Frequently Asked Questions

General Info & Support

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For Pet Owners

How do I know if my dog has allergies?

This is a GREAT question. And, the answer might not be as easy as you would think. Making an accurate diagnosis of allergies is sometimes challenging. There are a variety of clinical signs and symptoms that veterinarians and dermatologists utilize to make this diagnosis for your dog. Some of the most common signs of allergies include:

Itching and scratching: Dogs with allergies often scratch their ears, face, and body. The scratching can lead to irritated skin and hotspots. Sometimes it is an "itch that rashes" and sometimes it is a "rash that itches". Patterns of itch are important to pay attention to!
Ear infections: Allergies are a frequent cause of recurrent ear infections in dogs. If your dog is shaking its head, scratching its ears, or you notice a foul odor or dark discharge, allergic triggers like food, pollen, or dust mites may be to blame.
Paw licking and chewing: Licking, biting, or chewing on the paws, especially at night, is a common sign of allergic discomfort and "itch". Often the paws are inflamed (red, erythematous skin). Many think that this is a sign of boredom, but it can actually be a top symptom of allergies.
Red, inflamed, or dry skin: Allergies often cause the skin to become inflamed, red, or scaly. You may notice dandruff or patches of hair loss. These changes can be acompanied by an odor that many describe as "yeasty". This is typically a manifestation of seborrhea, which is a common symptom of allergies in some breeds of dogs.
Chronic licking or scooting: Dogs with allergies may develop anal gland discomfort, which can manifest as scooting or licking.
Gastrointestinal issues: Sometimes, allergies can cause dogs to have stomach problems like vomiting, soft stool, diarrhea, or other changes in their pooping patterns. It is key to pay attention to this!
Frequent infections: The inflammation from allergies drives a dysbiosis (change in normal flora) of the skin. This leads to infections. Infections are secondary to an underlying problem. If your dog has been on numerous courses of antibiotics, it is important to find the root cause to prevent these infections - and allergy is a leading root cause of secondary infection (pyoderma).

Allergies in dogs can stem from various sources, including food, environmental factors (like pollen, dust, or mold), and flea bites. It’s important to remember that some of these symptoms can mimic other health conditions, so it’s not always clear-cut. And, it is also possible that a dog has allergic triggers to multiple sources.

What can you do? The best course of action is to consult with your veterinarian, who can perform tests to pinpoint the cause of the allergy and help create a tailored treatment plan for your dog. In many cases, identifying the root cause—whether it’s food, environmental triggers, or something else—can help provide long-term relief.

It is also possible to make an appointment with a Board Certified Veterinary Dermatologist® like me! You can find our directory here.

Understanding the complexity of allergies in dogs can be challenging, but with the right support and guidance, you can help your dog feel better and improve their quality of life. Always work with your veterinarian to determine the best course of action for your pet’s specific needs. And, I am glad that you found my resources to see if I can shed (no pun intended!!) light on your dog's problems!

Can I treat my dog's allergies without medication?

This is such an important question, and the answer really depends on where your dog falls on the allergy spectrum. Allergic diseases can range from mild to severe, and how you manage it will vary accordingly.

For dogs with milder symptoms, such as occasional itching or ear infections, supplements and regular baths can absolutely make a difference in preventing flare-ups. In fact, regular grooming, along with the right supplements, can help support the skin and immune system, reducing the chances of irritation and inflammation.

However, for more severe cases, these methods alone might not be enough. In these situations, a multimodal treatment plan—which combines supplements, baths, and medication—is ideal. Medications can help provide immediate relief and bring down inflammation when it’s too much for just baths and supplements to handle.

It’s important to remember: Medication is not a bad word. There’s a lot of fear around medication, but there are some dogs who truly need it to feel better. I don’t believe in just relying on “quick fixes” like a daily chew or “gut-healing” supplements that promise to cure all allergy problems. Sometimes, those solutions just aren’t enough, and dogs suffer needlessly because they aren't receiving the right care.

That’s why I focus on the science and real-world experience behind allergic dog care. My courses will help you navigate all of this—understanding when to layer in medication, when to stick with supplements, and how to combine everything for the best outcome.

I’ll also teach you how to work closely with your veterinarian to create the most targeted, safe, and effective plan for your dog. No two allergic dogs are the same, and they all deserve the best possible care that is tailored to them. After all, these dogs are our “special snowflakes”—and we owe it to them to get it right.

