Human dander allergy is actually more common than many people think because most people (and even some veterinarians) just think it is chronic dermatitis. Similar to people, dogs can be allergic to many things such as foods (beef, chicken, grains, corn), dust mites, fleas, grass, and pollen to name a few. In addition, since skin is the largest organ in the body, it is the first to show signs that something is wrong with your dog. With any allergy, one of the first signs you will notice is scratching anywhere on the body, and it will usually be accompanied by sneezing, coughing, and even wheezing. Fortunately, it is rare for human dander allergies to result in anaphylaxis, so it is only dangerous if the itching causes a secondary infection from scratching.

Although it is common for people to be allergic to dogs, many people do not realize that your pet can be allergic to you too. As a matter of fact, an allergy to human dander means that your dog is allergic to anyone who sheds dander, which is everyone. The dander from human skin is similar to the dander on the dog’s skin that causes the allergic reaction in you if you are allergic to them. Human dander is the small flaky pieces of skin, hair, and other materials that we all shed 24 hours a day. These flakes float through the air and are also on every piece of furniture and clothing in your home no matter how well you vacuum and clean. Because the usual symptoms of allergy to human dander are hives, itchy skin, rash, and inflammation, it is usually mistaken for chronic dermatitis.