Everything About Dog Allergies

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2018-08-27T19:34:00.001+08:00

Ee Sing's Traventures: Three (3) Days in Slovenia: Decided to take a break in Slovenia before starting my Term 2. It was quite an impromptu trip as I only bought my ticket 5 days before flyin...

5 Must-Have Accessories Under $50 for Your Beloved Dogs

2015-05-19T09:26:00.000+08:00

Your already cute pooch can become even cuter with the hottest accessories. If your pooch’s birthday is fast approaching or you just want to buy something extra special to celebrate your journey together, here are 15 must-have accessories under $20 for your beloved dogs. These gifts are not only gorgeous and cute, they are also very useful too.

Fresh Patch

Made of real grass, Fresh Patch attracts dogs and is a stylish and eco-friendly alternative to synthetic potties littering the market right now. Easy to handle and fully disposable, it naturally absorbs urine and odors. The best thing about it is that it is fully disposable!

Self-Warming Pet Bed

What can be a better bed in cold months than a bed which self-warms? The K&H lounge sleeper is made of self-warming materials which radiate heat back to your pet and it does not require electricity. The full is made of recycled plastic bottles and it has a non-slip stable bottom.

ID Tags

It is essential to have an ID tag for your pet so just in case they get lost, people will know where to return them. Made of premium quality anodized aluminum pet tags, the custom laser engraving is already included in the purchase. You can choose from seven shapes (cat face, bone, round, heart, hydrant, paw or star) and also choose from eight colors (black, blue, red, gold, silver, pink, green, purple).

Dental Chews

The number one vet-recommended dental chew among veterinarians, you can never go wrong with Greenies Dental Chews. It is clinically proven to fight plaque and freshen your dog’s breath and helps maintain healthy teeth and gums. The natural chewing action will help wipe away plaque and tartar buildup on the teeth’s surface.

Dog Beer

Want to give your dog a treat for being a good canine? Get the 3 Busy Dogs Bowser Beer. A non-alcoholic and non-carbonated beer for dogs, it is made of healthy ingredients all from scratch. Among its many ingredients are malt barley which helps give dogs a shiny coat and glucosamine which is good for your dog’s joints.

Dog Constipation Remedies

2015-04-14T13:48:00.002+08:00

Dog constipation can be caused by a myriad of things. It can be due to diet, illness, psychological factors or the ingestion of foreign objects. Most dog constipation cases are not serious and can be easily treated at home. Owners must learn to recognize the symptoms of dog constipation so they can give their pets the correct treatment and get them back on track to good health.

Your dog may be healthy and you may regularly bring your canine to the vet but this does not mean that it will not get constipated. Constipation can happen to the healthiest of dogs. Even if your dog looks health, if it has problems with its bowel movement, there is a big chance that it is suffering from mild constipation. A constipated dog will try to move his vowels, over and over with no success. He may also have bloating and abdominal pain and the stool passed is likely to be dry and small. The dog may seem depressed, lethargic and may even have personality changes.

Treatment

Diet

One of the most common causes of constipation is diet. Your dogs must have adequate liquid and fiber because without these two things they can easily become constipated. Water should be fresh and clean at all times and owners must always opt for fresh, quality dog food. You do not have to purchase the most expensive brand but you also should not purchase the cheapest in the market! Remember, you get what you pay for.

Mineral Oil

Some dogs may still continue to exhibit constipation symptoms even after changing diets. For these pups, mineral oil might be the answer. Use one teaspoon of mineral oil per ten pounds of the dog’s body weight. It is best to mix the mineral oil with the food.

Caution: Do not administer mineral oil directly into the dog’s mouth! Dogs might develop aspiration pneumonia from inhaling the oil.

If your dog is exhibiting any of the symptoms below, go to your very right away.

· Extreme abdominal pain

· Fever

· Diarrhea

· Weakness

· Vomiting

Understanding Dog Mange

2011-05-11T07:26:00.000+08:00

Most households today have dogs as pets. Dogs make very wonderful pets due to their playful nature and their loyalty. Dogs are truly man's best friend. Dogs are easy to care for and this is why they make popular pets; however, dogs, just like other animals, can easily get affected by allergies and diseases. It can be very upsetting for owners to see that their dogs are suffering from health conditions. Dog mange is just one of the many illnesses which can affect your dog. This is a serious condition which can threaten your beloved canine’s life if not addressed quickly and properly.

Dog Mange Explained

Dog mange is a skin condition in dogs. It can be extremely painful to your dogs and if your dog has it, there will be severe itching. Scaling and scabbing can result from dog mange if it is not treated correctly and quickly. Aside from that, the severe scratching can also cause secondary bacterial infections which can makes your once great-looking dog a former shell of itself. The infections can alter go to the bloodstream and lead to sepsis. Sepsis is fatal and it may cause your dog to die eventually.

Symptoms of Dog Mange

Dog mange is characterized by a variety of symptoms. Some of the symptoms of dog mange are:

· Loss of hair or fur

· Extreme foul odor

· Severe itching

· Blisters and sores

· Extremely dry, wrinkled and crusty skin

Dog mange is most often caused by parasites; especially mites that have made the dog’s body its permanent home. The mites burrow deep into the skin of the dog and the hair follicles. This causes extreme discomfort and itching. The parasites can multiple exponentially in numbers and then attack different parts of the dog’s body. They can cause a lot of damage to body parts like the ears, face, mouth and limbs.

