8 Most Common Dog Food Allergy Symptoms

Do you think your furry family member might have a food allergy? Just like people, dogs can have an allergic reaction to certain protein sources or ingredients.

According to VCA Animal Hospital, food allergies are some of the most common allergies or hypersensitivities known to affect dogs. 

When a dog has a food allergy, their immune system overreacts and produces antibodies to substances that it would normally tolerate. Many dogs also have food intolerances, which may not cause an immune response but can still be uncomfortable.

No matter if your dog has a true allergy or a food intolerance, you want to make sure it’s not included in their diet. Read on to learn more about common symptoms of food allergies in dogs so you can choose the best diet for your pup’s needs.

Common Food Allergy Symptoms in Dogs

It’s not always easy to tell if your furry friend has a food allergy. Some symptoms of a dog food allergy are more obvious, like vomiting, while others you may not even realize have to do with their diet.

Here are a handful of common dog food allergy symptoms to be on the lookout for.

Chronic Ear Infections

You might be surprised to learn that chronic ear infections are a major dog food allergy symptom. Dogs Naturally Magazine explains that stinky, yeasty ears with black or brown build-up, persistent head-shaking, and scratching at the irritated ear are all common symptoms.

If your pup gets more than two ear infections a year and you can rule out ear mites and water, it could be food allergies.

Gastrointestinal Issues

This likely comes as no surprise, but an upset stomach is another telltale sign of a food allergy or sensitivity. If your dog vomits or has diarrhea after eating, it could be caused by a food allergen.

Itchy Skin

Your dog’s diet and skin problems are closely related. Things to watch out for in diet-related allergies are itching and scratching, hair loss, and chewing or licking paws. Often, the itchy skin appears red and inflamed (and is only made worse by your pup’s persistent scratching).

Of course, itchy skin can also be caused by an environmental allergy or something like fleas. To determine if your dog is itchy due to a food allergy, you can try the elimination diet or rule out other factors.

Facial Swelling

Another common (and often scary) dog food allergy symptom is swelling of the face, ears, lips, eyelids, or earflaps. This often indicates a true allergy because it's an immune response.

Your dog may also be experiencing facial swelling due to environmental factors like a bug bite, bee sting, or pollen. However, if you notice this happening after they eat, it’s likely a food allergy.

Constant Licking

Obsessive licking can mean your pup is uncomfortable due to their diet. Dogs often lick at their paws when they’re itchy, so this symptom is frequently accompanied by obsessive itching, as well.

They may also be licking their lips more because an allergic reaction can cause their lips and mouth to be itchy.

Lethargy

Think about how uncomfortable you are when you eat something that doesn’t sit well in your stomach. A common, but easily overlooked, dog food allergy symptom is lethargy. If your pup has a sensitivity or allergy, it may make them feel bloated and tired.

If you notice your dog is not their usual perky self after mealtime or eating a treat, it could be because they’re allergic to one or more of the ingredients.

Sneezing

A lesser-known symptom of a dog food allergy is sneezing. While it’s true that food allergies often affect a dog’s gastrointestinal system and skin, they can also take a toll on their respiratory system.

If the sneezing is accompanied by red, itchy eyes, it could be a food-related allergy.

Hives

The experts at Merck explain that while hives are relatively uncommon in dogs, they can occur due to insect bites or an allergic reaction to shampoos, medications, or food. A dog with hives may have swollen skin that appears red or have raised tufts of hair.

Hives can appear and disappear quickly and can be treated by a veterinarian with an antihistamine.

Raw Food For Dogs With Food Allergies

If you’ve recently found out your dog has food allergies, it can be difficult to navigate the world of pet food. Many commercial kibble brands use common allergens such as gluten and soy.

At We Feed Raw, our nutritious, balanced raw meals are high in protein and fat and low in carbohydrates. They are naturally anti-inflammatory to support your dog's immune system and are great for dogs with allergies.

Get started with feeding your furry friend an allergy-friendly diet from We Feed Raw today.