Common Allergies That Cause Hives in Dogs

Common allergies that can cause hives in dogs include food allergies, vaccination allergies, insect bites, and soap or shampoo allergies. Hives in dogs are usually red bumps on the skin that cause intense itching and discomfort, and the use of medications will be needed to reduce the pain. To learn more about common allergies that cause hives in dogs, read on.

What Are Hives?

Hives are raised, red bumps on the skin caused by an allergic reaction to a substance or material your dog is sensitive to. Hives generally appear within 24 hours after being exposed to the offending substance. Common causes of hives in dogs include the following:

  • Insect bites
  • Drug allergies, such as vaccination sensitivities
  • Allergic reactions to insecticides or lawn treatments
  • Food allergies
  • Shampoo or soap allergies

If your dog has hives, he will likely be itching and scratching intensely, and showing signs of extreme discomfort. Hives can easily be identified by their appearance, which is usually red, raised and bumpy.

Other symptoms of hives may include:

  • Warts on the skin
  • Bumpy spots
  • Breathing difficulties
  • Shedding or hair loss
  • Dry skin
  • Oily hair
  • Smelly coat
  • Rashes
  • Skin lesions
  • Puffy face or eyes
  • Patches of yellow skin

Hives in dogs are never a serious or life-threatening condition, but they can cause extreme discomfort to your pet. If you notice symptoms of hives on your dog, contact a veterinarian promptly so that the condition can be treated.

Treatment for Hives in Dogs

If your dog has hives, there are several ways they can be treated. Antihistamines like Benadryl may be given to reduce itchiness and discomfort in your pet. Cold baths are also very effective in relieving dry, itchy skin. They can be even more effective if used with oatmeal.

A veterinarian can also be contacted for the treatment of hives in your pet. He may prescribe a topical cream or ointment to relieve itchiness and heal the hives. It is also important to find the underlying cause of the hives, and the allergy that triggered them. Once the underlying cause has been established, pet owners should not allow their pet to come into contact with the substance again. In the case of food allergies, a new diet will need to be given to your pet to ensure he doesn't develop more hives.

If your dog is allergic to his current shampoo or soap, he will need to be given a new shampoo that does not cause an allergic reaction. It is also important to remove all materials and substances such as insecticides and lawn treatments that are causing an allergic reaction or sensitivity in your pet.

 

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