HELPING YOUR DOG DEAL WITH FOOD ALLERGIES

If your dog has been diagnosed with food allergies, you may be feeling overwhelmed and unsure of how to help him. Food allergies can be difficult to manage but there are plenty of steps you can take to make sure your pup is as healthy and happy as possible. Let’s look at some key tips on how to do this.

Identify the Allergen(s)

The first step in helping a dog with food allergies is determining what the allergen(s) are. This can be done through a process called elimination dieting, which involves slowly eliminating potential allergens from the dog’s diet until only those that cause an allergic reaction remain. It’s important to note that this should ideally be done under the supervision of a veterinarian or nutritionist so that you don’t accidentally eliminate something essential from your pup’s diet.

Treats are also an important part of the elimination diet. Know what's in them.

Switch Up Your Pup’s Diet

Once you have identified the allergen(s), it’s time to switch up your pup’s diet. Look for hypoallergenic foods specifically designed for dogs with food allergies, as these will typically avoid common allergens such as beef, wheat, and dairy. Additionally, consider adding an Omega-3 fatty acid supplement to your pup's diet; this can help reduce inflammation associated with food allergies and provide additional health benefits as well. If you currently feed kibble, then really read what’s in the food. Things like “Meal” are not actually meat.

This might be a good time to investigate starting to feed a raw diet. This doesn’t mean just getting the cheapest mince from your supermarket and feeding that.

Monitor Your Dog Closely                                                

Once your pup is on his new diet, it’s important to monitor him closely for any signs of an allergic reaction such as itching or skin irritation. If you notice anything out of the ordinary, contact your vet right away for further advice and treatment options. Additionally, if you ever feel like something isn't quite right with your pup's diet or he isn't responding positively to it, reach out to a veterinarian or nutritionist for more personalized guidance and support.  Be mindful that many vet practices carry certain brands of kibble not because they are the best for your dog!!!

Helping a dog with food allergies doesn't have to be overwhelming; it just takes some patience and understanding on your part! While it may take time and effort to identify the allergen(s) causing the reaction and switch up his diet accordingly, doing so will ensure that your pup stays healthy and happy—which is always worth it in the end! If you're ever feeling lost or confused during this process, don't hesitate to reach out for professional help; they'll get you back on track in no time!