It’s not just fussy eating…
If your dog turns their nose up at the sight of their carefully crafted dinner, it may appear they have impossibly high culinary standards. However, there’s also the chance they are allergic to their food. We’ve seen how awareness around human food allergies and intolerances have gathered momentum, and now dog food allergies are firmly on the radar for owners. This article explores common dog food allergies, and we’ll also take a whistlestop tour of the foods that are best for your dog and their allergies.
My dog could be allergic to any of the ingredients in their food – help!
Common dog food allergies to narrow down the search
You may be aware that there is a difference between a food intolerance and an outright allergic reaction. Still, both scenarios can be stressful and tricky to navigate for the concerned owner. To keep it simple, an allergy triggers a dog’s immune system to launch an attack on a particular food type or ingredient, viewing it as a “traitor in the camp” that needs to be removed. Slightly more complicated is the fact that an allergy involving the immune system usually only becomes noticeable over a period of time, compared to a food intolerance, which can trigger a reaction the first time a dog eats a particular food. Allergy symptoms can rear their head even when a dog has eaten the same food until that point, and at any age. A bolt out of the blue? Yep.
So, what are the most reported allergens in food?
- Beef
- Dairy
- Chicken
- Lamb
- Wheat
What do you need to look out for if you suspect an allergic reaction?
Signs that your dog has a food allergy
You may first suspect an allergic reaction to a food if your dog is itching and scratching more than usual, and maybe getting a bit “weird” with it, like using your garden fence as a scratching post for its bum. They may be fixating on certain areas such as their paws, ears, belly area, and under their tail. Itchy ears are a common allergic symptom, but watch out for ear infections, another frequent symptom (and we all know how miserable an ear infection can be).
“Usually the first indication that a dog is allergic to their food is excessive itching and skin sensitivity, especially on their paws”, explains Animed vet, Jess Simmonds. “One or two bowel movements a day is normal, but if your dog is going more than this or has diarrhoea, this is a sign of gastrointestinal discomfort. As in humans, sneezing, conjunctivitis, or hives can also signal an allergy to a food. Do not hesitate to talk to your vet if you suspect an allergic reaction, as there is so much help to tap into to provide relief.”
Where do I start uncovering my dog’s allergy?
How to test for dog food allergies
Although some of those online food allergy tests may look the business, currently there are no reliable blood, fur or saliva tests to diagnose a food allergy in dogs, so the only way to know for sure is to commit to an elimination diet routine. This usually lasts for 6 to 12 weeks. To ensure the diet trial is as accurate as possible, follow a vet-prescribed diet rather than over-the-counter diets that may contain sneaky hidden ingredients. Labelling of dog food is not as strict as it is for people. Our regulations state that food processed in an environment that may potentially bring the food into contact with an allergen must be clearly labelled. Pet food manufacturers are not under the same obligation, so collaborating with your vet is always your best bet.
Your vet may prescribe a hydrolysed protein diet, which is a fancy way of describing protein that has been chemically broken down by water to the point that the immune system no longer registers it and, therefore, doesn't attack. Following a hydrolysed protein diet for 6 to 12 weeks allows your dog’s digestive system to “reset” itself, essentially providing a blank canvas to reintroduce certain foods to find the offending culprit.
Another approach your vet may employ is a novel protein diet. As the name suggests, the proteins contained in these dog foods are less common in supermarket dog foods, and your dog is unlikely to have been exposed to them. These include protein sources such as salmon, haddock, rabbit, and even some plant-based proteins like peas. Your dog’s immune system is less likely to sound the alarm when encountering these lesser-known proteins.
Best dog foods for your sensitive pooch to tuck into
Protein Allergies
As previously mentioned, the two best options for dogs allergic to certain proteins are to switch to a hydrolysed protein diet or novel protein diet.
Protein forms as long amino acid chains. Breaking these chains down to smaller ones allows the protein to move through your dog’s digestive system undetected by the immune system. This way, your dog is getting their necessary protein intake but without their immune system having a meltdown. After approximately 2 months, different proteins can be tested individually to pinpoint the one your dog is allergic to.
Only feed your dog hydrolysed food under the supervision of your vet. The heavy processing required to produce this specialised food means it’s not nutritionally intended for long-term use.
Feeding your dog food made from rarer proteins is a good option for dogs with protein allergies. We know the most common protein allergies involve beef, chicken and lamb, but there is a whole array of animal and plant protein sources, from fish and rabbit to venison and duck.
“Novel or more unusual protein sources are less likely to trigger an allergic reaction in dogs because the immune system is unlikely to class them as an invading allergen,” says Jess. “Even though these foods do not contain the go-to beef or chicken, they still provide the right nutrients and amino acids essential to your dog’s health”.
Skin Allergies
For dogs suffering with skin allergies, look for foods high in omega-3s and omega-6s as well as antioxidants, including vitamins C and E. Salmon is an ideal protein source for sensitive skin as it’s high in essential oils known for supporting healthy skin. Omega-3s and -6s and antioxidants reduce inflammation, alleviating itchy skin. The skin’s natural protective barrier is also strengthened, creating a guard against further irritants. Omega-3s specifically are great for hydrating dry skin.
Grain Allergies
The most common grain allergy in dogs is wheat, but some are also allergic to corn or soy. Rice -based foods can be a good alternative if your dog has been given the all-clear for a rice allergy. Sweet potatoes, peas and lentils are also excellent grain-free carbohydrate sources. Have you ever seen a dog go nuts for peas?! It’s a joyful sight to behold! Grain-free dog food often combines a quality protein source with vegetables to provide necessary carbohydrate without exposing your dog to a grain allergen.
Final thoughts on managing food allergies in dogs
To wrap up, managing food allergies in dogs calls for patience, attentiveness and a methodical approach. But let’s face it, they’re our furry family members and worth every effort! The most effective strategy is to work closely with your vet. That way, you will feel supported and have access to reliable advice when navigating an elimination diet and transitioning your dog to a diet tailored to their sensitivities. Whether your dog is allergic to proteins or grains or has skin complaints, there are high-quality dog food diets out there to help your dog thrive. Remember, like people, every dog is unique, and what works for one may not work for another. Ongoing observation and adjustment are key to finding the best food to manage your dog’s allergies. Still, with love and patience combined with your vet’s expertise, it’s worth seeing them tail-wagging happily.
