When you see your dog itching and biting at their skin, many pet owners mistakenly believe that their pup has fleas. However, if you are on a monthly preventative, and you don’t notice any bugs crawling on your dog, there could be another cause. Dog food allergy rash is a common cause of chronic itching in canines. How do you know if it is an allergy? Here are a few key things to look out for.
You Have Ruled Out Other Causes
There are many causes of itchy skin, so it is vital to get to the bottom of any medical problem. Make an appointment with your dog’s veterinarian to ensure there isn’t something else going on. Insects like fleas, ticks and mosquitos can cause an itchy rash. Bacterial infections of the skin, like mange, can also cause chronic itching and fur loss. Food is one of the most common causes of itchy skin, but you need to rule out more severe causes first.
What Are the Symptoms of a Dog Food Allergy Rash?
In a true dog food allergy, you will notice that certain foods will cause an adverse reaction in your dog. The ingredient will trigger your dog to release histamines, which can cause many symptoms, including:
- Hives
- Irritated skin
- Chronic itching
- Biting of the skin
- Vomiting
- Diarrhea
- Behavioral problems
- Trouble breathing
If you notice that your dog is experiencing a dog food allergy rash, talk to your veterinarian. You will need to find the culprit of the allergy, and avoid it whenever possible.
Most Common Allergic Ingredients
While the cause of dog food allergy rash can be vast, there are some common foods that many dogs tend to be allergic to.
Dairy: Many pet owners report that their dog has had an adverse reaction to dairy. This mostly results in gastrointestinal symptoms, as most dogs are lactose intolerant.
Chicken: It is surprising how many dogs are allergic to chicken. Monitor your dog closely if you choose a chicken-based dog food.
Grains: Common ingredients in low-quality dog food, like wheat, soy and corn, are often problematic for canines.
If your dog is experiencing a dog skin allergy rash, a simple diet change can be the answer. Choose a high-quality, grain-free dog food and watch for improvement. Many dog owners report a resolution of chronic itching after switching to a food that eliminates the most common allergens.