As the leaves start to fall, so do the allergy defenses of many dogs. Allergies in autumn are common, with September kicking off a season of sniffles, scratching, and skin irritation for pups sensitive to environmental triggers — and you’re not imagining it.
If your dog seems itchier than usual this month, they might be reacting to autumn allergies. Let’s explore why this happens, what signs to look for, and how you can support your dog’s skin and immune health naturally — from the inside out.
What Causes Allergies in Autumn for Dogs?
Fall isn’t just pumpkin spice and cozy sweaters — it’s also prime time for allergens like ragweed, mold spores, and dust mites. These particles get trapped in your dog’s fur, paws, and skin folds, triggering irritation, inflammation, and excessive itching.
Here are the top culprits:
- Ragweed pollen: Peaks in early fall and lingers on fur and skin.
- Fallen leaves & moisture: Create mold hotspots that aggravate allergies.
- Indoor air shifts: Closed windows and heating systems stir up dust and dander.
If your dog’s symptoms spike every September, seasonal environmental allergies may be to blame.
Common Signs of Fall Allergies
Keep an eye out for these symptoms:
- Constant paw licking or chewing
- Itchy ears or frequent head shaking
- Red or inflamed skin
- Excessive scratching
- Watery eyes or sneezing
While these signs can also indicate food allergies or fleas, the seasonal pattern is a big clue.
How to Support Your Dog Naturally This Season
You don’t have to rely only on medications. A few simple lifestyle tweaks and functional treats can go a long way in calming fall allergies.
1. Wipe Down After Walks
Use a damp cloth to remove pollen and mold from your dog’s fur and paws.
2. Wash Bedding Frequently
Keep your dog’s environment allergen-free with weekly bedding washes and vacuuming.
3. Add Skin-Soothing Treats
Functional snacks rich in collagen, omega-3s, prebiotics, and natural antioxidants can strengthen your dog’s immune response and reduce skin flare-ups.
Try these from Crumps’ Naturals:
- Gutsy Calm Bites – Made with ashwagandha and reishi mushrooms to soothe seasonal stress and inflammation.
- Gutsy Balance Bites – Packed with prebiotics to support gut health, which plays a huge role in immune regulation.
- Chicken Collagen Jerky – Supports skin elasticity and reduces dryness and flaking naturally.
- Plaque Busters with Pumpkin Spice – Crunchy chews that support oral health while offering a seasonal twist!
When to Call Your Vet
If your dog is:
- Losing fur in patches
- Constantly shaking their head or has smelly ears
- Developing open sores or hot spots
…it’s time for a vet check. They can help determine if your dog needs antihistamines, allergy testing, or medicated shampoos.
Final Thoughts
Don’t let allergies in autumn steal the joy from fall adventures. With a little knowledge and a few natural tools — your pup can stay comfortable, itch-free, and ready to romp through every pile of leaves.
