Table of Content:
THE BAD NEWS
As many as 40% of dogs suffer from allergies. The two most common are food allergies and environmental allergies.
THE GOOD NEWS
Almost all of cases can be fixed! So, let's get into it.
FOOD ALLERGIES
Food allergies in dogs are caused by abnormal immune responses to certain proteins found in the food they consume. The immune system mistakenly identifies these proteins as harmful substances, triggering an allergic reaction. The main causes for food allergies in dogs include:
Protein Sources: The most common allergens in dog food are proteins from specific sources, such as beef, chicken, lamb, fish, eggs, and dairy products.
Repeated Exposure: Dogs can develop allergies to a particular protein if they are repeatedly exposed to it in their diet. This can sensitize the immune system and lead to an allergic reaction over time.
Leaky Gut Syndrome: Some dogs with "leaky gut syndrome" have a compromised intestinal barrier, which allows larger undigested protein molecules to enter the bloodstream. This can trigger an immune response and contribute to the development of food allergies. Existing health conditions, such as inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) or other gastrointestinal problems, may be more susceptible to developing food allergies.
Additives and Fillers: Food allergies may also be triggered by certain additives, fillers, or preservatives used in dog foods rather than the primary protein source itself.
ENVIRONMENTAL ALLERGIES
Contact allergies in dogs is a condition that results in inflammation from contact with allergens or substances that damage or irritate the skin. Some breeds have genetic predispositions and dogs with weakened immune systems are more likely to be afflicted.
Your dog’s skin and coat are its main line of defense so for environmental allergies so it's important the coat and skin are healthy. For it to be healthy, it requires proteins, minerals, and healthy fats from the diet to remain healthy, well-nourished, and fully functional. Unfortunately for many dogs as the statistics show, this is not the case. Poor nutrition equals poor health and immunity which means environmental allergens can penetrate the weakened barrier of your dog.
WHAT TO DO
If your dog is experiencing allergy symptoms, we recommend the following:
.Change up the food.
- If the food your feeding contains a mix of proteins stop and start feeding single proteins in rotation.
- Feeding clean proteins that you know are preservative free.
- Feed raged, or grass fed produce.
- Feed green tripe.
- Fast once a week.
Allergies can be awfully frustrating and complex. We have amazing success with allergies, and we love to help. We need the background, and each case is different so call us or email raw@rogueroyalty.com.au.