Just like their pawrents, our dogs can suffer from the irritating effects of seasonal allergies. So, as the weather heats up and pollen levels rise, in the UK searches for ‘signs of allergies’ have risen by +5000% in the past 30 days.
With this in mind, Dr. Emma Scales-Theobald Vet, Canine Behaviourist, and partner of Canine Cottages, has warned pet owners to look out for signs including “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.”
Emma has also shared 4 common seasonal allergies to be aware of including the key signs to look out for, and how to treat allergies in dogs.
Grass allergies
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.
Flea allergies
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 such as dairy and chicken
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 allergies
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!
What are the signs of allergies in dogs?
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.
How to treat allergies in dogs
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.
Commenting on the safety advice, and on teaming up with Dr. Emma Sarah Pring, Digital PR Manager of Canine Cottages said, “With many pawrents heading on UK staycations to countryside and seaside areas where there are increased risks of allergies. We wanted to provide information for dog owners on key allergies, whether they’re away or on staycation, so that they can keep their pooch happy and healthy.”
To find out some more information on seasonal allergies in dogs, including how to treat allergies, please visit: https://www.caninecottages.co.uk/guides/seasonal-allergies-dogs