Best Dog Food for Sensitive Stomachs

2011-05-08T08:34:00.000+08:00

There are some dogs which have sensitive stomachs. They can easily get food allergies and they cannot be fed just any type of food. Dogs like this will need a special diet. Fortunately today, there is a wide variety of foods which cater to dogs with sensitive stomachs. They can relive your dogs and make its condition a lot better than ever before.

Take your dog to the veterinarian

Before you buy a particular dog food for sensitive stomach, it is a must to take your dog to the veterinarian first and ask the veterinarian for an exam. There might be a medical condition behind your dog’s sensitive stomach and digestive problems and it is a must to get to the bottom of things so that the veterinarian can recommend a treatment that will surely work. It is possible that your dog has colitis or pancreatitis. To be sure, the veterinarian will do a blood test.

Feed your dogs easily digestible food

Feed your dogs food which can be easily digested like oatmeal, rice and chicken. There are also commercial dog foods made especially for dogs with sensitive stomachs. Your veterinarian may also suggest prescription dog food to alleviate your dog’s condition. Do not buy cheap dog food. You get what you pay for. Choose only high quality dog food. When feeding your dog treats, stick to easily digestible treats or treats which are especially made for canines with sensitive stomachs. A good example is charcoal dog biscuits.

Aside from commercial dog foods, you can also supplement your dog’s diet with rice and boiled chicken, cottage cheese, oatmeal and yogurt. You can also research about nutritionally-balanced homemade diets. However, if you do not have the time to cook for your dog, it is best to feed it commercially available dog food for sensitive stomach.

Use an elevated feeding bowl

When feeding your dog, it would help if you use an elevated feeding bowl. This can help aid digestion, especially in larger dogs. Why, because they will not have to bend over anymore. There are various styles of feeding bowls for dogs today so get a good one from your local pet supply store.

Pet Dander Allergy

2011-05-04T07:32:00.000+08:00

Owners want the very best for their dogs and want their beloved canines to be healthy always. Unfortunately, no dog is exempt from dander allergies and no dog is exempt from allergies, for that matter. Even hairless dogs get dander too. However, there are some breeds which have less dander than others. Fortunately, even if your dog has dander there are still things you can do to reduce it.

Dander Explained

Most household pets produce dander, like cats, dogs and other furry animals. Even birds produce dander. Dander is dead skin cells. They trigger further allergic reaction when pets shake and scratch and the dander collects on the fur and feathers of your pet. Dander has an allergy-causing protein which can also be found on your pet’s saliva and urine.

What Does Dander Do?

Dander can have a lot of allergic effects on your pet and people. It can easily irritate your sinuses and it can lead to sneezing, post-natal drip and even congestion. At the onset of allergy attacks, a person’s eyes might water and it can lead to headache, cough, sinus pain and sore throat. People who have asthma will experience more intensified allergic reactions. Apart from what was mentioned above, they may also end up with chest pains and problems in breathing.

What to Do With Dander?

Changes have to be implemented in the household to limit the amount of dander and the damage of dander. During pet grooming sessions, experts advise the use of a mask. You can also use shampoos which are especially made to reduce the amount of dander. Do not allow your pets to sit or lie on the family furniture. They should be taught not to do this. This will reduce the amount of dander in your furniture.

Dander is also an airborne allergen and so people are advised to use air purifiers. Air purifiers can not only improve the quality of air, it can also reduce the symptoms of pet allergy dander. Clean your carpet regularly and vacuum your home regularly. Don’t just use any vacuum. Use one which has an efficient HEPA filter. Do not also forget to use a micro-lined allergen filtration vacuum bag.

For owners or family members suffering from dander allergies, consult your physician right away. There are over the counter medicines which work but prescription drugs can be very pricey.

How to Choose Hypoallergenic Dog Food

2011-05-03T08:09:00.000+08:00

Is your dog suffering from food allergies? Is it constantly scratching? Although dog food accounts for the least amount of dog allergies, they should not be ignored. Dogs should be immediately treated to avoid further problems. Ask yourself first when the allergies started. It is possible that it is because you gave your dog a new type of food. This can make it easy for you to eliminate the food which is causing the allergies. If you really cannot pinpoint the food that is causing the allergies, it would be best to change your dog’s food to a hypoallergenic dog food.

Hypoallergenic dog food is widely available today and they are not hard to look for. All pet shops have them. The choices dog owners have are vast. There are several brands of hypoallergenic dog food in the market today. The formulation of hypoallergenic dog food is very different from regular dog food. However, you will still need to compare the ingredients carefully. How do you do this? Cut out the particular ingredients which are also seen on the dog food which you have been giving your dog or puppy.

You can also jot down the symptoms which your dog has been exhibiting. Quite a few hypoallergenic dog foods today will not only list the ingredients, they will also list what these ingredients do. For example, a particular ingredient can help reduce excessive itching and scratching.

You may also want to consult your veterinarian before you buy dog food if you do not want to do your own sleuthing. The veterinarian will be giving you a recommendation as to what hypoallergenic dog food is the best for you after a thorough checkup of your beloved canine.

