The itchy dog, the most common response to an allergic reaction, is so common that it’s often featured in cartoon images and pop culture references. At one time or another, most dogs experience recurrent bouts of an itch, which can be localized to the neck and ears or diffuse, moving from one area to another or covering the entire body.

Exasperated pet owners find themselves wandering the aisles of pet stores looking for products to ease their pet’s discomfort. Allergies are difficult to pin down and may not be discovered by a routine visit to the veterinarian. As a second line of expert advice, pet retailers often get the job of helping people pin down and alleviate the itch in question.

Knowing the four main factors of allergies and their offending itch symptoms helps with product recommendations and consumer piece of mind.

Environment
Believe it or not, dogs experience allergies just like we do – as a result of seasonal changes in the air we breathe. The most common source of weepy, itchy eyes and ears comes from the same human culprits: tree, weed and flower pollen; mold and mildew; dust mites – just to name a few.

By tracking down annual time frames for the itch, seasons can provide clues about which allergen needs to be controlled. If the itch lasts for just a week or two, it’s likely pollen related. If it persists all year or for most of the year, the source could be in your home as hidden mold, mildew and dust. Cleaning products and air filters for the home provide good product choices for consumers who have narrowed the cause of their pet’s itching to environmental allergens.

Food
Food allergies make up another frequent source of allergic reactions. Located primarily in the ears, these allergies are persistent and develop before 1 year of age or after 5 years. The problem usually arises from the food’s protein source.

For consumers who suspect food, recommend shampoos and other topical products that can ease the itch up to the eight weeks it will take a new diet to fully cleanse the dog’s body of the previous allergic substances. New diets with alternative protein sources, such as lamb, often increase the price point and present an opportunity to up sell a repeat-purchase product.

Other allergy causes include flea bites and persistent bacterial infections. Flea bites can easily be identified and present many over-the-counter solutions retailers can readily stock. Bacterial infections on the other hand are best left to the professionals. Any owner who observes recurrent lesions or open sores on their pet should be encouraged to seek veterinary advice. <HOME>