Allergies in Dogs

Allergic to house dust mites – what can you do?

If your dog keeps scratching, it might be more than just dry skin. Allergies often arise from a combination of genetic predisposition and environmental factors. An allergy is essentially a misdirection of the immune system: harmless substances such as mites or pollen are misinterpreted as dangerous – and the body reacts with inflammation.

Allergens enter the body through breathing, eating, or contact with the skin. During the first exposure, the immune system becomes sensitised; upon the next contact, it overreacts – and the symptoms appear.

At a glance:

• Allergies = misreaction of the immune system
• Common symptoms: itching, redness, hair loss
• Typical areas: face, ears, belly, paws
• Year-round symptoms with dust mite allergies

Typical symptoms & diagnosis

While humans often suffer from hay fever or asthma, dogs tend to show allergic reactions through their skin. Typical signs include severe itching, redness, and hair loss – especially in less hairy areas such as the face, ears, belly, and paws.

Frequent scratching or licking can lead to small wounds that may become infected with bacteria or yeast. Dogs allergic to house dust mites show symptoms all year round – especially from August to November when humidity rises.

To make a reliable diagnosis, your vet will first rule out other causes such as parasites, fungal or bacterial infections. The dog’s medical history also helps: do symptoms appear seasonally or year-round? Are certain breeds predisposed? If other causes are excluded and medication eases the itching, the diagnosis “allergy” is confirmed.

Measures against house dust mite allergies

The goal is to make the living conditions of mites as unfavourable as possible, thereby reducing the allergen load in your home. Beds, dog cushions and upholstered furniture are the largest mite reservoirs because they provide warmth, moisture and shelter.

1. Washing at 95 °C

Washing at 95 °C reliably kills house dust and storage mites. Only use textiles that can withstand this temperature – chemical cleaning is unnecessary. Doctor Bark RedLabel dog sleeping surfaces are boil-proof up to 95 °C and are therefore ideal for dogs with allergies.

2. Dog beds & filling material

Avoid horsehair and basic foam mattresses – they retain moisture and encourage mould growth. Instead, choose breathable, hygienic materials that can be washed at high temperatures.

3. Cleaning toys

Plush and fabric toys can also harbour allergens. Wash them regularly as hot as possible – vacuuming alone is not enough. Tumble dryers or even freezing also help reduce mite numbers.

4. Keep dogs out of the bedroom

The mite concentration is highest in bedrooms. Allergic dogs should therefore not sleep in bed or even stay in the bedroom.

5. Carpets & floors

Carpets trap allergens. Smooth, wipeable floors are a better choice. If you prefer carpets, use small, washable ones.

6. Vacuuming & steam cleaning

Vacuuming stirs up mites – your dog should be out of the room during cleaning. A steam cleaner (over 100 °C) reliably kills mites; repeat this treatment every three months.

7. Acaricides from pharmacies & drugstores

Products containing benzyl benzoate can reduce mites by up to 70 %. Applying them two to four times a year helps to noticeably relieve symptoms.

8. Reduce humidity

Dry air disturbs mites – they retreat. Keep humidity low and avoid houseplants in areas where your dog spends time. Basements, bathrooms and laundry rooms should be off-limits for allergic dogs.

9. Adapt your furnishings

For dogs with allergies, leather furniture is ideal. Replace heavy curtains with light, washable fabrics. Cushions and blankets that can be washed at 95 °C ensure true hygienic cleanliness.

What really helps:

• Wash dog beds at 95 °C
• Clean toys regularly
• Keep humidity low
• No sleeping in the bedroom
• Use acaricides only as a supplement

Conclusion

With proper care, house dust mites can be significantly reduced. This relieves your dog’s symptoms and ensures long-term well-being, quality of life – and restful nights for both of you.

The Doctor Bark solution

Dogs with allergies – especially to house dust mites – need one thing above all: a clean, dry, mite-free sleeping surface. That’s exactly why we developed Doctor Bark dog beds, blankets and cushions.

Our fabrics are washable at 95 °C – killing mites, germs and allergens completely, without chemicals. The result: hygienic cleanliness that lasts.

The patented Back-to-Shape filling keeps the sleeping surface elastic, supportive and orthopaedic even after many washes. Your dog enjoys a healthy and comfortable rest – day after day, year after year.

Every Doctor Bark product is made in Germany with the greatest care – sustainable, durable and crafted with genuine dedication. For a home that stays clean, safe and fair.

Protection on the go: Doctor Bark car blankets

Mites don’t just live in homes – they thrive wherever it’s warm and damp, including in your car. After walks, rain or snow, moisture enters the vehicle and creates ideal conditions for mites and odours.

The Doctor Bark car blankets for the back seat or boot offer double protection: they keep your car clean, prevent unpleasant smells and create a hygienic, comfortable resting surface for your dog – wherever you go.

After every wash, the car blanket is once again free from dirt, odours and mites – just like the first day. Your car stays fresh and your dog travels safely and comfortably.

Our solution at a glance:

• Washable at 95 °C – completely removes mites, allergens and bacteria
• Patented filling – permanently shape-retaining
• Orthopaedic comfort – ideal for sensitive or allergic dogs
• Sustainable, repairable & Made in Germany
• Car blankets – hygienic protection for back seat & boot

After every wash, your dog’s sleeping surface is clean & fresh – just like the first day.

Life is Bark.