Allergic reactions in dogs may manifest themselves as itching and in some cases diarrhea.
About 5 to 10 percent of all allergic reactions in dogs are attributed to Food allergies.
Diagnosis of a food allergy requires strict dietary management to make sure no allergy-triggering food is ingested by your dog.
This dietary management process is a very demanding diagnostic process. Because food allergy symptoms resemble those of other canine allergies – and because effective treatment depends on pinpointing the specific allergen affecting your dog – diagnosing food allergies is challenging for both owners and veterinarians.
It takes more than one exposure to a food ingredient to incite an allergic reaction so if your pet has an immediate adverse reaction to a diet change, the reaction is probably not an allergy.
The most common signs of a food allergy are inflamed itchy skin usually around a pet’s feet, face, ears, armpits, and groin.
The inflamed itchy skin lease to scratching and biting which can lead to secondary bacterial skin infections and ear canal infections.
Some food-allergic animals experience vomiting and diarrhea instead of – or along with – skin problems. If you suspect your dog might have allergies or an allergic reaction contact your veterinarian for treatment.
