Types of Dog Allergy Testing and Their Costs
1. Intradermal Allergy Testing (Skin Testing)
Intradermal testing involves a veterinary dermatologist injecting a small number of allergens into your dog’s skin. The skin’s reaction to each injection helps identify the allergens causing the reactions.
The cost of intradermal allergy testing for dogs can range from $200 to $250 on average, depending on your veterinarian, but the test results are quick — within 15 to 30 minutes.
2. Serum Allergy Testing (Blood Testing)
Blood tests, also known as radioallergosorbent (RAST) tests, are another option for allergy testing, measuring the levels of antibodies specific to certain allergens in the dog’s bloodstream.
These can be done by almost any veterinarian, but blood tests are generally more expensive than skin testing. Average prices start at around $200 and potentially exceed $300, depending on the number of allergens being tested.
| Price from | |
|---|---|
| At Home Dog Allergy Tests | $80-200 |
| Vet Skin Allergy Tests | $200-250 |
| Vet Blood Allergy Tests | $200-300 |
3. Elimination Diet Allergy Testing
If your vet suspects that your dog’s allergies are food-related, they may suggest an elimination diet to determine what specific ingredients your dog is allergic to. This would involve putting your dog on a specific hypoallergenic diet and then slowly adding in one ingredient at a time to observe your dog’s reaction.
The cost of this can vary based on the diet you use for your dog and whether it’s home-cooked or a prescription pet food. Regardless, the price can add up quickly because this type of testing is time-consuming.
4. Home-Based Allergy Tests
In recent years, home-based allergy testing kits have gained popularity for their convenience and cost-effectiveness. These kits typically involve collecting a small saliva or hair sample from your dog and sending it to a laboratory for analysis.
Home-based tests can cost anywhere from $50 to $150, making them a more affordable option for pet owners seeking comprehensive allergy information without breaking the bank.
| Types | Price from | ||
|---|---|---|---|
| 5Strands | Pet Food Intolerance Test, Pet Raw Food Intolerance Test, and more... | USD 80+ | |
| EasyDNA | Dog Allergy Test | USD 100 | |
| Allergy Test My Pet | Allergy Test My Pet | USD 100 | |
| Nutriscan | Nutriscan at-Home Pet Food Intolerance and Sensitivity Test for Dogs | USD 200 | |
| Glacier Peak | Glacier Peak Wellness Life Stress Scan | USD 100+ | |
Factors that Influence the Cost of Dog Allergy Testing
The costs given in this article are averages, but several factors can influence the cost of dog allergy testing:
● Geographic Location: The cost of living and availability of specialized veterinary services can vary widely based on your location. Urban areas with higher living costs may generally have higher testing prices.
● Number of Allergens: The more allergens you want to test for, the higher the cost. Some tests might focus on a specific group of allergens, while others offer a broader panel.
● Veterinary Specialist: Working with a board-certified veterinary dermatologist or allergist can impact the cost. Their expertise often comes with a higher price tag, but it can lead to more accurate results and better guidance for managing your dog’s allergies.
Which Allergy Test is Right for Your Dog?
Understanding the cost of dog allergy testing helps you make informed decisions about your pet’s health and well-being.
While the price range for testing can vary based on factors such as the type of test, location, and number of allergens being tested, home-based allergy tests offer an affordable and convenient solution for identifying triggers and managing your dog’s allergies.
Work with your vet to determine which type of allergy testing is right for your dog. Regardless of the type you choose, investing in allergy testing can lead to a happier, healthier life for your furry friend.
