Sudden Itchy Welts All Over a French Bulldog

Sudden raised, itchy welts all over the body are hives (urticaria), an allergic reaction. Common triggers include insect bites and stings, vaccines, medicines, new foods or treats, and things she touched, like plants, shampoos or cleaning products. French Bulldogs are prone to allergies.

Get emergency care right away if her face, lips or eyes swell, or she has trouble breathing, vomiting, diarrhea, pale gums, weakness or collapse. These are signs of a severe reaction (anaphylaxis). Swelling around the face is especially risky in a flat-faced breed, because her airway is already narrow.

If she's breathing normally and only itchy, call your vet today. They can give medicine to calm the reaction and help find the cause. Don't give human allergy medicines without asking your vet, since some contain ingredients that are toxic to dogs. Think back to anything new in the last day or two.

See pimples, bumps and hives on dogs.

This is general information, not a diagnosis. Please follow your own vet's advice.