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Dog
Hair Loss - information, causes, symptoms and treatment
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The
Allergic Dog and Hair Loss.
Allergies
not only afflict humans; they also affect our four-legged
furry friends. Humankind’s best friend – the dog – also succumbs
to the dreaded allergy. In dogs, these allergies can be associated
with hair loss, whilst the causes can be vast and many. From
household chemicals to certain foods, allergies in dogs can
cause havoc.
Sometimes,
eradication of these allergies is completely beyond the control
of the owner; in other cases, it is not. Whatever the reason,
it is firstly necessary to pinpoint the cause of the allergy
and devise a solution. Allergies in Dogs Can Be Vast and Many
Some of the following types of allergies exist in dogs and
can result in hair loss.
Flea
Allergies.
Many dog owners are familiar with flea bite allergies. This
type of allergy occurs as a result of hypersensitivity to
flea saliva. Itching and hair loss are often a consequence
of this allergy. Even if your own residence is not contaminated,
it takes one flea bite and the dog’s heightened sensitivity
swings into motion. Another reason your dog might experience
flea allergies despite coming from a pest-free residence is
due to the cat. Cats often do the rounds and, in their travels,
bring home all sorts of visitors, including fleas.
Food
Allergies.
Often identified as a human condition, food allergies also
afflict our beloved pets. Some common signs your dog has a
food allergy are: itching and hair loss; feet licking; swollen
ears; and, infection. As with humans, food allergies in dogs
are very individualized and could be unique to your pet. It
is especially difficult to pinpoint the foods that cause these
reactions as we often feed them little tidbits from our own
meals. Some common types of foods that cause allergies in
dogs include: lamb, beef, chicken, soy products, wheat, milk,
and preservatives and additives. Much like the human hunt
for allergies, elimination of suspected foods is a helpful
way of sourcing the culprit.
Allergies
from Inhaling.
Similar to humans and hayfever, dogs can negatively react
to pollens or dust mites. Also known as Atopy, the symptoms
of this type of allergy are similar to that presented above,
such as itching, hair loss, licking of feet and swollen ears.
Irritant
Allergies.
These are caused when your dog comes into contact with a range
of environmental substances. They can include such materials
as metals, plastics, rubber and chemicals. Allergy symptoms
in the dog can include inflamed skin, blisters/bumps on the
skin and itching. Hair loss can also result from exposure
to these irritants.
Whatever
the allergy and severity of hair loss, there are solutions
out there to help your family pet. There are many products
on the market to reduce your dog’s suffering. If the hair
loss is associated with a type of food allergy, it is important
that you act on your pet’s behalf. Allergies do have the potential
to make your pet’s life miserable.
Remember,
dogs are unable to eradicate the food themselves or visit
the local veterinarian for diagnosis. Although it might take
time and patience, it is possible for you to locate the source
of the hair loss and, in most cases, provide a solution.