Hypoallergenic Dog Food Brands

2011-05-02T08:51:00.000+08:00

When dogs get allergies, most owners thing right away that it is because of the food they are eating. However, the fact is food amounts for the least amount of allergies in dogs. This does not mean though, that owners can just neglect food allergies. When your dog starts exhibiting symptoms of food allergies, common sense would tell you that you need to eliminate something from your dog’s diet to find out what the source of the allergy is. Switching to a high-quality hypoallergenic dog food is also another solution.

Regular packaged dog food has a lot of ingredients and it is more than possible that your dog is allergic to one or more ingredients of these commercial dog foods. As we all know, commercial dog foods come with flavorings, preservatives, chemicals and many other substances. Dog food ingredients are also not easy to understand. When you look at dog food on the supermarket, they may look as if they contain the healthiest ingredients at first glance. But you will be very much surprised if you see the effects it has on your dog.

Some of the dog breeds which are very susceptible to food allergies are the following:

Golden Retriever
Labrador Retriever
Dalmatian
Bulldog Breeds
Dachshund
Rottweiler
German Shepherd
Schnauzer
Irish Setter
Shar Pei
Lhasa Apso
Cocker Spaniel

In response to the call of dog owners for dog food with better quality, a lot of manufacturers have come up with hypoallergenic dog food. Listed here, in random order, are some of the best dog foods in the market. You can easily buy them from your local supermarkets or order them online.

Grass Allergies in Dogs

2011-05-01T08:08:00.000+08:00

There are many signs of dog allergies and some of the most common are hair loss, excessive scratching, sneezing, and wheezing. Dogs are very much like humans, they get allergic to a lot of things. As a matter of fact, they can even get allergic to their owners!

One of the most common dog allergies is grass allergy So, if you see your dogs exhibiting the symptoms of allergies while running through the yard and playing catch with you, it is very important that you get your dog to the veterinarian so that it can be remedied right away. How do you prevent your dog from getting dog allergies? There are many ways.

Trim the grass in your yard

Keep it short and limit your dog’s exposure to it. It would also be better if you can create a place for your dog with sand and gravel only. This will reduce interaction with grass and allow your dog to play and exercise without much concern for you.

Clean your dog

After play and activity outside the house, it is also beneficial to wipe your dog’s body with a damp cloth. This will help make sure that your dog is clean and remove the residues of pollen and grass which might cling to the fur. If you do this regularly, irritation will be kept to a minimum. Aside from making sure that your dog is clean after playtime, you should also vacuum your home to remove residues of pollen and grass and wash your dog's bedding regularly.

Monitor playtime

Monitor your dog when it plays in the yard. Train your dog so that it will stop rolling on the grass if you say so.

Plastic Allergies in Dogs

2011-04-30T08:35:00.000+08:00

It is the owner’s responsibility to protect their dog. The owner is the dog’s first line of defense. This is why it is crucial for dog owners to educate themselves about the many things which contain irritants and allergens and make sure that their dogs get the best care possible. Dogs can easily develop contact allergies or reaction to things.

Dogs are exposed to allergens on a daily basis, this is only normal. Allergens are harmful to dogs and to people too. Sometimes, your dog’s immune system will react to the presence of allergen in a way as if it is a threat to your dog’s life. This is when allergic reaction starts. There is a long list of allergens today and some of them are pollen, food, plants, and plastic. Sometimes even owners cause dog allergies.

Causes of Plastic Allergies

Most dogs get plastic allergies when they come into contact with the substance when they eat or drink. They can also get plastic allergies when they play with plastic toys. Most of the time, it is the materials used for your dog which cause plastic allergies like plastic food dishes and water dishes. Even if your dog has already used plastic dishes before and it has not developed any allergies, it can still develop allergies later on. As a matter of fact, plastic allergies can happen to your dog any time in its life.

Symptoms of Plastic Allergies

If your dog is allergic to plastic, you will see symptoms. Your dog can develop contact dermatitis which is mostly seen on the chin, mouth and nose. Contact dermatitis is characterized by inflamed skin and it sometimes comes with bumps. Sometimes your dog’s skin may also become swollen and your dog cannot resist but scratch and scratch. In worse cases, dogs begin to lose their fur.

Treatment for Plastic Allergies

It is common for other dogs in the household to also develop plastic allergies if one of your dogs already has them. The best way of treating plastic allergies is to remove plastics from your house or reduce exposure to it. Instead of using plastic dishes, you can opt for ceramic dishes or glass. Get rid of toys which are made of plastic. You will see improvements after you get rid of plastics in your household.

How to Get Rid of Fleas Permanently

2011-04-27T21:52:00.000+08:00

Fleas are not only itchy on the part of your dog; they can also be potentially dangerous to humans. Fleas, aside from infecting dogs, can also transmit diseases like tapeworm. It is a must for owners to get rid of fleas not only for their pets but also for the sake of the family. Fleas thrive in places which are warm and humid. Fleas are not year-round problems in some areas. Regardless if you get fleas all through the year or just sometimes, you must be vigilant about them and get rid of them as promptly as you can.

Prevention is better than cure

This has been mentioned more than a thousand times. You must get rid of fleas before they even enter your home. Fleas are most active during summer and fall when it is dry and humid so check your pet during these times and look for signs of fleas.

