Though food sensitivities may be common in dogs, actual food allergies are rather rare. According to recent studies, only 0.2% of dogs suffer from actual allergies, in which the immune system is incorrectly triggered by the consumption of certain foods. Food allergies in dogs can be triggered by various foods such as eggs, soy, wheat, spices, preservatives, and even certain medications. It’s important to only give your furry friend vet-approved dog foods and treats, especially if they have allergies. Here are some general signs and symptoms that could indicate a food allergy:
1. Hives
Hives usually appear as raised, red bumps, ranging from 1 to 20 cm in diameter. They usually occur due to an immune system response to an allergen, often starting on the part of the body exposed to the allergen (i.e., around the mouth or muzzle). However, hives can also show up on, or spread to, the legs or back haunches, underbelly, and tail area. While the hives themselves are not dangerous—just itchy and uncomfortable—they may indicate a more serious allergy. Hives can also recur from time to time in dogs who have had a severe reaction to an allergen in their past.
2. Hot spots
Hot spots develop when a dog chews or bites their skin due to itchiness or hives. Hot spots are wounds that can be deep and can even go down to the muscle. They are often red, moist, and smell bad. These wounds need to be examined by a veterinarian and treated. Left untreated, they could become infected and dangerous for your dog.
3. Hair loss from biting or licking
Hair loss from biting and licking is a telltale sign of food allergies in dogs. This is a form of self-trauma that occurs when your dog feels constantly itchy, such as during an allergic reaction, causing them to bite or lick themselves to find relief, eventually rubbing away the hair in that area. This issue often occurs on the belly or inner legs. Hair loss from this behavior can happen without a reaction (i.e. anxiety), but it is more likely when an allergy is present.
4. Appetite changes
A variety of different factors can cause appetite loss in dogs. Dogs with food allergies usually show appetite loss due to digestive upset, vomiting, or anaphylactic shock, which may cause hives, difficulty breathing, low blood pressure, and even seizures.
5. Weight changes
Weight gain or weight loss is not a typical sign of food allergies in dogs. However, when a food allergy is present, dogs may lose weight because they are regularly vomiting or having diarrhea and, as a result, not putting on any weight despite eating as much as they usually would.
6. Stomach upset
Stomach upset is often an early warning sign in dogs who have food allergies or sensitivities. A dog with a food allergy may vomit frequently because they have difficulty digesting the allergen.
Seek veterinary help as soon as possible if you witness any of these issues with your dog’s health. Even if your dog does not have an allergy, these symptoms can be warning signs for a variety of serious problems that may require treatment.
