Food allergy in dogs is an exaggerated response of the immune system to certain invading agents present in dog food and other foods. Animals, like humans, can become allergic to many types of foods, including those that have been part of everyday consumption for years. Generally, the most common factors that generate allergy in dogs are the followingpresence of colorants in the feed and the size of the processed protein. Learn more about the subject and the explanation of veterinarian Marcela Machado, who works in the public animal health system.

Allergy in dogs: what are the main causes?

Most dogs usually have allergic reactions to more than one food. "The body looks at the dye and/or protein with a 'magnifying glass', as if it were something harmful to the body. Then, the immune system produces a series of cells that will cause all the symptoms of the allergy, usually seen on the skin and in the digestive system ", reports the veterinarian.

How to identify a dog with allergies?

It's good to always keep an eye on your dog's skin. Watch for bald patches, bruises that have appeared for no reason and persistent itching. "Itchy skin, bald patches, redness, hives, swelling and itching on the inside of the ears are some of the most common signs of food allergies in dogs," says veterinarian Marcela Machado.

Also check if the animal's stools are firm or shapeless. If the dog is dewormed correctly and still has diarrhea, the problem may be indicative of a food allergy. "A dog with an allergic reaction may have chronic diarrhea. When noticing intestinal disarray, guardians should seek out their trusted veterinarian to treat the animal correctly and,thus preventing their health from becoming even more debilitated", recommends the professional.

What to do when identifying a possible food allergy in dogs?

After identifying one or more symptoms of food allergy in your dog, it is recommended that you do not wait for the condition to worsen and take your pet to a veterinary clinic. "Only the animal health professional will be able to identify what is causing the allergy in the dog through clinical and laboratory tests", says Marcela.

At the appointment, it is important that you report some information, such as your dog's eating habits in the smallest detail. Write down the name of the food, the snacks and foods you usually offer him. Do not lie or omit anything to the veterinarian. Even if you have given some food that is not recommended, you must inform the professional of this so that he can make the diagnosiscorrectly and treat your pet as it needs.