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As with people, dogs, too, can suffer from allergies. Allergies can be frustrating for both the dog and the owner. Fortunately, once the offending allergen has been identified, the allergies can be controlled and treated.

Misconceptions

Many people would assume that since grass pollen is an inhaled allergen the symptoms would be similar to those of a person. However, dogs do not suffer from runny noses or sneezing but rather deal with skin-related reactions.

Symptoms

Symptoms of canine allergies include ear infections, mutilated skin and hair loss, as well certain behaviors exhibited by your dog such as scratching, rubbing its face on the carpet or on furniture and chewing on its feet.

Diagnosis

To determine that grass pollen is the offending allergen, the dog will need to undergo several tests, including a physical exam, blood tests and intradermal testing. Intradermal testing involves injecting various potential allergens into the skin to determine the offending allergen.

Treatment

Dogs who are allergic to grass pollen may receive topical shampoos and sprays that help provide temporary relief for itching, along with the addition of omega-3 fatty acids to the dog's diet to improve the overall quality of its coat. Antihistamines may also be used to reduce the symptoms and improve the overall quality of life for the affected dog.

Prevention

Unfortunately, grass pollen is difficult to control. Owners are recommended to keep grass cut short, rinse the dog's feet and legs after going outside and to have the dog stay inside when pollen counts are elevated.

Excessive itching, hair loss, wheezing and sneezing are all signs off allergies in dogs. While it may sound a little strange, a dog can suffer from an allergy to grass just like a person can. If you notice Fido exhibiting any of these symptoms every time he runs through the yard playing, it is important to get him checked out by a veterinarian for a grass allergy so you can begin proper treatment.

Prevention

1. Keep the grass in your yard mowed short and limit the dog's exposure to tall grasses and weeds. If possible, create an area for the dog that is primarily gravel or sand to reduce her interaction with grass.
2. Wipe down the dog's body with a damp rag before bringing him back into the house. This will help remove some of the grass pollen that can cling to his fur, and help reduce the amount of irritation he experiences.
3. Monitor your dog at all times when she is in an area filled with grass. If you see the dog rolling around in the grass, use a training command to stop the action. Over time, this may help deter the behavior and prevent future rolls in the hay.
4. Vacuum your home and wash any dog bedding frequently to help remove grass pollens carried in by pets and people.

Medication for Treatment

1. Provide your dog with a daily supplement of Omega-3 and Omega-6 fatty acids. Premium dog foods may already contain these nutrients, so check the label first as additional supplementation may not be necessary. These supplements will help keep the skin and coat healthy, and reduce some skin irritation.
2. Ask your veterinarian about providing an antihistamine for your pet to help provide him with allergy relief. Some over-the-counter antihistamines can be used for dogs, but you must provide the proper dosage determined by your veterinarian
3. Use steroids such as prednisone as a last resort, and only in severe grass allergy cases. Long-term use of steroids for allergy treatment can interfere with your dog's immune system and can actually make your dog more aggressive
4. Contact your veterinarian immediately if any of the grass allergy symptoms worsen, or if your dog scratches herself to the point of bleeding. Excessive scratching and biting can result in a skin infection that must be treated with antibiotics immediately.