Can dogs have allergies? What dog allergy symptoms should I look out for? Are dog allergies environmental, seasonal, or food-related? Slow down – we have all the answers to your questions about dog allergies. 

Can dogs have allergies?

Dogs can definitely have allergies, just like humans. Food allergies in dogs are mostly common in puppies and seniors (dogs older than seven years old). Dog allergy symptoms can also develop after exposure to environmental allergens like pollen, dust, and mold. 

If your sinuses suffer every spring, you most likely have seasonal allergies. But can dogs have allergies when the seasons change? Absolutely – although the symptoms are slightly different from what a human experiences. 

Identifying Dog Allergy Symptoms

Seasonal dog allergy symptoms mostly affect your dog’s skin and coat. If you notice your pup showing any of the following dog allergy symptoms, they may have seasonal allergies:

• Scratching or biting themselves
• Red, itchy skin 
• Excessive shedding
• Licking their paws 
• Scooting their bum on the ground 
• Licking their anal glands
• Red, waxy ears
• Difficulty breathing, coughing, or wheezing

While environmental dog allergies typically show during certain times of the year, food allergies in dogs aren’t seasonal. If your dog’s diet hasn’t changed and they are showing allergy symptoms despite seasonal changes, odds are they have a food allergy.