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Natural Support for Dog and Cat Allergies


Is your pet suffering from allergies and irritation? Symptoms like itching, scratching, skin irritation, redness, digestion issues, hair loss, and more can all be signs that you pet is having an allergic reaction to something. A natural antihistamine and additional support supplements can help bring your pet relief from their symptoms.

Here are some benefits to natural antihistamines and supplements can help with pet allergy relief:


  • Improved Skin Health - Many allergy supplements contain omega-3 fatty acids, which can help to improve skin and coat health. Omegas are especially helpful for atopic dermatitis, redness, dog dandruff or itchiness due to allergies.

  • Improved Digestive Health - Digestive enzymes and probiotics can be helpful for dogs that experience digestive problems due to allergies.

  • Reduced Allergy Symptoms - By reducing inflammation and supporting the immune system, allergy supplements may help to reduce the symptoms of allergies in dogs, such as itching and scratching, skin irritation, atopic dermatitis, ear infections and digestive problems.


Common Signs of Allergies in Dogs & Cats


Pets can have multiple types of allergy symptoms brought on by atopic dermatitis, seasonal allergies, or food intolerances. In some cases, he symptoms can all be somewhat similar. Here are some of the most common allergy responses in dogs and cats:

Constant Scratching & Red, Irritated Skin


Usually a result of food or environmental allergies. A pet with seasonal and environmental allergies will tend to itch and scratch more at certain times of the year. Dogs and cats respond to all types of allergens, both environmental and food, with an inflammatory skin response. When your pet is constantly scratching the same area, the skin can become red and irritated and sometimes atopic dermatitis can turn into a skin infection.

Ear Itching, Shaking & Tilting


This can be a sign of an ear infection. When dogs have allergies, they tend to develop inflammation and heat in the ears, head, neck and feet increasing the chance of yeast overgrowth and infection. Ear infections are not only stinky, they are uncomfortable for your pet. Most dogs will paw or scratch at their ears to alleviate the pressure and itch. The symptoms can be painful and smelly and often become a chronic problem.

Butt Scooting


Ever notice your dog rubbing its butt along the carpet? That's a sign that it is trying to scratch an itch or alleviate pain. Allergies and inflammation can lead to anal sacculitis (inflammation of the anal sacs). The anal sacs are intended to be emptied each time a dog has a bowel movement, enabling your dog to mark its territory. Impacted anal glands can be smelly and result from genetic malformation or bowel irregularities, such as constipation. Food allergies and yeast are often contributing factors. Many dogs that scoot their butts have digestive problems and are eating foods with ingredients that cause intestinal inflammation and yeast overgrowth. Most owners find that by making changes to the diet and by adding a few supplements, they can help to relieve the itching.

Hair Loss


Hair Loss is typically thought to be caused by fleas and mites, however, food and environmental allergies can also cause this. Many pets will scratch their fur out because of skin irritation which can cause red, inflamed skin and lead to secondary infections.

Licking Their Groin


Constant licking and chewing at the groin is frequently a sign of yeast and allergic reactions. If your pet is licking its genitals frequently, it is important to be sure that your pet doesn't have a urinary tract infection first, as this can also be a symptom of a UTI. Pets can get yeast overgrowth due to too many carbohydrates in the diet, treatments with steroids, or antibiotics or food allergies.

Dandruff, Dry, or Flaky Skin


Dandruff is more than just a cosmetic issue in pets. It can be a sign of an underlying condition, such as allergies or an endocrine condition. Dandruff and dry, itchy skin can be exacerbated by low water intake and a lack of omega-3 fatty acids.

Eye Discharge Causing Tear Stains and Red/Brown Discoloration


This is a commone allergic symptom in dogs. Breeds such as Maltese, Poodles and Chihuahuas are more likely to have tear stains below the eyes. The red or brown discoloration comes from iron-containing molecules called porphyrins that your body produces when it breaks down iron. These porphyrins are excreted through the gastrointestinal tract, urine, saliva and tears. Many times pets have excessive tear staining due to allergies (food and environmental), viruses or a yeast overgrowth. Brown tear stains that have an odor are often a sign of yeast.

Skin Growths


Skin tags, or small "pimple-like" growths, are often diagnosed as mast cell tumors, especially in older dogs. Mast cells are immune cells that respond to allergies and irritations in the skin. They contain chemicals such as histamine and heparin, which are released during an inflammatory or allergic reaction. A sudden histamine release can cause swelling, vascular changes, and inflammation that present as skin growths.

