Just like humans, dogs can develop food allergies that can cause discomfort and health issues. And as pet owners, knowing about common dog food allergies and how to treat them effectively is vital. 

In this blog post, we’ll talk about the most prevalent food allergies in dogs, including nut, beef and corn allergies. We’ll also shed some light on how to identify and manage these allergies, providing practical tips and treatment options to ensure the well-being of your furry companion.

Common food allergies in dogs

Food allergies in dogs can cause a range of concerns and require careful attention from pet owners. 

Below is a list of some common dog food allergies and their corresponding symptoms. Recognising these signs and symptoms is the first step towards providing your dog with the necessary care and preventing health complications:

• Nut allergy in dogs — Dogs can develop allergies to nuts, including peanuts, almonds and walnuts. Symptoms may include itching, skin rashes, digestive issues and even respiratory distress in severe cases.
• Beef allergy in dogs — Beef is a common allergen for dogs. Allergic reactions may manifest as itching, hives, vomiting, diarrhoea and even ear infections. Beef by-products and fillers found in some dog foods can also trigger allergies.
• Corn allergy in dogs — Corn is a common ingredient in many dog foods, but some dogs may develop allergies to it. Symptoms can include skin irritation, itching, gastrointestinal problems and ear infections. Corn sensitivity can also be associated with other grain allergies.

Identifying food allergies in dogs

Signs and symptoms of allergies can suddenly crop up in dogs, but it can be hard to pinpoint what exactly is causing them — you might think it’s caused by an illness or other health condition. To help you out, we’ve listed a couple of methods used to identify food allergies in dogs: 

• Veterinary consultation — If you suspect your dog has a food allergy, consult a veterinarian immediately. They can conduct allergy tests, eliminate other possible causes of the symptoms and provide guidance on managing the specific allergen.
• Elimination diet — An elimination diet involves removing potential allergens from your dog’s diet and reintroducing them one by one to identify the specific trigger. Your veterinarian can guide you through this process to determine the allergen causing the adverse reactions.

How to treat food allergies in dogs

Understanding the treatment options for dog food allergies is essential for effective management. 

The different approaches to treating food allergies in dogs include dietary modifications, prescription diets, medications and immunotherapy, among others. By tailoring the treatment to your dog’s specific needs, you can help them find relief from the adverse effects of food allergies and improve their overall quality of life:

• Prescription diets — Your veterinarian may prescribe a specially formulated hypoallergenic or prescription diet that excludes the allergen. These diets are designed to provide balanced nutrition while avoiding the triggering ingredients.
• Medications — In some cases, medications such as antihistamines or steroids may be prescribed to alleviate the symptoms of food allergies. However, these should be used under veterinary supervision.
• Nutritional supplements — Certain supplements, such as omega-3 fatty acids, can help support skin health and reduce inflammation associated with food allergies. Be sure to consult your veterinarian before adding any supplements to your dog’s diet.
• Allergen-specific immunotherapy — In severe cases, allergen-specific immunotherapy may be recommended. This involves gradually exposing the dog to small amounts of the allergen to desensitise their immune system.
• Novel protein and limited ingredient diets — Switching to a novel protein or limited ingredient diet can help manage food allergies. These diets use alternative protein sources such as duck, venison or fish, which your dog may not have been exposed to before.
• Avoidance of allergens — Once the allergen is identified, it’s essential to completely eliminate it from your dog’s diet. Read food labels carefully, avoid feeding your dog table scraps and be cautious of cross-contamination when handling different foods.

Food allergies can significantly impact a dog’s quality of life, but with proper identification and management, they can be effectively treated. By working closely with your veterinarian, conducting elimination diets and selecting appropriate diets and treatments, you can relieve your pup of dog food allergies and help them lead a healthier, happier life. 

Also, note that each dog is unique, and what works for one may not work for another. Patience, persistence and professional guidance are key to effectively managing food allergies in dogs and ensuring their overall well-being.

Soothe allergy woes with MfM’s hypoallergenic dog food: a gentle solution for food sensitivities

When addressing your dog’s food allergies and sensitivities, MfM Australia has the perfect solution. Our hypoallergenic dog food range is specially formulated to treat sensitive tummies and alleviate allergy-related discomfort gently. 

With carefully selected ingredients and rigorous testing, our nutritionists and food scientists have created a range of high-quality, hypoallergenic formulas that cater to common allergies like nuts, beef and corn. 

Let your fur baby experience the benefits of MfM’s hypoallergenic, all-natural, holistic diet today! Browse our premium range of dog food, treats, puppy food and pet supplements today and help your dog thrive, free from the discomfort of food allergies. 

Need assistance in choosing the right products for your pup or further guidance and advice on dog food allergies? Contact us.