Allergies in dogs in spring: symptoms and tips for relief

Spring marks the start of a difficult time for many dogs: pollen, grass and environmental allergens trigger increased reactions that can lead to itching, breathing problems and skin rashes. But not only pollen allergies are a problem - also food intolerances or flea saliva allergies also cause problems for many four-legged friends. In this article, you can find out all about allergies in dogs, which symptoms indicate them and which measures can help.

Which allergies occur in dogs?

Dogs can suffer from various types of allergies. The most common are

1. pollen and environmental allergies

These allergies, also known as atopic dermatitis, are triggered by environmental allergens such as pollen, grass, house dust mites or mold spores. Especially during the hay fever season, the concentration of pollen increases, which can lead to increased symptoms.

2. food allergies

A reaction to certain feed components such as proteins, cereals or additives. An exclusion diet or an elimination diet often helps to identify the allergenic substances.

3. flea saliva allergy

A single flea bite can cause a strong immune reaction, which manifests itself in severe itching, skin infections and wheals.

4. contact allergy

Some dogs are sensitive to certain materials such as cleaning agents, plastics or textiles.

Symptoms of an allergy in dogs

The signs of a dog allergy are varied. Common symptoms are

• Itching: Constant scratching, licking or biting at certain parts of the body.
• Redness and skin rashes: Especially on the paws, ears or belly.
• Skin rashes and wheals: Skin reactions that indicate allergenic substances.
• Conjunctivitis: Reddened or watery eyes.
• Breathing problems: Coughing, sneezing or difficult breathing with environmental allergens.
• Ear infections: Frequent head shaking and unpleasant odor from the ears.
• Secondary infections: Frequent scratching can lead to skin infections with yeast or bacteria.

Diagnosis of a dog allergy

There are various diagnostic methods to find out what your dog is allergic to:

• Skin test: Allergens are injected under the skin to observe reactions.
• Blood tests: Determine antibodies against certain allergens.
• Exclusion diet: A special diet without potential allergens helps to identify food allergies.

Treatment and alleviation of allergies

1. desensitization and hyposensitization

This form of therapy helps with environmental allergies. The dog is exposed to small amounts of the allergenic substances over a longer period of time in order to reduce the immune response.

2. antihistamines and medication

Antihistamines, Cytopoint or cortisone can help to alleviate symptoms. Consultation with your vet is important to find the right dosage.

3. adjustment of feeding

A grain-free diet or switching to a new protein source can help with Feed allergies can help.

4. skin protection and care

• Special dog food: Often contains ingredients that support the intestinal mucosa and the immune system.
• Strengthen the skin's protective film: With special shampoos or nutritional supplements.
• Paw care: Wash paws after walks to remove pollen.

5. avoid allergenic substances

• Pay attention to pollen concentration: Plan walks in the early morning or late evening.
• Vacuum regularly: Reduce dust mites.
• Frequent brushing: Remove pollen from the coat.

When should you go to the vet?

If your dog shows severe symptoms, suffers from breathing problems or develops skin infections, you should consult a vet. Early diagnosis can help prevent long-term damage.

Conclusion: Enjoy spring despite dog allergies

Allergies in dogs are a challenge, but with the right care and targeted measures, you can give your four-legged friend relief. With a combination of diagnosis, avoidance of allergenic substances and targeted treatment, your dog can enjoy spring despite allergies!