Diarrhea, Vomiting, & Lack of Appetite


Allergies can cause serious digestive upset in some pets. While this type of reaction is more common with food allergies, some pets can be more sensitive to environmental allergies. The majority of the immune system resides in the gastrointestinal tract, so it is very important to keep your pet's microbiome in balance.

How Do You Know If It’s Seasonal Allergies?



The symptoms of allergies in dogs and cats can vary depending on the type of allergy (seasonal vs. diet vs. environmental) and the individual pet's response to the allergen.

When trying to determine whether your pet is suffering from a seaonal allergen, you can attempt to rule certain things out by doing an elimination diet and changing their environment to remove potential environmental allergens.

If you believe your pet might be suffering from a seasonal allergen, consult with your vet to find the best way to rule out dietary and environmental allergens. Some of these symptoms can also be caused by other health issues, so it's important to have your dog examined by a veterinarian if they exhibit any of these symptoms.

A veterinarian can perform diagnostic tests to determine the underlying cause of the symptoms and develop an appropriate treatment plan.

Supplements For Dogs With Itching & Scratching


AllerEaze Natural Antihistamine


AllerEazeAllerEaze - All-natural AllerEaze is a dog allergy supplement that contains scientifically proven quercetin, which reduces your dog's histamine response and can take the edge off allergy symptoms. Prescription allergy medications for dogs may provide temporary relief but can have side effects like drowsiness. Quercetin is a natural antihistamine that doesn't cause drowsiness and is often referred to as "Nature's Benadryl". AllerEaze is an herbal blend containing quercetin and nettle leaf. Nettle leaf has anti-inflammatory properties that also help relieve dog allergy symptoms. Clients use AllerEaze in combination with Power Probiotic and Olive Leaf Extract for relief for atopic dermatitis and red, irritated skin.


Probiotics for Dietary Allergens


Power ProbioticPower Probiotic - Power Probiotic is the best probiotic for dogs with allergies! Controlling allergies starts with good digestion. The skin is an elimination organ, and so using Power Probiotic is your dog's first defense toward building a strong immune system. Backed by scientific research, this powerful multi-strain probiotic supplement promotes the growth of good, friendly bacteria which boosts your pet's immune system. Because it fights infection and yeast, Power Probiotic is essential if your pet has taken antibiotics. Research* shows probiotic supplements can reduce skin sensitivity and promote the balance of healthy bacteria on the skin to reduce inflammation. Pure and natural. It is especially helpful for pets with skin problems, yeast and allergies. Many pets love the taste of the Power Probiotic!
*Reference: Research study: Health effects of probiotics on the skin. Crit Rev Food Sci Nutr.. 2015;55(9):1219-40.

Omega-3 Fatty Acid for Skin-related Allergies


PureOcean Wild OmegasAmazing Omegas
The omega-3 fatty acids found in fish oil are one of the best dog allergy supplements because they provide relief for dry, itchy skin. Omega-3 fatty acids have anti-inflammatory effects, which can help reduce the inflammation associated with allergic reactions. They help to maintain the skin barrier and reduce itching to help prevent secondary skin infections caused by excessive scratching. Our high-quality, purified fish oils contain a powerhouse of omega-3 fatty acids from sardines, anchovies and mackerel.


PureOcean Wild Omegas are concentrated, easy-to-use softgels. They have a natural fishy flavor and many pets love the taste.

Amazing Omegas is our original liquid fish oil supplement for dogs. Processed with minimal heat to preserve the oil in a highly bioavailable form, which means increased absorption. It's packed in glass bottles to prevent any chemicals from plastic leaching into the oil. Amazing Omegas are made with a lemon scent and some finicky pets may not like the taste.



Anti-inflammatory Supplements for Allergic Symptoms that Cause Swelling and Irritation


Olive Leaf ExtractOlive Leaf Extract For Pets - A natural antibacterial herbal remedy that has been used since ancient times. Helpful for dogs with allergies, ear infections, skin infections and yeast overgrowth (tear-stained eyes, ear discharge, cheesy smell, licking groin, yeasty paws). Dogs use their skin to help remove toxins from their bodies and a build-up of toxins can cause red, itchy and smelly skin. Olive Leaf Extract is a natural alternative to antibiotics prescribed for skin conditions like atopic dermatitis in dogs. Its active ingredient, oleuropein, helps fight against pathogens while causing no harm to healthy bacteria in your pet's gut and mucous membranes. Olive Leaf Extract has antioxidant properties to help relieve the irritation and inflammation caused by skin infections.


