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Dog allergy supplements include ingredients that help our canines fight specific allergens. Supplements aid canine immune systems and work to minimize allergy symptoms like inflammation and itchiness.
Dogs with skin and environmental allergies may benefit from supplements that include omega 3 and omega 6 fatty acids.
“For dogs with environmental allergies, supplementing omega 3’s can be very beneficial, but with food allergies, you have to be careful about the flavoring,” says Dr. Erica Irish, DVM. “Also, fish oil is usually contraindicated (like if a pet has a seafood allergy).”
👉 It’s always a good idea to ask your veterinarian if a specific supplement is an appropriate choice for your dog.
Know that supplements are designed to boost your dog’s diet and can help ease symptoms, but won’t 100% cure your dog’s allergies. Here’s what to look for when choosing a supplement:
Vitamin E is good for skin health but already a part of regular commercial diets, so over-supplementation can be problematic.
Dr. Erica Irish
DVM
Dog kibble is generally enough for your dog’s well-balanced diet, as it’s optimized to give your dog all the protein and vitamins they need. Pet parents should always read the label of a supplement before serving it to ensure that it’s a quality product and to check if it includes any ingredients your dog is allergic to.
Unfortunately, dogs can also overdose on vitamins. Signs of vitamin poisoning can vary, but symptoms generally include vomiting, diarrhea, and weakness. If your dog is showing signs of vitamin poisoning, contact your veterinarian immediately and bring any vitamins or supplements they’ve ingested to the appointment.
👉 Never give your dog human allergy supplements without asking your vet, as they may have ingredients that hurt your dog.
Symptoms of allergies in dogs vary depending on what kind of allergy they have. If your dog is experiencing any of the following symptoms, chat with your vet.
Wash with medicated shampoos and leave-on conditioners — Dogs have sensitive skin, and allergies can make them shake and itch, leading to dry, flaky, and irritated skin. Regularly bathe them with dog medicated shampoos to restore and relieve aching skin.
👉 Never use human shampoos, as dogs will ingest anything used on their body
Wipe down your dog’s paws — Dogs walk through dirt, grass, and so many other environmental allergens that they then track into your home. Use hypoallergenic pet wipes or a wet washcloth to clean allergens like pollen off your pup’s snout, face, and paws.
Try hypoallergenic dog foods — Some dogs can’t process ingredients used in dog kibble (like beef, chicken, or dairy). Hypoallergenic dog foods are typically made with hydrolyzed and novel proteins that are gentle on sensitive stomachs.
👉 Check out our 4 vet-approved hypoallergenic dog foods.
Topical treatments — Treatments like paw balms, pet wipes, and anti-itch sprays can soothe hot spots and problem areas on your dog’s body. Topical treatments won’t cure your dog’s allergies, but they’ll make living with them more bearable.
Use a flea and tick preventative — Since fleas are one of the leading causes of canine allergies (and they’re no fun to have in your home) regularly dose your dog with a flea and tick preventative. Since there are so many flea preventatives on the market — oral and topical medications, and collars — you can select what works best for you.
👉 It’s important to note that allergies can lead to severe allergic reactions in dogs, so you should work closely with your vet to manage your dog’s allergies.
According to VCA Hospitals, dogs can usually safely take antihistamines like Claritin but you’ll want to check with your veterinarian first. Dogs can have different reactions to over-the-counter medicine, and you’ll want to check the label.
It’s important to check with your vet before you give your dog Benadryl. It can be used to treat allergies, but you should consult with your vet on dosage.
You can safely give your dog Zyrtec for their allergies, but as with Benadryl, you need to use it with caution and consult your vet. VCA Hospitals report that you should never give your dog Zyrtec in conjunction with pseudoephedrine.
Dogs can take some human allergy medications, but you should always check with your vet first. Allergy medication can control symptoms but doesn’t cure allergies.
Soothe dry, itchy skin by spraying a mix of apple cider vinegar and water directly onto your dog’s skin. Just make sure to avoid any open wounds or cuts.
Remove as many allergens from your environment as you can. Regularly vacuum and dust your home, replace air filters, and wipe canine companions down after walks with a wet wipe so they don’t track allergens inside. Change up your walking routine to avoid outdoor spaces with more allergens, like fields, woods, and parks.
