How to Look Out for Dog Allergies & Skin Sensitivities
Dogs are just as susceptible to skin allergies and sensitivities as you and I. While we always recommend taking your pooch to a certified veterinarian to identify these conditions with certainty, it is helpful to learn what to look out for and what you can do to help.
Types of Allergies in Dogs
Like humans, a dog’s allergy is a negative bodily reaction to certain substances. Most found in the form of skin varieties; however food and environmental based allergies are certainly common.
Skin Allergies
After you have ruled out the likelihood of itchy skin, fleas, or just an itch that they may have – it may be your dog has a negative or even allergic reaction to the food you may be giving to them.
Signs to look out for if they have skin issues
- Itchy and frequent scratching of the skin
- Unpleasant smell
- Greasy skin and coat – not glossy!
- Excessive licking, chewing, or biting one area of their body
- Red or inflamed skin
- Hair loss
- Skin infections
Food Allergies
A dog’s food allergy comes from their body reacting to a food particle and will cause an inflammatory reaction. Food allergies also include food intolerances and both conditions may develop when your companion is one (seven haha) or older.
The most recommended way to determine if your pet has a food allergy is to visit the vet and determine which food is the cause. You must work with your vet so that you can both manage your dog’s symptoms and treat the cause effectively.
Treating your pet’s allergy is as simple as eliminating the allergen from their diet. Take our quiz to see what food you should be feeding your dog.
Signs to look out for if they have food allergies
- Itchiness or redness
- Licking of their paws
- Ear or foot infections
- Vomiting and/or diarrhea
- Excessive gas or flatulence
Environmental Allergies
Environmental allergens such as dust, pollen, or mold can cause atopic reactions, that is, responses to substances present in the environment. Your dog’s most common area to react is around its paws and ears.
Treating your dog’s environmental allergies is as simple as removing the allergens from their skin and managing them with shampoo and conditioner targeted to treat and soothe.
Treating Your Dog’s Allergies
The best management strategy for your dog’s allergies is to restrict their exposure to their allergen. Whilst we understand that this can vary greatly in difficulty, especially with environmental allergens, planning your dog’s movements, monitoring for reactions, and omitting their intolerance/allergy could save you and your pooch a trip to the vet.
Talking of food allergy solutions, here at A La Carte we care about the health of your fur family; so, we have created formulas suited for all their needs. Our food is prepared with love and with a French twist that makes it irresistible for all dogs, even the pickiest of eaters! All whilst being proudly made in Australia using only Australian ingredients.
We recommend either Our Salmon & Potato or Grain Free Range (chicken/salmon) for dogs with skin allergies, as it removes the common allergens of grain, whilst maintaining high levels of proteins and fats. This is to ensure your dogs can go about life energetically whilst itch-free and with a thick glossy coat. If you are looking to get a bag you are in luck, as we keep our prices affordable all year round and offer discounts on bulk purchases.
Want to learn more about which of our foods are best for your dog? Contact us here, we are always happy to help.