NOT Drops
NOT Drops - This is a best seller! NOT Drops is a powerful anti-inflammatory, anti-infection liquid. This homeopathic remedy is especially important for relieving allergy symptoms. It’s a natural remedy for fighting infections and reducing doggie odor and redness. It controls harmful bacteria and restores gut flora balance, improving digestive symptoms and immune function. These tasteless drops can be easily administered to dogs.



Supplements For Yeast Related Allergic Reactions


K9 Yeast DefenseK9 Yeast Defense - Many dogs constantly scratch due to an underlying yeast condition. If your dog has had ear infections or a smelly odor, especially on the paws, then use K9 Yeast Defense in conjunction with allergy products. This natural antifungal supplement stops doggie odor, chronic ear infections, licking at the groin and scratching at the ears. K9 Yeast Defense is a safe way to get rid of yeast infection symptoms and support your pet's immune system. Since yeast and bacterial growth go hand in hand, it's best to use K9 Yeast Defense along with NOT Drops and Power Probiotic.

What to Feed Pets With Allergies?


Allergies in pets can be caused by seasonal allergens (e.g. pollen), food and/or external allergens (e.g. chemical exposure). One of the fastest ways to improve allergic reactions is to improve their diet.

Many dogs are allergic to certain meat proteins (like poultry or beef) and common allergens such as corn, milk products, soy, peanut butter and gluten (found in wheat, barley, spelt and other grains). Poor digestion can also be a root cause of many symptoms related to food allergies in dogs, so we strongly recommend that any pet with allergy symptoms use Power Probiotic as well as a digestive enzyme such as K9 Digestive Enzymes or LypoZyme.

Our dog supplements for skin allergies and seasonal allergies can give your pet long-lasting relief, especially when diet changes are made.

Ask Ariel's Pet Nutritionist offered holistic consultations in conjunction with veterinarians at VCA hospitals for over 10 years. Her diets and supplement protocols for dogs with allergies, yeast and skin problems have been recommended by veterinarians nationwide.

When ordering allergy supplements for dogs, please include your dog's diet and treats on the order form at checkout. We will include free diet tips for dogs with allergies and skin problems on the packing slip that comes with your order. Our low carbohydrate, novel protein diet tips have been giving dogs anti-itch relief since 2005.


Customers Who Have Found Pet Allergy Relief

Dakota

"I want to let you know how great Dakota, our Golden Retriever that we rescued, is doing. When we got him, he had bad ear infections that he had for months, and his skin was so black in the armpit and groin areas that we thought it was ground in dirt. He also had acid reflux and would bring up bile several times a day. It has taken several months, but the blackened skin (from yeast) is almost back to normal thanks to K9 Yeast Defense. I wish we had taken “before” pictures of his skin because the difference is remarkable. And, for his acid reflux, we started using your supplements (Power Probiotic, K9 Digestive Enzymes, Gastro ULC and Soothing Digestive Relief). We used to give him Pepcid, but we have been able to slowly wean him off. I can’t forget to mention using your food recommendations. His ears didn’t start to clear up until we got him eating food that he could tolerate. Thank you so much for your supplements and all your help. Dakota is a much happier dog thanks to you!"

Pam & Tim, Pennsylvania

Boris

"Boris is my (now) 10 year-old domestic medium haired cat. He's a gentle and loving boy. He's had issues with allergies and feline herpes since he was 1 year old, which manifest in sneezing and runny eyes with discolored discharge.

A couple of years ago, I found AskAriel. Boris was switched to a novel food source, and I put him on NOT Drops in addition to his daily l-lysine. The NOT Drops keep his eye issues mostly under control, and I can definitely tell when I've skipped a dose.

Thanks for helping my Bobo!" - Pamela, Illinois


Beebop

"Thank you so much for the allergy and skin solutions! The NOT Drops alternating with the QUENT Drops not only gave my 15 year old Maltese, Beebop, relief from his respiratory and skin allergy symptoms---these amazing products helped his skin to heal completely and his beautiful hair to return so thickly, he looks like a young pup again. His ear inflammation and "gunk" cleared up and he's happy and frolicking like his "old self". He's living up to that Beebop name and wrestling with our other two Maltese, Bambi and Thumper. For the first time in years, his little tail is back up and curled as he romps around our yard. We are eternally grateful to you and continue to recommend you and your products to all of our pet-owner friends and family."

