Canine Spring Allergies: Herbal & Nutritional Support for Your Dog

Canine Spring Allergies in Australia: Herbal & Nutritional Support for Your Dog

Spring in Australia is a season of renewal — blossoms on the wattles, the scent of jasmine, warmer days, and more time outdoors. But for many dogs, it’s also the season when allergies flare up. Pollen from grasses, weeds, and trees drifts on the wind, moulds stir after winter damp, and dogs sensitive to these changes may find themselves itchy, red, and uncomfortable.

This blog explores what’s happening, the typical symptoms to watch for, practical steps to reduce exposure, and — most importantly — how we can support our canine companions with herbal medicine and nutrition.

Why Spring Triggers Allergies in Dogs

In Australia, spring coincides with:

• High pollen counts: ryegrass, couch grass, plantain, wattles, casuarinas, and she-oaks are common culprits.
• Increased outdoor activity: more walks, more exposure to environmental triggers.
• Mould spores: lingering moisture from winter creates fungal growth in soil, leaf litter, and even indoors.

When sensitive dogs inhale or absorb these allergens through their skin, the immune system reacts as if under attack. Histamine and inflammatory mediators are released, leading to the frustrating cycle of itch, redness, and infection.

Typical Symptoms of Spring Allergies in Dogs

• Persistent scratching, biting, licking — especially paws, belly, armpits, muzzle, and ears.
• Red, inflamed skin; sometimes darkened or thickened with chronic irritation.
• Ear problems — recurrent infections, head shaking, smelly discharge.
• Watery eyes, sneezing, runny nose (less common but possible).
• Hot spots (moist, rapidly spreading skin sores from self-trauma).
• Hair loss or patchy coats where itching is constant.
• Secondary infections (bacterial or yeast) in ears, skin folds, paws.

Practical Guidance for Dog Owners

·        Daily Paw & Belly Wipes
Use a damp cloth or natural paw rinse after walks to remove pollen and grass seeds.

·        Bathing & Coat Care
Gentle, hypoallergenic shampoo every 1–2 weeks. Herbal rinses (see below) in between can be soothing.

·        Indoor Environment

o   Vacuum and wash bedding regularly.

o   Keep windows closed on high-pollen days.

o   Mop floors to reduce pollen accumulation.

·        Outdoor Awareness

o   Avoid walking during peak pollen times (early morning, windy days).

o   Keep lawns mowed, but avoid freshly cut grass if your dog is sensitive.

·        Vet Support
If symptoms are severe or infections occur, veterinary care is essential. Some dogs need short-term medications, alongside long-term natural support.

Herbal Allies for Canine Allergies

These herbs are traditionally used to ease allergic symptoms and support the skin, liver, and immune system. Always use canine-safe forms and consult a holistic vet or practitioner for dosage.

Nutritional Support for Allergy-Prone Dogs

• Omega-3 fatty acids (EPA/DHA): from fish oil or algae oil; reduce inflammation and itching.
• High-quality protein: ensure digestibility and consider novel proteins if food sensitivities overlap.
• Probiotics: balance the gut microbiome and support immune regulation.
• Antioxidants: vitamins C & E, plus polyphenols from fresh fruit/veg or herbs, to reduce oxidative stress.
• Simple, consistent diet: avoid fillers, artificial additives, and sudden changes.

A Simple At-Home Herbal Rinse

Soothing Skin Rinse (for paws, belly, or hot spots)

• 1 tbsp dried calendula petals
• 1 tbsp dried chamomile flowers
• 500 ml boiled water

Steep herbs for 15 minutes, strain, cool completely. Use a clean cloth or sponge to gently dab affected areas, or pour over paws after walks.

At-Home Herbal Tea Recipe

Nettle & Chamomile Allergy Support Tea

Ingredients (makes ~500 ml):

• 1 tbsp dried nettle leaf
• 1 tbsp dried chamomile flowers
• 500 ml freshly boiled water

Instructions:

1. Place herbs in a teapot or glass jug.
2. Pour over boiled water.
3. Cover and steep 15–20 minutes.
4. Strain and cool completely.
5. Store in fridge (up to 48 hours).

