Common Food Allergies among Dogs
Food allergies can show up any time throughout your dog’s life. An allergy occurs when your pet’s immune system registers a food ingredient as harmful and creates defensive antibodies to counteract the intolerance. Allergies can cause itching and discomfort for Fido, so be sure to address any unusual behavior before it gets worse.
Symptoms
If your dog exhibits behavior that’s out of the ordinary, keep a watchful eye and consider a vet visit before things get worse. The more a dog is exposed to allergens, the more severe the reaction will become. If your pet exhibits any of the below problematic behaviors, you may want to have him or her checked by a vet:
- Skin rash
- Nausea
- Itching or hives
- Vomiting
- Diarrhea or abnormal stool
- Hair loss
- Paw biting
- Obsessive licking
Common Causes
Many common ingredients in dog food, such as beef or chicken, can cause an allergic reaction. Some dog food manufacturers also use ingredients like soy or yeast to add bulk to their products, which can also be problematic allergens. Common allergens for dogs include:
- Chicken
- Lamb
- Fish
- Beef
- Dairy
- Corn
- Wheat
- Soy
- Yeast
Treatment
If you think your dog is having an allergic reaction to a certain food, try an elimination diet to identify the culprit. Once the offending food is identified, it can be removed from your pet’s diet. In the meantime, short-term relief can be provided via antihistamines or steroids prescribed by a vet.
Like humans, pets are prone to common food allergies. Reactions to specific foods can cause symptoms ranging from scratching to vomiting. If your pet experiences an allergic reaction, ask a vet to take a look before things get worse.
For more tips on keeping your pets healthy, check the Australia Pet Doors blog each week, or get in touch by calling 0414 922 751.