When a dog scratches year-round, it is common to blame chicken, grains or a particular treat. Food allergy is possible, but environmental allergy, fleas, mites and skin infections are other frequent explanations. A food label or a single blood test cannot reliably tell you which ingredient is responsible for an itchy dog’s symptoms.
What does a food reaction look like?
Some dogs with adverse food reactions have itching around the face, feet or ears, recurring ear problems or gastrointestinal signs. These are not unique to food allergy. The veterinarian may first address parasites and infection while reviewing the history of symptoms, food and treats.
The purpose of an elimination diet trial
A carefully chosen veterinary diet using a hydrolyzed protein or a suitable novel protein may be used for a strict period under clinical guidance. During the trial, other foods, flavored medications, treats and chews can undermine the result. The veterinarian decides how long the trial should run and when to challenge with a previous food to determine whether signs truly relate to the diet.
Why changing brands repeatedly is unreliable
Switching to an over-the-counter “limited ingredient” food every few weeks may not isolate the cause, and commercial diets can vary in production controls. Likewise, grain-free is not synonymous with allergy-safe. Unnecessary restrictions can make nutrition difficult and expensive without helping the dog.
Keep the skin comfortable during testing
Your dog may still need treatment for painful ears, infection or severe itching. Ask the clinic what medicines can continue during a diet trial and how improvement will be measured. Do not remove essential nutrients from a growing puppy’s diet without expert guidance.
See other causes of itchy skin and planning a safe elimination diet.
Reference
Merck Veterinary Manual: Atopic Dermatitis in Dogs.
This article is for general education and is not a substitute for care from your own veterinarian. Learn about The Pet Vet and our editorial policy.