[anonymous]

No, you need to take her to the vet. She may need a shot of prednisone to temporarily stop the pruritus and suffering before she develops secondary skin infections.
Discuss with your vet what testing options he recommends. Ideally you should see a veterinary dermatologist.
However give your vet a chance to treat her condition first.
Please use the search engine, tons of information on this topic.
/forums/topic/allergies-and-itchy-dogs/

Ps: It sounds like environmental allergies. It probably has nothing to do with the food.

[Jennifer]

Tyla, if you think your dog has a food allergy, you should try grain free and avoid chicken as the base protein. I read that most food allergies in dog are stemmed from chicken. The other possibility is that your dog has environmental allergies. My dog has them bad and it started when she was about 6 mos. She is now on Cytopoint injections every 8 weeks and an allergy shot weekly.

As for food. Check out Farmina Puppy Maxi. My local organic pet store recommended it to me and my dogs love it. The puppy is on the lamb formula (they have a chicken and fish one too) and my 2 adult Danes rotate between the adult Maxi flavors. It’s priced about the same as Wellness, which I have also used in the past and it’s great, but my dogs stopped eating it suddenly. I’d also recommend Orijen Puppy Large, but it’s mush more expensive.

Good luck!

[anonymous]

Cytopoint is prescribed for the treatment of environmental allergies. Food has no effect on environmental allergies and where your dog has two serious medical conditions besides the allergies, I think anyone advising you over the internet to do anything other than what the treating veterinarian recommends would be irresponsible.
I would refer you back to the veterinarian to discuss your options regarding diet changes and allergy treatment. Or, have the veterinarian refer you to a specialist if he thinks this would help.

[anonymous]

If your dog has environmental allergies, the food has nothing to do with it.
Make an appointment with a veterinary dermatologist for the best results.
Btw: Steroids are often necessary and the only way to stop the suffering (temporarily) until the dog gets seen by a specialist and recommended testing (not phony baloney mail-in hair and saliva tests) is done.
Once you get an accurate diagnosis you can then evaluate the treatment options.
Raw food is the worst thing you could do to any living thing.

This is not veterinary advice; consult your veterinarian.

Ps: There is no cure for allergies. Initial testing by a veterinary dermatologist and start of treatment can run up to $600-$1000 depending, maintenance can run from $300- $600 every 5 months or so. But, for many dogs it works, and they are comfortable.
Treatment tends to be lifelong. Ask your vet (a veterinary health care professional) if you don’t believe me.

[anonymous]

Hope this helps:
Flea Allergy Dermatitis or Flea Bite Hypersensitivity
Veterinary & Aquatic Services Department, Drs. Foster & Smith

Studies have shown that there are over 15 different antigens in the saliva of the flea. Each one of these is capable of causing an allergic response in a sensitive dog or cat. Despite recent advances in flea control, flea bite allergies and flea bite dermatitis still continue to be common problems.

Preventing flea bites is critical for pets with flea allergies.
Dogs and cats rarely become desensitized to flea bites once they develop an allergy. Dogs and cats that are not allergic to flea bites rarely develop lesions from the bites, but may bite or scratch at the flea when it bites them. Some studies have shown that up to 40% of dogs in any given area will test positive for flea bite allergies. Other studies show that many dogs with flea allergies also have inhalant allergies (atopy) compounding the problem. There does not appear to be a breed or sex predilection for this allergy.
Symptoms

Flea bite allergy is characterized by being a seasonal allergy that is worse during peak flea times in the summer and fall. Even in temperate areas or in cases with home infestations, the symptoms of flea bite allergies appear to worsen in the summer and fall. Dogs that have flea allergies will bite at the base of their tail and scratch frequently. Even a few fleas can cause hours and days of intense itching. Many dogs have a characteristic loss or thinning of hair above the base of the tail. In addition, fleas or flea dirt (feces) can be found on the dog the majority of the time. The feces, or flea dirt will dissolve into a red color when moistened; this is because it is primarily digested blood. However, if the dog is bathed or treated regularly, very little evidence of fleas may be found. Severely affected dogs may itch over their entire bodies, have generalized hair loss, and red inflamed skin. Hot spots are often a result of flea bite allergies.

