A dog can develop food sensitivities over time, just like humans. People often assume that the allergy is related to something recently added to the diet. In reality, your pet may have been eating the same food for several years before an allergy develops.
The main symptom of dogs suffering from food allergies is inflamed, itchy skin. Some of the other possible symptoms include, but are not limited to: loss of appetite, persistent ear infections, hair loss, licking or chewing front paws, head shaking, and skin lesions.
The most common ingredients causing allergic reactions in pets include all types of fillers, food coloring, preservatives, beef, chicken, corn, eggs, milk, soy, wheat, pork and whey.
If you suspect your dog has food allergies, follow these steps:
- You should consult your veterinarian. Before assuming your dog has a food allergy, you will need to rule out seasonal and chemical allergies. You should also have your pet checked for pests, such as sarcoptic mange, or fleas. Your veterinarian may suggest cortisone medication to see if the dog's condition will improve. Your veterinarian can also do a skin biopsy to confirm there are food allergies.
- If you determine food is the culprit of your dog's allergic reaction, start your dog on an elimination diet. Eliminate the food your pet is currently eating and replace it with ingredients your dog has never eaten before. This may require a little extra work on your part, because the diet will not be commercial dog food. The food should contain a ratio of approximately two parts starch to one part protein.
Some protein recommendations include duck, salmon, venison, rabbit or soy (if your dog's diet did not previously contain soy).
Starch recommendations include rice, peas or potatoes.
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Author: Linette Gerlach