In my courses, we cover everything: from supplements to nutrition, immunotherapy, and of course, medication when necessary. So don’t worry, you’re not just learning about one approach. You’ll be armed with a well-rounded understanding of how to care for allergic dogs, no matter their condition.

There is so much information out there, how do I know who to trust?

This is a fantastic and important question. The internet is full of advice, recommendations, and products claiming to be the cure-all for your dog’s allergies, and it can be overwhelming to figure out who to trust. As a pet owner, it’s natural to want the best for your dog, but it’s equally important to differentiate between well-meaning advice and expert-backed, science-based guidance.

Here’s why you should trust me—and why you can trust The Allergic Dog™ as a resource for your allergic dog care journey:

I am Dr. Meagan Painter, a Board Certified Veterinary Dermatologist® with years of experience specializing in allergic skin and ear diseases in dogs. As a full-time dermatologist, I help countless pet owners, veterinarians, and groomers navigate the complexities of allergic dog care. My expertise comes from years of clinical experience, continuous learning, and working with the latest research in veterinary dermatology. I have dedicated my career to understanding the root causes of allergies in dogs—so I can offer you real, actionable advice that’s grounded in science and experience.

Here’s why my approach and advice stand out:

Specialized Knowledge & Expertise: I am a specialist in veterinary dermatology, which means I’m trained specifically to diagnose and treat conditions related to the skin and ears of animals. Allergic diseases are complex and multifactorial, and as a dermatologist, I have the expertise to break them down and guide you in understanding what’s really going on. While many people may give general advice, they just don't have the training that I do. I focus on providing clear, science-backed guidance that’s tailored to the unique needs of your dog.
Evidence-Based Approach: In my work, I take a scientific approach that’s informed by the latest veterinary research. I don’t believe in “quick fixes” or “one-size-fits-all” solutions. Allergies in dogs are complex and need to be managed with a multimodal strategy—that’s a mix of diet, environmental management, supplements, medications, immunotherapy, and more. Every dog is different, and I ensure that my discussions reflect that. My courses will teach you the options, backed by years of clinical experience, so that you can feel informed and empowered to help your dog live their best life.
Transparency and Objectivity: Unlike many resources that may be influenced by the marketing of specific products, I’m a free agent. The Allergic Dog™ is my company; I am a solopreneur! I’m here to give you the truth—free from product endorsements or financial incentives. I want you to make informed decisions based on your dog’s unique needs. My advice comes from a place of experience and compassion; I really just want to help people understand this issue so that more dogs with allergies can feel better.
Supportive, Real-World Guidance: I understand that navigating your dog’s allergies can be overwhelming and frustrating. I’m here to empower you with the knowledge and tools you need to feel confident in your decisions. Whether you’re figuring out the cause of your dog’s itching or dealing with recurring ear infections, I’m here to help guide you through it—every step of the way. I’ve created The Allergic Dog™ to ensure that pet owners like you have access to clear, practical, and actionable information that will help your dog live a healthier life.
Continued Education: As a specialist, I’m committed to continually updating my knowledge and sharing the latest insights with you. I don’t just give you advice—I teach you how to understand your dog’s allergies, so you can make informed decisions about their care. Yearly conferences, regular journal clubs, and speaking engagements are all part of my life as a veterinary specialist. I could not love this subject more, which is why I created this website. It is a reflection of me and my dedication to progress in the field of veterinary dermatology and allergy.

So, when it comes to managing your dog’s allergies, trust the resources that are rooted in expertise, evidence, and experience.

The Allergic Dog™ (ie - that's me!) is here to support you with everything you need to make educated, confident decisions about your dog’s allergy care. And I’ll be with you every step of the way, guiding you through this process - because you and your dog deserve this!

If you have any doubts or questions, reach out! I am an email away!

What if my veterinarian doesn’t help me with my dog’s allergies?

First of all, I want to acknowledge how frustrating it can feel when you’re trying to help your dog, and you’re not getting the support you feel you or your dog need. It’s exhausting and overwhelming to see your dog suffering, and it can feel even worse when it seems like the options being offered don’t address the issue that your dog is having fully.

As a Board Certified Veterinary Dermatologist®, I’ve heard this concern from many pet owners—and I want to assure you that your veterinarian is doing their absolute best and really does care about you and your dog.

