Food allergies: what they are and how to treat them

Do you know what are the most common causes of allergies in dogs? The first is flea bites and the second is atopic dermatitis. In third place is food. Nowadays, food allergies constitute approximately 10% of all hypersensitivities in dogs.

Food allergies are a common problem in dogs that can cause significant discomfort and affect their quality of life. Dogs can develop sensitivities or adverse reactions to certain foods, triggering a range of symptoms from mild to severe.

The symptoms that characterise this hypersensitivity are very similar to those of atopic dermatitis and have a non-seasonal pruritus as their main symptom. Some of its effects may also be those of an intolerance, e.g. diarrhoea. The reaction to the ingestion of this food, as well as manifesting itself in other parts of the body, also occurs in the digestive tract. For this reason, nausea, vomiting, diarrhoea, etc. may appear, signs that indicate that the dog is rejecting a food it has eaten.

Understanding the causes and appropriate treatments is crucial to ensure the well-being of our pets.

To determine if your dog is suffering from food allergies, it is crucial to take him to the vet. Once the cause of the food allergy has been identified, treatment usually involves removing the problem foods from your dog’s diet and replacing them with hypoallergenic options. That is, feeding the dog a different protein source than the previous food. In this way, if we switch foods and within three months the symptoms have disappeared, we will know that he is allergic to the previous protein.

Picart solutions for dogs with food allergies

Firstly, we produced Picart Select Adult Sensitive Salmon & Rice. A perfect food for treating a possible allergy to the most common proteins. Select Adult Sensitive Salmon & Rice is formulated with 26% high quality salmon, making it an excellent source of easily assimilated protein for dogs with food allergies. It is also guaranteed to be free from beef, soya and wheat.

Secondly, within Picart’s Select DIETS range you will also find Select DIET Hypoallergenic. This food is designed with a formula low in allergenic elements made with few ingredients, rarely used in pet food. Specifically, it is 85% formulated with duck and rice. Therefore, it is a food that only incorporates a single source of animal protein. This minimises the chance of hypersensitivity reactions.

In summary, food allergies can cause significant discomfort in dogs, but with the right diagnosis and a well-managed treatment plan, it is possible to provide relief and improve your beloved pet’s quality of life. Always consult your veterinarian for specific guidance on your dog’s health and well-being.