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Is your dog suffering from seasonal allergies? It's a common problem that can cause discomfort and frustration for dogs and their owners. But what if there was a natural and holistic way to alleviate dog allergies? Enter “Raw Feeding.”
I'll share how raw feeding can help alleviate dog allergies in this article; I'll be using the term “allergies” to cover both allergies (which trigger the immune system) and intolerance (which results in a gastrointestinal response). But first…raw feeding involves feeding dogs a diet that closely mimics what their ancestors would have eaten in the wild. This means feeding them raw, unprocessed foods such as meat, bones, organs, and vegetables.
But how does raw feeding help with allergies?
Raw feeding is a diet devoid of grains, additives, and artificial ingredients commonly found in commercial dog food, which promotes optimal digestion and improves gut health. A healthy gut plays a vital role in maintaining a robust immune system, which can help reduce allergy symptoms.
If your dog suffers from allergies, it might be worth considering transitioning them to a raw food diet. Or, at the very least, adding more fresh food to their current diet.
Understanding Dog Allergies
Dog allergies can manifest in various ways, including itching, scratching, redness, and gastrointestinal issues. Like humans, dogs can be allergic to various substances such as pollen, dust mites, certain foods, and environmental factors. Identifying the specific allergen can be challenging, but regardless of the cause, allergies can significantly impact a dog's quality of life.
Determining the trigger for your dog's allergies can be a challenge. This can be done through an elimination diet if you suspect food is the trigger. Or through sensitivity testing.
- Glacier Peak Holistics covers both food sensitivities and environmental allergies.
- Nutriscan focuses on food sensitivities only.
Sensitivity tests are helpful when we aren't sure where to start in identifying the cause of a dog's allergies. The results can be overwhelming, so I suggest you choose a kit with a consultation to go over the results. In my experience, these tests give us some ideas of what may trigger an immune response, but they're not 100% foolproof.
Benefits of Raw Feeding for Dogs with Allergies
Raw feeding has gained popularity among pet owners seeking a more natural approach to dog nutrition. By providing dogs with a diet that closely mimics what their ancestors would have eaten in the wild, raw feeding can offer several benefits, especially for dogs with allergies.
One of the primary advantages of raw feeding is the elimination of grains, additives, and artificial ingredients commonly found in commercial dog food. These ingredients have been known to trigger allergies in sensitive dogs. By removing them from the diet, raw feeding can promote optimal digestion and improve gut health. A healthy gut plays a vital role in maintaining a robust immune system, which can help reduce allergies.
Raw Feeding's Impact on the Immune System
The immune system plays a crucial role in defending the body against allergens. When a dog's immune system is compromised, it can overreact to harmless substances, leading to allergic reactions. Raw feeding can help support and strengthen the immune system, making it more resilient to allergies.
Raw feeding achieves this by providing dogs with essential nutrients often lacking in commercial dog food. Raw dog food contains high-quality proteins, vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants that are easily digestible and can enhance the immune system's function. Additionally, raw feeding includes beneficial bacteria and enzymes that promote a healthy gut microbiome, further boosting the immune system's ability to ward off allergies.
Common Allergens in Commercial Dog Food
Commercial dog food often contains ingredients that can trigger allergic reactions in dogs. Some common allergens include grains like wheat, corn, and soy and artificial preservatives, flavors, and colors. These ingredients can cause inflammation in the body, leading to allergic symptoms.
Raw feeding eliminates these potential allergens by focusing on a diet primarily consisting of raw, unprocessed foods. By avoiding grains and artificial additives, raw feeding reduces the risk of triggering allergies and promotes overall well-being.
Transitioning a Dog to Raw Feeding
Transitioning a dog from a commercial diet to raw dog food isn't complicated. Some dogs can be switched cold turkey, or after a day of fasting; others may need a slower transition to avoid digestive upset. A gradual transition is recommended if a dog has a history of digestive issues, especially when switching to a new food.
Transition to Commercial Raw
The easiest way to transition a dog to a raw food diet is to switch to a commercial raw product, which you can find at local, independent pet stores. You can discuss your dog's needs and any concerns with the owner or manager, who will help you choose the right product.
