Dogs allergies are developed typically after the age of 3 and the allergens may range from pollens to foods. The symptoms of the dog vary, but the allergies cause a lot of discomfort. There are a few tips that can help you manage the dog’s allergies and reduce his negative reactions.
Dietary Supplements
Allergies in dogs occur as a negative response of a weaker or more sensitive immune system. The immune system may be strengthened by a few vitamins and a more balanced diet. Talk to a vet to establish if your dog’s diet is suitable and add a few immunity boosters such as omega 3 fatty acids. Digestive enzymes may be recommended for dogs with food allergies and antioxidants are helpful for the dog’s skin and coat’s health.
Reduce the Dog’s Exposure
In addition to a change in diet, you may also reduce the dog’s exposure to the allergen. This can be done provided you have identified the allergen. There are several skin and blood tests that can detect a certain allergen; food allergies may be detected through food trials.
Pollens and other airborne allergens are difficult to avoid, but foods and other materials that the dog may be allergic to may be removed form his diet or environment.
Air Cleaners
Air cleaners are helpful both for you and your dog; these purify the air from different allergens and dust. If the air inside your home is cleaner, the dog will be less likely to develop negative reactions to airborne allergens. Ask your vet to recommend you some air cleaners that are suitable for pets.
Groom Your Dog
Regular grooming can reduce your dog’s allergic reactions. Research has shown that dogs with proper hygiene are less likely to develop allergies.
This may be due to the fact that a lot of airborne allergens may penetrate the dog’s skin and cause allergic reactions; through cleaning and grooming these allergens are removed.
Grooming is helpful to boost the dog’s immune system by reducing stress.
Use soft brushes and hypoallergenic shampoos to make sure that the dog doesn’t develop allergies to these cleaners.
Use Natural Remedies
There are some natural remedies that can reduce the dog’s allergic symptoms.
Apple cider vinegar or licorice root extract may reduce the skin itchiness, which is a common allergy symptom. The licorice root extract has the same effects as cortisone or steroids, without having the side effects of steroids.
Echinacea, oat or dandelion extracts may also relieve allergic symptoms. These may be used as rinse after the dog’s bath or in the dog’s food.
Clean Your Home
Even if your dog spends a lot of time outdoors, he spends more time indoors. Having a clean home can help reduce your dog’s allergic reactions. By cleaning regularly, you get rid of mold, dust and pollens that may be lodged in the furniture, the drapes or carpets.
In addition to these tips, you should talk to your vet to get allergy shots or proper medication and treatment. The allergy shots may cure the allergies for good, but unfortunately they are not effective in all dogs and not all types of allergies may be treated with shots.