Dogs can’t tell you when they aren’t feeling their best. It’s up to you to see the signs that something isn’t right. One problem with recognising food allergies in dogs is that they share the same symptoms with several other conditions, including other types of dog allergies.
Three Main Types of Dog Allergies
There are three basic types of allergies in dogs:
1. Flea allergy dermatitis
2. Environmental allergy
3. Food allergy
To make pinpointing the source of your dog’s discomfort even more challenging, your pet might be affected by more than one type of allergy at the same time. While all three types of allergies cause itching, there are some differences that set them apart.
In flea allergy dermatitis, dogs experience intense itching along with painful skin wounds. Without treatment, they develop secondary skin infections. Treatment requires removing all of the fleas from the pet and its environment.
An environmental allergy causes itching in response to exposure to seasonal allergens such as pollen or mould. They, too, cause itching, but only during certain times of the year.
Food allergies in dogs also cause itching of the skin, paws, and/or ears. Some dogs experience digestive disturbances such as diarrhea or vomiting. Your dog might begin to lose weight, slow down, or even become aggressive.
Regardless of your dog’s symptoms, you should take them to the vet for an evaluation. If your vet suspects that your dog has a food allergy, they can do blood work to test for antibodies. They might also recommend doing an elimination diet to determine which food/ingredient is causing your dog’s symptoms.
Causes of Food Allergies in Dogs
Food allergies occur in all breeds of dogs, and they are growing increasingly common. Most appear after the age of six months, and some over the age of one or two.
Food allergies can occur even after eating the same food for years without trouble. Changing food can also cause new allergies to emerge or reveal allergies your dog already had.
The ingredients in commercial dog treats can also cause allergies. Even leading brands may contain some of the most common dog allergens.
Most of the allergens are proteins. Many dog owners know how important it is to feed their dog adequate amounts of high-quality protein, but allergies commonly involve dairy ingredients, beef, chicken, eggs, soy, and wheat gluten.
Sometimes, the preservatives, dyes, or other additives are to blame. An elimination diet will help pinpoint exactly what is causing your dog’s symptoms.
How an Elimination Diet Works
You should have your vet oversee the elimination diet to ensure your dog’s safety. Begin by purchasing a hypoallergenic dog food or one with limited ingredients. If you have the time, you might prefer to give your dog a home-cooked diet. In either case, your dog will consume a unique protein and carbohydrate source to which it hasn’t been exposed.
You shouldn’t feed your dog any other foods while on the elimination diet. That’s where fish dog treats come in. Our fish treats for dogs are all-natural and don’t contain any additives or preservatives. They also contain nutrients that help support healthy skin and coat and boost the immune system.
Fish as a Unique Protein
Fish is especially good as a unique protein source for dogs. It is the protein source used in some special diets. Fish dog treats are also ideal for dogs with food allergies, skin allergies, and inflamed joints. Dogs on a special diet for allergies can eat natural fish treats without it interfering with their special dietary needs. They get the tasty treats they love without causing itching, respiratory, or digestive distress.
Sticking With the Elimination Diet
Most vets recommend keeping your dog on an elimination diet for at least 8 to 12 weeks. During the diet, you will introduce foods one at a time until you identify the culprit. When the dog begins itching again, you know that the food you re-introduced probably caused it.
Even after your dog returns to a regular diet (minus the allergic ingredient), you should consider using the natural dog treats from Gully Road. They provide many benefits to your dog without putting its health at risk.
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