what can i give my german shepherd for allergies

German Shepherd Allergies

Dogs were the first-ever domesticated animal in the world. But thats not to say todays dogs are already perfect. They, too, still have flaws just like us.

They get sick. They age. And they will eventually have to leave us. The most important part is that you did your best to give them a good life, just like how they did to you.

The same can be said with German shepherd allergies. You can rest easy knowing that youve done your best to help them overcome such challenges.

However, you cant really say that youve done your best if you didnt even spend time learning about the allergies of German shepherds.

This article aims to help you take the first step to ensure that your GSD will no longer have to endure allergies.

A Brief Introduction to German Shepherd Allergies

An allergy is a response of the immune system to substances that come in contact with or get inside the body.

This usually involves substances such as fur, pollen, and even food. These substances are called allergens and are the cause of German shepherd allergies.

You may think that it should be fine if the immune system is responsible for it.

However, it is actually a mistake on the side of the immune system as it damages the body.

There are different responses that the immune system can do, such as itchiness, dizziness, and more. And just like that, different dog breeds also have a different set of immune responses to allergens.

According to statistics, 10% of all dogs develop allergies. So some breeds are prone to allergies, while others are not. Unfortunately, German shepherds drew the short straw and are, therefore, prone to allergies.

The susceptibility to allergies is typically genetic. In some cases, a German shepherd that has a higher tendency to develop allergies can produce offspring prone to allergies.

However, this does not mean the offspring will inherit this trait 100% of the time. But it also goes in the opposite way. A German shepherd that has no allergy may produce offspring that has allergies.

Regardless, genetics still play a major role in determining a dogs susceptibility to allergies. However, if you are allergic to dogs, you might want to consider adopting a hypoallergenic German shepherd.

Different Kinds of German Shepherd Allergies

There are many types of allergies in German shepherds. However, being dogs, types such as drug allergies are barely possible. As such, there are only three types that are common to German shepherds.

• Food Allergy: This is an immune response that happens once the dog eats certain food. The severity of the allergy is proportional to the amount of food taken by the German shepherd. Food allergies, in its simplest form, the more you eat that food, the longer and more extreme the symptoms will be.
• Skin Allergy: This type of allergy, as the name suggests, mainly affects the skin. And just like with food allergies, the more exposure the dog gets to the allergen, the stronger the skin allergy will be.
• Environmental Allergy (including seasonal allergies): This allergy is often caused by elements in the environment, hence the name. Seasonal allergies can be considered environmental, although it only happens in a certain period in a year. For example, a dog may be allergic to pollen released by plants that only bloom in February.

How Can You Tell What Allergy Your Dog Has?

An allergy cant be called allergy if there arent any symptoms. But rest assured because theyre usually not life-threatening. Only a very few exceptions of German shepherd allergies took lives.

Depending on the kind of German shepherd allergy, the indications and causes may vary. Regardless, there will always be a way to tell what kind of allergy your German shepherd has.

Symptoms

Food Allergy: The signs often involve your German shepherds digestive system. Some cases affect even skin. Regardless, here are some of the signs that your GSD developed a food allergy.

• Dizziness
• Hives
• Vomiting, Nausea
• Swelling in the throat, lips, face, and tongue
• Panting

One of the most common types of food allergies is the infamous German shepherd chicken allergy which consists of more severe symptoms than normal.

Skin Allergy: German shepherd food allergies and skin allergies are a bit connected in the way that hives can be seen as a symptom of both. There are, however, other symptoms of skin allergy besides hives. Heres a look at the most common ones:

• Swelling
• Burning
• Redness
• Rashes
• Bumps
• Blisters

Typically, your German shepherd will have to endure these symptoms for 2 to 4 weeks before they fade away.

Environmental Allergy: The symptoms of this type of allergy are not that damaging. The worst it can do is make your German shepherds life a bit uncomfortable. Common symptoms include:

• Difficulty breathing
• Wheezing
• Lower energy levels
• Itching
• Sneezing

There are also health issues that have these symptoms as well. Thats why it would also be helpful when finding out your German shepherds allergies by remembering if your GSD encountered a trigger that caused the allergy.

Causes

Food Allergy: As previously mentioned, this allergy develops only after the dog eats a portion of certain food. For example, a German shepherd chicken allergy will only develop after the dog eats a chicken food product.

To give you an idea of what to avoid, some of the most common causes of food allergies are milk, nuts, wheat, and chicken ingredients such as eggs.

The symptoms may start to show after at least a few minutes or even as long as 15 minutes once the food allergen is ingested.

Skin Allergy: It is often caused when the German shepherd comes in contact with a particular substance.

