best dog food for skin allergies south africa
Best Dog Food In South Africa
Looking for information on South African dog food brands, but all your searches are returning products from the United States or North America?
The brands and recipes available to dog owners in South Africa are vastly different than those in Europe or the United States and so these discussions and articles are absolutely no use.
Well look no further, weve analyzed and reviewed a considerable swathe of dog food products that are available or produced in South Africa and chosen out some of the best.
South African Dog Food Vs. The Rest Of The World
The quality of dog food in South Africa tends to be noticeably poorer than western countries such as the United States, Canada, and the United Kingdom.
This poorer quality correlates to lower-quality ingredients being used in the recipes and more inadequate nutritional profiles that are low in protein and fat and high in carbohydrates.
However, this is not surprising given that South Africa has a much lower standard of living than the western world, and many residents can not afford to feed their dogs the expensive foods that many in the west do.
Despite this, there are still imports of premium brands from the United States and Europe. These imports fill an essential niche for those living in South Africa with high incomes.
How We Chose The Best Dog Food
Dog Food quality is a complicated discussion, but we try to stay consistent with our choices. Factor such as ingredient quality, nutritional ratios (Protein, Fat, Carbohydrates, Omega Fatty Acids), Recall History, Animal Testing, Price, and Country of Origin all play a part.
Rather than get bogged down in this article on all the fine details of dog food, we recommend you check out ourDog Food Guide for more information on the dog food topic overall.
You can also check out our All Brand Reviews page to see all of the brands weve reviewed to date.
Best Dog Food In South Africa
Field + Forest Game + Lamb All Breed Adult Review
Field + Forest is a premium dog food brand based in South Africa. It is a sub-brand of Montego, which is one of South Africas largest pet food manufacturers. You can read more about Montego here.
Field + Forests Game + Lamb recipe is probably their most unique offering. Exotic meat ingredients like those contained in this recipe rarely make it into South African dog food due to their high cost and more challenging sourcing requirements.
The recipe uses a mix of Lamb, Turkey, Ostrich, and Game to provide a significant portion of protein and fat that would be satisfactory for the majority of dogs.
Also, the proportion of carbohydrates in this recipe is moderate and far lower than most of its competitor recipes. The carbohydrate proportion is provided by a mix of legumes and other vegetables such as Peas, Chickpeas, and Carrots.
You can read more information about Field + Forest here.
Propac Ultimate Chicken Meal & Brown Rice Review
ProPac is owned by the US company Midwestern Pet Foods, which also owns popular brands like Earthborn Holistic and Sportmix. The company was founded almost 100 years ago and so is well established.
ProPac products are aimed at a lower price point than Earthborn Holistic and so produces more cost-effective recipes such as Chicken & Brown Rice. Other examples of lower-cost formulas include Lamb & Brown Rice and Fish & Potato.
Given the substantial differences in the cost of living in the United States and South Africa, this puts ProPac in an advantageous position.
Their Chicken and Rice formula makes use of Chicken Meal as its primary ingredient. This Chicken Meal has already had its moisture removed, which makes it an exceptionally dense source of protein and fat.
The formula then uses a mix of Brown Rice, White Rice, and Rice Bran to provide carbohydrates and fiber. Wed prefer it if there were more Brown Rice present instead of White Rice and Rice Bran, but this is the reality of lower-cost dog food.
Smaller portions of Peas, Dried Beet Pulp, and Flaxseed are also present and provide additional carbohydrates, fiber, and other nutrients.
Orijen is one of the most popular and famous names in the premium pet food industry. They are based in Canada but sell their food all over the world, including South Africa.
Orijens formulas are known to contain a large variety of high-quality meat and fish ingredients in extraordinarily high proportions. The recipes include at least 10+ meat or fish ingredients in a single formula.
The portion of plant-based material in Orijen recipes is always low, and the small portion they do use is from a large variety of fruits and vegetables.
This range includes commonly used ingredients such as Peas and Chickpeas, but also less common ingredients like Carrots and Squash. Some of these less common fruit and vegetable ingredients can provide a unique combination of vitamins and minerals.
OrijensOriginal Formulais a safe bet and contains a range of meat and fish ingredients, including Chicken, Turkey, Flounder, Eggs, among others. These ingredients are combined with vegetables such as Peas, Beans, Pumpkin, and Squash.
