Signs and Symptoms of a Dog With Food Allergies and Skin Irritation

Your furry friend is miserable; he's constantly scratching himself and looks annoyed. You feel helpless; you want to relieve him from his pain and suffering. Chances are your dog may be suffering from food allergies; food sensitivity can affect any breed at any time. If your dog's allergies are severe, immediately take him to a veterinarian for a diagnosis and treatment.


The most common culprits of canine food sensitivities are corn, soy, wheat, dairy, oats, beef, lamb or other meats. Your dog may remain free of allergy symptoms while eating any of these foods; however, in time, it could develop an allergic reaction. Food allergies generally may not cause fatalities in dogs; however, your dog's life will not be a happy one, until you help it rid itself of these allergies.

  1. Allergic Skin Irritation

    • According to Pet MD, a dog reacts to food allergies with signs of skin irritation; the characteristic symptoms consist of itchiness, flaky skin or hives. This condition can produce skin discoloration, hair loss, hot spots, a dull coat, excessive shedding, poor coat texture, dandruff, oozing bald patches, lesions, dry skin and a skin rash. Food allergies can manifest themselves by causing a dog's skin to have severe itchiness, unrelated to seasonal itchiness; symptoms may include itchiness in the underarms, groin, belly and anus. As a result of the itchiness, your dog may frequently lick, chew or bite its paws or limbs.

    Head, Face and Behavioral Problems

    • According to The Dog Health Guide, a dog afflicted with food allergies may constantly wipe its head with its paws. Closely observe your dog to see if it exhibits any signs of discomfort, unusual behavior, aggression, hyper activity, chronic ear infections, red and swollen ears, infected lesions around the head, repetitive stretching, shaking its head, constantly scratching its head, rubbing its face on anything, watery eyes or seizures.

    Respiratory Problems

    • According to the The American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (ASPCA), a dog afflicted with canine food allergies may snore. There are various symptoms to look for if your dog is suffering from respiratory problems caused by food allergies; clinical signs can include a runny nose, asthma-like symptoms, coughing or sneezing.

    Digestive Problems

    • Canine food allergies can cause gastrointestinal problems in a dog, with various clinical symptoms that can consist of vomiting, diarrhea, pain, irritability, more than three bowel movements per day, an upset stomach and gas. If this is the case, be sure to take notes of your observations, and share them with your veterinarian.