The Truth About Canine Hives

---

     Canine hives are allergic reactions that are caused by substances absorbed through your dog's skin or inhaled through the nose. These reactions can occur virtually anywhere on your dog's body. The hives are circular and raised, and may cause your dog's hair to have raised patches. They usually go away on their own within 24 hours.

Causes

Canine hives can be caused by various things. Some of the most common include sensitivity to insect bites, drugs, vaccinations, or chemicals. Also, something your dog has eaten may cause an allergic reaction.

Treatment

As mentioned earlier, canine hives will go away within 24 hours. However, they may cause your dog to be very itchy. This can be treated with oral antihistamines or steroids. Topical medications can also be used to treat the itchiness caused by canine hives.

Some dogs with canine hives start having trouble breathing due to the allergic reactions. If this happens, then the veterinarian will have to administer epinephrine to help your dog breathe properly. If your dog scratches the affected areas too much, he may develop a secondary skin infection. If this happens, then your dog will need topical or oral antibiotics.

Prevention

Canine hives can be caused by certain vaccinations. To prevent another episode, you should make sure your dog's history has a note of the allergic reaction to that vaccination. Canine hives can also be caused by certain foods your dog eats. If you switch dog food brands and your dog develops hives, you should go back to the old food.