The Truth About Dog Food Allergies
Are you concerned that your dog may have food allergies? Dog food allergies can be a serious problem and a source of great stress to dog and owner. In this article we’ll discuss the symptoms of dog food allergies and some of the dog food for dogs with allergies available on the market. After reading this article you will be better informed about dog food for allergies and the best foods to buy in the event that your dog has allergies.
Symptoms of Dog Food Allergies
Food allergies are somewhat common, representing about 10% of all allergies found in dogs. Most dogs with allergies begin to develop symptoms between two and six years of age, but may begin as early as 5 months or as late as 12 years.
Symptoms of a dogs food allergies include itchy skin around the face, ears, feet, legs and groin. Constant ear infections, scratching and a loss of hair can also be a symptom of food allergies. Chronic yeast infections are also another sign that your dog may be suffering from food allergies.
Unfortunately, there are several other kinds of illnesses and problems that can result in the same symptoms, so to get an accurate diagnosis, make sure you visit the vet. Once your vet has ruled out all the other possible problems, you can move on to doing food trials.
Dog Food for Dogs with Allergies
There are several dog food brands on the market that are formulated specifically to reduce or eliminate allergies or the symptoms associated with them. Science Diet, Nature’s Recipe, ProPlan and Natural Balance are just a few examples. Many owners also report good success with homemade dog foods and there are a wide variety of dog food recipes available online.
Ask your vet for their recommendation for a food that they think will help your dog the most. Your vet may also have some suggestions about the best way to transition to the new food and whether or not any dog treats or table scraps should be allowed in the first 12 weeks to ensure that the old food was indeed the cause of the allergies.
Conclusion
If you think your dog may have food allergies, make sure to have him examined by your vet as soon as possible. Allergies can cause a host of uncomfortable symptoms and can negatively impact your dog’s quality of life. Many types of food are available to assist dogs with allergies – hopefully this article has provided you with enough information to get started on the road to finding the right one for your pet.
I am so glad to find this website – I have 2 cocker spaniels with allergies. I have switched them yet again – dog food – from Wellness SFS to Natural Balance LID and hopefully that will help. But finding a treat recipe that is wheat free – THANKS !!! I don’t buy commercial treats either.