Top 10 Allergies That Affect Both Dogs and Their Owners
Dog Care

Top 10 Allergies That Affect Both Dogs and Their Owners

James Gray September 12, 2024

Allergies can affect everyone in a household, whether they walk on two legs or four. Dogs and their owners often share the same living spaces, which means they are exposed to many of the same allergens. These common allergens can lead to a range of symptoms from mild discomfort to more severe health issues for both humans and animals. Below is a list of the top 10 allergies that affect both Dogs and their owners, along with more detailed information on each.

1. Pollen

Pollen is one of the most common allergens, and it can be a nightmare for both Dogs and people. Pollen from trees, grasses, and weeds is most prevalent during the spring, summer, and early fall, although the specific season can vary depending on the location.

  • In Humans: Pollen causes what is commonly known as hay fever. Symptoms include sneezing, itchy or watery eyes, a runny or stuffy nose, and respiratory issues like coughing or wheezing. For some people, pollen can also trigger asthma attacks.
  • In Pets: Dogs often react to pollen by scratching, licking their paws excessively, and developing red, irritated skin. They may also experience watery eyes and sneezing, similar to human reactions. Pets may develop chronic skin conditions like hot spots due to persistent scratching.

While over-the-counter medications like antihistamines can provide relief for humans, dogs may require prescription allergy medications, special shampoos, or even allergy shots in severe cases.

2. Dust Mites

Dust mites are microscopic organisms that thrive in warm, humid environments, particularly in bedding, carpets, and upholstered furniture. They are a common household allergen and can be tough to eliminate.

  • In Humans: Dust mites can trigger allergic reactions that include sneezing, nasal congestion, itchy eyes, and coughing. Some individuals with asthma may experience worsening symptoms, such as shortness of breath or wheezing.
  • In Pets: Dogs can develop an allergic reaction to dust mites, often manifesting as intense itching and frequent scratching. Pets may lick their paws or develop red, inflamed skin, particularly on their belly, paws, or face. They might also experience chronic ear infections or hot spots.

Frequent vacuuming, washing bedding in hot water, and using dust mite covers for pillows and mattresses can help reduce exposure for both pets and humans. Specialized air purifiers may also be useful in reducing airborne mites.

3. Mould

Mould spores thrive in damp environments like bathrooms, basements, or even areas outside that are frequently wet. Exposure to mold can lead to a range of allergic reactions.

  • In Humans: Symptoms include sneezing, coughing, nasal congestion, itchy or watery eyes, and in more severe cases, mold exposure can exacerbate asthma symptoms or lead to chronic respiratory issues. Mould exposure may also trigger headaches and fatigue in sensitive individuals.
  • In Pets: Dogs can suffer from mould allergies too, with reactions often showing up as skin irritation, itching, and ear infections. In more severe cases, mold exposure can cause respiratory issues in pets, such as sneezing, coughing, and wheezing.

To reduce mould in the home, ensure proper ventilation in damp areas, regularly clean bathrooms and basements, and use dehumidifiers to keep humidity levels low. If mould is visible, it should be removed promptly to prevent further allergic reactions.

4. Fleas

Fleas are not only a nuisance but also a major cause of allergic reactions in pets. Flea saliva is the primary allergen, and pets who are allergic to it may develop a condition called flea allergy dermatitis (FAD).

  • In Humans: While humans aren’t allergic to flea saliva in the same way pets are, flea bites can still cause itchy red bumps, often on the ankles or lower legs. In sensitive individuals, flea bites may lead to more severe allergic reactions, including hives or larger red patches of skin.
  • In Pets: For animals, flea bites can be a nightmare. Dogs with FAD will scratch, bite, and lick their skin incessantly, often leading to hair loss, sores, and secondary skin infections. Even a single flea bite can set off an allergic reaction in sensitive Dogs.

Preventing fleas is key. Regular use of flea prevention treatments, both on pets and in the home, can minimize the risk of an infestation. Regular grooming and vacuuming can also help keep fleas at bay.

5. Food Allergies

Just like humans, Dogs can suffer from food allergies. These allergies are often triggered by proteins in the food, such as chicken, beef, or lamb, though grains like wheat or corn can also be culprits.

  • In Humans: Common food allergies in humans include reactions to nuts, dairy, eggs, soy, and gluten. Symptoms range from mild reactions like hives or itching to more severe symptoms such as swelling of the throat, difficulty breathing, and gastrointestinal issues.
  • In Dogs: Food allergies in pets often result in gastrointestinal symptoms such as vomiting, diarrhea, or gas. However, more commonly, pets show signs through their skin, such as chronic ear infections, itchy skin, hair loss, and frequent licking or chewing of paws. The most common allergens for pets are proteins found in meat, dairy, or grains.

