Dry food for dogs with allergies. Unfortunately, dog food allergies affect not only people, but animals as well. Many dog owners have trouble determining whether their dog’s stomach or skin problems are a result food allergy.
How to distinguish an allergy from a food intolerance?
Dog food allergies and dog intolerances have different symptoms, however they treated in a similar way. In case of a dog food allergy, the dog’s immune system reacts, which is not the case with intolerances. Food intolerance occurs after the consumption of a specific ingredient.
Often it is enough to change the food, by eliminating one ingredient. Dogs with intolerances have a sensitive digestive system it is best to offer them food with prebiotics. This food has a positive effect on the balance of intestinal bacterial flora and supports digestibility.
How to recognize an allergy?
Our dogs can have three types of allergies: food, inhalation and contact. Recognizing the one you are dealing with is relatively difficult. This is due to the fact that an allergic reaction does not occur immediately after contact with the allergen and usually lasts for a long time.
The most common signs of allergies are:
- dog itching (scratches, licks paws, rubs against furniture),
- smell from ears and mouth
- dog diarrhea
- vomiting
- feces with an unpleasant odor
- passing gas
Unfortunately, diagnosing a dog food allergy is very difficult and is usually based primarily on an elimination diet. This way, you can see which ingredients cause an allergic reaction and which ones are safe. The vet may recommend special tests, the most common being for the presence of antibodies.
How to treat a dog allergy?
In the case of dog allergies, it is necessary to avoid allergens! It is important to find food ingredients that are safe for your dog. This includes food with hydrolyzed meat i.e. mono-protein foods that contain only one source of animal protein, insect-based products or foods for animals with a sensitive digestive tract.
If symptoms get worse, your vet may recommend antihistamines, anti-inflammatory and antipruritic drugs.
In some cases it is enough to modify the dog’s diet accordingly, so it does not come into contact allergens.
What are dogs most allergic to?
Unfortunately, your dog can react to any ingredient in their food! The list of the most common allergens includes:
- beef
- chicken
- wheat
- soybeans
- dairy
- preservatives and dyes
Remember diagnosing and treating allergies can be difficult and time-consuming. Always talk to your vet and discuss your concerns.
TropiDog’s Probiotic Line can provide the correct nutrition for your dog with allergies.
