Can Dogs get Hayfever?

Ah hay fever, the plague of spring and summer. If you are struggling with itchy eyes and a streaming nose you have my empathy. The sneezing season can be a challenge to deal with, but have you ever wondered if dogs can suffer from hay fever too?

The answer is sadly yes. So here is all you need to know about dogs and hay fever.

What is hay fever?

Hay fever (sometimes described as an environmental allergy) is caused by an allergy to pollen which then penetrates the skin and causes a reaction. Pollen will fluctuate across the year and be caused by many natural sources.

Tree pollen is typically most prevalent from late March to mid-May, grass pollen from mid-May to late July and weed pollen from early July until September. Most dogs will exhibit symptoms early on, but hay fever can be triggered at any age.

What are the symptoms of dog hay fever?

Much like humans, not all dogs will suffer from hay fever, with the loose estimate being around 10%. Allergies to parasites are much more common in our pets.

The symptoms of hay fever present differently in dogs to humans. The most obvious sign skin irritation, resulting in sore patches across the skin and fur loss.

Other signs to look out for:

• Irritation around the paws, armpits, groin, legs, ears, eyes and mouth.

• Frequent sneezing

• Red itchy eyes

• Rashes on their body, particularly face and paws.

If you spot any of these symptoms get your furry friend to your vet as soon as you can. These can be signs of an environmental allergy like hay fever but could also be a sign of another problem.

How do I manage my dog's hayfever?

Sadly, hay fever can’t be cured, however the symptoms can be managed to help keep your furry friend comfortable. If the discomfort is persistent, speak to your vet about the options for easing the symptoms.

Treatments can include medicated sprays, shampoos, creams, eye drops, and in severe cases injections and medication. Do not give your dog human hay fever medication without guidance from your vet.

Outside of vet intervention, there are other general ways to manage your dog’s discomfort.

• Wash your dog’s bedding regularly and keep up with vacuuming.

• Walk early in the morning or late at night when the pollen count is lower.

• After walkies, gently wipe your dog’s face, fur and paws to remove any lingering pollen.

• Keep most of your grass in the garden short and reduce your dog’s time in the grass.

Remember itchy irritable skin is more commonly a sign of parasite infection. Keep on top of your dog’s routine parasite treatment to reduce the risk of Flea Allergy Dermatitis and general skin irritation. If you have had your dog's allergy diagnosed, there is some more specific advice depending on the pollen that causes a problem.

Tree Pollen Allergies

If your canine companion is allergic to tree pollen, try the following:

• Keep doors and windows closed to reduce pollen coming inside.

• When it’s windy and dry, reduce your dog’s walks and time in the garden.

• Check forecasts to help predict which days will be more triggering.

Grass Pollen Allergies

For grass pollen allergies, try the following:

• Mow your grass and lawn more regularly. Keeping grass short can help reduce symptoms but remember to keep your furry friend inside while you mow. During mowing pollen is thrown up into the air and risks getting onto your dog’s fur.

• Pop your dog on a lead in grassy fields and other areas, this reduces the risk of rolling and getting pollen in the coat.

Weed Pollen Allergies

To manage your dog weed allergies, try the following:

• Clear your garden and outdoor areas of overgrown weeds.

• Plan your walks carefully and avoid areas with lots of weeds and plants.

• Keep windows closed. If you do need to keep your dog entertained inside during high pollen days, there is a lot you can do to reduce boredom. Watch our video on Interactive Feeding. Or check out our 5 Easy Enrichment Games video.