If food allergies are suspected in your dog, a vet may recommend an elimination diet to identify the specific allergen. Similarly, humans need to avoid foods that trigger allergic reactions and may need to carry medications like antihistamines or epinephrine for severe reactions.

6. Animal Dander

Animal dander, which consists of tiny, even microscopic, flakes of skin shed by cats, dogs, and other animals, is a major cause of allergies in humans. However, pets can also be allergic to dander from other animals.

  • In Humans: For many people, dander causes sneezing, itchy or watery eyes, runny nose, and congestion. In more sensitive individuals, exposure to animal dander can lead to respiratory issues or asthma flare-ups.
  • In Pets: Interestingly, dogs can develop allergies to the dander of other animals, especially in multi-pet households. A cat may be allergic to the dander of a dog, or vice versa. Symptoms in pets include sneezing, itchy skin, and respiratory problems.

To minimize dander, frequent grooming of your dog, regular vacuuming, and the use of air purifiers can help. For humans with severe dander allergies, hypoallergenic breeds or keeping pets out of bedrooms might provide some relief.

7. Household Cleaning Products

Many common household cleaning products contain chemicals that can cause allergic reactions in both humans and pets. This includes products like detergents, disinfectants, and air fresheners.

  • In Humans: Symptoms can range from mild skin irritation to more severe respiratory issues like coughing, wheezing, and difficulty breathing. Certain chemicals in cleaners can also cause headaches, dizziness, and eye irritation.
  • In Pets: Dogs, especially those that walk on floors cleaned with chemical products, can experience paw irritation, excessive licking, and skin rashes. In some cases, inhaling the fumes from cleaning products can cause respiratory problems, such as coughing or sneezing.

Switching to dog-safe, eco-friendly cleaning products can reduce the risk of allergic reactions. Always ensure that cleaning products are completely dry before allowing pets to walk on cleaned surfaces.

8. Fragrances (Perfumes and Air Fresheners)

Strong scents from perfumes, candles, and air fresheners can trigger allergies or sensitivities in both humans and dogs.

  • In Humans: Many people experience headaches, sneezing, and irritation of the throat or nose when exposed to strong fragrances. In some cases, perfumes and scented products can trigger asthma attacks or respiratory distress.
  • In Pets: Dogs often react to strong fragrances by sneezing, coughing, or developing irritated skin. Cats, in particular, may be more sensitive to air fresheners or scented sprays, often showing respiratory symptoms like wheezing or difficulty breathing.

Using unscented or hypoallergenic products can help minimize these reactions. Ensure that pets have good ventilation and access to fresh air if you use any scented products in the home.

9. Cigarette Smoke

Cigarette smoke contains numerous harmful chemicals that can affect both humans and pets. Secondhand smoke can trigger allergies, respiratory issues, and more serious health conditions.

  • In Humans: Exposure to cigarette smoke can cause coughing, wheezing, shortness of breath, and other respiratory symptoms. Long-term exposure is linked to more serious conditions like lung cancer, heart disease, and chronic bronchitis.
  • In Pets: Dogs exposed to secondhand smoke may develop coughing, sneezing, and respiratory issues. Cats are particularly susceptible to smoke-related health issues, such as asthma or even lung cancer. Pets may also lick smoke particles off their fur, leading to gastrointestinal irritation or worse.

Quitting smoking and keeping homes smoke-free are the best ways to protect both human and pet health. Smoke-free environments benefit everyone, and if quitting isn’t an option, smoking outdoors away from pets can minimize exposure.

10. Chemical Pollutants

Chemical pollutants from paints, solvents, and other volatile organic compounds (VOCs) can easily cause allergic reactions or sensitivities.

  • In Humans: Exposure to these chemicals often leads to headaches, nausea, dizziness, and respiratory issues. Long-term exposure to VOCs can lead to more serious health concerns, including damage to the liver, kidneys, and central nervous system.
  • In Pets: Pets are often more vulnerable to chemical pollutants because of their proximity to floors and surfaces. Inhalation of VOCs can cause respiratory distress in pets, while skin contact with chemical-laden surfaces may result in irritation or rashes.

To reduce exposure, use low-VOC or VOC-free paints and cleaning products. Ensure rooms are well-ventilated when painting or using chemical products, and keep pets out of the area until it’s safe for them to return.