Common Dog Food Allergies

I can say this with utmost confidence that anyone who has a pet dog, he/she is the most adorable, loving, cutest, sweetest friend in the world. I have a handsome, white Spitz and I love him like crazy. The best thing about him, apart from him being silly as ever, is that he always would wake me up by licking my face. Am the one who feeds him fruits in the morning and gives him milk as well. But I didn't know till later that even dogs can get food allergies. There are certain common allergies that you can notice, if paid close attention.

Although flea and tick allergy, along with skin allergies are more common dog allergies, they can also be subjected to food allergies. For more common dog food allergies, keep in mind that corn and wheat are the biggest agents. Typically, dogs (while in the wild) survive on meat only. However, they are fed corn and wheat, added in dog foods, while in captivity. Hence, keeping an eye on what is being fed to your darling pooch is very essential. Canned or dry foods for dogs have fillers, like rice. Which is why, reading the ingredient's label is important before you purchase a particular brand or type of food.

Types of Food Allergies in Dogs

• Whey and grains, mostly wheat
• Eggs or certain meat products
• Certain vegetables, mostly corn
• Soy and dairy products
• Commercial dog foods with additives

Basically, the food allergies are not the result of eating the actual food; it's the preservatives and pesticides they add in the food and some which are present around the food as well; causing an allergic reaction. Now let's take foods that have lamb as an ingredient. So even lamb can be one of the factors behind the food allergies. It is yours and the veterinarian's responsibility to figure out which foods your dog is allergic to.

Signs of Food Allergies

The main signal or allergy symptom you'll notice is itchy skin. This leads to intense scratching and chewing, head shaking, loss of hair, rubbing face, sores, and recurring infections. When any of these allergies and symptoms are overlooked, they can become serious. For example, a minor skin irritation can turn severe with symptoms like diarrhea, throwing up, asthma-like breathing symptoms, seizures, change in behavior, and gas.

As the most common allergies can appear at any age, breed, and gender, knowing what to feed your dog is an essential step for proper dog care. Although we can't stop an allergy from developing, but that doesn't mean we can't take precautionary steps. But with all these talks about what's not good for your dog, we didn't mention anything about the best dog foods for allergies. When you spot any of the signs of the food allergies, quickly visit the veterinarian and find out the root cause.

Generally, almost always, you should see if the dog food you wish to purchase contains protein in food ingredients. As there are many natural and organic dog foods available today, although slightly expensive than other commercial brands, they seem as a better choice for your dog. These natural dog foods have less fillers, which means, even less food will give sufficient nutrients that is required. While battling with food allergies, we need to remind ourselves, that not money but the dog's health is more significant.

Another advantage of him/her consuming natural dog food is that he will poop less as well (that's a big relief at times). And if you wish to eliminate store bought dog foods, you can even feed him/her homemade dog food. There are tons of healthy homemade dog food recipes which can easily be made at home. Why take chances with your pet's health? Giving slightly more attention will give your dog a life free of allergies, and bring a whole lot of peace.