When spring rolls around in Australia, many dogs start scratching, sneezing, and rubbing their faces — and pollen is often the culprit. A dog with a pollen allergy can be just as miserable as a human hay-fever sufferer, yet the signs look quite different. Knowing what to watch for helps you act early and keep your mate comfortable through every seasonal shift.
What Causes Pollen Allergies in Dogs
Dogs can develop seasonal allergies to airborne pollen from grasses, weeds, and trees — just like people do. When a sensitive dog inhales or comes into contact with pollen particles, their immune system overreacts and releases histamine.
Unlike human hay fever, which mainly affects the nose and eyes, a dog's allergic reaction tends to show up on the skin. The histamine response triggers intense itchiness, inflammation, and sometimes secondary infections when your dog chews or scratches broken skin.
Breeds such as Staffordshire Bull Terriers, West Highland White Terriers, Labrador Retrievers, and Boxers seem to be more prone, though any dog can develop sensitivities over time. Dogs often begin showing signs between one and three years of age, but onset can vary — so don't dismiss symptoms in younger puppies or older dogs.
Common Allergy Symptoms During Pollen Season
Dogs with seasonal allergies share many symptoms with dogs suffering from flea-allergy dermatitis, food sensitivities, or mites. Knowing the full picture helps you narrow things down.
Skin-related signs:
- Persistent scratching, licking, or chewing — especially paws, belly, armpits, and ears
- Red, inflamed skin or a rash on the groin or inner legs
- Hot spots (moist, raw patches) that appear suddenly
- Hair loss in patches from constant rubbing
Other signs to watch for:
- Watery or red eyes
- Recurrent ear infections with a yeasty smell
- Sneezing or reverse sneezing
- Scooting or licking the rear end
If these symptoms flare up every spring or summer and ease off in winter, there's a strong chance pollen is involved. It's also worth checking that your dog's flea, tick, and worm prevention is up to date, since flea bites cause very similar itching and can complicate the picture.
When Is Pollen Season Worst in Australia?
Australia's pollen season varies by region, but most of the country sees peak grass-pollen counts from October through December. In south-eastern states like Victoria and New South Wales, "thunderstorm asthma" events can send pollen levels soaring without warning.
Northern parts of Australia may experience pollen triggers earlier in the year, and subtropical areas such as south-east Queensland can have near-year-round grass growth. Wind and warm, dry days typically produce the highest counts.
Monitoring your local pollen forecast — the same ones used for human hay fever — gives you a handy heads-up. On high-pollen days, adjust walk times and keep your dog indoors during peak morning hours.
Quick tip: Wipe your dog's paws and belly with a damp cloth after every outdoor walk. This simple step removes pollen before it gets rubbed into the skin or spread through your home.
Treatment and Relief Options
There is no overnight cure for allergies, but several approaches can dramatically reduce your dog's discomfort throughout the season.
Bathing and topical relief: A gentle, soap-free oatmeal shampoo can soothe irritated skin and physically wash away pollen. Bathing once a week during peak season makes a noticeable difference for many dogs. Browse our range of oatmeal shampoos and skin supplements formulated for sensitive canine skin.
Supplements: Omega-3 fatty acid supplements such as fish oil support the skin barrier and may reduce the severity of inflammatory flare-ups over time. They work best when given consistently rather than only during allergy season.
Environmental management: Washing your dog's bedding weekly in hot water, vacuuming frequently, and keeping windows closed on high-count days all lower indoor pollen levels.
If your dog's symptoms are severe — open sores, constant distress, or recurrent ear infections — your vet can run allergy testing to pinpoint exact triggers and discuss prescription options such as immunotherapy or targeted allergy medications.
How to Reduce Your Dog's Pollen Exposure
Prevention won't eliminate allergies entirely, but it can keep reactions manageable and reduce the need for medication.
- Time your walks: Pollen counts tend to be highest in the early morning and on windy afternoons. Late-evening walks are often the safest bet.
- Stay off freshly mown grass: Mowing throws huge amounts of grass pollen into the air. Avoid parks and footpaths near active mowing.
- Keep parasite prevention current: Fleas and allergies together create a miserable cycle. Make sure your flea and tick protection is always up to date.
Good nutrition, regular grooming, and consistent parasite control all support skin health — your dog's first line of defence against seasonal irritants.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can dogs develop pollen allergies later in life?
Yes. Although many dogs first react between one and three years old, allergies can develop at any age. Repeated exposure over several seasons sometimes triggers a new sensitivity, so don't rule out pollen just because your older dog has never reacted before.
How can I tell if my dog's itching is from pollen or fleas?
Flea-allergy dermatitis usually concentrates around the lower back, tail base, and hind legs, while pollen allergies tend to affect the paws, ears, belly, and face. Ensure flea prevention is current and see whether the itching persists — if it does, pollen or another environmental allergen is more likely.
Are certain dog breeds more prone to seasonal allergies?
Terrier breeds, Bulldogs, Retrievers, and Boxers are commonly affected, but any breed — including mixed breeds — can develop sensitivities. Genetics plays a role, so if a parent dog had allergies, puppies are more likely to as well.
Can I give my dog antihistamines for pollen allergies?
Some antihistamines are used in dogs, but the type and dose must be determined by your vet. Never give human medication without veterinary guidance, as certain formulations contain ingredients that are toxic to dogs.
What foods help dogs with seasonal allergies?
Foods rich in omega-3 fatty acids — such as fish-based diets or meals supplemented with fish oil — can support skin health and may help moderate inflammatory responses. A balanced, high-quality diet strengthens the skin barrier, making your dog more resilient during pollen season. Ask your vet for tailored dietary advice.
Seasonal allergies don't have to mean months of misery for your dog. Start with simple steps like paw wipes, regular baths, and proper parasite protection, and chat to your vet if symptoms are severe or worsening. Browse our full range of dog products at Sierra Pet Products to keep your best mate comfortable all year round.
