7 dog seasonal allergy symptoms to watch for

Medically Reviewed by: Dr. Caley Scott, ND

Ever noticed your furry friend sneezing with the change of seasons or scratching more than usual? You're not alone. 

Just like their human counterparts, our furry friends can also be affected by seasonal allergies. The changing times of the year can bring about a whole host of uncomfortable symptoms for our four-legged pals, making pet wellness an important consideration for every pet parent. 

Seasonal allergies in dogs are more common than you might think, and understanding them can help you ensure your dog stays comfortable all year round. But, don’t worry — there are steps you can take to help your pup power through these sniffle seasons.

What can cause seasonal allergies in dogs?

Seasonal allergies in dogs are primarily triggered by environmental allergens that make their presence felt during particular times of the year. Just as some of us start sneezing when spring flowers bloom, dogs can also react to these changes in their environment.

One common cause of seasonal allergies in dogs is tree pollen. These minute particles can be inhaled by your dog during their daily walks, leading to an allergic reaction. Dust mites, too, can stir up trouble. Because they thrive in warm, humid environments and can be found in dust around the home, dust mites can potentially cause year-round issues for some dogs.

Environmental allergens aren't confined to the great outdoors. Inside your home, substances such as mold spores and even certain fabrics can trigger an allergic response in your dog. It's important to bear in mind that each dog is unique, so what affects one might not affect another.

How do seasonal allergies affect dogs?

When a dog with a seasonal allergy encounters an allergen, their immune system springs into action. The immune system, which serves as the body's defense mechanism against harmful substances, can sometimes misidentify these harmless allergens as threats. When a specific allergen enters your dog's body, it can trigger an immune response, leading to the release of histamines. These chemicals are responsible for the typical allergy symptoms we see, such as itchiness, a runny nose, or irritated skin.

7 common symptoms of seasonal allergies in dogs

Just as humans exhibit certain symptoms when affected by seasonal allergies, dogs, too, have their own set of telltale signs. While each dog may react differently to allergens, there are common symptoms to watch out for. Recognizing these signs early can help us take timely action and keep our companions comfortable.

1. Sneezing and runny nose

One of the first signs you might notice is sneezing. When your dog inhales an allergen like tree pollen or dust mites, their body's natural response could be to sneeze to expel the irritant. A runny nose often accompanies sneezing. This is your dog's immune system attempting to flush out the allergen. Keep an eye out for these symptoms, especially during allergy season.

2. Itchy skin

Itchy skin, or pruritus, is another typical symptom of allergies in dogs. It often manifests as excessive scratching, biting, or licking. This can be a response to allergens in the environment or even flea bites. Excessive scratching not only causes discomfort but can also lead to more serious issues like secondary skin infections. If you notice your dog scratching more than usual, it might be time to investigate potential allergens in their environment.

3. Eye irritation

Another symptom to watch out for in your dog during allergy season is eye irritation. Exposure to allergens such as dust or pollen can cause your dog's eyes to become red, watery, or itchy. You might see your dog pawing at their eyes or squinting, indicating discomfort.

4. Hot spots

Hot spots, or acute moist dermatitis, are red, moist, irritated patches that can appear on a dog's skin in response to allergens. These areas can be quite painful for your dog and are often a result of excessive licking, chewing, or scratching. Hot spots can quickly worsen if not addressed, so immediate attention is necessary if you spot these on your pet.

5. Hair loss

Hair loss or alopecia can occur in dogs due to a variety of reasons, one of them being allergies. Allergens can cause inflammation on the dog's skin, leading to excessive scratching and, ultimately, hair loss. If you notice bald patches or thinning hair on your dog, it might be a sign of an allergic reaction.

6. Ear infections

Dogs with allergies are more prone to ear infections. This is because the inflammation caused by an allergic reaction can create an environment in the ear canal that is conducive to bacterial and yeast growth. Signs of an ear infection in dogs include scratching of the ear, head shaking, and a foul smell from the ear. If left untreated, ear infections can lead to serious complications.

7. Scooting

Scooting, or dragging the rear end along the ground, is often a sign of anal gland issues in dogs. However, it can also be a symptom of allergies. Inflammation caused by allergies can lead to discomfort around the tail area, causing your dog to scoot. It's essential to address this behavior as it can lead to wounds and secondary infections.

