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 the first exposure, so something that your puppy has tolerated for a long time can suddenly produce an allergic reaction. If you have a puppy with allergies, you must stock up on patience and work closely with your veterinarian to find out exactly what's causing the problem and how best to treat it.

Dogs usually have skin reactions to allergies. Some are immediate and usually cause hives. The worst kind of immediate reaction, anaphylactic shock, is a severe reaction that includes vomiting, diarrhea, difficulty breathing, collapse, and even death. Some reactions are delayed and can cause severe itching.

Flea Allergic Dermatitis

The most common canine allergy, flea allergic dermatitis, occurs when a puppy is allergic to flea saliva.

Symptoms include itching, inflamed skin, and pimple-like welts usually around the rear and base of the tail, under the legs, and in the groin and belly areas. Puppies will chew and scratch themselves. Their fur may fall out, and the skin will become dry and scaly. Sometimes, the skin breaks down and becomes infected and crusty.

Treatment is a multi-step process. Your veterinarian may prescribe antihistamines to help with itching, antibiotics for skin infections, and flea prevention medication. In addition, you must get rid of the fleas on your puppy and in your home and yard, or she will continue to suffer.