Signs Your Dog is Suffering from Seasonal Allergies and How to Provide Relief

Spring allergies in dogs are common in some dog breeds than others. While

With the arrival of spring, many of us look forward to enjoying the great outdoors. However, for some of our furry friends, this season brings along the discomfort of seasonal allergies. Just like humans, dogs can experience allergic reactions to various environmental factors such as bee pollen, ragweed, and even mold.

Pet owners need to be vigilant and recognise the signs of seasonal allergies in their dogs, as well as take appropriate measures to provide relief.

Spring allergies in dogs; Understanding the symptoms.

Dogs, just like humans, can exhibit a range of symptoms when they are suffering from seasonal allergies. However, unlike humans who primarily experience symptoms through their respiratory system, dogs tend to show signs of allergies through their skin.

Common spring allergies in dogs

• Ear Infections
• Red Sores
• Sneezing
• Hives
• Coughing
• Itchy Skin
• Itchy eyes and paws
• Hair loss
• Dog Allergies

Ear Infection in Spring: Navigating Moisture and Allergens

As it gets warmer in spring, humidity also rises which means increased moisture levels in the air; and an abundance of allergens. A moist environment becomes a breeding ground for allergens like bee pollen and parasites such as ticks, yeast, and bacteria.

Parasites like yeast and bacteria thrive in a dark, moist environment, like your dog’s ears. Dog breeds with floppy ears, like spaniels, are more susceptible to dog ear infections. As these pathogens multiply in your dog’s ear canal, they cause dog ear infections.

As a pet owner, it is important to protect your dog’s ears from seasonal allergies. Keep a watchful eye for some of the common signs of dog ear infections like;

• scratching the affected ear or face,
• Rubbing the ears, shaking or tilting the head
• Redness or swelling in the ear canal or outer ear,
• Crusts or scabs on ears
• Excess earwax
• Pus or dark brown slimy discharge with an unpleasant odor

Ear infections in dogs may also be accompanied by pain and persistent irritation that compels your dog to scratch all the time. Untreated infection can cause other complications like deafness in dogs.

When you see the early signs of ear infection, seek timely veterinary assistance and implement preventative measures to ensure your dog’s ear health as you enjoy the outdoors during Spring.

Red sores; Identifying Allergic Dermatitis in Dogs

During the spring season, dogs often struggle with a condition called allergic dermatitis, which is characterized by distinct red sores on their skin. This issue arises due to increased levels of allergens and can appear in different areas, causing dogs to continuously itch and scratch.

To deal with this problem, responsible pet owners are advised to regularly examine their dog’s skin thoroughly. Early detection of red and inflamed areas is crucial for implementing effective management techniques. Seeking guidance from a veterinarian is essential as they can offer personalized insights and treatment options, helping navigate the complexities of allergic dermatitis.

Pet owners can also utilize online resources to gather information and explore preventative measures like hypoallergenic diets or topical treatments. These methods can help alleviate symptoms and improve the overall comfort of their dogs. By staying informed and collaborating with veterinary professionals, owners can empower themselves to effectively manage allergic dermatitis, ensuring their beloved pets thrive despite the challenges posed by spring allergies.

Sneezing; common respiratory allergy in dogs

Sneezing in dogs is a clear sign that your pooch is dealing with environmental triggers in Spring, especially bee pollen and other forms of pollen. This common respiratory reaction is closely linked to another symptom of allergic reactions—hives. Hives are characterized by raised, red welts on the skin, which adds a layer of complexity to understanding the various aspects of spring allergies in dogs.

Exploring online resources further sheds light on the relationship between sneezing and hives, providing pet owners with valuable insights into the intricate dynamics of canine respiratory and skin allergies. Recognizing this connection becomes crucial for proactive pet care, enabling owners to take prompt and well-informed steps to alleviate their dog’s discomfort.

Online platforms offer a wealth of information on potential allergens, preventive measures, and treatment options, empowering pet owners to effectively navigate the intricacies of spring allergies and enhance their dog’s overall well-being.

Hives in dogs during spring

Hives, or urticaria, in dogs, are typically caused by an allergic reaction. Just like in humans, hives in dogs result from the release of histamines in response to an allergen. Common causes of hives in dogs include:
Insect Bites or Stings: Allergic reactions in dogs can be triggered by bee stings, ant bites, or bites from other insects, which can lead to the formation of hives.

