Before resorting to medication, it's wise to try home remedies for dog allergies. Dogs get allergies from a variety of sources. Inhalant allergies, bacterial allergies and food allergies are common types of allergies in dogs. Hot spots and other skin irritations often indicate a topical allergy that can improve with simple nutritional changes. Home care should never take the place of regular visits to the vet. Talk with your vet about the following home remedies, and take your dog in if symptoms continue.
1. Nutritional Changes
Allergies can be markedly controlled with diet. Dogs with bacterial and topical allergies often respond to a diet that is lower in its glycemic index. Dogs with symptoms such as hot spots often do well on a diet that includes fresh cooked yams in each meal. Grapefruit seed extract also helps to improve digestion which is a key part of many allergies.
Dogs often develop allergies to chicken and duck. Sticking to protein from buffalo and venison can make a huge difference in allergic symptoms. For dogs with a specific food allergy, finding out what that food is and then eliminating it from the diet can control symptoms. Altering the diet can also help a dog who seems to have an inhalant allergy.
2. Air Purifiers
Getting a high quality air purifier can help a dog with inhalant allergies. Find one that extracts the highest percentage of allergens from the air. An air purifier that regulates moisture in the air can also be helpful.
3. Home Cleaning
A dog with allergies will have the least symptoms if his bedding and carpets are clean. It's easiest to wash a dog bed that has a removable case. Vacuum and dust the house once weekly to ensure that dust mites and other allergens are removed. Your dog might also be allergic to the material used in his bedding. In that case, try a different type of bed and see if that helps.
4. Purifying Sprays
Furniture and dog bedding becomes even more non-allergenic when sprayed during cleaning. Commercial allergy sprays work well but you may prefer to avoid products that may have chemicals. Warm water with lavender oil and other essential oils can kill many mites and other allergens. There are also more natural sprays available at natural food stores.
5. Over the Counter Medicines
It is safe to give a dog an over-the-counter antihistamine once you have consulted with your veterinarian. 1 mg per pound of the dog's weight, 2 to 3 times a day will take affect within 2 weeks. Powders with antihistamines can be very effective on hot spots.
6. Special Baths
Dogs with bacterial or topical allergies often respond very well to bathing products you can buy at a good pet food store. A shampoo with oatmeal and/or tea tree can help to soothe inflamed skin. Using a conditioner each time you bathe your dog can keep his skin comfortable and healthy. Putting Epsom salts in the bath can draw out toxins that are causing inflammation. Use a cup of the salts in the bath but make sure your dog doesn't drink any of the water.