dry it. You dont have to wash it off.
Aloe Vera
While we know many home remedies for dog skin allergies itching, few are as effective as Aloe Vera. It will help your dogs skinheal and soothe the irritation. You can either extract it from the plant or buy a gel.
An excellent option you can add to your dogs diet for an upsettummy is Aloe Lifes Digestive Aid and Skin Treatment on Amazon. Its made specifically for animals and will soften the skin and decrease the itchiness of allergies, flea bites, and skin abrasions.
Plain Unflavored Yogurt
Yogurt is full of protein and probiotics that are good for dogs. Plus, they love the taste. Its also one of the best home remedies for dog allergies as it improves your poochs immune system and gut.
You can feed your pup a spoonful of yogurt once a day, but be careful not to overdo it as some dogs are lactose intolerant.
Vitamin E Oil
Vitamin E cant treat allergic reactions, but it can soothe the rashes and bring temporary comfort due to its moisturizing effects. Putting a few oil drops in your pups bath can help overall skin health and speed up rash healing.
You should apply dog itching remedies like Vitamin E oil sparingly and in places where the dog cant lick it off. Too much Vitamin E in a pups diet can lead toblood clotting problems.
Epsom Salts
Epsom salt or bath salt is a chemical compound that can assist in the healing of your dogs itchy skin. Also, it will improve swelling due to allergies and relieve tender skin.
Dissolve some salt in your dogs bath to enjoy the benefits.
Licorice Root
One of the best herbal remedies for dog allergies is the licorice root. Ancient Egyptians used it for lung, kidney, and liver disease. Nowadays, its been found to help wound healing and soothe dermatitis symptoms like itching and inflammation.
You can apply licorice root topicals to your pups skin to calm the burning and itching of allergies or irritants.
Witch Hazel
Witch hazel can be an excellent remedy for a dogs itchy, dry skin. Its a plant with anti-inflammatory properties that can heal your pups itchy patches faster. But excessive usecan cause more dryness, so apply with care and never as a long-term solution.
You can find witch hazel in most drug stores. Make sure that it doesnt contain alcohol, as it can irritate your dogs skin even more.
Olive Oil
Weve all heard about the amazing benefits of olive oil for our health. Its rich in healthy fats, contains many antioxidants, has anti-inflammatory properties, and is also good for the skin.
So, if youre wondering how to relieve your dogs itchy skin, you can safely turn to good old olive oil. Just rub a few drops onto the inflamed, itchy spot. But dont overdo it, as too much oil will make your pets hair and skin the perfect environment for bacterial growth.
Quercetin
Quercetin is aflavonoid found in plants and foods like onions, apples, buckwheat, and red wine. This compound can soothe inflammation and provide relief, so its one of the fantastic natural dog itching remedies.
Quercetin usually comes in the form of pills, and you should give it to your pup on an empty stomach. But like all supplements, contact your vet before starting and ask them for more information.
CBD Topicals and Oils
CBD, or cannabidiol, is a compound thats become incredibly popular in recent years for its exceptional health properties for humans and pets. The best CBD oil for dogs can soothe pain, decrease inflammation, battle stress and anxiety, and relieve itchy skin.
Its also one of the most appropriate dog licking paws remedies since it works on the central nervous system and promotes calmness.
Rub the CBD oil or topical cream onto your pups skin a few times a day to help the healing.
What to Feed Dogs With Itchy Skin
If your pup has sensitive skin, its best to research and get the best dog food or try making a homemade meal for your pup. It should contain only safe ingredients that dont trigger reactions. Also, look for those that combine fish oil, coconut oil, and digestive enzymes to fight inflammation.
Other home remedies for dog skin allergies itching that you can add to your pups diet include oatmeal, Quercetin, Yucca, sweet potatoes, and salmon. These will take care of your dogs overall skin health and help with itching and dryness.
When to Go to the Vet
Sometimes you cant treat dog allergies at home, which is when you should take your pet to the vet. It can happen if the reaction is severe and/or persistent. If your dog is starting to choke and has difficulty breathing call your vet immediately.
Other symptoms that might require your vets attention include:
- Yeast infections These are characterized by a repulsive, foughty smell.
- Wounds If your pets scratched itself and created a wound, its best if your vet gives you a prescription topical to avoid infections.
- Scratching for more than a week If none of the dog itching remedies is helping and the scratching continues, that might be a sign of a more severe condition like an autoimmune disease.
- Hairfall It might be a sign of an immune system problem.
Wrap Up
Dog skin irritations often happen since their soft fluffy coats are an excellent environment for bacterial growth. Allergies are also common for around 20% of dogs. Fleas enjoy our pets, too, so any dog parent should know how to deal with itching and scratching.
But how can you treat these irritations and allergic reactions at home? Well, start by identifying the cause an allergy testing kit can be helpful. Then, you can try baking soda, olive oil, witch hazel, vitamin E oil, and apple cider vinegar. Just dont forget that you cant solve all allergic reactions with home remedies for dog skin allergies and itching. So if the scratching persists, take your pooch to the vet.