Prevent fleas from thriving in your home by vacuuming your home frequently and thoroughly

Do not forget to include crevices, cracks, basements and corners. Adult fleas can easily escape from vacuum bags so make it appoint to dispose of them properly. Do not let your dogs socialize with other dogs which you think might have fleas. Your pet can easily get fleas from other dogs. Dog parks can be places which are very rich in fleas so be careful when bringing your pet to these areas and if you are really concerned, it is better not to bring your dog to dog parks.

Fine-toothed comb can be used to remove the fleas on your pet

You can get these combs from pet shops at affordable prices. Make sure that you clean your pet’s bedding regularly. Wash the bedding with hot and soapy water every week. Fleas and larvae are most often found on the beddings of pets. Give your dogs a bath every week. Use shampoos which are especially made for fleas.

Talk to your veterinarian

If you see that your dogs are exhibiting scratching, biting and raw patches on your pet’s body, consult the veterinarian right away. Talk to your veterinarian about the steps you can take to get rid of fleas permanently.

Flea Allergies and Dermatitis

2011-04-24T07:38:00.000+08:00

Fleas might be very small but they often cause big problems in dogs. Their saliva alone contains 15 different substances which can cause allergic reactions. The antigens found in flea saliva can cause dogs to become allergic to flea bites. As a matter of fact, more than 40% of dogs today have allergic reactions to flea bites. Dogs can develop flea allergy dermatitis or hypersensitivity. It is important to consult the veterinarian for problems like this, but there are also steps which you can take to treat this problem.

Life Cycle of Fleas

Fleas are small parasitic insects which can jump 150 times more than their body length. They live on warm-bloodied animals and they drink the blood off their host which is most often dogs and cats. Fleas like to live in warm places which also have high humidity. According to the Dog Owners’ Guide, they have a life expectancy of 50 days. A female flea can lay as many as 2,000 eggs in that short of a time. When the female flea lays eggs, it falls wherever the animal lies or sits. The eggs hatch and become larvae and the larvae spins a cocoon or pupa. It then becomes a six-legged insect and it begins the life cycle again.

Symptoms of Flea Allergies

If your dog becomes allergic to flea bites, it will cause the dog’s skin to become itchy and irritated. The dog will continue to scratch areas where it has allergies. Some symptoms of flea allergies are red bumps, a thick layer of skin which is usually located on the tail or the back. Dogs with fleas also have black specks of dirt on their bodies and when it is wet, it becomes red. These are flea feces.

Solution to Flea Allergies and Flea Bites

There are various shampoos today which are especially made to treat flea problems. Flea shampoos can kill adult fleas and some even provide future protection from fleas. There are also topical medications like drops which are safe to use on dogs. It is important that the dog’s environment be also cleaned to prevent fleas. Clean the dog’s bedding and spray insecticides regularly to remove fleas, as well as their eggs.

Commercial Products for Dogs' Dry, Itchy and Flaky Skin

2011-04-22T23:07:00.000+08:00

Tried a lot of home remedies for your dog's skin problems but you do not see any result at all? Do not worry too much. There are lots of products available commercially which you can use to relieve your dog from constant scratching. However, you should remember to consult your veterinarian before using any product on your dog so you can make sure that it will not have any side effects. Here are some of the most popular commercial products for dogs with dry, itchy and flaky skin.

Home Remedies for your Dog’s Itchy Skin

2011-04-22T22:44:00.000+08:00

Itchy, flaky and dry skin is a common problem with dogs. They can be caused by a variety of things including fleas, food allergies and infection. Pet owners often do not have any idea about what to do with dry, flaky and itchy skin. Owners certainly do not want to pay expensive veterinarian fees and buy expensive pet products. Well, the good news is, they do not have to. There are lots of home remedies which can help you soothe your dog’s skin problems.

Ear Mites

These are one of the most common things which cause your dog to scratch incessantly. You will often see your dog scratching the area around their ears. Get a cotton ball and soak it in mineral oil. Rub the cotton ball gently around your dog’s ear and swab your dog’s ear canal gently. However, you must remember that this is only a temporary solution. You will still need to consult your veterinarian for a permanent fix.

Flaky and Itchy Skin

When it comes to itchy and flaky skin, there are lots of home remedies which you can use. You do not have to spend a lot of money because most of these things can be found right in your kitchen and those which are not can be purchased at low prices. One of the many things which you can use is Calendula extract. This is a topical liquid which can be applied on infected spots. Remember to use a few drops only on each spot.

Vitamin E is also very helpful. You can get this in capsule gels. Just break open the capsule and apply Vitamin E directly on the skin. You can also mix the pill or capsule with your dog’s food for it to be taken orally.

Fish oil will also hydrate your dog’s skin. It will encourage your dog’s skin to produce essential oils which is a must for great skin. Fish oil can be bought in capsule form or in liquid form. Just apply fish oil on the infected area.

Have oatmeal in your kitchen? Use it to relieve your dog. All you need to do is mix oatmeal with water and rub it on your dog’s skin. Leave it for 10 minutes then rinse with lukewarm water.

Tea tree oil is not only good for humans; it is also good for dogs. All you need to do is spray it on your dog’s skin to prevent itching. Tea tree oil should be applied daily to get the best results.

