Dog hives, also referred to by the medical name urticaria, are a medical condition where parts of a dog’s skin become raised, reddened, and very itchy. The hives are caused by a dog’s immune system overreacting to an allergen.
Just like human hives, hives can appear and disappear in dogs quite quickly; although they can also cause more serious issues related to a dog’s airways and lead to the condition anaphylaxis.
If you see signs that your dog might be suffering from an allergic reaction, then you must consult your veterinarian for a proper diagnosis and advice. Here’s what you should know about the symptoms, causes, and treatments of dog hives in dogs.
Symptoms Of Dog Hives
Dog hives in dogs primarily bring on the symptom to the appearance of red, raised patches of skin called wheals. These wheals can prove to be exceptionally itchy for a dog.
Additionally, depending on where the wheals appear, they can also cause drooling and swelling.
Causes Of Dog Hives
The causes of hives in dogs are allergens that prompt a dog’s immune system into an overreaction. Some of the most common allergens that can cause hives include:
- Shampoos
- Vaccinations
- Food allergies
- Medications
- Insect bites
- Plants that are toxic or poisonous
Veterinary Treatments
If you notice that your dog is suffering from hives, your veterinarian will want to conduct a detailed examination of the areas of the body that are affected.
Your vet will also want to ask questions about your dog’s recent activities and any circumstances that could have prompted the hives, including any medication your dog may be taking.
The main treatment is medication. Vets can prescribe antihistamine medicines, sometimes along with a steroid. In more severe cases, your vet might recommend injectable medicine and even intravenous fluid therapy.
As always, if your vet prescribes any medicine for your dog, it is vital that you stick to the precise dosage and frequency instructions and complete the full course of medication.
In general, the best way to prevent hives is to figure out what allergen is causing your dog to react to it. This might involve making environmental changes to your home or altering your dog’s diet.
A series of allergy tests can help to narrow down and identify the allergen that is causing your dog’s immune system to overreact.
Has your dog ever broken out in hives? What allergen caused the breakout? Tell us all about it in the comments below.
