Growing up, we always had a dog around. Now that I have a family of my own, I knew my household wouldn’t be complete without a furry family friend. Last July, we adopted a small, nine-pound chihuahua mix named Rosie. Soon after bringing her home, we found out that she had a pretty significant gluten allergy that was wreaking havoc on her skin and stomach. The answer lay in feeding her the correct diet: Together with her vet, we found the right dog food, and she’s improved significantly. If you have a pet suffering from allergies, you know how much special diets will help.
In this article, we’ll cover the 10 best dog foods for allergies, covering a variety of types to help with every kind of need. Common food allergies in dogs
According to Andrea Johnston, a board-certified small animal veterinary internist and medical board member at The Vets , the most common types of food allergies in dogs include wheat (gluten) and protein (dairy, beef, chicken, eggs and soy). Additives can also cause allergic reactions and sensitivities. Symptoms of food allergies in dogs
Dr. Nell Ostermeier, a licensed veterinarian and advisor for Figo Pet Insurance , says there are several telltale signs. “Signs of a sensitive stomach can vary among individual dogs and may include hypersalivation, nausea, vomiting, soft stools, flatulence and diarrhea. If your dog typically exhibits any of these signs when you try to offer a new food or treat, it likely has a sensitive gastrointestinal tract,” she says. Types of dog food for allergies
Limited ingredient formulas: Foods with fewer ingredients can be better for dogs with allergies, especially if you have pinpointed the cause.
Hydrolyzed protein formulas: These proteins have been broken down into their simplest form, making them easier to digest.
Supplements: Some dog foods contain pro or prebiotics, as well as digestive enzymes that can support digestion and absorption.
Novel proteins: If your dog is sensitive to typical proteins (beef or chicken), try alternatives like venison, duck or rabbit.
What to consider when buying dog food for allergies Ingredients […]
10 best dog foods for allergies so your pet is healthy and happy