Dog Allergy Relief: Itching, Skin, and Paws

If your pup spends more time scratching than playing, allergies may be the culprit. At Coit Hedgcoxe Animal Hospital, your trusted veterinary clinic in Plano, TX, we regularly see canine patients with itchy skin, ear infections, or other signs of allergic reactions. Dog allergies can cause chronic discomfort, and may lead to skin infections and reduced quality of life. The good news is that with the right care and guidance, your canine companion can get relief.

What Are Dog Allergies?

An allergy occurs when your dog’s immune system overreacts to a harmless substance. These substances, known as allergens, can be inhaled, ingested, or absorbed through the skin. Common triggers include pollen, dust mites, mold, flea saliva, and certain foods.

Unlike people, dogs with allergies rarely sneeze or have runny noses. Instead, they develop itchy skin, chronic ear problems, or recurring paw chewing. At our Plano veterinary hospital, we take a very serious approach to diagnosing and managing allergies.

Symptoms of Dog Allergies

Signs of allergies in dogs may include:

• Persistent scratching or licking
  
• Red, inflamed skin
  
• Hair loss or bald patches
  
• Ear infections with odor or discharge
  
• Chewing or licking paws
  
• Chronic skin or ear infections
  

If your canine friend shows these symptoms, it’s time to schedule an exam.

Itchy Dog Skin in Plano

Itchy skin is the most common sign of allergies. Known as pruritus, this condition can cause significant distress. Dogs may scratch until they create hot spots, which are moist, painful areas of skin that can become infected.

At Coit Hedgcoxe Animal Hospital, our veterinarians in Plano, TX evaluate itchy dog skin with physical exams, allergy testing, and sometimes skin scrapings or cytology to rule out parasites and infections.

Types of Canine Allergies

There are several types of allergies that may affect your pup:

• Environmental allergies: Triggered by pollen, mold, dust, or grass.
  
• Flea allergy dermatitis: Caused by sensitivity to flea saliva. Even one bite can cause a severe reaction.
  
• Food allergies: Reactions to specific proteins such as chicken, beef, or grains.
  
• Contact allergies: Irritation from shampoos, fabrics, or cleaning products.
  

Understanding the type of allergy is key to finding the right treatment. Click here for our prior blog on allergies.

Canine Allergy Treatment

Treatment depends on the cause and severity of symptoms. Options include:

• Medications: Antihistamines, anti-itch drugs, or steroids prescribed by a veterinarian.
  
• Immunotherapy: Allergy shots or drops to desensitize your dog’s immune system.
  
• Topical therapies: Medicated shampoos, sprays, or ointments to soothe itchy skin.
  
• Dietary management: Elimination diets to identify and remove food triggers.
  
• Flea prevention: Year-round protection to eliminate flea-related allergies.
  

Our veterinarians in Plano create personalized canine allergy treatment plans that target the underlying cause, not just the symptoms.

Skin Care Tips for Allergic Dogs

Home care plays an important role in managing allergies:

• Bathe your dog with gentle, veterinary-approved shampoos to remove allergens from the skin.
  
• Wipe paws after outdoor walks to reduce pollen exposure.
  
• Vacuum frequently to reduce dust and dander in the home.
  
• Wash bedding regularly in hot water.
  
• Provide a balanced diet rich in omega-3 fatty acids for skin health.
  

These tips reduce irritation and support the treatments prescribed by your veterinarian.

Fun Facts About Dog Allergies

• Golden Retrievers, Bulldogs, and Terriers are among the breeds most prone to allergies.
  
• Dogs often show food allergies as skin problems rather than digestive issues.
  
• Allergy testing in dogs is similar to humans, often involving small skin injections.
  
• Some dogs improve dramatically with environmental changes like air purifiers and hypoallergenic bedding.

You can read more about seasonal allergies in pets at the Animal Humane Society website here. Purdue College of Veterinary Medicine has some helpful information about pet allergies on their website here.

FAQ About Dog Allergies

Can allergies develop later in life?

Yes. Dogs can develop allergies at any age, even after years without symptoms.

Are dog allergies curable?

No, but they are manageable with the right treatment plan.

How do I know if my dog has food or environmental allergies?

Veterinarians may recommend elimination diets or allergy testing to determine the cause.

Can over-the-counter medications help?

This can be very dangerous. Only give medications under veterinary guidance. Many human drugs are unsafe for pets.

Will allergies go away on their own?

No. Without treatment, symptoms often worsen and can lead to chronic infections.

Visit Our Plano, TX Veterinary Clinic for Allergy Care

At Coit Hedgcoxe Animal Hospital, our veterinarians in Plano, TX are here to help dogs with allergies find relief. From itchy dog skin to advanced canine allergy treatment, we provide personalized care to keep your furry friend comfortable. If you’ve been searching for a vet near me for pet dermatology care, call today to schedule an appointment.

Visit our Services page here to learn more about our Plano, TX vet clinic and the services we offer. 

This blog is for informational purposes only. Always consult your veterinarian for medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment tailored to your dog.