Signs of Allergic Reactions in Dogs

Dogs experience allergic reactions just like humans. The most common causes of allergic reactions in dogs are insect proteins, dust mites, mold spores, certain foods, flea saliva, pollens, and medications. Symptoms arise when the body identifies an allergen as a threat and begins to fight against it, creating allergic reaction symptoms.

Here are signs your dog may be experiencing an allergic reaction.

Diarrhea

Did your dog just start eating a new food they have never tried before? Diarrhea is a symptom of many issues, but food allergies are one of the most common causes. Dogs have sensitive digestive tracts that require healthy foods and proper chewing.

Dogs that try new foods or are in the process of being switched from one food source to another—such as transitioning to a new brand of dry kibble—often experience allergies to ingredients in the new food.

When a dog experiences a food allergy, diarrhea is one of the most obvious symptoms. It is also often accompanied by itchy ears, paws, and skin.

Diarrhea can become serious if your dog experiences it for more than 24 hours. It’s essential that you bring your dog to the veterinarian or local animal hospital for treatment if diarrhea persists, to prevent dehydration and identify the underlying cause.

Vomiting

Vomiting is your dog’s digestive system attempting to rid the body of a toxin. Vomiting expels the substance from the digestive tract until it is gone. There are many reasons a dog vomits, but an allergic reaction to a toxin is a reason to take action quickly.

For example, if your dog accidentally ate a toxic plant and began vomiting afterward, you need to take them to the veterinarian immediately for diagnosis and treatment.

Common houseplants that are toxic to dogs include Aloe Vera, Ivy, Lilies, Jade, Elephant Ear, Dumb Cane, and Asparagus Fern. The list of toxic plants is extensive and includes both indoor and outdoor varieties. Make sure you research toxic plants and remove them from your home and yard to help prevent your dog from experiencing an allergic reaction.

Itchy Ears

Image caption: Excessive ear scratching in dogs may signal an allergic reaction.

Your dog might scratch their ears from time to time, but an allergic reaction causes severe itchiness that results in excessive scratching. If your dog is scratching their ears continuously and sometimes whining at the same time, they are in discomfort.

This type of scratching is nonstop, aggressive, and distracts your dog from doing things they enjoy, such as playing with toys. Some dogs will stop eating their food because they feel uncomfortable and lose their appetite due to the suffering from the itchy ears.

Another sign that your dog’s itchy ears are caused by an allergic reaction is an odor coming from the ear. This smell is strong and often becomes noticeable while your dog is scratching their ears. When you look inside the ear canal, you may notice a large amount of earwax that is brown in color, and the odor can be overpowering.

If this problem continues long-term, it can lead to an ear infection, which causes the odor. Your first thought might be to clean your dog’s ears, but it’s best to visit the veterinarian for an exam and diagnosis. Treatment usually involves identifying the allergen causing the itchy ears, eliminating the cause, and treating the infected ear.

Swelling of the Face

Watching your adorable dog’s face swell up is difficult to see. However, once you notice the swelling, it’s important that you take action quickly. Swelling of the face in dogs usually means your pet is having an allergic reaction to pollen, toxic foods, bug bites, vaccinations, bee stings, or medications.

Rush your dog to the veterinarian or animal hospital immediately. A swollen face can lead to blocked airways and other issues that can be life-threatening.

Some allergic reactions can lead to anaphylaxis, which can result in death if not treated quickly. This is why it’s important to take action and contact the veterinarian right away.

Allergic reaction symptoms are the body’s way of fighting off toxins that are dangerous to the overall well-being of your dog. The physical symptoms range from mild to severe. Some symptoms, such as a swollen face, excessive vomiting, and diarrhea, require immediate attention from a veterinarian or animal hospital.

Other less severe allergic reactions in dogs can be managed over time since they don’t threaten a dog’s life immediately and don’t need emergency care. However, they do need medical attention within 24 to 48 hours to help your dog feel better.

As soon as you notice signs of allergic reactions in your dog, contact your veterinarian—even if it’s not an emergency. The veterinarian will provide a diagnosis and a treatment plan to help your dog get back to their normal joyful life.