Food Allergies
When a dog’s immune system mistakenly identifies a specific food or one of its components as harmful, it triggers an immune response. This reaction can affect the entire body, leading to a range of symptoms from skin irritations to gastrointestinal issues. Similar to the body’s defense against pathogens like viruses or bacteria, the immune system targets food allergens, potentially causing widespread health issues.
- Although food allergies are less common than sensitivities, they can trigger significant immune responses.
- Common allergens include beef, dairy, chicken, eggs, wheat, and soy. These reactions may arise due to genetic predispositions or environmental factors.
Food Intolerances
Unlike allergies, food intolerances in dogs do not involve the immune system. They are often linked to problems digesting food rather than an immune system reaction.
- Food intolerances occur more frequently than true food allergies and arise when a dog’s digestive system cannot process certain foods or ingredients.
- While rarely life-threatening, intolerances can significantly affect a dog’s quality of life, often displaying symptoms similar to those of food allergies.
Identifying Food Allergies and Intolerances
Food allergies and intolerances can appear at any age, with certain breeds showing a greater predisposition. These include Chinese Shar-Peis, Wirehaired Fox Terriers, Golden Retrievers, Dalmatians, Boxers, Boston Terriers, Labrador Retrievers, Lhasa Apsos, Scottish Terriers, Shih Tzus, and West Highland White Terriers. However, dogs of any breed or mixed breeds can develop allergies. Research indicates that most dog owners observe signs of allergies or intolerances when their dogs are between 1 to 6 years of age.
Typical Signs of Food Allergy
The most commonly observed dermatological symptoms are licking and chewing their paws (72%), bilateral ear infections (48%), and diagnosed skin infections (40%). The most common gastrointestinal signs include excessive gas (46%), soft stools (44%), and vomiting (38%).
The frequently reported allergens are beef, dairy, and chicken, which lead to a range of symptoms from dermatological issues to gastrointestinal distress.
Recommendations
For dogs prone to allergies or intolerances, incorporating novel proteins into their diet can help minimize adverse reactions. These proteins, which are less commonly found in dog food—such as kangaroo, deer, or plant-based alternatives—are less likely to have been previously encountered by the dog’s immune system, thereby reducing the risk of an allergic reaction.
