Shih Tzus are adorable and affectionate companions, but they are also prone to allergies. If your Shih Tzu is constantly scratching, licking its paws, or experiencing skin irritations, allergies may be the culprit. These reactions can be triggered by various factors, including food, environmental allergens, or skin sensitivities. Understanding the causes of allergies and knowing how to manage them can help keep your Shih Tzu comfortable and healthy.
Since allergies in dogs can lead to chronic discomfort, infections, and even behavioral issues, it’s important to identify the allergens, provide relief, and prevent future flare-ups. In this guide, we’ll explore the common types of allergies in Shih Tzus, symptoms to watch for, treatment options, and long-term care strategies.
Common Types of Allergies in Shih Tzus
Allergies in dogs can be classified into three main categories: food allergies, environmental allergies, and contact allergies. Each type requires a different approach for treatment and prevention.
1. Food Allergies
Shih Tzus can develop food allergies or intolerances to specific ingredients in their diet. Common food allergens include:
- Chicken
- Beef
- Dairy (milk, cheese, yogurt)
- Grains (wheat, corn, soy)
- Artificial additives or preservatives
Signs of Food Allergies:
- Chronic itching and skin irritation (especially around the face, ears, and paws)
- Frequent ear infections
- Digestive issues (diarrhea, vomiting, gas)
- Red, inflamed skin or hot spots
2. Environmental Allergies (Atopic Dermatitis)
Just like humans, dogs can suffer from environmental allergens like pollen, dust mites, mold, and grass. These allergies are often seasonal but can persist year-round in some cases.
Common Environmental Allergens:
- Pollen from trees, grass, and flowers
- Dust mites in carpets, bedding, and upholstery
- Mold spores in damp areas
- Cigarette smoke and air pollution
Signs of Environmental Allergies:
- Constant paw licking or chewing
- Red, watery eyes and sneezing
- Frequent scratching, especially near the belly, face, and armpits
- Hair loss or patchy coat due to excessive scratching
- Ear infections or inflammation
3. Contact Allergies
Contact allergies occur when a Shih Tzu’s skin reacts to something it touches. This can include shampoos, laundry detergents, carpets, or even certain types of plastic bowls.
Signs of Contact Allergies:
- Localized redness and irritation (often on the belly, paws, or muzzle)
- Rashes or bumps on the skin
- Excessive scratching after coming into contact with a specific surface or product
How to Diagnose Allergies in a Shih Tzu
Since allergy symptoms overlap with other skin conditions, it’s important to get a proper diagnosis. Your veterinarian may perform:
- Skin Scraping or Blood Tests – To check for environmental allergens.
- Food Elimination Diet – To identify food allergies by removing and reintroducing specific ingredients.
- Allergy Patch Test – To determine contact allergens.
How to Treat Allergies in a Shih Tzu
1. Treating Food Allergies
If your Shih Tzu has a food allergy, the best solution is an elimination diet. Follow these steps:
- Switch to a limited-ingredient diet (hypoallergenic dog food with novel proteins like duck or venison).
- Avoid common allergens like chicken, beef, and dairy.
- Introduce new ingredients one at a time to identify the trigger.
- Consider grain-free or homemade diets (approved by a vet) if grains cause reactions.
Supplements for Food Allergies:
- Omega-3 fatty acids (from fish oil) to reduce inflammation.
- Probiotics to improve gut health and digestion.
- Coconut oil (small amounts) for skin hydration.
2. Treating Environmental Allergies
Environmental allergies can be managed but not completely cured. The goal is to reduce exposure to allergens and relieve symptoms.
Reducing Exposure to Environmental Allergens:
- Wipe paws and coat with a damp cloth after outdoor walks to remove pollen.
- Use a HEPA air purifier to reduce dust and allergens inside the home.
- Wash your dog’s bedding and toys frequently to eliminate dust mites.
- Keep windows closed during peak allergy seasons to reduce pollen exposure.
Medical Treatments for Environmental Allergies:
- Antihistamines (like Benadryl or Apoquel) – Help relieve itching (consult your vet for dosage).
- Hypoallergenic shampoos – Soothe irritated skin with oatmeal or aloe vera.
- Steroid or allergy shots (immunotherapy) – For severe cases under veterinary supervision.
3. Treating Contact Allergies
If you suspect a contact allergy, identify the source of irritation and remove it.
Common Culprits:
- Plastic food bowls → Use stainless steel or ceramic bowls instead.
- Scented shampoos or detergents → Switch to hypoallergenic products.
- Synthetic carpets or bedding → Choose cotton or natural fiber materials.
A medicated skin spray with hydrocortisone can help reduce inflammation from contact allergies.
Home Remedies to Relieve Allergy Symptoms
While veterinary treatments are essential, home remedies can provide extra relief for mild allergy symptoms.
1. Oatmeal Baths
An oatmeal soak can calm itchy, inflamed skin.
- Mix ground oatmeal into a warm bath and let your dog soak for 10–15 minutes.
- Rinse thoroughly and pat dry.
2. Coconut Oil or Aloe Vera
Applying coconut oil or pure aloe vera gel to irritated skin moisturizes and soothes itching.
3. Apple Cider Vinegar Rinse (for Paws and Skin Irritations)
- Mix equal parts apple cider vinegar and water in a spray bottle.
- Lightly mist affected areas (avoid open wounds).
- Soak itchy paws in the solution for a few minutes to reduce yeast infections.
4. Chamomile or Green Tea Compress
- Brew chamomile or green tea, let it cool, and apply with a soft cloth.
- Helps reduce redness, inflammation, and irritation.
Preventing Future Allergies in Shih Tzus
While some allergies cannot be completely prevented, taking proactive steps can reduce flare-ups.
- Feed a high-quality diet with limited ingredients and no artificial additives.
- Groom regularly to keep skin clean and free of allergens.
- Use hypoallergenic grooming products free of harsh chemicals.
- Monitor seasonal allergy changes and adjust your dog’s routine accordingly.
- Avoid unnecessary exposure to known allergens (grass, perfumes, smoke).
When to See a Vet
If your Shih Tzu’s allergy symptoms are severe, persistent, or worsening, seek veterinary care. Signs that require immediate attention include:
- Excessive scratching causing wounds or infections
- Swelling of the face or difficulty breathing (possible allergic reaction)
- Chronic ear infections or hair loss
- Diarrhea, vomiting, or extreme lethargy
Final Thoughts
Allergies are common in Shih Tzus, but with the right treatment plan, they can be managed effectively. Identifying the type of allergy—whether food, environmental, or contact-related—allows you to take the right steps to minimize discomfort. By making dietary adjustments, reducing exposure to allergens, using safe treatments, and consulting a vet when needed, you can help your Shih Tzu live a happy, itch-free life.