A healthy dog is a happy dog. Here you can find everything you need to know about keeping your dog healthy. Learn about vaccinations, or treating fleas and worms, and discover how to tell if your dog isn't feeling well.
Allergies in dogs – how to recognise the signs
Does your dog scratch for no reason? Or lick or chew their paws obsessively? If you’ve already checked for fleas, and found nothing, then the reason could be a skin allergy.
Allergies don’t usually develop until a dog is about a year old. Mould, grass, house dust, pollens or even certain foods can irritate their skin.
Atopy is the most common skin condition – an inherited allergy that can occur at any time. This causes the dog to scratch all over, lick and chew at their paws or rub their face. Dogs suffering from atopy may also show redness around their groin and armpits.
Vets can offer advice on medicated shampoos, nutritional supplements and sprays that will help to treat your dog's allergy and relieve their itchy skin. A cool bath may also help to soothe your dog's skin and wash away problem-causing allergens.