Flea bite allergy is characterized by being a seasonal allergy that is worse during peak flea times in the summer and fall.
Diagnosis
Diagnosis can be made by visual signs in combination with the presence of fleas or through intradermal skin testing. Intradermal skin testing is a very effective diagnostic tool for this particular allergy, although some false negative results can occur. Since many affected dogs also suffer from other allergies, many times the flea bite antigen is incorporated into a broader intradermal skin testing program.
Treatment
Treatment primarily involves preventing the flea from coming into contact with the dog.
Flea Treatment of Dogs: A number of both topical and oral preparations are available to use as flea control. It is best use an adulticide, which kills the adult fleas, plus an insect growth regulator (IGR) as well. IGRs help to kill immature forms of the flea, preventing them from developing into biting adults. Talk to your veterinarian about what flea product(s) will work for you. In choosing the product(s) your veterinarian will consider the severity of the flea allergy dermatitis, the severity of the flea infestation, how much your dog goes outside, whether there are multiple dogs in the household, how easy it is for you to treat your dog, etc.
Treatment of Environment: Environmental treatment for fleas involves treating the house, outside areas the dog may frequent, and especially sleeping areas of the dog with a product that kills the adults (adulticide) and with an insect growth regulator as well. Another alternative is to use sodium polyborate powder (eg., Fleabusters). Vacuuming, and proper disposal of the cleaner bag are also very beneficial. Other pets in the home should also be treated as they could continue to bring fleas into the environment. While injudicious use of pesticides and growth regulators is never recommended, an effective flea prevention program is much safer and easier than dealing with a full blown flea infestation.
Hyposensitization: Hyposensitization of dogs with a series of injections does not appear to be very effective.

[anonymous]

If the pup has a flea allergy, they are so sensitive, one bite and all hell breaks loose.
The topical is fine, just keep your wife away from handling him for 48 hours, then you can bathe him in a gentle shampoo, then it is okay to touch the area again.
Just remember to treat the environment too, clear out any clutter, wash all bedding in hot water. Professionally clean carpeting.
Ps: Often you will never see the fleas…..
The symptoms you describe are diagnostic. If he has other environmental allergies, time will tell. In the meantime I would try to trust the veterinarian (health care professional that examined him)
You are going to have to start him on flea/tick and heartworm preventatives soon anyway.
The natural solutions are scams, ineffective and a waste of money.
I hope you are not listening to the homeopathic crowd, dangerous stuff.

[anonymous]

The pruritus may be unrelated to the food. It may be caused by environmental allergies, the pollen count is high where I am.
Wipe off his paws with plain water and towel dry when he comes in from outside, especially after walking in grass wet with morning dew.
Bathe once a week in a gentle shampoo such as Sergeant’s fur so fresh puppy.
If it continues, I would go by what your vet suggests.

[anonymous]

I repeat, my advice is to go to a veterinary neurologist, a specialist.

I went to 3 different vets and 2 specialists (veterinary dermatologists) within 1 year before I found a specialist that correctly diagnosed my dog with environmental allergies, she is now stable x 5 years.

Veterinary care has become like our human health care. If you have a serious condition you go to a specialist.

Your dog’s symptoms have absolutely nothing to do with his diet (imo). The symptoms sound neurological and would probably respond to medication.

Ps: If the symptoms are not severe, the ultrasound (to rule out certain conditions) and a Prozac trial sounds reasonable, may be worth a try.

This is not veterinary advice; consult a veterinarian.

[anonymous]

Oh, I forgot to mention. Don’t be fooled by mail in hair and saliva tests, they are not allergy tests. They are bogus.
Also, don’t apply any over the counter remedies to the paws, just wipe them off with a wet towel and dry, this should help.
Ps: If the symptoms continue/become problematic and eventually get diagnosed as environmental allergies. Alert the breeder, as there tends to be a genetic link.

This is not veterinary advice; consult your veterinarian.

