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Allergic Reactions in Dogs

Hi there! We’re sorry your dog is feeling off, but we’re happy to help. Allergic reactions in dogs can range from mild itching to life-threatening emergencies. Knowing what signs to look for and when to take action can make a big difference in your pet’s health.

What are the signs of an allergic reaction in dogs?

What are common allergy symptoms in dogs?

Dog allergies can appear suddenly and vary depending on the trigger. The most common signs of an allergic reaction include:

Hives or red, raised bumps on the skin
Itching and scratching
Redness or irritation

Signs of a severe allergic reaction (anaphylaxis) include:

Swelling of the face, eyes or ears
Difficulty breathing
Vomiting or diarrhea
Drooling or incoordination
Collapse or sudden weakness

A mild allergic reaction may look like skin irritation, but it can progress quickly. If you notice any of the more severe signs, your dog may need urgent care.

What can you do at home for an allergic reaction?

This is one situation where it’s best to skip home remedies and seek veterinary help right away. While mild allergic reactions might resolve on their own, they can also worsen fast.

If you suspect your dog has been stung by an insect or has come into contact with something irritating their skin, try to remove the allergen. You can gently rinse the area with cool water, but don’t delay seeking care.

Can dogs take Benadryl for allergic reactions? Do not give human medications, like Benadryl, unless directed by your vet, as dosages and risks vary greatly by breed and size.

Does your dog need urgent care for allergies?

If your dog is showing signs of an allergic reaction, urgent care may be necessary—especially if symptoms come on suddenly or are getting worse. Breathing difficulties, swelling, or gastrointestinal distress can indicate a severe reaction that requires immediate attention. Even mild reactions should be evaluated, particularly if it’s the first time your dog has shown these symptoms. Allergies in dogs can be triggered by many factors. Food allergies, often caused by proteins such as chicken, beef, or dairy, can lead to skin irritation, ear infections, and digestive upset. Environmental allergens like pollen, dust mites, mold, and grass may cause itchy skin and rashes, especially during warmer months. Insect bites or stings from bees, wasps, or ants are a common cause of severe allergic reactions. Some dogs may also react to medications or vaccines, including dewormers or antibiotics. Chemicals and cleaning products, such as lawn treatments, cleaners, or soaps, can trigger contact or inhalation allergies. Certain breeds, including Bulldogs, Retrievers, and Terriers, are genetically more prone to allergies and skin sensitivities. Because allergy symptoms can mimic other health issues, it’s always best to have a veterinarian rule out more serious conditions.

What are common causes of allergic reactions in dogs?

Allergic reactions in dogs can be triggered by many things. These include:

Food Allergies – Proteins like chicken, beef or dairy are common culprits. Food allergies can cause skin symptoms, ear infections and GI upset.
Environmental Allergies – Pollen, dust mites, mold and grass can all trigger itchy skin and rashes, especially in spring and summer.
Insect Bites or Stings – Bees, wasps and ants are a top cause of severe allergic reactions.
Medications or Vaccines – Some dogs react to vaccines, dewormers or antibiotics.
Chemicals and Cleaning Products – Lawn treatments, cleaners or soaps can cause contact allergies or inhalation reactions.
Genetic Predisposition – Breeds like Bulldogs, Retrievers and Terriers are more prone to allergies and skin sensitivities.

Because allergy symptoms can mimic other conditions, it’s always best to let a vet rule out more serious issues.

What do vets do for dog allergies and what can you expect from your visit?

Your Scout veterinarian may recommend:

Triage: If your Scout care team is suspicious of anaphylaxis (a more severe allergic reaction), they will perform a quick assessment to determine if your pet is stable or will need immediate treatment.

History: Was your pet vaccinated today? Anything new in the environment at home? Insects? Be prepared to answer questions to help your Scout team determine why this happened.

Ultrasound: Oftentimes, dogs with anaphylaxis will have swelling around their gallbladder (part of the liver). Don’t worry! There is no risk of additional damage, but this can be helpful in determining the severity of the allergic reaction.

Treatments: Depending on the severity of the reaction your Scout veterinarian may recommend that they administer injections of anti-histamines, steroids and/or place an IV for fluids. If your pet is having problems with breathing, oxygen supplementation may be recommended.

Oral medications: There are some cases that might require continued treatment at home with oral medications.

Referral: We hate to say it but sometimes your pet needs someone outside of Scout. If your pet is experiencing severe anaphylaxis, we will stabilize your pet and help facilitate referral to an inpatient care hospital in Chicago for ongoing hospitalization and management.

Why choose Scout Veterinary Urgent Care?

You know your dog best. If something doesn’t seem right, trust your instincts. At Scout Veterinary Urgent Care, we’re here to help when your dog needs fast, expert care for allergic reactions or anything else.

We’re open seven days a week with extended hours, so you’re never left waiting. Our experienced team understands the nuances of dog allergies and is ready to respond with compassion and clarity. With convenient locations in Lincoln Park, West Loop, and our upcoming Skokie clinic, high-quality care is always close by.

Whether your dog is experiencing a mild allergic reaction or a life-threatening emergency, Scout is here for you. Book an appointment today or call us with any concerns—we’re ready when you are.