***Do not blame your vet, shame your vet, get angry with your vet, or belittle your veterinarian or their staff. That is not acceptable; we are human beings doing our best. ***

But, do recognize, the reality is that some veterinarians may not specialize in allergic conditions or may not have the time or resources to delve into the complexities of allergy management. It is not easy to be a general practice veterinarian. They have to know a lot about everything, especially as care demands increase and time with patients decreases due to corporate demands. I could talk about this specific issue for much longer, because it truly is an issue for veterinary medicine in general - and, to be honest, human medicine too. We are not that different when it comes to being providers; we're just doing our best with what we know, and what we have the resources to provide for.

That’s where I come in.

If you feel like your veterinarian isn’t helping you manage your dog’s allergies:

Understand that not all vets are specialists:
While all veterinarians are trained to treat a wide range of conditions, veterinary dermatologists like me focus on skin, ear, and allergy-related issues. Allergic diseases can be complex and often require a specialized approach that may go beyond your general vet’s scope of expertise. It’s okay to seek out a second opinion from a dermatology specialist who has a deeper understanding of allergic conditions in dogs. You can also ask your veterinarian about referral options, if they haven't already suggested this!
Educate yourself about allergies:
Imagine summarizing all that there is to know about allergies in 15 minutes or less. Not possible. But, that is the bar your veterinarian has to jump over in this current climate of veterinary medicine. That’s why I created The Allergic Dog™—to provide pet owners like you with the knowledge and tools to better understand allergies and advocate for your dog’s care while working alongside your veterinarian. By learning more about allergies and the treatment options available, you’ll be able to ask the right questions, make more informed decisions, and ensure your dog is getting the best possible care.
Know when to escalate care:
If your dog’s symptoms are not improving despite treatment, or if you feel like the recommended treatments aren’t working, it could be time to escalate care or ensure that your veterinarian has the right diagnosis. Allergies are a chronic and relapsing condition. Flares are expected. But, knowing when to escalate care to manage inflammation well is key.
Collaborative approach:
I believe in collaborative care, where you, your veterinarian, your groomer, and any specialists you work with are all on the same page. If your vet doesn’t specialize in allergies, they are still an important part of the team by helping you with routine care and preventative measures, while a specialist can help you manage the allergic condition itself. My patients all have awesome primary care veterinarians; we work together.
Suggest a course: Don't be mean about it, just share the knowledge! If you learned something here that you think your veterinarian would benefit from, share it with them! Heck, you could even offer to pay for their course! Wouldn't that be a gift! Again, this is not about making anyone feel badly about their knowledge base! This is about empowering and enriching the entire health care team so that dogs can live happier, healthier lives. If you do want to gift this to your veterinarian, just email me :) [email protected].

Remember, you are your dog’s best advocate. By getting educated, asking the right questions, and seeking the best care, you can ensure your dog gets the attention and treatment they deserve.

My mission with The Allergic Dog™ is to empower pet owners, groomers, and veterinarians to be on the same page and help the dogs that we all love so much.

It takes a village, and that village is composed of a bunch of well-meaning human beings who all love dogs. Always, always be kind.

For Vets

Why should I invest time in your courses when I already have plenty of CE options?

I completely understand—veterinarians have an overwhelming number of CE opportunities. I personally find it challenging to know what to spend my time on when I am deciding on my own CE. So, I get it!

But here’s what sets The Allergic Dog™ apart:

Targeted, practical education: My courses are designed to help real-world veterinarians like you think about allergies in a more targeted way. I aim to ensure that every module is worth your time, not filled with anything generic. I provide information and insights that are immediately actionable. And, I can honestly say that I deliver on this objective based on the 5-star reviews my graduates provide.
Independence and expertise: I create these courses in my attic, in my spare time, based on years of clinical experience and scientific understanding. I do not pursue or receive industry funding so that I can keep my information unbiased and uniquely my own. I consider myself to be a thought-leader in veterinary dermatology; challenging assumptions and thinking of ways to solve problems in unique ways. I connect dots and bring that breath of dermatology fresh air to you by way of my lessons and courses!
Multimodal approach: I have revamped my entire veterinary platform to ensure that you have a complete overview for allergy management. Starting with symptoms (ears and rears!), moving to diagnostics (Itch to Answer™), and finishing up with treatments (Proven Protocols™ - I am ensuring that your knowledge base is exactly where it needs to be to meet the growing demands of allergy care in your practice.
You can be in your pajamas. Listen, I will be the first to admit that conferences drain me. Learn everything you need to know in back-to-back 50min lectures amidst a sea of 5,000 other people. Don't forget your swag! So, here, you can learn at your own pace in your cozy clothes.
Lifetime access. You can come back again and again to the material; you will have lifetime access, including valuable updates, to all of my courses.
They are fun. Honestly, countless veterinarians have commented on how entertaining and engaging these courses are. I try to keep it moving, and keep it fun!
I care about you. I made this because I literally just want to help veterinarians feel better about these cases and the work that they do. I feel so badly when you get pummeled by an ear case that a little titch of knowledge shift could have helped you avoid. So, that's what I am here for. This is my way of giving back to veterinary medicine, and I am here because I want to be a positive influence in our industry. Period.

