Top 7 Signs of Egg Allergy in Dogs
Just like humans, dogs can suffer from allergies, and one of the most common triggers is eggs. It’s estimated that around 3% of all dogs suffer from egg allergy! Eggs can trigger a range of different symptoms in dogs, from mild irritation to anaphylactic shock. The reason why eggs may cause allergies in dogs is because of a compound called ovalbumin, which is very similar in structure to the protein in the saliva of dogs and human skin. Ovalbumin (egg white protein) triggers an immune reaction in dogs, causing them to develop antibodies. These antibodies are then free to react with other proteins that appear similar to ovalbumin, such as those found in the skin or fur of your dog. When this happens, the dog may become allergic to eggs, and develop symptoms of allergy. In some cases, dogs with egg allergies can develop continuous skin problems or hair coat changes. Here are top 7 signs of egg allergy in dogs.
1. Excessive scratching or biting at the skin
If your dog experiences a persistent allergic reaction to eggs, it will begin to suffer from an itchy skin condition. This can be noticed by excessive scratching of the skin, sometimes accompanied by hair loss and an overgrowth of any particular type of hair. The skin problems may also lead to hot spots, which are areas of redness and skin inflammation (scratches). In other extreme cases, egg protein can build up in the ears and cause your dog to suffer from recurrent ear infections. This may be accompanied by a discharge from the ear, irritation, and shaking of the head. An egg allergy may also cause your dog to develop allergic dermatitis, which is skin inflammation with a reddening or rash-like appearance affecting parts of the body.
2. Hot spots
Another symptom that could be a sign of egg allergy is hot spots. These are areas of inflamed skin on your dog’s head, neck, chest, and legs. Hot spots will be noticeably swollen and may be accompanied by hair loss, itchiness, and a red or pink appearance to the skin. The skin will also appear hot to the touch. Hot spots can also be caused by an inflamed lymph node, which is a tiny pink bundle of fluid near the skin. Hot spots may occur due to irritation and inflammation in the glands that produce oil in your dog’s skin.
3. Recurrent ear infections
An egg allergy can also cause your dog to suffer from recurrent ear infections. This is because the allergy can cause your dog’s immune system to produce antibodies that attack your dog’s ear tissue. These antibodies will react with other proteins in the environment, such as those found in dust. The result is that your dog’s immune system will attempt to neutralize the allergen using the same mechanism it uses when it attacks bacteria to fight off infection. Woof! This can cause the ear canals of your dog to become blocked and infected, which results in recurrent ear infections.
4. Diarrhea
If your dog suffers from an egg allergy you may notice that it is often troubled by gastrointestinal symptoms, such as diarrhea. This could be due to the fact that some dogs are allergic to eggs even when they are consumed in their natural form. Sometimes, the dog’s immune system describes egg white protein as harmful and reacts by producing histamines to neutralize this threat. The result is that your dog’s digestive system becomes inflamed and watery. In severe cases, egg allergy could also trigger anaphylactic shock, which is a whole body response to allergens. This is a life-threatening allergic reaction and dogs can die within minutes of going into shock.
5. Vomiting
Another gastrointestinal symptom that could indicate a dog has an egg allergy is vomiting. This may be accompanied by diarrhea, abdominal pain, and difficulty moving around. Vomiting can be caused by the effects of histamine on the stomach and intestines. In severe cases, egg allergy can cause vomiting and diarrhea to become chronic. The symptoms will gradually worsen and the dog could ultimately suffer from vomiting and diarrhea for hours, days, and even weeks. Vomiting and diarrhea may even be continuous and occur on a daily basis.
6. Hives
Hives are another symptom that could indicate your dog has an egg allergy. These are often accompanied by itchiness, dry patches of skin, and redness or swelling of the muzzle, face, and lips. Hives could also be caused by an overactive immune system, instead of an allergic reaction. This can occur when the dog is coming into contact with food containing eggs or other allergens. Hives may even develop in areas of the body which are not exposed to these allergens. The hair coat of your dog may also change and become dry and brittle. In some cases, the hair on the back of the dog may grow in an unusual pattern, such as a mohawk shape. The hair may also stand on end and develop a raised appearance.
7. Diaper rash
If your young dog is suffering from an egg allergy, you may also notice that it has developed a diaper rash. Diaper rash occurs as a result of skin irritation in the area where a dog’s hind legs meet its body. This is due to a combination of moisture, mechanical irritation, friction, and bacterial infection. The area may become red, irritated, and inflamed. This will be accompanied by your dog licking at the area and chewing the fur. The skin in this area may even start to ooze. This may expose the dog to secondary infections.
If you notice your dog scratching excessively and biting at its skin, then it could be a sign of egg allergy. Your dog may also develop hot spots, recurrent ear infections, vomiting, or diarrhea. If you notice these symptoms in your dog then talk to your vet about an allergy test. You should also withdraw the dog from its diet and avoid the egg protein in its environment as this could be triggering an allergic reaction.