Dogs, too, can have food allergies just as human beings. Such allergies may lead to discomfort, itching, digestive problems, and even behavioral shifts. The pet owners tend to misjudge food allergies as other complications. This is why it is relevant to know the food allergy symptoms of the dog to provide them with adequate care and relief. We will also describe the food-allergy symptoms in dogs, most frequent allergens, and what to do with a food-allergy-affected dog below.
Dog food allergies develop due to an inaccurate reaction to some food components by the immune system of the dog. This can irritate the skin, cause nausea, and stomach ache, among others.
In case a dog consumes something that it is allergic to, its immune system reacts to the constituent as an adversary. This causes a response that may not be evident at once. Signs and symptoms of food allergies in dogs can, in certain situations, be delayed.
It is necessary to mention that food intolerance is distinguished from food allergy in dogs by symptoms. Allergies are related to the immune system, and intolerance is typically concerned with digestion. i.e., a dog might be lactose intolerant without being allergic to milk.
Suggested reading: Nutritional Needs by Dog Life Stage and Breed Size Explained
Before identifying the symptoms, it's good to know which foods commonly cause allergies in dogs.
Dogs may be allergic to one or more of these ingredients. The allergy develops over time, usually after repeated exposure to the allergen.
Such ingredients are found in commercial dog food. Being overexposed to them may render dogs allergic to food, resulting in itching or gastrointestinal disorders in dogs.
At this point, it is time to see what real symptoms you could observe in case your dog has a food allergy.
Dogs normally display the most apparent symptoms of food allergies on the skin. These include:
Dogs will frequently scratch/nibble their ears and belly, as well as their paws. You will also see marks on their skin in the form of darkly coloured marks due to incessant irritation.
Repeat ear infection is another symptom. People tend to confuse these with more general issues of health, but they are one indicator of food allergies.
Symptoms include:
In case your dog develops constant ear infections, food could be one of the options suggested.
There are food allergy symptoms in dogs that are related to the stomach and digestive system. These could be:
Sudden constipation or diarrhea, or a high frequency of accidents at home, can be attributed to food allergies.
Though not often, a few dogs will experience allergy symptoms in the eyes or breathing:
These are normal happenings, but this is something that we should observe.
Dogs are unable to inform us that they are not comfortable, so they may alter their behavior. Watch for:
When accompanied by physical symptoms, behavioral changes can indicate symptoms of food allergy in dogs.
Also read: Common Illnesses in Cats: Symptoms and When to Visit the Vet
Once you’ve noticed possible signs, the next step is to confirm the allergy.
The first thing to do is visit your vet. They will ask about symptoms, check the dog’s skin and ears, and possibly run tests to rule out infections or parasites.
This is the most accurate method to identify a food allergy in dogs. Here’s how it works:
This test takes time, but it’s the best way to pinpoint which ingredient is causing the issue.
Once the allergen is identified, treatment becomes easier.
The most effective way to treat food allergies in dogs is to completely avoid the food causing the reaction. This means:
Although it is impossible to avoid allergies completely, it is possible to reduce the risks and detect them at an early stage.
Repeating the same protein again and again in feeding your dog may put you at a higher risk of sensitivity. Grab some proteins (turkey, fish, and duck) that you can alternate between so you do not overexpose yourself.
Note whether your dog develops new signs and symptoms of food allergies, since some food-allergic dogs can develop these signs and symptoms with a change in diet. With detection, it will be easier to treat without the occurrence of greater problems in the future.
Choose low-fill, balanced, and non-artificial dog food. They are usually less allergic and digestive systems.
Most of the human foods and treats harbor allergens such as wheat, soy, or dairy products. Keep to the treats that have fewer ingredients, and do not feed your dog what is on your plate.
Not all cases of itching and stomach aches are due to allergies in food allergies. Unless you can see, however, you should call your vet in case you notice:
A vet can assist in deciding whether it is a food allergy or something else and get you going in the correct path.
Symptoms of dog food allergy could be varied, such as itchiness of body skin and digestive discomfort, agitation, etc. This is why it is quite significant to know the symptoms of food allergy in dogs, and the owners simply must act quickly. When your dog is battling food allergies in dogs, talk to your vet, and an elimination diet can help. Proper care and care of your dog will ensure that he has a healthy life without increased pain from allergies. Being familiar with food allergy symptoms in dogs will keep you ahead of the health of your furry friend.
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