If your dog is scratching more than usual this spring, fleas might not be the issue. Seasonal allergies, like hay fever in humans, affect dogs differently, often showing up as persistent itching, rashes, or sleep disturbances, say veterinarians who have noted an increase in cases in recent years.

To start, vets recommend keeping your dog’s flea prevention medication up to date to minimize confusion with similar symptoms. Here’s how to recognize signs of spring allergies in dogs and ways to alleviate their discomfort.

Signs of Seasonal Allergies in Dogs

“Dogs don’t get asthma or hay fever,” explains Douglas DeBoer, a veterinary professor specializing in dermatology at the University of Wisconsin-Madison.

“Dogs manifest allergies by having itchy, inflamed skin.” Unlike humans, dogs usually don’t develop respiratory symptoms; they scratch and may develop irritated skin.

Professor DeBoer adds that mild allergies often go unnoticed as dogs frequently scratch themselves. Recognizing allergies depends largely on the severity of the symptoms.

Pet owners should become concerned if their dog’s scratching leads to bleeding or disrupts their sleep, signaling the need for a veterinary visit.

Research from Canine Cottages, a dog-friendly rental firm, shows a 5,000 percent increase in online searches for “signs of allergies in dogs” since April, highlighting the growing concern among pet owners.

Breeds and Age Factors

Seasonal allergies typically appear within the first three years of a dog’s life and are often linked to breed genetics.

Professor DeBoer points out that retrievers, terriers, and French bulldogs may be more prone to these allergies, much like humans with hereditary conditions.

Immediate Relief and Treatment

While a vet visit is crucial for managing symptoms, some over-the-counter remedies can provide temporary relief.

Hydrocortisone cream, for instance, can be effective on areas like paws or hairless spots on a dog’s belly.

However, as Professor DeBoer notes, applying creams to a dog’s entire body is not practical due to their fur.

Dog behaviorist Dr. Emma Scales-Theobald from the University of Surrey advises consulting with a vet if symptoms persist or worsen, especially when over-the-counter options fall short.

She also suggests observing other signs, such as increased scratching after outdoor activities, which may indicate exposure to allergens like pollen.

Additional Symptoms and Preventative Measures

Dogs can occasionally display allergy symptoms similar to humans, such as itchy eyes, a runny nose, or sneezing.

Dr. Scales-Theobald lists other signs like excessive licking around the ears and paws, red and inflamed skin, hives, hot spots, and even hair loss or breathing difficulties.

To help manage allergies, she recommends adjusting walk times to late afternoons or evenings when pollen levels are lower and wiping down your dog’s paws and coat after outdoor exposure. Regular baths can also help reduce pollen buildup.

Incorporating anti-inflammatory treats or supplements like omega-3 fatty acids into your dog’s diet ahead of peak allergy season can help lessen flare-ups and itching, as these need time to accumulate in their system.

Beyond Seasonal Allergies

Dr. Scales-Theobald warns that not all allergies are seasonal. Food allergies, often triggered by dairy, wheat, or chicken, and environmental factors like dust mites, mold, grooming products, or fabric conditioners, could also be to blame.

If allergy symptoms persist, evaluating your dog’s diet and home environment can be critical steps in managing their overall health.

You can help keep your dog comfortable during allergy season by staying vigilant and taking proactive measures.

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