5Strands Dog Allergy Tests Review (updated 2024)

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“I was hesitant but desperate for help for my fur baby. The vet had no answers but meds and expensive allergy tests. Sent this off and got the results promptly. I changed her food, followed the results, and noticed a difference in a few days. Her sores have almost healed completely. That was three weeks ago.” Verified review. Amazon

We love our dogs, and there’s nothing worse than being unable to figure out when they’re sick or in discomfort. So if your pup is scratching and licking due to food or environmental sensitivities, and you think you’ve got it under control, think again! With authentic pet food ingredients and environmental testing, it may be easier to determine what your furbaby could be sensitive to. 

That said, it’s essential to keep in mind that not all intolerances show discomfort. Sensitivities, allergies, and intolerances are common for dogs and can cause various problems, from skin irritation to respiratory issues.

The good news is that several dog allergy tests on the market can help you identify what your dog is sensitive to. However, you need to keep in mind that intolerances can manifest from the body lacking the digestive enzymes or the overconsumption/overexposure of an item and that 5Strands does not provide an immune system allergy test. This intolerance test checks for sensitivities and intolerances and is not an allergy test for pets.

What is the 5Strands Pet Food and Environmental Intolerance Test?

5strands kit

That’s where the 5Strands dog allergy testing kits come into play. The 5Strands Pet Food and Environmental Intolerance Test looks at pet food ingredients and environmental intolerances. This pet food and environmental sensitivity test for the home can be compared to a blood allergy test because it’s so accurate. 

We like this test because it’s non-invasive and does not hurt or stress out your pet! So many pet parents that purchased this pet allergy testing kit said they saved so much money. Instead of running expensive allergy tests at the veterinarian, they saved hundreds of dollars with the 5Strands test.

Additionally, the test is very ingredient specific, showing you exactly what to eliminate from your dog’s environment and pet food. It also is easy and non-invasive, and less stressful, less expensive than doing allergy testing at your veterinarian.

If your pup is doing plenty of paw licking, suffers from excessive scratching, or even has occasional bouts of digestive issues, it may be time to do some allergy testing.

Gas, hair loss, and hot spots are all troubling indicators of allergies in pets and don’t suddenly disappear. The best way to deal with dog allergies is to test them with the vet-recommended 5Strands pet food and environmental allergy at-home test so that you can eliminate the allergens and give your dog a healthy and long life.

Research on the skin of allergic dogs

A study published in 2014 about the skin microbiome in allergic and healthy dogs explained that “The skin of allergic dogs had lower species richness when compared to the healthy dogs. This study aimed to describe the microbiome’s diversity inhabiting different areas of the canine skin, including mucosal surfaces, mucocutaneous junctions, and haired skin sites. The researchers wanted to compare the skin microbiome of healthy dogs to dogs with allergies. 

The study found that allergic dogs had lower proportions of the Betaproteobacteria Ralstonia spp. when compared to the healthy dogs.” The study explains that dogs develop atopic dermatitis (AD) with hypersensitivity to environmental allergens such as house dust mites and food allergens.

The study demonstrates that AD is one of dogs’ most common chronic skin diseases, affecting 10% of dogs. The study explains that primary lesions in dogs affected with AD show up as “intensely pruritic erythematous macules and patches and the most common sites of lesions are the front and hind paws, axilla, and abdomen (inguinal region).” Pets with AD will also often suffer from secondary bacterial infections and /or fungal infections, most commonly due to Staphylococcus pseudintermedius. These infections result in skin lesions with papules, pustules, crusts, and alopecia.

The study concluded that “that each skin site from each dog evaluated here was inhabited by a variable and unique microbiome, with significant individual variability between samples from different dogs and between different skin sites within the same dog.” Dogs with allergies also had significantly lower species richness when compared to healthy dogs.

What does the 5Strands dog allergy test do?

This at-home test is one of the most comprehensive on the market and can help you identify a range of allergies, including food allergies, environmental allergies, and more. In this 5 Strands dog allergy test review, we’ll look closely at everything this kit offers. 

This buying guide will examine why it’s necessary to check your pet for allergies. Even if your dog is not showing signs of allergies, it’s always a good idea to use an intolerance testing kit so that you can feed correctly and keep your pup away from household and food allergens that could trigger off excessive itching, diarrhea, licking, face rubbing, loss of fur and other gastrointestinal signs. Intolerances can manifest from the body lacking the digestive enzymes or the overconsumption/overexposure of an item.

