As with humans, some dogs are prone to allergic reactions. These can occur when coming into contact with certain food ingredients or elements in nature. Most wheat allergies are a result of ingesting food made with a wheat-base. In dogs with sensitive skin, contact allergies that occur when the skin touches an object and reacts negatively are possible with wheat, but are much less common than food allergies. Finding out what triggers your dog's allergies will make life easier and more pleasant for you and your four-legged friend.
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Symptoms
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Because animals cannot communicate verbally, it is imperative a dog owner pays careful attention to a dog's physical responses and changing habits. A dog who shows signs of itchy skin, such as scratching constantly, shaking his ears or rubbing his face with his paws or on other objects is demonstrating an allergic reaction, possibly to wheat. Sneezing and wheezing are also common allergy signs. Intestinal symptoms such as diarrhea, gas and vomiting may occur. Seizures are possible, but are less common than the other symptoms.
Diagnosis
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Because allergic reactions are often the same regardless of the source, the only way to determine what is causing your dog discomfort is through medical testing or trial and error. A veterinarian may do a skin scraping or do a blood allergy test to determine what your dog is allergic to.
Treatment for food allergy
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If the allergic reaction to wheat is being prompted by your pet's food, stop feeding the wheat product immediately and switch to a wheat-free, hypo-allergenic food. These are usually corn or meat-based, although some dogs may be allergic to chicken or corn products, as well. Hopefully, your pet will not exhibit reactions to these ingredients. If your dog has had an allergy test done by a veterinarian, have the vet check for other food-based allergies so you will know what food product is best for your pet.
Treatment for Contact Allergy
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If a wheat allergy is caused by the environment, more likely if you live in a rural farming area than the city, your dog will require more intensive treatment. A veterinarian will suggest medications to stop the itching and associated skin conditions, such as hot spots and rashes. These will likely include pills taken orally and regular bathing with a product to soothe the skin. In severe cases, your pet's doctor may recommend allergy injections that must be administered daily.
Time Frame
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Removing the source triggering the wheat allergy may result in an immediate reduction of symptoms but not always. In some cases, an exclusion diet of raw foods may be fed to your dog for a few days to clear his system of any remaining allergens before returning to dog food. Check with a veterinarian before beginning your dog on an exclusion program.
For dogs needing prescriptions, it may take a few months and up to a full year before the dog's immune system can combat the wheat allergy.
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