Dog Allergies: What You Can Change at Home

If your dog has allergies, treatment should be discussed with your vet, but their environment can have a greater effect on the severity of symptoms than most owners realise.

Textiles are the main reservoir Dog beds, blankets and carpets trap dust mites, pollen and skin flakes. For dogs with allergies, wash the bed cover every two weeks at 30 °C without fabric softener, and allow it to dry completely.

Pollen season After each walk, wipe your dog's paws and tummy with a damp cloth. This is how much of the pollen enters your home before eventually settling in their bed.

Materials Smooth, tightly woven synthetic covers trap less dust than plush fabrics and are easier to wash. Loose, fibrous fillings are more difficult to clean than a solid foam core with a washable cover.

Air quality and vacuuming Vacuuming twice a week with a HEPA filter in rooms where your dog sleeps helps reduce exposure to dust mites.

When environmental changes are not enough If your dog licks their paws, scratches their ears or has recurring ear infections, this requires diagnosis and treatment by a vet. Changes to the home environment can help, but they are not a substitute for veterinary care.