Food allergies are uncommon in dogs. However, the symptoms can concern us and our canine companions when they strike. In this blog post, our Ankeny veterinarians list the best types of foods to help alleviate your dog's food allergy symptoms.
Food Allergies in Dogs
Since dogs can't tell us whether they are suffering from a sensitivity to an ingredient in their food or a food allergy, it's important to be aware of the most common symptoms of food allergies and what to do if your dog is diagnosed with one.
Signs & Symptoms of Food Allergies in Dogs
Food allergies in dogs often become an issue after the dog reaches its first birthday. That said, dogs of any age can develop sensitivities and allergies.
The most common signs and symptoms of food allergies in dogs include:
- Vomiting
- Diarrhea
- Gassiness
- Red, irritated skin
- Rashes on ears and feet
- Itching
Owners may notice their dog has developed these symptoms, or a veterinarian may detect signs during a routine exam. If you're worried that your dog may have an allergy, we recommend scheduling a preliminary examination with Creature Comforts Veterinary Hospital.
Common Causes of Food Allergies in Dogs
Plant-based or animal ingredients in food contain proteins that can cause food allergies. Common culprits include wheat, dairy, beef, and corn. Although it may seem counterintuitive, it can take a fairly long time for symptoms of food allergies to become apparent. It's not unusual for dogs to develop an allergy to food they have been eating for many months.
How Dogs Are Diagnosed with Food Allergies
An elimination diet is the only reliable method of diagnosing dog food allergies.
If your vet thinks your dog may be suffering from a food allergy, they will prescribe a specially formulated hypoallergenic dog food for your canine friend. For a minimum of 8 to 10 weeks, you'll only feed your dog the prescribed food to discern whether the diet change helps alleviate your dog's symptoms.
Your dog must eat only hypoallergenic food while on this elimination diet. (Unfortunately, this means no sneaking them the odd treat.) This special 10-week diet will help your dog's body adapt to the food and allow your vet to assess your dog's overall health.
If your dog's symptoms are alleviated or disappear while on the elimination diet, your vet may ask you to return to feeding your dog their original diet. If original symptoms return, your vet can confidently diagnose your dog with a food allergy.
The Best Foods for Dogs with Allergies
Prescription Dog Food
If your dog is suffering from severe symptoms of a food allergy, your vet may recommend that you feed your pup prescription dog food. While this option can be pricey, novel protein and hydrolyzed diets available by prescription only are typically superior to those that can be purchased over the counter.
Grain-Free Dog Food
Grain-free dog food may be ideal if your pet is sensitive to corn, wheat, or other grains. These foods are also gluten-free.
Limited Ingredient Dog Foods
Limited-ingredient dog foods address the presence of allergens by including just one protein source (such as beef, lamb, or chicken), often combined with just a single carbohydrate source. When shopping for limited-ingredient dog foods, it's important to check for a seal of approval from the Association of American Feed Control (AAFCO) and a "complete and balanced" claim from the manufacturer.
Novel Ingredient Dog Food
Novel ingredient dog foods replace traditional dog food proteins such as beef and chicken with more unusual proteins such as salmon, duck, or venison. Many novel ingredient dog foods also use unusual carbohydrates such as sweet potatoes to help balance the diet.
After your dog is diagnosed, your vet will work with you to find the best diet. Many food options are available to help alleviate your dog's food allergy symptoms.
The Importance of Veterinary Consultation
Before making any changes to your dog's diet, it is essential to consult your vet. Testing for food allergy symptoms and ongoing nutritional counseling work hand-in-hand to help keep your dog healthy and comfortable.
We can provide veterinary nutritional counseling and provide you with a specially formulated hypoallergenic prescription diet designed to help alleviate your dog's food allergy symptoms. As part of this service, we can also provide advice targeted specifically to your dog's nutritional needs.
Note: The advice provided in this post is intended for informational purposes and does not constitute medical advice regarding pets. For an accurate diagnosis of your pet's condition, please make an appointment with your vet.