Welcoming a puppy into your family is a heartwarming and exciting time. As you acclimate to living together, you’ll take your new dog to the veterinarian for pet vaccines and a general checkup. Also, you’ll want to keep a close eye on your dog as they experience the world and enjoy mealtime. To help your four-legged friend live a long and healthy life, here’s a list of common allergies to look out for so you know when it’s time to seek assistance from your local animal hospital.

3 Common Dog Allergies Veterinarians Treat

1. Skin Allergies

A flea, tick, or mosquito bite is uncomfortable for any pooch. That being said, some breeds with sensitive skin may have an allergic reaction to these bites that result in excessive irritation as they are unable to stop scratching or biting at the wound. If your dog aggressively scratches or bites their skin, has hives, or has red, irritated patches of skin they lick constantly, they could have an allergy that should be properly diagnosed by a veterinarian.

2. Food Sensitivity

Much like humans, some dogs are unable to process certain food enzymes. These food sensitivities can range for an allergy to beef, chicken, soy, eggs, wheat, or dairy. A food allergy typically presents with gastrointestinal issues such as diarrhea or vomiting.  Dogs can also exhibit symptoms like itchy skin or ear infections based on diet issues. If your dog is suffering from any of the signs noted above, call your veterinarian so you can come up with an elimination diet to pinpoint the exact food allergy and alter their meals moving forward.

3. Environmental

Dogs can also suffer seasonal allergic reactions due to their environment and exposure to allergens like dust, pollen, or even mold. As a result of frolicking in your backyard or wandering in damp areas, your furry friend could sneeze, have a runny nose and itchy eyes, or develop hives or swelling around the ears and muzzle.

Clarkesville Veterinary Hospital has been the premier animal hospital serving pet owners and furry friends throughout Habersham County, GA, since opening over 40 years ago. If you’re looking for an experienced veterinarian who will treat your dog or cat as a member of their extended family, call today at (706) 839-7387 to schedule an appointment. For more information on the comprehensive services this practice provides from pet vaccines and grooming to managing pet allergies, visit their website.