No one likes to see their dog uncomfortable with itchy skin, paws, or digestive upsets. A potential cause of these symptoms can be food allergies. This occurs when the immune system overreacts to a particular feed component and develops antibodies towards it.
The most common food components dogs can be allergic to are proteins. These include:
- Meat proteins: Most commonly beef, chicken, or lamb.
- Dairy, egg, or soy proteins.
Identifying these culprits and opting for hypoallergenic alternatives is crucial for the well-being of our canine companions.
How is a food allergy diagnosed?
We recommend you chat with your vet if your dog is displaying the above symptoms. To assess if food allergies might be the cause, your vet will likely recommend feeding a hypoallergenic diet for 8-12 weeks. This involves feeding your dog a special diet that does not contain any ingredients your dog has been exposed to before.
This is best done via feeding either:
- Veterinary hydrolysed protein diets: This is where the protein molecules have been broken down so that they are not recognised by your dog’s immune system.
- Novel protein diets: Which use proteins and ingredients your dog’s digestive system has not seen before, like duck, kangaroo, or barramundi fish.
If your dog's symptoms improve during the trial, then a food allergy is diagnosed. From here, your vet can work with you to slowly reintroduce specific foods to work out what is causing the allergies as well as work with you to develop a feeding plan that is tailored to your dog.
Understanding the common allergens in dog foods and treats empowers pet owners to make informed choices for their furry companions. By opting for hypoallergenic alternatives with none of the common key allergens, we can ensure that our dogs not only enjoy their meals but also maintain optimal health.
Hypoallergenic treats are just as important! Look for options with limited ingredients and novel proteins to avoid triggering reactions. Our Anipal range is 100% hypoallergenic so you can trust along with the right knowledge and guidance, you can turn mealtimes into moments of joy for both you and your dog. So, ditch the itch and embrace a happier, healthier future together.
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