Like us, dogs can suffer from food allergies or intolerance to certain components of dog food. Food allergies in dogs can be very serious and can cause not only digestive problems such as vomiting and diarrhea but also skin problems or even behavioral problems.
Aliments allergies in dogs are those responses of the immune system to various constituents of the food they eat. This condition can be considered pathological and is caused by two categories of factors: predisposing (refers to the genetic predisposition of some dog breeds, such as:
- Bichon
- Peckinez
- Golden Retriever
- Labrador
- Bulldog
- German Shepherd
- Cocker
In the case of food allergies, the immune system misinterprets a certain protein in the food, which it perceives as an enemy, triggering an immune response that can cause discomfort and suffering to the animal in question.
It is advisable, following specialist consultation, to exclude other causes that may cause symptoms similar to aliments allergies – gastrointestinal problems, itchy skin, inflammation of the ears.
CONTENT:
- The most common allergens in food allergies
- Tests for food allergies
- Symptoms associated with food allergies
- Symptoms that are less common in food allergies
- Treatment for food allergies in dogs
The most common allergens in food allergies
Protein from chicken, beef, pork, fish, dairy products, or eggs are the best-known allergens in dog food because these products are among the most common sources of their food. Some pets may also be allergic to various vegetables in dog food, such as carrots or potatoes, but also to some cereals (gluten), although this is rare.
Other information to keep in mind about dog food allergens:
- More than a third of dogs diagnosed with a certain type of food allergy are allergic to at least one other food.
- Antibiotic treatment at an early age, when the immune system is formed, can create a predisposition to aliments allergies later. Antibiotics can destroy intestinal bacterial flora, an integral part of the immune system.
- Although some studies show a genetic predisposition to allergies, they have not been certified. However, the predisposing factor is that certain dogs are more likely to develop at least one food allergy during their lifetime.
- Pure fats, such as fish oil, do not contain protein, so they should not trigger food allergies.
- But during processing, traces of protein can seep into oils and fats, causing allergic reactions.
- Supplemental oils are administered in gelatin capsules, which can trigger food allergies in certain pets.
- Peanut butter allergies are rare in dogs and not so severe.
- Similar foods do not necessarily cause the same type of allergic reaction. A dog may be allergic to chickens, but not to turkey.
- Artificial dyes, preservatives, or flavors do not necessarily cause aliments allergies but may cause side effects or intolerances.
Tests for food allergies
- Blood tests: These do exist, but they are not very accurate, so the exclusion diet is the optimal test.
- The patch test: This involves exposing the skin to small amounts of various common allergens. Apply a patch with the allergen on the skin, and leave for two days. If skin irritation or redness occurs, then the test is positive. If not, the test is negative. These tests are more accurate than blood tests and can be done in dermatology clinics.
Symptoms associated with food allergies
The symptoms of this condition are various: skin reactions (itching and skin infections) gastrointestinal problems (vomiting, chronic diarrhea, but also chronic inflammation of the ears).
In some cases, an animal may have several of the symptoms listed above. Although these reactions may indicate the presence of a food allergy, it is recommended that you discuss with your veterinarian other more likely causes that could lead to these types of responses.
Symptoms that are less common in food allergies
- Runny nose
- Respiratory problems
- Seizures
- Urinary tract infections
- Weight loss
- Behavioral problems associated with aliments allergies:
- Usually scratched by furniture or master
- Frequent shaking of the ears or scratching of the ears
- Biting the paws, tail, or bottom
- Agitation
- Anorexia, refusal to eat, or lack of appetite
- Disinterest in playing
Treatment for food allergies in dogs
The treatment for aliments allergies in dogs has a basic principle: identifying the food to which the dog is allergic and avoiding feeding it with this food.
The exclusion diet is very important, being the way we can identify which food or, more precisely, which protein in the food causes an inadequate immune response in the case of those suffering pets.
In the case of food intolerance, a simple change of diet, with a different composition from the current one, can be very effective and can improve the symptoms.
In addition to diet, there are other tactics that can be used in case of aliments allergies or intolerances. These will be chosen carefully, only on the recommendation of the veterinarian, who will be kept informed of the animal’s progress throughout the treatment.
