Our dogs may be covered in fur and walk on four legs, but we have a lot more in common with them than you might think. Just like us, dogs can have food allergies and suffer from negative reactions like skin issues, itching, or intestinal problems. 

If you suspect that your dog has an intolerance to something in their food or treats, you’ve come to the right place. 

Here are the most common food sensitivities in dogs, signs your four-legged friend might have an allergy, and how you can help them feel better while keeping any further reactions at bay. 

3 of the Most Common Food Sensitivities in Dogs

1. Meat

• Although meat has been a standard dog food ingredient for many years, they are responsible for the majority of canine food allergies. 
• Proteins like beef, chicken, and turkey can easily upset a dog’s sensitive stomach.  When these proteins enter your dog’s body and break down into molecules, the immune system can misidentify them as a potential threat.
• Food allergies like these are developed over time. If you feed your pet the same chicken or beef recipe over and over, their body may have a more difficult time breaking down those proteins.
• Novel proteins such as lamb, rabbit, duck, bison, and elk may be recommended for dogs with food sensitivities as long as they haven’t been exposed to these proteins in the past. 

2. Dairy

Did you know that dogs can also be lactose intolerant? If you suspect that your furry friend has food allergies, it’s best to avoid food and treats containing cheese and milk. 

3. Corn, Soy, Wheat

Time to double-check food labels! Common ingredients like corn, soy, and wheat can cause inflammation in your dog’s body which can lead to allergy-like symptoms. Look for healthy gluten-free grains like brown rice or quinoa instead. 

Symptoms of Food Allergies in Dogs

Signs of food sensitivities in dogs can manifest in both subtle and not-so-subtle ways. These are the most common reactions to look for: 

• Itchy skin and paws
• Hair loss
• Skin rashes and hot spots
• Vomiting
• Diarrhea
• Discharge from eyes
• Hyperactivity
• Weight loss
• Lethargy 

If you notice one or more of these symptoms, set up an appointment with your veterinarian to help relieve your dog of any discomfort, find out what they’re allergic to, and discuss a new diet plan with the doctor. 

How to Help a Dog With Food Sensitivities

When you’ve confirmed that your dog has sensitivities to certain foods, the best thing to do is switch out their everyday meals and treats with more hypoallergenic options. 

There are plenty of options specifically formulated for sensitive stomachs, but you’ll find just as many allergy-safe selections simply by checking the ingredients in your dog’s favorite snacks. 

Plant-based treats are a great choice for nearly any kind of food intolerance in dogs. Not only are they free from allergy-triggering ingredients like meat, cheese, and wheat, but they help reduce your pet’s carbon pawprint by creating fewer carbon emissions and using less water. 

If you’re on the hunt for a plant-based treat your dog won’t be able to get enough of, look no further! At Bright Planet Pet, we create 100% vegan treats without sacrificing the delicious flavors your dogs love. 

Selections like Better Burg’r and Better BBQ Chick’n taste just like their signature flavors but are made with wholesome plant-based ingredients. That way, if you’re transitioning your dog to a more hypoallergenic diet, they won’t even know the difference! 

We’re committed to preserving our beautiful planet for many generations and dogs to come, so we only use sustainable ingredients in our treats. Also, for every bag of treats we sell, our partners at Eden Reforestation Projects will plant one tree. 

When your dog becomes a Bright Planet fanatic, you will feel good about making a difference in their health and helping to preserve the Earth. 

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