What are the Causes of Dry, Itchy and Flaky Skin in Dogs

2011-04-22T09:25:00.000+08:00

It is very nice to look at the shiny coats of dogs. Sadly, not all dogs have nice coats and nice skin. Some dogs have skin problems which are often caused by parasites and allergies. Itchy, dry and flaky skin is very common in dogs. If this condition is not treated right away, your dog could end up losing hair and getting infected. Diagnosing problems like this can be a bit of a challenge but there are some easy measures which dog owners can do themselves to improve their dog’s condition.

Causes of Dry, Flaky Skin in Dogs

Listed here are the common causes of dry, flaky skin. Some are easy to treat while others may require the attention of a veterinarian.

· Fungal Infections. Yeats infection is an example of fungal infection. Ringworm is yet another culprit which can seriously affect the skin of your beloved dogs. Ringworms are small organisms which cannot be seen by the naked eye. This can easily spread on the dog’s entire body and if owners are not careful, this can also spread to them. If your dog has fungal infections you will see redness, flaking, scaling and oozing.

· Allergies. The most common allergies which cause dry, flaky skin are food allergies and contact dermatitis. Contact dermatitis is a skin irritation which can easily happen overnight. Harsh chemicals found in dog shampoos, household chemicals and laundry detergents can cause contact dermatitis on your dog’s skin. Food allergies are also very common. This happens when your dog has intolerance from a certain food. A food elimination diet might be necessary in order for you to tell what is causing the allergic reactions on your dog.

· Parasites. Fleas are the most common parasites which can cause skin problems. Parasites live in the hair follicle and they are not visible to the naked eye. If this is the cause of dry, itchy and flaky skin, it is best to go to the veterinarian. He or she might need to perform a skin scraping procedure. Other common parasites on dogs are scabies, ear mites and cheyletiella mites.

The Most Common Causes of Food Allergies in Dogs

2011-04-19T21:00:00.000+08:00

It is not uncommon for dogs to develop allergies to many things. They can be allergic to people, things in the house and even to food. Food allergies are distinguished because of the many symptoms which present themselves on the dog’s body. Some of the symptoms which can be seen on dogs with allergies are scratching, itching, hair loss and even ear infection. When you see that your dog is developing symptoms of food allergies, it is crucial to visit your veterinarian’s office right away. Do not wait for your dog’s condition to aggravate before you do anything.

Your veterinarian will help you determine what food is causing the allergies in your dog. You might also be asked to go through the elimination diet. Knowing what is causing the food allergy can help you prevent the allergies from ever occurring again. Some of the most common causes of allergies are the following foods:

· Eggs. The consumption of eggs can be cause allergic reactions in dogs.

· Chicken. You should avoid giving your dog chicken unless your veterinarian says it is alright to do so.

· Beef. This is also another common food which causes allergic reactions in dogs.

· Soy. Soy products can give your dog bad allergies.

· Wheat. You should avoid giving your dog bread and other wheat products.

· Dairy products. Milk is one of the most common dairy products people give their dogs. Do not give your dog dairy products unless the physician has approved it.

Dry Skin Remedies for Dogs

2011-04-14T00:28:00.000+08:00

Dogs are not immune to skin conditions. As a matter of fact, they often feel victim to various ailments of the skin. Just like their owners, dogs have dry skin most especially in the winter season. Dogs stay indoors during the winter season and people use electric heating systems of the fireplace to keep themselves warm. These are also the very same things which make a dog’s skin dry. Thankfully, there are steps which owners can make to alleviate the condition dot eh their dog’s skin. Owners can use dog dry skin home remedy.

Grooming

Grooming is very important not only because it is a good time for the dog and the owner to bond but this also helps make dry skin so much better. When you brush your dog, it stimulates the production of natural oils. This will get rid of the dander and get rid of the flakes caused by dry skin.

Bathing

Regular bathing keeps your dog clean and it will make your dog’s skin look a lot better. However, this depends on the frequency of baths and how owners give their dogs a bath. The rule of thumb is dogs should not be given a bath more than once every two weeks. If you have been giving your dog too many baths, reduce them. If you have been giving so little, make baths more frequent. Adjust accordingly. When giving your dog a bath, you should only use products which are especially made for dogs and not for humans. Vitamins which have Vitamins A and E are very beneficial. If commercial dog shampoos are too expensive for your budget, you can always make your very own. We have recipes for homemade dog shampoos which are very easy to make.

Nutrition

What your dog eats will manifest itself on its body. If your dog ash a poor diet chances are your dog will not look very good. Give your dog the proper nutrition it needs and. Dogs need vitamin and minerals to make their coat shiny and their skin in a good condition. Aside from dog food, there might also be dietary supplements which your dog needs. Supplements can also give your dog’s skin a better appearance. Some of the things found in your house which will help make your dog’s skin better is flaxseed oil and olive oil. They will thicken the fur and prevent the skin from flaking.

How to Determine if Your Dog Has Food Allergies

2011-04-09T16:10:00.000+08:00

Dogs, just like humans, can also get allergies. They can also be highly sensitive to a lot of things. When dogs get allergies, most owners blame it on the food, but that is not always the case. As a matter of fact, food causes the least allergies in dogs. Your dog may have been eating the same food for a long time before it started developing allergies. Fortunately, there is a way for you to determine if your beloved canine is indeed suffering from a food allergy, skin allergy or something else.

Food allergies in dogs have a lot of causes and when dogs have food allergies they also exhibit a lot of symptoms. Dogs will have itchy and inflamed skin. This is one of the most common symptoms which lots of dogs suffer from. Other symptoms are hair loss, ear infections, skin lesions, loss of appetite and many more. However, the symptoms may vary from one dog to another.

