Dog Allergies 101: Why Your Pup Won’t Stop Scratching This Fall

Photo by Michael Oxendine on Unsplash

Pumpkin spice latte season is here — but while you’re enjoying cozy vibes, your dog might be miserable. If your pup is scratching nonstop, licking their paws, or shaking their head this fall, seasonal allergies may be the culprit. Just like people, dogs can react to pollen, mold, and dust. The difference? They can’t tell you what’s wrong. Here’s how to spot dog allergies, when to worry, and what to do to give your furry friend some relief.

🍂 What Causes Fall Allergies in Dogs?

• Ragweed pollen: Peaks in late summer and early fall.
• Mold spores: Thrive in damp leaves and yard debris.
• Dust mites: Get stirred up more as the weather changes and heaters kick on.

🐶 Common Signs of Dog Allergies
Unlike humans (who sneeze and get watery eyes), dogs usually show allergies on their skin and ears:

• Constant scratching or chewing
• Red, inflamed skin
• Licking or chewing at paws
• Ear infections (shaking head, smelly discharge)
• Hot spots (raw, weepy patches of skin)
• Recurrent skin infections

🏥 When to See the Vet
Some mild allergies can be managed at home, but call your veterinarian if you notice:

• Persistent scratching that disrupts sleep or daily life
• Open sores or bleeding
• Recurrent ear infections
• Hair loss or thickened skin
• Signs of infection (odor, pus, oozing, pimples, pain)

⚠️ Pro tip: Ear infections linked to allergies rarely go away on their own. Waiting = worse infections = more expensive treatment.

💊 Treatment Options

• Veterinary Exam: To rule out fleas, mange, skin infections, or other issues that can cause itching, red skin.
• Antihistamines: Sometimes helpful, but results vary. Check with your vet for dosage.
• Prescription Medications: Apoquel®, Cytopoint®, Atopica® or sometimes oral steroids may be needed for relief and really help with flare-ups or severe allergies. Steroids are less preferred as there are newer medications that don't have the negative side effects of steroids.
• Medicated Shampoos & Wipes: Help reduce allergens and soothe skin. Even bathing with oatmeal shampoo can help some dogs, just make sure to use tepid water, let the shampoo soak on the dog for 3-5 minutes, and rinse completey.
• Ear Medications: If infections are present.
• Long-Term Options: Allergy testing and immunotherapy can really help severe cases.

🏡 What You Can Do at Home

• Wipe your dog’s face, paws, belly with an unscented baby wipe after walks to remove pollen.
• Bathe weekly with a vet-approved shampoo during allergy season.
• Wash bedding frequently in hot water.
• Use HEPA filters indoors.
• Keep up with flea prevention — flea allergies make everything worse.

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🐾 Bottom Line
​If your dog is itchy this fall, don’t dismiss it as “just dry skin.” Seasonal allergies are real, uncomfortable, and can lead to bigger problems if untreated. With your vet’s help (and some at-home TLC), you can keep your pup comfy while you sip that pumpkin spice latte.

Warmly, 

Dr. Sarah

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