Possible causes:

·one study showed an association between the month of birth and the incidence of CANINE ATOPY. Dogs that were born during the onset of pollen seasons more commonly developed ATOPY than the control dogs.

·parasitic diseases may augment the production of IgE to other environmental allergens.

·viral infections, or vaccination with modified live vaccines, have been shown to augment the production of IgE specific for environmental allergens.

Some ATOPIC dogs have a temporary worsening of their disease following annual vaccinations, due to the possible relation to antibody production being limited by a normal suppressive mechanism. The mechanism limits antibody production during any particular response. If anything disturbs the mechanism (viral infection, hormonal fluctuation, etc.), it is possible the dog can have an allergen breakthrough if exposed to sufficient levels of allergen.

ATOPIC dogs are likely to have ear infections (yeast), skin irritation, especially on bottoms of feet, flea bite sensitivity, and food hypersensitivity. It is more common in females, where it causes irregular estrus cycles, low conception rates, and false pregnancies.

CANINE ATOPY can be managed with treatment drugs (veterinarian prescription – usually containing steroids), and by avoiding certain things known to trigger reactions. Ie. dust, molds, pollens - keep dog away from damp basements, avoid having house plants, clean molds with bleach solutions, keep dog out of fields, keep dog indoors at dusk & early morning during heavy pollen season, keep dog away while house cleaning/dusting/vacuuming/lawn mowing. 

Frequently clean dog’s bedding & living areas, avoid dusty dog foods, avoid feathers/feather pillows, tobacco smoke, newsprint, and cat dander (imagine...a dog allergic to cats!). For bathing, use a mild hypoallergenic shampoo. Herbal remedies are available, but must be followed step by step, given in precise doses, and given at certain times. This can be difficult for some owners with busy schedules. Feeding a BARF diet may help. (Biologically Appropriate Raw Foods; a.k.a. Bones And Raw Foods.

Affected BOXERS: most common in WHITE Boxers, although can also occur in Fawns & Brindles.

SKIN ALLERGIES