It can take anywhere from 12 hours to 3 days after the dog comes in contact with the allergen for these symptoms to show.

Environmental Allergy: This is often associated with skin allergies, but instead of coming in contact with objects like steel, wood, or plastic, the allergen lies in the environment.

In short, what seems to be harmless can be what triggers environmental allergies. This includes dust, pollen, and more.

Veterinary Diagnosis

Diagnosis of allergies in German shepherds is often done before they develop allergies although some do it right after the symptoms.

Blood Test: This type of diagnosis checks the German shepherds blood to examine antibodies if it is triggered by certain allergens. It is often done for checking environmental allergens.

Skin Test: Veterinary dermatologists are the right person for this job. During the test, they inject into your dog different allergens. Obviously, it checks for German shepherd skin conditions which may be a response to these various allergens injected into the dog.

Saliva Test: As you may have already guessed, this test is used to check for food allergies. It involves getting a saliva sample and exposing it to different food to know which of them is the most problematic.

After confirming the development of your German shepherds allergies, you should make haste in coming up with a way to treat it.

German Shepherds Allergies Treatment

As soon as you see the aforementioned symptoms in your German shepherd, treatment should be prioritized. Again, the treatment will vary according to the kind of allergy.

• Food Allergies: Your German shepherd is likely to have trouble breathing or experience dizziness. So make sure you let him rest for a while. Also, consider using a warm or cold compress brag to any swelling part of their body.
• Skin Allergies: You can use anti-itch cream on your dog if hes having itchy skin. You can also soak a piece of cloth and press it against the skin of your German shepherd. If youre done with all this, take your dog to a shower to ease rashes.
• Environmental Allergies: There isnt much to do after a German shepherd develops environmental allergies. For what its worth, letting your dog rest may help a bit.

Fortunately, you can now help your dog avoid allergies while feeding them at the same time. Thats because the advancements today offered us the best dog food for German shepherds with skin allergies and environmental allergies.

Preventing Allergies in German Shepherds

While some consider it as treatment, the best way to help your German shepherd overcome allergies is to prevent them from happening in the first place.

There are several ways to do this, one involves doing natural things while the other involves medicine and injections.

Natural Allergy Prevention

If you took notes of what we discussed until this point, you should have an idea of how to naturally prevent allergies. Regardless, here are some tips in preventing allergy the old-fashioned way.

For environmental allergies

• Since environmental allergens are literally in the air, preventing this isnt going to be easy. Either way, you still need to minimize its risks.
• Keep tabs on what your German shepherd does outside, as there may be allergens.
• Consider getting rid of plants that give off pollen.
• Regularly clean the outside of your house to avoid too much buildup of dust.
• Close the windows to avoid any allergens from going inside the house.
• Dont let your German shepherd into the bed as there may be dust all around.

For skin allergies

• The simplest way to prevent skin allergies is to avoid as much contact with objects as much as possible.
• Restrict your German shepherd to wide areas, since tight places may be the cause of a German shepherds itchy skin.

For food allergies

• Unfortunately, the only way to prevent food allergies is to not let your dog eat the food theyre allergic to.
• There are over-the-counter medicines for preventing skin and environmental, but sadly, there arent any for food allergies.

Anti-Allergy Medications

Immunotherapy: Immunotherapy is the best and most efficient way to prevent allergies through the use of man-made methods.

It is where your German shepherd is injected with small doses of allergens so they can get used to it. While it doesnt make them completely immune to the allergen, it does lower the chances of developing allergies.

This does not work overnight. It might even take a year for the effects to show. There are, however, side effects for every injection, although it wont be a traumatic experience for the dog.

Conclusion

Being a pet owner, you should already know how heavy the responsibility is for owning German shepherds, let alone any single dog.

However, once you buy or adopt a dog, you have now taken that responsibility and it is therefore required of you to prepare yourself to take care of your German shepherd. This includes minimizing the risks of your German shepherd developing allergies.

Thats what this blog post had shown you. Now, you are knowledgeable of what allergies really are, their types, and their signs. You even learned about treatments and preventions. At this point, you are already prepared for the worst German shepherd allergies.

Understanding German Shepherd Food Allergies: Symptoms, Causes, and Solutions

German Shepherd Food Allergiesa topic as intriguing as it is essential for every GSD owner.

In this comprehensive guide, were diving deep into the world of German Shepherd food allergies with practical solutions to make your pups life a whole lot better.

Before we dig into the nitty-gritty of German Shepherd food allergies, lets start with the basics.

What Are Food Allergies in German Shepherds?

