You’d expect to see your dog itching and sneezing in spring, but winter? That’s when many pet parents let their guard down. The truth? Allergies don’t stick to seasons, and winter can be just as brutal.
At VetLand Hospital and Emergency, we’re seeing a rise in itchy dogs lately. Ear infections, paw licking, skin flare-ups— living with an allergic pet can sometimes seem relentless.
Understanding why they’re itchy helps us all to understand how we can help.
Let’s break it down.
While springtime pollen steals the spotlight, winter comes with its own allergy culprits—many of them right inside your home.
It is very common that dogs licking at their feet can be dismissed as ’boredom’. However, licking and chewing as a behavioural problem is quite rare. Have you considered whether allergies could be at play?
Allergic reactions don’t always look dramatic. They sneak in and slowly crescendo into relentless itchiness.
These symptoms can escalate fast. Once your dog starts licking or scratching, bacteria & fungi are quick to take advantage, and things go from bad to worse quickly.
Here’s what we know: the sooner we catch it, the easier it is to manage.
Mild flare‑ups can often be soothed with:
Finally, reduce dust and moisture inside using HEPA filters or dehumidifiers to help prevent indoor allergens.
A strong skin-supportive diet can do more than most medications, especially long-term.
If you have an itchy poet and you’re not managing their diet, we’re missing a huge window to support them and reduce their reliance on medications.
Don’t fall for every label that promises “skin health.” What works best is personalised advice from your vet.
If your dog is licking, scratching, or shaking their head, it’s time to pay attention. Seasonal allergies come in all forms, and ignoring the early signs just prolongs the problem.
A small change now—a warm bath, a diet tweak, a vet check—can save months of discomfort.
Let’s stop the cycle early.
And if you’re not sure what’s normal or what’s too much? That’s what we’re here for.