An allergy refers to a hypersensitivity of the immune system to otherwise typically harmless substances, like pollen, food or even temperature changes.
Sneezing, wheezing, runny noses, irritation: these are tell-tale signs of allergies. And like people, dogs can have allergies too. These are caused by allergens, which can be any substance or environmental condition that can trigger an allergic reaction.
SPOTTING ALLERGIC REACTIONS
Different dogs have different reactions to allergens. Here are the most common reactions to allergies:
- Itchiness
- Swelling of the face, eye region, earflaps etc
- Red, swollen skin
- Diarrhea
- Vomiting
- Sneezing
- Runny nose and eyes
- Constant licking
See any of these symptoms in your pooch? Maybe it’s time to have your buddy checked for allergies.
ALLERGIES IN DOGS
There are a variety of allergies among dog breeds, ranging from skin allergies to a cacophony of acute reactions. Both skin allergies and food allergies usually manifest side-by-side.
Often called allergic dermatitis, skin allergies are the most common type of allergies among dog breeds. There are three main culprits for skin allergies in dogs, namely fleas, food and environmental allergens.
Many dogs have allergic reactions to fleabites, and these may cause irritation and itchiness, even reddening and scabbing in affected regions. Likewise, skin allergies caused by food also produce itchy spots, and are usually accompanied by gastrointestinal pain.
Environmental allergens like dust, grass, molds and pollen can cause swelling in their skin, leading to itchiness and redness around their wrists, ankles, groin area, around the eyes and in between their toes.
FIGHTING FOOD ALLERGIES
Most food allergies are linked to hypersensitivity or intolerance for certain ingredients in their dog food, like meats, certain kinds of vegetables, and oils. Though generally not life-threatening, food allergies can still cause both gastrointestinal and dermatologic reactions in your pets.
Look for food options that are richer in isoflavones and are very strong antioxidants, and taurine for better heart health. Consider better food options for your pet that have no ingredients of animal origin, gluten, wheat, corn, artificial preservatives or fillers, especially if they have severe hypersensitivity for these.
Opt for dog formulas like Zen Vegetarian, whose recipe is designed for dogs allergic to certain meats. Formulated with choice vegetable proteins and a combination of vitamins and minerals, it is a holistic, well-balanced and great tasting meal for your sensitive dogs.
AVOIDING ALLERGIES
It’s important that pet owners can distinguish food allergies from food sensitivities, so you’ll now how to help your pets to fight their allergies. A visit to the veterinarian will help you find out more about your pet’s hypersensitivity to certain foods.
After figuring out your pet’s dietary needs, give your fur-buddy the best pet food in the market to ensure they get the most out of every bite. Look for a label like Addiction Foods, whose complete range of cutting-edge options provides the most advanced hypoallergenic nutrition for dogs.
Always remember that your pooches deserve only the best dog food, made from hypoallergenic premium proteins that contain no , fillers or preservatives, to prevent allergies and to promote wellness and long-term health in your pets.
As pet owners, you don’t need to go very far to find the best hypoallergenic pet food for your dogs. At Addiction Foods, we go to the ends of the earth to do that for you and your pets.
Find out why Zen Vegetarian is great for your dog’s hypersensitivity.
Discover Addiction Foods’ wide range of premium dog food.
