Just like people, dogs can suffer from allergies. In dogs, allergies are usually that cause itching, discomfort, and other frustrating symptoms. Whether it’s seasonal pollen, food sensitivities, or environmental triggers, understanding your dog’s allergies can help you keep them comfortable and healthy.
Common Signs of Allergies in Dogs
Dogs don’t usually show allergies with sneezing like humans do. Instead, they may experience:
- Itchy skin (scratching, licking, chewing, or rubbing their face and paws)
- Red, inflamed skin or hot spots
- Chronic ear and skin infections
- Digestive issues (vomiting, diarrhea, or gas—common with food allergies)
Types of Allergies in Dogs
- Environmental Allergies (Atopy) – Caused by pollen, mold, dust mites, or grasses. Symptoms can be seasonal in certain pets or year round in others.
- Food Allergies – Typically to the protein in the diet. Common allergens: chicken, beef or dairy. Food allergies can also cause digestive upset in some patients, but others may only show skin/ear issues.
- Flea Allergies – Some dogs have an allergic reaction to flea saliva, leading to severe itching and hair loss, especially near the base of the tail. Even a single flea bite can cause a reaction in sensitive dogs!
How to Help Your Allergic Dog
- Identify the Allergen – We may recommend allergy testing, an elimination diet (for food allergies), or tracking seasonal patterns to pinpoint the trigger.
- Frequent Bathing & Wipes – Medicated shampoos can soothe itchy skin, while wiping paws after walks can reduce environmental allergens.
- Switching Diets – If a food allergy is suspected, we will discuss an elimination diet trial, which will need to be very strict. We will discuss novel proteins vs. hydrolyzed protein options depending on your pets dietary history.
- Medications & Supplements – Antihistamines, prescription allergy medication to help control itching, omega-3 supplements, and even immunotherapy (allergy shots) are used to treat allergic dogs. The treatment plan will depend on your pet’s individual case.
- Flea Prevention – Year-round flea control is essential for all pets, especially those with flea allergies, as even one bite can trigger a flare up.
When to See a Vet
If your dog’s itching is persistent, they’re losing fur, or they develop frequent ear infections or skin infections, make an appointment today so we can get them comfortable,as uncontrolled allergies can lead to secondary infections and a lot of discomfort.
Allergies can be frustrating and we are with our pet parents every step of the way to manage their pets allergies and alter their treatment plan.