Does Your Dog Have Seasonal Allergies?
Did you know that dogs can get seasonal allergies, just like us? Seasonal allergies in dogs usually manifest as itchy skin, but there are other common reactions. If your pup has a runny nose, scratches excessively, or is just acting a bit off from their normal self, with the changing of the seasons, it could very well be allergies.
Here are the three most popular questions we get asked throughout the year as the seasons change.
What causes dogs to have seasonal allergies?
Allergies can occur for a number of reasons. It starts when they come into contact with something that they are sensitive to. Allergies occur in dogs, and in humans, when the immune system becomes less tolerant of an allergen. After that, any time the immune system encounters that allergen in the environment, it goes haywire with an inflammatory response that causes all or some of the reactions mentioned above.
Seasonal allergies means that there are certain factors that are only present during specific times of the year. Spring, for example is a big one for pups and people. There’s fresh pollen everywhere and you’re outside more than you were in the winter months.
How are seasonal allergies in dogs diagnosed?
We always defer to the vet when we get this question. They’ll be able to tell you exactly what your dog is experiencing, and they’ll be able to rule out any other possibility. They’ll also be able to give you the best and most accurate action plan for managing your pup’s allergies or whatever else that is going on.
Click here to check out some of our allergy relief products.
Does nutrition play a role in my dog’s allergies?
YES! The way your dog food is formulated will definitely play into how your dog responds to seasonal allergies. We recommend our recipes because they are always made fresh and from locally sourced ingredients. We’re always transparent about what is in our food because we want to ensure that your pup is getting the best source of nutrition possible.
Oftentimes, if a dog is suffering from excessive itching or scratching, constantly shakes his ears, always bites his paws, or has loose stool, he could be allergic to a particular ingredient in his dog food. What we see most often is that 9 times out of 10, a dog is allergic to chicken. For our sensitive dogs and dogs who suffer from allergies, we typically recommend our Select Cold Water fish recipe, or our Select New Zealand lamb recipe. Both options are easy on digestive systems, ideal for clearing up flaky skin, and more. Learn more about those recipes, view ingredients, and see real customer reviews on our Dry Dog Food page here.