If you’re looking for a way to determine whether or not your dog has allergies, 5Strands Dog Allergy Test may be a good option. This test is designed to provide you with information about what your dog is sensitive to, so that you can make changes to his or her diet or environment accordingly.

Company Overview

If you’re a pet parent, you know that our furry friends can sometimes be allergic to things in their environment. Dogs, in particular, can be quite sensitive to various environmental triggers, which is why it’s essential to get them tested for allergies.

5Strands is a company based out of Lawrenceville, Georgia, USA. It’s a startup that was created to change healthcare. Their mission statement says they want people and pets alike empowered by providing information on how their food or environmental substances may affect one’s health in general and any allergies/sensitivity issues, too – all without having expensive doctor visits! 

They offer comprehensive testing services that can help you identify the source of your dog’s allergies, intolerances, and sensitivities so that you can provide them with the relief they need. For example, the website adds, “Hair testing eliminates storage, transportation, and usability constraints associated with other types of tissue samples. The hair is stable. It’s not affected by factors such as recent meals, stress, medications, etc.”

Verified reviews

Best Pet Intolerance Test Out There

“I’m so happy that I stumbled upon this intolerance test for my Pomeranian; she’s been battling black skin disease, hair loss, and thinning for two years. We couldn’t understand why she suddenly got it. Come to find out; she was allergic to everything we were feeding her, like her chicken kibble and even strawberries and berries. It hasn’t even been a month, and we’re already noticing her skin healing and new hair growth. I HIGHLY recommend this test for all parents whose vet told them that their Pomeranian has alopecia X; chances are your dog is just intolerant to something you’re feeding them. This was worth every penny! I wish I had known and found this sooner. THANKS, 5Strands!!! “

Crystal P. United States 

Best thing I’ve done for my dog’s health and happiness

“By far the best thing I’ve done for my dog’s health and happiness. I’ve done allergy tests by veterinarians before, and they don’t come close to this test. If I could give another star for the ease of the app, I would, and the quick search the app has to look up something on the test quickly is amazing. I highly recommend and will buy more for other dogs in my family. My pit bull had very bad allergies, and until this test, I couldn’t pinpoint what to eliminate; it turns out she was highly allergic to fish and poultry, which are supposed to be good for skin and coats. So I traded one allergy for another, trying to eliminate it without the test. Now that I have the results, she’s already itching less and not digging “into her neck and ears. Hopefully, she’ll be off allergy medication in the future. That you guys SO much for making this amazing product!!!!”

Jennifer C. Wyalusing, Pennsylvania, United States

5strands why to choose

What is Bio- resonance Testing?

If you’re curious about bio-resonance testing, here’s the takeaway: Bio- resonance testing is a great way to manage atopy in dogs by helping identify the allergens that are triggering your dog’s symptoms and then avoiding or minimizing their exposure to these.

The best way of doing this quickly is by using the 5Strands dog allergy testing kit. This will give you a good indication of the allergens your dog is reacting to so you can avoid them. 5Strands pet food and environmental intolerance testing use bio resonance testing. 

5Strands adds that “The many types of matter in our world share characteristics of both waves and particles, emitting electromagnetic waves. Every person, pet, microbe, food substance, or toxin has its wavelength or frequency with unique characteristics. This accounts for all cells in the body, including substances like pollens, toxins, viruses, bacteria, food, etc.”

What do they test?

This company offers a simple hair test using bio-resonance technology to measure food and environmental allergies in pets. The company website explains that “your sample is stored in a container for up to 30 days. This allows opportunity for additional testing without sending a new sample. A biohazard company comes every 30 days to pick up the samples and disposes of them according to EPA, OSHA, and CDC guidelines.”

How to administer?

We found the 5Strands dog allergy test easy to administer, giving us results quickly. The test did not require a blood sample, which was a big plus for us. We also appreciated that the test was affordable and covered a wide range of potential allergens.

Overall, we were pleased with the 5Strands Dog Allergy Test and would recommend it to anyone looking for a way to test their dog for allergies. In addition, at-home allergy testing kits for dogs like 5Strands test hair samples make testing a simple and stress-free experience for you and your pet

Fast Results in 5-7 days

5 Strands uses hair strands and scans your pet’s hair sample (10-15 strands) using bio resonance technology to provide an extensive, easy-to-understand report which you receive. Once the results have been completed, they will automatically be uploaded and available on the portal and your 5Strands app. You will also receive an emailed copy of the testing results to the email you registered with.

