Allergies Can't Keep a Good Dog Down!

Just like humans, dogs can be affected by seasonal changes and the different allergens that come with each season. While some of these allergens may cause typical symptoms like sneezing and runny nose, others can affect your dog's skin and paws. Understanding the potential triggers of seasonal allergies in dogs can help you identify and manage their symptoms, so they can feel their best all year long.

In the spring and summer, dogs can be exposed to high pollen counts during outdoor activities, such as walks or playing in the park. This can cause symptoms like sneezing, runny nose, and itchy eyes. But pollen can also land on your dog's skin and paws, leading to redness, itching, and hot spots. If your dog is constantly licking or chewing their paws, it may be a sign of seasonal allergies.

In the fall, increased humidity can cause mold to thrive, which can trigger allergies in dogs. Mold spores can cause respiratory symptoms, but they can also affect your dog's skin and paws. Dogs that are allergic to mold may develop rashes, bumps, and scabs on their skin. They may also experience excessive scratching or biting of their paws.

During the winter months, dust mites can thrive in the warm, humid environment of heated homes. This can be especially problematic for dogs that spend more time indoors during the colder months. Dust mites can cause respiratory symptoms like coughing and wheezing, but they can also affect your dog's skin. Dust mites can cause dry, flaky skin and can lead to excessive itching, scratching, and biting. Indoor allergens such as pet dander, dust, and mold can also trigger allergies in dogs that spend more time indoors during the winter months. These allergens can cause respiratory symptoms, but they can also affect your dog's skin and paws. Dogs that are allergic to these indoor allergens may develop skin rashes, hives, and blisters. They may also experience paw licking and biting, which can lead to infections.

Changes in diet due to seasonal availability can also cause allergic reactions in dogs. For example, a dog that is allergic to certain types of fish may experience symptoms when a new brand of dog food is introduced that contains fish as an ingredient. Allergies to food can cause gastrointestinal symptoms like vomiting and diarrhea, but they can also affect your dog's skin and coat. Dogs with food allergies may develop itchy, inflamed skin, and their fur may become thin or dull.

If you suspect your dog has allergies, it is important to consult with a veterinarian who can perform allergy testing and recommend an appropriate treatment plan. Treatment options may include antihistamines, corticosteroids, immunotherapy, and natural supplements such as colostrum or probiotics to help support your dog's immune system and reduce inflammation. See Woofceuticals Colostrum here!

Seasonal allergies can be a nuisance for your furry friend, but with proper management and the right treatments, you can help them feel their best. So keep an eye out for symptoms like sneezing, itching, paw licking, rashes, bumps, scabs, hives, blisters, dry, flaky skin, thin or dull fur, and work with your veterinarian to find the best treatment options for your pup. Remember, allergies can't keep a good dog down!