Allergic dermatitis is a skin condition in dogs if left untreated can turn into a devastating illness for your pet. The most common allergy is from fleas. One fleabite on a dog with an allergic condition can cause the animal to scratch and chew continuously, causing hair loss around the tail area, hind end and feet. The excessive chewing can lead to both bacterial and yeast infections on the animal. The best way to keep this from happening is to keep your pet flea free. Not only does the pet require flea medications, but areas that the pet frequents need to be pest free, including your lawn, home and any designer dog beds. There are many effective products for flea protection. Although many of the products are expensive, it is much better than the alternative. Dogs with severe allergic dermatitis will require a veterinarian visit, as well as medications like antibiotics for the bacterial infection, possible oral anti-fungal medication, as well as steroids to keep them from chewing and mutilating themselves. If your pet has any signs of allergic dermatitis, please begin checking for fleas immediately and begin the appropriate regimen to keep him happy and healthy.