Helpful Information About Cocker Spaniel Allergies

Cocker Spaniels are a happy and healthy breed of dogs. However, some health problems may still affect your Cocker Spaniel pet. Among the health issues you need to be familiar with are Cocker Spaniel allergies. Allergies or hyperthyroidism in this breed of canines may be food allergies, inhalant allergies, pest allergies and contact allergies.

Cocker Spaniel allergies relating to food are normally affecting the ones between two and six years old. They may also be experienced by puppies and older dogs. The food that may be causing the allergy could be anything. Most dogs are allergic to milk but some also react to corn, beef, and the preservatives and additives used in manufactured dog foods.

You can tell if your pet has food allergy if he shows classic allergic reactions which are generally exhibited in the skin and ears. Frequent ear infections specifically yeast infection is identifiable with food allergy. Other symptoms of food allergy may include hair loss or bald patches, itchy skin, thick sheets of dander, hot spots, uncontrollable scratching, and increased frequency of bowel movements.

It is important to know that Cocker Spaniel allergies relating to food is different from food intolerance. Food intolerance may happen if your pet is highly sensitive to an ingested food. The dog may also display the classic skin reaction affiliated to allergy but he will not respond to allergy treatments. Food intolerance can be depicted if a dog experiences diarrhea, flatulence, dehydration, vomiting, and upset stomach. Elimination diets are helpful to determine if your dog is suffering from food intolerance or allergic reaction. It can also help pinpoint what food or ingredient the dog is allergic from.

Cocker Spaniel allergies can also be traced to inhalants. When the allergen triggers the immune system into producing histamines, the signs and symptoms start to show. Sneezing, wheezing, hot spots, coughing and extreme grooming and chewing of paws and licking are among the signs your pet is suffering from inhalant allergy.

Dust mites, household chemicals, flea products, pollens, grasses, mold, and perfumes are just some of the substances which trigger negative reactions when inhaled by dogs. The treatment for this type of allergic reaction usually consists of steroids and antihistamines. If the allergen is isolated, a vaccination shot can be given to your pet.

Other types of allergies are Contact allergy and Pest allergy. Contact allergies happen if the dog encounters materials which cause its body to produce negative responses like rashes, blisters and itchiness. Repetitive exposure to the material can cause dry, flaky skin and skin infections. Usual materials causing contact allergy are plastic, wool, sand, and synthetic materials. Fleas and other parasites can cause parasitic dermatitis or pest allergy. The common signs of this allergy are redness and intense itching. Using products containing fipronyl, amitraz and permethrin can effectively control fleas.

Cocker Spaniel allergies are common but preventable. Regular grooming, careful planning of the diet of your pet, and making sure his environment is safe and clean can efficiently minimize the possibility of allergic reactions.