Dog Food Intolerance & Food Allergy
In the same way that humans can have a food intolerance or allergy, so too can dogs. However, while we can communicate when we feel unpleasant or uncomfortable symptoms after eating something, dogs can’t. This is why it’s important to look out for any signs that your dog may have an allergy or intolerance.
Here, we’ll explain what food intolerances and allergies in dogs are, how you can tell whether your dog might have one and how you can find out for sure with a dog allergy test.
Can dogs have a food intolerance?
Yes, dogs can develop a food intolerance in the same way that humans can. They may lead to symptoms around the digestive system and skin, and cause them to over-groom.
Understanding dog food Intolerances and allergies
An intolerance usually develops before your dog reaches three years of age, but in some cases, it could be at any stage throughout your dog’s life. They can be difficult to pinpoint because many of the symptoms are similar to those of other conditions, so if you suspect your dog may have an allergy or intolerance, it’s always recommended that you find out for sure, such as with a dog allergy test.
The difference between intolerance and allergy in dogs
An intolerance occurs when your dog struggles to digest or metabolise a certain type of food, while an allergy is caused by your dog’s immune system incorrectly identifying specific food as a threat.
Symptoms of allergies and intolerances in dogs have many crossovers, which can make them tough to tell apart. Dog food intolerance symptoms include:
- Diarrhoea
- Vomiting
- Sneezing
- Itchiness
- Swelling around the face and ears
- Recurring ear infections
- Red skin or hives
- Over-grooming
If you think your dog may have an allergy or intolerance, check their poop, skin, ears and eyes after they eat potential triggers to see if it’s a recurring problem.
Common dog food intolerances
Dogs are omnivores, so they can develop intolerances to a range of food, including meat, plants, grains and dairy, but many of the most common intolerances in dogs are proteins.
Any breed of dog can develop a food intolerance, but some are more susceptible than others, such as German Shepherds, Westies and Cocker Spaniels.
Other types of dog allergy
Food allergies aren’t the only type dogs can suffer from; they may also develop environmental or contact allergies. Many of the symptoms are similar to those of a food allergy, and if you’re not sure of the cause of your dog’s symptoms, a dog allergy test can tell you for sure.
Environmental dog allergies
Dogs often spend a lot of time outside, which exposes them to grass, trees, moulds, dust, pollen and more. This can make environmental allergies a challenge to identify.
Dog contact allergies
Contact allergies in dogs are relatively uncommon, but there’s a small chance a dog can have an allergy to something they come into contact with. This could be carpets, bedding, pyrethrins, pesticides and more. It’s also incredibly hard to specify without testing a wide range of potential allergens.
Dog food intolerance tests
A dog food intolerance test is the fastest and most accurate way to establish exactly what your dog has an allergy or intolerance to.
Your vet can arrange this for you, however, this can potentially be time-consuming and expensive.
Another more affordable option is an at home dog allergy test. An advanced test analyses a sample of your dog’s fur against 460 common allergens and provides you with a comprehensive report that tells you what causes your dog to experience symptoms. This helps you take steps toward preventing your dogs from eating or being exposed to allergens.
How to treat a dog food intolerance
Food intolerances in dogs can’t be cured, but you can prevent them from experiencing symptoms by managing their diet. Once you know what your dog has an intolerance to, you can remove triggers from their diet.
Test to see if your dog has an allergy or intolerance
If your dog regularly experiences symptoms and you suspect it has an allergy or intolerance, don’t let them suffer in silence.
If you think your cat might have an allergy or intolerance, you can find out for sure in less than a week so you can prevent them from experiencing unpleasant and painful symptoms.
Buy a dog allergy test to find out exactly what your dog has an allergy or intolerance to so they can be healthier and happier.