8 Tips for Managing Your Dog’s Seasonal Allergies in the Fall

July 29, 2022
dog playing with toy outside

We hear a lot about food allergies these days, but did you know that it’s actually more likely for dogs to be allergic to their surroundings? Just like in people, dog seasonal allergies are quite common.


Unlike food or medication allergies, which can be found at any time, dog seasonal allergy symptoms are seen during specific times of the year. The same allergens that cause a reaction in humans, such as dander, grasses, weeds, trees, insects, pollen, and mold, can cause dog allergy symptoms.

Symptoms of Fall Seasonal Allergies in Dogs

Sneezing and itchy, watery eyes are common dog fall allergy symptoms. But other signs can also be caused by fall allergens:


  • Does your dog have itchy, watery, or runny eyes?
  • Do you notice red, irritated skin?
  • Does your dog have itchy ears or frequent ear infections?
  • Is your dog sneezing?
  • Have you seen areas with hair loss?
  • Does it seem like your dog won’t stop licking?
  • Do you see large, open sores or swelling around your dog’s feet?


Any of these symptoms can be a sign of dog fall allergies.

Managing Your Dog's Seasonal Fall Allergies

When you begin seeing signs of dog allergies, there are a few initial steps you should take. These are things you can do yourself at home that may relieve your dog’s discomfort and prevent more serious conditions. You can try these tactics before you make a vet appointment or visit the animal clinic.

  • 1. Fleas in the Fall

    Most people associate fleas with summertime and may even stop using flea prevention during fall and winter. This is the opposite of what you should be doing! In the fall, fleas hide in places like leaf piles and thick grass. When they sense your dog’s warm body passing by, they jump on this easy target. Plus, fleas don’t die until there’s a hard freeze, which usually happens after the fall season in the Midwest. We recommend starting a flea control program for your pets before flea season starts and continuing it year-round.

  • 2. Give Your Dog a Bath More Often

    Check with your veterinarian or pet clinic first, but one way to help with dog skin allergies is to give your dog more frequent baths. Use a soft, hypoallergenic anti-itch shampoo with a soothing ingredient like oatmeal, aloe, or evening primrose oil to wash their fur. You can also try soaking your dog in a bath containing a light moisturizing oil like coconut oil or vitamin E. 

  • 3. Sanitary Sleeping Conditions

    Fall allergens can build up on your dog’s bedding or other sleeping surfaces, so you should keep them clean by washing with hot water once a week. Make it easier by using towels or blankets on top of beds and other furniture to keep irritants off the surface underneath. Include your dog’s soft toys in your weekly washing routine.

  • 4. Clean Your Dog’s Inside Surroundings to Reduce Irritation

    Change your home’s air filters on a regular basis to minimize fall allergens coming in through open doors and windows. Using an air conditioner or a dehumidifier will help reduce mold growth from moisture. Keep your dog out of wet areas, such as basements, bathrooms, or laundry rooms, where mold can thrive. Vacuum at least once a week and remember to clean any dust or pollen-covered drapes or rugs.

  • 5. Change Your Daily Walk Routine to Fit Your Dog’s Needs

    The time of day you choose to walk may also impact your dog's seasonal allergy symptoms. Pollen levels are usually highest in the early morning or late afternoon, so choose other times for your daily walks. During dog fall allergy season, avoid fields and parks where fall allergen plants are common or consider finding an indoor play area.


    After your walk, use a wet towel or a hypoallergenic, fragrance-free grooming wipe to clean your dog's body and paws. A quick wipe-down can help remove extra pollen and other allergens from your dog's fur and skin. Pay special attention to the paws since allergens frequently impact the sensitive skin there. 

  • 6. Itchy Ears Can Be Caused by Allergens

    When you notice your dog with itchy ears or inflamed ears, this is a common dog allergy symptom. In addition, dogs with seasonal allergies are more likely to develop ear infections. If you see your dog scratching their ears or shaking their head more than normal, dragging the side of their face along the carpet or furniture, these can be signs of an ear infection. You may also smell a foul odor coming from their ear or see redness on their inner ear flap or in their ear canal. An ear infection is a serious condition and necessitates a visit to your vet or an animal hospital.

  • 7. Introducing Diet Supplements

    To relieve irritation and enhance general skin health, try offering your dog a natural nutritional supplement such as fish oil or a fatty acid like omega-3 or omega-6 oil. Coconut oil can also help with skin health by helping to suppress allergic reactions. Ask your vet for advice on supplements that can help with dog fall allergies symptoms.

  • 8. More Aggressive Treatments May Be Necessary

    If your dog won't stop licking, scratching, or chewing, or if their skin is red and irritated, it’s time to seek professional care. Your vet or animal clinic can prescribe more aggressive treatments like antihistamines, steroids, or allergy shots.

Need More Help? Visit Chipman Road Animal Clinic, Your Local Veterinary Experts

Chipman Road Animal Clinic is a veterinary pet clinic providing the best dog allergy treatment in Lee's Summit and the Kansas City area. We also provide affordable treatment for all pets, including animal emergencies. If you have a dog, cat, or other pet emergency, our experts can help with caring, prompt treatment. To learn more, please contact us!

Give Us a Call!