What Causes Skin Problems in Labradors?

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     Labradors are one of the most faithful loving breeds of dog. They generally have a wonderful temperament and lovely coats. Unfortunately they are also one of the few breeds of dog that have very sensitive skin and are extremely prone to a wide variety of skin problems.

Labradors are more likely to suffer from flea allergies than any other dog, often only needing to be bitten just once before becoming allergic. Flea Allergy Dermatitis is easily recognisable as your Labrador will be constantly scratching like mad and will red, raised bumpy patches on his skin. You not actually see a flea on him though; due to the constant grooming and scratching most fleas will have been removed from his skin.

Regular flea treatment for your dog and house are essential to keep this pest at bay. As some dogs are also allergic to flea collars a natural shampoo and regular grooming are the best solutions. You could also try adding a little garlic to his food ?start off with a very small amount and gradually build it up if he shows no reaction to it.

Food allergies are another common skin problem that Labradors suffer from. You may not even know that your dog has a food allergy especially if he has been on the same diet all of his life. Most of the common food allergies are from wheat, corn or beef products. The symptoms your Labrador may exhibit with a food allergy are severe itching and red bumpy patches of skin on his feet, his stomach, around his ears and on the backs of his legs.

You will need to consult a vet if you suspect your Labrador is suffering from a food allergy. He will need to run tests and your dog will likely be placed on an exclusion diet for a while to determine what he is actually allergic to.

Your Labrador is also likely to suffer from contact allergies more than most other breeds. He may be allergic to rubber or plastic, certain soaps, shampoos, flea collars, wool or synthetic materials and even some medications. Signs of a contact allergy will include blistered lesions and bumps on the muzzle, stomach and back of the legs. Our Labrador may even try to scratch his stomach by rubbing on the floor which will just make the condition worse.

The best solution is to remove the source of the irritant and to treat the allergy by gentle and regular bathing in a natural shampoo or with medications prescribed by your vet. The symptoms that are exhibited by this type of allergy are similar to other conditions so medical advice should be sought to determine the best course of treatment.

Whilst Labradors may suffer from many different problems they are still a wonderful dog to keep as a family pet. With the right treatment, regular bathing and grooming and a good healthy diet there is no reason why your Labrador should suffer with too many allergies and will live a long and healthy, pain and irritant free life.

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