From Dander to Dust: Understanding the Diverse World of Allergies

May 27, 2025
David Zhang

Written by: Pacagen Team
Reviewed by: David Zhang, PhD
David is an immunologist, bioengineer, and a scientific advisor at Pacagen.

Allergies are a shared burden between humans and animals. While many are familiar with the sneezing and itching that comes with seasonal allergies, the range of allergic responses tied to everyday environments is much broader. From dog epithelium allergy in people, to dogs with pollen allergies, the line between pet and human allergies is more interconnected than many realize.

In this blog, we explore five lesser-known, but still important allergy triggers. Whether it’s dog epithelium allergies or dogs reacting to pollen, hidden allergens in your home may be affecting both your health and your pet’s health more than you realize. These examples show how allergens impact both people and pets, and what you can do to manage them in your shared environment at home.

1. Dog epithelium allergy: beyond fur

The term "dog epithelium allergy" refers to an allergic reaction to proteins found in a dog’s skin cells, also called epithelial cells. These proteins are distinct from allergens found in fur or saliva, though they often travel together in pet dander. The two primary allergens in dog epithelium — Can f 1 and Can f 2 — are known to cause allergic rhinitis, asthma, and contact dermatitis in sensitive individuals.

Unlike fur, epithelial allergens are microscopic and airborne, making them particularly difficult to avoid.

Common symptoms in people include:

  • Nasal congestion and sneezing
  • Itchy, red eyes
  • Coughing or wheezing

Tips to reduce exposure:

  • Use a HEPA-filter air purifier in your home
  • Bathe your dog regularly (if tolerated)
  • Keep pets out of bedrooms
  • Talk to your allergist about immunotherapy (like allergy shots or sublingual tablets)

Learn more about pet allergy management from ACAAI.

2. Dust mite in hair: an overlooked trigger

One surprising vector for allergen exposure is dust mite in hair (both human hair and pet fur). While dust mites don’t live on your scalp, their microscopic waste can settle in your hair — especially if they are growing on your pillows, bedding, or upholstered furniture. If you’re not washing your hair regularly or sleeping on untreated bedding, you could be exposed at night.

Symptoms of dust mite exposure via hair:

  • Scalp irritation or itchiness
  • Nighttime sneezing or nasal congestion
  • Scratching-related skin irritation

What helps:

  • Wash your hair before bed
  • Wash bedding weekly in hot water (130°F or higher)
  • Use dust-mite-proof pillow and mattress covers

📌 A 2022 JACI study found households employing dust mite control measures reported a 45% reduction in allergen load within two months. Read our Allergen Cheat Sheet to get tips on what you can do today!

3. Dogs with allergies to pollen: when pets suffer too

It’s not just humans who react to springtime blooms. Dogs with allergies to pollen often show signs that mimic those of people — but their symptoms often appear on their skin rather than through sneezing. Dogs typically absorb pollen through their skin or by licking their paws after walking outdoors, leading to an allergic response.

Common symptoms include:

  • Excessive licking or chewing of paws
  • Itchy, red skin (especially on the belly or armpits)
  • Ear infections
  • Watery eyes or sneezing

Veterinary dermatologists often use intradermal skin testing or serum IgE testing to diagnose canine pollen allergies.

Treatment can involve:

  • Antihistamines
  • Prescription anti-inflammatory medications like Apoquel® or Cytopoint®
  • Immunotherapy shots customized for dogs (VetDerm, 2023)

4. Household dust allergy: A year-round challenge

A household dust allergy is one of the most common indoor allergies — and it’s not just dust. It’s a mix of dead skin cells, fabric fibers, pet dander, mold spores, and especially dust mite waste.

Unlike seasonal allergies, dust allergies persist year-round and often worsen in winter when windows are closed.

Symptoms may include:

  • Chronic stuffy nose
  • Postnasal drip
  • Itchy eyes and throat
  • Worsening asthma symptoms

In managing this allergy, dust control is central. Key steps include:

According to the American Lung Association, using a combination of environmental controls and medical management—such as intranasal corticosteroids—can lead to significant symptom improvement in most patients (ALA, 2023).

cat pollen allergy

5. Pollen: a dual challenge for cat owners

Many people don’t realize cat pollen can cause issues for both cats and their owners. First, cats themselves can be allergic to environmental pollen. Second, cats frequently act as carriers, bringing outdoor allergens like grass or tree pollen into the home on their fur and paws.

In cats, pollen allergies may appear as:

  • Excessive grooming
  • Hair loss
  • Skin rashes or hot spots

What helps:

  • Dietary changes
  • Limit your cat’s outdoor access
  • Wipe their paws and fur after outdoor activity
  • Use HEPA filters to reduce pollen and dander indoors
  • Talk to your vet about allergy testing and desensitization therapy

Conclusion

Environmental allergies don’t care what species you are. Whether it’s human sensitivities to dog epithelium, or pets reacting to pollen and dust, shared environments mean shared allergens. Even overlooked routes—like dust mite in hair or cat-borne pollen—contribute to the complex allergen landscape in your home.

Need a starting point?
✨ Take our Allergy Personality Quiz — a light, fun way to explore your allergy habits.

References:

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