A dog with a yeast allergy may experience scratching, biting, and licking of their skin, loss of fur, and overall discomfort anywhere on their body. They may also experience redness, oozing, and hives. Other symptoms can include digestive issues such as diarrhoea, vomiting, or bloating.
A dog with a yeast allergy is typically caused by an overpopulation of naturally occurring yeast, such as Malassezia pachydermatis, on the skin and in the gut. This yeast can be further exacerbated by environmental factors such as humidity or a damp environment, poor diet, compromised immune system, or the use of certain medications.
The diagnosis of a yeast allergy in dogs typically involves a physical exam and review of the dog’s medical history to determine the signs and symptoms. A vet may also perform a series of skin allergy tests such as intradermal testing or a blood test, as well as a food allergy trial to identify the allergen. Veterinarians may also recommend a hypoallergenic diet as well as medication or topical treatments to help relieve itching and inflammation.
Dog with a yeast allergy can be a serious condition if it remains untreated as it can lead to discomfort, infection, and loss of fur. The mortality rate is very low and the main risk is secondary infection if the allergy is severe and not treated promptly.
The best treatment for a dog with a yeast allergy is to first identify if it is truly a yeast allergy or if some other allergy is causing the symptoms. Your vet can help you determine the cause of the allergy. The treatment will depend on the severity of the allergy, but could involve changing the dog’s diet to a hypoallergenic diet, as well as administering antihistamines or steroids to help reduce the allergic reaction. To prevent a new outbreak, you should keep your pet away from potential sources of yeast. Regular brushing and grooming can also help reduce the allergic reaction.
The prevention methods for a dog with a yeast allergy include avoiding foods with high levels of yeast, such as bread or beer; washing the dog regularly with a shampoo that is specifically designed for sensitive skin; and feeding the dog a diet that is low in carbohydrates and high in protein. Additionally, limiting dried food can help reduce exposure to yeast. Supplements, such as probiotics, may also help reduce the risk of yeast allergies. Finally, it is also important to keep the dog’s environment clean and free of allergens that can provoke a flare up.
The yeast allergy in dogs is not contagious, and therefore will not affect humans. However, if the infected dog comes into contact with humans, they may suffer from allergic reactions such as skin irritation or inflammation. It is therefore important for pet owners to take precautions when handling their infected pets to minimize the risk of getting infected with the yeast allergy.
Yeast allergies are commonly confused with flea allergies, food allergies, contact allergies, and seasonal allergies.
When it comes to managing a yeast allergy in a dog, your veterinarian may recommend medication, as well as some dietary adjustments or changes. There are also some home remedies that can be useful in managing a yeast allergy in a dog, such as apple cider vinegar, omega-3 and fatty acid supplements, and probiotics. Additionally, cleaning their ears regularly, increasing their exposure to natural sunlight, and bathing them in warm water with a mild, all-natural dog shampoo can also be helpful.
While these suggested home remedies can be helpful in managing a yeast allergy in a dog, it is always best to consult with your veterinarian for diagnosis and treatment. It’s important to remember that these remedies are not a guaranteed solution.
Many toy breeds such as the Maltese, Shih Tzu, Bichon Frise, Yorkie, and Poodle are especially vulnerable to yeast allergies. Breeds with a more up turned muzzle, such as the Pug, Bulldog, or Pekingese, can also be more prone since the higher yeast count in their mouth area can absorb into the tissue more easily. Signs of a yeast allergy can include swollen eyes, facial swelling, skin lesions, or dermatitis.
Have you ever had to cope with a dog experiencing a yeast allergy? Based on your experience, how did you and your dog respond? It can be difficult to experience allergies, especially for our furry friends. It is important that pet owners are aware of what to look out for when dealing with allergies and how to address them appropriately. If you have been through this process before, how did you manage it? We wish you and your dog the best of luck as you work through the yeast allergy and hope you can both find some relief.