[anonymous]

He is too young to be diagnosed…..but it could be environmental allergies, wipe his feet off or rinse with plain water every time he comes in from the outside, especially after coming in from stepping in grass covered with morning dew. Let’s hope the allergies (if that’s what it is) are mild and seasonal.
The only way to rule out food sensitivities would be an elimination diet/prescription food under the guidance of a vet.
Veterinary Dermatologists don’t advise testing until the symptoms have been going on for 1 year/4 seasons or are are severe, and have not responded to treatment by the regular vet.
Wait and see what your vet suggests for food as it may not be related.
What about ProPlan Focus Large Breed puppy https://www.chewy.com/purina-pro-plan-focus-puppy-large/dp/52425

[anonymous]

Yes. Good luck! Did you see the article I posted this morning?
/forums/topic/allergies-and-itchy-dogs/
Hope it helps.
The reason I suggested going to a veterinary dermatologist is that if the vet determines the dog’s allergies are probably environmental, intradermal skin testing is much more accurate and precise than the blood test. And often if the band aid treatments and elimination/prescription food trials don’t work, intradermal skin testing would be the next step prior to allergen specific immunotherapy.

This is not veterinary advice; consult your veterinarian.

[anonymous]

As I told you before, environmental allergies wax and wane. It is impossible for anyone, except a veterinarian that has examined your dog to answer your question.
My posts are getting repetitive as you keep asking the same questions over and over again.
You will not find medical help here or on any other forum.
Go to the vet. Get a diagnosis and see what is recommended.
Peace out.
Ps: Stop it with the over the counter meds.
This is not veterinary advise; consult your veterinarian.

[anonymous]

“Look, I am a complete novice, but it seems the common sense approach is one you have already taken-go back to the iams. If that resolves the problem, then you know it was the other food that was the cause. If not, then proceed accordingly.”

@ Randy D
Apparently, the food changes are not working.
The dermatologist (that treats my dog) told me that most of the time pruritus (itching) is caused by environmental allergies.
The OP’s last post indicates that the dog is still very uncomfortable.
“It’s been 4 days back on his previous food and he’s definitely still itching.”
If it was my dog, depending on the severity of the symptoms, I might take the dog to the vet for a shot of prednisone to stop the suffering.

This is not veterinary advise; consult your veterinarian.

[anonymous]

Pruritus can be very uncomfortable, untreated it can lead to skin infections, ear infections and malaise and sometimes even aggressive behavior.
This subject comes up at least twice a week. Rather than treat the symptoms and change the diet multiple ways. The first step would be to get h1s condition diagnosed by a veterinarian. Atopic dermatitis is often caused by environmental allergies, not the food.
Food sensitivities fluctuate and tend to result in gastrointestinal disturbances rather than pruritus. Food allergies are rare.
Environmental allergies tend to wax and wane, they may be mild and may be treated with prescribed meds such as Apoquel certain times of the year or severe and need year round treatment such as allergen specific immunotherapy (desensitization) which is now available sublingual (by mouth).
I got the best results after going to a veterinary dermatologist. I spent a year going back and forth to the regular vet and didn’t get any answers. Although, they did offer temporary comfort measures. Allergies are complicated, they don’t go away, there is no cure.
However there is effective treatment.

Here is my response to a similar question:
“Have environmental allergies been ruled out? What you describe sounds like that’s what your dog may have vs food sensitivities”.
“They usually start around 1-2 years old and get worse with age. Environmental allergies tend to wax and wane making it almost impossible to tell which foods work or not”.
“Everyone blames the food, but I have found my dog tolerates a lot of different foods since beginning allergen specific immunotherapy (desensitization). The treatment tends to be lifelong, but no more ear infections, rashes, anal gland issues (5 years in)”
“The initial testing, intra dermal skin testing is expensive, maintenance isn’t that bad.
For best results, an accurate diagnosis and treatment options that work, I would make an appointment with a veterinary dermatologist. Allergies are complicated and often require the expertise of a specialist.”
And another:
“When you call for the appointment with the veterinary dermatologist, the office will explain how to prepare the dog for testing, depending on the results of the exam, the specialist may recommend intra dermal skin testing to identify environmental allergies. The expertise of the specialist in interpreting the results is crucial to the treatment he will recommend.
He may want to do a blood test, in my dog’s case we skipped it as he determined the symptoms to be clearly environmental.”
“We were in and out in about an hour with a list of allergies and a course of treatment to begin”.
“Allergen specific immunotherapy, 5 years in and my dog is doing very well, we see the dermatologist once a year”.
“Now, if your dogs allergies are mild/seasonal he may suggest medication certain times of the year instead”.
“Forget about hair and saliva tests they are scams (imo)”
“Ps: Let us know how it goes, I was very pleased with how smoothly the testing went.
They say it may take a while to see results, but I saw improvement right away”

If you click on my avatar and scan “replies created” you will find a multitude of comments I have provided related to allergies.
Ps: I can’t stress this enough. I would not apply anything to the rash, no over the counter meds, creams (nothing) unless recommended by a veterinarian that has examined the dog. Also, too much bathing may make the rash worse.
You can’t treat a condition until you know what it is 🙂

I agree with pitluv, if Iams works, stick with it. Maybe the fish doesn’t agree with him?

