Pet Allergies Cave Creek AZ

Allergies & Skin Conditions in Dogs

Serving Cave Creek, Carefree & North Scottsdale

Skin allergies are one of the most common reasons dogs visit our hospital. Living in the Sonoran Desert presents unique challenges, as certain environmental allergens are more prevalent here than in other parts of the country. Understanding what’s triggering your dog’s discomfort allows us to create a more effective and targeted treatment plan.

The #1 Sign of Skin Allergies

Excessive paw licking is by far the most common sign we see in dogs with skin allergies. While red, inflamed skin and recurrent ear infections are also frequent, constant licking of the paws is often the first and most noticeable indicator that allergies are present.

Atopic Dermatitis – The Most Common Allergy in Dogs

Atopic dermatitis is the most frequently diagnosed allergic skin disease in dogs. It is a genetic condition that causes dogs to develop allergic reactions to environmental allergens. In the Cave Creek and Carefree area, the most common triggers include:

• Dust mites
• Pollen from trees, weeds, and grasses
• Mold spores

Because of our distinct pollen seasons and monsoon humidity, many dogs with atopic dermatitis experience seasonal flare-ups, particularly in spring and late summer.

Contact Dermatitis

Some dogs develop skin irritation from direct contact with substances in their environment. In our area, we commonly see contact dermatitis caused by:

• Fertilizers and lawn chemicals
• Certain grooming products
• Household cleaning agents

This type of reaction typically affects the paws, belly, and areas that touch the ground.

Food Allergies in Dogs

True food allergies are caused by an immune reaction to specific proteins in the diet. Common proteins such as chicken, beef, or dairy can trigger symptoms in sensitive dogs.

We often use two dietary strategies:

• Novel Protein Diets: These contain a protein source your dog has not eaten before (such as duck, venison, or fish).
• Hydrolyzed Protein Diets: The proteins are broken down into very small pieces, making them less likely to trigger an immune response.

An 8–12 week strict elimination diet trial is usually required to properly diagnose a food allergy.

Secondary Skin Infections

Dogs with atopic dermatitis are prone to secondary bacterial skin infections, most commonly caused by Staphylococcus (Staph) bacteria. The inflamed and damaged skin creates an environment where these normally harmless bacteria can overgrow and cause infection. This is why many allergic dogs need occasional antibiotic therapy in addition to long-term allergy management.

Treatment Options

We take a practical, individualized approach to managing allergies and offer several effective options:

• Apoquel (Oclacitinib): A fast-acting daily oral medication that targets the specific itch pathway in allergic dogs. It typically begins working within 24 hours and is very effective at controlling itching associated with atopic dermatitis.
• Numelvi (Ilunocitinib): A newer once-daily oral JAK inhibitor used to control itch associated with allergic dermatitis in dogs. Like Apoquel, it works by blocking specific signals involved in the itch response and offers another daily oral treatment option for dogs that need consistent itch relief.
• Cytopoint: A once-monthly injectable monoclonal antibody treatment that neutralizes the itch signal. It is safe for long-term use and does not require daily pills.
• Pulse Therapy: Many dogs do well with short courses of medication used only during flare-ups rather than year-round treatment. This approach helps minimize medication exposure while keeping your dog comfortable.
• Antibiotics: Occasionally necessary when secondary Staph infections develop. Treating active infections is often an important first step before long-term allergy control can be successful.

Let Us Help Your Dog Feel Better

Allergies can significantly impact your dog’s quality of life, but with the right diagnosis and management plan, most dogs can live comfortably.

If your dog is constantly licking their paws, has recurring skin or ear problems, or seems itchy for much of the year, we’re here to help.

Schedule an appointment today to discuss allergy testing and a customized treatment plan.

Medically reviewed by Bryan Hayter, DVM
Last reviewed: July 2026