There are also various ingredients which cause allergies in dogs and they include eggs, milk, soy, wheat, pork, preservatives, beef, chicken and many more.

In order to determine if your dog has food allergies, you must consult your veterinarian. As mentioned earlier, there are various other allergies. The allergy could be seasonal and it can also be chemical. Have your pet checked by a professional. A skin biopsy might also be performed.

If it is proven that food is what is causing allergies on your dog, you should start with an elimination diet. What this means is that you should stop giving your dog the usual food it is eating and replace them with food which your dog has not eaten before. The new diet of your dog will consist of two parts starch and one part protein. Some choices of protein are salmon, venison, rabbit and duck. For starch, you can use potatoes, rice and pasta. Your dog’s new diet will be very demanding because you will have to make it on your own. You will not be using commercial dog foods for your dog’s diet.

Aside from the elimination diet, your veterinarian might also recommend hypoallergenic healthy dog food which you can try. Feeding your food hypoallergenic food is usually done before the elimination diet. If your dog is on a restricted diet, its symptoms should improve. You can then re-add other foods one at a time. Add or re-add new food one at a time so that if you dog starts showing symptoms again, you will know what to eliminate.

When you know what food is triggering the allergies on your dog, you can then completely eliminate it from your diet and replace it with something which does not contain allergens. Once you eliminate what is triggering your dog’s allergies it will be easier to control.

Useful Remedies for Dog Allergies

2011-04-07T08:50:00.000+08:00

Allergies affect everyone, even our beloved dogs. Unfortunately, their cuteness does not make them exempt them from the dreaded allergies. Allergies can be of various kinds. It can be allergy to substances like feathers, dust, flea bites, mold spores and chemicals. Dogs can also get allergic to humans or certain types of food. There are many sources of allergens, indeed. Allergens can be inhaled or dogs can get it through direct contact.

Check if you dog has fleas. It is not uncommon for dogs to get fleas once in their lives. Dogs which are allergic to flea bites will itch and they will continue to scratch themselves. They might even chew on their sores to relieve themselves. If your dog has fleas, you need to give it a bath using a shampoo which is intended for fleas. If flea shampoos are too much for your budget, you can easily make your own homemade shampoos. You can give your dog a bath on your sink or large tubs. Remember to massage your dog’s skin. Give your dog a bath twice a week until the fleas are gone. You can also try the oatmeal bath. For the recipe, you can go here.

You can also buy over the counter antihistamines for your dogs. You can use Benadryl or other generic brands. Look for products which only contain diphenhydramine. Remember to only use a single 25mg tablet for every 50 pounds of body weight. If your dog is small, you can just divide the tablet.

Flaxseed oil is also very important. It will strengthen the immunity of your dog’s skin. Flaxseed oil contains essential fatty acids, as well as salmon oil. These can both reduce the effects of allergies reactions. If you have already tried all the possible things to stop the allergies and there is still no relief, you can try another dog food. It is very possible that the food is what is causing the allergies. There are ingredients in food which can cause allergies.

Hygiene is also very important. You have to make sure that your dog’s kennel is cleaned at least once a week. Your dog’s skin is highly sensitive to the urine and feces on the kennel. The kennel floor should be clean and dry. Vacuum you carpet once daily to remove dust and pollen. You can also use spray solutions to get rid of dust mites.

Homemade Shampoo Recipes for Dogs

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Have you tried all the possible shampoos for dog allergies out there but your beloved pet still has not found any relief at all? This can be very difficult for the owner and the dog. Dog allergies can ruin the beautiful coats of your dog. If your dog has been suffering from an eternity of constant scratching, why not give him some relief by using some homemade recipes?

Homemade Dog Shampoo

This recipe is quite easy to make. This will only take about 10 minutes to prepare and all the ingredients are found easily.

· A pint of water

· A pint of apple cider vinegar

· A pint of liquid dish soap, for example, Dove

· 4 ounces of glycerine

Just mix the ingredients together in a big bowl and store in a container.

Homemade Dog Shampoo for Dry Skin

· A box of cornstarch

· 1 ½ cups of corn meal

· 10 drops of tea tree oil

This is a great relief for dogs which have dry and flaky skin. Mix all the ingredients together in a bowl. If you do not have tea tree oil, you can substitute it with other essential oils like lemon oil, rosemary oil, lavender oil and many more. Leave the mixture on your dog for about 5 minutes and then rinse it. If you do not rinse your dog well, the residue can irritate the skin of your beloved pet.

Flea and Tick Shampoo

· 2 tablespoons white cedar oil

· 2 tablespoons eucalyptus oil

· 2 tablespoons peppermint oil

· ¼ cup white vinegar

· ¼ cup citronella oil

· 2 cups warm water

Pour the warm water in a bowl and then add the cedar, eucalyptus, peppermint and citronella. Mix well. Pour the vinegar and then mix thoroughly. As soon as you see fleas and ticks on your dog, use this solution. Remember to rinse your dog well after.

What to Avoid and What to Look for in Dog Shampoos

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If your beloved canines have dog allergies, one of the things which are recommended is to buy dog shampoo. Dog shampoos are not difficult to find, they are present in most pet shops and you can also get them from your veterinarian. However, you have to be very careful about the various shampoos you use for dog allergies. Read the labels carefully because there might be some ingredients which are not good.

