Hives, or urticaria, is an allergy that occurs in dogs as well as humans and can be a result of contact with certain types of foods, insect stings or contact with certain plans. Although usually not serious or long lasting, the reaction can produce severe itchiness and many dogs will scratch the affected area raw during an outbreak of hives.

Hives aren’t very common in animals, but those that are affected will have them constantly and determining the cause may be a challenge. In addition to the hives, the dog may also develop an allergy to something that it has previously not had a reaction to. In conjunction with the hives, many dogs also develop swelling of the face, a condition known as angiodema.

Because the hives are hidden under the dog’s fur, it can be easy to miss. Detecting hives can be done by running your hand through the dog’s coat to determine if there are welts that can be felt on the skin. If the dog has welts in combination with excessive scratching, difficulty breathing, areas of fur that are raised, bald patches or a rash, severe dry skin or greasy odorous fur or lesions that will not heal, it should be taken to the vet for assessment.

Hives are usually treated with antihistamines, but severe cases might require a course of steroids or epinephrine if the dog is having difficulty breathing. If the dog has a severe reaction, it is critical to identify the allergen and keep the dog away from it.