Tips for allergies in dogs

What is an allergy?
In simple terms, an allergy is a reaction of the immune system to a harmless substance. Normally, the immune system helps protect the dog's body from viruses and bacteria. In the case of an allergy, the immune system makes a mistake and thinks that pollen, flea saliva or a certain animal protein are also harmful. The system then starts attacking these intruders. Your dog may suddenly feel itchy, or start losing fur. Always contact your vet in that case!

Flea allergy: itching above the backside
A flea allergy is the most common allergy in dogs. The spot just above the tail is a particular hotspot for itchiness. Fortunately, a flea allergy is fairly easy to treat. Treat your dog all year round with a good anti-flea treatment. Does your dog have fleas or has had them recently? As well as treating your dog, treat all the cushions and furniture that your dog has been lying on. There are many sprays which can help you keep your home flea-free.

Environmental allergy: hay fever in dogs

Dogs can also be allergic to pollen, moulds and dust mites. This causes itchiness, which makes them scratch and lick themselves. Itchiness often occurs by the nose, ears, paws, armpits and groin.

Once the vet has found the cause of your dog's allergy, you can try to avoid serious reactions. For example, minimise the number of objects in your home that can attract allergens, like carpets. You can also buy anti-allergy dog baskets which can be washed at a high temperature. You can avoid or soothe skin reactions by regularly washing your dog with water or mild shampoo. Nutrition or supplements with omega 3 and omega 6 fatty acids (from fish oil) will also promote a healthy coat and skin and may reduce itchiness.

Food allergy: avoid that protein
Dogs can be allergic to a certain protein used in dog food and snacks. This type of allergy causes itchiness all over the body and in rare cases also vomiting and diarrhoea.

To prevent this allergy, you and the vet will need to find the culprit by means of an elimination diet. You might also choose to give your dog hypoallergenic food. This food has a minimum number of ingredients so that there is the least possible risk of an allergic reaction. Our tasty, hypoallergenic dog biscuits and healthy dog meals are hypoallergenic. We have meals with only one animal protein of lamb or salmon, supplemented with rice or peas instead of grains.