Persistent itching, recurring ear infections, chronic digestive issues: these symptoms often point to an underlying allergy, a condition increasingly diagnosed in dogs.
Distinguishing food allergy from environmental allergy
Food allergy
A reaction to a specific protein in the diet (beef, chicken, wheat and dairy are the most commonly involved). Often shows up as digestive upset combined with itching.
Environmental allergy (atopy)
A reaction to dust mites, pollen or mould, usually seasonal or tied to the living environment, showing up mainly as skin itching without any associated digestive trouble.
Signs to watch for
- Excessive scratching and licking, especially on the paws, belly and ears
- Recurring ear infections despite regular care
- Skin redness, localized hair loss
- Chronic digestive issues (recurring soft stools, excessive flatulence)
Diagnosis: a process that demands rigor
Contrary to popular belief, there is no quick, 100% reliable test for identifying a food allergy. Diagnosis generally relies on a strict elimination diet (feeding a single protein source new to the dog) over several weeks, under veterinary supervision.
Day-to-day management
- Tailored diet: hypoallergenic or single-protein rations depending on the diagnosis established
- Specific skin care for atopy, sometimes combined with targeted medication
- Extra ear care, since allergic dogs are particularly prone to ear infections
A particular issue for the active dog
A sporting or working dog with an undiagnosed allergy can have its performance affected by chronic discomfort that's hard to spot from the outside — itching and chronic digestive discomfort often disrupt sleep and recovery, with an indirect but very real impact on performance.