Puppy Care

Atopic Dermatitis

This is the second most common allergic reaction in dogs. It's a reaction to something that your puppy inhales or absorbs through her skin. It usually develops in puppies and dogs from 1 to 3 years of age. Certain breeds are prone to atopic dermatitis, including Labrador and Golden Retrievers, Poodles, West Highland White Terriers, Boxers, Bulldogs, Lhasa Apsos, Wire Fox Terriers, and English and Irish Setters.

Symptoms first appear with the arrival of weed-pollen season, then can progress to be year-round. In earlier stages, dog may scratch at their ears or under their bellies. They may rub their faces on things, trying to relieve the itch. They also can suffer from watery eyes, sneezing, ear infections, and runny noses. A common symptom is licking of the paws. Some dogs may scratch their skin until it bleeds, experience hair loss, and get crusty skin infections. This is just miserable for a puppy, because she can't get relief from the constant itching.

Treatment involves medication from a veterinarian, who may prescribe antihistamines for itching and antibiotics for skin infections. He also may suggest diet supplements or special shampoos to help bring relief. You may get a referral to a canine dermatologist to try and identify which triggers are affecting your puppy.

Food Allergies

The third most common cause of itching and scratching in dogs is food allergy. It can strike dogs of any age. Dogs may be allergic to a variety of foods, including meats, milk, eggs, grains, potatoes, soy, and food additives. These allergies may not cause a reaction for years after a puppy has been eating her food.

Symptoms include severe itching, raised patches of skin, and pimple-like welts, usually on the ears, paws, belly, and backs of the legs. Food allergy is sometimes difficult to diagnose because the symptoms look like those from other allergic reactions.

Treatment involves feeding a hypoallergenic diet and watching for signs of relief. Your veterinarian will recommend a specific brand of food for your puppy. It should be something she hasn't had before, should contain few ingredients, and should be free of preservatives or additives. Switching your puppy from one brand of food to another will probably not work, because many different brands of dog food have common ingredients. It can take several weeks to several months to see a difference in your puppy's symptoms.