Allergies in Cocker Spaniels

Cocker spaniels are among the most active dog breeds today. Despite such healthy lifestyle, they are still vulnerable against health problems. Some of these problems could get very severe and difficult to treat. Other concerns such as cocker spaniel allergies can be easily managed. Be familiarized with sources and factors that could make your pet allergic.

The top allergy many cockers suffer from is on certain foods. The cockers most vulnerable to food allergies are those between two to six years old. However, older dogs can still get inflicted. Generally, this dog breed is allergic to milk, corn, beef and preservatives and additives in commercially produced dog chow.

Note that the common symptoms of having cocker spaniel allergies on food include hair loss, bald patches, dander, uncontrollable scratching, skin rashes and more frequent elimination or diarrhea. In some cases, the dog might vomit at the smallest bite or passing smell of the food he is allergic to.

On the other hand, note that some of these symptoms are similar to food intolerance. To determine which foods your pet is allergic to, your primary move is to employ food trials or elimination diets for your pet for about 12 weeks. You can devise your own food trial, which may consist of novel protein and carbohydrate sources. There are also commercially prepared diets available on the market. If these fail, consult your veterinarian for better diagnosis of your pet's food allergies. Blood testing for your dog might be recommended.

Cocker spaniel allergies may also be brought about by various environmental factors. One of which is through inhalants. This allergen comes in different forms. These include dust mites, chemicals from different household products, pollens, grasses, mold and perfumes.

Once your dog goes in contact with any of these allergens, his immune system will be triggered to produce histamines which in turn will prompt the symptoms to show. The common allergic reactions your pet might exhibit include sneezing, wheezing, coughing, having hot spots, excessive chewing of paws and licking.

For most cases, cocker spaniel allergies due to inhalants go away on their own or as soon as the exposure of the pet to the inhalant has been eliminated. Then again, if the symptoms get severe, treatment is necessary. Your dog might be subjected to take in steroids and/or antihistamines. Vaccination shots may also be given if the allergen has already been isolated.

Contact and pest allergies are also pertinent to cockers. The former type could be caused by various materials such as plastic, wool, sand and other synthetic items. The latter could be brought about by fleas and other parasites. Both these allergy types can bring about rashes, blisters and intense itching. If left untreated, your dog could develop skin infections or dermatitis. Injectable corticosteroids may be prescribed for severe cases.

Now that you have a general idea of the common cocker spaniel allergies, you are more equipped in setting up a healthier environment for your pet. As a result, you will have a more satisfied, energetic and healthy pet.