Signs Your Dog Has Seasonal Allergies

Humans are not the only ones who suffer from seasonal allergies, your dog can also experience uncomfortable allergy symptoms. There are many things in our environment which can trigger allergies in your dog, such as grass and pollen from trees. If you only notice allergy symptoms in your pet during the fall and spring, they are most likely suffering from seasonal allergies rather than being chronically allergic. 

Seasonal allergies mean your dog is only allergic to allergens that are present during specific times of the year. Seasonal allergies can result in your dog experiencing itchy paws, or itchy skin all over their body. There are certain skin infections and ear infections that can result from seasonal allergies, as well, such as when your pet is exposed to different environmental allergens at different times throughout the year.

Typically,  seasonal allergies will cause your dog to experience symptoms during the fall (September through November) and the spring (March through May.) These times will vary depending on your location and weather conditions. These are the typical signs your dog has seasonal allergies:

  • Stains from their saliva on the fur where they have excessively licked their skin
  • Excessive scratching
  • Loss of hair
  • Crusts developing on their nose, paws, or other exposed skin areas
  • Ears and skin developing an odor
  • Excessive licking of their paws or other areas on their body
  • Excessive gnawing or chewing
  • Red patches appear on the skin
  • Skin becomes moist
  • The skin develops dark or black-pigmented areas
  • Skin becomes thicker
  • Pawing at their face, eyes, or ears
  • Licking or scooting of the anal area due to anal sacs becoming uncomfortable due to allergies
  • Watery eyes, weeping

The most common area of your dog's body to experience allergy symptoms is their paws, especially in between their toes. Other areas that will become problematic are the ears, mouth, tail, groin, limbs, eyes, and abdomen.

Why Your Dog Has Seasonal Allergies

Your dog can suffer from seasonal allergies because their immune system is hypersensitive to different allergens. With this hypersensitivity, when allergens become present in their environment, it triggers an allergic response and development of any one or more of the above symptoms.

Seasonal allergies in dogs can be diagnosed through a physical exam by your veterinarian. Other skin conditions can mimic seasonal allergy symptoms, such as food allergies, fleas, or skin mites. You will want to ensure there are no other reasons for your dog's skin condition or symptoms before treating them for seasonal allergies.

How to Treat Seasonal Allergies For Your Dog

Seasonal allergies are a genetic condition, and there is no cure for your pet. There are, however, ways to treat the symptoms and make your dog more comfortable during these times of the year.

  • Anti-Itch Powerhouse Atopicream HC & Command Shampoo
    • Command shampoo contains a potent antiseptic ingredient that has been proven to eliminate unwanted proliferation of  bacteria and fungus on the skin.  It has excellent dispersion and lathering to reduce your dog's itch and odor. This deep-cleansing shampoo will also reduce tear staining as it lightens and brightens a dog's coat. Atopicream™ HC is a leave-in conditioner that includes 1% hydrocortisone to provide your dog relief from dry skin and allergy symptoms affecting their skin while working to restore the skin’s natural barrier. It will provide relief from various irritations, such as insect bites, allergic responses, and abrasions. This conditioner also contains vitamin E, ceramides, potent essential fatty acids, and aloe vera all of which will improve the condition of your dog's skin. 
  • Fish Oil Supplement
    • High potency fish oil which is an omega-3 fatty acid supplement has been thoroughly researched for its anti-inflammatory effects and can help your dog's anal gland issues during seasonal allergy times. This supplement does take about four to six weeks to become effective in your pet's system, so if your dog experiences allergic reactions, you may want to keep them on this supplement year-round. Recommended dosing is 180mg EPA per 10 lbs of body weight, as a daily dietary supplement. 

It is not only frustrating for your dog, but for you as well, when your beloved pet suffers from seasonal allergies. The good news is, though, these symptoms can be controlled and managed to help both of you enjoy the change of seasons. VetriMax cares about your pet's coat and skin health. We offer products that have been expertly created and clinically tested to provide your dog relief from seasonal allergies and other skin conditions.




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