Many dog owners are assuming, or stating, their dog is allergic to some of the food items they are providing .
Learn about the difference between allergy vs intolerance.
Canine food allergy and food intolerance are two different conditions that can cause similar symptoms in dogs.
A food allergy is an immune-mediated response to a specific protein in the food that the dog's immune system identifies as a threat. This triggers an allergic reaction, which can lead to symptoms such as itching, hives, swelling, gastrointestinal upset, and even anaphylaxis in severe cases. The symptoms usually appear soon after the dog eats the offending food, and the severity of the reaction can vary from mild to life-threatening.
On the other hand, food intolerance is a non-immune response to certain ingredients in the dog's diet. It occurs when the dog's digestive system is unable to properly break down and digest certain ingredients, such as lactose in milk, leading to gastrointestinal symptoms such as vomiting, diarrhea, and flatulence. Unlike food allergies, the symptoms of food intolerance can take longer to appear and may not always be consistent.
To determine whether a dog is experiencing a food allergy or intolerance, it's important to consult with a (HOLISTIC) veterinarian. They may recommend an elimination diet or other diagnostic tests to identify the specific food or ingredient causing the symptoms, and develop a treatment plan accordingly.