Many dogs have allergies. Some dog allergies are to outdoor exposures such as pollen, while others are caused by indoor exposures, such as dust mites and mold.
Indoor allergies may appear to be seasonal or year-round. It can be difficult, if not impossible, to reduce exposure to outdoor allergens, but luckily there are steps you can take to reduce indoor allergens in your home.
When people say that their dog is allergic to the dog bed, what they usually mean is that their pet has indoor allergies. Dogs spend quite a bit of time in their beds, and there are many factors that go into choosing the right one, from size to comfort to durability. For dogs with indoor allergies, the right type of bed can be an even more important decision.
Dog Bed Material: What to Consider
The type of bed you choose for your dog is important.
Natural fibers like cotton or hemp are less likely to cause contact reactions than synthetic fibers or fibers treated with chemicals. Contact reactions are itchy, red spots in the area where your dog’s skin touches the fabric, usually on areas like the stomach that have little or no fur. Contact reactions can happen from the fabric, chemicals used on the fabric or even due to the detergent you use to clean the fabric.
On the other hand, synthetic fibers can inhibit the growth of bacteria and mold, and prevent accumulation of dust mites, which may be the source of your dog’s allergies. Synthetic fiber filling can help reduce allergic responses that lead to excessive licking, swollen paws and skin and ear infections. Dogs are unlikely to have an allergy to synthetic fibers.
Hypoallergenic fabrics either suppress the growth of bacteria and mold or prevent the accumulation of dust mites. Hypoallergenic bed covers are very finely woven fabrics that prevent dust mites from falling through onto the non-washable foam insert. This reduces your dog’s exposure to dust mites and other particles that may trigger her allergies.
Cleaning Your Dog’s Bed
Hygiene is probably the most important thing you can due to minimize your dog’s indoor allergies.
Frequent sweeping, vacuuming, dusting and mopping are some of the most basic yet effective ways to reduce the level of allergens inside your home. This includes vacuuming the couch and under your dog’s bed.
Washable covers, or a bed that is washable as a whole, are important for dogs who are prone to allergies. Bed covers contain not only dog hair, but also can accumulate dirt, dust mites and even flea eggs. If your dog has sensitive skin or allergies, wash the bed every time you wash your own bed sheets. For less sensitive dogs, every three months is sufficient.
You would never buy a blanket for your own bed that isn’t washable, so don’t make that mistake for your dog. An inexpensive bed that can’t be washed is wasteful because it needs to be replaced every three months. It is better for your wallet, your dog and the environment to invest in a washable dog bed or bed cover.
Bed Bugs: Protecting Your Dog From Fleas
If your dog is not protected from fleas, her bed can harbor flea eggs and larvae that will develop, then continue to bite and irritate your dog.
This is why is it important to keep your dog on flea prevention year-round. Many dogs with environmental allergies also have flea allergies. Luckily, it is easy and safe to prevent exposure to fleas with a prescription from your veterinarian.