Allergies in Dogs: Causes, Symptoms & How to Help Them

Posted on: March 5, 2025
Written by: Jackie Tan

Just like humans, dogs can have allergies, which means their immune system overreacts to things that are usually harmless. These triggers, called allergens, can come from food, the environment, or even fleas. In this article, we will learn about the common allergens and learn how to better care for our pets.

Skin allergies (allergic dermatitis) are one of the most common issues for dogs and cats, affecting about one in four dogs in Australia and slightly fewer cats.

Allergies can cause relentless, maddening itching, driving your dog to scratch and paw at the affected areas nonstop, until their skin is raw and inflamed. This constant discomfort keeps them awake at night, leaving them restless, miserable, and unable to enjoy life. It affects their mood, their energy, and their overall well-being—turning your happy pup into a frustrated and uncomfortable bundle of nerves.

Ear problems are also common in dogs with allergies. Their ears may first look red and dry, but if an infection develops, they can become smelly and moist.

Does your dog constantly scratch, lick their paws, or have red, irritated skin?

Ever had a blocked nose or itchy skin out of nowhere? Frustrating, right? Now imagine feeling that way but not being able to say a word! That’s what dogs go through when they have allergies. Don’t let your furry friend suffer in silence—know the signs and take action. Because a happy, itch-free pup means a happy you!

Common Types of Allergies in Dogs:

Environmental Allergies (Atopy):

Environmental allergies in dogs are triggered by substances in their surroundings. The most common causes include:

Pollen: Seasonal pollen from trees, grasses, and weeds can trigger allergic reactions in dogs, similar to hay fever in humans.
Dust Mites: Tiny insects that thrive in bedding, carpets, and furniture can cause allergic reactions when inhaled or come into contact with the skin.
Mould: Spores from mould and mildew that grow in damp areas can irritate a dog’s respiratory system or skin.

Food Allergies:

Can you guess what the top 9 food allergies are for dogs?
The nine leading causes of food allergies identified are milk, eggs, fish, shellfish, tree nuts, peanuts, wheat, soybeans, and sesame (Food Safety and Inspection Service, 2024)

Can Pets Develop Food Allergies Suddenly? A Vet Explains

Unfortunately, the answer is YES. Anicira (2024) notes that it can take 2-3 months for a dog to develop a food allergy, though in some cases, it may take much longer. This means that even if your pet has been on the same diet for a long time without issues, food allergies should still be considered as a possibility. Allergies can develop at any point, even after years of eating the same food.

Flea Allergies (Flea Allergy Dermatitis – FAD):

Even a single flea bite can trigger a reaction.

Flea allergy is a common condition in dogs, where a dog becomes hypersensitive to the saliva of fleas. Even a single flea bite can cause severe allergic reactions in these dogs. It’s one of the most common causes of itching and skin problems in pets.

Fun fact:
Can you guess how many eggs a female flea can lay in just one day?
Brace yourself – she can lay up to 50 eggs daily! Over her entire life cycle, that adds up to over 4500 eggs. It doesn’t take long for your pet and their surroundings to become infested. Keep an eye out, because those tiny pests can multiply quickly.

Contact Allergies:

Reactions to shampoos, grass, or cleaning products.

If your cleaning product or shampoo contains these items below then you should be careful! So always check before buying, or place these items away from your dog!

Ingredients to avoid and why?

Fragrances & Artificial Scents: Can cause respiratory issues and skin irritation.
Ammonia: May irritate the eyes, skin, and respiratory system.
Chlorine Bleach: Can cause skin burns and respiratory irritation.
Hydrogen Peroxide: Can irritate skin or cause digestive upset if ingested.
Sodium Lauryl Sulphate (SLS): May cause skin irritation, redness, or inflammation
Phthalates: Known to cause respiratory issues and skin irritation.
Formaldehyde: Can lead to coughing, sneezing, or skin rashes.
Quaternary Ammonium Compounds (Quats): Can irritate skin and cause breathing issues.
Glycol Ethers: May cause skin and eye irritation.
Vinegar & Citric Acid: Can cause skin redness or burning in sensitive dogs.
Grass allergies: in dogs are becoming increasingly prevalent. It is more common in spring and summer.

