Allergies in people often cause sneezing and congestion, but our dogs experience allergies differently. If your dog is constantly itchy, licking, scratching, and/or losing hair—these can be signs of allergic reactions or skin disease caused by an allergy. Working with your veterinarian can help find the cause and curb the symptoms before they worsen. The most common signs of allergies in dogs are itchiness, skin, and ear infections.  

Types of Allergies  

Dogs can be allergic to many things, including food, parasites, and elements in their environment. Working step by step with your veterinarian to identify the underlying cause of the allergy is key for long-term control. For a quick overview of the signs and symptoms of dermatological issues, check out our dermatology information page.  

Parasites  

Fleas, ticks, Fleas, ticks, and mites can all be easily picked up by dogs, even if they are a pup that only spends time in your yard. These bugs can be troublesome to any dog with their ability to transmit disease and cause very itchy dogs. Dogs with a flea allergy are even more sensitive to these parasites; just one bite from a single flea can lead to an allergic reaction. There are many great options for parasite prevention, and your veterinarian can discuss an ideal option for your dog and their lifestyle to relieve them from constantly itching. Intestinal parasites can also cause allergies in dogs. Which is another reason your vet may want to test their stool. 

Food  

Many dogs do great with a good quality food, but some dogs can develop a sensitivity to ingredients in the foods. Allergies to food sources can develop at any point in a dog’s life, occurring suddenly or progressing slowly over time. One of the most common culprits is the protein source in the food (allergies to grains are less common in dogs).  

While working through your dog’s allergies, please be sure to tell your veterinary team about any treats, people food, or extra snacks your dog may receive so nothing is missing. If a new food is recommended, be sure to only feed the food as planned and do not change the type of food unless advised by your veterinary team.  

When your dog is constantly itchy, keeping close track of their food and ingredients can help in discovering if there is a food allergy present and lead to relief. 

Environment 

Pollen, grass, mold, and even human dander can trigger allergies in dogs. Instead of being stuffy, most dogs get super itchy. Depending on the severity of your dog’s symptoms, your doctor may recommend topical treatments such as bathing with a special shampoo to soothe and treat your dog’s itchy skin, or skin allergy testing to help identify the most important allergens for which to avoid. We also have many medications to help your dog become more comfortable, including oral and injectable therapies. 

If your dog has changes in hair color, thinning or patchy hair loss, or is licking and/or scratching, schedule an appointment with a veterinarian near you. 

One of the first steps is identifying and treating any underlying infection. To do this, your veterinarian may recommend a skin scrape to check for mites, a cytology to look for bacteria and yeast under the microscope, or even a culture to identify fungal infections like ringworm. It is essential that we eliminate infections completely, or the infection may continue to persist, bringing the itch with it.  

Please call your veterinary team if your dog’s skin changes, the symptoms of itching or allergies worsen, or before giving any new foods or medications. With some investigating, persistence, and tailored treatment, we can help your dog live more comfortably and finally beat the allergy itch.  

Book an Appointment Today 

Beyond identifying and treating the specific cause of your dog’s itchiness, there are several general tips and strategies that can help manage and reduce your dog’s discomfort: 

Regular Grooming 

Keeping your dog’s coat clean and well-groomed can help reduce the presence of allergens and parasites. Regular brushing helps remove loose fur and dirt, and bathing with a hypoallergenic shampoo can soothe irritated skin. 

Healthy Diet 

Ensure your dog is on a balanced, high-quality diet that meets their nutritional needs. Sometimes, adding supplements like omega-3 fatty acids can improve skin health and reduce inflammation. Talk to your veterinarian about specific supplement recommendations.  

Environmental Control 

Minimize your dog’s exposure to known environmental allergens. This might include keeping your home clean and free of dust, using air purifiers, and washing your dog’s bedding regularly.  

Hydration 

Make sure your dog has access to plenty of fresh water. Proper hydration is essential for maintaining healthy skin and coat.  

Comfortable Living Space 

Provide a comfortable and clean-living environment for your dog. Soft bedding and a stress-free atmosphere can help reduce the urge to scratch and lick.   

Regular Vet Check-ups 

Regular veterinary visits are crucial for monitoring your dog’s health and catching any issues early. Your vet can provide ongoing advice and adjust treatments as needed. There are many medications that veterinarians can offer to help control allergies including testing for an underlying cause. 

Avoid Over-the-Counter Medications 

Never give your dog over-the-counter medications without consulting your veterinarian. Some human medications can be toxic to dogs and may worsen their condition.  

Behavioral Enrichment 

Sometimes, dogs scratch or lick out of boredom or anxiety. Providing plenty of mental and physical stimulation through toys, exercise, and training can help reduce these behaviors. 

By following these tips and working closely with your veterinarian, you can help your dog find relief from itchiness and improve their overall quality of life. Remember, every dog is unique, and what works may differ depending on your dog’s case. Patience and persistence are key in managing your dog’s allergies and skin conditions.