We all want to protect our four-pawed fur babies, but when allergy season comes along, it can be hard to know what to do for a canine in distress.
Going to the vet for tailored advice and medication is important if your dog’s allergies are severe or persistent. If you’re not at that stage yet with your canine friend, equipping yourself with knowledge can be one of the best measures in preventing and treating allergies in dogs.
Seasonal allergies in dogs can be caused by a range of flora that produce pollen at this time of year. Grass is everywhere so if your dog has a grass pollen allergy, you are soon going to know about it!
Emma discusses how pollen from grass and other plants can affect your dog and what to do about it.
“The seasonal allergens dogs commonly suffer from include pollen from flowers or trees, grasses, weeds and insect bites/stings. These can vary by region depending on the flora and fauna in the area, and by the area’s typical weather. For example, warmer and windier locations can cause allergens like pollen to be spread more easily, resulting in flare-ups being more likely. Similarly, walks in areas with a lot of wildflowers are likely to impact flare-ups compared to walks in built-up areas.
“If going on walks in areas where your dog’s allergens are, look up the pollen forecast to see the pollen levels for the day. Pollen levels are typically lower in late afternoon and early evening, which therefore might be a preferable time to do dog walks. Try to limit the time you’re in areas with high pollen count. For example, sticking to more built-up areas if flower pollen and grass causes a reaction in your dog.”
As grass pollen is a common trigger for hay fever, we asked Dr Emma if dogs can get suffer in the same ways humans can. Here’s what she had to say:
“Some dogs can be sensitive to pollen and suffer from hay fever. Dogs will appear to rub their ears, eyes and face, shake their head, and get puffy red skin around their eyes and between their paws. They might also seem to be a bit sleepier and lethargic.
"Dogs don’t have dedicated hay fever tablets like people do, unfortunately. Therefore, it’s best to avoid walking in areas with a lot of pollen around, or limiting the time you walk there to help avoid the triggers for your dog. For medication, it’s best to speak to your veterinarian to get anti-inflammatory treatment prescribed.”
Skin allergies in dogs
Skin allergies are the most common type of allergic reaction in dogs and are mainly caused by three things: fleas, food allergies or their environment.
Can dogs get eczema?
In humans, eczema is a common condition that causes the skin to become itchy, dry and cracked, similar to dogs with skin allergies. So, we asked Dr Emma: Do dogs get eczema?
“Dogs can develop atopic dermatitis or hot spots, which is similar to eczema in people. It can look similar to seasonal allergies and hay fever, because it can cause excessive scratching and/or licking, red and inflamed skin, and hair loss. However, unlike seasonal allergies and hay fever, atopic dermatitis is skin irritation which can occur any time of the year and is typically a chronic, long-term condition.
“Furthermore, atopic dermatitis can be caused by other factors, such as food, bacteria, fleas or environmental allergens, whereas seasonal allergies and hay fever are only caused by environmental allergens. Atopic dermatitis is best treated in consultation with your veterinarian, who can offer a multimodal treatment plan, such as topical steroids, immunotherapy and medicated shampoos.”
Flea allergy in dogs
Flea allergy dermatitis is a common cause of itching in dogs, and it only takes a couple of bites to result in an allergic reaction that can last up to two weeks.
If you think your dog is having an allergic reaction to flea bites, then unfortunately it’s a trip to the vet! A vet can usually prescribe something to calm the itching while your dog recovers.
As soon as possible, clean out your canine pal’s bed, blankets and anywhere else that might be a good hiding spot for fleas.
Food allergies in dogs
Just like humans, our four-pawed pals can be allergic to a range of ingredients in their food. Wheat dairy and chicken can all cause allergic reactions in dogs – in fact, it may seem strange but beef is the most common food allergy for dogs.
Signs your dog has a food allergy include itching and digestive issues, although things as subtle as a change in mood, energy, weight loss or aggressive behaviour might also be symptomatic of a food allergy.
You know your canine friend best and if their wellbeing has gone downhill after trying a new food or being put on a new diet, a food allergy may be the cause.
Environmental allergens
We’ve talked a bit about grass and seasonal allergies, but what about other environmental allergens?
