WE CAN HELP WITH...

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.

Book Appointment
scout_visit_4

Symptom checker

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.

Hives or red, raised bumps on the skin

Hives or red, raised bumps on the skin

Itching and scratching

Itching and scratching

Redness or irritation

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.

Swelling of the face, eyes or ears

Swelling of the face, eyes or ears

Difficulty breathing

Difficulty breathing

Vomiting or diarrhea

Vomiting or diarrhea

Drooling or incoordination

Drooling or incoordination

Collapse or sudden weakness

Collapse or sudden weakness

Hives or red, raised bumps on the skin

Hives or red, raised bumps on the skin

Itching and scratching

Itching and scratching

Redness or irritation

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.

Swelling of the face, eyes or ears

Swelling of the face, eyes or ears

Difficulty breathing

Difficulty breathing

Vomiting or diarrhea

Vomiting or diarrhea

Drooling or incoordination

Drooling or incoordination

Collapse or sudden weakness

Collapse or sudden weakness

Does your pet need Urgent Care?

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.
Contact Us

Here’s what you can do at home...

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.
1

Rinse the area.

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.
2

Is Benadryl okay?

Do not give human medications, like Benadryl, to your dog unless directed by your vet, as dosages and risks vary greatly by breed and size.
Happy dog

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.
Book Appointment

Need care right away?

Trusted by thousands of Chicago pet owners.

OPEN NOW

Lincoln Park

2369 N Lincoln Ave,
Chicago, IL 60614
773-245-3108
Next Available Appointment:
Today (1/16/25)
@ 11:15 AM CST
Book Appointment
CLOSING SOON

West Loop

112 N. May St.
Chicago, IL 60607
773-249-2221
Next Available Appointment:
Today (1/16/25)
@ 5:15 AM CST
Book Appointment
CLOSED

Old Orchard

9410-A Skokie Blvd.
Skokie, IL 60077

847-603-2927
Next Available Appointment:
Tomorrow (1/17/25)
@ 7:15 AM CST
Book Appointment
COMING SOON

Wheaton

1962 S. Naperville Rd.
Wheaton, Il 60189
COMING SOON