Does my dog have allergies?

Dog Allergies

Is your dog suffering from a food or skin allergy? How can you tell if allergies are affecting your dog? If your dog is uncomfortable and chronically troubled and you suspect allergies, it’s best to get to the bottom of the problem as soon as you can.

Grains are Part of a Complete and Balanced Diet for Dogs

When you look at the research, the evidence stacks up that grains are nutritious and effective for your dog.

Possible Food Allergens

Your dog may be allergic to his food, although it takes time to make that diagnosis. Usually, a veterinarian will put a dog on a food elimination diet to determine if he has a food allergy. That means the dog spends eight to ten weeks on a special hypoallergenic diet. If his clinical signs improve on the hypoallergenic diet, he is then challenged with his original diet. If the dog is truly allergic to his food, there will likely be an increase in clinical signs, such as itching and inflamed skin. If these appear, further testing will be needed to determine which specific ingredients trigger the allergy symptoms.

Skin Allergies

It has been estimated that up to 15 percent of dogs suffer from skin allergies, also known as allergic dermatitis. Allergic reactions often lead to skin inflammation, and the most common sign of allergies is scratching. Signs generally occur seasonally, but can extend throughout the year. Environmental contaminants, such as dust and mold, can cause allergies in a dog.

Finding the Right Food for Your Dog’s Allergies

Purina offers food to suit any type of allergy a dog may have.

Your veterinarian can help diagnose and determine the best treatment for your dog’s allergies. Schedule a visit to determine the cause of your dog’s discomfort.