Food allergies in dogs can be tricky to identify, but catching the early warning signs is crucial to helping your dog feel better and stay healthy. If your dog regularly suffers from tummy upsets, itchy skin, or ear infections, it could be a sign of a food-related issue. In this blog, we’ll explore common signs of dog food allergies, how to tell if your dog has a food allergy, and what you can do to manage and treat the condition.
What causes food allergies in dogs?
Canine food allergies occur when a dog’s immune system mistakenly identifies a food ingredient as harmful, triggering an allergic reaction in dogs. Over time, repeated exposure to the allergen can cause chronic symptoms. The most common dog food allergens include proteins like beef, dairy, chicken, wheat, and soy.
It’s also important to distinguish between a food allergy vs food intolerance in dogs. A food allergy involves the immune system, whereas a dog food intolerance usually relates to digestion issues without an immune response.
Signs of food allergies in dogs
Knowing the signs of food allergies in dogs can make a big difference. Here are some key symptoms to watch out for:
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Dog itchy skin caused by food: Persistent scratching, licking, or biting at the skin
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Dog skin allergies from food: Redness, inflammation, or rashes
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Dog digestive problems from food: Chronic diarrhoea, vomiting, or flatulence
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Dog ear infections caused by food allergies: Recurring ear infections or yeast overgrowth
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Chronic paw chewing or face rubbing
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Weight loss or poor coat condition
If you notice any of these dog food allergy symptoms, it’s time to take action.
How to tell if your dog has a food allergy
Wondering how to tell if your dog has a food allergy? The best way is through careful observation and veterinary support. If your dog’s symptoms persist regardless of changes to their environment or routine, it’s likely the issue stems from their diet.
Your vet may recommend an elimination diet for dogs with allergies, where you feed a novel protein and carbohydrate for several weeks, then slowly reintroduce ingredients to identify allergens in your dog’s diet.
Diagnosing food allergies in dogs
Diagnosing food allergies in dogs can be a slow process, but it’s vital to pinpoint the problem. Tests like blood or saliva allergy tests can sometimes help, but elimination diets are considered the gold standard. Always work with your vet to ensure an accurate diagnosis.
How to manage food allergies in dogs
Managing your dog’s food allergy means removing the offending ingredient permanently. Here’s how to support your dog:
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Choose the best food for dogs with allergies – look for limited-ingredient diets with novel proteins or hydrolysed proteins.
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Support gut health with targeted supplements.
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Monitor for secondary infections like ear or skin issues and treat promptly.
Our Advanced Support for Digestion supplement has been specially designed to help dogs with sensitive tummies and food allergies. It contains Calsporin® Bacillus Velezensis (a highly effective probiotic), Prebiotics and Postbiotics, Soluble and Insoluble Fibre, and Vitamin B12 to help promote a healthy gut microbiome, strengthen digestion, and boost natural defences.
This blend can be especially useful in dogs recovering from allergic reactions, providing extra support for optimal digestion and immune health.
How to treat food allergies in dogs
Once you have identified your dog’s allergens, how to treat food allergies in dogs becomes a matter of careful diet management. Steps include:
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Permanent removal of allergenic foods
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Using hypoallergenic or vet-recommended diets
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Regular supplementation to enhance gut and skin health
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Close monitoring of your dog’s symptoms
In some cases, your vet may also prescribe medication to control inflammation or secondary infections.
Final thoughts
Symptoms of dog food allergies can be uncomfortable and distressing for your pet, but with the right approach, they can live a happy, healthy life.
If you suspect a dog food allergy, take the signs seriously. Early identification, a strategic diet plan, and supportive supplements like our Advanced Support for Digestion can make a world of difference.
Remember: the sooner you act, the sooner your dog will feel better.