Fun fact:
Did you know that around 27.7% of dogs are allergic to grass?
That’s nearly 1 in 3 dogs, so it’s more common than you might think! If your pup is constantly scratching or sneezing, grass could be the culprit.

Is your dog itching and scratching?

Signs of allergies every pet parent should know

Can you spot the signs of allergies in your dog? The sooner you catch the symptoms, the sooner your pup can feel better and live their happiest, healthiest life.

Excessive itching, scratching, licking, or chewing paws	This is one of the most common signs of allergies in dogs. Dogs may constantly lick their paws, chew at their skin, or rub their face on furniture or the floor. They are not serious till it leads to painful ulcers and other infections.
Red, inflamed skin or hot spots.	Hot spots (moist, irritated skin patches) can develop due to constant licking or scratching. Affected areas may appear red, swollen, and sometimes oozing. They are mostly found on the paws, belly and ears. If left untreated, the exposed area is prone to secondary infection which can be serious.
Ear infections or frequent head shaking	These are also common sign of allergies. Vigorous head shaking can lead to ruptured blood vessels within a dog’s ear flap.
Runny eyes, sneezing, or respiratory issues	Allergic rhinitis is a common condition in dogs that causes inflammation in the nose, often affecting the nasal mucous membranes. If untreated, it can lead to serious health issues. Symptoms like laboured breathing, excessive panting, wheezing, or collapsing may signal a severe allergic reaction, requiring urgent veterinary care.
Digestive issues like vomiting or diarrhoea (common in food allergies)	If your dog is experiencing vomiting, diarrhoea, bloating, or excessive gas, it could be a sign of food allergies. Unlike food intolerances (which cause mild digestive upset), food allergies trigger an immune system response, leading to inflammation in the gut and other serious health issues.

Is your dog suffering from allergies?

How to spot the signs and getting a diagnosis

Veterinary exams and medical history: If you suspect your dog has allergies, a veterinary check-up is crucial. Your vet will perform a thorough examination, checking for redness, skin irritation, ear infections, and excessive itching. They’ll also ask key questions to help identify potential triggers.

What to expect at the vet?

Physical examination: The vet will inspect your dog’s skin, ears, paws, and coat for signs of allergies.
History & lifestyle assessment: Your vet will ask specific questions to pinpoint possible allergens.

Common questions your vet may ask:

When did the itching or symptoms first start?
Has there been any change in diet? (New food, treats, or supplements)
Is your dog primarily indoors or outdoors?
How often do you walk your dog?
Are the symptoms seasonal or year-round?
Has your dog had similar reactions before?
What kind of shampoo, cleaning products, or flea treatments do you use?

How to prepare for your vet visit

Keep a symptom diary, noting when and where symptoms occur.
Bring a list of foods, treats, and products your dog is exposed to.
Take pictures or videos of symptoms if they aren’t always present.
Being prepared helps your vet diagnose allergies faster and more accurately, so your pup can get relief sooner.

Elimination diets for dog food allergies: The key to identifying triggers

Food allergies in dogs can develop at any age, but they are most commonly seen in pets under 1 year old. However, allergies can appear unexpectedly at any time, even if a dog has been eating the same food for years. This often leaves pet owners confused when their dog suddenly develops symptoms like itchy skin, digestive issues, or chronic ear infections.

The most reliable way to diagnose a food allergy is through an elimination diet trial. This involves removing all currently fed foods and switching to a controlled diet for an extended period.

There are two main approaches:

Home-cooked diet: A home-cooked elimination diet should include a novel protein (one the dog has never eaten before) such as tilapia, salmon, duck, rabbit paired with a simple carbohydrate like sweet potatoes, oats, quinoa, or barley. However, these diets must be nutritionally balanced, and consulting a board-certified veterinary nutritionist is recommended before feeding a home-prepared diet long-term.
Prescription hypoallergenic diet: Alternatively, veterinarians often recommend prescription hypoallergenic diets, which are scientifically formulated to eliminate allergens while maintaining proper nutrition. Common options include Royal Canin Hypoallergenic or Hill’s Food Sensitivities Diet. These diets are designed to ensure the pet receives complete nutrition without exposure to common allergens.

