Just like humans, beagles can have allergies too. Their body sometimes reacts negatively to substances present in the environment, causing them allergies. In this article, we will discuss some of the most common allergies in beagles.
1. Food Allergy
Food allergies occur when the immune system of the dog reacts negatively to a particular food.
Food allergy can occur due to a specific ingredient present in their dog food. This does not make the dog food brand low-quality. Even the most premium dog foods can trigger allergies. Allergies occur due to one of the ingredients present in dog food.
Dog foods can trigger the allergy in your beagle at any age.
Common Symptoms of Food Allergy are:
- Itching
- Biting paws
- Skin rash
- Ear inflammation
- Vomiting
- Diarrhea
- Fur loss
Treatment
The first thing you need to do is consult your veterinarian and treat the inflation or infection caused due to the allergy.
Your vet may guide you to try various food ingredients one at a time to eliminate and find the source of the allergy. Once you identify the ingredient that’s causing the food allergy, you will need to avoid it from their diet.
Food that commonly causes allergies
While dogs can be allergic to any food item, here are a few of the most common causes of allergies:
- Corn
- Wheat
- Beef
- Chicken
- Soy
- Eggs
- Dairy
2. Flea Allergy
Dogs come in contact with flea every now and then. Flea bites can make your beagle itch. When the flea bites, it releases saliva in the dog’s skin, leading to irritation and itching.
The saliva may trigger an allergic reaction and make your pooch miserable. The allergic reaction can last up to 2 weeks.
Common Symptoms of Flea Allergy
- Excessive itching or biting
- Skin Rash
- Fur loss
- Red bumps
- You can read more about it here.
Flea Allergy Dermatitis (FAD) is the most common type of allergy in dogs.
Treatment
Visit the vet immediately, even if you do not notice flea. Their itching may remove the flea, but the allergic reaction can last up to 2 weeks.
The vet may check for any signs of flea, infection, or open wound. She may even take a blood test to be sure.
3. Environmental Allergies
Beagles are an energetic breed who love to be out in the open. But did you know, things present in the environment can trigger your beagle’s allergy too?
Certain environmental substances can cause allergic reactions in the dog’s body. These includes:
- Grass
- Mold
- Pollen
- Dust
Some plants like daylily, bermudagrass, ragweed can also cause allergic reactions in your dog.
Treatment
Firstly, take your pooch to the vet and have them treated for allergic reactions. Take your vet’s guidance to find out what’s triggering the allergy.
Your vet may give allergy shots to increase the resistance to the allergens.
4. Perfume/Cleaning Products Allergy
Beagles can also be allergic to perfumes, cleaning products, or fabric softeners. Inhaling such substances can cause an allergic reaction to them.
Other substances include:
- Deodorants
- Cigarette smoke
- Smoke from burning things.
Treatment
If your vet has diagnosed the allergy, avoid using these things in front of your beagle.
5. Medication Allergy
Medication that is suppose to help your pooch can trigger their allergies too. In some cases, dogs can have allergic reactions to one of the drugs prescribed by the vet.
You can read more about Medication Allergies here.
Symptoms of Medication Allergy
In such situations, symptoms can be severe. Some of the common symptoms include:
- Weak pulse
- Diarrhea
- Hives
- Red Rashes
- Excessive scratching.
Treatment
If you notice any reaction after giving medication, then take your beagle to the vet immediately.
6. Shampoo Allergy
Beagles can also be allergic to shampoos. Wait, let me clarify, they are not allergic to shampoo, but an ingredient present in it.
Medicated dog shampoos are a common cause of allergic reactions. Apart from that, they can even be allergic to perfume shampoos.
Symptoms of Shampoo Allergy
Allergic reactions caused due to shampoo can lead to swelling, hive, itching, or even bald spots.
Treatment
First of all, get your pooch treated by the vet. She may prescribe a different shampoo.
To avoid such allergic reactions, use a good quality dog shampoo. Never use human shampoo for your beagle; it can damage their coat. Here are some of the best shampoos for your beagle puppy.
7. Seasonal Allergies
Just like humans, beagles can have seasonal allergies too. Seasonal allergies are caused when dogs’ immune system reacts negatively to substances they inhale or come in contact with.
These substances are present in the environment only during a specific season, and that’s why they are called Seasonal Allergies.
Symptoms of Seasonal Allergies in Beagles
- Itchy Skin
- Ear Infections
- Red/Swollen Eyes
- Running Nose
- Fits of Sneezing.
Treatment
Your vet may advise you to use allergy serums that can increase the resistance to the allergens.
Another thing you can do is wipe your pooch with wet wipes after coming back inside. You may even bath your pooch with mild oatmeal shampoo every week.
Final Thoughts
It is highly recommended to take your beagle to the vet if you notice any type of unusual symptoms. The vet will help you diagnose the cause of the allergy and suggest treatment accordingly.