Comprehensive testing

The takeaway from the 5Strands Pet Food and Environment Testing Kit

It determines the key intolerances your cat or dog may have to 380 of the most common pet food ingredients and environmental items. We like this pet-friendly intolerance testing kit because it offers intolerance testing for proteins, grains, additives, preservatives, fruits, seafood, meal, grass, chemicals, plants, fabrics and more!

The 5-strands dog sensitivity test is one of the most comprehensive intolerance tests for dogs on the market. If you are looking for a way to test your dog for intolerances, the 5-strands Dog Sensitivity Test is a good option. It is easy to administer, affordable, and covers a wide range of potential allergens. 

Features

Pros

Cons

How to use a sensitivity and intolerance allergy testing kit?

This testing kit is easy to use, with results within 5-7 days. All you need to do is register your kit after you receive it, collect your dog’s hair sample (10-15 hair strands) and wait for the results. Best of all, you get to follow the guidelines that will tell you exactly what your dog is allergic to. This includes environmental and pet food allergens, up to 380 of the most common pet allergens affecting pets in 2022.

5strands how the test works

Food allergies

Food allergies are less common than airborne allergies in pets. Although the signs are similar, the age of onset differs. The intensity and distribution of itching will vary between pets.

Animals with food allergies typically show symptoms in early adulthood (1-3 years of age), whereas those with airborne allergies usually show signs in puppyhood or adolescence.

There are a few different types of food allergies in pets. The most common is an allergy to a protein source, such as beef, chicken, lamb, or fish. Pets can also be allergic to carbohydrates such as corn, wheat, soy, and milk. In some cases, pets may be allergic to both protein and carbohydrates. 

Food allergies in pets may result in inflammation of the stomach lining and intestines, and the first sign in dogs is usually vomiting which occurs within 1-2 hours of eating. The dog is generally healthy apart from vomiting, and you may think it’s nothing but a spell of tummy upset. However, further signs of dog food allergies will usually include the following:

  • Weight loss
  • Diarrhea
  • Soft feces
  • Poor coat condition

 

Interestingly, food allergies often occur right after an intestinal infection, whereby your vet controls the diet and advises feeding a low-protein diet with limited ingredients. In addition, commercial prescription diets can also provide good relief for dogs.

Concurrent diseases may complicate identifying food allergies, but when using the 5 Strands dog allergy test, you’ll be able to determine exactly what your dog is allergic to.

Food trial

The best way to diagnose a food allergy is through a food trial. This involves feeding your pet a diet containing only novel ingredients they have never eaten.

For example, if your pet is suspected of being allergic to chicken, they will be fed a diet that contains a protein source they have never eaten, such as duck or rabbit. 

If the signs of allergies improve on the novel diet and then worsen when you start feeding them their old food again, they likely have a food allergy. A food trial can be lengthy, often taking 8-12 weeks for skin issues and 3-4 weeks for digestive issues.

Once a food allergy has been diagnosed, the best way to manage it is by feeding your pet a hypoallergenic diet. This is a diet that contains ingredients that your pet is not allergic to. Your veterinarian can help you select an appropriate diet for your pet.

There are a few other things that you can do to help manage your pet’s food allergies. Feeding them smaller, more frequent meals may help to reduce the severity of their symptoms. You should also avoid giving them table scraps or other food that is not part of their hypoallergenic diet.

If you think your pet has a food allergy, it is important to take them to a veterinarian so it can be properly diagnosed and treated. Additionally, using the 5-strands dog allergy test, you can identify the specific allergen and choose a hypoallergenic diet that is right for your pet. With proper management, most pets with food allergies can live happy and healthy lives.

Airborne allergies (Atopy)

Fewer than 10% of dogs are genetically predisposed to become sensitized to environmental allergens. Both male and female dogs can be allergic to materials in the air they breathe, the food they eat, or substances that come into contact with their skin. These include pollen from grasses and trees, mold spores, house dust mites, cigarette smoke, and chemicals.

