It’s difficult to take care of a dog with allergies. They may itch, chew on themselves, lose fur, and have skin problems like hot spots. The best way to help them is by using medication combined with certain treatment that is specific to the allergies and their symptoms in Chihuahua. If your Chihuahua has an allergy problem, here are 11 ways to treat allergies in your chihuahua!
If your dog has allergies, you can use a variety of treatments to help relieve its symptoms. Antihistamines and corticosteroids are two common medications that work well for allergies in Chihuahuas. Immunotherapy is another option if the first-line treatment does not work. Biotin, Yucca root, probiotics, essential oils, and Elizabethan collars are also ways of helping with allergies.
This post will discuss various options regarding allergic treatment and how they compare to each other so that you know which is right for your Chihuahua dog with allergies!
Medication And Treatment For Allergies In Chihuahua
As a pet parent, you must educate yourself about the various treatment available for allergies in Chihuahua. By understanding the different types of medications and treatment options available, you can better help your Chihuahua live a happy and healthy life despite their allergies!
Omega-3 Fatty Acids
Omega-3 fatty acids operate by lowering bodily inflammation, which is a common sign of allergic reactions. Omega-3s are divided into three categories: ALA (alpha linoleic acid), EPA (eicosapentaenoic acid), and DHA (docosahexaenoic acid) (docosahexaenoic acid).
While all omega-3s may help Chihuahuas with allergies, EPAs are the most beneficial for allergies. DHAs and ALAs are found in vegetables and cereals, while EPAs are found in fish and fish oil.
You can augment your Chihuahua’s omega-3 consumption with supplements like those sold by Nordic Naturals and Nutramax, in addition to feeding him a fish-based diet. Most veterinary professionals recommend a dose of 20 to 50 mg of Omega-3s per pound of body weight.
Do not confuse mega-3 fatty acids with omega-6 fatty acids, as only the former decreases inflammation. Omega-6 fatty acids, on the other hand, promote inflammation and may aggravate the Chihuahua’s allergies.
Nonetheless, Chihuahuas require a 10:1 ratio of omega-6 to omega-3 fatty acids for optimum immunological function. When combined with other allergy drugs like antihistamines or corticosteroids, omega-3s function best.
Antihistamines
Histamine is a chemical that is present in the body’s mast cells in response to allergens. When histamine binds to its receptor, it causes many of the symptoms associated with allergies, such as inflammation, itching, and sneezing. Antihistamines block the effects of histamine. They are useful to treat a wide variety of allergic conditions in humans and dogs alike.
There are two types of antihistamines: H-l receptor antagonists (H-l blockers) and H-receptor agonists (H-r agonists). H-l blockers prevent histamine from binding to its receptors, while H-r agonists bind to histamine receptors and activate them. Because Chihuahuas have more H-l receptors than H-r, they do better with H-l blockers.
Antihistamines’ most common side effects are sedation and dry mouth (xerostomia). Chihuahuas may also experience behavior changes like depression or excitability when taking these drugs.
Corticosteroids
Corticosteroids work by decreasing the production of the cytokines that cause inflammation in allergic reactions; this helps to reduce swelling and itching.
Many corticosteroids used for humans and dogs come from plants, such as Prednisone, a manmade glucocorticoid, or prednisolone, another synthetic steroidal drug similar to cortisol produced naturally by your dog’s adrenal glands.
Cortisone is a natural plant-based steroid, as is hydrocortisone. Corticosteroids can cause many side effects in dogs, so it’s important to consult your veterinarian before administering them to Chihuahuas.
Corticosteroids may interact with other drugs and supplements, such as antihistamines or omega-three fatty acids, increasing their potential for negative interactions.
Immune Modulators
Modulating the immune system is changing how it functions by suppressing or stimulating its activity. Immunomodifiers work on cellular immunity rather than humoral immunity, as corticosteroids do.
This means they affect different body cells instead of having an effect locally at one specific spot (humoral). As immune modifiers are nonspecific, you can use them to treat various conditions.
One immunomodulatory cyclosporine works by suppressing cells that cause inflammation. The vet prescribes this drug for atopic dermatitis (eczema), which is a common skin condition in Chihuahuas.
