Hypoallergenic Dog Diet

Some treats can cause allergies in your dog.

When your dog has allergies, it is much more than an annoyance. There could be itchy skin, oozing sores, bald spots and rashes that bring great discomfort to your dog. A food allergy is the itchiest condition for your dog. Your dog consumes a variety of foods of which the immune system may attack. Inflammation occurs, targeting the gastrointestinal tract and other organ systems, but it is the skin that most often suffers. Putting your dog on a hypoallergenic diet will bring him great comfort, along with a healthier body, skin and coat.

1. Significance

   • According to Marvistavet.com, the classic food allergy signs affecting your dog are itching, chewing and ear infections. The food allergy is one of the itchiest conditions your dog will experience. Many dog foods contain mostly fillers, processed food proteins, colorings and other ingredients that have to be processed through his body. If the immune system cannot recognize what goes in the body, it attacks those foods, causes inflammation in the gastrointestinal tract and other digestive organs.

   Diet Types

   • According to Petinfo.com, there are three proven diet plans for your dog. The hydrolyzed protein diet is available from your veterinarian. The manufacturer of the diet altered the dietary protein molecules to make them so small that they cannot create an allergic reaction in your dog's immune system.

     The elimination diet consists of new protein and carbohydrate that your dog has never eaten. Good sources of protein can be venison, fish, rabbit or duck. Carbohydrate choices may be sweet potatoes or oats. Feed no treats during this period because ingredients in those treats can cause an allergic reaction.

     You can control a homemade diet. Work with your veterinarian regarding the types of possible foods, including hypoallergenic proteins and carbohydrates, along with vegetables, vitamins and minerals. Your veterinarian may suggest trying one of the hypoallergenic commercial diets, which are formulated for those specific needs, then resorting to a home diet if all else fails.

     With supervision by your veterinarian, you can choose a raw diet consisting of raw meats, bones and organs.

   Allergy Foods

   • Certain foods that are common in causing allergies are corn, wheat, chicken, most grains and fillers that seem to aggravate the immune system over time. With your dog on a good hypoallergenic diet, make sure to eliminate any other foods.

   Considerations

   • Hypoallergenic dog foods contain a limited amount of ingredients in order to lessen any allergic reactions. With fewer ingredients, it is easier to pinpoint if your dog is allergic to anything in that food. Many dogs are allergic to certain types of carbohydrates. Some hypoallergenic dog foods contain starches that are safe for dogs. Your veterinarian can offer advice on a proper hypoallergenic diet to fit your dog's needs.

   Benefits

   • If your dog is experiencing food allergies, finding the source of those foods will bring your dog great relief. His coat and skin will improve, along with his attitude and behavior.