7 Steps To Get Your Dog Food for Allergies

People every day suffer from annoying allergies and so do dogs. In fact, about 10% of all of the dogs seen for allergies are seen because they are allergic to something in their diet. So the itching and scratching that you see them doing may not be due to fleas, but due to allergies. Changing up the dog food for allergies takes some time, but your dog will thank you for it in the long run. 

It is not fully understood how a dog becomes allergic to some ingredients in a particular food, but it is very real. Thankfully, we can recognize allergy symptoms which are similar to those found in people and that they are treatable. Both the male and female dogs can have these symptoms. Dogs between 5 months to 12 years can have allergies; although it tends to be more between the ages of 2 and 6 years old. 

So let’s run through some steps when your dog appears to show signs of an allergic reaction that you think may be caused by something he is eating.

  1. Evaluate Symptoms – Allergies are allergies so the symptoms for pollen will probably be very similar to that to food. Itchy skin that is located on the face, ears, armpits, forelegs and feet as well as the anus can be affected. Symptoms can also include hair loss, ear and/or skin infections and hot spots. Another common symptom that you may notice is an increase of bowel movements.
  2. Consult With A Veterinarian – Speak with a professional about your observations.  Verify it is allergies caused by your dog food and follow his advice.  He will more than likely have you change your dog food.
  3. Choose A New Food – Look for foods high in protein with good carbohydrates. Try to choose a food that contains rabbit and venison as these are rarely used for protein in the more “popular” foods. Potatoes are great for the carbohydrates.
  4. Food Trial – Put their current food on the back burner and provide them a completely different food for a minimum of twelve weeks. . In addition to changing the food, it is extremely important not to give any other food or treats to your dog. Bottom line, all they can have is water and the new food. I know this sounds mean, but it must be done to determine if changing dog food for allergies will work.
  5. Make The Transition Slowly – . Make sure to introduce the new food slowly each day.  All dogs are different and some can’t just make a change instantly.  You may cause more problems if you change it too quickly.
  6. Observe Closely To Changes – During the transition step, watch your furry friend closely.  Like I said before, all dogs are different and react differently to change.  Some dogs will instantly let you know that the new dog food for allergies doesn’t agree with them.  Vomiting, indigestion, and bowel movement changes can occur.   You could possibly be giving them more food that they are allergic to.  Watching for changes is a vital step!
  7. Consider Homemade Food – Is there a type of dog food for allergies available that is nutritious? There are several brands on the market for allergies but the best type of food you can provide is that which is homemade. Making homemade food not only puts you in control of what they eat, but you can control the portions of certain foods. Homemade doesn’t mean off your dinner plate, but fresh meats, poultry, fish, fruits and vegetables that you would give your own family. Homemade food is the best dog food for allergies.

Once you finally discover the right food for your dog, ensure that you give him a well balanced diet and some exercise for a happier, healthier life.  Your best friend will love you for it!