A respiratory allergy in dogs
Respiratory allergies are uncommon in dogs. In many cases, an allergic reaction manifests as skin problems. However, when a respiratory allergy does occur, it often affects the upper respiratory tract (nose, sinuses, throat, and windpipe). You can somewhat compare a respiratory allergy in dogs to hay fever in humans. A dog can be allergic to, for example, pollen or grass seeds, in which case the allergy is seasonal; a dog can also be allergic to, for example, house dust mites, in which case the allergy is not seasonal.
If your dog coughs occasionally or has nasal discharge, there is usually no cause for concern. This can happen from time to time. However, if it becomes a recurring or persistent problem, it is advisable to contact your veterinarian. Together with the vet, you can determine whether a respiratory allergy is present and identify or rule out any other health issues.
Symptoms of a respiratory allergy in dogs
Inhaling dust particles and pathogens can irritate a dog's airways. If your dog is otherwise healthy but experiences sneezing, panting, watery eyes, or watery nasal discharge from both nostrils, the dog may be suffering from a respiratory allergy. Try to identify the cause of this allergy and avoid it as much as possible.
If your dog is prone to ear infections and also suffers from skin problems such as itching on the head, paws, armpits, or groin, hair loss, and skin rashes, this may indicate a food allergy or intolerance. In these cases, it is best to consult a veterinarian to rule out certain conditions.
Treatment of a respiratory allergy in dogs
If you are unable to determine the cause of the allergy, visit your veterinarian. They can perform an allergy test to try to identify what is causing the dog's respiratory allergy. Subsequently, the vet may prescribe immunotherapy, also known as hyposensitization. This often helps dogs become less sensitive to the substances causing their symptoms. However, this therapy will never completely cure the allergy in the dog. Therefore, always ensure your dog’s resilience by supporting the immune system with vitamins and minerals. Additionally, try to keep the cause of your dog’s allergies away and use suitable natural products to support your dog’s airways.
