Dog Skin Problems

Dogs do not have the same hypersensitivity symptoms individuals do. A dog's reaction to an allergy often comes in the form of dog skin irritations, such as excessive itching and biting as well as developing a poor quality coat of fur. Anal itching and chronic ear infections can also be signs and are something most pet owners don't think of as being allergy related.

While dog skin problems and sensitivity can be caused by many things, allergic reactions to food are very common. Food sensitivity may take years for signs to develop, even if you have been feeding your dog the same food.

Once dog skin problems or other allergy symptoms do commence appearing, it's a good idea to check your pet's diet first. You do this by simply taking away their regular food for several days and giving them a diet that consists of protein and starch. A good diet to try is lamb or rabbit mixed with rice. Do not give them anything else during this test period.

When the signs improve, go back to giving your dog its regular meal and take notes. If the dog skin problems or other characteristics return, you know it's something in their food.

Next you return to the test diet above, but start adding one new ingredient each week. For example try chicken one week, beef the next, wheat, then corn. If symptoms get better, for example with beef, you know that beef is not the cause of the allergies. If they get worse, then there is a good chance that you've uncovered the culprit.

Even if you find that your animal is allergic to one ingredient, it's important to continue this process with all parts because your dog could be allergic to more than one thing.

Once you uncover what your dog is allergic to, you can start to look for commercial foods that do not contain those elements. Some of the best alternatives with brand name dog food are foods that are made with lamb and rice. Both lamb and rice are considered hypoallergenic (as long as it does not incorporate wheat or corn.).

Do not regulate yourself to just commercial pet food. Many pet owners have used a raw food diet with vast success for treating dog allergies. This natural type of diet consists of raw meat, raw bones and raw vegetables. You can find out more information about the raw food diet for dogs by doing a quick search on the internet. (If your dog is already on a raw food diet, you should still use the test diet outlined above and alter ingredients.).

Dog skin problems, sensitivity and food all boil down to one basic fact. Your dog's diet is the basis of a long, comfortable and happy life. You need to get the best dog diet material available and take a proactive stance so your pet does not have to needlessly suffer.