By keeping a keen eye on these symptoms, you can make sure your four-legged friend’s tail keeps wagging, even in the heart of allergy season. 

How to differentiate between environmental and food allergies in dogs

While we've focused on environmental allergies so far, it's important to note that our furry friends can also be affected by food allergies. While both types of allergies trigger the immune system, they do so in different ways and can cause different symptoms.

Food allergies in dogs are typically a reaction to a specific ingredient in their diet. These allergies can cause a range of symptoms, from gastrointestinal issues like vomiting and diarrhea to skin problems such as itchiness and hot spots. Unlike environmental allergies that are often seasonal, food allergies can occur at any time as long as the dog continues to consume the problematic ingredient.

What makes food allergies tricky is that they can mirror symptoms of environmental allergies. If your dog is experiencing ongoing gastrointestinal discomfort or chronic ear infections, it could be a sign of a food allergy. In such cases, it’s best to consult with your vet. They can help determine if your dog has a food allergy and identify the problematic ingredient. This allows you to adjust your pet's diet accordingly, ensuring they remain happy and healthy.

How can pet parents help their dogs during allergy season?

As a pet parent, there's nothing more challenging than seeing your furry friend in discomfort. But Sunmed's Broad Spectrum Allergy Aid CBD Pet Chews offer a natural way to support your pet through seasonal allergies.

Formulated with veterinarians, our innovative chews work hard to soothe skin-related issues associated with seasonal allergies. Just like humans, our favorite mammals have an endocannabinoid system (ECS) that plays a crucial role in maintaining bodily balance.* By supporting their ECS, CBD can help ease feelings of discomfort and provide relief.*

Along with premium hemp-derived CBD, our chews are brimming with omega-3 fatty acids and B7. These essential nutrients play a key role in maintaining a healthy coat and skin, providing your pet with the wellness support they need in every bite.*

At Sunmed, we understand the bond between you and your pet. We're committed to helping your furry friend get through allergy season with less discomfort.

How to help prevent and manage seasonal allergies in dogs

Acting as the first line of defense against seasonal allergies for your furry friend starts with managing their exposure to allergens. Here are a few tips to help you paw-actively keep your pet comfortable:

• Maintain a Clean Environment: Regularly cleaning your home can help reduce the presence of indoor allergens like dust mites. Pay special attention to your pet's bedding and favorite lounging spots. Remember, a clean environment is a key step towards a sneeze-free season.

• Flea Control: Flea bites can trigger flea allergy dermatitis, causing skin irritation and excessive scratching in dogs. Regular flea treatments can prevent this, making your dog's life a lot less itchy.

• Try Hypoallergenic Shampoos: Hypoallergenic shampoos can help soothe inflamed skin and provide relief from itching. Consider incorporating these into your dog's grooming routine, especially during peak allergy seasons.

With these steps, you can help keep your dog feeling their best, no matter the season. 

The bottom line

As a pet parent, we know you’re used to being attuned to your dog's needs, especially when the going gets ruff. Recognizing the symptoms of seasonal allergies and seeking appropriate treatment options is crucial to ensure your furry friend's comfort and happiness. Remember, if your dog's allergy symptoms persist, it's always a good idea to seek professional help.

At Sunmed, we believe in providing the best for both you and your pet. That's why we offer a range of natural CBD products designed to support overall wellness. From our Broad Spectrum Allergy Aid CBD Pet Chews to our carefully crafted products for humans, we've got you covered. After all, you both deserve the positive effects of premium wellness support.

Ready to embark on a journey towards better wellness? Explore our full range of all-natural, third party tested CBD products today.

*This statement has not been evaluated by the Food & Drug Administration. This product is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease.

Sources:

Signs your pet has seasonal allergies — and what you can do to help | Animal Humane Society

Allergies and the Immune System | Johns Hopkins Medicine

Itchy ear problems | Cornell University College of Veterinary Medicine

Food allergy in dogs and cats; current perspectives on etiology, diagnosis, and management | PMC

The essential nature of dietary omega-3 fatty acids in dogs in | JAVMA