Dogs with atopy have increased mast cells, and higher levels of a chemical called histamine in their skin. When they come into contact with an allergen, these mast cells are triggered and release histamine and other chemicals, causing the symptoms of atopy. Breeds that are most disposed to developing allergies include the following:

  • Chinese Shar-Peis
  • Labrador Retrievers 
  • West Highland Terriers
  • Dalmatians
  • Scottish Terriers
  • Shih Tzus
  • Boxers
  • Boston Terriers
  • Wirehaired Fox Terriers

 

Dogs’ most common symptoms of atopy include itching, red or inflamed skin, hair loss, and recurrent ear infections. Some dogs may also experience gastrointestinal upset, such as vomiting or diarrhea.

The good news is that many ways to manage atopy and help your dog feel more comfortable. Talk to your vet about the best way to manage your dog’s condition.

There is no cure for atopy, but many ways to manage the condition and make your dog more comfortable. The key is to identify the allergens triggering your dog’s symptoms and then avoid or minimize their exposure to these. The best way of doing this quickly is by using the 5 Strands dog allergy testing kit. This will give you a good indication of the allergens your dog is reacting to so you can avoid them.

Other management strategies include:

  • Bathing your dog regularly with a mild, hypoallergenic shampoo to help reduce itching and inflammation
  • Applying a topical anti-inflammatory cream or ointment to the affected areas of your dog’s skin
  • Giving your dog oral antihistamines or corticosteroids as prescribed by your vet
  • Feeding your dog a hypoallergenic diet if they are found to be allergic to certain ingredients in their food
  • Using air purifiers and HEPA filters in your home to help remove allergens from the air
  • Vacuuming regularly and using dust mite covers on beds and upholstered furniture to help reduce exposure to house dust mites

With proper management, most dogs with atopy can live happy and comfortable lives.

Skin allergies

5Strands pet food allergy and environmental intolerance testing allow for 380 items tested, with only 1–15 strands of your pet’s hair. You also get to receive the test results within seven days. 

5Strands adds, “The Pet Food Intolerance Test covers proteins, grains, vegetables, fruits, fats, seafood, additives, and preservatives. Of the 275+ items tested, the results will show only the items your pet registered an intolerance to. The intolerances are listed into three levels based on the response upon exposure. Utilizing the items that register a Level 3 response will create the recommended 6-8-week elimination guideline.

Please try not to feed your pet any food items not tested for during the elimination period. You will not know how they will respond to these items. Level 2 items may be affecting their body and causing noticeable symptoms. Level 1 items are just beginning to affect their body on a cellular level. Your pet should consume these Level 2 & Level 1 items at most 2-3 times per week.

Allergic rhinitis (nasal allergies in dogs)

Similar to humans, pets can suffer from seasonal allergies, usually caused by pollen exposure. This can result in sneezing and a watery nasal discharge called allergic rhinitis. 

Additionally, non-seasonal rhinitis can be caused by exposure to allergens like molds, bedding, feeds, dander, and so forth. The condition is diagnosed when there is a favorable response to antihistamines and the disappearance of all signs of the antigens when it’s removed. 5Strands at home dog allergy testing

Talk to your vet if you think your dog may be allergic to something in their environment. They will be able to help you identify the cause of your dog’s symptoms and develop a management plan to relieve their discomfort.

Final thoughts

From diarrhea to gut issues and appetite loss, dog food ingredients and environmental allergens can affect your pet for months or even years while you try to figure out and remedy chronic problems like hair loss, excessive itching, vomiting, and weight loss. 

While we all know how hard it can be to diagnose pets’ intolerances and how expensive allergy testing can be at veterinary clinics, there’s no reason to delay testing today. Using the 5Strands dog food and environmental testing kit, you can check for any intolerances, reasons for chronic ear infections, and all food sensitivities.

The 5strands dog intolerance tests are the most comprehensive and accurate tests available. They test for sensitivities to both food and environmental allergens, whereas other tests only test for food allergies. For example, 5strands dog allergy tests determine the key intolerances your cat or dog may have to 380 of the most common pet food ingredients and environmental items.
Results typically take 5-7 days. The takeaway with this dog sensitivity testing kit, is that your pet does not have to have ever consumed or encountered any of these items (both food & environmental) to register a response.
Results typically take 5-7 days. The takeaway with this dog sensitivity testing kit, is that your pet does not have to have ever consumed or encountered any of these items (both food & environmental) to register a response.
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Claudia Bensimoun

Claudia Bensimoun is a freelance journalist and SEO writer specializing in veterinary, pharmaceutical, and CBD content for the pet industry. Since 2013, she has contributed to various publications, including Animal Wellness, Fido Friendly, Bored Panda, USDAA, and World Cynosport Rally.
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