Many factors can trigger allergies in dogs, and identifying the right one can be a tricky task. An allergy test, along with a veterinary exam, can provide the solution.
Seeing your furball suffering from allergies is indeed heartbreaking. While not generally life-threatening, allergies can cause a lot of discomfort in dogs. Although most of the symptoms are related to dermatologic issues, some can also develop chronic respiratory ailments if left untreated.
The only way to save your dog from this torture is through a dog allergy test. So, the next time you see your pet uncomfortable, make sure you take it to the vet for allergy testing. It is what this blog post will be about. Stay with us as we shed light on everything you should know about dog allergy tests.
Signs of Allergies in Dogs
Here are some prominent allergy symptoms to look for in pets.
- Itchiness
- Irritated, red skin
- Ear infection
- Licking paws
- Rubbing face
- Sneezing
- Nasal congestion
- Wheezing
- Trouble sleeping
- Blue-colored skin, puffiness, or swelling under the eyes
- Diarrhea
- Vomiting
Types of Allergies in Dogs?
Here are the most common types of dog allergies that you should know about:
- Dermatitis or skin allergies
- Human food allergies
- Seasonal allergies
- Environmental allergies
- Airborne allergies
- Home-borne allergies
- Acute allergies
What are the Types of Allergy Tests in Dogs?
Blood Allergy Test
It is one of the most common types of dog allergy testing. This test is easy and convenient for both the vet and the dog. The vet draws a small sample of the pet’s blood for a detailed analysis. The sample is tested for a wide range of geographically appropriate allergen reactions.
The major allergens are:
- Pollens
- Mold
- Dust
Besides this, a blood test can also help ascertain dog food allergies. Moreover, vets also conduct this test to check allergic reactions to materials like nylon and cotton. The best part is that blood tests are less time-consuming and invasive than other tests. However, these findings are also less reliable than other testing options.
Skin Allergy Test
It is one of the most reliable and successful dog allergy testing types. Both veterinary dermatologists and veterinarians conduct this test. Skin allergy tests are more invasive than blood tests as it needs sedation for detailed examination. Here are the steps for conducting a skin allergy test:
The pet is sedated and placed on a flat surface.
A small portion of the pet’s body is shaved.
The vet will inject small doses of allergens under the pet’s skin. It is done in a particular order and pattern. The moment the pet displays a small raised reaction, the specific allergen causing it can be traced.
After some time, the injected area is examined to check which allergen triggered a reaction. The vet will prescribe the most effective treatment option based on the results. However, skin allergy test reports can be inaccurate if the pet has taken steroids or antihistamines recently. Make sure you disclose all the medications and diet your pet has been taking lately.
Saliva Allergy Test
Hair Allergy Test
Dog Allergy Test Kits
Here is a list of the top three at home dog allergy test kits.
EasyDNA
It will be one of the most popular and trusted dog allergy test kits in 2022. EasyDNA test kit scans over 120 common environmental and food allergies in dogs. It measures the antibodies present in the pet’s saliva against every allergen.
A high antibody level indicates intolerance and sensitivity to the item. The kit ranks substances on parameters like mild intolerance, strong intolerance, and no reaction. You can get the test reports within 2 to 3 days of mailing the sample.
NutriScan
NutriScan is the sole dog and cat food allergy test kit that determines food intolerances. However, it does not test for pollens, fleas, mold, and other environmental allergens. This test kit calculates antibodies to 24 food items like corn, soy, chicken, beef, and so on in the pet’s saliva.
The results will disclose the names of the food items you should avoid for your pet. That’s not all. It also displays the food intolerance levels like high, normal, borderline, or no reaction.
5Strands Pet Food and Environmental Intolerance Test Kit
It is a comprehensive dog hair allergy test kit that tests for over 380 food items and environmental factors. The lab scans the hair samples of the pet with innovative bio-resonance technology. Easy-to-understand reports and color-coded results make understanding dog allergies super easy for pet owners.
The report has two color codes; red and yellow. Food items marked in red should be avoided completely. At the same time, yellow ones should be given with caution. You can also consult the helpdesk experts for better clarity.