Are your courses RACE-approved?

I already feel pretty good about my allergic cases. Is this still for me?

Do you offer any discounts for clinics or groups?

For Groomers

Do I need to be a vet to understand these courses?

Are the courses really worth my time if I’m already experienced with grooming?

How is this different from my grooming expo or other educational programs?

Can I really make a difference in treating allergic dogs? What if the vet or pet owner doesn't listen to me?

Great question! Yes, you absolutely can make a difference in treating allergic dogs! In fact, you’re on the front lines every day, and your role as a groomer is critical. You're often the first to notice signs of allergies—itchy ears, paw changes, and smelly, inflamed skin. Sometimes, you see these dogs more than the veterinarian does! You get that the key is recognizing these early signs and being proactive about communicating them to the pet owners and their veterinarians. But...it can be frustrating when it feels like your observations aren’t being heard or fully understood by the vet or pet owner....especially when you're seeing the same dogs with recurring issues.

But here’s the truth: you care, and your observations matter. When you notice things that others might overlook, you're helping the dog and their owners get closer to a proper diagnosis and treatment plan.

If the vet doesn’t listen, what can you do?

Be proactive in communicating: Share your observations with the veterinarian clearly and professionally. If you see patterns like recurring ear infections or constant infection - and take the time to let them know. REMEMBER THIS - we are all human beings here. Doing our best. It is not about blaming, shaming, or criticizing others. I created this platform because we all have the same goal. We all want happier, healthier dogs. So, let's talk! We can do this in a way that helps dogs, without hurting feelings. And, I am here to help us do that.
Don’t be afraid to share your knowledge: You are a professional, and belong in this conversation. Veterinarians are busy, just like you are. So, just remember we are all doing our best - with limited resources - and care very deeply about our patients and their families. If you are concerned, make it known, within the boundaries of your knowledge base. And, don't be afraid to share what you have learned with The Allergic Dog™. Having the information that I am providing will make a world of difference to elevate the conversation between you and a veterinarian about allergic issues; you now have the soundbites and the background!
Ask for collaboration: You’re part of the team, and collaboration with veterinarians is key. By sharing your insights, you help both the vet and pet owner understand what’s going on. Perhaps, together, you come up with a great bathing routine for a patient that prevents a flare! We are all on the same team. And, maybe it doesn't feel that way right now, but it is true!

If the pet owner doesn’t listen, what can you do?

Educate them gently: Owners might not fully understand the link between skin issues and allergies. They might not want to understand it, either. By educating them on what you’re seeing in a calm, informative way, you can help them understand why it could be useful to step up their care plan for their dog. How you say it is sometimes just as important as what you say. So, take the time to be professional, clear, and caring in your delivery. And, don't worry, I help you with this in my courses! It doesn't always come easy (especially when/if you like dogs more than people 😉 I got you!).
Suggest the next step: You don’t have to have all the answers, but you can recommend next steps, like consulting with the vet about a different approach or asking for a second opinion to a boarded dermatologist.
Suggest a course. Yes, this is a plug. But, yes, this is why I created this entire platform. Get everyone on the same page and comunication become easier and more productive! And...then dogs are happier and healthier. Goal achieved!

My goal with The Professional Groomer’s Guide to Allergic Dog Care™ is to give you the tools you need to confidently address any of these situations, so you can make a lasting difference in the lives of allergic dogs and help become part of the conversation like the professional that you are. So yes, you can absolutely make a difference—and you are a key part of the solution! I see you as part of the team - and will help you get the knowledge you need to be team MVP! 🐶