Can Dogs Get Hayfever? Signs, Symptoms and How to Help

We get asked this question a lot! So many people see their dogs itching in spring and summer and wonder ‘can dogs get Hayfever?’ Some people think this sounds silly but the truth is yes, dogs can get Hayfever and it is surprisingly common! In face it is thought that around 10% of dogs in the UK suffer from pollen allergies. It’s one of the most common problems we see here at Stinky Stuff. 

In this guide we’re going to look at the symptoms of Hayfever in dogs, when this occurs, risk-factors and how you can make your dog more comfortable during allergy season. 

What actually is hayfever in dogs?

Hayfever, or allergic rhinitis, is an allergic reaction to the pollen found in grass, trees, weeds and other plants. Pollen is airborne. As well as breathing this in, the pollen also lands on dogs coat and skin. Their immune system then reacts, releasing histamines which cause itching and inflammation. 

What are the signs of hayfever in dogs?

Here are the most common signs to watch for.

Itchy skin. This is the main symptom of Hayfever in dogs and tends to be worse on the belly, groin, armpits and paws, all the areas which come into direct contact with grass. You might also notice itchy ears and face as the pollen is breathed in or trapped in the ears. 

Redness and inflammation. If your dog has been scratching a lot, you might see patches of red, irritated skin. Some areas may also appear inflamed.

Watery or red eyes. Less common than itching but pollen can cause watery eyes in dogs too. 

A runny nose and sneezing. Again, not as common as other symptoms but some dogs do get the snuffles like humans.

Sore or chewed paws. Because your dogs paws are in direct contact with the grass when out walking or paying in the garden this is really common.

Tiredness. Allergies can also cause your dog to become lethargic. Although this can also be a symptom of other illnesses so it they do seem lethargic for more than a day or so its best to see a vet. 

Your dog doesn’t need to show all of these. Itching is the most common but some dogs might just have watery eyes or a runny nose. These are just the things you can watch out for. 

When is hayfever season for dogs?

In the UK pollen season generally runs from late March to September. But some dogs will be more sensitive to certain types of pollen so you might see their allergies peak during certain months:

Tree pollen is usually highest March - May. 

Grass pollen is usually highest May - July.

Weed pollen is usually highest June - September.

You can keep an eye on the pollen count by checking the weather and this can help you to anticipate and prepare for any flare ups/

Are some dog breeds more prone to hayfever?

Yes certain breeds are more likely to suffer from Hayfever. The breeds we hear about most often are Bulldogs, Westies, Blue Staffys, Daschund (particularly miniature), Spaniels, Retrievers, Labradors, Dalmatians and Boxers. Smaller dogs whose bellies are closer to the ground are also more likely to show the classic red belly making allergies more noticeable in these breeds. But that doesn’t mean other breeds can’t suffer from Hayfever too. Other factors including how much time your dog spends outside, where they live and walk also factor in.

Could it be something else?

It’s really important we think about this so we don’t mistake something else for Hayfever. Fleas, food allergies and skin infections also cause similar symptoms. The thing with Hayfever is that it is limited to the spring and summer months. But it is always important to speak to a vet to get a diagnosis if your dog is displaying any new symptoms, regardless of the time of year. 

How to help a dog with hayfever

While there is no cure for hayfever in dogs, there is plenty you can do to ease the discomfort and make pollen season more manageable. Here are some practical tips that can make a real difference.

Just like other allergies there is no cure for Hayfever. It’s a case of managing the symptoms and trying to limit or reduce flare ups.

Plan your walks carefully

Where you walk and what time of day can make a huge difference. Pollen tends to be higher during the middle of the the day, and of course it’s higher in green areas such as parks and fields. Try walking the morning or evening, stick to pavements and avoid fields and Forrests. It might not be as fun as a good run in an open field but neither is itching skin and sore paws. 

If your dog likes water, swimming is another great way to avoid pollen and get some fun exercise. The water will rinse away any pollen on your dogs coat or skin and it’s a great form of exercise. 

If you like by the coast a walk on the beach is another great idea, pollen tends to be much lower on the coast. 

Protect your dog

Applying a balm to paws and bellies on high pollen days or when out walking creates an extra layer of protection for your dogs skin to prevent irritation in these areas. Dog Stuff is great for this!

Wipe or rinse your dog after a walk. 

This will remove any pollen from their coat of skin. Simple and effective. 

Bath-time

Regular baths with a soothing shampoo is a great way to keep allergies under control. It will rid your dogs coat and skin of any pollen whilst also soothing any irritation. 

Just don’t wash them too much as this can strip their coat and skin of natural oils which can exacerbate itching. And avoid harsh shampoos. Dog Stuff by Stinky Stuff is a great option, it’s super hydrating and moisturising so it won’t strip their skin of natural oils and it’s also really soothing too! 

Keep your home pollen-free

Vacuum and wash soft furnishings (including your dogs bedding) regularly and keep windows closed to keep pollen out. 

Support your dogs skin health

Regular grooming, a healthy diet and supplements such as Food Stuff will keep your dogs skin healthy making it more resilient to pollen and allergy flare ups. 

Check the pollen count

Weather apps show the pollen count and this can help you to plan accordingly. 

When should you see the vet?

If your dog is showing and new symptoms it’s always important to go to the vet first so you can be certain what is causing this. Once the vet has confirmed Hayfever as the culprit you can then choose the best remedies for your dog. If your dogs usual treatment isn’t working it’s also worth popping back to the vet to see why this is. 

There’s lot of information on the internet about giving dogs human hay fever tablets. You should never do this without the advice of a vet. Some human medications can be toxic to dogs. Your vet can advise on what is safe and what dose is suitable. 

The bottom line

Yes dogs can get Hayfever just like humans and it is actually really common in the UK. But the good news is there’s actually lots of ways you can help manage this so you and your dog can enjoy the spring and summer months together.