5 Signs Your Dog Has Food Allergies

Food allergies in dogs can be a source of discomfort and concern for pet owners, not to mention for the dogs themselves! Just like humans, dogs can develop allergic reactions to certain ingredients in their diet which can lead to a range of symptoms that may affect their overall health and wellbeing. In this blog post, we'll explore five common telltale signs that may indicate your pet has food allergies, and how hemp oil for dogs can help. 

Persistent Itching and Scratching

One of the most noticeable signs of food allergies in dogs is persistent itching and scratching. If you notice that your dog is constantly scratching, biting, or licking at their skin, particularly around their face, ears, paws, or rear end, it could be a sign of an allergic reaction to something in their diet. The itching may be accompanied by redness, inflammation, and the development of hot spots or skin infections. If the itching interferes with or interrupts an activity your dog is already engaged in, like eating or playing, this can also be a sign the condition is worsening. 

Digestive Upset

Food allergies can also manifest as digestive issues in dogs. If your dog experiences recurrent vomiting, diarrhoea, gas, or bloating after eating certain foods, it may indicate an allergic reaction. Pay attention to any changes in your dog's stool consistency, frequency of bowel movements, and overall gastrointestinal health, as these can provide valuable clues about their dietary sensitivities.

Ear Infections

Chronic ear infections are another common sign of food allergies in dogs. Dogs with food allergies may develop inflammation and irritation in their ears, leading to recurrent ear infections characterised by redness, swelling, discharge, and a foul odour. If your dog is prone to ear infections, it's essential to explore the possibility of food allergies as a potential underlying cause.

Skin Issues

In addition to itching and scratching, food allergies can cause a variety of visible skin issues in dogs. These may include dry, flaky skin, rashes, hives, or the development of hot spots or lesions. Be aware of changes in your dog's skin appearance or texture, as any changes can provide valuable clues about their allergic reactions to certain foods.

Chronic Anal Gland Problems

Food allergies may also contribute to chronic anal gland problems in dogs. Anal gland issues, such as impaction, infection, or inflammation, can result in discomfort, scooting, and foul-smelling discharge from the anal glands. If your dog experiences recurrent anal gland problems, it's essential to consider the role that food allergies may be playing in their overall health.

What to Do if You Suspect Food Allergies

The first thing to do if you think your dog has food allergies is to begin a detailed record of your dog's symptoms, including when they occur, how often they occur, and any potential triggers or patterns you notice. This information can be invaluable for your veterinarian in diagnosing and treating your dog's food allergies to help get your pup better faster.

Invest In Dog Food With No Nasties

If your dog is suffering from any of the health conditions mentioned above, it’s time to start investing in dog food that’s going to make a difference. From our regular mixes to our low fat dog food options, Pet Food Australia produces a range of delicious hemp seed oil dog food mixes that are packed full of natural anti-inflammatories, Omega 3, 6, and fatty acids. All of this is proven to help soothe itchy skin and allergies whilst promoting a healthy coat and skin for your furry friend. 

Whether it’s our dog food or our dog shampoo, you can be sure that we know exactly what’s going into our products. What’s more is that they’re all 100% made right here in Australia. Browse our online pet food today and invest in a diet that’s going to keep your dog happy, healthy and allergy-free.