All of these ingredients combine to provide a very satisfactory proportion of protein, fat, and carbohydrates that is ideally suited to the vast majority of dogs.
Check out our extremely detailed Orijen brand review page here for more information.
Eukanuba Premium Performance Working & Endurance Review
Eukanuba is another massive North American brand with a worldwide presence. Eukanuba is owned by Mars Petcare, which also owns some other well-known and large brands such as Royal Canin, Whiskas, and Pedigree.
Eukanuba has a vast product range back in the United States; however, the range available in South Africa is notably smaller. However, one of the formulas that is available is their Premium Performance recipe.
The recipe uses a large portion of poultry ingredients that provide a very satisfactory proportion of protein and fat, perfect for a working or very active dog.
Sadly, Eukanuba uses some grain ingredients that some dog owners are not big fans of, such as Wheat and Maize. These ingredients provide the recipes carbohydrate proportion.
Earthborn Holistic Primitive Natural Review
We discussed ProPac earlier and its more premium sister brand Earthborn Holistic. Earthborn Holistic is notably more expensive than ProPac, but this can be worth the cost.
Earthborn Holistics Primitive Natural formula is by far the best recipe from their range. The primary driver behind this is the fantastic proportions of protein and fat that the formula provides.
Primitive Natural contains a considerable portion of meat and fish ingredients, which provide very satisfactory levels of protein and fat. Some of these meat and fish ingredients include Chicken, Turkey, and Whitefish.
The formula also makes use of two staples of the dog food industry: Potatoes and Peas, which provide a small proportion of carbohydrates and fiber. The portion size of these ingredients is not large enough to dilute the level of animal protein, which is crucial.
Another noteworthy trait of this recipe is that it has a surprisingly high level of the Omega 3 Fatty Acid for a formula that doesnt focus heavily on fish. These Omega 3 Fatty Acids are believed to provide several health benefits to humans and dogs alike.
Sadly, the formula does contain Pea Starch, which is a vegetable by-product. You can read more about Vegetable By-products, specifically those derived from Peas in our article Peas, Pea Protein, Pea Flour, and Pea Fiber in Dog Food.
The Pea Starch is used as a binding agent in this recipe, which means it holds the kibble together.
Earthborn Holistic is another brand that weve discussed and reviewed extensively. Check out our overall discussion of the brand here.
Hills Science Plan Performance Chicken Adult Dog Food Review
Hills Science Diet, or Hills Science Plan as it is known in South Africa, is another one of the enormous North American dog food providers.
They produce hundreds of unique recipes that cover every possible breed and size of dog you could imagine.
Thanks to its vast size and product range, Hills has found it easy to distribute some of its products worldwide, including South Africa.
The above recipe is just one that you can find in South Africa. Weve chosen this recipe as it is not tied to a specific breed, and it contains a very generous portion of meat ingredients. This portion of meat ingredients includes a balanced mix of Turkey and Chicken ingredients.
There are very few other ingredients found in this recipe except a moderate proportion of Maize, Beet Pulp, and some oils. Therefore, this recipe may be the right choice for those dogs with an easily upset stomach or sensitivities.
Dog Itchy Skin Remedy: Natural Solutions to Relieve Your Dogs Skin Irritation
Have you ever wondered how to naturally soothe your dogs irritated skin without using harsh chemicals or medications? This comprehensive guide is here to help.
We will explore the various causes of your dogs itchy skin and offer effective, natural solutions, including dog itchy skin home remedy options, to provide relief and improve their overall skin health.
Quick Overview
- Understand the root cause of your dogs inflammatory skin disease to select the appropriate treatment.
- Use natural home remedies such as oatmeal baths, coconut oil and apple cider vinegar for relief.
- Regular grooming, controlling humidity levels in the home and avoiding harsh chemicals can help manage itching. Seek professional advice if necessary.
Understanding the Causes of Your Itchy Dog
Itching skin in dogs, medically known as pruritis, can be caused by various factors, such as allergies, parasites, and environmental triggers. To choose the most effective remedy and provide relief, it is crucial to understand what is causing your dogs itching.
Many dogs suffer from skin conditions or allergies that can lead to excessive itching and discomfort. You can select the appropriate treatment and prevent further irritation by pinpointing the root cause of your dogs itchiness.