German Shepherd food allergies are when your dogs immune system reacts to certain ingredients in their food as if they were harmful invaders. They occur when your pups immune system mistakes a harmless food ingredient for a dangerous intruder. This overreaction leads to a range of uncomfortable symptoms like dry, itchy skin, an upset stomach, or even ear infections. To keep your German Shepherd allergy-free, you must first identify and then manage these food reactions through dietary changes and vet guidance.

But dont worry, its not the end of the world and there are solutions.

Spotting the Culprit: Common Signs and Symptoms of German Shepherd Food Allergies

Aha!

The detective part of our journey begins.

Recognizing food allergies in your German Shepherd is crucial to provide prompt relief.

Here are some common food allergy symptoms in German Shepherds to watch out for:

1. Endless Itching

Does your dog scratch like hes solving a puzzle that doesnt exist? Itchy skin is often the first clue, especially itching and scratching until their skin is red, sore, and even bleeding.

2. Digestive Distress

Is their tummy rumbling like a thunderstorm? Frequent diarrhea, vomiting, or gas might be the clues youre looking for, especially if they happen right after meal times like clockwork.

3. Ear Issues

Are your German Shepherds ears playing host to more drama than a soap opera? Ear infections are common in German Shepherds with food allergies. You might notice a smell coming from their ear canals if the ear issues have become seriously infected.

4. Excessive Shedding

Every GSD owner knows that shedding is part of the deal. But if it seems excessive or your pup is losing clumps of fur, it might be due to allergies. Imagine your pup experimenting with a new fashion statementrandom bald patches. Well, thats not a fashion fad; its often a sign of food allergies.

5. Paw Obsession

Does your German Shepherds paws get more love than you? Excessive licking and nibbling on his paws are signs of discomfort. Food allergies cause irritations to all parts of your dogs body, but are more commonly seen in the ears and the paws.

If you spot any of these clues, its time to consult your trusted veterinarian for a thorough investigation.

What Causes Food Allergies in German Shepherds?

Food allergies in German Shepherds can be caused by a mix of factors. Genetics play a role, as some GSDs are more prone to allergies due to their family history. Environmental factors like pollen or mold can worsen these allergies. Dietary habits, including abrupt food changes or irritating dog treats, can also trigger them. Identifying and avoiding these causes is key to keeping your German Shepherd allergy-free and happy.

Before we dive into the heart of the matter, lets meet the sneaky culprits that often cause our GSDs to develop food allergies.

Imagine this as a lineup of potential troublemakers and common foods that can trigger allergies in German Shepherds:

1. Proteins

Proteins are like the A-listers in your pups diet, but not all proteins are equal. Some, like beef, chicken, or dairy, can turn into the villains of the story, causing those incessant itching and scratching fits.

2. Grains

Grains like wheat, corn, and soy are often used in commercial dog foods. Little do we know; they can be the silent troublemakers behind your German Shepherds tummy troubles and skin irritations. Grains are a less common food allergy compared to proteins.

3. Artificial Additives

Artificial flavors, colors, and preservatives? Well, theyre possible mischief-makers in your pups culinary world, and they can lead to allergies. Colorings, preservatives, and flavors can also stir up problems, especially when combined with grains or proteins triggers.

4. Environmental Allergens

Sometimes, its not about whats in your dogs food bowl, but whats in the air. Pollen, mold, dust mites, and even cleaning products can make your dogs life a sneezy, itchy mess. External factors like these can make allergies worse.

5. Genetics

German Shepherds, like humans, can have a genetic predisposition to allergies. If other family members (canine, of course) have allergies, your GSD might be at risk too. The GSD is a breed prone to stomach sensitivities and stomach problems, unfortunately.

6. Dietary Habits

Your pups diet plays a significant role, and I dont mean just the type of food you feed. Introducing new foods abruptly can trigger some allergies.

7. Unsuspecting Treats

You cant resist those puppy eyes, but what if that yummy treat holds a hidden dangerGerman Shepherd Food Allergies? Yes, we love to pamper our GSDs with treats, but even those tasty treats can lead to allergies.

How Do Food Allergies Differ from Other Allergies?

You might wonder how food allergies are different from other types of allergies, like environmental or seasonal allergies.

Well, its quite simple. Food allergies in German Shepherds are triggered by something they eat, while environmental allergies are caused by things like pollen or dust.

Sometimes helpful owners think their German Shepherd has a food allergy when, in reality, they have a skin allergy. Understanding this distinction is key to helping your pup.

Creating an Allergy-Friendly Diet for Your German Shepherd

Enough with the detective work!

Now that weve uncovered the mystery, its time to master the art of crafting an allergy-friendly diet for your German Shepherd.

