Signs Your Dog May Have Spring Allergies
Not sure if your dog is dealing with allergies or something else? Here are some common symptoms to watch for:
🐾 Excessive Scratching & Licking – If your dog can’t stop itching, especially around the paws, ears, belly, or armpits, allergies may be the culprit.
🐾 Red, Inflamed, or Irritated Skin – Allergies often cause skin irritation, which can lead to hot spots, rashes, or even hair loss.
🐾 Watery, Itchy, or Red Eyes – Just like people, dogs with allergies may develop runny, irritated eyes in the spring.
🐾 Frequent Ear Infections – Dogs prone to allergies often develop recurring ear infections, leading to head shaking and excessive ear scratching.
🐾 Sneezing & Runny Nose – If your dog sneezes more than usual or has a runny nose, pollen might be the trigger.
🐾 Reverse Sneezing – This odd snorting sound happens when a dog inhales allergens, causing irritation in their nasal passages. It’s harmless but can be alarming if you’re not familiar with it!
🐾 Digestive Issues – Some dogs experience allergies through stomach upset, leading to loose stools, vomiting, or excessive gas.
How to Help Your Dog Cope with Spring Allergies
If your dog is showing signs of allergies, don’t worry—there are plenty of ways to help them feel more comfortable!
1. Wipe Down After Walks
Pollen and other allergens stick to your dog’s fur and paws after they’ve been outside. Use a damp cloth or pet-friendly wipes to gently clean their paws and coat after walks to reduce allergen buildup.
2. Regular Baths
Frequent baths with a hypoallergenic, oatmeal-based, or medicated shampoo can soothe itchy skin and wash away allergens. Just be sure not to over-bathe, as that can dry out their skin.
3. Keep Your Home Allergen-Free
- Vacuum regularly to remove pollen, dust, and pet dander.
- Wash your dog’s bedding frequently.
- Use an air purifier to help filter allergens out of the air.
4. Consider an Allergy-Friendly Diet
Sometimes, food allergies can worsen seasonal allergy symptoms. Switching to a limited-ingredient or hypoallergenic diet may help. Talk to your vet about potential food sensitivities.
5. Provide Omega-3 Fatty Acids
Fish oil or other omega-3 supplements can help strengthen your dog’s skin barrier, reducing inflammation and itchiness caused by allergies.
6. Try Antihistamines (With Vet Approval!)
Some over-the-counter antihistamines like Benadryl or Zyrtec can help, but always check with your vet for the correct dosage before giving your dog any medication.
7. Visit Your Vet for Severe Cases
If your dog’s allergies are severe—causing open sores, intense scratching, or constant discomfort—your vet may recommend prescription allergy medications, steroids, or allergy shots.
