If your pup suffers from chronic itchy skin, ear infections, digestive issues, or other allergic symptoms, they may have a food intolerance or allergy. The experts at Nextrition say that switching to a hypoallergenic dog food with limited, novel ingredients can provide much-needed relief and help pinpoint which specific foods are triggering reactions.
What is a Hypoallergenic Diet?
A hypoallergenic diet for dogs contains uncommon protein and carbohydrate sources that your dog has never eaten before and is unlikely to have sensitivities to. These “novel” ingredients are far less likely to cause allergic flare-ups compared to more common foods.
Examples of novel proteins used in hypoallergenic dog food include venison, duck, rabbit, kangaroo, salmon, or peas. Novel carbs may be sweet potatoes, oats, or quinoa instead of wheat, corn, or soy. The idea is to remove all potentially problematic ingredients and start with a clean slate.
Signs of Food Allergies
While a variety of issues can cause itchy, irritated skin and other allergic symptoms in dogs, food intolerances are a leading culprit. Signs your pup may need a hypoallergenic diet include:
- Itchy, irritated skin and excessive scratching/licking.
- Chronic gas, diarrhea, or vomiting.
- Chronic ear infections.
- Paw licking and chewing.
- Hives or facial swelling.
Common Food Allergens
The most frequent food allergens for dogs tend to be proteins like:
- Beef.
- Dairy Products.
- Chicken.
- Wheat.
- Lamb.
- Soy.
- Corn.
- Egg.
While any ingredient can potentially trigger a reaction, these are some of the most problematic foods to avoid when feeding a hypoallergenic diet.
Types of Hypoallergenic Pet Foods
There are a few different forms of hypoallergenic dog food available:
- Limited Ingredient: Contains just a handful of novel protein and carb sources with no fillers, artificial additives, or common allergens.
- Hydrolyzed Protein: Proteins are broken down into smaller sizes that are less likely to cause allergic reactions.
- Prescription: Formulated for severe allergies under veterinary supervision. Often hydrolyzed or elemental amino acid-based proteins with no whole proteins.
- Homemade: Cooked with a limited number of novel ingredients at home following vet recipes for balanced nutrition.
How to Start a Hypoallergenic Diet
When transitioning to a new hypoallergenic dog food diet, go slowly over 5-7 days to avoid digestive upset. Mix a small amount of the new food into your pup’s old kibble, gradually increasing the ratio until they have made a complete switch.
Stick to the same novel protein source for at least 8-12 weeks before considering another if allergies persist. This allows time for the body to adjust and allergic symptoms to resolve on the new diet if it is effective.
It is also crucial during an elimination diet trial to avoid giving any other treats, chews, supplements, or flavored medications that could contain problematic ingredients and trigger reactions.
Signs the Diet is Working
Once your dog’s system has had time to adjust to their new hypoallergenic food, you should hopefully start noticing improvements in symptoms like:
- Less itchiness, scratching and skin irritation.
- More solid, regular bowel movements.
- Fewer ear infections.
- More energy and improved appetite.
Be Patient and Persistent
Do not get discouraged if you don’t see dramatic improvements right away on the first hypoallergenic formula you try. It can take several weeks to fully resolve allergic symptoms, and you may need to do an elimination trial with a different novel protein source.
Conclusion
While not a quick fix, a high-quality, restricted hypoallergenic diet is often the best long-term solution for managing moderate to severe pet food allergies and intolerances. With commitment and careful monitoring, you can get your pup’s allergic issues under control and get back to their healthiest, most comfortable self.