This is the second part in the series on dog allergies. In this part we take a look  at identifying dog allergies.

If you have not done so yet, please read the first part of this series here -

Dog Information on Allergies

Identifying dog allergies is often quite a difficult task. This is because many of the symptoms of dog allergies are also similar to the symptoms of other conditions and diseases that are common among dogs. Even when you do manage to  identify your dog’s symptoms as being caused by an allergy, it is difficult to tell what exactly she is allergic to.

Many dog allergies have similar signs and symptoms, but with a little patience and effort it is possible to distinguish them.

The most common and obvious symptom of a dog allergy is dry and itchy skin. Along with the dryness and itchiness, there is usually flaking and scabbing. Poor dogs, most of them will scratch an itch constantly causing their skin to bleed and leading to sores and possible infection.

Other common symptoms of dog allergies include ear infections and hair loss.

External factors such as…

• environmental changes
• time of year
• behavioral changes

can help you to determine the cause of an allergy. By taking into account all three of these factors you may be able to conclude whether your dog’s symptoms are really allergic reactions or signs of some other condition or illness.

There are two main ways that you can check to see if your dog really has an allergy…

• allergy testing
• environmental changes

Allergy testing – Testing for allergies can be done either as an intradermal test or in as a blood test.

Environmental changes – Changing a dog’s environment to test for allergies relates to the systematic elimination of certain components of a diet or of the environment. The dog’s health and behavior is noted with each change.

Identifying a dog allergy can be very complicated and at times, frustrating. You may think you have finally found out what the root cause of her allergy is and then there is another flare up.

In order to be successful at finding and treating your dog’s allergy, you have to be patient and consistent.  But in the end your dog will thank you for the relief you bring her.

Click here to read the third part in the dog allergy series.