Symptoms

• The most common symptoms for dog skin allergies are excessive scratching and constant chewing. Chewing the legs and paws to create open wounds is common. You will also notice hair loss in the areas being targeted. Inspection of the dog will eliminate fleas and ticks and the culprit to the itching. Vomiting and diarrhea are symptoms in some dogs with food allergies, but usually are shown in conjunction with the other symptoms.
  
  

Breeds Susceptible

• While any dog has the possibility of having allergies, the most common breeds are the terrier, retriever and setter, and are usually referred to as water or oily skin breeds. Breeds with a flat face are also known to have allergies and include bulldogs, pugs and Boston terriers.
  
  

Shampooing Treatment

• Proper and regular grooming of the dog aids in skin and coat health and includes regular brushing and baths. Shampooing with an oatmeal soothing shampoo works to eliminate dandruff and skin irritations in dogs with oily coat. Always wash a dog in cool water, not hot. Over shampooing a dog with a dry coat or dry, flaky skin can worsen the problem. A veterinarian prescribed medicated shampoo may be necessary if the over-the-counter oatmeal shampoo does not relieve the symptoms. Sprays containing oatmeal or aloe can also be applied to reduce itching.
  
  

Food Treatment

• Foods that have corn listed as top ingredients should be replaced with higher protein foods. A higher protein diet and Omega-3 fatty acid supplement aids in skin health, and will help with itching and dander control. Food allergies will show up in a dog at any age. Eliminating that particular food from their diet is the only treatment. In most cases, pre-packaged dog food will be replaced with home-cooked meals for the dog.
  
  

Medication Treatment

• Depending on the severity and type of allergy, a veterinarian may prescribe allergy injections. Antihistamines such as Benadryl work in some dogs to reduce itching. Some dogs may benefit from flea preventing medications applied to the skin to reduce itching and allergies. In severe cases, cortisone treatments may be prescribed but should be closely monitored by a veterinarian.