š¾ Paw-scription Mondays: Herbal Remedies for Dog Allergies ā Natural Relief for Itchy Skin & Irritations šæš¶š¤§
- sczechowicz
- Jun 9
- 4 min read
Does your dog constantly scratch, lick their paws, or suffer from seasonal allergies? Just like humans, dogs can develop food allergies, environmental sensitivities, and skin irritations that cause itchiness, redness, hot spots, and discomfort.
While conventional treatments often include antihistamines and steroids, herbal remedies can naturally relieve allergy symptoms, reduce inflammation, and boost your dogās immune systemāwithout harsh side effects.
In this Paw-scription Monday guide, weāll explore the best herbs for dog allergies, how they work, and how to use them to help your pup feel calm, comfortable, and itch-free. š±š¾
š Common Causes of Allergies in Dogs
Dog allergies are often triggered by:
šØ Food Allergies ā Common culprits include wheat, dairy, soy, chicken, and beef.šØ Environmental Allergies ā Pollen, dust mites, mold, and grass can cause irritation.šØ Flea Allergy Dermatitis ā A reaction to flea saliva that leads to intense itching.šØ Chemical Sensitivities ā Harsh shampoos, cleaning products, and lawn treatments can cause skin reactions.
If your dog is experiencing chronic itching, rashes, or skin irritation, herbal remedies can provide natural relief!
šæ Best Herbs for Dog Allergies & Itchy Skin
1. Nettle (Urtica dioica) ā The Natural Antihistamine
Nettle is one of the best herbs for allergies because it acts as a natural antihistamine, reducing allergic reactions and skin inflammation.
š„ Benefits:ā Blocks histamine release, reducing itchinessā Supports healthy skin & coatā Flushes out toxins that contribute to allergic reactions
𦓠How to Use It:
Use dried nettle leaves (¼ tsp per 10 lbs) mixed in food.
Brew nettle tea and add to water or meals.
šØ Works best when used regularly during allergy season.
2. Quercetin ā The "Natural Benadryl"
Quercetin is a powerful antioxidant found in plants that helps block histamine release, making it a great natural alternative to antihistamines like Benadryl.
š„ Benefits:ā Reduces itchiness and inflammationā Helps with seasonal allergies & environmental triggersā Supports immune system function
𦓠How to Use It:
Available in quercetin supplementsāfollow dosage on the package.
Works best when combined with bromelain (from pineapples) for absorption.
šØ Avoid using quercetin in dogs with kidney disease.
3. Licorice Root (Glycyrrhiza glabra) ā The Natural Steroid Alternative
Licorice root contains anti-inflammatory compounds that act similarly to corticosteroids, reducing redness, swelling, and skin irritation.
š„ Benefits:ā Reduces inflammation and allergy symptomsā Supports skin healing and immune responseā Acts as a natural alternative to steroid medications
𦓠How to Use It:
Use licorice root tincture (2-5 drops per 10 lbs).
Works well in combination with nettles and quercetin.
šØ Do not use long-termāavoid in dogs with high blood pressure.
4. Calendula (Calendula officinalis) ā The Skin Soothing Herb
Calendula is perfect for external use on itchy, irritated skin, helping to calm inflammation and speed up healing.
š„ Benefits:ā Soothes hot spots, rashes, and woundsā Acts as a natural antiseptic for skin infectionsā Reduces redness and irritation
𦓠How to Use It:
Brew Calendula tea and use it as a cooling skin rinse.
Make a Calendula-infused coconut oil balm for dry, itchy skin.
šØ For external use onlyādo not let your dog lick too much of it.
5. Burdock Root (Arctium lappa) ā The Blood Cleanser
Burdock root is a powerful detox herb that helps remove toxins from the bloodstream, reducing chronic skin conditions and allergies.
š„ Benefits:ā Detoxifies the blood and liverā Helps with chronic itching and allergy-related skin conditionsā Supports healthy skin and coat
𦓠How to Use It:
Use burdock root powder (¼ tsp per 10 lbs).
Brew burdock root tea and add to meals.
šæ DIY Herbal Allergy Relief Blend for Dogs
If your dog suffers from seasonal allergies or chronic itching, try this homemade herbal blend to provide natural relief.
⨠DIY Herbal Allergy Powder
š« Ingredients:ā 2 tbsp Nettle Powder (natural antihistamine)ā 1 tbsp Quercetin Powder (histamine blocker)ā 1 tbsp Burdock Root Powder (blood detoxifier)ā ½ tbsp Licorice Root Powder (anti-inflammatory)
š Instructions:1ļøā£ Mix all ingredients and store in an airtight container.2ļøā£ Add ¼ tsp per 10 lbs of body weight to food daily.3ļøā£ Use for 2-4 weeks during allergy season.
šØ Start with a small amount and monitor for any reactions.
š When to Use Herbal Allergy Remedies for Dogs
šæ If your dog constantly licks or scratches their skinšæ For seasonal allergies (pollen, dust, grass, etc.)šæ If they suffer from food intolerances or sensitivitiesšæ To reduce inflammation and hot spotsšæ If they have flea allergy dermatitis
š„ Other Natural Ways to Reduce Allergies in Dogs
Along with herbal remedies, you can help reduce allergy symptoms naturally by:
ā Switching to a Hypoallergenic Diet ā Avoid common allergens like wheat, soy, dairy, and chicken.ā Providing Omega-3 Fatty Acids ā Fish oil reduces inflammation and improves skin health.ā Using a HEPA Air Filter ā Helps remove allergens from your home.ā Wiping Paws After Walks ā Reduces pollen and outdoor allergens.ā Using a Natural Flea Prevention Method ā Fleas are a common allergy trigger.
š How to Safely Use Herbs for Dog Allergies
šæ Introduce herbs slowly and monitor for any reactions.šæ Use high-quality, organic herbs for the best results.šæ Check with a holistic vet if your dog is on medication.šæ Do not use licorice root long-termābest for short-term allergy relief.

š¶ Final Thoughts: Natural Allergy Relief for a Happier, Itch-Free Dog
Allergies can make life miserable for your pup, but natural herbal remedies like Nettle, Quercetin, Licorice Root, Calendula, and Burdock Root can help provide relief from itching, inflammation, and irritationāwithout relying on pharmaceuticals!
š¾ Does your dog suffer from allergies? What natural remedies have worked for you? Let us know in the comments! ā¬ļø
Comments