The elimination diet should be followed for at least 8 to 12 weeks and a minimum of one month beyond the resolution of any skin infections. Throughout the trial, the pet should be monitored closely, with frequent veterinary check-ups to assess progress.

Once symptoms improve, a diet challenge is performed to confirm the allergy

This involves reintroducing the original diet or individual ingredients to see if symptoms return. If the dog has a food allergy, symptoms like itching, vomiting, diarrhoea, or ear infections will typically reappear within hours to two weeks. If a reaction occurs, the elimination diet should be resumed immediately. Once symptoms resolve again, ingredients can be reintroduced one at a time to identify the exact allergen.

By following a structured elimination diet and diet challenge, pet owners can accurately diagnose and manage food allergies, leading to a healthier and more comfortable life for their dogs.

Elimination diets for dog food allergies: The key to identifying triggers

For allergy testing (blood or skin tests)

One way to test for atopic dermatitis (atopy) is through a specific blood test. The collected sample is sent to a laboratory, where it is analysed to identify the most likely allergens triggering your pet’s condition. This test is typically recommended after a thorough consultation with your veterinarian to assess your pet’s symptoms and determine if allergy testing is necessary.

Intradermal Allergy Testing for Dogs

Intradermal allergy testing is considered the gold standard for diagnosing atopic dermatitis (environmental allergies) in dogs. This test helps identify specific allergens—such as pollen, dust mites, mould, or grass—that may be triggering your pet’s allergic reactions.

What to Expect?

Sedation: Because the procedure requires the dog to remain still, mild sedation is often used.
Clipping the Fur: A small area of fur, typically on the side or belly, is shaved to expose the skin.
Allergen Injection: Tiny amounts of common allergens are injected into the skin in a grid-like pattern.
Reaction Observation: After 15-30 minutes, the veterinarian examines the skin for redness, swelling, or raised bumps (similar to a human allergy skin test). A positive reaction indicates an allergic response to that specific substance.

Should you consider HESKA allergy testing and desensitisation?

If any of the following apply to your pet and family, HESKA allergy testing and desensitisation could be a great option to discuss with your vet.

Drug therapy isn’t effectively improving symptoms.
You want to reduce your pet’s reliance on allergy medications.
You’re looking to minimise the number of vets visits each year for skin issues.
You’re looking to minimise the number of vets visits each year for skin issues.

Vet answers: How to choose the best option for your dog’s needs

Comparison of Intradermal Testing vs. Blood Testing for Dog Allergies

Feature	Intradermal Testing (Skin Test)	Blood Testing (Serology Test)
Best for	Dogs witd moderate to severe environmental allergies, especially if considering allergy immunotderapy.	Dogs who cannot stop allergy medications or cannot undergo sedation.
How it Works	Small amounts of allergens are injected into tde skin, and reactions (redness/swelling) are observed.	A blood sample is taken and tested for allergen-specific antibodies.
Accuracy	More accurate (gold standard) as it directly measures skin response to allergens.	Less accurate (more false positives) since it measures antibodies, not actual allergic reactions.
Need for Sedation?	Yes, mild sedation is usually required to keep tde dog still.	No, only a simple blood draw is needed.
Need to Stop Allergy Medications?	Yes, for 2-4 weeks before testing to avoid false negatives.	No, dogs can stay on allergy medications.
Availability	Requires a veterinary dermatologist or a clinic witd specialised equipment.	Can be done at any general veterinary clinic.
Time to Results	Results are available witdin 15-30 minutes.	Results take several days to a week.
Helps witd Allergy Shots?	Yes, used to create a custom allergy shot (immunotderapy) plan.	Less reliable for allergy shot planning, but may still be helpful.
Cost	Typically more expensive due to sedation and specialised testing.	Typically less expensive and widely available.

Effective flea control: Protecting your dog at home and outdoors

Ever noticed your dog suddenly jump up from a nap or frantically chew near their tail? That could be a sign of flea allergy dermatitis (FAD). If your pup is constantly itching and losing fur, especially along the back and tail base, fleas might be the culprit. And if left untreated, the irritation won’t stop there—it can spread all over the body, even to the head and neck!

