As a pet owner, your top concern is the overall well-being and happiness of your pet. However, sometimes, threats like allergies can lurk in the background and go unnoticed until your dog starts showing serious symptoms, like fur loss and extensive itching.
Fortunately, there is a lot that you can do to learn to identify dog allergies and protect your dog by improving their diet, creating a safe environment, and switching to premium raw dog food. Letâs dive in!
5 Signs That Your Dog May Be Suffering From Allergies
Being able to recognize that your dog may be suffering from allergies is the first step to help them feel better by changing their diet, lifestyle, or environment. Letâs look at the signs you should be aware of.
Fur Loss
Fur loss in dogs is a common, noticeable sign of allergies. This symptom can be particularly noticeable around the face, legs, and abdomen, and can result from food sensitivities or environmental triggers like pollen.
Itching
Persistent itching in these areas like paws, ears, and belly typically indicates an allergic reaction. Allergens ranging from dietary components to environmental factors like dust mites or mould can trigger an excessive immune system reaction, which can lead to itching, as well as skin reactions.
Sore Or Broken Skin
Noticeable redness and sores on your dog's skin, especially around the neck, ears, and back, may point to allergies. Constant scratching can be due to environmental allergens or irritants in food, and eventually lead to serious skin disorders.
Regular Ear Infections
Your dogâs ears can easily become a breeding ground for bacteria or yeast when the dog's immune system reacts to certain foods or environmental particles.
Loose Stools
Loose stools are a common manifestation of food allergies or intolerances. Ingredients like grains or artificial fillers in commercial dog food can disrupt the digestive system, leading to these symptoms. Thatâs where switching to a raw, natural diet could improve their gut health!
3 Key Causes Of Dog Allergies To Watch Out For
Above, weâve looked at the signs that your dog may be suffering from allergies. But what may be causing the issue? Of course, the first step should always be to visit a specialised vet. However, most allergies are rooted in one or more of the causes below.
Diet
About 1-2% of all dogs suffer from food allergies, and up to 25% of dogs with skin issues are affected by a food allergy. And, unfortunately, the culprit goes unnoticed for too long! Traditional store-bought kibbles often contain conservatives and additives that can start or exacerbate these allergies. These components act as irritants, leading to significant reactions in sensitive dogs. In this scenario, you can significantly improve the life of your pet by switching toward a diet based on premium raw dog food, which offers a natural and balanced alternative devoid of harmful additives.
Environmental Allergens
Environmental allergens like pollen, dust, and mould can be invisible - but non-neglectable -threats for dogs. When inhaled or coming into contact with their skin, these allergens trigger reactions that cause discomfort and health issues, including skin reactions, itching, and digestive issues. Recognizing the signs and minimising exposure can help manage these allergies effectively.
Household Cleaning Products
Many household cleaning products contain chemicals that can irritate a dog's skin and respiratory system, leading to allergic reactions. Using natural or pet-safe cleaners reduces the risk of triggering allergies, creating a safer environment for sensitive dogs.
Alleviate Your Dog Symptoms In An Easy, Natural Way
Transitioning your dog to a raw meat diet could be the game-changer you've been looking for. At Mersey Raw, we've carefully curated raw dog food starter packs to introduce your canine companion to a more natural, wholesome way of eating.
Embrace this shift and just watch your dog enjoy health improvements - from shinier skin to enhanced digestion. Cleaner teeth, healthier gums, and overall happiness are just a starter pack away. Why wait to see your dog thrive? Explore the benefits of a raw diet today!