The Itch Factor: Understanding Seasonal Allergies in Dogs and How to Help

Is your dog scratching non-stop? Discover the signs of seasonal allergies in dogs, their causes, and how a sensitive diet like Addiction Pet Food’s Sensitive Care range can help soothe the itch. 

Dogs With Allergies: What Every Dog Parent in New Zealand Needs to Know 

There’s scratching—and then there’s scratch-like-your-life-depends-on-it kind of scratching. 

If your dog seems to be in a constant wrestle with an invisible itch, seasonal allergies might be the cause. 

Just like humans, dogs can suffer from environmental allergies—and yes, it’s just as uncomfortable for them as hay fever is for us. 

What Are Seasonal Allergies in Dogs? 

Seasonal allergies, also known as atopic dermatitis, are allergic reactions caused by airborne particles. When dogs inhale or come into contact with these allergens, their immune system goes into overdrive.

Common dog allergy triggers include: 

• Pollen from grasses, trees, and weeds 

• Dust mites and mold spores 

• Environmental pollutants (especially urban areas)
  
  

Symptoms of Seasonal Allergies in Dogs 

If your dog has allergies, you may notice: 

• Excessive scratching (especially on paws, ears, and belly) 

• Licking or chewing at paws and limbs 

• Red, inflamed or irritated skin 

• Recurring ear infections or head shaking 

• Watery eyes or sneezing 

How to Help Dogs with Seasonal Allergies 

You can’t wrap your dog in cling film, but there are proven ways to make allergy season more manageable.

1. Reduce Allergen Exposure 

• Wipe paws and coats with a damp cloth after walks 

• Wash bedding and toys regularly

• Vacuum frequently to reduce indoor allergens
  
  

2. Use Hypoallergenic Shampoos 

Give your dog regular baths with gentle, fragrance-free shampoos. Medicated or flaxseed-based formulas can help calm itchy skin and remove surface allergens.

3. Consider Supplements or Medications 

• Omega-3 fatty acids for anti-inflammatory support 

• Antihistamines (ask your vet) 

• Veterinary-prescribed allergy medications
  

But here’s where most dog parents overlook a major piece of the puzzle: 

Why Diet Matters for Dogs with Allergies 

What you feed your dog can either ease or worsen their allergy symptoms. 

At Addiction Pet Foods, we created our Sensitive Care range to help dogs with food and environmental sensitivities. It’s not just about what we put in—it’s about what we leave out. 

Addiction’s Sensitive Care Range: Made for Itchy Dogs 

Our recipes are carefully crafted with: 

✅ Novel proteins like venison and kangaroo to reduce risk of food-triggered allergies 
✅ Limited ingredients that avoid common allergens like beef, chicken, and dairy 
✅ Omega-rich oils to nourish skin and coat health 
✅ Antioxidants to support your dog’s immune system 
✅ No artificial additives—just clean, wholesome ingredients from New Zealand 

This makes it ideal for dogs with both food and seasonal skin allergies. 

👉 Explore the Sensitive Care range here:

Why It Works 

When your dog’s immune system isn’t constantly battling ingredients in their food, it has more capacity to handle environmental allergens. 
Think of it as clearing out the static so the real signals get through. 

Final Sniff of Advice 

If your dog is itchy, uncomfortable, or constantly scratching during certain times of the year, don’t chalk it up to “just sensitive skin.” 

Seasonal allergies are real—and treatable. 

By combining: 

• Smart environmental hygiene 

• Vet-guided care 

• And a hypoallergenic diet like Addiction’s Sensitive Care range… 

…you can give your dog real relief and a happier, healthier life—itch-free.