Don’t let fleas take over—protect your pup with flea prevention today.

How do vets diagnose flea allergies in dogs?

Flea allergies are one of the most common causes of itching and skin irritation in dogs. Even a single flea bite can trigger an intense allergic reaction in sensitive pets. Because fleas can be difficult to spot—especially in well-groomed dogs or those that lick or scratch excessively—veterinarians use several methods to diagnose flea allergy dermatitis (FAD).

Flea Comb Test

One of the simplest and most effective diagnostic tools is the flea comb test. Your vet will use a fine-toothed flea comb to check for signs of fleas or flea dirt (flea poo). Flea dirt looks like tiny black specks but turns red when placed on a damp paper towel—this is digested blood from the flea’s meal.

However, finding no fleas or flea dirt doesn’t necessarily mean your dog isn’t affected. Some dogs are so sensitive that they react to just one or two flea bites, meaning the culprit may no longer be present. That’s why vets consider the overall symptoms, location of itching (especially around the lower back, tail base, and hind legs), and response to flea treatments when making a diagnosis.

If flea allergy dermatitis is suspected, your vet will likely recommend strict flea control measures for all pets in the household, along with environmental treatments to eliminate fleas at every life stage. Early intervention is key to keeping your dog comfortable and preventing further skin issues.

How to treat dog allergies and exploring different treatment options for dog allergies

Medication – Antihistamines, steroids, or allergy shots.

Antihistamines help to control itching in approximately 1/4 to 1/3 of dogs with skin allergies, especially if started when skin itch is still mild.

Antihistamines are frequently used to relieve itching and allergic symptoms in dogs, but proper dosing should always be discussed with a veterinarian.

Common Antihistamines for Dogs

Cetirizine (Zyrtec): A widely used and safe antihistamine that helps reduce itching and inflammation.
Loratadine (Claratyne): Similar to cetirizine, it effectively alleviates allergy symptoms.
Fexofenadine (Telfast): Less commonly used in dogs but may be prescribed. However, it should be avoided if the dog is on antifungal or certain antibiotic treatments.

Prescription Allergy Medications

For more severe cases, veterinarians may recommend stronger medications:

Corticosteroids: Effective for reducing inflammation and itching but can cause side effects like increased thirst, appetite, and urination, especially with long-term use. Topical corticosteroid creams may be a safer alternative with fewer side effects.
Apoquel: A daily oral tablet that provides fast itch relief with minimal side effects, though it can be costly.
Cytopoint: An injectable treatment that helps control itching for 4-8 weeks with very few adverse effects.
Immunosuppressive Medications (e.g., Atopica): Used for severe allergies by modulating the immune system, but they can be expensive and may have potential side effects.

Each treatment option varies in effectiveness, cost, and potential risks, so consulting a veterinarian is crucial to determine the best approach for a dog’s specific condition.

Diet Changes: Switching to a Hypoallergenic Diet for Dogs

If your dog has food allergies or sensitivities, switching to a hypoallergenic diet can help manage symptoms like itchy skin, ear infections, and digestive issues. These diets are specially formulated to reduce the risk of allergic reactions by using proteins that are either broken down into tiny particles (hydrolysed) or sourced from less common ingredients (novel proteins).

Types of Hypoallergenic Diets:

Hydrolysed Protein Diets

These diets use proteins that have been broken down into very small pieces, making them less likely to trigger an immune reaction.
Ideal for dogs with suspected food allergies, chronic itching, or digestive issues.
Often enriched with omega-3 fatty acids to help reduce inflammation and support skin health.

Novel Protein Diets

These diets use uncommon protein sources, such as duck, venison, or salmon, to reduce the chance of an allergic reaction.
Good for dogs that may react to common proteins like chicken or beef.
Often free from common allergens like wheat, soy, and dairy.

Important Feeding Guidelines

For the best results, a hypoallergenic diet should be fed exclusively for 8–12 weeks. This means no treats, table scraps, or flavoured medications during the trial period. If your dog’s symptoms improve, this can confirm a food allergy, and your vet can help guide you on long-term diet choices.

If you’re unsure which diet is best for your dog, consult your vet to determine the right option based on their symptoms and medical history.