This is not veterinary advice; consult your veterinarian.

[anonymous]

The shots, are not medication. Allergen Specific Immunotherapy (desensitization) is the most natural way to treat environmental allergies. It is now available sublingual (by mouth) if you are squeamish about shots.
There is no cure for allergies. However there is treatment, it tends to be lifelong.
Avoidance does not work, it’s impossible. for example, the common house dust mite (common allergen) is around all year round and on the skin of all living things.
For all you know, your dog’s allergies may be mild/seasonal and receptive to medications certain times of the year.
Intradermal skin testing done by a dermatologist is the most accurate way to identify environmental allergens.
I skipped the blood test on the advice of the dermatologist (treatment specific to my dog)
per the search engine
/forums/search/environmental+allergies/
This is not veterinary advice; consult your veterinarian.

[anonymous]

You can use the search engine here to look up environmental allergies.
Until you get the environmental allergies under control, changing the food will make little to no difference.

For the best results make an appointment with a veterinary dermatologist (asap).
If the symptoms have been going on for 1 year 4 seasons without a significant response to treatment by your regular veterinarian, it is time to consult a specialist.

You could ask your veterinarian about an elimination diet/prescription food, if you have not done so already. However, food allergies are rare and food sensitivities fluctuate.
Don’t be fooled by saliva and hair food sensitivity mail-in tests (scams).
If you are receptive to science based veterinary medicine, you may find this site helpful
http://skeptvet.com/Blog/?s=allergies
The veterinary dermatologist will accurately diagnose your dog, then you can evaluate your treatment options. Best of luck.

This is not veterinary advice; consult your veterinarian.

[pitlove]

Hi Randy-

I have an American Staffordshire Terrier who just made 3 in May. You will absolutely love the breed. Really any bull breed is great.

Mine unfortunately is plagued with a lot of the normal skin problems that come with Pit bull type breeds. Food sensitivities and environmental allergies as well. It is possible, but not certain that yours as a rescue could come with those same quirks.

The food that changed my dogs life was Pro Plan Sensitive Skin & Stomach. I find a lot of Pit bull types do well on fish because of the high levels of fatty acids. To me that food has a very balanced protein, fat and calorie level for the activity level you are describing. 26% protein, 16% fat and 447 kcal/cup. Now depending on just how active she is, you may want to consider a performance food like Bully Max, NutriSource Performance or Pro Plans Sport line.

[anonymous]

Go to a Veterinary Dermatologist asap, get an accurate diagnosis and treatment options.

Per the search engine: /forums/topic/i-can-only-find-one-dog-food-my-dogs-allergies-tolerate/

Have environmental allergies been ruled out? What you describe sounds like that’s what your dog may have vs food sensitivities.
They usually start around 1-2 years old and get worse with age. Environmental allergies tend to wax and wane making it almost impossible to tell which foods work or not.
Everyone blames the food, but I have found my dog tolerates a lot of different foods since beginning allergen specific immunotherapy (desensitization). The treatment tends to be lifelong, but no more ear infections, rashes, anal gland issues (5 years in)
The initial testing, intra dermal skin testing is expensive, maintenance isn’t that bad.
For best results, an accurate diagnosis and treatment options that work, I would make an appointment with a veterinary dermatologist. Allergies are complicated and often require the expertise of a specialist.

Evidence Update- Evidence-based Canine Allergy Treatment

[anonymous]

I thought I would bump up this thread. Nutriscan is being talked about in “comments”
I no longer post in comments (by choice)
So I am hoping the folks that are considering buying Nutriscan will see this.
Intradermal skin testing done by a veterinary dermatologist is the most accurate way to identify environmental allergies. There is no cure for allergies but there is effective treatment, often the expertise of a specialist is needed.
Food allergies are rare and food sensitivities tend to fluctuate.
Often a vet will recommend an elimination diet/prescription food to identify food sensitivities.
Also: /forums/topic/suggestions-welcomed/
And if you use the search button you will find more.

