6 Symptoms of a Flea Allergy in Dogs

If your dog has been itching more than usual, biting at their skin, or showing other signs of discomfort, fleas may be the cause. Some dogs develop an allergic reaction to flea saliva, which can lead to a condition known as flea allergy dermatitis. In this blog, we’ll explore six common symptoms of a flea allergy in dogs, helping you identify if your pet may be dealing with this issue. If you suspect your dog has a flea allergy, give us a call at Limerick Veterinary Hospital at (610) 489-2848 or book an appointment online to get more information.

 

 

Intense Itching and Scratching

One of the most noticeable dog flea allergy symptoms is excessive itching. Dogs with a flea allergy often develop intense itching around the neck, back, and tail areas. This itching can become so severe that your dog may scratch until they break the skin, leading to further irritation. It’s important to pay attention to how often your dog scratches, as consistent scratching over time may indicate something more than just a minor itch. If your dog’s scratching seems relentless, they may be allergic to flea bites. Flea saliva triggers a reaction that makes their skin inflamed and itchy.

At Limerick Veterinary Hospital, we can help determine if your dog’s itching is caused by a flea allergy or something else. Even though this symptom might seem like a simple reaction, it can cause a lot of discomfort for your dog if left untreated.

Red, Inflamed Skin

Along with excessive itching, you might notice red, irritated skin. This is often due to the dog biting and scratching the affected areas. The irritation is not just from the flea bites themselves but from the allergic reaction to the flea saliva. The skin can become red, warm, and swollen in these areas. For dogs with light-colored coats, the redness may be more obvious, but all pet owners should closely examine any inflamed or sensitive spots.

Inflamed skin is common in the areas where fleas like to bite, such as the base of the tail, inner thighs, and belly. The discomfort caused by inflamed skin can lead to further scratching, which only worsens the problem. If your dog is showing signs of red, irritated skin, it’s best to have it checked out by a veterinarian.

Hair Loss or Bald Patches

Flea allergy dermatitis can also lead to hair loss in certain parts of your dog’s body. If your dog is constantly scratching, licking, or biting at the same spots, the friction and trauma to the skin can cause hair to fall out. This often results in bald patches, particularly around the base of the tail, along the back, or on the legs.

Hair loss in dogs with flea allergies is often localized to areas where fleas bite most frequently. In severe cases, the hair may thin out across larger sections of the body. Hair loss can make your dog more susceptible to skin infections, as the skin is left exposed and vulnerable. If you notice your dog has bald patches, it’s important to schedule an appointment with us. We can help identify the cause and create a treatment plan to relieve your dog’s discomfort.

Small, Raised Bumps (Papules)

Another common dog flea allergy symptom is the development of small, raised bumps on the skin, known as papules. These bumps are a reaction to the flea saliva and are usually found around the areas where fleas are most active, such as the lower back, tail, and thighs. These bumps can be itchy and irritating, leading your dog to scratch or bite at them, which can cause them to rupture and scab over.

If you run your hand along your dog’s back and feel small bumps, this could be an early sign of flea allergy dermatitis. While the bumps themselves might not seem concerning, they often indicate that your dog is suffering from a reaction to flea bites.

Hot Spots

Hot spots, or acute moist dermatitis, are areas of the skin that have become inflamed, wet, and irritated due to constant licking, biting, or scratching. Dogs with flea allergies are prone to developing hot spots because they frequently scratch at the irritated areas. Hot spots can become infected if left untreated, leading to more discomfort for your dog.

These moist, irritated areas often appear suddenly and can grow quickly. The fur around a hot spot might be wet or matted, and the skin beneath can be red and raw. Hot spots are painful and can spread if not addressed promptly. If your dog has developed a hot spot, it’s important to address it right away. Our team at Limerick Veterinary Hospital can help soothe your dog’s skin and treat the underlying flea allergy to prevent further hot spots from developing.

Secondary Skin Infections

One of the more serious consequences of a flea allergy is the potential for secondary skin infections. When dogs scratch or bite at their skin to relieve the itching, they can break the skin’s surface, which allows bacteria to enter. These infections can cause further redness, swelling, and even pus-filled sores. Dogs with flea allergies are more prone to developing these infections because of the constant irritation and scratching.

Secondary skin infections can be painful and require veterinary attention. If you notice that your dog’s skin looks particularly swollen, or if there are open sores, it’s time to bring them in for a check-up. Treating a skin infection early can prevent it from worsening and can help your dog feel more comfortable.

Contact Limerick Veterinary Hospital for Help With Your Dog’s Flea Allergy

If your dog is showing any of these symptoms of a flea allergy, it’s important to get them checked out. Flea allergy dermatitis can be uncomfortable and even lead to more serious health issues if left untreated. At Limerick Veterinary Hospital, we can help diagnose the cause of your dog’s symptoms and create a plan to bring them relief. Whether it’s managing fleas or addressing skin infections, our team is here to assist you.

Give us a call at (610) 489-2848 or book an appointment online to to learn more about how we can help manage your dog’s flea allergy symptoms.