When your dog has allergies, it can feel like you’re constantly trying new medications — and sometimes even the expensive prescription ones barely make a dent.
That’s why many pet parents eventually look into allergy shots, also known as immunotherapy. They’re the only drug-free option that can actually reduce — or even eliminate — environmental allergies long-term. In other words: no more endless prescriptions.
Here’s everything you need to know about how allergy shots work, what they cost and whether they might be right for your pup.
How Do Allergy Shots for Dogs Work?
Immunotherapy works differently from medications like Apoquel or Cytopoint. Instead of temporarily controlling symptoms, allergy shots retrain the immune system so your dog becomes less reactive (or not reactive at all) to her allergens.
Once you stop traditional allergy meds, the symptoms come right back. But immunotherapy builds tolerance over time by exposing your dog to tiny, controlled doses of the allergen.
However, allergy shots only work for environmental allergies — not flea allergies or food allergies.
To get started, your vet first identifies what your dog is allergic to through allergy testing. Then, a custom formula is created and injected on a regular schedule. At first, shots may be needed several times a week, but most dogs eventually go down to a dose every two to three weeks.
Pros and Cons of Allergy Shots for Dogs
Just like any treatment, immunotherapy has its upsides and drawbacks.
✔ Pro: They’re Effective
Allergy shots help 70–80% of dogs — though results vary:
- Some dogs improve dramatically
- Some still get mild flares, but far fewer
- Some may only stabilize rather than worsen
- A small percentage won’t improve at all
Even when symptoms don’t disappear, immunotherapy can slow or prevent long-term worsening of allergies.
✔ Pro: Very Few Side Effects
Most dogs tolerate allergy shots extremely well. The most common reaction is mild increase in itching for a day or two. Serious reactions are rare.
✘ Con: They Take Time to Work
Allergy shots are a long game. It can take 3 months to a full year before you notice improvement.
This isn’t a quick fix, so your vet may still recommend medications like Apoquel, Atopica, Cytopoint (a long-lasting anti-itch injection (given at the vet clinic) that lasts four to eight weeks) or OTC antihistamines (paired with omega-3 supplements) during the adjustment period.
Try this dog-safe antihistamine from Amazon
Try these Zesty Paws Omega Bites for dogs from Amazon
✘ Con: They Can Be Pricey Up Front
Immunotherapy isn’t cheap at the beginning — but for many pet parents, it ends up costing less than years of daily allergy medications.
Allergy Testing for Dogs
Before starting immunotherapy, your vet has to pinpoint the allergens causing trouble. They’ll first rule out other triggers like fleas, infections or food allergies.
Then your dog may receive:
- Intradermal skin testing (IDAT) — the gold standard
- Blood testing (serology) — also effective for many pets
Skin testing involves shaving a small patch and injecting tiny amounts of allergens to see what triggers a reaction. Blood tests analyze IgE levels to identify environmental triggers.
Allergy Shots vs. Cytopoint: What’s the Difference?
These two injections are not the same:
- Immunotherapy (allergy shots)
- Changes the immune response long-term
- Can reduce or eliminate allergies permanently
- Cytopoint
- Blocks the itch signal (IL-31)
- Provides relief for 4–8 weeks
- Does not treat the underlying allergy
Think of Cytopoint as short-term relief; immunotherapy as long-term correction.
Side Effects of Allergy Shots for Dogs
Side effects are usually mild:
- Temporary increase in itching
- Mild irritation at the injection site
Rare (but possible) allergic reactions can include:
- Facial swelling
- Vomiting or diarrhea
- Hives
- Lethargy
- Severe redness/swelling
Because of this risk, vets start with very small doses and gradually work up to a maintenance level.
How Much Do Allergy Shots for Dogs Cost?
Expect:
- Allergy testing: around $1,000+
- Each allergy shot: $5–$25
Once your dog is on a maintenance schedule, many pet parents spend less overall because they no longer need multiple prescription meds, shampoos and supplements.
Does Pet Insurance Cover Immunotherapy?
Yes — if you already have pet insurance and your vet recommends allergy testing and shots.
If your dog had symptoms beforehand, it counts as a pre-existing condition and won’t be covered.
Are Allergy Shots Right for Your Dog?
If your pup has chronic environmental allergies, immunotherapy can be life-changing. While it takes patience and a financial commitment, many dogs experience dramatic improvement — and some become symptom-free.
Talk to your veterinarian to find out whether allergy shots are a good fit for your dog’s needs.
We independently pick all the products we recommend because we love them and think you will too. If you buy a product from a link on our site, we may earn a commission.
