Hypoallergenic Dog Food & Diet

Allergic Skin Conditions
Many dogs have allergies to various things within their environments. Just like people, dogs can have allergies to grass, to pollen, to chemicals, and to foods. Just like people, dogs can also be treated for these allergies, once the source of the allergen has been determined. In many cases, the dog may be sensitive to any corn that is present in his food. If your dog has sensitivity to other ingredients, then your veterinarian may be able to help you determine the source.

How Can I Tell if my Dog has an Allergy?
Your dog may show a variety of symptoms, depending on the kind of allergy he has. Some common symptoms might include feet chewing, excessive licking, hair loss or discoloration, pustules, sores, and inflammation. Certain behaviors can often be linked to certain allergies: licking and pustules on the dog's rear may be a symptom of flea allergy dermatitis, since fleas will linger where the dog can not easily reach them. Foot chewing is a common symptom of a dietary allergy, while inflammation often accompanies allergies in the ears. These symptoms can be signs of other conditions, however, so you should work with a veterinarian to determine a cause. Use of blood tests, skin testing, and elimination diets may be used to diagnose the source of the allergen.

What is L-Glutamine? What does it Do?
L-Glutamine, also known as glutamine, is an amino acid that is found in large amounts in your dog's body. It is an energy source, primarily used by the digestive system where it supports healing of the mucous cells that line that system. Glutamine also protects your dog in times of stress, preventing muscle loss. It is reputed to have anti-aging effects.

Glutamine is often available as a dietary supplement in products that combine it with other ingredients. Depending on the nature of the condition and its severity, glutamine has a recommended daily dose of 250 to 3000 mg. If you feel that glutamine would be beneficial to your pet's health, consult a veterinarian to determine its most effective use.

Hypoallergenic Dog Food and Prescription Diets
A hypoallergenic diet is one in which your dog is fed "novel" nutritional sources of both proteins and carbohydrates, to determine the source of an allergen. Many pets are allergic to chicken, beef, lamb, corn, and rice when they are processed for commercial dog foods. Duck, venison, and potatoes are good alternative food sources for such diets. The dog must not consume any edible treats during the term of a hypoallergenic diet.

Special diets may contain the supplements that are required to relieve your pet's allergy symptoms. Many of these diets are available through veterinary clinics or through stores that work in conjunction with veterinarians.

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