Reactions to Food Allergies in Dogs

Like humans, dogs can be allergic to certain foods. A food allergy occurs when a dog's immune system treats food as an intruder and the dog has an adverse reaction. Dogs can develop food allergies at any age, and they may have a variety of reactions.

  1. Common Food Allergies

    • Although dogs can develop allergies to almost any food, there are seven foods that are most likely to trigger allergic reactions. These are soy, wheat, beef, chicken, milk, eggs and corn.

    Skin Irritation

    • Skin Irritation is a common reaction to food allergies in dogs. Dogs that scratch or lick excessively or have red, inflamed skin may be suffering from an allergic reaction.

    Yeast Infections

    • Yeast infections are not a direct reaction to food allergies, but dogs that are having an allergic reaction can develop secondary yeast infections. This causes itchy ears, loss of fur or further skin irritation.

    Vomiting

    • Food allergies can also cause problems in a dog's digestive tract. Vomiting is one symptom of food allergies in dogs.

    Diarrhea

    • Diarrhea is also a possible symptom of food allergies in dogs.

    Respiratory Problems

    • In severe cases, a dog may have difficulty breathing in response to a food allergy.