Managing Environmental Allergies in Dogs

If your dog suffers from environmental allergies, simple changes at home can help reduce exposure to allergens and keep them more comfortable.

Reduce Indoor Allergens

Vacuum and dust regularly to remove pollen, dust mites, and pet dander.
Use an air purifier to filter out airborne allergens.
Wash your dog’s bedding, blankets, and toys frequently to minimise allergen buildup.

Limit Outdoor Exposure

During high-pollen seasons, avoid walking your dog in grassy or heavily wooded areas.
After outdoor activities, wipe down their paws and coat with a damp cloth or pet-safe wipes to remove allergens.
Bathing your dog with a gentle, vet-approved shampoo can also help soothe irritated skin and wash away allergens.

Flea Prevention – Year-round flea treatments to keep your dog protected

The key to treating Flea Allergy Dermatitis (FAD) is eliminating fleas from your dog, all pets in the household, and the environment. Without full flea control, reinfestation can occur, causing ongoing discomfort. Oral flea medications like Spinosad can kill fleas quickly, providing relief within 30-60 minutes. For long-term protection, use a flea prevention product that lasts 30-90 days. After fleas are gone, bathe your dog with a vet-prescribed medicated shampoo or oatmeal-based shampoo to soothe irritated skin. Ongoing flea prevention and skin care are essential to keep your dog comfortable and flea-free.

Long term flea control: Picking a prevention plan for your dog

Flea treatment options for dogs come in various forms, including oral chews, tablets, topical spot-on treatments, collars, sprays, and shampoos.

Oral Flea Preventatives: NexGard Spectra is a palatable beef-flavoured chew that provides effective flea prevention. Other reputable brands include Sentinel and Comfortis, which also offer reliable flea control in an easy-to-administer oral form.
Topical Treatments: Spot-on treatments such as Advocate, Bravecto, Activyl, and Revolution are applied directly to the skin at the back of the neck, providing long-lasting protection against fleas and other parasites.
Flea Collars: For pet owners who prefer a low-maintenance option, flea collars offer extended protection, reducing the need for frequent reapplication.
Shampoos and Sprays: Flea shampoos can provide immediate relief by eliminating existing fleas, although they are often used as a supplementary treatment rather than a primary preventive measure.

Consult your veterinarian to determine the most suitable flea control method for your dog’s lifestyle and health needs.

Natural Remedies & Home Care Tips

Oatmeal Baths

Oatmeal acts as a skin protectant with anti-inflammatory properties, soothing itchy and irritated skin. To prepare an oatmeal bath, grind one cup of plain oatmeal into a fine powder and add it to warm bathwater. Let your dog soak for about ten minutes, ensuring the mixture avoids their eyes and face. After the bath, rinse thoroughly and gently towel dry your pet.

Coconut Oil

Rich in healthy fats, coconut oil offers various benefits for dogs. When applied topically, it can help alleviate itchiness, hot spots, and inflammation. Massaging it into the skin may provide relief from constant licking or biting, and applying it as a lotion can soothe sore footpads.

Apple cider vinegar

Apple cider vinegar possesses natural anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties. When diluted with equal parts water, it can be applied topically to soothe irritated skin caused by allergies, helping to reduce itching and inflammation. However, it’s important to use it cautiously and consult a veterinarian to ensure it’s safe for your dog, especially if there are open wounds or sores.

Can Pet Insurance Cover Allergy Treatments?

We all want to provide the best care for our pets, and sometimes that means managing unexpected health issues like skin conditions. These issues often require multiple vet visits, tests, and treatments, which can quickly add up. For example, blood allergy testing can cost around $160, while intradermal testing can range from $300 to $500, excluding consultation fees.

Fortunately, many pet insurance plans cover blood and intradermal allergy testing under illness coverage, as long as the condition isn’t pre-existing or excluded. Since dogs with skin allergies often require long-term medication throughout their lives, the costs can continue to rise. Having pet insurance can help to alleviate this financial burden, ensuring your dog gets the care they need without the constant worry of mounting expenses.

