We all know that, just like humans, dogs can suffer from allergies. In fact, they’re one of the top (if not the top) reasons for vet visits.
Whether it’s seasonal pollen, dust mites, or certain foods, allergic reactions in dogs often result in itching, sneezing, or skin irritation. These symptoms are caused by the release of histamines in the body, which are normal but can become problematic when overproduced.
Fortunately, natural antihistamines for dogs can help reduce allergic reactions without the need for synthetic medications. In this blog, we’ll explore what histamines are, when they become an issue, and some natural antihistamines found in foods and herbs that can help relieve your dog’s discomfort.
What is Histamine?
Histamine is a natural compound produced by the body as part of its immune response. In dogs (and humans), histamine plays a role in regulating immune function, digestion, and even neurotransmission. It is stored in certain cells, such as mast cells, and is released when the immune system detects a potential threat, such as allergens like pollen, dust, or certain foods.
When the body encounters an allergen, histamines are released into the bloodstream, causing inflammation and other allergy symptoms like itching, redness, swelling, and watery eyes. While histamine release is a normal defense mechanism, it can cause significant discomfort when it overreacts to non-threatening substances.
When Does Histamine Become an Issue?
Histamine becomes a problem when the immune system overreacts to harmless substances, such as pollen, dander, or certain foods. This overreaction leads to excessive histamine release, triggering symptoms that can make your dog miserable. Common signs of allergies in dogs include:
- Itchy skin (often seen in conditions like atopic dermatitis)
- Excessive licking or chewing at the skin, paws, or ears
- Sneezing or watery eyes
- Inflamed or red skin
- Digestive issues, like vomiting or diarrhea, in the case of food allergies
If your dog is showing these signs, their body may be producing too much histamine in response to allergens, and natural antihistamines could offer relief.
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Natural Antihistamines for Dogs
Natural antihistamines for dogs can help calm your animal’s immune response and reduce the uncomfortable symptoms of allergies. These natural remedies can be found in a variety of foods and herbs and may provide a gentler alternative to over-the-counter allergy medications.
Here are some natural antihistamines for dogs that can help your adored beast:
1. Quercetin
Quercetin is a flavonoid found in many fruits and vegetables, including apples, berries, and broccoli. Known as “nature’s Benadryl,” quercetin has anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and antihistamine properties. It works by inhibiting the release of histamines from mast cells, helping to reduce itching, swelling, and other allergic reactions.
- How to use it: You can find quercetin supplements formulated for dogs, or use a pure human supplement. If you buy a human supplement, makes sure it only contains quercetin and consider the dosage as for a 150lb human and convert it to meet your dog’s weight. It can also be obtained naturally by incorporating quercetin-rich foods like blueberries into your dog’s diet.
2. Bromelain
Bromelain is an enzyme found in pineapples that has anti-inflammatory and antihistamine effects. It helps boost the absorption of quercetin in the body and can also reduce inflammation caused by allergic reactions. Bromelain is particularly helpful for soothing irritated skin and relieving swelling in dogs with allergies.
- How to use it: Bromelain is available in supplement form, often combined with quercetin. If you buy a human supplement, consider the dosage as for a 150lb human and convert it to meet your dog’s weight. You can also offer small amounts of fresh pineapple as an occasional treat, but be sure to avoid the tough core and skin.
3. Nettle Leaf
Nettle leaf is a herb traditionally used to treat seasonal allergies due to its natural antihistamine properties. It works by blocking histamine receptors, which can help reduce the severity of allergic reactions. Nettle leaf is also rich in antioxidants, which help support your dog’s overall health while fighting off inflammation.
- How to use it: Nettle leaf is available in dried or powdered form. It can be added right to your dog’s food. Like quercetin, if you buy a human supplement, make sure it doesn’t contain anything but nettle leaf, and consider the dosage as for a 150lb human and convert it to meet your dog’s weight.
4. Omega-3 Fatty Acids
Omega-3 fatty acids are known for their anti-inflammatory properties. They help reduce the body’s histamine response by calming inflammation in the skin and gut. Omega-3s are especially beneficial for dogs suffering from itchy skin, hot spots, or atopic dermatitis.
- How to use it: You can add an omega-3 supplement right to your dog’s food. Many commercial dog foods also include omega-3s, but if you’re looking to target allergies specifically, an additional supplement may provide more concentrated benefits.
5. Serum-derived Bovine Immunoglobulins
Serum-derived bovine immunoglobulins (SBI) is a bovine plasma isolate that contains the highest concentration of naturally sourced immunoglobulins available. Immunoglobulins are antibodies present in the body that latch onto invaders (think allergens), preventing them from entering cells, and then the body eliminates them. It helps regulate the immune system, which can reduce histamine production in allergic dogs. SBI has been shown to improve gut health and reduce symptoms of allergies by creating a stronger immune response to allergens.
- How to use it: Find an SBI supplement for dogs (like our Pawsitive Immunity), and add it to their food.
6. Licorice Root
Licorice root is a herb that can help soothe inflammation caused by allergic reactions, especially in the skin and respiratory system. It contains compounds that mimic the body’s natural corticosteroids, which reduce inflammation and calm histamine release.
- How to use it: Licorice root can be given as a tea or in powdered form mixed with food. You can also find it in supplements made for dogs, like our Gut Soothe. Again, if you buy a human supplement, consider the dosage as for a 150lb human and convert it to meet your dog’s weight.
While natural antihistamines can provide relief for dogs with allergies, start slow with any new supplement and work up to the recommended amount.
Histamine is a natural part of your dog’s immune system, but when it’s produced in excess, it can cause uncomfortable allergy symptoms. Thankfully, Mother Nature gives us solutions. There are several natural antihistamines for dogs that can help reduce the histamine response and provide relief. Explore these natural remedies to support your dog’s health in a gentle, holistic way.
