Medically Reviewed
By Dr. Jennifer Thompson, DVM, Board-Certified Veterinary Dermatologist
Allergy Testing in Dogs: Understanding Your Options
Allergy testing identifies specific environmental allergens affecting dogs with atopic dermatitis. Learn about testing methods and what results mean for treatment.
Veterinary Medical Disclaimer
This information is provided for educational purposes and is not intended to replace professional veterinary advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your veterinarian with any questions you may have regarding your pet's medical condition. Never disregard professional veterinary advice or delay in seeking it because of something you have read on this website.
Purpose of Allergy Testing
Allergy testing identifies specific environmental allergens (pollens, molds, dust mites) causing atopic dermatitis. Testing is NOT used to diagnose allergies but rather to identify specific triggers after diagnosis is confirmed.
When Testing is Appropriate
- Atopic dermatitis has been diagnosed
- Flea and food allergies have been ruled out
- You want to pursue allergen-specific immunotherapy
- You want to identify triggers for avoidance strategies
Testing Methods
Intradermal Skin Testing (Gold Standard)
- Small amounts of allergens injected under skin
- Reactions measured after 15-20 minutes
- Requires sedation
- Performed by veterinary dermatologist
- Most accurate method available
Blood Allergy Testing
- Blood sample sent to laboratory
- Measures allergen-specific antibodies
- No sedation required
- Can be performed by any veterinarian
- Less invasive but potentially less accurate
What Gets Tested
Standard panels include:
- Tree pollens
- Grass pollens
- Weed pollens
- Mold spores
- House dust mites
- Storage mites
- Insects
- Animal danders
Important Limitations
- Testing should only be done AFTER confirming atopic dermatitis diagnosis
- Results don't diagnose allergies - they identify specific triggers
- Some medications must be discontinued before testing
- Results guide immunotherapy formulation
- Testing doesn't diagnose food allergies (requires diet trial)
Using Test Results
Results help with:
- Immunotherapy: Creating custom allergy vaccines
- Avoidance: Reducing exposure to identified allergens when possible
- Seasonal planning: Anticipating flare times
Cost Considerations
Allergy testing represents an investment in long-term management. Discuss costs with your veterinarian, including testing fees and ongoing immunotherapy expenses if pursued.
Key Points
- Testing identifies specific allergens, doesn't diagnose allergies
- Only appropriate after confirming atopic dermatitis
- Results guide immunotherapy and avoidance strategies
- Intradermal testing is most accurate method
- Referral to veterinary dermatologist often recommended