Dust mites are a common household allergen for humans and pets. If you have a dog with a dust mite allergy, it can be a frustrating and challenging condition to manage. However, there are steps you can take to reduce the number of dust mites and their allergens in your home, which can help to minimize your dog’s dust mite allergy flare-ups.

What are Dust Mites? 

Dust mites are microscopic arthropods that feed on flakes of human and animal skin. They are the most common household allergen for humans, and their body parts and feces also commonly cause allergies in dogs. Dust mite allergy symptoms are caused by the immune system reacting to these allergens. Dust mites are commonly found in the sleeping areas of people and pets.  

How Common Are Dust Mite Allergies in Dogs? 

Dust mite allergies among dogs are common and most frequently seen in dogs over three months old. Certain breeds, including French Bulldogs, English Bulldogs,  German Shepherds, Miniature Schnauzers, Pugs, Retrievers, Setters, and Terriers, may be more susceptible to dust mite allergies. 

Related: What’s the Best Shampoo for Dogs with Skin Folds and Allergies?  

What Are Symptoms of Dust Mite Allergies in Dogs?

Sensitivity to house dust mites is a common problem for dogs, cats, and people. In dogs, the most common symptoms include constant itching, scratching, and excessive licking, which can lead to red and oozing skin, rash, redness, and inflammation. Many allergic dogs also experience watery eyes and runny noses, and some may also have digestive problems.

Help Your Dog Find Relief from Dust Mite Allergy Symptoms

If you suspect that your dog has a dust mite allergy, it's essential to take action. The first step is to consult with your veterinarian, who can help determine whether dust mites are indeed the culprit and recommend a course of treatment. While it's not possible to completely eliminate dust mites from your home environment, there are several things you can do to reduce their numbers and minimize your dog's exposure to them. 

Here are some things you can incorporate into your weekly routine to reduce the number of dust mites (and their allergens) inside your home. 

• Regular bathing is an effective way to prevent allergy triggers from allergens, including mites, that are caught in your dog’s fur. Using a hypoallergenic pet shampoo can help eliminate pet dander and relieve skin problems caused by dust mites and dust mite allergies.
• Collars, harnesses, and leashes should be washed regularly to remove dust mite allergens along with all the dirt and grime that’s built up in the fibers. Most collars can be cleaned by soaking in water with a bit of hypoallergenic laundry detergent, thoroughly rinsing under running water, and laying flat to dry. Remember, your dog’s collar touches his skin, so you want to ensure it’s free from anything that can cause symptoms. Follow the manufacturer's instructions on how best to care for your dog’s gear. 

• Vacuuming carpets, rugs, and upholstery frequently (ideally two to three times a week) helps reduce dust mite populations. It's essential to use a vacuum with a sealed high-efficiency particulate air (HEPA) filter to capture tiny particles, including dust, pollen, and even tobacco smoke. After vacuuming, spray carpets, rugs, and upholstery with DustmiteX Solution to eliminate any remaining dust mites and their allergens.
• Maintaining a frequent cleaning schedule is crucial, with the average human shedding enough dead skin every day to feed one million of these microscopic critters. Use a damp microfiber cloth to remove dust from furniture, shelves, windowsills, and other dust-prone areas around your home to avoid allergens going airborne.
• For extra dust mite-busting power, use The Ecology Works Anti-Allergen Solution to neutralize dust mite allergens on hard surfaces after cleaning or spray it onto a microfiber cloth to wipe down hard and soft surfaces. The hypoallergenic formula renders common household allergens, including dust mite allergens and pet dander, harmless to allergy sufferers.
• Dust mites thrive in bedding, so it's essential to wash your dog's bed weekly to keep allergens from getting to his skin. It’s important to use an anti-allergen laundry detergent, otherwise, dust mite allergens will be left behind and can continue to cause symptoms.

Deep Clean to Keep Dust Mites At Bay 

Did you know? Dust mite allergens can accumulate in soft surfaces like carpets, upholstery, mattresses, and window treatments. If your dog has a dust mite allergy, thoroughly cleaning these items every few months will help keep the dust mite allergen levels low in your home. Fortunately, The Ecology Works Dust Mite & Flea Control offers a reliable solution. Made from a specially-formulated natural borate compound that mixes easily in water, this product provides long-lasting control over dust mites (and fleas) on soft surfaces.  

How to Use The Ecology Works Dustmite & Flea Control

Apply The Ecology Works Dustmite & Flea Control directly, mix it with water, and apply it via a spray bottle, or use it in the tank of a hot water vacuum. For best results, we recommend using a carpet cleaner or hot water extractor in combination with The Ecology Works Dustmite & Flea Control to ensure thorough cleaning of your carpets, upholstery, mattresses, and window treatments. 

Related: The Ecology Works Guide for Pets and Owners with Allergies

Final Thoughts

Dust mite allergies are a common issue for dogs, but there are plenty of steps you can take to reduce their exposure to these allergens. Consult with your veterinarian to confirm the diagnosis and then take action to reduce your dog's exposure to dust mites. Regular bathing, frequent washing of bedding, deep cleaning of carpets and upholstery, and the use of a vacuum with a HEPA filter are all effective ways to reduce dust mite populations. By taking these steps, you can help alleviate your dog's allergy symptoms and improve his overall health and well-being.

Need help with using The Ecology Works products for indoor environmental allergen control? Don't hesitate to get in touch with us! Contact us now!