Identifying Symptoms for Dog Food Allergies

Canines do not usually show symptoms of dog food allergies immediately after they have been fed. It will take days, weeks and even years before signs of food sensitivities start to appear. To help you identify if your dog is suffering from adverse reactions to food, here are the common symptoms of food allergies in dogs.

1. Skin Problems

Typically, skin itchiness is the first sign of dog food allergies that will manifest on your pet. You will know that something is wrong if your pooch uncontrollably licks and scratches its legs, ears, backside area, and head. Sometimes the itch can become so unbearable such that your dog will start to bite its own tail. If you see your pet rubbing its face on walls or carpets, there is a good chance that it is already suffering from adverse reaction to food allergens.

Other things to watch out for include sores, scaly patches and red spots on the skin. In extreme cases, dogs can show hair loss. There are cases where dogs develop skin infections that do not completely heal even after taking antibiotic treatments. However, it is worth noting that many dog skin problems can also be caused by flea infections.

2. Respiratory Problems

Like humans, canines can also have breathing problems if they are suffering from dog food allergies. If your pet finds it difficult to breath and it experiences excessive skin itchiness, you should immediately bring your dog to the veterinarian. Your pet may need proper medication as soon as possible to prevent the inflammation of respiratory airways. Sneezing, coughing, and wheezing can also be allergic reactions to food. Put your dog under close observation for a few days as these symptoms can be subtle and you might think that the problems are just due to seasonal changes.

3. Digestive Problems

Digestive problems in dogs do not automatically mean they suffer from food allergies. Sometimes digestive woes point to food intolerance. Both food intolerance and food allergies can cause vomiting, diarrhea, flatulence and even stomach aches. Still, the best way to prevent both these problems is to stop serving your dog with ingredients that cause the above-mentioned symptoms.

4. Other Symptoms

The symptoms of dog food allergies are different in each pooch. Some may only suffer from excessive itchiness, while others may exhibit digestive woes. Other problems that are also associated with food allergies include recurring ear infections, eye irritation or swelling, uncontrolled head shaking and seizures. If you see sudden sluggishness, grumpiness and other behavioral changes in your pet, along with other symptoms of allergies, you should take it as a sign that your dog is telling you that something is wrong.

If your dog is suffering from any of the allergy symptoms mentioned, you need to immediately bring it to a veterinarian. The vet will give your pet some antihistamine or steroid-based drugs to help ease the problems. If the symptoms recur or persist, your vet may recommend performing a dog food trial to pinpoint the exact type of food or ingredient that causes allergic reactions.