[anonymous]

It depends on the dog. My dog with environmental allergies and a sensitive stomach does well on Nutrisca, Salmon and Chickpea , so I don’t change that.
My other dog seems to be able to eat anything, so, I have been trying different kibbles by Natural Balance and mixing it in with the Nutrisca for him, I don’t like that they use a lot of potato, but otherwise it’s okay. I don’t rotate kibble, I stay with one or two brands that agree with the dog.
Toppers change about every 3 or 4 days……depending on what’s marked down at the local market. Again, the freezer comes into use.

[anonymous]

When you call for the appointment with the veterinary dermatologist, the office will explain how to prepare the dog for testing, depending on the results of the exam, the specialist may recommend intra dermal skin testing to identify environmental allergies. The expertise of the specialist in interpreting the results is crucial to the treatment he will recommend.
He may want to do a blood test, in my dog’s case we skipped it as he determined the symptoms to be clearly environmental.
We were in and out in about an hour with a list of allergies and a course of treatment to begin.
Allergen specific immunotherapy, 5 years in and my dog is doing very well, we see the dermatologist once a year.
Now, if your dogs allergies are mild/seasonal he may suggest medication certain times of the year instead.
Forget about hair and saliva tests they are scams (imo)
Ps: Let us know how it goes, I was very pleased with how smoothly the testing went.
They say it may take a while to see results, but I saw improvement right away 🙂

[anonymous]

Well, if your pup turns out to have environmental allergies, diagnosed by a veterinary dermatologist, you may want to advise your family member not to continue breeding the dogs, or at least consult a veterinary health care professional first. Best of luck

[anonymous]

Intradermal skin testing done by a veterinary dermatologist is the most accurate method to identify environmental allergies. Food allergies are rare, the dermatologist told me I could skip the blood test (specific to my dog’s treatment)
The ingredients you have mentioned are impossible to avoid, unless you consult a veterinary nutritionist and have a special made diet recipe. A lot of cross contamination goes on in dog food manufacturing plants.
It may be best to find a vet that you trust and work with him.
Ps: There is no cheap way out of this. Environmental allergies are complicated, there are effective treatments, they tend to be lifelong.

[anonymous]

For best results, consult a veterinary dermatologist. Get the dog properly diagnosed first, then you can evaluate your diet and treatment options.
By any chance was this a pet shop/puppy mill dog? Because a lot of breeders continue to breed dogs that have environmental allergies even though they shouldn’t. There is a genetic link.
I have an allergic dog, she is doing very well under the care of a veterinary dermatologist, sees him once a year. It’s all good. And, she tolerates a variety of foods, but does best on Nutrisca Salmon and Chickpea
Raw made her sick, emergency vet visits and all.

[Donna B]

Thanks for the replies! Winston had allergy bloodwork done through the vet’s office, spectrum labs. Can I assume these are correct? If so, even if I ignore the skin and saliva test, Winston has a number of food allergies (and yes environmental as well) that makes finding food difficult. The Zignature and Canide brands both contain foods that the bloodtest says he is allergic to. His food allergies are:
Peas
Sweet Potatoes
Pork
Soy
Oats
Peanuts
Kelp
Brewer’s yeast

thoughts?

[anonymous]

Have environmental allergies been ruled out? What you describe sounds like that’s what your dog may have vs food sensitivities.
They usually start around 1-2 years old and get worse with age. Environmental allergies tend to wax and wane making it almost impossible to tell which foods work or not.

Everyone blames the food, but I have found my dog tolerates a lot of different foods since beginning allergen specific immunotherapy (desensitization). The treatment tends to be lifelong, but no more ear infections, rashes, anal gland issues (5 years in)
The initial testing, intra dermal skin testing is expensive, maintenance isn’t that bad.

For best results, an accurate diagnosis and treatment options that work, I would make an appointment with a veterinary dermatologist. Allergies are complicated and often require the expertise of a specialist.

