Healthy Skin, Happy Dog – Get those allergies under control

Healthy Skin, Happy Dog – Get those allergies under control

We love our Bulldogs and Frenchies for so many different reasons, one of which being their folds and wrinkles. However, bulldogs have very sensitive skin and they do need that little extra to ensure their skin stay healthy.

One of the biggest challenges bulldog owners face, must be the allergies these dogs deal with, that can cause skin irritation, respiratory issues, and digestive problems.

The number one thing most Bulldog owners deal with is food allergy, though this may sound uncomplicated and to be an easy fix, this is one of the hardest to clear up. This type of allergy is often caused by ingredients like chicken, beef, corn, or wheat. Symptoms of a food allergy in a Bulldog may include vomiting, diarrhoea, and itchy skin. To treat bulldog food allergies, it is important to first identify the specific allergen causing the reaction. This is a difficult process of elimination through trial and error where your dog is fed a limited ingredient diet and gradually introduced to new ingredients to determine which ones cause a reaction. Once the allergen has been identified, it is important to eliminate it from your dog’s diet and provide alternative sources of nutrition. In severe cases, medications may be prescribed to manage symptoms and prevent future reactions. It is important to regularly monitor your dog for any changes in their condition and to consult with a veterinarian if any concerns arise. There is also a range of hypoallergenic foods you may want to try, your vet will be able to advise you on those.

Bulldogs are also very prone to Flea Allergies, which can cause a variety of problems for Bulldogs, including skin irritation, hot spots, and even anaemia if left untreated. One of the first signs of a flea allergy in a Bulldog is excessive scratching, biting, or licking at their skin. This can cause redness, inflammation, and even open wounds. These injuries can lead to further problems such as infections or scarring. One way to treat a Bulldog’s flea allergy at home is to give them a warm bath with a medicated shampoo. This can help soothe the skin and reduce inflammation. You can also try applying a mixture of equal parts water and apple cider vinegar to your Bulldog’s skin, as the acidity of the vinegar can help kill fleas and reduce itchiness. Wash bedding regularly to keep it clean.

Bulldogs can also develop environmental allergies, such as dust, mold, and pollen, even grass is a big factor here. Symptoms of environmental allergies may include sneezing, runny nose, itchiness, redness, and inflammation of the skin. It is important that you keep an eye on your bulldog to notice any subtle changes when it comes to their environment so you can take steps to minimize or eliminate the dog’s exposure to something should a reaction be noticed. This may involve using air purifiers or HEPA filters, cleaning your home with hypoallergenic products, washing bedding and clothing frequently, vacuuming, and keeping your Bully away from areas where the allergens are present. Dogs quite often have reactions to our cleaning products, as they are absorbed through the paws.

It is also important to keep your Bulldog’s skin and coat healthy and moisturized, as dry skin can make allergy symptoms worse. You can do this by bathing your Bulldog regularly using a hypoallergenic shampoo and using a high-quality conditioner to help keep their skin and coat clean, soft, and healthy.

Allergies can be a frustrating and uncomfortable problem for both the dog and its owner. Many times, it will be ongoing, and you will need to manage it as best you can. It is important that you work with a knowledgeable vet to guide you and to take preventative measures as soon as you can. Often these allergies are seasonal, and your dog may need to be on medication in seasons where pollen and grass are plentiful. Whatever the case me be, your dogs health and happiness is worth the effort to identify, manage or eliminate the issue at hand.

It is important to keep this in mind before getting a Bulldog, whether you buy or adopt, these dogs are prone to many health issues, and chances are you will deal with at least one of them during your dog’s lifetime. Do your best to educate yourself as best you can, for your and your new dog’s sake.

Source: English & French Bulldog Rescue SA – August 2024 Newsletter

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Disclaimer: The information produced by Infurmation is provided for general and educational purposes only and does not constitute any legal, medical or other professional advice on any subject matter. These statements are not intended to diagnose, treat or cure any disease. Always seek the advice of your vet or other qualified health care provider prior to starting any new diet or treatment and with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition. If you suspect that your pet has a medical problem, promptly contact your health care provider.