Dog Allergies In Babies: What You Need To Know (2024)

Babies can develop allergies to dogs, and animal allergies are common in children, especially those who also have asthma or hay fever. Allergies to dogs are usually caused by an allergic reaction to animal dander (skin flakes), urine, saliva, or sweat, which act as allergens. An allergic reaction occurs when the body's immune system perceives a normally harmless substance as harmful and attacks it. While fur is often thought to be the cause of pet allergies, it is more commonly a protein in the saliva or, more rarely, the urine of the animal. This protein sticks to the animal's dander when it licks itself, and when the animal moults, the protein is released into the air or touches the skin of anyone petting the animal, causing an allergic reaction.

Babies exposed to dogs early are less likely to develop allergies

It is a well-known fact that pets can cause allergies in both children and adults. However, recent studies have shown that babies exposed to dogs early in their lives are less likely to develop allergic diseases. This is especially true if the baby is exposed to a dog around the time of their birth.

A research study conducted by the UW Department of Pediatrics found that children who had a dog at home as newborns were much less likely to develop atopic dermatitis (AD) and experience wheezing by their third birthday. In fact, the risk of AD decreased from 27% to 12%, and the risk of wheezing decreased from 36% to 19% in children with dogs at home.

The reasons behind this are not yet fully understood, but researchers believe that early exposure to dogs may contribute to the development of a child's immune system. This is supported by the fact that other pets, such as hamsters, turtles, and birds, did not provide the same benefits. Additionally, dogs kept indoors were associated with a larger risk reduction than dogs kept outdoors.

It is important to note that not all studies on pets and allergies have come to the same conclusion. However, the majority of research suggests that early exposure to dogs can influence immune development and reduce the likelihood of certain allergic diseases.

While the link between animal exposure and reduced allergies is not yet fully understood, one theory suggests that living with pets alters babies' microbiomes, protecting them from developing food sensitivities. Another theory, known as the "mini-farm" hypothesis, suggests that cohabiting with pet animals provides a "mini-farm" environment, exposing babies to microbes and other immunoregulatory factors that promote immune tolerance and reduce the risk of allergies.

Allergy symptoms

Pet allergies occur when a baby's immune system reacts to an animal's dander (tiny skin flakes), saliva, urine, or faeces. Babies with pet allergies may experience respiratory symptoms such as coughing or wheezing, as well as hives (raised, red patches on the skin) or skin rashes. Other common symptoms include a runny or blocked nose, sneezing, and itchy, red, or watery eyes. In more severe cases, babies may experience anaphylaxis, a life-threatening allergic reaction.

It is important to note that pet allergies in babies may not always be apparent right away. It can take months or even years of exposure for a baby to develop an allergy to a pet. Additionally, pet allergies can be difficult to manage because dander is small and can remain airborne for long periods, easily collecting on furniture, bedding, and clothing.

If you suspect your baby may have a pet allergy, it is recommended to consult a paediatrician or allergy specialist. They may suggest a skin prick test or a blood test to confirm the allergy. Treatment options may include limiting exposure to the pet, regular cleaning and vacuuming with a HEPA filter, and medication such as antihistamines or nasal corticosteroids.

Interestingly, research suggests that early exposure to pets, especially around the time of birth, may reduce the likelihood of children developing certain allergic diseases. This indicates that early introduction may be beneficial in preventing pet allergies.

Allergy testing

Skin Prick Testing

The most common form of allergy testing is skin prick testing, typically performed by an allergist. This test involves pricking the baby's skin with a small amount of liquid allergens, such as dander, dust mites, pollen, and pet saliva. After 15-20 minutes, the allergist will look for signs of an allergic reaction, such as bumps or redness. Skin prick testing is considered the gold standard for allergy testing and can provide accurate results for babies.

Blood Tests

Another option for allergy testing is a blood test, which measures the body's antibody levels for specific allergens. Blood tests are often used for children with skin problems or those who regularly take allergy medications. While blood tests are not as accurate as skin prick testing, they can still provide valuable information about potential allergies.

RAST Testing

Radioallergosorbent test (RAST) testing is a type of blood test that can be used to determine allergies in dogs. This test may be relevant if you want to understand whether your dog is allergic to specific substances, which can help you identify potential triggers for your baby's allergies. RAST testing only requires a single blood sample and does not need sedation or hair shaving, making it a convenient option.

Intradermal Allergy Testing (IDAT)

IDAT is another form of allergy testing that involves injecting a small amount of the allergen into the dog's skin. This method requires sedation and shaving of the dog's coat to monitor the injection sites. IDAT is typically performed by veterinary dermatologists and may be more expensive and less accessible.

