Dogs with Allergies
It may surprise you to learn that dogs often suffer from allergies. Symptoms can include skin diseases, dry skin, fur loss, patchy fur, coughing, sneezing, wheezing, nasal or eye discharge, itching, sores, bumps under the fur, sore paws, vomiting and diarrhea.
If your dog has any of these symptoms, she may be allergic to fleas, inhalants, bacteria, foods or something she is coming in contact with. The good news is, your dog can be tested for allergies by your veterinarian or veterinary specialist. If you suspect your dog has a food allergy, you will want to evaluate what you are feeding him and make some changes immediately.
Standard store-bought dog foods today are full of artificial ingredients, fillers, sugar and more. It is no wonder so many dogs react to products found off the grocery store shelf. In addition to reactions to fillers, your dog may also be reacting to beef, wheat, corn, dairy, rice or chicken.
Your veterinarian can recommend a prescription hypo-allergenic food, although these can be fairly pricey. You can easily experiment on your own to find just the right food for your dog. Our sister site www.strongpets.com highly recommends Flint River Ranch as a healthy alternative to store-bought food. Selections include a lamb/millet/rice blend (good for dogs with chicken, wheat or corn allergies) and a trout and potatoes blend as well.
No matter which specialty dog food you choose, be sure it does not contain chemicals, preservatives, dyes and fillers. Remember, it can take up to two weeks before you see benefits from a new food. You may be spending a bit more than store-bought, but it is worth it to keep your dog healthy and symptom free!
Many dogs will suffer from allergies and the owners will never even know, thats why we always need to watch our pets for changes in behaviour,coat condition and even sleep patterns can all be signs allergies are present