Start the transition by replacing a small portion of the dog's diet with raw food, gradually increasing the amount over several weeks. Monitor the dog for any signs of digestive issues or adverse reactions and adjust the diet accordingly. If there is a holistic veterinarian who supports raw feeding in your area, they will be able to offer guidance as well.
I also like to keep organic pureed pumpkin or sweet potato on hand as an additional source of fiber to address poop issues if they arise. My favorite brand is NummyTumTum.
The Role of Proteins in Alleviating Dog Allergies
Proteins are a vital component of a dog's diet and play a significant role in alleviating allergies. The proteins found in raw food are typically higher quality and more easily digestible than those in commercial dog food. This enhanced digestibility reduces the risk of triggering allergic reactions.
In addition to being highly digestible, raw food proteins contain essential amino acids that support overall health and immune function. These amino acids help repair tissues, promote muscle growth, and aid in the production of antibodies that combat allergens.
This explains why some dogs that have a chicken sensitivity can eat a raw dog food recipe that contains chicken.
Incorporating Variety in a Raw Food Diet
Variety is key when it comes to raw feeding. Like their wild ancestors, dogs thrive on a diverse diet that includes various types of meat, bones, organs, and vegetables. This variety ensures that dogs receive a wide range of nutrients necessary for optimal health and helps prevent the development of new allergies.
It's essential to rotate proteins regularly to expose dogs to different sources of nutrients and prevent them from developing sensitivities or allergies to specific proteins. Including a variety of vegetables and fruits can also provide dogs with essential vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants that support their overall well-being.
Supplements for Dogs with Allergies
While raw feeding can provide dogs with most of the nutrients they need, some dogs with allergies may benefit from additional supplements. Omega-3 fatty acids, for example, have anti-inflammatory properties that can help alleviate allergic symptoms. Adding a high-quality fish oil supplement to a dog's raw feeding diet can provide these beneficial fatty acids.
- Life Line Salmon Oil
- Potent Sea Omega-3, Adored Beast Apothecary
- Phyto Synergy, Adored Beast Apothecary
Probiotics are another supplement that can be beneficial for dogs with allergies. Probiotics help maintain a healthy balance of bacteria in the gut, which can support the immune system and reduce the risk of allergic reactions.
- Gussy's Gut
- Gut Soothe, Adored Beast
- Fido's Flora, Adored Beast
Functional mushrooms, such as reishi, turkey tail, and cordyceps, contain bioactive compounds that can help alleviate dog allergies. These mushrooms have been shown to modulate the immune system, reducing hypersensitivity reactions. They can help regulate the production of histamine, which is responsible for allergic symptoms. Additionally, functional mushrooms have anti-inflammatory properties that can help reduce inflammation associated with allergies.
- Daily Dawg, Real Mushrooms
- Immune Tincture – Allergy & Immune Support, Earth Buddy
- Vitality, MyCoDog
Tips for Managing Allergies While Feeding Raw
Managing allergies while feeding a raw diet requires careful observation and customization of the dog's diet. Keep a close eye on your dog's symptoms and monitor for any changes. If you notice an increase in allergic reactions, it may be necessary to identify and eliminate potential allergens from the diet.
I track my dogs' diet and health in an annual planner, noting when I try a new protein or supplement. If I notice a change in behavior – itching, licking, loose stool, or diarrhea, I can review my notes in the planner to quickly identify the cause. I've learned that my dogs can only eat a small amount of green tripe in their meal, and one of my dogs doesn't do well with golden paste unless I blend it with pureed pumpkin or sweet potato.
The Power of Raw Feeding in Relieving Dog Allergies
Raw feeding offers a natural and holistic approach to alleviating dog allergies. By eliminating grains, additives, and artificial ingredients commonly found in commercial dog food, raw feeding promotes optimal digestion, improves gut health, and strengthens the immune system. This can result in a significant reduction in allergic reactions and a happier, healthier dog.
Consider incorporating raw feeding into your dog's diet if your dog suffers from allergies. Ensure a smooth transition by gradually introducing raw food and monitoring for adverse reactions. Remember to provide a variety of proteins and supplements as needed to support your dog's specific needs. With the power of raw feeding, you can help your dog find relief and enjoy a higher quality of life.
