Quick Facts
- Sample: Blood serum (standard venipuncture)
- Fasting: Not required
- Turnaround time: 2-5 business days. May take longer based on weather, holiday or lab delays.
Benefits
- Identify dog allergies without invasive skin testing or doctor referral
- Get results reviewed by licensed physicians with expert interpretation
- Automatic reflex testing optimizes diagnosis when IgE levels are elevated
- Guide treatment and allergen-avoidance strategies based on your results
- Discover sensitization even without obvious symptoms, enabling proactive management
Who Is This Test For?
- People experiencing sneezing, itching, congestion, or wheezing around dogs
- Those with asthma-like symptoms worsened by dog exposure or dog environments
- Individuals suspecting a dog allergy who want preventive health insights
- Patients monitoring known allergies to assess changes in sensitization over time
- Anyone considering pet ownership and wanting baseline allergy screening
How It Works – Just 3 Steps
- Order online or visit a walk-in lab - no doctor's referral needed; results remain confidential.
- Quick blood draw - trained staff collect a serum sample using standard venipuncture.
- Get your results - receive IgE measurements and reflex testing for specific dog allergen components (Can f 1–6) within 2-5 business days.
FAQ
What does this test measure? The test detects Immunoglobulin E (IgE) antibodies specific to dog dander, indicating your immune system's sensitization response. High levels suggest an allergy; reflex testing identifies which dog allergen proteins trigger your reaction.
Can you have a dog allergy without symptoms? Yes—sensitization (detectable IgE) can occur without clinical allergy. Results must be interpreted alongside your actual symptoms for accurate diagnosis.
How do I interpret my results? IgE levels below 0.10 kU/L indicate no sensitization. Levels at or above 0.10 kU/L suggest sensitization; your provider can discuss reflex component testing to pinpoint dominant allergens and guide your management plan.
What if my results are negative? A negative result suggests dog dander is unlikely to be your allergen source, though symptoms may stem from other causes like cat dander or environmental factors. Consider related allergen testing if symptoms persist.
Are there any preparations before the test? No fasting is required. Inform the lab about current medications, as some may affect results. Standard blood draw procedures apply.
Is there a more specific follow-up test? Yes—if your total dog dander IgE is elevated, reflex testing automatically analyzes individual dog allergen components (Can f 1 through Can f 6) to identify which proteins affect you most.
More Details
What is the purpose of this test?
This Dog Dander Allergy IgE Blood Test measures IgE antibody levels in your blood to detect dog allergy sensitization. About 5–10% of Americans have a dog allergy, with sensitization occurring in roughly 10% of the population (American Academy of Allergy, Asthma & Immunology, 2023). Dog allergens spread easily through shedding hair, dander, and airborne particles that settle on clothing, bedding, furniture, and carpets. Even 90% of American households without pets contain detectable animal allergens. By identifying your IgE response, this test helps you and your healthcare provider develop targeted management strategies, potentially reducing respiratory complications and improving quality of life.
Who would benefit from this test?
You'd benefit from this test if you experience symptoms triggered by dog exposure—including sneezing, itching, congestion, wheezing, or skin inflammation—and suspect a dog allergy. It's also valuable for health-conscious individuals seeking preventive insights, people with asthma exacerbated by dogs, those monitoring known allergies over time, or anyone considering pet ownership. The direct-access format makes it ideal for individuals wanting answers without traditional healthcare barriers.
When should I order this test?
Order this test when you're experiencing symptoms related to dog exposure, such as nasal congestion, sneezing, itching, hives, wheezing, or trouble breathing. It's also appropriate for asthma patients unsure whether dogs are a trigger, individuals with unexplained respiratory symptoms in dog-heavy environments, or anyone seeking baseline allergy screening before adopting a pet. If symptoms worsen or change after treatment, repeat testing can track your sensitization level.
How do I interpret the results?
IgE Level: < 0.10 kU/L
- What it means: No sensitization detected
- Typical action: Low likelihood of dog allergy; consider other allergen sources if symptoms persist
IgE Level: ≥ 0.10 kU/L
- What it means: Sensitization present
- Typical action: Reflex testing analyzes specific allergen components; consult your provider about management options
Reflex Results: Can f 1–6
- What it means: Identifies dominant dog allergen proteins
- Typical action: Guides targeted avoidance strategies and informs immunotherapy eligibility
Early identification of sensitization patterns helps you make informed lifestyle and treatment decisions before symptoms escalate.
Disclaimer: Reference ranges may vary by laboratory. Listed ranges are general guidelines and may differ from those used by the performing lab. Always consult your healthcare provider for interpretation.
Pre-test preparation
No fasting is required before this test. Wear comfortable clothing that allows easy access to your arm for blood draw. Inform the lab about any current medications, supplements, or recent illnesses, as certain drugs may influence IgE levels. Stay hydrated and eat normally the day of your appointment. If you're experiencing acute illness, consider postponing the test for more accurate results.
How often should I get tested?
Initial screening after symptom onset
- Suggested interval: Once, then repeat if results are borderline
Monitoring known dog allergy
- Suggested interval: Every 1–2 years to track sensitization changes
Post-immunotherapy follow-up
- Suggested interval: 6–12 months after starting treatment to assess response
Persistent or changing symptoms
- Suggested interval: As recommended by your healthcare provider
Why early detection matters
Early detection of dog allergy sensitization enables you to implement avoidance strategies, pursue targeted treatments, and prevent complications before they worsen. Untreated dog allergies can escalate into chronic asthma, sleep disruption, and reduced quality of life—with associated healthcare costs. IgE serum testing offers approximately 75% sensitivity compared to symptomatic individuals (Johns Hopkins Medicine, 2024), making it a reliable first step. Timely diagnosis also helps you explore immunotherapy options or make informed decisions about pet ownership and living situations.
Related tests you may consider
Cat Hair and Dander Allergy IgE Blood Test - Measures the IgE antibody levels in the blood to detect a cat allergy.
Immunoglobulin E Blood Test, Total, IgE - Measures the total IgE antibody levels in the blood to assess the likelihood of experiencing allergic reactions.
IgE Inhalant Allergy Test, Serum - Mosaic Diagnostics Test Kit - Checks for allergic reactions to common airborne substances like pollen, mold, pet dander, and dust mites by measuring IgE antibodies in the blood, helping people understand and manage their allergy symptoms.
