How to Deal With Dog Allergies

Dog allergies are not always immediately noticeable. The thing is, many dog owners are not aware that dogs can have allergies. However, canine allergies are common.
I remember when I was a teenager, one day I was looking at my pooch and she was scratching, licking, and biting herself. I knew something was wrong. My first thought was to grab the flea powder thinking that she had a new flea infestation. But the power did no good. There were no fleas. I soon found out that my dog, Dorabella, had the classic signs of a skin allergy.
We never found out the source of her allergy. Dorabella needed medication and I had to wash everything she normally touched, including her bed, her toys, her rug. I also used a medicated dog shampoo to soothe her skin.
In most cases, a dog is allergic to something you don't know about. The truth is that canine allergies are common. In North America, they have risen dramatically over the past few decades and are as common as fleas.
Surprisingly, in many cases (but not mine), the source of the allergy is in the dog food, especially dry dog food! The skin is a marvelous organ of the body, whether on a human or a dog. The skin "breathes" in substances and it releases toxins from inside the body. Some of these toxins can easily be impurities found in dry dog food. Yes, you heard me right-- dry dog food! This occurs when the dog food is inappropriate for the species of dog. Some species can become very sensitive about additives in their food. The dog that should not have dried dog food may tolerate his/her dry food for a time, maybe for years, then one day that comes to an end and the dog's body begins to break-out. In this case, the cure is easy. Change the dog food. An improved diet will make the dog improve quickly.
Please remember that it is important to feed your dog species-appropriate food. Literature on dogs or your veterinarian can tell you if your dog food is appropriate.
However, just as often, the cause of a skin allergy is to be found within the dog's environment. First, I would start with a good medicated dog shampoo. If that doesn't do the trick within a few days, then look elsewhere. Unfortunately, a dog with a skin allergy will usually develop skin infections. These are potentially dangerous if they are untreated so they must be properly cared for.
Allergies are never a pleasant experience for humans or for canines. I hope this post has provides some insight and understanding of a common condition.
Note: This information on dog allergies is for general information only. It is not intended to replace the advice of your veterinarian.