Puppy Care

It seems that allergies are becoming more common in puppies. Genetics can play a role; if your puppy's parents had allergies, then she may be likely to have them, too. Certain breeds also seem to be more prone to allergies than others.

An allergy is a reaction caused by exposure to a trigger. The trigger is called an antigen. There are three main triggers of dog allergies:

1. Fleas and other biting insects
2. Inhaled antigens, such as dust mites, pollen, grasses, and molds.
3. Foods and drugs

How your puppy's body reacts to the antigen is referred to as an allergic reaction. For your puppy to have an allergic reaction to something, she must have been exposed to it at least twice. The first time, her body recognizes the item as an intruder and produces antibodies. The second time, her body releases antibodies and histamines to fight the intruder. Histamines are what cause the allergic reaction. (That's why anffhistamines can be effectivethey fight histamines.)

Allergies can cause severe reactions in your puppy, enough to make her miserable. And because your puppy is exposed to so many things, it can be hard to figure out what is triggering her allergy. Allergies also can develop years after