With rising temperatures and higher pollen counts across the UK this month, allergy symptoms are increasing for both humans and dogs.
The warmer months can be challenging for dog owners, especially those with dogs prone to allergies. The increase in fleas and ticks during this time can further exacerbate symptoms, so it’s vital to prioritise your dog’s comfort and health.
Sean McCormack, Head Vet at Tails.com, has shared his expert advice on how best to manage allergies at home (particularly hay fever symptoms) and highlighted which breeds are more susceptible to allergic reactions.
Signs your dog may have allergies
Several types of allergies can affect dogs. If your dog is displaying any of the following symptoms, it’s best to book an appointment with your vet. They may prescribe dog-safe antihistamines or other medications to help ease your pet’s discomfort.
Dog allergies are typically categorised by the allergen and the area of the body it affects. For example:
- Contact allergies: Usually skin-based, these can cause itching, scratching, and redness.
- Food allergies: These may present a few hours after eating and can lead to hives, obsessive licking, or vomiting and diarrhoea.
Allergies can develop as dogs age or may appear later in life. General signs to watch for include:
- Scratching and itching
- Excessive licking
- Eye discharge
- Hair loss
- Sneezing
- Red, irritated skin
- Head shaking
- Swollen or red eyes
- Diarrhoea
- Vomiting
As mentioned, if your dog begins displaying any of these symptoms, consult your vet as soon as possible. Allergies can be difficult to diagnose and often share characteristics with other health conditions. Your vet will be able to advise you on the best course of action and carry out any necessary tests to determine the specific type of allergy your dog may be experiencing.
Dealing with hay fever symptoms
It’s sad to think that our dogs can suffer from hay fever, and although it’s not as common in dogs as it is in humans, the symptoms can still be very uncomfortable.
The way these symptoms present differs significantly between dogs and humans. While we tend to experience sniffles, runny eyes, and noses, dogs are more likely to suffer from itchy, inflamed skin.
Although hay fever is typically more prevalent during the warmer months, the time of year your dog experiences symptoms will depend on the type of pollen they are sensitive to:
- March – May: Tree pollen is the main cause of hay fever during this time.
- May – July: Grass pollen becomes the biggest trigger.
- July – September: Flower pollen is most present, although the season for it begins as early as April.
If your dog is displaying any of the symptoms mentioned earlier, it’s best to contact your vet. In the meantime, you can help alleviate their discomfort at home:
- Walk your dog during low-pollen times: Use the weather app on your phone to check pollen levels and plan walks for times when counts are lower, usually in the morning or later in the evening.
- Weekly bathing: Regular bathing can help relieve symptoms by removing pollen from the fur and skin and soothing inflamed areas. Use a hypoallergenic shampoo containing ingredients such as aloe or oats – just ensure it’s dog-safe.
- Wipe down your dog’s fur: Between baths, use dog-safe wipes or a damp flannel to remove pollen, focusing on the paws, tail, and face.
- Vacuum regularly: Keep your home clean, especially where your dog spends most of their time. Vacuum doorways, windowsills, and your dog’s favourite resting spots to help keep indoor pollen levels down.
- Air purifiers: If within your budget, an air purifier can be beneficial for both humans and dogs, improving overall air quality and reducing allergen levels.
Which dog breeds are more prone to allergies?
While all dogs have the potential to develop allergies, certain breeds are more genetically predisposed than others. However, just as with people, each dog’s response to an allergen is unique – symptoms can range from mild to severe.
Here are six breeds particularly prone to allergies, along with signs that may require prompt treatment:
West Highland White Terrier (Westie)
Westies are prone to allergies, especially in spring and summer, mainly due to genetic predisposition and environmental factors. They are susceptible to atopic dermatitis, often reacting to airborne allergens such as pollen, grasses, and dust mites.
Bichon Frisé
Despite often being marketed as a hypoallergenic breed for humans, Bichon Frisés themselves are highly prone to skin-related conditions and food sensitivities. They are also sensitive to fleas and may even experience respiratory symptoms when exposed to allergens.
Golden Retriever
Golden Retrievers are prone to three main types of allergies:
- Food allergies: Common triggers include beef, chicken, dairy, wheat, and soy.
- Environmental allergies: Pollen, dust mites, and various grasses can provoke reactions.
- Contact allergies: Triggered by fabrics, cleaning agents, or grooming products.
Signs include vomiting, diarrhoea, skin irritation, and obsessive licking. Due to their thick coats, skin issues may be hard to detect initially.
German Shepherd
German Shepherds are susceptible to food allergies, often developing reactions to proteins like beef and lamb, and to soy and dairy products. Symptoms may include skin irritation (especially around the ears), gastrointestinal issues, and frequent ear infections.
Cocker Spaniel
Cocker Spaniels are prone to food, contact, and airborne allergies. They can also suffer from hay fever and may react to pollen, mould, mildew, dust, and certain household chemicals. Common signs include ear infections, full-body itching, and in extreme cases, hair loss.
Boxer
Boxers are particularly sensitive to food allergens, especially grain-based ingredients like corn and wheat. Symptoms include gastrointestinal upset, vomiting, and in more severe cases, weight loss or dehydration.