Dachshunds & Seasonal Allergies
It wasn’t long after our dachshund turned one year old that we realised he had seasonal allergies, specifically to grass and grass pollen, so dealing with this annual problem has become quite a fixture in our household come the summer months! The first signs that indicated an issue were he was biting and chewing his paws excessively, especially after walks or playing on grass, and his belly and chest became itchy, with the skin becoming red and irritated. Where he had chewed his paws so much, this became infected, so we took him to the vets who confirmed it was seasonal allergies and recommended some possible treatments, as well as a medicated shampoo to clear up the infection.
If you do suspect that your dog has seasonal allergies, or any allergies, it is really important that you seek proper advice from your vet before trying anything to relieve the symptoms. Some human anti-histamines for example, are safe to give dogs in carefully measured dosages, however you should only do this under the instruction of a vet. A professional is best placed to give you the right advice for what to do to get your dog relief from allergies.
What are the signs to look out for with seasonal allergies in dogs?
Itching, Scratching, Paw Chewing and Licking:
One of the most prominent symptoms is excessive itching. You may notice your dog scratching, biting, licking, or chewing their skin, or other affected areas. Persistent scratching and chewing can result in hair loss or thinning in affected areas.
Allergies can also affect the paws, leading to excessive licking, chewing, or gnawing. You may notice redness, swelling, or even the development of sores on the paw pads.
Skin Irritation:
Allergies can cause skin redness, inflammation, and irritation. Your dog's skin may appear red, develop a rash, hives, or even develop sores or hot spots.
Respiratory and Eye Symptoms:
Dogs with allergies may experience sneezing fits, a runny or congested nose, and nasal discharge. Inhaled allergens like pollen or dust mites can also cause respiratory issues in dogs, such as coughing, wheezing, or difficulty breathing.
Allergic reactions in dogs can sometimes lead to watery or teary eyes, redness, and even eye discharge or swelling.
Ear Infections:
Allergies can contribute to ear inflammation and recurrent ear infections. If your dog frequently scratches or shakes their head, it may be a sign of an allergic response or another ear problem.
Digestive Issues:
Some dogs with allergies may experience gastrointestinal symptoms such as vomiting, diarrhoea, or increased flatulence. It is worth bearing in mind that this may be due to other allergies, such as a food allergy, so it’s important to get your dog seen by a vet asap if they have ongoing digestive issues.
Behavioural Changes:
Allergies can make dogs uncomfortable and irritable. You may notice changes in their behaviour, such as increased restlessness, irritability, or decreased appetite.
It's important to note that these symptoms can also be caused by other health conditions, so it's essential to consult with your vet for a proper diagnosis and appropriate treatment. Your vet can perform tests or recommend allergy testing to determine the specific allergen triggering your dog's symptoms, as well as provide advice and treatments.
How are seasonal allergies in dachshund treated?
If your dachshund is suffering from seasonal allergies, and this has been confirmed by your vet, there are several steps you can take to help alleviate their symptoms and make them feel more comfortable.
Here are some tips for treating seasonal allergies in Dachshunds:
Identify the Allergen:
The first step in managing your Dachshund's seasonal allergies is to determine the specific allergen causing their symptoms. Common allergens include pollen, grass, dust mites, mould, or certain foods. Consult with your vet, who may want to perform allergy testing or discuss the possible triggers based on your dog's symptoms and exposure.
Minimise Exposure
Once you've identified the allergen, try to minimise your Dachshund's exposure to it. Keep an eye on the pollen count in your area and try to limit outdoor activities when levels are high. For example, when grass pollen is particularly high, we will either avoid walking our boy that day, or will try to stick to pavements rather than grass and make sure to wipe his paws on returning from outside.
Regularly clean your home to reduce dust mites and mould. Consider using air purifiers and keeping windows closed during peak allergy seasons.
Bathing and Grooming:
Regular bathing and grooming can help alleviate allergy symptoms in Dachshunds. Use a hypoallergenic or medicated shampoo recommended by your veterinarian to soothe their skin and remove allergens from their fur. When our dog’s paws were particularly sore from his chewing, our vet recommended Malaseb Shampoo, which is antibacterial, to help clear up the infection. If you have a long haired dachshund, regular brushing will also help remove allergens and prevent matting.
Medications and Supplements:
Your veterinarian may prescribe medications or supplements to manage your Dachshund's seasonal allergies. When our dachshund was suffering particularly badly for example, our vet prescribed some tablets to ease the itching, which prevented him from chewing his paws. Antihistamines can also help reduce itching and sneezing. However, never give your dog any medication without consulting a professional, as some human medications can be toxic to pets. Your vet may also recommend supplements like omega-3 fatty acids to support skin health.
Regular Veterinary Check-ups:
Keep up with routine veterinary check-ups to monitor your Dachshund's allergies and keep their general health in check. Your vet can assess the effectiveness of the treatment plan and make adjustments as necessary. They will also provide guidance on long-term management strategies and any additional measures you can take to support your Dachshund's well-being.
Remember, every Dachshund is unique, and what works for one may not work for another. It's crucial to consult with your vet who can provide a tailored treatment plan for your dog. With proper care, you can help your Dachshund enjoy the changing seasons without discomfort caused by allergies.
