Four signs your dog has hay fever you should never ignore

Hay fever is a common allergy that causes sneezing, coughing and itchy eyes. Symptoms are usually worse between late March and September, especially when it’s arm, humid and windy, according to the NHS.

But it turns out it’s not just a problem us humans face – dogs can suffer from hay fever symptoms too. While there are many things us humans can do to help relieve symptoms, such as wearing sunglesses, taking medicine or putting petroleum jelly around our nostrils, it’s not as easy for dogs.

It’s important to never give human hay fever remedies, including antihistamines, to dogs, but there are things you can do to help them.

Hay fever symptoms in dogs

The Pet Health Club shared some signs your dog may have hay fever on TikTok. The symptoms include red watery eyes (sometimes with discharge), ear infections (frequent head shaking or scratching), excessive licking (especially paws and legs) and itchy skin (scratching, licking or chewing).

They captioned the clip: “Just like us, dogs can get hay fever and other allergies. Here are some signs to watch out for. If you are concerned about your dog, book an appointment with your vet.”

How to treat hay fever in dogs

Pets Charity Woodgreen has shared advice on how to treat hay fever in dogs on its website. It’s important to always speak to your vet about any symptoms they are having. They will be able to work out the cause of the symptoms and give them a diagnosis, including the right medication.

They might also advice using topical treatment such as medicated shampoo, eye drogs, nasap spray, antihistamines for pets (not humans), or an injection.

However, it’s always important to speak to a vet because there are many other allergies that can have similar simptoms, such as a reaction to flea bites or mould.

Things you can do to help if you suspect your dog has hay fever is wash your pet’s bedding regularly at 60 degrees, wipe their coat and paws after they’ve been outside, bathe and groom them regularly, and avoid walking in grassy areas when pollen count is high.