How to Spot Allergies in Dogs

How to Spot Allergies in Dogs

Just like people, dogs can have allergies and when they do it can make life a little uncomfortable for them and worrying for us. Allergies happen when your pup’s immune system overreacts to something harmless like pollen or dust and treats it as if it’s dangerous. These triggers, called allergens, can be breathed in, eaten or absorbed through the skin which then sets off the reaction.

Some of the most common allergens for dogs are pollen, dust mites, mould, certain foods, and flea saliva. The good news is that once you know what to look for, you can start helping your dog feel more comfortable.

How to Know if Your Dog Has Allergies

Keep an eye out for these common signs:

  • Persistent scratching or biting at their skin. Constant itch can break the skin and invite infection if it goes unchecked.
  • Licking or chewing paws. 
  • Redness, rashes, or flaky skin. 
  • Ear infections that keep coming back. 
  • Watery eyes or sneezing. Sometimes worse after walks or windy days
  • Upset tummy or digestive issues. Soft stools, gas, or vomiting. This is more common with food triggers.

If you notice more than one of these symptoms, there’s a good chance allergies could be involved, and knowing the signs is the first step toward finding relief for your pup.

What Causes Allergies in Dogs?

Allergies in dogs can be triggered by a variety of things, and sometimes more than one culprit is to blame. Knowing the most common triggers can help you pinpoint what might be bothering your pup.

Pollen

Pollen from trees, grasses, and weeds is a big cause of seasonal allergies. Just like in humans, when pollen lands on your dog’s skin or gets inhaled, their immune system can go into overdrive. The result? Itchy skin, red ears, and lots of paw licking or scratching, especially in spring and autumn. Some breeds like Golden Retrievers, Bulldogs, Boxers, West Highland White Terriers, and German Shepherds seem more prone to pollen allergies than others.

Dust Mites

These tiny critters are practically invisible but love to hang out in bedding, carpets, and even your dog's toys. When your dog comes into contact with dust mite proteins even from dead mites, it can set off their allergies. This often leads to itchy, inflamed skin, and in some cases, breathing issues like wheezing or sneezing.

Mould

Mould releases microscopic spores that float through the air and settle on surfaces. When dogs inhale or touch these spores, it can trigger an allergic reaction. Unlike pollen, mould can grow indoors all year round, especially in damp spots like bathrooms, basements, or inside air conditioning systems. It can also appear on dog bedding, toys, leashes, and bowls. This kind of allergy can cause itchy skin, sneezing, and stubborn ear infections.

Fleas

Fleas might be tiny, but they can cause a big reaction, and it’s not the bite itself but the proteins in flea saliva that cause trouble. For dogs with Flea Allergy Dermatitis, even a single bite can cause intense itching, hair loss, and hot spots. You might not even see the fleas, but the irritation they cause can last for weeks. Preventing bites in the first place is the best way to keep these allergies under control.

Allergies in Dogs at Different Severities

Every dog is different. Some barely notice their allergies, while others can be completely thrown off their game. Knowing what to look for can help you step in early before things get worse.

Mild Reactions

Mild allergies are more of an everyday nuisance than a danger. You might notice:

  • Occasional scratching or nibbling at their skin
  • Sneezing after a walk or being outside
  • Licking or chewing paws (sometimes until they’re a bit red)
  • Watery, red, or slightly irritated eyes
  • Small patches of irritated or dry skin
  • A little more tiredness than usual

These aren’t cause for panic, but they do mean something’s irritating your pup.

Moderate Reactions

Moderate reactions are harder to miss and can include:

  • Swelling around the eyes, lips, or ears
  • Breathing that sounds different (wheezing or raspy)
  • Persistent coughing (dry or mucus-filled)
  • Digestive upset like vomiting or diarrhea
  • General discomfort or restlessness

If you see these signs, it’s time to check in with your vet.

Severe Reactions

Severe allergic reactions can happen quickly and are considered emergencies. Watch for:

  • Sudden difficulty breathing
  • Swelling in the throat or tongue
  • Collapse or disorientation
  • Pale gums
  • Rapid heartbeat
  • Weakness or inability to stand

If you spot any of these, get your dog to the vet immediately.

How You Can Help With Your Pup's Allergies 

When your dog is dealing with itchy skin, watery eyes, or digestive discomfort, it’s hard not to feel for them. The good news is, there are plenty of simple things you can do at home to help.

Support from the Inside Out

Fish Oil

Fish oil works like a calming balm from within. Rich in omega-3 fatty acids, it helps soothe inflammation and strengthen your dog’s skin barrier, one of the key defences against allergens like pollen and dust. Pair it with gut-friendly probiotics, and you’ve got gentle dog allergy relief that works from the inside out, helping your furry friend feel more comfortable all year round.

Vitamin C

During an allergic flare-up, the body releases histamine, which fuels itching and swelling. Vitamin C helps break down excess histamine and supports skin repair, making it a helpful addition to an itchy dog supplement routine. 

Zinc

Zinc boosts the immune system and supports healthy skin by promoting collagen and keratin production. A stronger skin barrier means fewer allergens getting through, and fewer flare-ups.

Probiotics

Vets often recommend pairing a quality probiotic with skin-supporting nutrients to help strengthen the skin barrier and reduce flare-ups. It’s best to try one supplement with your dog before adding any new ones. This way, if they have an allergic reaction or simply don’t respond well, you’ll know exactly which product to stop using.

Easy Ways to Reduce Allergy Triggers at Home 

Keeping allergens under control doesn’t have to be a big job. A few simple tweaks to your routine can make your dog feel a whole lot better.

  • Pick the right walk time. Try walking your dog early in the morning, later in the evening, or after a nice rain shower when pollen levels are at their lowest.
  • Freshen up the air. A quality HEPA air purifier can help trap pollen, dust, and other allergens before they settle into your dog’s fur or around your home.
  • Choose gentler walking routes. Shady streets, tree-lined paths, and paved walkways are often easier on sensitive pups than grassy fields in full bloom.
  • Keep things clean. Vacuum regularly, especially in areas where your dog spends the most time, to keep dust mites and allergens at bay.
  • Wash bowls and toys. Clean your dog’s bowls daily and give their toys a weekly scrub to stop bacteria and mould spores from building up.
  • Let in some fresh air. Open your windows whenever possible and keep your home dry with fans or a dehumidifier to prevent mould and dust mites from thriving.

    Frequently Asked Questions: Helping Dogs with Allergies

    How do I know if my dog’s itching is from allergies or something else? 

    Allergies often come with extra clues. Along with scratching, you might see redness, thinning fur, or ear infections that just won’t go away. But not every itchy dog has allergies. Parasites, fungal infections, or other skin conditions can look similar. If the itching isn’t improving or you notice other changes, it’s best to visit your vet so you can get a clear answer and the right treatment.

    Can dogs outgrow allergies, or will they have them for life?

    It really depends on the dog. Some only experience allergies during certain seasons or when exposed to specific triggers, like a type of food or plant. Once those triggers are removed, the symptoms may disappear for good. Others may need ongoing care to stay comfortable. With regular vet visits and consistent allergy-friendly habits, most pups can live happily and itch-free.

    Can probiotics help with dog allergies?

    Yes, they can. A healthy gut plays a big role in how the immune system reacts to allergens. When the gut microbiome is balanced, it can help reduce the overreactions that lead to itching, redness, or stomach upsets. That’s why many vets recommend including a good-quality dog probiotic for itchy skin as part of a broader allergy management plan.