Debbie, Florida


Chocolate Chips

"Just a bit of history, we got our Chorkie when she was about 9 weeks old. We truly believe she was the runt or just didn't get enough milk from her mother. She was not in good shape. She is 2 years old now. Since we got her until now she's had different health issues but the allergies have been the worst. We've spent thousands on vet visits, medications, natural treatments, etc. to no avail. Well, not until I found Ask Ariel while doing a Google search. I ordered some of the recommended supplements for allergies and gut issues. I have to say I was skeptical at first, but I am happy to report our Chorkie, Chocolate Chips, has improved significantly! I am so thankful that I found Ask Ariel." - Liza, Texas

Products Used: K9 Digestive Enzymes, NOT Drops, K9 Yeast Defense and Power Probiotic.


Need Help with Pet Allergies?


We understand how hard it is when your dog is suffering from allergies, and we will do all we can to help. It can be confusing when trying to understand which dog supplements would be appropriate for your pet. For more help finding the best natural remedies for dog allergies, please email us at [email protected]. Please note that we cannot provide consultative advice due to veterinary regulations, but we will be happy to provide articles and information so that you can make an informed decision about what's best for your dog.




Originally published Oct 11, 2020
Updated Feb 29, 2024
Written by: Susan Davis, Pet Health Nutritionist, CCN
All pet treatment protocols and pet treatment supplements have been reviewed and approved by a veterinarian



Cat & Dog Allergies Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)


How do I know if my dog has allergies?

Common symptoms of allergies in dogs are constant scratching, itching, licking especially of the paws, chewing, red bumps and rashes, hot spots, hair loss and ear infections. Dogs with food allergies may experience digestive problems such as vomiting and diarrhea.

Why is my dog itching and scratching?

Excessive itching is called pruritus and it can be caused by environmental or food allergies, fleas, ticks, parasites, bacterial or yeast infections, dry skin or mast cell tumors. It’s very important to bring your dog to the veterinarian to get a diagnosis, especially since there are so many different causes of scratching and itching.

Why is my dog always scratching but doesn't have fleas?

Fleas aren’t the only reason that dogs scratch themselves. Many dogs itch and scratch due to allergies or dry skin. Diet is also an important cause of itching and skin problems in dogs. Feeding a hypoallergenic, novel protein diet is helpful. Omega-3 fatty acids in the form of fish oil relieves inflammation, helps allergy symptoms and can give dogs a lustrous, shiny coat.

What can I give my dog for allergies over the counter?

The best natural remedy for dog allergies is quercetin. It has been referred to as a natural “Benadryl”. Quercetin is a bioflavonoid with antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties that suppresses the histamine response that causes the itch and inflammation. AllerEaze is an herbal blend of quercetin and nettle leaf to provide powerful antihistamine relief to dogs and cats with allergy symptoms such as excessive scratching and itching, constant licking, red skin, hair loss and hot spots.

What can I give my cat for allergies?

Quercetin is helpful for cat allergies. Quercetin naturally reduces the histamine response. A probiotic is also very important for cat allergies as food allergies are a common culprit for cat allergy symptoms.

How can you help cat or dog itchy skin?

The fastest way to help your cat or dog with itchy skin is from the inside out. Many pets with dry or itchy skin have allergies and the food they are eating can be the biggest culprit. Dogs and cats can be allergic to many common meat proteins and ingredients such as corn, soy and gluten. Essential fatty acids (EFAs) have been scientifically shown to be helpful for allergies. Many commercial pet foods do not contain a sufficient amount of omega-3s. Adding a few supplements to your pet’s regimen to reduce allergy symptoms can also give them much needed relief from constant scratching and itching.

What is a natural hot spot treatment for dogs and cats?

Most topical hot spot treatments will only work temporarily to ease the itching and redness. The best natural hot spot treatment is to determine the source of the itch. Pets that suffer from seasonal or environmental allergies do not get runny noses or watery eyes like people, their immune systems respond with itchy skin, redness and hives. Your cat or dog may constantly bite and lick, creating hot spots. The best way to prevent hot spots and allergies is to avoid the triggers. Many pet foods, even premium brands, contain ingredients that your dog or cat may be sensitive to. It is important to read the labels to see what is really in the food and to add natural supplements, like Power Probiotic to boost the immune system, AllerEaze to suppress the histamine response and Amazing Omegas to reduce inflammation.