• Plants: Coming into contact with certain plants, such as poison ivy or poison oak, can cause an allergic reaction in dogs, resulting in the appearance of hives on their skin.

• Chemicals: dogs can be sensitive to chemicals sprayed on blooming trees, plants, or lawns. Also, hives in dogs can be triggered by excessive exposure to household chemicals, cleaning agents, or certain grooming products often used in springtime.
• Environmental Allergens: Some dogs may experience an allergic response to environmental allergens like pollen, mold spores, or other substances, leading to the formation of hives.
• Stress or Anxiety: while some dogs get more energetic and active during Spring, other dogs may develop stress and anxiety due to the seasonal changes. As the outdoors get lively, the increased noise and influx of people (excessive stimuli) can trigger restlessness in dogs, which can cause hives as a symptom.

Coughing; respiratory irritation in dogs

As the spring season brings about allergies in the air, dogs may experience respiratory irritation which can result in persistent coughing. These allergies are triggered by airborne allergens such as pollen, causing dogs to cough as their respiratory systems react to the irritants. Note that Seasonal coughing in dogs should not be mistaken as kennel cough, which is more of an infectious disease

To effectively manage this condition, pet owners should stay vigilant and pay close attention to any changes in their dog’s coughing patterns. Identifying the signs early on allows owners to take immediate action. If the coughing persists or worsens, it is crucial to seek veterinary advice. Professionals can provide tailored insights and recommend appropriate interventions.

Spring allergies in dogs; Itchy eyes and paws

Like humans, dogs too can experience itchy eyes as a symptom of spring allergies. Besides itching, your dog’s eyes may become watery due to persistent rubbing. Another common sign your dog is reacting to environmental irritants is itchiness in their paws, evident through increased licking and paw chewing.

Besides seasonal allergies, itching of the eyes and paws can be caused by other conditions that you need to rule out first. Common causes of itching in dogs include;

• Parasites such as mites
• An underlying infection
• Food allergies
• Candidiasis
• Dry paw pads
• Medication
• Dry skin.

if the itching in the eyes or paws immediately starts during Spring, then you can rule out any other condition and embark on finding the best dog allergy treatment for your pet.

Hair loss caused by seasonal allergies in dogs

Dogs with allergies in Spring are likely to develop hair loss from the excessive scratching, chewing, and licking of their coat. Your dog’s once pristine coat can end up having unsightly hairless patches from excessive scratching.

Common symptoms of dog hair loss include;

• Hair thinning
• Loss of hair around the eyes and mouth
• Areas of complete hair loss
• Affected areas appear black or dark grey
• Skin dryness and scaliness caused by hair loss
• Skin inflammation around the hair-loss areas
• Bleeding in affected areas (from excessive scratching)

Hair loss can be a sign that your dog has seasonal allergies or it could also indicate an underlying health concern; like canine atopic dermatitis or canine mange. To help your dog find relief, we always recommend consulting a trained vet doctor to rule out the possibility of other diseases other than dog seasonal skin allergies.

Other symptoms of allergies in dogs

For a comprehensive understanding, pet owners might consider exploring allergy testing, an option that could unveil specific triggers and guide targeted strategies for managing spring-induced hair loss in their cherished furry friends. By combining these measures, conscientious pet owners can nurture a healthier coat and enhance the overall well-being of their canine companions.

Here are other common dog seasonal allergies symptoms to look out for:

• Excessive scratching and biting: Dogs with seasonal allergies often scratch or bite their coat and skin excessively. This is a result of the itchiness and irritation caused by the allergens.
• Red, inflamed, or infected skin: Allergic reactions can lead to redness, inflammation, or even skin infections in dogs. It’s important to monitor your dog’s skin condition regularly.
• Excessive shedding: Seasonal allergies can sometimes trigger excessive shedding in dogs. If you notice your dog shedding more than usual, it could be a sign of allergies.
• Compulsive paw licking: Dogs may develop a habit of excessively licking their paws when they have allergies. This behavior is often an attempt to soothe the discomfort caused by the allergens.
• Boot scooting or licking anal glands: Some dogs may exhibit unusual behaviors such as scooting their rear end or excessive licking of their anal glands. These behaviors can be a response to allergies and should be addressed.
• Chronic ear infections or red, waxy ears: Dogs prone to ear problems may experience chronic ear infections or have red and waxy ears as a result of seasonal allergies.
• Respiratory issues: While less common in dogs than in cats, some dogs may experience respiratory issues such as difficulty breathing, coughing, or wheezing when they have seasonal allergies.

