Understanding Dog Skin Allergies: Types, Symptoms, and Management

If your dog is constantly scratching, licking their paws, or developing skin problems, allergies may be the cause. Skin allergies are among the most common health issues in dogs, affecting up to 10-15% of the population.

This guide helps you understand the different types of allergies, recognise the symptoms, and work with your vet toward effective management.

Types of Dog Allergies

Dogs can develop three main types of allergies that affect the skin:

1. Flea Allergy Dermatitis (FAD)

The most common skin allergy in dogs.

Dogs with FAD aren’t allergic to fleas themselves—they’re allergic to flea saliva. A single flea bite can trigger intense itching that lasts for days or weeks.

Key signs:

• Intense scratching, especially at the tail base and hindquarters
• Hair loss on the lower back and hind legs
• Red, irritated skin
• Hot spots (secondary bacterial infections)
• You may not see fleas—allergic dogs often overgroom, removing evidence

2. Environmental Allergies (Atopic Dermatitis)

Allergies to environmental triggers like pollen, dust mites, mould, and grass. Usually develops between ages 1-3 and tends to worsen over time without treatment.

Key signs:

• Itchy paws (excessive licking)
• Itchy ears (recurrent ear infections)
• Itchy face (rubbing on carpet, furniture)
• Itchy armpits, groin, and belly
• Seasonal patterns (worse in spring/summer for pollen allergies)
• Year-round symptoms (for dust mite or indoor allergies)

3. Food Allergies

True food allergies are less common than many people think—only about 10% of allergic dogs have food allergies. However, they can cause significant skin symptoms.

Key signs:

• Year-round itching (no seasonal pattern)
• Recurrent ear infections
• Gastrointestinal issues (vomiting, diarrhoea) in some dogs
• Itching that doesn’t respond to flea prevention or seasonal allergy treatments

Common allergens: beef, dairy, chicken, wheat, soy, eggs. Dogs can develop allergies to proteins they’ve eaten for years.

Recognising Allergy Symptoms

Early Signs

• Scratching more than usual
• Licking paws frequently
• Rubbing face on carpet or furniture
• Head shaking or ear scratching
• Mild redness in ears or on skin

Progressive Signs

• Red, inflamed skin
• Hair loss (from scratching or licking)
• Darkened skin (hyperpigmentation)
• Thickened, “elephant skin” texture
• Recurring ear infections
• Hot spots
• Skin infections (bacterial or yeast)

Common Itch Locations by Allergy Type

Allergy Type	Primary Itch Locations
Flea allergy	Lower back, tail base, hindquarters
Environmental	Paws, ears, face, armpits, groin
Food	Ears, paws, rear end (less predictable)

Getting a Diagnosis

Allergies are diagnosed through a combination of history, examination, and sometimes testing:

Process of Elimination

1. Rule out fleas first — Strict flea prevention for 8-12 weeks minimum
2. Consider food trial — If symptoms persist year-round, a strict elimination diet for 8-12 weeks
3. Environmental allergies — Often diagnosed after ruling out other causes

Allergy Testing

• Blood tests (serology) — Can identify environmental allergens; less reliable for food
• Intradermal skin testing — Gold standard for environmental allergies, done by dermatologists
• Food trials — Only reliable way to diagnose food allergies (no accurate blood test exists)

What to Tell Your Vet

• When symptoms started
• Seasonal patterns (or year-round)
• Which body parts are affected
• Current diet and treats
• Flea prevention history
• Previous treatments and their effectiveness

Managing Allergies

Most allergies can’t be cured, but they can be managed effectively.

Flea Allergy

Prevention is the only treatment.