The best dog shampoos are those which contain natural ingredients. However, the truth is most dog shampoos today contain a lot of artificial ingredients like perfumes, coloring and chemicals. Dogs with allergies have adverse reactions to these ingredients most of the time. In order to avoid adverse allergic reactions, it is better to buy dog shampoos which have organic and natural ingredients although there is a small amount of natural ingredients which also cause reactions.

One of the most important things to check when selecting a dog shampoo is the surfactant. The surfactant is what makes the shampoo spread and blend with water. A surfactant which is too harsh will strip your dog’s coat of its natural oils. Be very careful with your choices.

Ingredients to Avoid in Dog Shampoos

Although Aloe Vera is one of the bets ingredients in helping ease itching and scratching, however, there are dogs with pollen and grass allergies which might not benefit from Aloe Vera. If you are currently using a dog shampoo with Aloe Vera and you find it ineffective or not helpful, you should switch to another shampoo.

Ingredients which can cause allergic reactions

· Tar - this can cause cancer

· Co Co Amide - another cancer causing agent

· Sodium Laureth - this is the ingredient which causes shampoos to foam but this is irritating and this can damage the follicle

· Methyl Paraben, Propyl Paraben and Mineral Oil - this causes allergic reactions

· Ethyl Alcohol - this can dry out the coat of your dog

· Propylene Glycol - this is a mineral oil which can irritate the skin of your dog

· Parabens - this can contribute to cancer and this is also an irritant

Ingredients to look for in dog shampoos

· Vitamin A

· Vitamin D

· Vitamin E

· Glycerin-this is better than Propylene glycol

· Citric acid and Potassium sorbate-these are both approved by the FDA

· Oatmeal-one of the bet ingredients in dog shampoos

· Tea tree oil-an antibacterial agent

· Neem- an antibacterial agent

Home Remedies for Dog Allergies

2011-04-04T08:18:00.000+08:00

Our beloved canines are prone to allergies just like their owners. There are various things which cause allergies in dogs. It could be the food they are eating, the products being used in them, grass, pollen, dust and many more. It is the owner’s responsibility to make sure that their dogs get the proper care they deserve. After all, they are members of the family. Some people rush to the veterinarian when they see that their dogs have allergies. There is really no need for that unless the case is very severe. Here are some great home remedies for dog allergies which cost little to no money. All of these ingredients can be found in your household.

Apple Cider Vinegar

Apple cider is very useful when it comes to treating dog allergies. It can be a very good aid for scratching and itching. All you need to do is to mix equal parts of apple cider vinegar and water and use this as your dog’s bath. Just make sure to rinse after. Aside from using it as a bath, it can also be used as a spray. Just put the mixture in a spray bottle and spray it on your dog when it starts to scratch. If you do not like giving your dog a bath or spraying your dog with apple cider vinegar, you can just add it to your dog’s drinking water. For every 50-pound dog, you should add two teaspoons of vinegar. Apple cider vinegar is indeed valuable for dogs, it will help get rid of dog allergies, give your dog a shiny and beautiful coat and it will also help promote health.

Oatmeal

Oatmeal is very helpful for dog allergies. If you look at the shampoos dogs sold today, you will see that most of them contain oatmeal. Oatmeal will not only soothe dog allergies, this will also moisturize the skin and create a protective coating. Making an oatmeal bath is quite easy. Put uncooked and unflavored oatmeal in a blender until it reaches a consistency which is similar to powder. Fill the tub with lukewarm water and dissolve the oatmeal powder in it. Make sure that the water reaches the chest of your dog. Soak your dog in the oatmeal bath for a quarter of an hour. Remember not to rinse the dog after the bath.

Epsom Salt

If dogs suffer from dog allergies, it is very likely that the dog will have sores and wounds because they continue to scratch until they feel relieved. Epsom salt can help treat itching. What you need to remember is Epsom salt should not be ingested by your dog. What you can do is soak parts of your dog which are itchy. Mix half a cup of Epsom salt with a gallon of water and then soak your dog’s paws or tail for about 10 minutes. Do this at least twice a day until the wounds are healed.

Baking Soda

This is also a very effective remedy for itching. All you need to do is make a paste using baking soda and water and then apply it to the area where your dog itches. This is very effective for insect bites.

Aspirin

Aspirin solutions can be a quick relief to dogs which are continuously itching because of dog allergies. All you need to do is to dissolve two aspirin tablets in one tablespoon of rubbing alcohol. Mix and allow the solution to cool. Clip the hair on the area which is affected and then apply the solution on the skin using a cotton ball.

Shampoos for Dog Allergies

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There is a huge diversity of dog shampoos available today. If you go to the local department store, you will see a lot different names and brands with various ingredients, as well. So, how does a pet owner like you choose the correct shampoo for dog allergies? The best shampoo for dog allergies is one which does not contain any chemical or perfumes. Things like these can only worsen your dog’s condition. The best shampoos are the organic shampoos which can be found easily at your veterinarian’s office and health food stores.

Regardless how great the temptation may be, never use human shampoos for your dogs. This will not do your dog any good. Human shampoos are for humans and dog shampoos are for dogs. Choosing the correct shampoo can greatly help a dog with flea allergies. Having the correct shampoo means you and your dog are a step closer to solving the problem of flea allergies in dogs.

