Warmer temperatures are a welcome respite from the cold of winter. But with warmer temperatures also come allergies, even for our dogs. Dog allergies are very common and a frequent reason why dogs go to the vet. If your dog is scratching and uncomfortable, you’re probably wondering: what can I give my dog for allergies?
While allergies are not curable, they can be effectively managed with a variety of allergy medications for dogs and other remedies.
After a brief dog allergy overview, we’ll dig into how to treat and manage your pup’s allergies to keep them comfortable and happy.
Diagnosing Dog Allergies: Why The Type Matters
Allergies are an overreaction of the immune system to an allergen, a substance that triggers an allergic reaction. Dog allergies are classified into three main types:
- Chronic allergies caused by external triggers (like pollen, dust, etc.)
- Flea allergies
- Food allergies (usually to animal proteins, such as chicken or beef)
It is not uncommon for a dog to have multiple allergies.
Diagnosing the specific type of allergy is necessary to determine the most appropriate treatment plan. Suppose you suspect your dog has an allergy. In that case, your veterinarian will perform a physical exam, get a detailed history from you, and, if necessary, perform diagnostic testing to identify the allergy.
Allergies due to external allergens are diagnosed through a skin test, which identifies the specific substances to which a dog is allergic, such as pollen or dust.
Diagnosing a flea allergy can usually be done using physical exam results. Dogs with flea allergies typically have hair loss at the rear end and base of their tail, as well as various skin lesions (e.g., crusts, redness) from constant scratching. Fleas or flea dirt may be noticeable during the physical exam.
Food allergies are challenging and time-consuming to diagnose because it can take time to identify the exact ‘culprit’ food allergen. Dogs must undergo a food elimination trial, in which they eat only a limited-ingredient diet for 8 to 12 weeks, then get re-challenged with their original diet.
Diagnosing an allergy in dogs also involves ruling out other medical conditions with similar symptoms.
Symptoms of Dog Allergies
Symptoms of dog allergies often appear months to years after repeated exposure to an allergen. Allergies in dogs tend to worsen with age, meaning that symptoms may be more pronounced over time.
Here is a list of allergy symptoms in dogs:
- Itchy skin
- Hives
- Vomiting and diarrhea
- Red, inflamed skin
- Sneezing
- Frequent licking of the skin
- Swelling of the face, throat, and eyes
- Face rubbing
- Recurrent ear infections
- Hair loss
- Scratching
- Itchy, runny nose
- Skin rashes
For dog allergy treatment, the focus is on managing the symptoms.
Why It’s Important to Get Dog Allergies Under Control
If you deal with allergies, you know how miserable allergy season can be. Well, it’s the same for our dogs. Allergies can make dogs feel itchy and icky. If not well-controlled, allergy symptoms can significantly and negatively impact a dog’s quality of life.
In addition, because allergies often cause itchy skin, constant scratching can lead to more significant skin problems, such as skin infections that may require antibiotic treatment.
Controlling your dog’s allergies will not only give your dog immense allergy relief but also minimize the risk of bigger health problems.
What to Give a Dog for Allergies: Medication & Treatment Options
By now, you may be asking yourself, what can I give my dog for allergies and itching? We’re glad you asked!
Allergy treatment depends on the type and severity of the allergy and may require a long-term commitment.
Always work with your veterinarian to develop the most effective and practical treatment plan for you and your dog. Please note that the treatment plan may need to be adjusted over time based on your dog’s response.
We’ll break down treatment options into a few categories.
Prescription Medications for Dog Allergies
Several prescription medications are available to manage dog allergies. Here are some options according to allergy type:
For General Allergies
Apoquel®: Apoquel is an oral medication that relieves itchiness and inflammation. It is fast-acting, taking effect within 4 hours. Apoquel works by blocking the transmission of the itch signal from neurons in the skin to the brain. Blocking this transmission interrupts the signal to start scratching.
Cytopoint®: Cytopoint is a subcutaneous (under the skin) injection that stops itching. It’s given once every 1 to 2 months. Like Apoquel, Cytopoint breaks the signals that trigger itching and scratching.