Providing Relief for Dogs with Seasonal Allergies

While there is no cure for seasonal allergies in dogs, there are several ways you can help alleviate their symptoms and provide them with relief.

Common options for providing dog allergy relief the counter medication or natural dog allergy remedies.

Dog seasonal allergy medication

One option to provide relief for your dog’s seasonal allergies is to give them over-the-counter antihistamine medication. However, it’s crucial to consult with your veterinarian before administering any medication to ensure the correct dosage for your dog’s specific needs. Some safe allergy medications for dogs include:

• Benedryl (diphenhydramine)
• Claritin (loratadine) (Do not give your pet Claritin-D)
• Zyrtec (cetirizine)
• Chlor-Trimeton (chlorpheniramine)

Generic brands for any of the above medications
It’s important to note that decongestants or medications containing pseudoephedrine, such as Claritin-D, should never be given to dogs as they are lethal even in small doses.

Natural Remedies for Dog Allergies in Spring

Wondering how to treat dog seasonal allergies at home?

If you prefer natural remedies for allergies in dogs and don’t want to rely too much on OTC medication, you can try one of the following solutions to provide allergy relief for dogs;

• Flea and tick preventative: Ensure your dog’s skin is not irritated by fleas, which can exacerbate allergy symptoms.
• Anti-itch sprays or creams: Topical application treatments specifically made for pets can provide temporary relief from itching and scratching.
• Regular baths: Bathing your dog with oatmeal shampoo can help remove allergens from their skin, soothe irritation, and minimize inflammation. Make sure to use products specifically formulated for pets to avoid additional irritation.
• Wiping off coat and paws: After outdoor activities, wipe down your dog’s coat, skin, and paws with a moist cloth or hypoallergenic grooming wipe to remove excess pollen and allergens.
• Nutritional supplement for skin and coat; health supplement products like Bullyade contain vitamins A, B, C, D, and E which are essential in promoting a healthy skin and coat in dogs. These supplements also improve your dog’s immune system helping them fight itchiness and skin infections better.
• Fatty acid supplements: Omega-3 fatty acids found in fish oil supplements can help relieve itchy skin and prevent skin infections, while also improving the condition of your dog’s coat.
• Organic honey: Some dog owners have had success with giving their dogs local honey, as it is believed to help desensitize them to pollen. However, the effectiveness of this remedy is not scientifically proven.
• Aloe vera– aloe vera is a natural allergy drug that will help soothe itchy skin and reduce inflammation caused by allergic reactions to external factors like bugs or chemicals. This soothing plant also contains anti-septic and anti-fungal properties to help clear common skin conditions in dogs.
• Coconut oil– like aloe vera, coconut oil is an essential oil that naturally soothes itchy skin in dogs. It can also help fight atopic dermatitis and infections.
• Avoiding allergens: Limit your dog’s exposure to allergens by reducing their time outdoors on high-pollen days. This may require keeping them inside during peak allergy seasons or avoiding certain environments.

Veterinary intervention for severe allergies

In severe cases where allergies persist despite other measures, your veterinarian may prescribe steroids or other medications to help control inflammation and provide relief. It’s essential to work closely with your vet to find the best treatment plan for your dog’s specific needs.

Additional details

It is worth mentioning that although this article primarily discusses dogs, cats can also suffer from seasonal allergies. However, cats tend to display respiratory symptoms more prominently.

In addition to the information provided, regular grooming and maintaining a clean living environment for your pet can assist in reducing allergen exposure and providing relief from allergy symptoms.

If you suspect that your pet is experiencing allergies, it is essential to consult with a veterinarian to eliminate other potential causes of their symptoms. Other conditions such as infections or parasites can manifest similar symptoms to allergies.

Conclusion

As a responsible pet owner, it’s important to be aware of the signs of seasonal allergies in dogs and take appropriate measures to provide relief. By recognizing the symptoms and utilizing various strategies such as medication, natural remedies, and veterinary intervention, you can help alleviate your dog’s discomfort and improve their quality of life during allergy seasons.

Remember to consult with your veterinarian for personalized advice and guidance in managing your dog’s allergies. With proper care and attention, your furry friend can enjoy the outdoors without the discomfort of seasonal allergies.