What Are Dog Allergy Symptoms

Itchy eyes, runny nose, sneezing, and skin rash are some of the common dog allergy symptoms.

The skin is the body’s largest organ and it’s the first to react to an allergen. So when you come in contact with a dog allergen, it can cause a reaction in your skin. The most common symptom is a rash which can be red and itchy.

Dog allergies are caused by proteins found in a dog’s saliva, urine and dander (dead skin). When you come into contact with these allergens on your pet or in your home, they can be transferred to your nose or eyes through contact or inhalation.

How do you know if you have allergies from dogs?

Dog Allergy If your nose runs or you start sneezing and wheezing after petting or playing with a dog, you may be allergic to dogs. Dogs produce multiple allergens, or proteins that can cause allergy. These allergens are found in dog hair, dander, saliva and urine.^[1]

What is the most common allergy in dogs?

“The most common food allergens in dogs are proteins…” The most common food allergens in dogs are proteins, especially those from dairy, beef, chicken, chicken eggs, soy, or wheat gluten. Each time a pet eats food containing these substances, the antibodies react with the antigens, and symptoms occur.^[2]

How do you get rid of dog allergies?

Keep your pet out of your bedroom. Try not to hug or kiss your pet. Bathe your pet once a week. Keep pet areas clean. Vacuum often. Don’t give dander a place to hide. Get an air purifier. Cover HVAC vents with cheesecloth to catch particles before they’re blown into the air.^[3]

Can you live with a dog if you are allergic?

The good news is that dogs and people with allergies can live together. What causes allergies from dogs? Allergies are caused by a reaction to certain proteins found primarily in oil secretions from a dog’s skin and in a dog’s saliva. It is not hair itself that causes allergies.^[4]

How long does it take for dog allergies to go away?

Managing Allergic Reactions Typically, it takes around eight weeks for symptoms to clear up. You should also track the ingredient list of each type of food or treat that your pet consumes in order to narrow down what the exact substance might be.^[5]

How long do pet allergy symptoms last?

Once the allergen is removed, symptoms usually settle within a few hours but can last for 2-3 days, for example if there has been significant eye swelling, the use of antihistamines and on some occasions even oral steroids can help this settle more rapidly.^[6]

What meat is best for dogs with allergies?

Hypoallergenic dog food options include venison and potato, duck and pea, salmon and potato or even kangaroo, as long as the dog hasn’t been exposed to these ingredients in the past. Lamb used to be considered hypoallergenic but is now in so many commercial dog foods that it is no longer novel.^[7]

How can I get rid of dog allergies at home?

Apple cider vinegar, coconut oil, or aloe vera can be put on the skin to calm any itching. A relaxing oatmeal bath can relieve itching, burning, and dry skin.^[8]

What gets rid of allergies fast?

Oral antihistamines. Antihistamines can help relieve sneezing, itching, a stuffy or runny nose, and watery eyes. Corticosteroid nasal sprays. These medications improve nasal symptoms. Cromolyn sodium nasal spray. Oral decongestants.^[9]

How do you test for pet allergies?

Your doctor will diagnose a pet or animal allergy based on your medical history, symptoms, a physical exam, and allergy test results. Allergy testing is the best way find out if you allergic to a specific animal type. Your doctor can use either a blood test or skin test to help get a diagnosis.^[10]

Can I suddenly become allergic to my dog?

Unfortunately, allergies can develop anytime during a person’s life. Allergies are unpredictable and there isn’t a way of knowing how long they last. For households with dogs, one might suddenly develop allergies to things like a dog’s dander, urine, or saliva.^[11]

Can I take Benadryl for dog allergies?

Benadryl is a great medication for use in dogs with mild-to-moderate allergies. Seasonal allergies, food allergies, environmental allergies, and allergic reactions to snake and insect bites all respond to Benadryl in most cases.^[12]