Dog Allergies: Shih Tzu

Shih Tzu allergies are as common as other diseases that effect both dogs and humans. In fact, both Shih Tzu and Shih Tzu owners may suffer from some common diseases such as diabetes, cardiac problems, obesity and many others. And Shih Tzu allergies may occur more or less in the same way as with human. Although diseases like diabetes, cardiac problems or obesity may stem from unhealthy dietary and physical activity management, allergies may occur from many different types of allergens.

As asserted by veterinarians, Shih Tzu allergies may show the most common symptom of itching sensation all over the skin area. Shih Tzu allergies may occur in the respiratory system as well. When the allergies occur in the respiratory system most commonly the symptoms like coughing, sneezing and wheezing become apparent. In fact, there is a great similarity between the symptoms occurring in both humans and Shih Tzu dogs. Nose and eyes discharge frequently just like with a cold or the flu. Allergies may affect the digestive system also. If so, Shih Tzu may exhibit symptoms like vomiting, watery stools or diarrhea.

Similar to humans, Shih Tzu is vulnerable to many different types of allergens. Flea saliva, for example, may act as an allergen in some Shih Tzu dogs, leading to allergic reactions such as itchy skin. If you are worried about your Shih Tzu’s possibility of becoming allergic to flea saliva, you should take your dog in for a skin allergy examination. If the report of the examination is positive you may have to implement an effective flea control program in order to get your dog relief from this type of allergies.

The Shih Tzu may develop allergies to food also. Beef, fish, eggs, soy products, wheat, chemical preservatives and artificial sweeteners often cause a food allergy to develop in a Shih Tzu. It is always advised that the Shih Tzu be fed with commercial dog foods instead of homemade food products in order to keep it healthy and protected from any possible food related allergies..

Molds and dust mites, the most common forms of environmental substances, may also lead to the development of allergic reaction in the Shih Tzu. These types of Shih Tzu allergies occur due to a hypersensitivity to the immune system in the presence of these substances. The condition is known as atopic dermatitis. It becomes evident that the dog is suffering from atopic dermatitis when you find them licking and chewing different areas of the body including the paws, abdomen and rear feet. Atopic dermatitis may strike areas like the armpit, central areas of the toes of the paws and the groin.

There are few non-harmful bacteria on the body of a Shih Tzu. Most of these bacteria come from Staphylococcus family. However, only a few harmful bacteria may affect Shih Tzu leading to a bacterial allergy. If you find your Shih Tzu is lacking hair unusually and some ringworm type of markings appear all over its body, it is quite possible that the Shih Tzu may have developed a bacterial allergy on the skin. In United States, over twenty percent of all dogs are unfortunately suffering from allergies.

Rebecca Simpson is a dog lover and a veterinarian who has an extensive knowledge and experience regarding the treatment of dogs. The owner must be aware of proper Shih Tzu care so that the dog can grow with optimum health. Information about when and how to choose a vet for your Shih Tzu is available from this article.