Another immunomodulatory inhibition is rapamycin, an enzyme called mTOR responsible for cell growth and multiplication; this stops the production of new white blood cells and prevents allergic reactions. Rapamycin is currently being studied as a way to prevent allergies from developing in people and dogs alike.
Immunotherapy
Immunotherapy, or desensitization or allergy shots, is a treatment that uses small doses of an allergen to help the body get used to it. This is done by gradually increasing the amount of allergen given until a therapeutic dose is reached.
At this point, the dog will expose to the allergen on a regular basis in order to keep its immune system from overreacting. Immunotherapy is often successful in treating environmental allergies as well as food allergies.
There are two types of immunotherapy: passive and active. Passive immunotherapy involves giving pre-made antibodies (immunoglobulin) against allergens, while active immunotherapy uses vaccines made from extracts of allergens.
Biotin
Biotin is a water-soluble vitamin that’s part of the B complex. It works by reducing histamine levels and decreasing inflammation, which helps to lessen itching and scratching in dogs with allergies.
Many foods contain biotin such as yeast, liver, egg yolks including Chihuahua’s favorite: chicken eggs! You can also give your dog a supplement that contains this vitamin if they don’t get enough from their diet alone.
Although not commonly used for the treatment of canine allergies, it may be prescribed along with other drugs or supplements. Examples are antihistamines or omega-three fatty acids. These further reduce symptoms like dry skin and hair loss due to excessive grooming/scratching behavior.
Yucca Root
Yucca root, soapweed, or Spanish dagger yucca (yuca), its root, has been a common cure of Native American tribes for centuries to treat a variety of medical issues.
Moreover, Yucca root is high in saponins, natural cleansing agents that help remove toxins from the body. It also contains antioxidants that help to protect cells from damage and inflammation.
You can find yucca roots at most health food stores. They are a supplement or even in your dog’s food. Start with a small dose and increase gradually over time to avoid any stomach upset.
Probiotics
Probiotics are beneficial bacteria that line the gut and support immune function. They are to help prevent and treat allergies and other conditions such as diarrhea, yeast infections, and skin problems like hot spots.
Probiotics are there in many different foods, such as yogurt, kefir, sauerkraut, and kimchi (a traditional Korean dish). You can also give your dog a probiotic supplement if they’re not getting enough from their diet.
Just like with people, the type of probiotic you use will depend on your dog’s specific needs. Some probiotics are specifically designed to treat allergies, while others are meant for overall gut health. Be sure to talk to your veterinarian before starting your dog on any kind of probiotic supplement.
Essential Oils
Certain essential oils help treat canine allergies. These include lavender oil, tea tree oil, and eucalyptus oil. You can diffuse essential oils in the air or apply them directly to the skin. You should always dilute them before use and never give them orally.
When using essential oils for allergies, start with a low dose and increase gradually over time, as some dogs may be sensitive to them. Also, keep in mind that you should not use them if your dog is pregnant or nursing.
Elizabethan Collar
The Elizabethan collar, or the E-collar or neck cone, is a device you can let your dog put around its neck to prevent them from licking or scratching its wounds.
It’s often used following or when a dog has been prescribed antibiotics or other medications to treat a skin infection or allergy. The collar can also help prevent dogs from licking their paws and ingesting harmful chemicals or toxins.
Medicated Shampoo
There are a few different types of medicated shampoos that you can use to treat canine allergies. Coal tar shampoo helps to soothe the skin and reduce inflammation.
Another type of medicated shampoo is oatmeal-based. It is gentle on the skin and helps to relieve itching. You can find both of these shampoos at most pet stores or online.
If your dog has severe allergies, your veterinarian may prescribe a prescription-strength shampoo that contains steroids or antihistamines. Always follow the instructions on the bottle, and never use human shampoos on your dog.
Conclusion:
Your Chihuahua may have allergies due to various factors, such as fleas, food, and even stress, but you don’t have to worry as there are different types of medications and treatment options available to help reduce itching and inflammation so you can enjoy life with your best furry friend!