Getting the right pet insurance for allergy-prone dogs

If your dog has allergies or is at risk of developing them, starting your pet insurance policy early can be a key to maximising coverage. Many insurers don’t cover pre-existing conditions, so by taking out a pet insurance cover before symptoms appear, you could have financial support for future treatments.

When choosing a policy, consider:

Coverage limits: Make sure the annual benefit limit coverage is high enough to handle long-term allergy treatments, including medications, specialist visits, and allergy testing.
Ongoing care: Check if the policy covers chronic conditions, as allergies often require lifelong management.
Treatment options: Ensure coverage includes diagnostic tests, prescription diets, immunotherapy, and skin treatments, which are common for allergic dogs.

By planning ahead, you can ensure your dog gets the best possible care without unexpected financial stress. If you’re unsure about coverage details, talk to your vet and insurance provider to find the best fit for your pet’s needs.

Why early pet insurance coverage matters for dogs with allergies

If you’re considering pet insurance for your dog, it could be best to start as early as possible—especially if allergies run in their breed or family history. While your dog may be healthy now, allergies can develop at any age, and once symptoms appear, they may be classified as a pre-existing condition. This means future treatments, medications, or allergy-related vet visits might not be covered if your dog wasn’t insured beforehand.

By taking out a pet insurance cover early, you could:

Maximise coverage, if taken before symptoms appear: Many insurers don’t cover pre-existing conditions, so early coverage helps protect against unexpected allergy-related costs.
Obtain ongoing coverage as your pet ages: Allergies often require ongoing management, including vet visits, medications, and specialised diets, as part of long-term care.
Reduce out of pocket costs: Allergy testing, immunotherapy, and prescription treatments can add up over time. Insurance can help cover these expenses, so you’re not left paying everything out of pocket.

Getting insurance while your dog is young and healthy gives you peace of mind, knowing you’ll have the support needed if allergies or other health issues arise down the track.

When to take your dog to the vet for allergies

If your dog has allergies, knowing when to seek veterinary care is important for keeping them comfortable and healthy. While mild itching or occasional sneezing may not be a cause for concern, some symptoms require professional attention.

See a vet if your dog has:

Persistent or severe symptoms: If itching, licking, or redness doesn’t improve or worsens over time.
Signs of infection: Open sores, hair loss, or excessive redness can indicate a secondary skin infection that needs treatment.
Swelling or breathing issues: If your dog has facial swelling, hives, or trouble breathing, seek urgent veterinary care as this could be a serious allergic reaction.

Early treatment can prevent discomfort and stop allergies from becoming a bigger issue. If you’re unsure whether your dog’s symptoms need vet care, it’s always best to check in with your veterinarian for guidance.

Type of Reaction	Signs and Symptoms
Mild Allergic Reaction	Sudden onset or increased itchiness (scratching, licking, chewing, shaking of ears) Itchy or non-itchy hives, welts, bumps, or rash Generalised redness of the skin Runny eyes Sneezing or runny nose Itchy ears and ear infections Mild facial swelling (around eyes, muzzle, or near ears) Feeling hot to the touch
Severe Allergic Reaction	Vomiting Diarrhoea Pale gums Severe facial swelling Noisy or difficulty breathing (especially if mouth or throat is swollen) Abnormal heart rate Sudden weakness and collapse Tremors Loss of consciousness Cardiac arrest

If your dog is showing signs of an allergic reaction or you suspect they may be, contact your vet immediately. Never wait to see if their symptoms improve. Even mild allergies like hives or itchiness can escalate rapidly to life-threatening anaphylaxis, particularly with repeated exposure to allergens. Time is critical—don’t delay seeking help.

