Common Dog Allergy Symptoms

At Doggoholic Rescue Foundation, we often see pups come in with allergy symptoms that have gone unnoticed or untreated. The most common dog allergy symptoms we see include:

• Itchy skin – especially around the paws, ears, belly, and face
• Chronic ear infections or frequent head shaking
• Red, inflamed skin or hot spots
• Constant licking or chewing at paws and limbs
• Hair loss or thinning coat
• Watery eyes or sneezing
• Digestive issues like vomiting or loose stools (less common, but still allergy-related)

A lot of these pups come to us misdiagnosed or on repeated rounds of antibiotics or steroids without long-term relief. That’s why we explore possible food sensitivities and environmental triggers right away — like switching to limited-ingredient or hypoallergenic diets and using natural, holistic approaches to soothe their systems.

Natural Allergy Relief for Dogs at Home

🌿 Here are a few simple things a dog owner can do at home to help relieve their dog's allergy symptoms:

1. Apple Cider Vinegar Rinse (Diluted)
   • Mix 50/50 apple cider vinegar and water in a spray bottle.
   • Use it as a rinse or spray on itchy spots (avoid open wounds).
   • Helps fight bacteria and yeast buildup on the skin.
2. Oatmeal Baths
   • Use plain, ground oats or buy an all-natural oatmeal shampoo.
   • Soothes itchy, inflamed skin and moisturizes dry patches.
   • Great for calming hot spots and seasonal flare-ups.
3. Coconut Oil
   • Apply a thin layer to dry, irritated skin to reduce itching and promote healing.
   • Can also be added to food in small amounts (helps improve skin and coat).
4. Quercetin (Natural Antihistamine)
   • Known as “nature’s Benadryl,” quercetin is a natural plant compound that can reduce inflammation and itching.
   • Available in pet-safe supplement form (always check with your vet for dosing).
   • Always check with your vet for dosing.
5. Probiotics
   • A healthy gut can reduce allergic reactions.
   • Add a high-quality, pet-safe probiotic to your dog’s meals to support immune balance.
6. Switch to a Limited Ingredient or Novel Protein Diet
   • Many dogs react to common proteins like chicken or beef.
   • Try food with novel proteins (like duck, rabbit, or venison) and avoid fillers like corn, wheat, and soy.
7. Use Hypoallergenic Wipes or Paw Soaks
   • Wipe down paws and fur after outdoor walks to remove allergens.
   • Epsom salt or green tea paw soaks can reduce inflammation.
8. Fish Oil or Omega-3 Supplements
   • Anti-inflammatory benefits for skin and coat health.
   • Look for pure, mercury-free fish oil made for pets.

💡 Tip: Always introduce new remedies gradually and monitor your dog for reactions. When in doubt, consult a holistic or integrative vet.