Lets dive into the solutions to manage your German Shepherds food allergies.

Heres your allergy-friendly German Shepherd diet crash course:

1. Consult Your Vet, Your Expert Guide

Your first step?

Consult your veterinarian.

Theyll perform allergy tests to pinpoint your dogs arch-nemesis, whether its chicken, beef, or something else. They can recommend suitable treatments or dietary changes.

Allergy testing can be a game-changer. It helps identify the specific allergen causing the issue. This can be done through blood tests or skin tests, depending on your vets recommendation.

2. Feed Your German Shepherd a Hypoallergenic or Limited Ingredient Dog Food

Say hello to hypoallergenic dog food, the superhero diet for allergic pups.

These special diets use single proteins, minimal ingredients, and steer clear of common allergens like wheat, soy, and dairy.

Changing your GSDs diet is often the first step in managing food allergies. The most popular over-the-counter dog foods for German Shepherds with food allergies are hypoallergenic dog foods or limited-ingredient diets to help isolate the allergen.

You can find a hand-selected list here: Best Dog Foods for German Shepherds with Skin Allergies

Its also possible your German Shepherd may need a prescription diet for food allergies.

Yes, high-quality dog food and vet visits may cost a bit more, but consider it an investment in your pups long-term health and happiness.

To emphasize the importance of the right diet, heres a quote from Tufts University, a renowned canine nutrition research facility:

If your veterinarian diagnoses a food allergy using a dietary elimination trial with a veterinary diet or home-cooked diet, you may be able to manage your pet afterward with specific over-the-counter diets (once the specific allergen is identified) (source).

3. Steer Clear of Any Food Triggers

Once you know the trigger, the next step is to avoid it. Read labels carefully and choose foods that do not contain the allergen.

This includes all those yummy treats you and your family love to give your pup for being such a good doggo!

Focus on only feeding single-ingredient treats, like those found in in these all natural chews.

Besides hypoallergenic treats, you could also try some simple no-bake treat options, like these:

Carrot Sticks:

Simply wash, peel, and cut fresh carrots into sticks.

A crunchy, low-calorie treat.

Frozen Blueberries:

Pop some fresh blueberries in the freezer.

A superfood snack packed with antioxidants.

Green Bean Crunchies:

Steam fresh green beans and let them cool.

They make a satisfying, snap-worthy snack.

Remember to introduce new treats gradually to ensure they agree with your German Shepherds tummy. These homemade options not only help keep allergies at bay but also add a loving touch to your pups snack time.

4. Avoid Tummy Troubles with a Slow Transition and Regular Mealtimes

When transitioning to a new diet, remember: slow and steady wins the race. Gradually introduce the new food to your dog to avoid tummy upsets.

Stick to a consistent feeding schedule. Regular mealtimes help manage your pups allergies effectively.

5. Document and Learn with a Food Diary

Keep a diary of your German Shepherds meals and reactions. This will help you and your vet track his progress and make necessary adjustments to his diet.

Note down what they eat and any reactions they have. This can be invaluable when you consult with your vet.

Ive included a free food diary for you below this article.

6. Supplement with Allergy-Reducing Soothers

Sometimes, supplements like Omega-3 fatty acids can help soothe itchy skin and reduce inflammation caused by allergies.

Along with probiotics and antioxidants, these additions to your German Shepherds diet may reduce the occurrence of allergies and help strengthen your dogs immune system. Ive got recommended supplements listed in this article.

7. Explore Medication Options

In severe cases, your vet may prescribe medications like antihistamines or steroids to relieve allergy symptoms. If home treatments and remedies dont work to help your German Shepherds food allergies, they may require a regimen of medications.

Now that youve armed yourself with knowledge and practical solutions, lets talk about the benefits of supplements for helping to manage allergies.

Supplements for Food Allergies: Boosting Your German Shepherds Well-Being

In addition to dietary changes, supplements can play a significant role in managing your German Shepherds food allergies and overall health.

Here are some beneficial supplements to consider for food allergies in German Shepherds:

1. Omega-3 Fatty Acids

Omega-3 fatty acids, typically found in these fish oil supplements, can help reduce inflammation and alleviate skin irritations caused by food allergies.

Additionally, these essential fatty acids can promote a shinier and healthier coat, making your dog look and feel their best. Omega-3s can also provide relief from itching and scratching, so your German Shepherd is more comfortable and content.

2. Probiotics

Probiotic supplements promote healthy gut bacteria, which can improve digestion and boost the immune system.

Look for dog-specific probiotics, such as those containing Lactobacillus and Bifidobacterium strains, as they are particularly beneficial for your dogs digestive health. By incorporating probiotics into your dogs diet, you can help mitigate the effects of food allergies.

