Dog Food Allergies: A Surefire Cure

There are many things that cause dog food allergies. Here we will take a look at the common causes, and a cure that is tailor-made for every canine -- one that works! Remember, every pooch is different. If your dog has an allergy, it’s best to consult a veterinarian to find out the exact cause so that you can get – and keep – them healthy as soon as possible.

Dog Food Allergies: Why It’s One of the Leading Causes of Canine Allergies

According to PetEducation.com, food allergies are the third leading cause of dog food allergies – after flea bites and inhalant allergies. The site goes on to say that while dog food makes up only a tenth of canine allergies, it accounts for double that amount (20%) of the itching and scratching in dogs.

So, it’s a major problem.

Sometimes, a dog food allergy can be confused with simple food intolerance. So, what’s the difference?

The Difference between a Dog Food Allergy and Dog Food Intolerance

Like humans, dog food allergies differ from food intolerance, which leads us to the question, what exactly is a dog allergy?

Dog Allergy Defined

An allergy occurs when a canine’s immune system mistakes something normal for something dangerous. When this happens, the dog’s system will have an abnormal immunological reaction. This reaction releases a host of chemicals, which leads to excessive itching and skin problems.

In contracts, dog food intolerance doesn’t involve the immunological system. Similar to humans who eat foods that don’t agree with them, your dog may have symptoms like diarrhea and vomiting.

What canine food allergies and canine food intolerance have in common though is that both can be controlled by eliminating the offending ingredients from your pooch’s diet.

Why the Most Common Ingredients In Dog Food Are Main Cause of Canine Allergies

Much like humans, one only has to look at the ingredients in dog food to find the cause of their allergies. And, just what are some of these common ingredients? Meats like chicken, beef, lamb and fish; dairy products like eggs; and also wheat, soybeans and corn.

Of course, this list could be more exhaustive. These are just some of the most common ingredients found in dog food – of which many dogs just happen to be allergic to.

Symptoms of Dog Food Allergies

Does your canine have an allergy? Following are some symptoms to look for:

Itching, scratching, gastro and/or intestinal problems are the most common symptoms to look for to see if your dog has a food allergy.

Learn more about common canine food allergies – as well as other pet allergies.

Dog Allergy Treatment: How to Cure Dog Food Allergies Once and For All

As every canine is different, the cure for your dog’s allergy may be different from what worked for your friend’s pooch, for example.

Dog Allergy Test: The Cost

One of the best ways to diagnose canine allergies is to get a dog allergy test. These can be expensive, running up to $300 or more. But, it can remove months of guesswork – and needless suffering for your pet.

One of the best things about getting your dog an allergy test is that, along with the results that tell you what your dog is allergic to, your canine’s allergy report will include a list of commercial dog foods and doggy treats that are safe for your pet. This means you'll know which dog foods and treats to buy that do not contain the things your dog is allergic to.

Learn more about dog food allergies. Also see the video below, which features a vet explaining the common causes of dog scratching and itchiness (eg, food and more).