It seems difficult to believe that spring is almost here. Christmas doesn’t seem all that long ago, but the days are gradually getting longer and for many of us the weather is becoming more pleasant.
Of course, with spring, it can be time for allergies in dogs to rear their head again – and the same goes for humans, too. Allergies can make everything from going on walks to even just enjoying some of the best dog food less fun for them. But how can you tell if your dog is struggling with allergies, in order to get them the help they need?
It can be difficult to know if your dog is allergic to things like pollen and dust mites, so this is where the experts come in. Dr. Aimee Warner, resident vet at pet insurance company Waggel is on hand to outline five key signs that our dogs may have allergies – and what other problems you might mistake the allergy symptoms for.
Signs of spring allergies in dogs
1. Excessive scratching and licking: If your dog is always chewing or licking their paws or scratching, they might have atopic dermatitis, or eczema. It affects at least 10% of dogs, according to the University of Nottingham’s Itchy Dog Project, so it’s fairly common, and can be a reaction to pollen or mold.
2. Inflamed and patchy skin: Allergens can cause your pup’s skin to flare up. This might result in hair loss, or you might notice red spots on their skin.
3. Runny nose and watery eyes: A symptom that many of us with hay fever will be able to relate to, many dogs suffer from nose and eye issues when they have seasonal allergies too, so watch out for your dog sneezing!
“Pollen can also cause respiratory reactions in dogs, especially on short-nosed breeds like pugs and Bulldogs,” adds Dr. Warner.
4. Head shaking and infections: Is your dog shaking their head a lot? If it’s something you’ve noticed, and they’re scratching their ears too, they may have a buildup of wax and possibly inflammation, too.
5. Lethargy and irritability: If you think your dog’s energy levels have dipped, it might be because of allergies – they can make us feel more lethargic and it’s the same for our canines. Likewise, allergies might make your dog feel more irritable than usual.
Dr. Warner explains, “Spring allergies can significantly impact a dog's wellbeing, but with the right preventative measures, pet owners can help minimize symptoms and improve their pet's quality of life.
“If you notice persistent scratching, ear infections, or skin issues, it's essential to consult with a vet promptly to determine the appropriate treatment plan and rule out any more serious conditions."
For more advice, here’s how to help a dog with allergies and here’s our guide to the best dog food for allergies