3. Antioxidants

Antioxidant supplements containing vitamins C and E can provide additional immune system support and aid in skin healing. These antioxidants work together to combat the harmful effects of free radicals in your dogs body, which can exacerbate allergies and skin issues.

Vitamin C, in particular, can help reduce inflammation, while vitamin E promotes skin repair and regeneration.

Before adding any supplements to your dogs diet, consult your veterinarian. They can recommend the right dosages and ensure they wont interact with any medications your pup may be taking.

In Summary: A Happy, Healthy, Allergy-Free GSD

Congratulations, youre now well-versed in the world of German Shepherd food allergies!

Understanding and managing German Shepherd food allergies is a necessary part of responsible pet ownership. It might take some detective work, dietary changes, and vet consultations, but imagine your German Shepherd running around, full of energy, with no itching, ear infections, or tummy troubles.

Thats the goal, and its achievable!

So, whats your next step?

Its time to take action.

Consult your vet if you suspect allergies in your GSD, start keeping that food diary, and make dietary changes if needed.

Remember, youre not just a pet owner; youre a pet hero!

Its time to don your superhero cape (or your favorite dog-themed t-shirt) and embark on this adventure.

Dont forget!

Look below the FAQ section for your FREE food log diary.

FAQ Section: Frequently Asked Questions About German Shepherd Food Allergies

Navigating the world of German Shepherd food allergies can be a puzzle. To help you put the pieces together, Ive compiled a list of frequently asked questions and provided clear answers to make your journey smoother.

What are the common signs of food allergies in German Shepherds?

Common signs include itching, skin irritations, digestive issues (vomiting, diarrhea), ear infections, excessive shedding, and bald patches. Always consult your veterinarian for a proper diagnosis.

How can I identify the specific food causing allergies in my German Shepherd?

You can make changes to your dogs diet at home by feeding hypoallergenic or limited-ingredient diets. Always consult your vet for allergy tests, such as elimination diets or blood tests. These tests can pinpoint the allergen, whether its a protein like chicken or grains like wheat.

Can food allergies develop over time in my German Shepherd?

Yes, food allergies can develop over time, even if your dog has been eating the same food for years. Dogs can become sensitized to ingredients theyve been exposed to for a long time.

Is grain-free food the best choice for a German Shepherd with food allergies?

No, not necessarily. While many dogs benefit from grain-free diets, its important to identify your dogs specific allergens. Focus on eliminating those allergens from their diet rather than assuming grains are the issue.

Can my German Shepherd outgrow food allergies?

Some dogs may outgrow allergies, but its not guaranteed. Many German Shepherds have sensitive stomachs (not true food allergies) throughout their lives. Regular monitoring and dietary management are essential to ensure your dogs continuing health.

Are homemade meals better for managing food allergies than commercial dog food?

No, not necessarily. Homemade meals can be tailored to your dogs specific allergies, but they take more time to prepare and you must consult a veterinarian or canine nutritionist to ensure they receive a balanced diet. Commercial dog food is generally less stressful for owners to provide and comes in hypoallergenic and limited ingredient formulas.

Can I give my German Shepherd treats if they have food allergies?

Yes, choose limited-ingredient treats (those having only 1 ingredient are preferable), or make your own using allergy-friendly ingredients. Avoid treats with common allergens.

How long does it take to see improvements after switching to an allergy-friendly diet?

It varies, but you may notice improvements within a few weeks. Full relief may take several months as your dogs body heals from the previous allergen exposure.

Can I manage my German Shepherds food allergies without a vets help?

No. While you can make dietary changes at home, consulting a vet is crucial for an accurate diagnosis, allergy testing, and a tailored treatment plan. A vets guidance is invaluable in managing your dogs health.

Remember, your vet is your ally in keeping your pup happy and allergy-free!

Free German Shepherd Food Log with a Bonus Mini Healthy Pup Guide

Ive got something special just for you a free Food Log and Daily Meal Diary designed exclusively for your German Shepherd with food allergies.

This essential tool will help you track their meals, identify potential triggers, and work with your vet to create a personalized allergy-free diet.

But wait!

Im throwing in a bonus Happy Pup Guide filled with easy tips and tricks to keep your German Shepherd joyously content.

Dont miss out on this fantastic resource to improve your pups allergies.

Download your free Food Log and Daily Meal Diary with the Bonus Happy Pup Guide now and take the first step towards a healthier, happier life for your pup!

Please dont give up on your German Shepherds food allergies!

I know that you can find relief for them with persistence.