How to tell if my dog has a food allergy?

Itchy Skin:

Persistent itching, licking, or chewing different areas of the body.

Skin Infections:

Secondary yeast or bacterial skin or ear infections.

Gastrointestinal Issues:

Repeated vomiting, diarrhoea, or excessive gas.

Diagnosing Food Allergies

The most reliable method for diagnosing food allergies in dogs is an elimination diet trial. This involves feeding a diet that does not contain any proteins your dog has been previously exposed to. The trial typically lasts at least eight weeks and should be supervised by a veterinarian. During this period, it's crucial to eliminate all other treats, supplements, and edible products to ensure 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.

Hydrolyzed Protein Diets: These involve proteins that have been modified to make them less allergenic.

It's important to note that not many over-the-counter diets meet the criteria for an appropriate food trial, so prescription diets are often recommended. These prescription diets are available in both dry and canned forms. In some cases, home cooking may be necessary.

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. 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.

Beware of 'limited-ingredient' advertising!

Some dog foods available in retail stores may tout that they are "limited-ingredient" or 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.

In addition to dietary changes, your veterinarian may prescribe medications to manage your dog’s symptoms.

Preventing Food Allergies

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.