Prednisone: Prednisone is a steroid that relieves inflammation. Although very effective as an anti-inflammatory, steroids should not be given long-term because of the risk of side effects, such as poor wound healing ability.
For Flea Allergies
Treatment with a veterinarian-prescribed flea control product is crucial for managing flea allergies in dogs. There are many options available in topical or oral formulations.
Advantage®: Advantage is applied to the skin between the shoulder blades once a month to kill and prevent multiple life stages of fleas and chewing lice. It starts working within 12 hours of application.
Revolution®: Revolution is also a monthly topical flea control product that also protects against ticks, heartworms, and mites.
NexGard®: NexGard is a monthly oral flea control medication that kills fleas and ticks.
Over-the-Counter Dog Allergy Medications
Dog allergies can also be addressed with over-the-counter (OTC) human medications. However, to prevent overdoses and other harmful side effects, these antihistamine OTC medications must be given only under the guidance of your vet. These include:
- Zyrtec
- Claritin
If your vet recommends one of these antihistamines, they will instruct you on the appropriate dosage for your dog.
Other Dog Allergy Treatment Options
In addition to prescription and OTC medications, other treatment options are available to manage dog allergies.
Allergy Shots
Dog allergy shots are used for long-term management of allergies caused by external triggers. They contain the specific allergen(s) to which a dog is allergic. These shots increase a dog’s tolerance to an allergen, meaning that their immune system will be less sensitive and reactive to it.
Your vet will determine the dosage and frequency for the allergy shots. Be aware that additional medications may be necessary to control allergy flare-ups between treatments. Also, allergy shots can take up to 6 months to be effective.
Hypoallergenic Diet
Hypoallergenic diets offer long-term management of food allergies. For example, if your dog is allergic to beef, the hypoallergenic diet would contain an alternative, novel source of protein, such as duck or kangaroo. Your veterinarian can recommend hypoallergenic diets after determining which food your dog is allergic to.
Are There Home Remedies for Dog Allergies?
A quick internet search will give you seemingly endless suggestions for what you can give your dog for allergies at home. Some of them are credible, while others are less so.
Hypoallergenic shampoos are a credible home remedy for dog allergies. They are gentle on the skin and are free of potential skin irritants, such as strong fragrances. Hypoallergenic shampoos also contain ingredients that soothe and moisturize the skin, such as aloe and oatmeal.
Fish oil is also recommended for allergies. It has powerful anti-inflammatory properties, making it ideal for reducing inflammation from allergies. Your vet can recommend a specific fish oil for your dog.
Apple cider vinegar has been touted as a treatment for allergies to relieve itchy skin and kill fleas, but there is no scientific evidence to support these claims. It is acidic, which can irritate skin that is already inflamed because of allergies. In addition, apple cider vinegar does not kill or repel fleas. Additionally, ingesting apple cider vinegar can cause digestive upset in dogs.
Of these home remedies, hypoallergenic shampoos and fish oil are the safest and most effective for managing dog allergies.
Other Ways to Help Your Dog’s Allergies
Managing allergies is also about managing your dog’s home environment, especially for general allergies and flea allergies. Here are a few strategies to manage these allergy types:
- Vacuum frequently. Pay special attention to nooks, crannies, and corners where fleas like to hide.
- Wash your dog’s bedding and plush toys. Do this frequently in hot water to kill fleas.
- Use an air purifier. Air purifiers help remove allergens like dust from the air.
The Importance of Trial & Error When Managing Dog Allergies
Managing your dog’s allergies will likely require some trial and error. Because allergies can change as dogs age and dogs may have multiple allergies, your dog’s treatment regimen won’t be the same from start to finish.
Allergy management requires patience and commitment. Your dog’s allergies didn’t develop overnight, so controlling them will also take time.
Monitor your dog’s allergy symptoms closely for signs of improvement or worsening. If necessary, your vet will adjust the treatment plan accordingly. They may recommend changing the dosage or trying an alternative medication.
We get it. Allergies in dogs can be frustrating and extremely challenging to manage. Work closely with your vet to help your dog get the allergy relief they need.
