Food Intolerance

Many people confuse the term "allergy" with "intolerance". These are two different problems and can result in different symptoms. A food intolerance results in vomiting or diarrhoea as the dog is unable to digest a certain food group. An allergy can result in more severe symptoms, such as itching, ear infections, vomiting, diarrhoea and hair loss.

If your pet is suffering with a food intolerance or allergy, try looking for a food which have as least protein sources as possible. In general, it is the protein source which is likely to cause the problem. However, just because it says Hypoallergenic on the bag, does not necessarily mean that it will be suitable. Many common food irritants include Beef, Chicken, Wheat, Soya, Dairy. However, there are many more that may cause an issue. The most frequently used method of treating is to trial an exclusion diet. This is when the dog is placed on a certain food for a few weeks. Gradually, different food groups are introduced again to see if the dog reacts. If it does, you will know which protein source to avoid in the future. This can be a long process and does require patience on your part but it will be worth it in the end.

It is difficult to simply guess what food group your dog is intolerant to so it is best not to even try! Just because your next door neighbours dog is intolerant to wheat and displaying the same symptoms, doesn't mean that your dog is intolerant to wheat. Always treat your dog as an individual and seek advice from your vet or other reliable source.

Some of the symptoms mentioned above can also be displayed through an environmental allergen i.e. certain pollens or grass have been known to cause numerous problems with itchy skin, which can lead the dog to self trauma.

There are allergy tests which can be used to test for the environmental allergen culprit. If this is successful, then vaccines can be used on a regular basis to curb the symptoms which accompany the allergy!

Intolerances or allergies can be a frustrating problem and very difficult to treat.