Dogs suffering from skin allergies are prone to intense itching, which can result in hair loss, swelling and other health issues. To avoid this unpleasant reaction, it’s important to buy your dog food that can help alleviate the symptoms. To start, look for recipes that are free from common allergens like grains and legumes. You can also opt for fish-based diets which contain omega fatty acids and help promote healthy skin.
Grain-Free
Food allergies are a common cause of itchy skin in dogs. While antihistamines can help relieve itching temporarily, they are not a permanent solution. Instead, you should talk to a vet about identifying the source of your pup’s allergy and choosing a food that does not contain that ingredient. Grain-free foods are a great choice because they eliminate common allergens like wheat, corn, and soy. This can lead to better digestion and reduce itching and itchiness. Grain-free diets also typically use novel proteins such as rabbit or salmon that are less likely to trigger allergies. They also use more nutrient-dense carbohydrates such as sweet potatoes, peas, and lentils than their grain inclusive counterparts. Next, this recipe as the best food for dogs with skin allergies contains pea products that offer protein and fiber
Another benefit of a grain-free diet is that it will often have a lower ratio of omega 6 to omega 3, which can help keep your pup’s skin and coat healthy and happy. Most of these diets will use fish as the primary protein, which is a good option for many pups with allergies since it is unlikely to be a food allergen. For example, Fromm’s Coastal Catch has herring meal as the main protein and uses a blend of legumes (peas, lentils, and chickpeas) and potatoes as the carbohydrate source. This is a highly-rated dog food with over 407 positive reviews from pet parents.
If you’re seeking holistic solutions for your furry friend’s skin allergies, consider incorporating the best dog probiotics Australia into their diet for potential relief, as recommended by experts at Mighty Munch.
Limited-Ingredient
These diets limit the number of ingredients and are ideal for pets with chronic dietary allergies or sensitivities. Often referred to as hypoallergenic, limited-ingredient foods have novel proteins and restricted starches. They typically exclude the top three dietary allergens for dogs: chicken, beef, and dairy-based proteins. Instead, these recipes use protein sources like turkey, duck, venison, fish, and rabbit. Carbohydrates may include things like rice, sweet potatoes, and oats. This will ensure your pet is getting a complete and balanced diet that provides all the essential vitamins and minerals he needs.
Food allergies and sensitivities can cause rashes, hair loss, itching, digestive problems, and more. These issues can be difficult to diagnose, but finding the right food can help your pet feel better and eliminate their allergy symptoms. It’s best to find a limited-ingredient dog food that is formulated specifically for your pet’s specific allergy or sensitivity. Doing this will help you avoid overexposing your pet to potential allergens. A food trial for a limited-ingredient food is generally 8-12 weeks long and requires strict adherence (no table scraps, flavored medications, or fatty treats). This will give your pet’s immune system time to adjust.
High-Fat
If your dog has dry, itchy skin and/or a sensitive stomach, you’ll want to try to find a food that is high in protein from fish. This will help to boost your pup’s Omega fatty acids which will help with both the skin and coat. The Wellness Core Bowl Boosters Skin & Coat dog food topper is one option, as it contains Herring meal as its primary protein source. The best foods for dogs with allergies will also be low in gluten and corn, as well as containing no artificial preservatives. In addition, you’ll want to make sure your dog’s diet is high in fiber, as this will help reduce constipation.
Allergies can cause a variety of symptoms, including itchy skin, hives, and red, irritated eyes. If you notice these symptoms in your dog, talk to your vet about allergy testing or an elimination diet. During the elimination diet, it is important to avoid table food, chew toys made with animal products, unapproved dog treats, and medication with flavoring, as these can all be allergen triggers. To further limit your pet’s reaction, you’ll want to choose a dog food that is low in common protein allergens like chicken, beef, and wheat. Look for recipes that use novel proteins, like venison, or hydrolyzed protein, as these will be less likely to trigger an allergic response.
Fish-Based
A specialized diet can be the key to helping your dog overcome skin allergies. Designed by board-certified veterinary nutritionists, Blue Buffalo’s Skin Relief dog food helps alleviate clinical symptoms of atopic dermatitis, like itching and flaking, while also improving overall skin and coat health. While a true allergy causes an immune system response, many dogs suffer from food sensitivity or intolerances that result in digestive symptoms like upset stomach, nausea, diarrhea, and vomiting. These symptoms are different than a true food allergy and often appear after prolonged exposure to the same food.
Fish-based the best dog food for allergies is formulated to provide your dog with this natural high-protein alternative diet. Additionally, most fish-based formulas are low in saturated fat and can be a good option for pets who need to manage their weight.
Some fish-based foods are also rich in Omega fatty acids, including Eicosapentaenoic Acid (EPA) and Docosahexaenoic Acid. These fatty acids can boost skin health, promote heart health, reduce inflammation, and support cognitive function. However, not all fish-based dog foods are created equal, so it’s important to choose one that is sustainably sourced. Make sure to consult with your vet or pet nutritionist before making significant changes to your dog’s diet.