Dosage (add to food once daily):

• Small dogs (<10 kg): 1–2 tbsp
• Medium dogs (10–25 kg): 2–4 tbsp
• Large dogs (25+ kg): ¼–½ cup

✨ Tip: This tea also doubles as a paw rinse for itchy feet after walks.

🌿 An Alternative Herbal Mix for Allergy-Prone Dogs

Alongside my long-standing allergy formula, I’ve also developed an alternative herbal mix that works in a slightly different way. While the original blend is stronger on direct immune modulation, this new version focuses more on detoxification, skin healing, and stress-linked itching.

Herbs included in the alternative mix:

• Albizia (Albizia lebbeck): Herbal antihistamine, stabilises mast cells and reduces histamine release.
• Scullcap (Scutellaria spp.): Nervine and anti-inflammatory; calms stress-related scratching and helps reduce allergic reactivity.
• Cleavers (Galium aparine): Lymphatic cleanser; helps the body clear waste and supports skin health.
• Burdock root (Arctium lappa): Traditional “blood purifier,” supporting liver detox and chronic skin irritation.
• Echinacea (Echinacea spp.): Immune modulator with antimicrobial activity; reduces the risk of secondary skin or ear infections.
• Chamomile (Matricaria recutita): Soothing herb for both skin and digestion, easing irritation and calming the system.
• Gotu Kola (Centella asiatica): Promotes tissue repair, reduces inflammation, and helps strengthen the skin barrier.

Why this mix is different:

• Greater emphasis on liver and lymphatic support to help the body process allergens.
• Stronger focus on skin healing and connective tissue repair for chronic or long-term allergy cases.
• Gentle calming support for dogs whose itching is made worse by stress or anxiety.

This blend is especially helpful for dogs with chronic, recurring skin issues where simply calming the immune system isn’t enough — they also need deeper support for repair, resilience, and long-term balance.

You can find my mix here

When to Seek Veterinary Care

• Persistent or worsening ear infections
• Hot spots spreading quickly
• Signs of systemic illness (fever, lethargy, appetite loss)
• Difficulty breathing, swelling, or severe distress

Final Thoughts

Spring in Australia can be tough for allergy-sensitive dogs, but there’s a lot you can do: reduce exposure, soothe skin, and support from the inside out with herbs and nutrition. With patience, consistency, and holistic care, your dog can enjoy the sunshine and blossoms with more comfort.

References

Fronte, B., Pistoia, C., Saleri, R., & Caldin, M. (2024). Plant extracts in canine nutrition: A review of effects on health, performance, and welfare. Veterinary Sciences, 11(9), 426. https://doi.org/10.3390/vetsci11090426

Lolahemp. (n.d.). Herbal allergy relief options for dogs: Top picks. Retrieved September 20, 2025, from https://lolahemp.com/blogs/dog-health/herbal-allergy-relief-options-for-dogs-top-picks

PetMD. (n.d.). Seasonal allergies in dogs: Causes, symptoms, and treatment. Retrieved September 20, 2025, from https://www.petmd.com/dog/conditions/skin/seasonal-allergies-dogs

Roberts, R. (2023). Canine herbal medicine: How to use herbs for your dog’s health naturally. Dr Ruth Roberts. Retrieved September 20, 2025, from https://drruthroberts.com/blogs/pet-blog/canine-herbal-medicine-how-to-use-herbs-for-your-dog-s-health-naturally

The Dog Witch. (n.d.). Herbs and supplements to soothe your dog’s allergies naturally. Retrieved September 20, 2025, from https://thedogwitch.co.uk/herbs-and-supplements-to-soothe-your-dogs-allergies-naturally

Total Vet Care. (n.d.). Is your dog suffering from seasonal allergies? Retrieved September 20, 2025, from https://total.vet/dog-allergy-seasonal/

Allergy Gate. (n.d.). Best herbs for dogs. Retrieved September 20, 2025, from https://allergygate.com/best-herbs-for-dogs