Can Dogs Get Hayfever

Can Dogs Get Hayfever

Hayfever isn’t just a human problem—dogs can suffer from it too. While we tend to experience sneezing, itchy eyes, and a runny nose, hayfever in dogs usually shows up a bit differently. It’s caused by the same thing—an allergic reaction to pollen—but the signs often affect a dog’s skin more than their sinuses.

If your dog seems itchier in spring or summer, licks or scratches more than usual, or gets red, irritated skin after walks, hayfever could be the cause. It’s more common than many dog owners realise and can affect dogs of all ages and breeds.

What Causes Hayfever in Dogs?

Hayfever is an allergic response to airborne pollen from trees, grasses, and weeds. When pollen levels rise—especially during warmer months—some dogs’ immune systems react with inflammation, just as they do with other environmental allergies.

Dogs don’t always inhale the pollen directly. It can stick to their fur, paws, or nose during walks and trigger a reaction once they’re back home. Some breeds are more prone to developing sensitivities, especially those with existing skin issues or a history of allergies.

Signs Your Dog Might Have Hayfever

Unlike humans, dogs with hayfever don’t usually get a runny nose or watery eyes as the main symptom. Instead, you’re more likely to see:

• Itchy skin, especially around the face, paws, chest or belly
• Excessive licking or biting at paws
• Red, inflamed patches or rashes
• Sneezing or coughing (less common, but still possible)
• Ear infections or head shaking
• Watery eyes in some dogs

These symptoms may be worse after outdoor walks or when pollen counts are high. Some dogs also develop secondary infections from scratching too much, which can make the problem even more uncomfortable.

How Is Hayfever Diagnosed in Dogs?

There’s no quick test like a pollen count strip for dogs, but a vet can usually diagnose seasonal allergies based on symptoms and timing. They might rule out other causes like fleas, food allergies, or infections first. In some cases, your vet may recommend an allergy test to pinpoint specific triggers.

Keeping a diary of your dog’s symptoms and noting when they occur can be helpful for spotting patterns and confirming a seasonal link.

How to Help a Dog with Hayfever

Managing hayfever in dogs often means reducing their exposure to pollen and easing their discomfort when symptoms appear. Some helpful strategies include:

• Wiping down your dog’s paws, legs, and belly after walks to remove pollen
• Bathing them more regularly with a gentle, hypoallergenic shampoo
• Keeping windows shut during high pollen days
• Limiting walks to early morning or late evening when pollen levels are lower
• Vacuuming and washing bedding more often to keep indoor pollen to a minimum

In more severe cases, your vet may prescribe antihistamines, anti-itch medications, or even allergy injections. Never give human hayfever tablets to your dog unless your vet advises it—some are dangerous to dogs.

Is Hayfever Dangerous for Dogs?

Hayfever itself isn’t usually dangerous, but the constant scratching and licking it triggers can lead to more serious issues like skin infections, hot spots, or ear infections. Dogs who suffer year after year may become chronically uncomfortable if their symptoms aren’t properly managed.

Prompt treatment and prevention can go a long way in keeping your dog comfortable throughout allergy season. The sooner you recognise the signs, the better you can support your dog’s wellbeing.

Can Any Dog Get Hayfever?

Yes, any dog can develop hayfever, but some breeds are more likely to be affected—particularly those with sensitive skin or a genetic predisposition to allergies. Breeds like West Highland White Terriers, French Bulldogs, Retrievers, and Cocker Spaniels tend to be more prone to skin and environmental allergies in general.

However, even a dog with no previous issues can develop hayfever later in life. Allergies can show up gradually or suddenly, and their severity can change from year to year.

Dogs Can Develop Hayfever at Any Age

Just like humans, dogs aren’t born with hayfever—it develops over time. A dog might be totally fine for the first few years of life and then suddenly begin reacting to pollen. This means even if your dog has never shown signs of allergies before, they can still develop hayfever later on. It can also worsen with age if left untreated.

Hayfever Symptoms Can Be Mistaken for Other Issues

The itchiness and skin irritation caused by hayfever often gets confused with:

• Flea allergies
• Food intolerances
• Mites or yeast infections
• Contact allergies (e.g., from grass or cleaning products)

This is why diagnosis can take a bit of time. If the reaction is seasonal and worsens outdoors, hayfever becomes a strong possibility.

Some Dogs Experience Behavioural Changes

Allergies can impact mood and behaviour. Dogs suffering from hayfever may become:

• Restless or agitated from the itch
• More withdrawn or lethargic
• Reluctant to go on walks
• More likely to nibble furniture, overgroom, or whine

These signs are often missed because they’re subtle or mistaken for other behavioural issues.

Pollen Can Stick Around Indoors

Even if you’re not walking your dog through fields of flowers, pollen can still get into your home. It comes in on shoes, clothing, and your dog’s coat. During peak seasons, pollen can cling to carpets, furniture, and bedding, keeping the allergic reaction going even when your dog’s inside.

Using air purifiers, regularly washing your dog’s bedding, and wiping them down after walks can all help reduce this indoor exposure.

Some Dogs Get Eye and Nose Symptoms Too

While skin issues are the most common symptom in dogs, some do show more “human-like” hayfever signs:

• Watery or red eyes
• Runny noses
• Snorting or reverse sneezing

These can be more common in flat-faced breeds like Bulldogs or Pugs, who already have sensitive respiratory systems.

There Are Natural Remedies (But With Caution)

Some owners explore natural options like:

• Omega-3 supplements (anti-inflammatory, good for skin health)
• Quercetin (a natural plant-based antihistamine—only under vet advice)
• Coconut oil or oatmeal baths (to soothe itchy skin)

While some remedies can help, they should never replace veterinary care. Always run natural treatments past a vet first, especially if your dog is on any other medication.

You Can Track Pollen Levels for Dogs

Some websites and weather apps now include daily pollen forecasts, which can help you plan walks during lower-pollen times. You can also track your dog’s symptoms against pollen levels to get a clearer picture of what triggers flare-ups.

Summary

Dogs can absolutely get hayfever, although the symptoms may look a bit different from what humans experience. Itchy skin, paw licking, and rashes are common signs to watch for. While it’s not usually dangerous, hayfever can make your dog very uncomfortable if left untreated. With a mix of at-home care and vet support, your dog can still enjoy the great outdoors—even when pollen is in the air.