How Supplements Can Help Dogs With Allergies

Lauren Corona
by Lauren Corona
A real pain in the sniffer, pooches are not immune to the ravages of allergies. Here’s how supplements may be able to help dogs with allergies.


Just like us, dogs can suffer from a range of allergies, from seasonal allergies to skin allergies and everything in between. If your pup suffers from allergies, it can be extremely frustrating for both you and your dog, especially if you can’t pin down the source. Vets often prescribe drugs, such as steroids, to treat allergies, but these can have side-effects that can be as irritating as the original allergy.


Should I Treat My Dog’s Allergies With Supplements?


While supplements can be beneficial for dogs with allergies, but everything will help all dogs and in some cases they might not be as effective as medicinal treatments. If your dog has mild allergies, then it can be a good idea to experiment with different supplements to see what works. However, if your dog has severe allergies, which are causing him discomfort, you should see your vet first and start treating the symptoms. Once they’ve cleared up a bit and your pup is more comfortable, then you can try the supplement route.


Related: Are There Dog Supplements That Can Help Shedding?


Supplements for Flea Allergies


One of the most common causes of contact dermatitis – a type of skin allergy – in dogs is being allergic to fleas. While there’s no supplement that will stop your pooch from having a flea allergy, there are some supplements that can help repel fleas. Try feeding garlic (though be careful not to feed too much) or brewer’s yeast to keep fleas and ticks at bay.


Supplements for Dogs with Skin Allergies


There are a range of allergies that can manifest with symptoms such as rashes and itchy skin, which can be uncomfortable for your four-legged friend. Of course, the best way to get rid of such allergies is to identify the source of the allergy and avoid exposing your dog to the allergen. However, in cases where the allergen can’t be identified or avoided, then there are a number of supplements that might help relieve allergic reactions of the skin. Essential fatty acids (EFAs) are amongst the most effective substances for relieving itchy skin. EFAs can be found in supplements such as hemp oil, fish oil, flax seed oil and coconut oil. Supplements with anti-inflammatory properties can also help to reduce itching. These include: bromelain, curcumin, boswellia, nettle leaf and vitamin E.


Related: Top 10 Natural Supplements For Dogs


Other Supplements That May Help Dogs With Allergies


There are other supplements that you can try which may help dogs suffering from non-specific allergies or from other symptoms of allergies, such as sneezing, vomiting or diarrhea. Some people swear by probiotics for treating allergies, especially if symptoms include any digestive issues. Probiotic supplements restore the balance of good bacteria in your pup’s digestive tract and can help boost immunity in general. Vitamin C is another great supplement for tackling allergies of all kinds. It has a natural anti-histamine effect, so it can help to reduce various symptoms of allergies. Bioflavinoids, such as quercetin and hesperidin, also have anti-histamine properties.

Lauren Corona
Lauren Corona

Lauren Corona is a freelance writer from merry old England. She specializes in writing about dogs and other critters. Lauren lives near Oxford, with her gorgeous Doberman, Nola. When she's not tapping away at the keyboard, you'll find her walking in the woods with Nola-dog, raising money for the Oxfordshire Animal Sanctuary, cooking vegan food, making zines and writing about herself in the third person.

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