Dog Food Allergies, Important Facts

Allergies in dogs are a very common ailment these days. Dog food allergies are about ten percent of all allergies that dog have. The symptoms can give an owner some warning, allowing your veterinarian and you to deal with the allergies in a proactive fashion.

Symptoms for dog food allergies can be itchy, irritated skin, with dry or hot spots and possible hair loss. Breathing may be labored with hacking or wheezing. Breathing problems may be a sign of airborne allergies present as well. Dog food allergies symptoms may include vomiting and/or diarrhea because of the association with the gastrointestinal system. Dogs may have allergies to fleas, mites, pollen, etc. just like humans. A trip to your veterinarian is the best way to find out first what is causing the allergies and second; treating the symptoms. Ingredients in dog food that can cause allergic reactions can be: Chicken, Beef, Wheat, Corn, Eggs, Soy, Yeast, preservatives.

If your veterinarian suspects a food related allergy your dog will go through a food trial. The dog is fed a strict diet of novel protein and carbohydrates which would be venison and potatoes or something the dog is not used to. This goes on for 12 weeks and symptoms are monitored. If the dog is symptom free after the trial they are reintroduced to the former food source to confirm.

Once you get a diagnosis and pinpoint that it is a food related allergy you can get your dog on a good natural dog food. Learn to read a dog food label and get informed before you make a decision on what type of food to feed your dog. Change over gradual to the new food, usually over a six to ten day period.

There are supplements that may help your dog with their symptoms. Your veterinarian will be able to let you know if something may or may not help. Be sure to stay on the diet and do not give human food. Be sure to study the ingredients list on the treats also. Wheat is a major food allergy for dog and lots of dog biscuits contain wheat and other grains.

The side effects of dog allergies can drive your poor pup and you crazy with all the licking, scratching. You best bet with any types of allergies is to get your dog checked out by your veterinarian, pinpoint the cause of the allergies and take proactive steps to eliminating the culprit from your dog’s life. If the allergy happens to be a dog food allergy there are some good foods on the market that are specially blended for allergy sufferers.