Allergies can be terrible for dogs. It's heartbreaking to see our companions constantly scratching or suffering from an allergic reaction.
We often turn to dog food as the culprit behind our dogs' reactions, but it's not always easy to pinpoint the exact cause.
That's why in this blog post, we'll explore one of the most common triggers for canine allergies – protein – and delve into finding the best protein sources for dogs with allergies.
What are protein allergies?
Protein intolerance is caused by your dog's inability to digest or effectively break down amino acids.
Dogs can be born with allergies or develop them over time. Protein and food allergies typically develop overtime.
Food allergies in particular, can be especially tricky since they are rare and can make life difficult for pet owners searching for solutions to help their dogs.
Nonetheless, there are plenty of ways to alleviate these problems, especially if you know how to properly identify the symptoms.
Seasonal allergy symptoms usually flare up in the spring and summer months, but if your dog exhibits symptoms year-round, it could be a sign that they’re allergic to animal protein in their food.
Find the best protein through an elimination diet
Many dog owners may not realize that their furry friend could be suffering from a food allergy.
The most common proteins that dogs are allergic to are beef, chicken, lamb, and wheat.
However, there are also less common culprits, including soy, eggs, corn, and nuts.
Unfortunately, unlike humans, dogs cannot be tested for food allergies in a conventional manner.
To determine the cause of your dog's discomfort, you'll need to perform an elimination diet trial, which involves eliminating all potential allergens from their diet for a few months.
Elimination diet
It's important to take the time to understand and properly follow an elimination diet trial.
This process takes approximately 2-3 months to complete, as it's necessary for the old proteins to leave your dog's system and for any changes to take effect.
One of the most common mistakes pet parents make is not waiting long enough before giving up on the diet trial.
5 Best novel proteins for dogs with allergies
Novel proteins are proteins that your dog hasn't been introduced to before, such as duck, fish, venison, and kangaroo.
By incorporating these novel proteins into their diet, you can significantly reduce the risk of allergic reactions.
1. Turkey
If you're looking for a new protein source to add to your dog's diet, consider giving turkey a try.
Not only is it delicious, but it also boasts numerous health benefits that make it an excellent choice for your next meal.
Turkey is packed with essential nutrients such as lean protein, vitamins B3 and B6, and minerals like selenium, potassium, and zinc.
2. Lamb
For dogs with food sensitivities or allergies, lamb is an excellent alternative to more common proteins like chicken or beef.
Not only is lamb a novel protein, but it also contains many natural health benefits.
For example, it is a great source of essential amino acids, which are important for maintaining strong muscles and a healthy coat.
Lamb is also rich in vitamin B12, zinc, and iron, which can support immune function and help prevent anemia.
3. Fish
Not only is fish a great source of lean protein, but it is also chock-full of essential vitamins and minerals, omega-3 fatty acids, and antioxidants that can help improve everything from skin and coat health to joint mobility and cognitive function.
4. Rabbit
Rabbit meat contains high levels of B vitamins, which are crucial for healthy skin, coat, and immune system function.
Additionally, rabbit meat is a great source of iron and phosphorus, both essential minerals that support dogs' overall bodily function.
5. Venison (deer)
Venison is a unique and high-quality protein source for dogs that is often overlooked.
Not only is it a novel protein, but it also offers a plethora of natural health benefits for your dog.
Venison is lean, meaning it is low in fat and high in protein, making it ideal for dogs with weight management or grain allergies.
Additionally, venison contains a variety of essential nutrients such as zinc, iron, and vitamin B12, all of which contribute to a healthy and balanced diet.
