A food allergy can cause various symptoms in dogs. Some symptoms are immediately visible, while others develop gradually. Because these signs can also occur with other conditions, it is not always easy to recognize a food allergy right away.
Recognizing the symptoms is often the first step toward finding a suitable dietary approach for your dog.
What is a food allergy?
In a food allergy, the immune system reacts to a specific ingredient in the food. The body sees this ingredient as a threat and triggers a reaction that can lead to various symptoms.
Although many people think grains are the most common cause, animal proteins are more often involved in food allergies.
Itching in dogs
Itching is one of the most common symptoms of a food allergy. Dogs may constantly scratch, bite, or rub against furniture and other surfaces because of it.
The itching often occurs on:
- The paws.
- The belly.
- The armpits.
- The groin.
- The face.
- The ears.
Persistent itching can eventually lead to skin damage.
Excessive licking of the paws
Many dogs with a food allergy frequently lick or bite their paws. Continuous licking can irritate the paw pads and the skin between the toes.
In some cases, saliva causes discoloration of the fur around the paws.
Red or irritated skin
A food allergy can cause skin irritation. The skin may become red, feel warm, or be more sensitive than usual.
This irritation often occurs in areas with little fur, such as:
- The belly.
- The armpits.
- The groin.
- The inside of the ears.
Recurring ear problems
Ear infections or irritated ears are commonly seen in dogs with food allergies. Some dogs suffer from the same issues multiple times a year.
Possible signs include:
- Shaking the head.
- Scratching the ears.
- Redness.
- An unpleasant odor from the ear.
- Excessive earwax production.
When ear problems keep recurring, diet may be one of the factors investigated.
Hotspots and skin infections
Scratching, licking, and biting can damage the skin. This can lead to hotspots: painful, moist areas that often grow quickly.
Hotspots usually require extra attention because damaged skin is more susceptible to infections.
Diarrhea and soft stools
Not all food allergies manifest through the skin. Some dogs mainly develop digestive complaints.
Common symptoms include:
- Diarrhea.
- Soft stools.
- Changed bowel habits.
- More frequent bowel movements.
If these symptoms persist for a long time, it may be worthwhile to review the diet.
Vomiting and nausea
In some dogs, a food allergy or sensitivity can be accompanied by nausea or vomiting. This does not have to occur daily and may be intermittent.
Because vomiting has many possible causes, it is important to assess the full range of symptoms.
Flatulence and digestive issues
Excessive gas can be a sign that certain ingredients are not well tolerated. When this occurs regularly along with other symptoms, diet may play a role.
A rumbling stomach or sensitive digestion are also sometimes reported in dogs with food-related complaints.
Can symptoms be present all year round?
Yes. An important difference between food allergies and some environmental allergies is that food allergies often cause symptoms throughout the year.
When symptoms are constantly present and not clearly linked to a season, diet is often considered in the investigation of the cause.
When is further investigation advisable?
When symptoms recur regularly or persist for a long time, it may be wise to work with a veterinarian to determine the cause.
Because the symptoms of a food allergy can closely resemble other conditions, multiple possible causes are often considered before a diagnosis is made.
In some cases, an elimination diet may be used to investigate whether diet plays a role in the symptoms.
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