Breeds that are more susceptible to skin allergies can be challenging to live with. These dogs have sensitivities that can cause irritation and discomfort, which results in scratching and itching. The allergens these dogs are reacting to can be hard to diagnose, but some breeds seem to suffer more than others. Here are nine breeds of dogs that may be more prone and why they might be.
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West Highland White Terrier
The Westie is a companion dog with a long, silky coat that’s prone to developing skin allergies. Skin allergies are common in West Highland White Terriers, though they’re not life-threatening and can be treated with medication or a special diet.
While these little dogs are adorable and friendly, they tend to be prone to various allergy-related conditions like food sensitivity and atopic dermatitis (a form of chronic inflammation). If you notice your Westie scratching frequently or licking his paws excessively, it may be time for an allergy test.
If you suspect your dog has developed an allergy to something in his environment or diet, like dust mites or mold, talk to your veterinarian about what options are available for dealing with it. Your vet might recommend changing foods regularly to avoid excess dander from any one source and Apoquel for dogs to control the symptoms. Apoquel manages the symptoms like itchiness and redness exceptionally well.
American Staffordshire Terrier
This breed is prone to skin allergies, including the most common types of dog skin allergies, such as food allergies. Suppose your American Staffordshire Terrier has an allergy or multiple allergies and irritated skin. In that case, he may experience other symptoms such as licking his paws excessively or scratching himself until he bleeds.
If you notice any signs of an allergic reaction in your American Staffordshire Terrier (such as redness around the face), speak with your veterinarian about what could be causing this problem. They may recommend changing your dog’s diet or giving him medication for the condition.
American Pit Bull Terrier
The American Pit Bull Terrier is one of the most popular dog breeds in the United States but is prone to several different allergies. This breed can be allergic to food, fleas, and other allergens that can trigger symptoms like itching, scratching, and licking.
American Pit Bull Terriers are also prone to skin allergies. They may have eczema or another dermatitis, marked by redness and excessive scratching or licking. Owners need to take their dogs for a check-up if they notice any signs of allergy or dry skin on their pet’s body to know what treatment options are available for them.
Irish Setter
Irish Setter is a breed of dog known for its long, red, wavy coat. Irish Setters are known to be friendly and active dogs. They have been used as hunting dogs since the 19th century and have been shown at dog shows since then.
Irish Setters are prone to skin allergies due to their thick double coat that traps moisture and dirt, which can irritate their skin over time. Owners must brush their pets regularly to remove any loose hair or dander from the coat before it gets trapped against the skin.
Jack Russell Terrier
You’re probably already familiar with Jack Russell terriers, or JRTs. These small dogs are known for their energy and intelligence, but they can also be a bit high-maintenance in terms of grooming. Their coats tend to be pretty thick, which is great if you’re looking for a dog that will keep you warm on cold days. But it also means they shed more than most other breeds and need frequent brushing to keep the hair from clumping.
Additionally, Jack Russell terriers are prone to skin allergies (as well as food and flea allergies). So if your JRT is constantly scratching or rubbing itself on things like the couch cushions or carpeting, this may be an early warning sign that there’s something wrong with its health.
It’s important to remember that any breed can develop skin allergies over time. However, some dogs are genetically predisposed toward having sensitive skin and other related conditions such as food sensitivities or flea infestations.
Chinese Shar-Pei
Chinese Shar-Pei is a breed of dog that is prone to skin allergies. They are one of the most common breeds that suffer from this condition, along with American Staffordshire Terriers and German Shepherds.
The Chinese Shar-Pei has a short coat and a wrinkled face, which are both factors in its tendency to develop skin allergies. The shorter the coat, the less hair there is for allergens like pollen or dust mites to stick to, making it more difficult for them to cause an allergic reaction.
Pekingese
The Pekingese is a breed that’s prone to allergies. The reasons for this can be found in the dog’s genetics and how their owners raise them.
Pekingese have a thick double coat that makes them more sensitive to allergens like food, fleas, and grass. When your Pekingese comes back from a walk covered in pollen from the grasses along your path, it can cause an allergic reaction which may lead to skin problems like hives or rashes on its body.
If you want to avoid these issues with your Peke, you should avoid high-protein foods like chicken and beef. You should also avoid dairy products such as milk or cheese because they could trigger an allergic response due to their high protein content and lactose intolerance.
German Shepherd Dog
Like many dog breeds, German Shepherds can be prone to skin allergies. However, the GSD’s unique hair type makes it more likely to suffer from these conditions than other popular breeds. The breed is known for its double-coated fur, a soft undercoat (known as the “fluff”) covered by longer outer guard hairs that protect and insulate it from the elements. These two layers work together to keep your pup warm in the winter months and cool during summer heat waves.
Lhasa Apso
The Lhasa Apso is a breed of dog that is prone to skin allergies. This small, long-haired dog has been around for centuries and was initially bred in Tibet. It makes a great family pet because it’s loyal, playful, and affectionate with children.
Unfortunately, the Lhasa Apso can also be very sensitive to environmental triggers like dust mites or pollen from grasses. Its thick coat of fur traps allergens against their skin, making them prime candidates for skin allergies such as atopic dermatitis (AD).
Conclusion
We hope you’ve found our list of allergy-prone dog breeds helpful. While it might feel counterintuitive to adopt a pup that’s more likely to have allergies, we believe that a well-cared-for pet is always worth the risk. If you’re worried about skin allergies, consider adopting an older dog from a rescue organization instead of getting a puppy.
Not only will this help you determine your new pet’s health needs before bringing them home, but it will also save the life of an innocent animal. Regardless of how old they are and where they come from, spending time with your new canine friend over the coming years is a rewarding adventure.
