Are you looking for a natural anti-histamine for dog allergies? Quercetin is a bioflavonoid that acts as an antihistamine for dogs and has antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. Many veterinarians suggest Benadryl or Apoquel for allergies in dogs.
Apple cider vinegar, coconut oil, or aloe vera can be put on the skin to calm any itching. A relaxing oatmeal bath can relieve itching, burning, and dry skin.
But in our pets, quercetin is most often used to help with the itchiness, inflammation, and discomfort caused by allergies. It is commonly referred to as “nature's Benadryl” due to its natural anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and antihistamine properties.
Benadryl is a great medication for use in dogs with mild-to-moderate allergies. Seasonal allergies, food allergies, environmental allergies, and allergic reactions to snake and insect bites all respond to Benadryl in most cases.
Chamomile and Herbal Tea Soaks
Chamomile, calendula, and green tea have properties that soothe and cool irritated skin and reduce inflammation, making them great additions in a dog bath for itchy skin. These soaks are best for dogs who have hot, itchy patches of skin that are at risk of getting rubbed raw.
Antihistamines are usually safe but can make some dogs drowsy and others hyperactive. OTC antihistamine preparations may contain other ingredients such as decongestants that are not safe for dogs. Read the label carefully to ensure that the product only contains antihistamine.
The most common antihistamine for dogs is diphenhydramine (brand name Benadryl). Also found in ProSense Dog Itch & Allergy Solutions Tablets, diphenhydramine is safe in most dogs if given in the recommended dosage of 1 mg of diphenhydramine per pound of body weight given by mouth.
Apoquel starts relieving allergic dog itch and inflammation due to skin allergies within 4 hours — and controls it within 24 hours. The #1 prescribed medicine for allergic itch in dogs.
Fexofenadine, commonly known as Allegra® or Telfast®, is a second generation antihistamine drug that may be used for dogs and cats to control itching and other signs related to allergic conditions. Fexofenadine is considered less sedating than other antihistamines.
Baking Soda becomes thick when mixed with water and it can dry out skin's rashes. It is also an effective dog itching relief while decreasing inflammation and redness. Apply the mixture or paste to the itchy part and leave it for 20 minutes before rinsing it completely.
Antihistamines like Benadryl and Zyrtec
ANTI-histamines, such as diphenhydramine (Benadryl®), certirizine (Zyrtec®), and hydroxyzine, are commonly taken by humans to treat allergy symptoms and can be used for dogs as well. These medications work by preventing histamine from binding to cells and exerting its effects.
Apple Cider Vinegar can be added to your dog's diet to support him through an allergy reaction internally and it can also be used topically for particularly itchy or inflamed skin during allergy season.
Apple Cider Vinegar Water Spray
If your pet has itchy skin, this concoction of 50/50 water and ACV spray can help relieve your pet's skin allergies or irritation. This home remedy can also be used in a bath format. Fill up a small container with equal parts water and apple cider vinegar and soak your pet's paws in it.
Apple Cider Vinegar For Dog Skin Allergies
ACV can help relieve itchy skin and rashes caused by yeast and poison ivy. The best way to apply it is by making a 50/50 solution of apple cider vinegar and water in a spray bottle. Apply it directly onto itchy spots. Caution: Do NOT put it on open wounds.
Official answer. According to the American Kennel Club (AKC), you can give the antihistamine Benadryl (diphenhydramine) to your dog, but you should always check with your vet first.
Benadryl Ultratabs
This well-known antihistamine is most veterinarians go-to OTC option. Dogs who take Benadryl typically don't get as sleepy as humans do and tolerate it well, but it's important to check with your veterinarian about the ideal dosage based on your dog's weight.
Cetirizine (Zyrtec® or Reactine®) is one of the most commonly used over-the-counter antihistamines recommended by veterinarians. Claritin® can be used but is not typically recommended by veterinarians as some forms of Claritin® contain decongestants such as pseudoephedrine which is very toxic to dogs.
If your dog is constantly itchy and scratching to the point of hair loss and redness, this is considered pruritus. It can be in one certain area or the whole body. Itching may be caused by several disorders, such as contact dermatitis, allergy, and infection.
The 10 mg pills are okay for dogs between 10 and 50 lbs, though 5-10 lb dogs should only take half (or a 5-mg tablet.) Canines who exceed 50 lbs may take up to two 10 mg tablets if necessary. Dogs under 5 lbs should only take a quarter of a 10 mg tablet or half of a 5 mg pill.
Apple cider vinegar is made from just apples and water, making it completely safe for dogs. It is slightly acidic, with a pH of 3.1 to 5, which gives it properties that can soothe a dog's overly alkalized digestive tract. Add a teaspoon of ACV to your dog's water bowl and see if he'll drink it!
Immunotherapy. You can "train" your immune system not to be sensitive to an allergen. Immunotherapy is delivered through a series of allergy shots. One to 2 weekly shots expose you to very small doses of the allergen, in this case, the animal protein that causes an allergic reaction.
Acetic acid is antifungal, anti-bacterial, and anti-viral. When you use white vinegar for your dog's itchy skin, it clears bacteria from skin infections. White vinegar also helps other conditions like acne, seborrheic dermatitis, eczema, and yeast.