Common Misconceptions About Allergies in Dogs

“Dogs Can Only Be Allergic to Food”
Truth: Food allergies are common, but environmental allergies (dust mites, pollen, mould, grass) and flea allergies are actually more common.
“Switching to Grain-Free Food Will Solve Allergies”
Truth: Most food allergies in dogs are caused by proteins (e.g., chicken, beef, dairy) rather than grains. Switching to a novel protein or hydrolysed diet is more effective than just going grain-free.
“Allergic Dogs Just Have Itchy Skin”
Truth: While itching is common, allergies can also cause ear infections, paw licking, chronic diarrhoea, sneezing, watery eyes, and skin infections.
“Dogs Outgrow Their Allergies”
Truth: Unlike some human allergies, dog allergies tend to persist for life and require long-term management, rather than going away over time.
“Bathing My Dog Less Will Prevent Dry, Itchy Skin”
Truth: Regular bathing (with a vet-recommended shampoo) actually helps remove allergens from the skin, soothes irritation, and reduces flare-ups.
“Antihistamines Work as Well as They Do for People”
Truth: Antihistamines like Benadryl may help mild allergies, but are often ineffective for moderate to severe cases. Veterinary treatments like Apoquel, Cytopoint, or allergy immunotherapy are often needed for better relief.
“Steroids Are the Best Long-Term Solution”
Truth: While steroids can provide fast relief, they have serious side effects when used long-term (e.g., weight gain, diabetes, immune suppression). Safer, long-term allergy management options include allergy testing, immunotherapy, or prescription allergy meds.
“Flea Allergies Only Happen If I See Fleas”
Truth: Dogs with flea allergy dermatitis (FAD) could react to just a single flea bite—even if you don’t see fleas, your dog could still be suffering. Year-round flea prevention is essential.
“Allergy Testing Isn’t Necessary”
Truth: Allergy testing helps identify specific triggers (e.g., pollen, dust mites, foods), allowing for more targeted treatment, like allergy immunotherapy (desensitisation).
“Pet Insurance Won’t Cover Allergies”
Truth: Many pet insurance plans cover allergy testing and treatment, but it’s important to take out a pet insurance cover early before symptoms appear to avoid it being classified as a pre-existing condition.

If you’re concerned about your dog’s allergies, speak with your vet and explore pet insurance options to help cover allergy-related vet visits and treatments.

Helping Your Dog Live Comfortably with Allergies

Managing your dog’s allergies can feel overwhelming, but with the right approach, you can help keep them comfortable and happy. Here’s what every pet parent should know:

1. Recognize the Symptoms

Allergies in dogs often show up as itching, hives, ear infections, watery eyes, sneezing, or swelling. In more severe cases, symptoms can include vomiting, breathing difficulties, or even collapse, which require emergency care.

2. Identify the Triggers

Allergies can be triggered by food, environmental factors (pollen, dust mites, mould), or flea bites. Your vet can help determine the cause through testing or elimination trials.

3. Seek Veterinary Care Early

If you suspect allergies, don’t wait—symptoms can worsen quickly. A vet visit can help pinpoint the cause and start treatment before your dog’s discomfort escalates.

4. Long-Term Management is Key

Some dogs need ongoing treatment, including allergy medications, special diets, or immunotherapy (allergy shots). Regular vet check-ups ensure symptoms stay under control.

5. Flea Prevention is Essential

Many dogs have flea allergy dermatitis, meaning even one flea bite can cause intense itching. Year-round flea control is crucial for allergy-prone dogs.

6. Pet Insurance Can Help with Costs

Allergy treatments can be expensive, especially long-term care. Pet insurance can cover allergy-related vet visits, medications, and testing, but it could be best to take out a pet insurance cover, before symptoms start to avoid exclusions for pre-existing conditions.

7. Watch for Severe Reactions

Allergic reactions can sometimes become life-threatening. If your dog experiences difficulty breathing, swelling, or collapse, seek emergency vet care immediately.

8. Reduce Environmental Allergens

Simple changes like frequent cleaning, washing your dog’s bedding, and avoiding high-pollen areas can help minimise allergy flare-ups.

9. Be Prepared for Long-Term Treatment

Some dogs require daily medication, allergy shots, or prescription diets to keep symptoms under control. Working with your vet to find the right plan will help your dog live a happy, itch-free life.

By staying proactive and working with your vet, you can ensure your dog gets the relief they need to live comfortably despite allergies.

If you’re concerned about allergies in your pup, speak with your vet and explore pet insurance options to help cover allergy-related vet visits and treatments.

Frequently Asked Questions About Dog Allergies

What are the most common causes of allergies in dogs?

