Flea Allergy Dermatitis

Posted by Clare Bristow

dog-with-fleas Flea allergy dermatitis is the name given to a dog's allergic reaction to flea saliva.

Flea saliva contains over 15 different bacteria and viruses (called antigens), each of which is capable of causing an allergic reaction in your dog.

When a flea bites your dog's skin to feed, the antigens in it's saliva will be repelled by your dog's antibodies. However, in sensitive dogs the antibodies aren't successful, and a reaction to the antigens can show up as an incredibly itchy patch of skin for your dog.