Spring sees the start of the pollen season from trees and flowers – How well will your dog cope?

As spring and summer bloom, so do the sneezes and itches, yes, even for our dogs! Just like humans, dogs can suffer from seasonal allergies, and they can be just as uncomfortable for them as they are for us. If your dog seems a bit off during certain times of the year, allergies might be to blame. Here’s what you need to know.

What Causes Seasonal Allergies in Dogs?

Seasonal allergies are triggered by environmental allergens, substances that your dog reacts to after breathing them in, touching them, or even licking them off their paws, common culprits include:

Grass and tree pollen (especially in spring and summer)

Weeds and flowers (late summer into autumn)

Dust mites

Mould spores

Flea saliva (flea allergy dermatitis is extremely common)

Signs and Symptoms to Watch Out For

Allergies can look a little different in dogs compared to humans. You might expect sneezing and watery eyes, but many dogs show symptoms through their skin, you might some of the following:

Constant itching, scratching, or biting at skin

Red, inflamed skin or rashes (often around the paws, belly, ears, and armpits)

Licking or chewing paws

Ear infections or head shaking

Watery eyes or very runny nose

Hair loss or scabs from excessive scratching

Scooting or licking around the anal area

While these symptoms may come and go, they tend to appear or worsen during specific seasons.

When Do Seasonal Allergies Start and Do They Ever Stop?

They usually begin when a dog is between 1–3 years old and can become more noticeable with each passing year. Unfortunately, allergies don’t usually go away on their own but they can be managed with the right care. In some climates, "seasonal" might mean most of the year, especially if the allergens are present for long stretches. However, many dogs experience relief during colder months when pollen and insect levels are lower.

How Allergies Affect Dogs and Their Owners

For dogs, allergies can mean a miserable cycle of itching and discomfort, sometimes leading to secondary infections if the skin becomes broken or inflamed.

For owners, it often results in expensive vet visits, medications, and the heartache of seeing their canine friend suffer. also the added work of cleaning more often, keeping allergens out of the house, and trying different diets or routines to help soothe your dog and identify the triggers.

Medication and Vet Treatments

1. Antihistamines

Often used as a first line of treatment which are not always effective on their own but can help mild cases.

2. Steroids (like prednisone)

Very effective at reducing inflammation and itching and great for short-term relief.

Long-term steroid use can lead to side effects such as weight gain, increased thirst/urination, suppressed immune function, there can be an impact in liver and kidney function too so always use under close veterinary guidance.

3. Apoquel and Cytopoint

Modern allergy treatments designed specifically for dogs with fewer side effects than steroids.

Cytopoint is an injection that can last 4–8 weeks it works by neutralising interleukin-31, a specific protein involved in itching.

Apoquel is an oral medication usually given daily it works by blocking the action of cytokines, which are proteins that contribute to itch and inflammation.

4. Flea Prevention

Essential for dogs with flea allergies and all dogs. Year-round flea protection is key—even in colder months.

Can Diet Help?

Yes! While seasonal allergies are environmental, your dog’s overall health and immune response can be influenced by diet.

Tips:

• ·       Choose high-quality, balanced dog food with minimal fillers
• ·       Omega-3 fatty acids can reduce inflammation and support skin health
• ·       Some dogs may benefit from a limited-ingredient or hypoallergenic diet
• ·       Probiotics and postbiotics may help support a healthy gut and immune system
• ·       Look at the range of supplements from Ace Canine Healthcare.
• ·       If you suspect a food allergy is making things worse, talk to your vet about an elimination diet trial.

Lifestyle Tips and Home Routines

Wipe paws after walks to remove pollen and allergens

Vacuum frequently and wash bedding regularly

Bathe your dog with a soothing, hypoallergenic shampoo (ask your vet about how often—it varies)

Try to keep your dog indoors on high pollen days or during peak times like early morning

In Summary

Seasonal allergies in dogs can be frustrating, but with the right mix of medication, diet, and home care, your dog can live a happy, comfortable life. Keep a close eye on symptoms, talk to your vet about the best treatment plan, and make a few changes at home—it can make all the difference.

After all, no one likes an itchy dog. Especially not the dog.

Seasonal Allergy Support from Ace Canine

Dermal O3 - Advanced natural support for itchy skin and SLO in dogs

BiotinMax  -Healthy coat, skin and nails

Epimmune Superbiotic  - Targets the cause not the symptoms, calms the gut and boots immunity.

Hypocillin -  For ears, eyes, hotspots and wounds, antibacterial antifungal

Questions? ..... we like questions.

Call us on 0118 9842 871

email support@ace-canine.com

We look forward to hearing from you.

Team Ace Canine.