Expert Reveals Canine Diet Options For Dogs With Allergies

Online, March 29, 2011 (Newswire.com) - Your dog consumes a variety of foods of which the immune system may attack. Inflammation occurs, targeting the GI tract and other organ systems, but it is the skin that most often suffers. Putting your dog on a hypoallergenic dog diet will bring him great comfort, a healthier body, skin and coat.

The classic food allergy signs affecting your dog are itching, chewing and ear infections. The food allergy is one of the itchiest conditions that your dog will experience. Most dog foods contain mostly fillers, processed food proteins, colorings and other ingredients that have to then be processed through his body. If the immune system cannot recognize what goes in the body, it attacks those foods, causes inflammation in the GI tract and other digestive organs and then the adverse affects are felt through the allergic symptoms your dog experiences.

There are three proven diet plans very beneficial to the health of your dog. The newest type of hypoallergenic diet is the hydrolyzed protein diet. This diet is available from your veterinarian. The manufacturer of the diet altered the dietary protein molecules to make them so small that they cannot create an allergic reaction in your dog's immune system.

The elimination diet consists of feeding your dog a new protein and carbohydrate that he has never eaten before. Good sources of protein can be venison, fish, rabbit or duck. Carbohydrate choices may be sweet potatoes or oats. Feed absolutely no treats during this period as there could be ingredients in those treats that can cause an allergic reaction in your dog. Many pet parents prefer an all-natural or organic diet and dog treats. These types of products do not contain any fillers or chemicals.

Another diet option, which you can control completely, is a homemade diet. Work closely with your veterinarian for his recommendations of the types of foods to include in the diet such as hypoallergenic proteins and carbohydrates, along with vegetables, vitamins and minerals. Your veterinarian may suggest trying one of the hypoallergenic commercial diets which are specially formulated for those specific needs, resorting to a home diet if all else fails. With complete supervision by your veterinarian, you may also choose a raw diet consisting of raw meats, bones and organs.

Some of the main culprits that attack human and dog alike are very similar. Certain foods that are common in causing allergies are corn, wheat, chicken, most grains and fillers that seem to aggravate the immune system over time, targeting the GI tract. It is imperative that you provide your dog a good hypoallergenic dog diet and eliminate any other foods when on this diet.

Hypoallergenic dog foods contain a limited amount of ingredients in order to lessen any allergic reactions. With fewer ingredients, it is easier to pinpoint if your dog is allergic to anything in that food. Many dogs are allergic to certain types of carbohydrates as well. Some hypoallergenic dog foods contain certain types of starches that are safe for dogs since they have no history of allergic reactions. Speak with your own veterinarian for his advice on a proper hypoallergenic dog diet to fit your dog's particular needs. Just remember, while your dog is on this special diet, do not offer anything else at all to him.

Allergies can make people and pets alike absolutely miserable. It is definitely worth trying these tips if it will possibly help your dog from being distressed.

Source: http://www.examiner.com/chihuahua-in-rockford/canine-diet-options-for-the-chihuahua-with-allergies

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