Sometimes, a dogs skin condition may be attributed to infections, oily or dry skin, and even hormonal imbalances or stress. A thorough examination of your dogs skin and medical history can help determine the underlying issue and guide you towards the best course of action.
Allergies
Allergies are a common cause of skin infections and associated hair loss in dogs. Food, environmental factors, or contact with certain substances can trigger allergic dermatitis. The rise in allergic dogs has been attributed to aggressive vaccination protocols, inadequate breeding practices, and the consumption of processed pet foods.
Providing dogs with high-potency cultures of probiotic bacteria, such as Bacillus Coagulans soil-based probiotics, at a young age can help reduce the probability of developing allergies.
Recognising the triggers of your dogs allergies is key to managing the issue. For instance, if your dog is allergic to a certain type of protein in their dog food, switching to a hypoallergenic, raw or home-cooked diet may alleviate their itching.
Similarly, if your dog is sensitive to pollen or dust mites, minimising their exposure to these allergens and providing regular grooming can reduce the severity of their skin allergies.
Parasites
Parasites like fleas, mites, and ticks can also cause dog itching and skin irritation. Proper prevention and treatment are essential to keep your dog comfortable and itch-free. Regular grooming, using natural flea and tick prevention products, and avoiding contact with other animals can help prevent a dogs itching due to parasite infestations.
Environmental Factors
Environmental factors, such as dry air or irritants, can contribute to itchy skin in dogs. Maintaining a comfortable environment can help alleviate most dogs symptoms by decreasing exposure to environmental allergens and irritants.
For example, regularly cleaning your home, using air purifiers, and keeping your dogs bedding clean can minimise allergen exposure and reduce frequent scratching and severe itching.
Yeast Infections
Yeast infections are common in dogs and often show up in areas of the skin with lots of wrinkles, such as armpits, between paw pads, and folds in neck skin. This causes red, irritated, itchy, and flaky skin and is occasionally associated with a musty or cheesy smell. Yeast infections are a common cause of hair loss and can also cause infections in a dogs ears.
Top Natural Alternative Home Remedies for Itch Relief
Natural remedies like oatmeal baths, coconut oil, and apple cider vinegar can provide relief for your dogs itchy skin without harmful side effects. These remedies can help soothe itching skin, cool irritated skin, and reduce chronic inflammation caused by various factors such as allergies, atopic dermatitis, infections, and dry skin (dog eczema).
Before turning to medical treatment, it is worth trying these simple home remedies to see if they can alleviate your dogs itching and discomfort.
Oatmeal Baths
Oatmeal baths have long been praised as an age-old remedy for dry skin and hot spots. By using either colloidal oatmeal or regular oatmeal, you can prepare a soothing bath for your dog to soak in and find relief from itching and allergy symptoms.
Let your dog soak in the oatmeal bath for 10 to 15 minutes, allowing the oatmeal to moisturise and calm their irritated skin.
Be sure to rinse thoroughly after the bath to remove any oatmeal residue from their coat.
Coconut Oil
Coconut oil is another versatile, natural remedy for dog skin allergies and itching. Its antiseptic and antifungal nature can help alleviate itching caused by yeast infections, insect bites, and dry skin. You can apply coconut oil directly to your dogs itchy patches and skin, massaging it gently into the affected areas, or add a small amount to your dogs food for added skin benefits.
Always use organic, cold-pressed, and unrefined coconut oil for the best results.
Apple Cider Vinegar
Diluted apple cider vinegar can be used as a spray or paw soak to help relieve your dogs skin issues, thanks to its antibacterial and antifungal properties. Mix equal parts apple cider vinegar and water in a spray bottle and mist onto your dogs coat, avoiding any open wounds or broken skin.
Alternatively, you can prepare a paw soak by mixing one part apple cider vinegar with two parts water and allowing your dogs paws to soak for up to five minutes. This can help reduce itching and prevent them from licking or biting their paws.
Dietary Adjustments for Healthier Skin
Your dogs diet plays a significant role in the health of their skin. A diet lacking essential nutrients can result in dry skin and a dull coat, leading to itching and discomfort. Adjusting your dogs diet can improve your dogs digestive system and function to improve the health of their skin and reduce the severity of skin allergies and itching.
Incorporating omega-3, probiotics, and prebiotics into your dogs diet can help maintain a healthy gut and immune system, potentially reducing the severity of skin allergies and itching.
