Expert: Angela Donald - 11/5/2010

Question
Hi Angela my family and I have an 12 month old male Boxer when ever he licks us we all break out into itchy red spots this has never happened with any other dogs before can you please tell me why and what we can do about it

Answer
Hi Kelly,

It is my understanding that your allergic reaction is quite common in the dog owners world. I want go into the scientific explanation here but a simple answer, you and your family are allergic to a protein found in dog's saliva,glands and urine, I am surprised you don't also break out when petting the dog as the dog consistently cleans itself by licking or by coming into contact with areas of the house where dander( microscopic dead skin cells) are present.Certain dog breeds shed their skin every three to fours days and this contributes to the dog's necessity to lick and clean themselves. I believe boxers fall into this category, other breeds can shed about every 21 days and some breeds don't shed.The other dogs you may have had may be in one of these categories or the protein may not have been present to the extent the boxer has. Boxers are very clean dogs which leads to a consistent and constant cleaning regime by the boxer and this protein is ever present in and on your boxer so this is why you all are having these reactions. You can reduce or eliminate the symptoms by eliminating(teach the dog not to lick) or neutralizing this protein in the dogs saliva with a product called Allerpet Solution, which can be found here http://www.allergyescape.com/allergy-cure.html If you want to try and teach the dog not to lick you then try to communicate in canine language to him, whenever you think the dog is about to lick you (observe him to know the signs) correct him with a firm "NO" then lick your own lips and turn your head to the side until he backs away. Try it, it works ! Tell all family members to do the same. After several weeks of this training he will get the message to stop the licking behavior.Thank you for your question and I hope this solves your problem.

Angela Donald
Canine Behavior Consultant
Hi-Tower Boxers
http://www.hitowerboxers.com