Allergies in dogs are on the rise: today they affect up to 15% of the canine population. They often present with intense itching, recurring ear infections or gastrointestinal problems, but diagnosing them requires patience.

The 3 types of allergy

1. Food allergy

The immune system reacts to a protein in the food (chicken, beef, dairy, wheat). Symptoms occur all year round: itching, ear infections, chronic diarrhoea.

Diagnosis: elimination diet (8–12 weeks with a novel protein such as venison or rabbit).

2. Environmental allergy (atopy)

Reaction to dust, mites, pollen and grasses. Symptoms are seasonal or chronic: itching around the muzzle, paws, armpits and abdomen.

Diagnosis: skin or serological allergy testing by a veterinarian.

3. Flea allergy

A single bite can trigger intense itching for weeks in sensitised dogs. Typical area: base of the tail.

Diagnosis: straightforward — simply check for the presence of fleas or flea dirt.

Symptoms not to overlook

  • Persistent itching that does not settle
  • Obsessive licking of the paws
  • Recurring ear infections, dark waxy discharge
  • Red skin, crusting, patchy hair loss
  • Chronic diarrhoea or intermittent vomiting
  • Hiccups, sneezing, watery eyes

The hypoallergenic diet

The cornerstone of food allergy treatment. Two approaches:

  • Hydrolysed protein: peptides so small that the immune system does not recognise them (Hill's Z/D, Royal Canin Anallergenic)
  • Novel protein: foods with a single protein source the dog has never eaten before (venison, duck, ostrich, rabbit, white fish)

Duration of the trial diet: at least 8 weeks. If symptoms improve, confirm with a reintroduction challenge.

Available medical treatments

  • Apoquel (oclacitinib): blocks itching within 4 hours, safe for long-term use
  • Cytopoint: monthly injection of monoclonal antibodies
  • Cortisone: effective but with side effects (short-term use only)
  • Immunotherapy (desensitising vaccines): for severe atopy
  • Antibiotics: for secondary skin infections

What you can do at home

  • Bathe your dog with a soothing shampoo (colloidal oatmeal, chlorhexidine)
  • Brush daily
  • Vacuum the dog's bed and rugs weekly
  • Wash bedding and fabrics at 60°C
  • Supplement with omega-3 (salmon fish oil): 1 g per 10 kg of body weight

To build an anti-inflammatory diet, also read the guide on the BARF diet or create a free feeding plan.