Why Your Dog Is So Itchy This Spring (and 5 Ways to Help)

Humans aren’t the only ones who suffer from seasonal allergies. When the weather warms up in the spring, many dog owners notice their pets start to itch and scratch. Some dogs have severe reactions and end up licking so much that they develop hot spots or fur loss.

If it feels like your pets are suffering from spring allergies more than ever before, it’s not your imagination. A report from 2018 revealed a 30% increase in cases of dogs and an 11% increase in cases of cats with environmental allergies over the previous 10 years.

Why Are Seasonal Allergies on the Rise?

Although there isn’t much recent research on tracking it, environmental allergies, also known as atopic dermatitis, appear to be on the rise in our pets. Anecdotally, many pet owners and vets will swear that they see allergy season getting worse every year for their dogs.

What Are the Symptoms of Atopic Dermatitis in Dogs?

While humans get runny noses, sinus headaches, and watery eyes, dog allergies show up differently. Dogs primarily develop itchy skin, rashes, hives, fur loss, and ear infections. You may notice your dog licking its paws excessively, shaking its head, rubbing its face, or showing signs of hair loss and inflamed skin.

When Do Seasonal Allergies Most Often Strike?

It’s not just spring that causes dogs to itch and scratch. Many dogs also suffer from environmental allergies in the fall, and some unfortunate pups experience itching year-round. However, spring is the most common time for dogs to develop skin irritation.

5 Vet-Recommended Ways to Prevent Flare-Ups

There is no cure for environmental allergies, but you can help prevent symptoms and ease your dog’s discomfort. Veterinarian Dr. Jo Myers shared the following five tips for managing symptoms in a press release from Vetster.

1. Stay on flea prevention year-round.

“Flea allergy dermatitis is one of the most common allergies in dogs. Regular use of a vet-recommended flea control product is the best way to prevent it,” Dr. Myers explains.

2. Rinse and groom regularly to remove allergens.

One easy way to help keep pollen and other allergens off your dog’s skin and prevent irritation is to rinse their paws when they come in from outside. Dr. Myers explains, “Other than fleas, there are other common allergens that can trigger symptoms in dogs, such as grasses, flower or tree pollen, dust mites, and mold spores.”

“These contact allergens can be removed from the body with regular grooming and wiping or rinsing your dog’s fur and paws. This is particularly important in the warmer months as dogs spend more time outside.”

3. Wash bedding, collars, and toys frequently.

Don’t forget about your dog’s bedding, blankets, and toys. These items can also hold onto allergens. Dr. Myers recommends washing dog beds, collars, and harnesses at 140 degrees Fahrenheit to remove allergens such as grass and mold spores.

4. Improve indoor air quality with filters/purifiers.

Air purifiers help people with allergies, and they can benefit your pooch as well. According to Dr. Myers, “Airborne allergens can be reduced with high-quality filters and air purifiers. Allergy symptoms are usually worse when more of the allergen is present, so regular cleaning around the home may provide some dogs with a little relief.”

5. Monitor pollen counts and adjust outdoor time.

Finally, many apps and websites can help you keep an eye on daily pollen counts in your area. Monitor the weather and limit your dog’s time outside, or keep windows closed, when pollen counts are particularly high.

When to Call a Vet

Vets can work with you to create an allergy management plan for your dog. Some dogs benefit from medication and/or allergy shots. Allowing symptoms to persist for too long can lead to secondary infections and misery for your dog. The sooner your dog receives much-needed relief, the better.