• Year-round flea prevention—no breaks
• Treat all pets in the household
• Environmental treatment (wash bedding, vacuum frequently)
• Even one flea bite can trigger a reaction in sensitive dogs

Environmental Allergies

Reduce Exposure:

• Wipe paws after walks (removes pollen)
• Bathe regularly with gentle shampoo (removes allergens from coat)
• Wash bedding weekly in hot water
• Use air purifiers with HEPA filters
• Limit outdoor time during high pollen days

Medical Management:

• Apoquel/Cytopoint — Prescription medications that control itch effectively
• Antihistamines — Help some dogs; less effective than newer treatments
• Immunotherapy (allergy shots/drops) — Desensitises the immune system over time; requires allergy testing first
• Steroids — Effective for short-term relief; not ideal for long-term use
• Medicated baths — Soothe skin and remove allergens

Food Allergies

Elimination Diet:

• Feed a novel protein (something your dog has never eaten) or hydrolysed protein diet
• Strictly for 8-12 weeks—no treats, no table scraps, no flavoured medications
• If symptoms improve, challenge with previous diet to confirm
• Identify and avoid trigger ingredients long-term

Common Novel Proteins: Kangaroo, venison, duck, rabbit (depending on previous diet history)

Dealing with Secondary Infections

Allergic skin becomes vulnerable to infections:

Bacterial Infections

• Pustules, crusts, hair loss
• Often need antibiotic treatment
• Medicated baths can help mild cases

Yeast Infections

• Greasy skin, musty odour
• Often in ears, paws, and skin folds
• Need antifungal treatment
• Recurring without allergy management

Treating infections provides relief, but symptoms return unless the underlying allergy is managed.

Grooming for Allergic Dogs

Proper grooming helps manage allergy symptoms:

Bathing

• More frequent bathing (weekly or as directed) removes allergens and soothes skin
• Use medicated shampoos as recommended by your vet
• Oatmeal-based shampoos soothe mild itching
• Rinse thoroughly—residue can irritate

Coat Care

• Regular brushing removes allergens trapped in coat
• Keep coat clean but not over-bathed (can dry skin)
• Consider shorter cuts for easier maintenance and bathing

Paw Care

• Wipe or wash paws after every walk
• Check between toes for redness or yeast buildup
• Keep paw hair trimmed

See our bathing guide for technique.

Breeds Prone to Allergies

Some breeds are genetically predisposed:

• Labrador Retrievers
• Golden Retrievers
• German Shepherds
• Bulldogs (English and French)
• West Highland White Terriers
• Cocker Spaniels
• Boxers
• Many doodle crosses

If you have a predisposed breed, watch for early signs and address them promptly.

When to See the Vet

See your vet if:

• Scratching is affecting your dog’s quality of life
• You see skin lesions, hair loss, or infections
• Ear infections keep recurring
• Symptoms don’t improve with basic management
• Your dog is in visible discomfort

Allergies worsen without treatment. Early intervention is easier and less expensive than managing advanced disease.

Common Myths

“Grain-free food will fix allergies”
Grain allergies are actually rare in dogs. Most food allergies are to proteins (chicken, beef). Grain-free diets don’t help unless your dog is specifically allergic to grain.

“It’s just seasonal—it will pass”
Environmental allergies typically worsen each year without treatment. Early management prevents progression.

“Over-the-counter antihistamines should work”
Antihistamines help some dogs but are far less effective than newer prescription options. Don’t delay proper treatment while trying OTC options.

The Bottom Line

Allergies are frustrating but manageable. The key is identifying the type of allergy and working with your vet on an appropriate management plan. Most allergic dogs can live comfortably with proper treatment.

Don’t wait until symptoms are severe—early intervention is easier on your dog and your wallet.

For related skin health topics, see our guides on hot spots, doodle skin problems, and signs of an unhealthy coat.

Related Reading

Continue exploring our grooming guides:

• Grass Seeds and Dogs: The Hidden Danger Every Australian Dog Owner Must Know
• Winter Coat Care: Protecting Your Dog’s Skin and Fur in Cold Weather
• Summer Grooming Tips: Keeping Your Dog Cool and Comfortable

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