Just like their human owners, dogs can also suffer from allergies. But while a human can tell you if they are suffering from a bad reaction to food, you’ll have to rely on different cues when it comes to your four-legged friends. With this in mind, Green Pantry, a pet food company that specialises in providing healthy and hypoallergenic dog food, has partnered with Molly Norman, owner of Groomtastic Dog Spa in Beccles, to explain the signs that your canine could be suffering from allergies.
She says: « Much like humans, dogs can be allergic or intolerant to certain foods, and it can be tricky to identify what is causing a reaction in your dog. Getting to the bottom of this kind of problem requires detailed attention and, in many cases, dietary adjustments.
« The most common dietary allergies are often to popular pet food flavours such as chicken or beef. Dairy and wheat can also be a common allergen in dogs.
« While all dog breeds can be prone to allergies, Westies are typically more prone to skin problems and food allergies along with French Bulldogs. While Golden Retrievers are thought to be super hardy, they can actually be very sensitive too.
« After consulting with your vet, you may need to safely eliminate certain foods from your dog’s diet as a way of uncovering the problem. They may even suggest feeding your dog a novel protein and carbohydrate diet, with ingredients they’ve never tried before, to ease symptoms, before reintroducing other foods. »
If you suspect that your dog may be suffering from an allergic reaction, be sure to take them to the vet for advice.
Persistent itching
Molly notes that frequent itching that is unrelated to flea infestations, or dry skin conditions, can be a sign of allergies. She adds that some of the more common areas for your dog to feel irritated are around the ears, face and muzzle, on the paws, the underarms or groin, on the belly and inner thighs and around the bum. Be sure to keep an eye out when grooming your pooch – or ask your groomer if they have spotted any red, inflamed skin or sores.
Lots of head shaking
Allergic reactions can inflame the skin inside the ear canal, creating a warm, moist environment where yeast and bacteria can grow, often leading to ear infections. When suffering from itchy and irritated ears, your dog will likely start regularly shaking their head in an attempt to make themselves more comfortable.
While this may be a symptom of allergies, dogs can develop ear infections for numerous different reasons, so be sure to check with your vet before switching their food.
Excessively licking or chewing paws
« It’s not uncommon for dogs to hurt or cut their paws, especially when they’re playing or out on walks, » explains Molly. « A dog’s natural reaction is to lick where the skin is damaged, to help soothe the area. » However, she adds that if they continue to lick or chew for several weeks, or if the skin starts to look red, it may be time to head to the vet to ask about allergies.
Stomach disturbances
Just like humans, if a dog has a bad reaction to food, it can lead to stomach issues. Look out for gastrointestinal disturbances, with symptoms such as vomiting, diarrhoea, stomach noises, or increased gas.
Behavioural changes
When dogs feel stressed or uncomfortable, it can start to affect their mood, and this can lead to them reacting completely out of character. For example, they may avoid being touched or could even growl at you as a warning to stay away. They could also appear lethargic and tired, even if they haven’t done much that day.
Poor coat quality
The quality of your dog’s fun could also be a sign of allergies. Molly explains: « Allergic reactions can trigger skin inflammation which can also impact your dog’s ability to absorb important nutrients that are essential for a healthy fur coat. Persistent scratching can also damage the fur and remove the natural oils that keep the coat looking shiny. »