In some cases, food allergies may cause your dogs itchy skin, and an elimination diet may help identify the specific allergens responsible. Once the allergens are identified, adjusting your dogs diet accordingly can help alleviate their itching and improve their overall skin condition.
Collagen
NutriFlex Everyday Maintenance Collagen Supplement, formulated with premium hydrolysed collagen peptides and MSM, benefits dogs with itchy skin and overall skin health.
- The Benefits of Collagen for Dogs with Itchy Skin:
- Structure & Elasticity: Collagen is the skins main protein, providing it with structure and elasticity. As dogs age, their natural production of collagen decreases, which can lead to drier and less elastic skin that might be more prone to itching and other skin conditions.
- Barrier Function: A healthy skin barrier can protect against environmental allergens and irritants that might cause itching. Collagen can help maintain and repair this barrier.
- Hydration: Collagen molecules can bind water, thus keeping the skin hydrated. Well-hydrated skin is less likely to become dry and itchy.
- The Benefits of MSM (Methylsulfonylmethane) for Dogs with Itchy Skin:
- Anti-inflammatory Properties: MSM is believed to have anti-inflammatory properties. Inflammation can be a cause or result of itchy skin. By reducing inflammation, MSM might help reduce itchiness and discomfort.
- Sulfur Source: MSM is a source of sulfur, a vital component for producing collagen and keratin (another key protein in skin and hair). By supporting the production of these proteins, MSM can promote healthier and more resilient skin in dogs.
- Detoxification: Some proponents believe that MSM can help detoxify the body and reduce allergic reactions, which might subsequently decrease skin irritations and itching.
Synergy: Its worth noting that the combined effects of collagen and MSM might be more beneficial than each component on its own. The collagen provides structural support for the skin, while the MSM supports the production of essential proteins and has potential anti-inflammatory effects.
Omega-3 Fatty Acids
Omega-3 essential fatty acids, found in fish oil and flaxseed oil, can help reduce chronic inflammation and improve the health of your dogs skin. These essential fatty acids can strengthen the skin barrier, protect it from environmental damage, moisturise the skin, and promote a healthy and glossier coat.
Including premium OmegaMax omega-3 fish oil softgels in your dogs diet can help alleviate skin allergies, irritation, and itching, making it a beneficial addition for all dogs, not only dogs prone to skin conditions.
Probiotics and Prebiotics
Probiotics and prebiotics can support a healthy gut and immune system, potentially reducing the severity of skin allergies and itching in dogs. These beneficial compounds can be found in various sources, such as yoghurt, kefir, and fermented vegetables, or in the form of natural supplements, such as NutriFlex FloraMax and DigestiMax.
Incorporating probiotics and prebiotics into your dogs diet can help maintain a healthy digestive system, reduce inflammation, and improve their overall skin health.
Elimination Diets
An elimination diet is a dietary regimen that excludes specific ingredients to determine potential food allergies that may be causing your dogs itchy skin. Elimination diets have been proven to be more reliable than skin allergy tests and blood tests for identifying food allergies.
If you suspect your dog has allergic reactions to certain foods, consult your veterinarian for guidance on implementing an elimination diet and identifying the allergens responsible for your dogs itching.
Additional Tips for Managing Your Dogs Itchy Skin
In addition to natural alternative remedies and dietary adjustments, there are other measures you can take to manage your dogs itchy skin. Regular grooming, such as brushing and combing, can help remove allergens and irritants from your dogs coat.
Controlling humidity levels in your home can prevent dry skin and itching. Lastly, avoiding harsh chemicals, such as certain shampoos or household cleaners, can prevent further irritation and help stop itching.
1. Regular Grooming
Regular grooming, including brushing and bathing, can help remove allergens and irritants from your dogs coat, reducing itching. Brushing gently in the direction of hair growth can help eliminate allergens and stimulate blood flow, promoting healing.
Bathing with a mild shampoo and warm water can remove dirt and debris that can cause skin irritation. Grooming your dog regularly can help manage their itchy skin and prevent further irritation.
2. Humidity Control
Maintaining proper humidity levels in your home can help prevent dry skin and itching in dogs. Using a hygrometer, you can monitor the moisture content in your home and adjust humidity levels with a dehumidifier or humidifier as needed.
Keeping your home well-ventilated and avoiding the use of harsh chemicals can also help maintain a comfortable environment for your dog.
