(This article has been updated with with new products)
As the days grow warmer, you may notice a lot of itchy dogs frantically scratching themselves in streets, parks and dog runs. Seasonal allergies are on the rise, and they will only get worse as the summer progresses.
If your dog is allergic to pollen, your dog’s problems began in the spring. They get worse in summertime because many plants that trigger allergies, like ragweed, grasses, vines and some flowers are low to the ground where your dog walks, plays or relaxes.
Insects are another allergen that can trigger your dog — even ones that don’t have allergies. Fleas, mosquitos, bees, wasps, fire ants, ticks, hornets and yellow jackets can all cause allergic reactions, sometimes serious ones that may require a trip to the doggie ER.
Related: 10 Breeds That Are Prone to Allergies
Other triggers include air pollution and smog that are trapped in heavy humidity or carried on summer breezes. Allergens affect dogs when inhaled, ingested or there’s contact with the skin. Symptoms appear when the body attempts to get rid of the irritant. It’s important to recognize the signs that your dog has allergies, so you find the correct treatments.
The Symptoms of Summer Allergies
There are many different signs that your dog has summer allergies. These include:
- Itchy, red, moist, or scabbed skin
- Hot spots
- Red, watery eyes
- Increased scratching
- Coughing and sneezing
- Itchy ears and ear infections
- Shaking the head
- Nasal discharge
- Chewing the paws, inflamed paws
- Wheezing
- Obsessive licking
- Rubbing the face on things
Products to Help Allergy Sufferers in the Summer
For dogs who have sensitive skin or allergies, this shampoo from Major Darling provides much needed relief. Using a soap-free formulation, it won’t strip the coat or dry out the skin. Plus, the oatmeal and aloe vera help with skin irritation and re-moisturizing. The result is a soft, clean, and happy pup!
Bye Bye Shabby Coat nourishes your dog’s skin and coat from the inside out. Veterinarian formulated and using powerful natural ingredients, including healthy omegas, salmon oil, and vitamin E, our chews help heal dry, itchy, irritated skin, while also promoting a shinier and softer coat. Also, great for summertime, when dogs are more prone to hot spots and skin irritation. All our supplements are proudly manufactured in the USA.
For dogs with dry noses and paws along with the rough, scratchy skin, Pure + Good’s Push-Up Pawp balm provides much-needed relief. Made of coconut oil, shea butter, and other hydrating ingredients, the balm moisturizers, soothes, and heals areas in need of some TLC. By doing so, it helps with dog’s redness, inflammation, and itchiness.
For dogs with itchy, irritated skin, Chagrin Valley Soap & Salve’s Honey and Oats shampoo bar provides much-needed relief. Made with finely ground oats, honey, and cornstarch, the shampoo bar soothes dry skin while adding shine and moisture to the coat.
For dogs with sensitive skin, the laundry detergent we use can make their ailments even worse. Filled with chemicals, our detergent can make dogs scratch more and exacerbate their allergies. Fox +Hound’s natural detergent is here to help. After spending two years working with a chemist, it not only helps keep your dog’s essentials clean (and free from allergy-causing substances), but also smelling incredible.
Itchy ears are never fun for your dog, and summer time can make it worse. Pure + Good’s Every Ear Wash can be used to combat a variety of ear issues and is gentle enough to use every day. The chemical- and alcohol-free formula aids in the removal of moisture, wax, and dirt build-up, which can cause odor and may lead to itching and infections
Related: We Compared the Top Dog Food Delivery Companies on Ingredients, Price and What Makes Them Special
