How to deal with dog allergies
There are a variety of ways in which food allergies in dogs become apparent, but the best way to tell if your dog is dealing with an allergy is by watching for changes in their behaviour. Food allergies cannot be cured in dogs, and keeping them under control can also be challenging. All is not lost, though, as there is plenty that you can do to help your dogs’ allergies to stay as controlled as possible.
Changes In Behaviour
As mentioned, there are certain behaviours to watch for in your dog – especially if you are suspicious of an allergy in your dog. Some of the changes in behaviour to watch for include:
- Chronic ear inflammation
- Constantly licking their feet
- Diarrhea
- Gas
- Issues with digestion
- Scratching at his ears
The best thing that you can do is follow the advice of your vet before you try to control the allergy in your dog. Some of the ways that you can deal with dog allergies include the following tips below:
For Food Allergies
Feed Them Well
You must find the best wet dog food that your dog could eat when it comes to combating allergies. The stomach lining of your dog is designed to stop proteins that are too large from being absorbed. This means that their lining is their first allergy defence, and with the right nutrition, you can help them to manage the allergy.
Try Novel Proteins
Novel proteins are basically sources of protein that are new to the dog. When you introduce them to his diet, you help him to reduce the chance of an immune response. Hydrolyzed proteins also trick the immune system, eliminating the possibility of an allergic reaction. Both of these together can help you to stop dog food allergies, and these are only available from your vet on prescription.
Keep Trying!
The best way to deal with your dog’s food allergies is not to give up! The vet can refer you to a canine nutritionist to help, and you can then follow the right instructions to do the best for their health.
For Other Allergies
There are other allergies that are apparent in some dogs that can be cured, and these include both flea allergies and pollen allergies. Your dog can be infested with fleas at any time of the year, and it can be a few days before you notice the infestation. Keeping up with regular treatments can be helpful for the prevention of fleas on your dog, but once you notice them scratching and incessant biting of their coat and skin, you need to get onto an immediate treatment for them.
Pollen allergies are common, too, and you’ll tell when your dog licks his feet all the time. They may also have a runny nose and eyes, too. This may be a seasonal allergy, but without proper treatment, it can last all year.
Your dog can be comfortable with the help of affordable pet care; ask your vet, and they can recommend your next steps.