Moulds, mildew, dust mites (different from fleas), grooming products, and fabric conditioners are all environmental allergens that can be found within the home and aren’t affected by the season.
If there’s something in your dog’s environment that’s causing an allergic reaction, the first thing you can do is clean your dog’s space, washing dog beds and blankets to remove any mould or dust mites hiding in there. Then it’s a matter of working through everything your four-pawed pal comes into contact with, and swapping out products that you think might be affecting your canine.
Vets can perform allergy tests to determine which allergens might be causing your dog’s atopy, so if your canine pal’s reaction is severe or persistent, and you don’t know what’s causing it, get them down the vet to solve the mystery!
How do allergies affect behaviour and quality of life?
If your dog has seasonal allergies, it can have a big impact on their day-to-day wellbeing and you’re sure to notice that they are out of sorts. Dr Emma explains the effects allergies can have on your pup pal:
“Allergies can be very irritating for your dog, just as they are for people. It can impact their behaviour by making them more restless from excessively scratching, potentially short-tempered and irritable, and might start to disturb their sleep. Therefore, prolonged and excessive scratching, and inflammation can have a negative impact on a dog’s mood and overall quality of life. They might seem more distracted and less enthusiastic about their food, playing or going out on walks.
“If left untreated, long-term allergies can lead to chronic skin infections, hair loss, scarring, and potentially secondary complications from compromised immune function.”
Which breeds are more prone to allergies?
Different dog breeds share different traits. Your pup’s size, features, temperament and potential medical conditions can all be impacted by their breed, and yes, some dog breeds are more sensitive to allergies than others. Dr Emma explains:
“Any dog breed can be impacted by seasonal allergies. However, there are some breeds more predisposed to developing seasonal allergies than others. These include golden retrievers, boxers, cocker spaniels, West Highland white terriers and Dalmatians.
“Regularly vacuuming, keeping windows closed, using an air filter, and dusting regularly will help to minimise the impact of seasonal allergies in the home during peak season. Additionally, bathing your dog regularly and avoiding high pollen areas on walks can be very beneficial.”
Signs your dog has seasonal allergies
If you’re worried about your beloved canine and believe they might have seasonal allergies, Dr Emma says there’s a whole list of dog allergy symptoms you can look out for:
“Common signs your dog is suffering from seasonal allergies includes excessive scratching and/or licking, particularly around their ears and paws, sneezing, puffy and watery eyes, red and inflamed skin, hives, hot spots, head shaking and/or rubbing their face, and even hair loss and breathing issues.
“Although it might be difficult at first to differentiate between seasonal allergies and other health issues, there are certain factors which can help distinguish them from other allergies and skin conditions.
“For example, seasonal patterns for when the allergies are worse at particular times of year; or flare-ups occurring after long walks in the countryside; as well as being accompanied by additional symptoms, such as sneezing and watery eyes. It is always worth checking with your veterinarian if you’re unsure or if symptoms persist.”
Treatments for seasonal allergies
If you’re wondering how to manage your dog’s allergy when spring comes around, Dr Emma offers several preventative measures you can do to protect your precious pup:
“There are a number of ways to help manage your dog’s seasonal allergies during a flare-up, including wiping their paws after walks, avoiding high pollen areas, giving your dog regular baths, as well as consulting with your veterinarian on medication to ease your dog’s irritation.
“You could also consider incorporating anti-inflammatory treats and/or supplements, such as omega-3 fatty acids, into your dog’s daily routine when you know peak season is approaching. These take time to build up in their systems, so will need to be taken in advance to help reduce the intensity of flare-ups and reduce itching.”
Tips for protecting your pup
- Limit outdoor activities – place limits on time and location
- Check pollen levels
- Regular grooming
- Bathe your dog regularly
- Wipe paws
- Wash dog beds regularly
- Clean the home regularly
Dog-friendly cottages
Just because your canine pal has seasonal allergies doesn’t mean they should miss out on amazing holidays with you.
Browse through our wide collection of pet-friendly cottages and you’re sure to find cottages where you can both unwind.
We have large properties with plenty of indoor space to relax, charming big gardens with patios, porches where your dog can be pampered and paws wiped down, and outdoor hoses for giving your dog a real clean after running around outside.