🐶 Signs of Allergies in Dogs & How to Help Them
Just like humans, dogs can suffer from allergies — and as pet parents, it’s our job to spot the signs early. Whether it’s constant itching, digestive issues, or watery eyes, knowing the symptoms (and what to do) can make all the difference in your pup’s health and happiness.
👉 Don’t forget: If you’re a new pet parent, grab your Free New Puppy Checklist: 12 Must-Haves for the First 30 Days to make sure you’re fully prepared. And if you want to track your pup’s health, habits, and progress daily, check out our 30-Day Puppy Journal.
7 Common Signs of Allergies in Dogs
1. Excessive Itching & Scratching
If your dog is constantly scratching or biting their skin, allergies might be the cause. Fleas, food sensitivities, or environmental triggers like pollen can all lead to itchy skin.
2. Red, Inflamed Skin 🌸
Look for hot spots, redness, or rashes on your pup’s belly, paws, or ears. These are often signs of allergic reactions.
3. Chronic Ear Infections 👂
Recurring ear infections, shaking the head, or smelly ears may indicate a food or environmental allergy.
4. Watery Eyes & Runny Nose 👀
Like us, dogs can get watery eyes, sneezing fits, and even nasal discharge when allergies strike.
5. Constant Paw Licking 🐾
If your dog licks their paws obsessively, it may be their way of soothing itchy, irritated skin caused by allergens.
6. Digestive Problems 🍗
Diarrhea, gas, or frequent vomiting may be linked to food allergies. Common culprits include beef, chicken, dairy, and grains.
7. Hair Loss or Bald Patches ✂️
Allergy-related scratching and chewing can lead to bald spots, scabs, or thinning fur over time.
What You Can Do to Help 🐕
- ✅ See Your Vet – Always the first step. Your vet can recommend tests and treatment.
- ✅ Switch to Hypoallergenic Food – Limited-ingredient or grain-free diets often help.
- ✅ Regular Baths – Using gentle, allergy-friendly shampoos can ease skin irritation.
- ✅ Flea & Tick Prevention – Parasites are a major allergy trigger, so stay protected.
- ✅ Track Symptoms – Use the 30-Day Puppy Journal to record scratching, diet, and health changes. This makes vet visits much more effective.
Allergies in dogs are more common than most pet parents realize — but with the right care and attention, you can help your pup live a happy, itch-free life.
🐾 Next Step for Pet Parents:
- Grab your Free New Puppy Checklist to get started.
- Upgrade your journey with the 30-Day Puppy Journal to track health, training, and milestones.
🐾 FAQ
The most common signs include constant scratching, licking paws, red or irritated skin, watery eyes, and frequent ear infections. Some dogs may also have digestive issues like vomiting or diarrhea.
Allergies can be triggered by food ingredients, pollen, dust mites, flea bites, or even certain shampoos and cleaning products. Identifying the cause is key to effective treatment.
Food allergies often cause digestive problems and itchy skin around the face or ears, while environmental allergies are more seasonal and may cause paw licking, sneezing, or runny eyes.
Yes — but only under your vet’s guidance. Your vet may recommend an elimination diet or a limited-ingredient formula to identify triggers safely and accurately.
Never give your dog human allergy medication without consulting a vet. Some human meds can be toxic to dogs. Your vet can recommend safe antihistamines or prescription treatments.
Yes! Omega-3 supplements, hypoallergenic shampoos, regular grooming, and keeping your home dust-free can help reduce allergy symptoms naturally.
If your dog’s symptoms last more than a few days, worsen, or interfere with daily life — it’s time to see your vet. Early treatment can prevent skin infections and chronic irritation.
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