We all love the Spring and Summer months, bringing sunshine and longer days, but the warmer months also bring something else. Hayfever is a common allergy not only in humans but also in dogs. In fact, it is estimated that around 10% of dogs in the UK suffer from some hayfever-like symptoms. This is also known as environmental allergies in dogs. We're here to share everything you need to know. From the common causes and tell-tale symptoms of hayfever in dogs to ways to help ease their symptoms.
What are the symptoms?
Common symptoms of hayfever in humans such as a runny nose, sneezing and coughing aren't necessarily the same for our canine counterparts. The main symptom that usually affects dogs is skin irritation and itchiness.
You may notice your dog itching, rubbing or nibbling on their paws or ears. Other sensitive areas that tend to be itchy are the ears, eyes and mouth. Hayfever can also leave your dog's skin looking red, sore or flaky and may result in them losing fur due to excessive scratching.
Other symptoms that your dog may experience include;
- frequent sneezing
- red, itchy eyes
- runny nose
- rashes, especially on faces and paws
If you do spot any of these symptoms in your dog, particularly outside of the typical hayfever season, it could suggest that they are suffering from an allergy to something else such as fleas or food. If your dog experiences any of these symptoms, we recommend speaking to your vet.
What causes hayfever in dogs?
Hayfever in dogs is caused by allergens in the air penetrating their skin and causing an allergic reaction. Hayfever season can relate to the type of pollen that your dog is allergic to. Tree pollen is at its worst during late March to mid May. grass pollen is most prevalent from mid May to July and weed pollen from the end of June until September.
Hayfever in dogs can start at any age, but usually develops early on. Research suggests that exposing a dog to a range of pollen, such as in grass, trees and plants, when they are young can help them to build immunity and possibly prevent them from developing hayfever.
Some dog breeds are more susceptible to developing hayfever symptoms. These are Poodles, West Highland Terriers, Dalmations, Irish Setters and Schnauzers.
How to treat hayfever in dogs?
Unfortunately, there is no cure for hayfever in dogs, however there are things that you can do to help manage their symptoms. Speak to your vet about treatment options such as medicated shampoos, skin spray, creams, ear, eye or nasal drops and possibly even medication or injections depending on the severity of symptoms.
There are also a few things that you can do to help limit their exposure;
- Go for walkies early in the morning or late at night when pollen counts are lower
- After a walk, wipe your dog to remove any pollen from their paws, fur, or face
- Keep any grass in your garden cut short and reduce your dog's garden time
- Regularly wash your dog's bedding
- During hayfever season, keep windows and doors shut whenever possible
- Stay on top of your dog's grooming and flea and worming treatments