Allergen Sensitization Therapy

If your baby is diagnosed with a dog allergy, allergen sensitization therapy, also known as immunotherapy, can be considered. This treatment involves gradually exposing your baby to small doses of the allergen, helping them build up immunity over time. Allergy shots or sublingual drops are typically given over several years to reduce allergy symptoms.

It is important to consult with a healthcare professional, such as a pediatrician or allergy specialist, to determine the best course of action for allergy testing and treatment for your baby.

Allergy treatment

Yes, babies can be allergic to dogs. Pet allergies can develop during babyhood, but they typically don't cause symptoms before the baby turns one or even two.

If your baby is allergic to dogs, there are several treatment options available. Here are some detailed instructions to help manage your baby's allergy:

• Consult a doctor: The first step is to consult a pediatrician or an allergy specialist. They can recommend specific medications or suggest environmental changes to manage the allergy.
• Allergy testing: To determine the exact cause of the allergy, allergy testing may be recommended. This can include skin prick testing or blood tests to identify the specific allergens triggering the reaction.
• Medication: Depending on the severity of symptoms, your doctor may prescribe or recommend over-the-counter medications such as antihistamines, nasal corticosteroids, or saline nasal rinses. Allergy shots or immunotherapy may also be suggested for older children if other treatments are ineffective.
• Reduce exposure: Minimizing your baby's exposure to the dog is crucial. This may involve setting up pet-free zones, keeping the dog out of the baby's bedroom, and limiting direct contact between them.
• Hygiene practices: Encourage hand-washing after any contact with the dog to minimize allergen exposure. Additionally, teach your baby to avoid touching their eyes or face after playing with the dog.
• Cleaning and filtration: Regular cleaning and vacuuming with a HEPA filter can help remove allergens from surfaces and the air. Consider investing in an air purifier to reduce allergen levels in your baby's environment.
• Laundry and bedding: Wash your baby's clothes and bedding frequently to remove any dander or allergens that may be present. Use hot water (at least 140 degrees Fahrenheit) for bedding and separate laundry hampers for contaminated clothes.
• Grooming: Regular bathing and grooming of the dog can help reduce dander and saliva levels in their fur. Consult a veterinarian for safe bathing instructions and shampoo recommendations.
• Environmental changes: Consider removing carpets, especially in your baby's bedroom, as they can trap allergens. Opt for smooth flooring like linoleum or hardwood. Also, keep the house as dander and pet hair-free as possible.
• Allergy-proof bedding: Use allergy-proof bedding, such as a mattress pad and pillows, to minimize allergen exposure during sleep.
• Pet care: Keep pets off furniture to reduce the transfer of dander and saliva. Use removable throws on furniture that can be washed frequently.

Remember, it is not always necessary to remove the dog from your home. A combination of allergy medication and environmental changes can often help control pet allergies. However, if symptoms are severe and persist despite these measures, rehoming the dog may be considered as a last resort.

Preventing allergies

During Pregnancy

Having a dog at home during pregnancy and with a newborn may lower the baby's risk of having allergies or asthma. According to a study reported at the 2020 American College of Allergy, Asthma & Immunology meeting, owning a dog while pregnant could positively influence a child's immune system into adolescence. The study found that immunoglobulin E (IgE) levels were 28.8% lower in children with prenatal pet exposure. Dog ownership appeared to have the highest impact, with 26.7% lower IgE levels, a trend that continued through the child's teen years.

After Birth

Babies who live with dogs or cats in their first year may have a lower risk of developing allergies as they grow older. Swedish researchers found that the more pets babies grow up with, the less likely they are to have any type of allergy later on. However, it is important to note that there is a strong genetic link to allergies, so if you or your partner have allergies, the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) recommends that you do not get furry or feathered pets.

General Tips to Prevent Allergies

• Encourage hand-washing after petting the dog to minimize allergen exposure to the eyes or nose.
• Keep the dog out of your baby's bedroom.
• Use over-the-counter medications such as antihistamines and nasal corticosteroids to relieve allergy symptoms.
• Use a vacuum cleaner with a HEPA filter to trap animal dander and other allergens like dust mites.
• Wash your baby's hands, and ensure they bathe and wash their hair before going to bed to avoid tracking allergens into their bedroom.
• Bathe and groom your pet frequently. Weekly baths can help reduce dander levels in your pet's fur.
• Cover furniture with removable throws, and wash them often.
• Change your baby's clothes after any pet playdates, and put them in a separate hamper if you can't wash them right away.

Frequently asked questions