The food allergies in dogs, which we must differentiate from intolerances, are disorders that we can come across relatively frequently. In this article on our site we will see what are the keys to recognizing a food allergy in our dog. In addition, we will explain what treatment is the most appropriate to solve them or, at least control them. If we suspect that our dog suffers from an allergy, we should consult the veterinarian to prevent the condition from worsening.
How to detect food allergies in dogs?
Although a priori it may seem that the symptoms of food allergy in dogs are going to be fundamentally digestive, the truth is that the most characteristic sign is itching and the consequent scratching to relieve it. Food allergy can appear in dogs of all ages and without the seasonal pattern that does appear in allergies triggered, for example, by pollen.
The foods most associated with allergic reactions are meat, milk, eggs, fish, cereals or soy. An allergy is a hypersensitivity reaction to a substance, in this case proteins, which, in principle, should not be dangerous to the body. If the immune system considers it so, that is when the allergy occurs. The dog must be exposed to the allergen one or more times for the reaction to be triggered. Therefore, it is more common in dogs that have been on the same diet for a long time.
Dog Food Allergy Symptoms
How does food allergy manifest in dogs? As we have said, food allergy dermatitis in dogs is going to be the main symptom. This disorder causes redness and intense itching We can also see small red bumps and woundsdue to scratching. It is very normal for this skin disorder to affect the lower part of the body and the ears, causing otitis due to food allergy in dogs. The feet and backs of the legs are commonly affected.
Finally, food allergy diarrhea in dogs is rare. A rapid digestive transit can appear in food intolerances Therefore, if we suspect that our dog suffers from an allergic disorder, it is important that the veterinarian confirm the diagnosis, since that, in addition to being confused with intolerance, dermatological problems could also be due to other types of allergies or diseases.
Symptoms of feed intolerance in dogs
As we have just seen, intolerance and allergy are two totally different conditions, so they also develop different symptoms. Thus, a dog with feed intolerance will develop diarrhea and/or vomiting, accompanied by abdominal pain. In contrast, a dog with a food allergy will show the aforementioned signs of dermatitis. Of course, in both cases the dog is not intolerant or allergic to the entire feed, but to one or more of its components.
Dog Food Allergy Testing
To confirm a diagnosis of food allergy, the veterinarian will use a hypoallergenic diet testThis consists of offering the animal what is known as an elimination diet, that is, with food that it has never eaten before, disregarding the rest, which are eliminated. For sale we will find different feed or wet food made with few ingredients that are less commonly consumed. They do not contain artificial colors, preservatives or flavors. There are also products formulated with hydrolyzed proteins This means that the proteins have been broken into smaller fragments to which the body does not react. In this way the allergy cannot be triggered. If the dog's symptoms improve with this change in diet, the diagnosis of food allergy will be confirmed.
Of course, we can also carry out this elimination diet with natural foods. In fact, this way it is easier to find the exact food or foods that trigger the allergic reaction. Of course, we recommend following this diet under the advice of the veterinarian.
Finally, we can also request a allergy skin test to major food allergens.
How to cure food allergies in dogs?
The first thing we must be clear about is that the food allergy is not going to be cured, but if we prevent the dog from eating the food to which he is allergic, he will lead a normal life. In this way, if what you want to know is how to get rid of your dog's allergy, you already have the answer. Therefore, the treatment involves finding that food to which the dog does not react. For this, it is essential that we prepare a detailed list with all the foods that you have consumed throughout your life, since the objective is to provide you with a completely new menu.
The new dietselected should be given for about 8-10 weeks. If we see improvement, and always following the instructions of the veterinarian, we can add food one by one with the aim of locating the one that has triggered the reaction. We will identify it because the dog will show the symptoms again. If a diet works, it will be maintained indefinitely.
Therefore, let's not expect pills for food allergy in dogs, since the treatment exclusively includes the intervention in the diet. On the other hand, drugs could be prescribed if the scratching has caused serious dermatological lesions. The objective would be to control itching, reduce inflammation or treat infections, if applicable. In the next section we will focus on antihistamines.
Antihistamine for dogs
Allergic reactions are caused by the release of histamine, so antihistamine drugs can be included in their treatment, which are prescribed when there is itching or dermatitis, in this case because of our dog's food allergy.
There are several types of antihistamines for dogs on the market that can be administered and that act differently in the body. It is the job of the veterinarian to choose the most appropriate and to prescribe the dose. In no case should we medicate the dog with drugs for human use. Antihistamines are used only when symptoms are present. Corticosteroids can also be used but, again, it will be the specialist who determines their use.
Homemade diet for dogs with food allergies
In food allergies it is possible to resort to home remedies, since the diet that we can prepare at home, with fresh foods chosen and controlled by ourselves and without any type of additive, it is an excellent option for these animals. Of course, for the menu to be balanced, it is essential that we prepare it with the help of a veterinarian with good knowledge of nutrition, since, otherwise, we could solve the allergy but cause deficiencies. As we have said, it must be made up of ingredients that the dog has not previously consumed or that we have verified that they do not produce any allergic reaction in him.
To learn how to start a homemade diet for dogs, don't miss this article: "BARF diet for dogs". This type of diet usually works very well in dogs with food allergies, so it is an excellent option when it comes to home remedies for food allergies in dogs.
Foods for dogs with food allergies
Now, if, for whatever reason, the dog does not follow a homemade diet, we have already mentioned that there is a whole variety of food for dogs on the market with food allergy, as well as other more natural foods prepared, also, to treat this type of conditions. In general, these products are made with foods that produce a lower percentage of allergies in dogs, found thanks to the studies carried out. Likewise, let us remember that they do not usually include artificial colors or flavorings. For all these reasons, we always recommend looking for those feeds or foods that are as natural as possible and that are made with natural ingredients and suitable for human consumption.
And if the veterinarian has finally diagnosed your dog with an intolerance, and not an allergy, don't miss this other article: "Food for dogs with food intolerance".