3. Avoid Harsh Chemicals
Avoid using harsh chemicals, such as certain shampoos or household cleaners that may irritate your dogs skin and cause itching. Opt for natural or gentle alternatives whenever possible, and consult your veterinarian for recommendations on safe products for your dogs skin.
By avoiding harsh chemicals, you can help prevent further irritation and promote healthy skin for your dog.
When to Consult Your Veterinarian
While natural remedies and dietary adjustments can help manage your dogs itchy skin, it is important to consult your veterinarian if your dogs itching persists, shows signs of infection, or if you suspect an underlying health issue. Your veterinarian can accurately diagnose the cause of your dogs itching and provide appropriate treatment options.
Remember, not all itchy skin conditions are the same, and professional guidance is essential in finding the most effective solution for your itchy dog.
Persistent Itching
Persistent itching may indicate a more serious issue that requires professional intervention and treatment. If your dog continues to scratch, lick, or chew their skin despite trying natural remedies and making dietary adjustments, consult your veterinarian for a thorough examination and appropriate treatment options.
They can help identify potential underlying causes, such as allergies, infections, parasites, or other dermatological conditions, and provide the necessary care to alleviate your dogs itching.
1. Signs of Infection
Signs of infection, such as redness, swelling, raw skin, or discharge, warrant a visit to the veterinarian for proper diagnosis and treatment. If you notice any of these symptoms in your dog, do not hesitate to seek professional advice.
2. Underlying Health Issues
Underlying health issues, such as hormonal imbalances or immune system disorders, may contribute to your dogs itchy skin and require medical attention. If you suspect your dog has an underlying health issue causing their itching, consult your veterinarian for a proper diagnosis and treatment plan.
Addressing these underlying issues can alleviate your dogs itching and improve their overall health and well-being.
Summary
In conclusion, understanding the causes of your dogs itchy skin and exploring natural remedies and dietary adjustments can greatly improve your dogs skin condition and comfort. Regular grooming, humidity control, and avoiding harsh chemicals can also help manage your dogs itchy skin and prevent further irritation.
However, always consult your veterinarian if your dogs itching persists, shows signs of infection, or if you suspect an underlying health issue. Your dog can enjoy a life free of itchy discomfort with the right care and attention.
Frequently Asked Questions
What can I use on my dog to stop her itching?
To stop your dogs itching, you can apply 100% aloe vera gel, colloidal silver gel, try medicated shampoos and topical ointments, and administer omega-3 fish oil and a probiotic supplement for dogs.
What stops itching fast?
Applying a cold press to the itchy area, using over-the-counter corticosteroid cream, and moisturizing with a mild detergent can help relieve itching quickly. Cool compresses may decrease the itch by distracting the nerves, while creams or lotions with menthol, camphor, or capsaicin can also offer relief.
What are some common causes of itchy skin in dogs?
Allergies, parasites, and environmental factors are the most commonly reported causes of itchy skin in dogs.
What foods can make dogs itch?
Certain foods can trigger allergic reactions in dogs, leading to itching and other skin issues. When a dog has a food allergy, their immune system overreacts to specific proteins in the food, causing various symptoms, including pruritus (itching). Common food allergens for dogs include:
- Beef
- Chicken
- Dairy products (milk, cheese, yoghurt)
- Eggs
- Wheat
- Soy
- Corn
- Pork
- Fish
- Lamb
What does pruritus in dogs mean?
Canine pruritus, also known as itching, is a common symptom in dogs that can result from various underlying causes. Itching is an uncomfortable sensation that leads dogs to scratch, chew, lick, or rub their skin to alleviate the irritation.
Pruritus is not a specific disease itself but rather a sign of an underlying issue affecting the animals skin or body. Itching, dry, itchy skin may also be associated with parasitic infections and allergic reactions.
How can I adjust my pets diet to improve the health of their skin?
To improve your dogs long-term skin and coat health, add NutriFlex Everyday Maintenance Collagen and omega-3 fish oil such as NutriFlex OmegaMax softgels. You may also wish to consider adding probiotics with prebiotics, such as NutriFlex FloraMax, to your dogs food.
Omega-3 essential fatty acids are essential for healthy skin and coat. They help reduce inflammation and can help reduce the risk of skin allergies. Probiotics are beneficial bacteria that help maintain a healthy balance of bacteria in the body.
