What to Feed a Dog with Allergies

What to feed a dog with allergies is a problem faced by increasing numbers of dog owners. Whether your dog is suffering from skin or food allergies, a quality diet is the first line of defense in a battle that will likely last the rest of the dog's life. Many commercial dog foods are made with common food allergens and for many dogs, there is no problem with that food. Allergies usually build up over time with repeated exposure to the specific allergen. You can take your dog to a specialist who will run specific tests to detect allergies, but a more cost effective method would be to test various foods and see how your dog reacts to the new food.

Common Food Allergens

The following foods are usually the main cause of food allergies. Check the label and if you see these ingredients listed, look for another food.

  • Wheat

  • Corn

  • Dairy

  • Beef

  • Chicken

  • Eggs

  • Yeast

  • Chemical food additives such as dyes and preservatives

Dog food manufacturers have developed a whole new industry devoted to hypoallergenic foods. These foods are available in many forms to suit every dog and his owner.

Forms of Commercially Prepared Hypoallergenic Dog Food Available

Commercial Hypoallergenic dog food comes in various forms:

  • Dry kibble

  • Canned

  • Freeze-dried

  • Frozen raw patties

  • Fresh refrigerated

What to Look for in a Hypoallergenic Dog Food

Look for dog foods that use a unique protein source that your dog has not eaten before. Some suggestions for unique proteins are:

  • Duck

  • Lamb

  • Rabbit

  • Venison

  • Kangaroo

Also check for a unique carbohydrate such as rice, potato or sweet potato.

Where to Buy Hypoallergenic Dog Food

You can buy hypoallergenic dog food from big box pet stores, some grocery stores, natural food stores, feed mills and on various online stores. Most veterinarians also offer hypoallergenic food, usually in canned or kibble form.

Alternative to Commercial Dog Food

A popular alternative for some owners is to buy ingredients and prepare the dog food themselves. You can feed it raw or cooked, whatever feels best to you. If you choose to prepare you dog's food, make sure that you include the four essential nutrients necessary for optimum health.

 Essential nutrients include, but are not limited to:

  • Proteins: help ensure proper development of muscles, bones and skin. Dogs in different stages of life need varying amounts of protein.

  • Carbohydrates: provide fast energy in the form of glucose to help maintain healthy organs such as the heart, kidneys, liver and thyroid.

  • Fats: necessary for long term energy, usually delivered in the form of olive, canola or vegetable oils.

  • Fibers: supports gastrointestinal motility to ward off diarrhea and constipation. Older dogs usually require more fiber than young dogs. Fiber is also helpful in weight management. Extra fiber adds bulk to the diet and makes the dog feel fuller without adding excess calories.

Check with your veterinarian or an animal nutritionist before making major changes in your dog's feeding regimen to ensure a well-balanced diet that will help your dog live a long and healthy life.

 

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