How to Hack Dog Allergies
Spring means showers, flowers, and, for many of us, the arrival of peak allergy season (dogs included). But how do you know if your dog is struggling with seasonal allergies?
5 Signs Your Dog May Have Allergies
Here are a few telltale signs your dog may need some allergy relief (and an immunity boost).
They’re excessively itching, licking, scratching, and shedding (especially in a single recurring area).
Their belly, ears, and/ or paws look pink, red, or inflamed (think: hotspots).
They’re boot, scootin’, and boogying (rubbing their anal glands on the carpet or floor).
5 Easy Ways to Support Your Dog During Allergy Flare Ups
Boost Their Immune System
The best seasonal allergy defense? Your dog’s diet.
Why? Health begins in the gut. Not in a vet’s office. A recent study found that puppies who ate table scraps (non-processed proteins, vegetables, and berries) were less likely to experience GI issues later in life. Early diet is a key factor in supporting their gut microbiome — which impacts everything from digestion to immune function and even your dog’s temperament and behavior.
Good news is switching to Raw Food helps boost their immune system thanks to unprocessed lean proteins, whole fruits and vegetables, and super nutrients like Bovine Colostrum, Fish Oil (Omega-3s), and collagen-rich Bone Broth.
Found in our Raw Food Anxiety & Calming Formula, Bovine Colostrum supports Gut Barrier Integrity, absorption of key nutrients, and helps reduce inflammation.
Found in our Raw Food Skin & Coat Formula, Fish Oil is packed with Omega-3 Fatty Acids which helps reduce inflammation, itching, shedding, and hotspots.
Found in our Bone Broth Topper, this super nutrient contains Glycine which is clinically proven to help repair and seal the intestinal wall (barrier integrity) to help mitigate leaky gut syndrome, bolster immune function, and help alleviate seasonal allergies.
2. Groom Your Dog
Maintaining your dog’s hygiene is essential in managing your dog's seasonal allergies.
Bathing your dog with a hypoallergenic shampoo helps remove allergens from their fur and skin and reduces the likelihood of irritation. Even brushing your dog's coat helps prevent matting, removes loose fur, and minimizes the accumulation of allergens.
3. Limit Pollen Exposure
Like humans, dogs may also be affected by pollen in the environment. To avoid coming into contact with pollen in the air or on the skin, consider adjusting your walking schedule to avoid peak pollen times (think: early morning or late evening). Wipe your dog's paws and coat after outdoor activities to remove any lingering allergens and prevent transferring residue to carpets, couches, linens, dog beds, etc.
4. Optimize Your Home Environment
Often, what’s good for us is also good for them. Making simple changes to your home environment can significantly reduce your dog's exposure to allergens. Use air purifiers to filter out airborne particles, wash your dog's bedding regularly in hot water, and vacuum your home frequently with a vacuum cleaner equipped with a HEPA filter to capture allergens effectively
5. When In Doubt, Ask Your Vet
Consulting with your veterinarian is crucial for a comprehensive approach to managing your dog's seasonal allergies. They can conduct allergy tests to pinpoint specific triggers and prescribe medications or antihistamines to alleviate symptoms. Always follow your vet's advice and administer medications as directed to ensure your dog's safety.