Dogs can be allergic to a variety of things, including environmental allergens like pollen, dust mites, mould, and grass. Food allergies are also common, with ingredients such as chicken, beef, dairy, soy, and wheat being frequent triggers. Fleas and flea bites can cause flea allergy dermatitis (FAD), leading to severe itching and discomfort. Household products like cleaning agents, fragrances, and detergents can also irritate sensitive dogs.

How do I know if my dog has allergies?

Common signs of allergies in dogs include itchy skin, leading to excessive scratching, licking, chewing, or biting at their paws. Recurrent ear infections, red or inflamed skin, and hair loss or hotspots may also indicate allergies. If your dog experiences chronic diarrhoea or vomiting, food allergies could be the cause. Environmental allergies often result in watery eyes, sneezing, or seasonal flare-ups.

Can allergies develop later in life?

Yes. Dogs can develop allergies at any stage, even if they had no issues as puppies.

How are allergies diagnosed?

Food allergies are diagnosed through an elimination diet trial, where your dog eats a hypoallergenic diet for 8-12 weeks to determine if symptoms improve. Environmental allergies are usually identified through blood tests or intradermal skin testing performed by a vet. Flea allergies are typically diagnosed based on symptoms and response to flea treatment.

Can I cure my dog’s allergies?

There is no cure for allergies, but they can be effectively managed with the right treatment plan. Allergy medications such as Apoquel, Cytopoint, or antihistamines can help control itching. Regular medicated or soothing baths can reduce skin irritation. If food allergies are the cause, a strict hypoallergenic diet can minimise symptoms. Allergy immunotherapy (desensitisation shots) may also help reduce long-term allergic reactions.

What’s the best treatment for my dog’s allergies?

The best treatment depends on the type of allergy. Food allergies are managed with a prescription hypoallergenic diet. Environmental allergies may require Apoquel, Cytopoint, or allergy shots to control symptoms. Flea allergies require strict, year-round flea prevention to prevent flare-ups.

Can I give my dog antihistamines like Benadryl?

Antihistamines can help some dogs, but they are not effective for all. If they don’t work, your vet may recommend stronger treatments like Apoquel, Cytopoint, or steroids to provide better relief.

Will bathing help my dog’s allergies?

Yes! Regular baths, one to two times per week, with a vet-recommended allergy shampoo can help remove allergens from your dog’s skin and reduce irritation. Look for shampoos with oatmeal, pramoxine, or chlorhexidine for soothing relief.

Can pet insurance cover allergy treatments?

Yes, if you take out a pet insurance cover before symptoms appear. Many pet insurance plans cover allergy testing, medication, and immunotherapy. However, if allergies are diagnosed before getting coverage, they may be considered a pre-existing condition and excluded from coverage.

Concerned About Your Dog’s Allergies?

If you suspect your dog has allergies, speak with your vet to determine the best treatment plan. Pet insurance can also help manage the cost of allergy-related vet visits and treatments, so consider taking out a pet insurance cover early to maximise your coverage.

Jackie | Veterinary consultant

Jackie has a passion for small animal care, particularly in orthopaedics, nutrition, and dermatology. Jackie completed his Doctor of Veterinary Medicine at the University of Sydney and has hands-on experience in both general practice and emergency settings, caring for a wide range of patients. His keen interest in innovative treatment options led him to research osteoarthritis therapies, exploring affordable alternatives to surgery such as low-level laser therapy and platelet-rich plasma injections. Jackie is also passionate about making veterinary care more accessible, sparking his curiosity about the role of pet insurance in supporting pet owners.

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Allergies in Dogs: Causes, Symptoms & How to Help Them

Contents

Common Types of Allergies in Dogs:

Ingredients to avoid and why?

Is your dog itching and scratching?

Is your dog suffering from allergies?

Elimination diets for dog food allergies: The key to identifying triggers

Elimination diets for dog food allergies: The key to identifying triggers

Vet answers: How to choose the best option for your dog’s needs

Effective flea control: Protecting your dog at home and outdoors

How to treat dog allergies and exploring different treatment options for dog allergies

Natural Remedies & Home Care Tips

Can Pet Insurance Cover Allergy Treatments?

When to take your dog to the vet for allergies

Common Misconceptions About Allergies in Dogs

Helping Your Dog Live Comfortably with Allergies

Frequently Asked Questions About Dog Allergies

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