Hives in dogs can be itchy.
Dog hives are round, itchy welts that appear on the dog’s skin, causing the fur to stand on end. They typically last up to a day or two and are usually caused by an allergic reaction to insect bites, although there are other possible causes as well. Treatments for hives focus on relieving the dog’s discomfort and reducing skin irritation. Frequent cases indicate that something in the dog’s environment is causing these reactions. Severe cases require a visit to the vet for stronger treatment, such as corticosteroid injections.
Canine hives are usually caused by an allergic reaction to insect bites.
The swollen appearance of hives is easy to see in short-haired dogs. Owners of long-haired breeds should also be on the lookout for other signs of this condition, such as swelling of the face or eyelids and persistent itchiness. Hives in dogs appear shortly after exposure to an allergen and usually clear up within 24 to 48 hours.
Allergic reactions to insect bites are one of the most common causes of canine hives. Other causes include certain vaccines and medications, such as penicillin and other types of antibiotics. Flea treatments applied directly to the skin and hygiene products such as shampoos can also cause this condition.
Food allergies can cause hives in dogs.
Veterinarians recommend giving dogs an antihistamine like Benadryl® to relieve itching. Owners should check with their veterinarians about how much is safe to give to their dogs, as Benadryl® causes drowsiness. Other forms of treatment that are soothing to a dog’s skin include oatmeal or tea baths, soaking in cold water for up to 20 minutes, and applying a cold compress wrapped in a damp cloth. If hives occur after a topical flea treatment or shampooing, it is important to bathe the dog under running water and rinse the substance off thoroughly.
A veterinarian can recommend over-the-counter antihistamine options for a dog with hives.
Dogs that have recurring cases of hives often have allergic reactions to something in their diet or to an allergen, such as dust or household cleaning products. In these cases, treatment involves determining what is triggering the reactions and removing it from the dog’s environment. Food allergies require careful modification of the dog’s diet.
Severe cases of hives require a visit to the vet.
Owners should make an appointment with the vet if the condition does not clear up within a few days. Although hives are rarely serious, a severe case that doesn’t respond to home treatments may require injections of a steroid known as cortisone. These injections provide a more effective way to reduce the inflammation associated with hives.