How to tell if my dog has a food allergy?
Think your dog has a food allergy? How can you be sure, and what should you do next? In this blog, we’ll explore how common food allergies are in dogs, what else could be causing your dog's symptoms, and the common signs to watch for. We’ll also dive into how to diagnose food allergies, the most common allergens, and treatment options—including why a skincare routine is key (and often overlooked). Plus, we’ll cover what to consider when choosing a diet for your dog’s allergies and how to prevent them from occurring in the future.
Food allergies cause less than 5% of skin issues in dogs
Rule out common allergies first before changing your dog’s diet. Flea allergy dermatitis and atopic dermatitis are the most common culprits. Eliminating food groups too soon can do more harm than good—some exposure may actually help build tolerance. A varied diet, like in humans, supports long-term resilience. Once other causes are ruled out, consult your vet before investigating food allergies.
Common Symptoms of Food Allergies in Dogs
Dogs with food allergies may exhibit a range of symptoms, including:
Itchy Skin:
Persistent nonseasonal itching, licking, or chewing of the body, commonly seen around the head, ears, neck area, feet, groin or anal area.
Skin Infections:
Secondary yeast or bacterial skin or ear infections from persisitent itchy, self-trauma.
Gastrointestinal Issues:
About 20% of food-allergic dogs also have GI signs such as repeated vomiting, diarrhoea, excessive gas or defecating more than 4-5 times a day.
Diagnosing Food Allergies
The best way to diagnose food allergies in dogs is through an elimination diet trial. Identify your dog’s current ingredients, then feed a diet free of known proteins for at least eight weeks under veterinary guidance. Eliminate all other treats, supplements, and edible products for accurate results.
There are two types of test diets that can be used for a food trial:
Novel Protein Diets: These consist of a protein source that your dog has not been previously exposed to, reducing the risk of an allergic reaction. Putting them on a novel protein diet usually consists of protein that is not commonly fed to them.
Hydrolyzed Protein Diets: These involve proteins that have been modified to make them less allergenic.
Most over-the-counter diets don't meet the criteria for a proper food trial, so prescription diets are often recommended. These are available in dry or canned forms and prepared in controlled settings to prevent cross-contamination. In some cases, home cooking may be required.
Dog Food Allergens Ranked:
From Most to Least Common
Treatment and Management
Once the offending food substance has been identified, the primary treatment is avoidance. This means feeding your dog a diet that does not contain the identified allergen. The good new is in general food allergic dogs usually only react to 1-3 proteins in their diet, so it can be easy to find diets that do not contain the offending ingredients these days. There are several hypoallergenic diets available from veterinarians that can be fed for the rest of your dog's life. Some of these diets include:
Veterinary Hydrolyzed Protein Diets: In these diets, the protein molecules are broken down to a size too small to be recognized by your dog’s immune system.
Veterinary Novel Protein Diets: These diets do not contain any products that were present in your dog’s previous foods.
Home-Prepared Novel Protein Diets: These diets do not contain any ingredients that were present in your dog’s previous diets and must be formulated by a veterinary nutritionist.
Supporting Your Dog’s Skin from the Outside
Managing food allergies isn’t just about diet—skin care matters too. Allergic reactions weaken the skin, making it more prone to infections. Keeping your dog’s skin clean and hydrated, especially during flare-ups, helps soothe irritation, prevent infections, and may even reduce the need for medications. A gentle, consistent routine keeps your pup comfortable and healthier in the long run.
Best Skincare Products for Dogs with Food Allergies & Sensitive Skin
Beware of 'limited-ingredient' or 'allergy' advertising!
Some dog foods available in retail stores may tout that they are "limited-ingredient" or 'allergy diet' do not contain the ingredient(s) that your dog is allergic to. However, it's important to note that, unlike veterinary diets, retail pet foods are not manufactured with the extreme health and safety protocols to prevent cross-contamination. Your veterinarian will prescribe the best option specific to your dog’s needs.
Why are prescribed diets so expensive? The high cost comes from strict quality control measures to prevent cross-contamination. Some factories shut down weekly for a full sanitization and bring in a new team just to produce allergy-friendly food. Others operate entirely separate facilities. These precautions may be costly, but they’re essential to keeping dogs safe from allergic reactions.
In addition to dietary changes, your veterinarian may prescribe medications to manage your dog’s current symptoms.
Preventing Food Allergies
Some evidence has shown that eliminating a food group completely can create more of a sensitivity. So its important to have a long term plan from a veterinarian first. While it's not always possible to prevent food allergies, introducing new foods gradually and monitoring your dog for any adverse reactions can help. If you suspect your dog has a food allergy, consult with your veterinarian. They can help your pet resume a healthier, more comfortable life.
In summary, food allergies in dogs can manifest through various symptoms, including itching, gastrointestinal issues, and skin infections. Diagnosing and managing these allergies involves a systematic approach, including an elimination diet trial under veterinary supervision. By working closely with your veterinarian, you can identify the specific allergen and develop an appropriate treatment plan to ensure your dog's well-being.
Fur Love Tips:
1. Keep food secure: Dogs are experts at sneaking snacks, so always store food out of reach to avoid accidental bites, especially during a food trial.
2. Stick to the plan: During a food trial, consistency is key. Resist the urge to give them treats or scraps, as even a small slip-up can set back the process.
3. Monitor your dog’s environment: Be cautious of any foods they may encounter outside the home, like during walks or at a friend’s house, to prevent accidental exposure.
