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A Guide To Bulldog Allergies |
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Written by Bobby Callahan
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Saturday, 12 July 2008 |
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The Bulldog is one of the most popular breeds of dog in the world, and it is really no surprise. They are loyal, friendly and affectionate, and feature a very unique appearance, which sets them apart from other breeds of dog. Although in general this breed does not usually pose many problems, there are a few aspects of the Bulldog that should be understood by anyone interested in getting one for themselves.
by BobbyCallahan
The Bulldog is one of the most popular breeds of dog in the world, and it is really no surprise. They are loyal, friendly and affectionate, and feature a very unique appearance, which sets them apart from other breeds of dog. Although in general this breed does not usually pose many problems, there are a few aspects of the Bulldog that should be understood by anyone interested in getting one for themselves.
Bulldog allergies are actually very similar to human allergies, especially in the manner of the symptoms that are experienced. There are five different major types of Bulldog allergies, which are food allergies, flea allergies, bacteria allergies, contact allergies and atopy. Food allergies are one of the most commonly reported Bulldog allergies, and occur when the dog consumes something that their body reacts negatively to. This could be the dog food that you are feeding them or human food if you tend to feed your dog scraps from the table.
There are a few symptoms to all the different types of Bulldog allergies that tend to develop at the onset of the condition. For food allergies in particular the most common symptom is scratching, due to a skin irritation. A few of the foods that may cause allergies in your dog include beef, chicken, lamb, fish, grains and corn.
Avoidance is obviously the best way to keep your dog from having an allergic reaction, however it can be difficult to determine which specific ingredient in the food is causing the dog problems.
Therefore, the only real way that you can figure out what they are actually allergic to is by using the process of elimination. You will need to read the list of ingredients on the dog food you are using and then begin giving the dog these ingredients, one by one, until you have established which ingredient is causing them problems. Keep in mind that there are some dogs that are allergic to more than one ingredient in their food.
Food allergies are not the only type of Bulldog allergies that your dog may develop. Flea allergies are also very common and this occurs when the dog has fleas living on his body. It is important for owners to realize that their dog is not actually allergic to the flea itself but rather to the flea's saliva. As a result of flea allergies your dog may develop crusts on the skin and patches of hair loss due to scratching, especially if their condition is left untreated for an extended period of time.
Flea allergies are also very common Bulldog allergies, and you should know that allergies to fleas are actually not caused by the flea itself but rather is caused by the flea's saliva.
Regardless of which particular Bulldog allergies your dog is suffering from it is important that if you ever think something is wrong you get them in to see the veterinarian as soon as possible. They will be able to make a proper assessment and from here determine the best method of treatment.
About the Author:
About the author: Bobby Callahan is an avid lover of the Bulldog and has a popular website where you'll discover how to have a happy, healthy and well behaved Bulldog. Among other topics there, you will find out more about Bulldog Problems plus a whole lot more. |