As mentioned earlier, there are natural ingredients which are very good for dogs with allergies. These are the ingredients you should look for in a dog shampoo bottle:

· Tea Tree Oil

· Aloe Vera

· Eucalyptus

· Lemon Extracts

· Oatmeal

· Orange Extracts

· Wheat Germ Oil

Medicated shampoos will benefit dogs which have severe skin allergies. For dogs with severe allergies, most experts recommend using shampoos with oatmeal. Most of these shampoos have to be left on the dog’s skin for at least 10 minutes to get good results. If you just want a shampoo which will make your dog’s coat smooth and glossy, you need to look for shampoos which have Vitamin B and E. for anti-inflammatory purposes; shampoos contain Omega-6 fatty acids and Pramoxine HCI.

Commercial Shampoos for Dog Allergies

Aside from dog allergies treatment home remedies, there are also commercially available shampoos which are widely sold in per stores. Some of the most popular shampoos which contain oatmeal are:

What to Do if Your Dog Has Allergies

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Flea allergies in dogs and other types of allergies can be distressing both to the owner and their beloved canines. Fortunately, there are things owners can do to treat their dogs and help them. A dog’s discomfort can be easily relived by an owner who knows what to do with dog allergies. Some of the common symptoms of dog allergies are sneezing, scratching, scaly skin, rashes and a lot more.

Confirm if Your Dog has Allergies

If you notice allergy symptoms in your dogs, it is unwise to assume right away that it is dog allergies. It is best to go to the veterinarian and confirm what is causing the symptoms on your dogs. Most of the time dog allergy symptoms are very similar to problems with respiration and colds.

Identifying Allergens

Once you have confirmed that your beloved canine has dog allergies, the next task you should do is to identify the things which are causing dog allergies. There are many reasons for dog allergies. It could be the food they are eating, their owners, molds, dust, their food and of course, bugs. You may also need to have skin tests ad blood tests done in order to know is inhalants, parasites or mites are the cause of allergies. A test is also only the only way to know if it is food which is causing the allergies in your dogs.

What to Do with Dog Allergies

If your dig has inhalant allergies, there are things which you can do. One of them is to minimize your dog’s exposure to allergens. You must also make sure that you keep your clean home; this is the best way of minimizing allergens. Vacuum regularly. Do not forget to groom your dog regularly. Inhalant allergies can easily get through the pores of your dog. Strengthen your dog with shots and supplements. Make sure the air in your home is clean. This is not only good for the dogs but for all members of the family too. Get air purifiers if you do not have one yet.

If your dog has food allergies, you can change the Blue Dog Food and other dog food which is made especially for allergies; you can also mix your very own dog food at home so you can control the ingredients and avoid those which cause dog allergies.

If you dog has allergies concerning parasites, buy products which will help get rid of them like shampoos and you can also get dewormers from your veterinarian. If your dog is allergic to certain things or materials in your home, make sure that you eliminate these materials or keep them away so that your dog does not get in contact with them.

What Causes Dog Allergies

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"Langhaardackel merlin 2005" by Rainer Spickmann - Own work. Licensed under CC BY-SA 2.5 via Wikimedia Commons

Ever seen a dog itching all over and scratching itself constantly? This is most likely caused by dog allergies. Dog allergies make pets uncomfortable and it can ruin beautiful coats too. It is a must to stop dog allergies right away. One of the most important steps to take in order to prevent and cure dog allergies is to understand the things which cause it. What are the likely causes of dog allergies? Get to know them so that you will know how to prevent and get rid of them.

Mold

This is something which can be found inside the home. Mold loves to grow in places which are humid, unventilated and places with moisture. Mold can cause your beloved dogs to itch. If you house has ever been flooded or if it has places which are constantly wet, your dog is a great candidate for allergies. Molds in the home such as Stachybotros will not only cause allergies in your dogs, it will also have harmful effects on the members of the household. Molds may vary from one region to another but the point is you need to make sure that you get rid of them as soon as possible. Run the air conditioner regularly to keep the humidity low. Check the air conditioner and clean it regularly.

Food

Although this is one of the least likely causes of allergies but most people always blame food first as the cause of allergies. Only about 15% of allergies are caused by food. There are dogs which are sensitive to a particular kind of food. Protein is one of the main causes of food allergies. The remedy for this is to switch to another type of protein source.

Other animals

Your dog might also be allergic to other animals in your household, such as your cat. Male long-haired cats put out a lot of allergens. Cat allergen can stick to walls easily, the carpet, walls and may other surfaces in the household. What you can do to remedy this is to use bath products which will remove these allergens.

Family members

This might sound funny but this is true. People, just like cats, also put out allergens. The allergens are found in the skin of humans.

Insects

Insects can also be the cause of seasonal allergies. Summertime is often the season of bugs and this is when mosquitoes and other insects mostly attack. You can buy bug sprays which will kill these bugs right away.

Seasonal dog allergies

This is, among the likely causes of dog allergies, the most common. Allergies often run in families of dogs, but it is not the major cause. It is best to take your pet to a veterinarian so that he or she can run a scratch test. Veterinarians often inject pollen extracts just under the shaved area of the skin and doctors note the reactions a little later.