welpe kratzt sich hinter den ohren

The big scratch - allergies in dogs

Our dogs sometimes scratch themselves, but what can be the reason when short scratching turns into permanent itching?  

An occasional scratching and also nibbling or licking on the dog's body is normal, but if it becomes a very frequent or permanent scratching and licking, then you should ask yourself if your four-legged friend could have an allergy. 

In this blog post I would like to give you signs, possible causes, known allergens for dogs and tips for improvement. It does not replace a visit to the vet, because allergies require a lengthy workup and diagnosis in collaboration between you, your vet and possibly a nutritionist.

When does your dog itch too much?

Indications

  • Reddish discolored coat, skin changes especially on paws / inner thighs and partly on the belly, are caused by the massive licking. 
  • Your dog is unlikely to stop itching / licking if you address the animal.
  • Your dog has ear problems several times a year? This can also be a sole sign of an allergy

What could be the cause?

Causes

Parasites: Check if your dog might have fleas. 

Possible allergens: 

  1. Environmental Allergens: Pollen, trees, grasses, trees, flea saliva, detergents, plant contacts, molds, food mites in dry food, dust mites, fall grass mites. 
  2. Food Allergen: Proteins in food can be individually classified as allergens by the body. Studies have shown an increased allergic reaction of dogs to beef and chicken protein.

Wie kannst du als Hundebesitzer/in deinem Hund helfen?

Tipps

  • Documentation - how bad is it? Keep a diary with daily feedings and lickings in relation to the itchy spot on a scale of 1-10 and the defecation or similar. I would be happy to provide you with such a diary free of charge upon request. Contact me briefly at maxima cura 
  • Vet visit - remedy severe skin lesions and massive itching. A blood test for the dog's environmental allergens will reveal a direction of allergy and facilitate evaluation of an elimination diet. 
  • Shampoo - wash affected areas of the body with allergy shampoo or curd soap. 
  • History of your food - What proteins are you feeding? Get an overview of the proteins previously fed in the food and treats in your dog's life. An elimination diet is mandatory if allergies are suspected. 
  • Freeze food - Freeze dry food for at least 24 hours and thaw in portions. Then possible food mites die and no longer multiply in your dog's dry food.