Vets Say 2026 Could Be the Worst Spring Allergy Season Yet for Dogs — Here's How to Help

If your dog has been scratching, licking their paws, or shaking their head more than usual lately, you're not imagining things — and you're definitely not alone.

Spring 2026 is shaping up to be one of the most intense allergy seasons in years, and it's not just humans who are suffering. Veterinarians across the country are seeing a surge in itchy, uncomfortable dogs, and experts say the trend is only accelerating.

Here's what's driving it, which dogs are most at risk, and exactly what you can do to keep your pup comfortable this spring.

Why 2026 Is Looking Like a Brutal Allergy Year

According to AccuWeather's 2026 allergy forecast, pollen is already ramping up across the South and West — and it's heading north fast. The Ohio Valley is expected to be one of the hardest-hit regions for tree pollen this year, while cities like Minneapolis, Chicago, and St. Louis are bracing for an especially intense grass pollen season fueled by above-average rainfall and warmer-than-normal temperatures.

"A combination of above-average rainfall and some warmer weather will bring much higher grass pollen levels," AccuWeather Senior Meteorologist Alan Reppert said in the forecast, noting that grass responds quickly to moisture and warmth — and pollen levels can spike just as fast.

A separate analysis from Climate Central paints an even more sobering picture: pollen seasons across North America now start 20 days earlier and last 10 days longer than they did in 1990, with 21% more pollen during each season. Higher levels of CO2 in the atmosphere are actually boosting pollen production in plants — and one 2022 study suggests the U.S. could face up to a 200% increase in pollen production by the end of this century.

For the roughly 20% of dogs who suffer from environmental allergies, that's a lot more discomfort headed their way.

Dog Allergies Are Surging — And the Numbers Prove It

It's not just anecdotal. Pet insurance giant Trupanion released data showing that allergy-related pet claims have increased 7% nationwide over the past five years — and by as much as 35% in states like New York, Massachusetts, and Texas. In just one year, Trupanion processed more than 327,800 allergy and ear infection claims.

"Skin allergies — which can be a common underlying factor in ear infections — tend to be the most common type of allergy," says Dr. Sarah Rose, a Trupanion veterinarian. "They can be caused by everything from environmental particles like dust or pollen, to parasites like fleas, to food sensitivities like wheat or dairy."

Dogs file 8 times as many allergy claims as cats, according to Trupanion's data — and claims spike twice a year, during late spring/early summer (May through July) and again in October.

That spring spike? It's right around the corner.

How Dog Allergies Are Different From Yours

Here's the thing most dog owners don't realize: while you might be sneezing and reaching for tissues, your dog's allergies usually show up on their skin, not in their nose.

"Dogs with environmental allergies tend to be miserable," says Erin Tate, vice president of clinical development at CityVet in Dallas, who has been practicing for 25 years. "I tell people that if your allergies are flaring up, your dog's allergies are flaring up, too."

According to the Merck Veterinary Manual, airborne allergens like pollen get absorbed through your dog's skin rather than inhaled. That leads to symptoms that look very different from a typical human allergy attack:

• Excessive scratching, licking, or chewing — especially at the paws, belly, and ears
• Red, inflamed, or flaky skin
• Recurring ear infections (head shaking, scratching at ears, brown discharge)
• Watery or red eyes
• Hot spots or hair loss from constant scratching
• Scooting or licking the rear end

Environmental allergies typically first appear when a dog is between 6 months and 3 years old. And unlike food allergies, which are consistent year-round, seasonal allergies flare and fade with pollen levels — so if your dog gets worse every spring, pollen is almost certainly a factor.

Which Dogs Are Most at Risk?

While any dog can develop seasonal allergies, some breeds are genetically predisposed. According to veterinary sources including the Merck Veterinary Manual and TIME Magazine, breeds with the highest allergy rates include:

• Labrador Retrievers
• Golden Retrievers
• French Bulldogs and English Bulldogs
• West Highland White Terriers
• German Shepherds
• Boxers
• Cocker Spaniels
• Shih Tzus
• Chinese Shar-Peis
• Boston Terriers

Allergies also look different across breeds. German Shepherds tend to develop crusts around their lips, while Labs often get bumps between their toes. Bulldogs frequently battle chronic ear infections. And Trupanion's data shows Cocker Spaniels, English Bulldogs, and West Highland White Terriers have the most allergy claims of any breed.

What You Can Do Right Now

The good news? There are more effective treatments for dog allergies now than ever before. Here's what vets recommend:

At-Home Relief

• Wipe your dog down after walks. Use a damp cloth or pet-safe wipe on their paws, belly, and face to remove pollen before it absorbs into their skin.
• Time your walks. Pollen counts tend to be highest at midday. Walk your dog early in the morning or later in the evening when counts are lower.
• Bathe regularly with a medicated shampoo. Ask your vet about oatmeal-based or anti-itch shampoos. Weekly baths during peak season can make a big difference.
• Keep windows closed on high-pollen days and run air conditioning or air purifiers.
• Wash your dog's bedding weekly in hot water to remove pollen that's settled.
• Maintain a clean yard. Keep grass short and manage weeds to reduce pollen sources near your home.

Veterinary Treatments

If at-home care isn't enough, talk to your vet about these options:

• Apoquel (oclacitinib) — An oral tablet that targets the specific enzymes causing itch and inflammation. Can provide relief within 4 hours and is approved for dogs 1 year and older.
• Cytopoint (lokivetmab) — An injectable treatment that neutralizes the itch signal before it reaches the brain. One shot lasts 4-8 weeks and can be used on dogs of all ages.
• Allergy testing and immunotherapy — Skin or blood tests can identify your dog's specific triggers, and custom allergy shots or oral drops can desensitize them over time.
• Prescription diets — If food allergies are also in play, your vet may recommend an elimination diet.

Important note: If your dog's itching is severe, causing open sores, or accompanied by ear infections, don't wait — see your vet. Untreated allergies can lead to secondary skin infections that require antibiotics.

The Climate Connection: Why This Is Getting Worse

The uncomfortable truth is that dog allergy seasons are getting worse because of climate change — and they're not going back to "normal" anytime soon.

"Climate change is affecting humans and dogs," Tate says. "Allergy season has been extended because of climate change and the dramatic change in temperatures."

In many parts of the country, brief warm spells in winter cause plants to bloom early, followed by cold snaps, followed by more blooming. "Nothing ever gets a chance to die," Tate adds. The result is a pollen season that starts earlier, lasts longer, and produces more allergens than ever before.

A 2018 report from Banner Pet Hospital found a 30% increase in canine environmental allergy cases over the previous decade. Anecdotally, vets say the numbers have continued climbing since. "Allergic skin disease is probably the top thing we see," Tate says.

The Bottom Line

If your dog seems more uncomfortable than usual this spring, trust your instincts. The 2026 pollen season is expected to be intense, and your pup may need a little extra help getting through it.

Start with simple prevention — wipe those paws, time your walks, keep things clean — and don't hesitate to call your vet if symptoms persist. With the right plan, most dogs with seasonal allergies can live comfortably, even in the worst pollen years.

Looking for more ways to keep your dog happy and healthy? Sidewalk Dog is your go-to resource for everything from dog-friendly city guides to the latest in canine health and wellness. Sign up for our newsletter to get trusted dog care tips delivered straight to your inbox.