[anonymous]

Apoquel is prescribed for environmental allergies, not food allergies (rare) or food sensitivities that tend to fluctuate.
Hair and saliva mail in tests are a scam.
I would suggest that you take your dog to a veterinary dermatologist for testing and an accurate diagnosis and treatment options.
Environmental allergies are complicated, there is no cure but there is effective treatment.
Hope this helps http://skeptvet.com/Blog/?s=Allergies
and check the search engine here for allergies and see my posts,
example. /forums/topic/environmental-allergy-relief/
/forums/search/Dr+Dodds+nutriscan/

[anonymous]

Per the search engine:
/forums/search/environmental+allergies/

[anonymous]

Sounds like environmental allergies. Food will not have an effect. For best results consult a veterinary dermatologist.

[anonymous]

Nutrisca Salmon and Chickpea has no chicken. Check chewy dot com for more info.

PS: You may want to look at Natural Balance Vegetarian, as a base.
BTW: why do you think he is allergic to chicken? Have environmental allergies been ruled out?
Intrademal skin testing by a veterinary dermatologist is the only accurate way to rule out environmental allergies.

[Jenn H]

I also have a dog with severe environmental allergies.
The 1 thing that I have found to work for him in preventing, managing and relieving his symptoms is raw wildflower honey from a beekeeper neighbor. It works best if he starts getting in Feb.
I’ve tried other raw wildflower honeys when I ran out and the closest to home the better.

If/when he is having a reaction (because we ran out of his honey) there’s a whole routine we have to give him relief.

His brother also has these allergies and his people treat it differently with good success.

I can go thru the whole thing if you want. Just let me know.

[Natasha C]

Have you had your dog allergy tested? It could be food allergy but it could also be a storage mite allergy. My dog has storage mite and dust mite allergy. All dry dog food has storage mites so unless you switch to wet, raw or home cooked food he may still have symptoms. Mine had the watery eyes, chronic ear infections and itching. I started cooking his food which helped tremendously. He is on apoquel too which takes care of his dust mite allergy so he stopped the constant paw licking. Also consider using a novel protein. I found after many months that my dog is also allergic to both chicken and beef, but that wasn’t obvious until I addressed his other issues. Allergy testing at least pointed me in the right direction so I could focus on the environmental allergies first and then the food allergies. Good luck!

[anonymous]

Apoquel is prescribed for environmental allergies. If the dog responded to the Apoquel, that’s diagnostic. Apoquel has no effect on food sensitivies or food allergies. Food allergies are rare.
Environmental allergies tend to wax and wane, some allergens are seasonal. Making it almost impossible to tell which food is working best.
Per the search engine /forums/search/allergies/
I would make an appointment with a veterinary dermatologist for the best results to get an accurate diagnosis and effective treatment.
Make sure your dog is drinking water, add a splash or presoak his kibble if he has a sensitive stomach.

• This reply was modified 7 years, 8 months ago by anonymous.

[anonymous]

Yep, environmental allergies tend to wax and wane. Hopefully it’s seasonal/mild and can be managed by medications such as Apoquel certain times of the year, not all year round.
A veterinary dermatologist is best. Good luck
Ps: You could try bathing with a gentle shampoo. I would not apply anything to irritated skin or mess around with over the counter meds (unless your vet says it’s okay) You could make it worse.

[anonymous]

It could be hyperpigmentation. A common symptom of environmental allergies which the other symptoms you mentioned in your first post indicate.
Only further diagnostic testing, preferably by a veterinary dermatologist can answer your questions, as there are several other conditions that could cause this and should be ruled out.
This condition went away after my dog starting allergen specific immunotherapy (desensitization). The discolored skin remains, which is normal. But, no hair loss.
She now tolerates a variety of foods and requires no meds. The ASIT is a natural solution and lifelong treatment.

[Amy W]

I use Malaseb shampoo, twice a week. It is a prescription from our derm vet. (My dog is very yeasty, and allergic to her own yeast… in addition to her other environmental allergies:)

[anonymous]

Your welcome. Yes, there is a genetic link. In fact, the breeder is supposed to stop breeding an animal that has environmental allergies.

For the umpteenth time, the allergen specific immunotherapy solution is all natural! No meds, if it comes to that.
However, the vets have no choice to offer band aid solutions such as steroids, antibiotics and such to stop the suffering and risk of infection.
I have heard positive things about Apoquel, especially if the allergies are mild/seasonal and the dog doesn’t have to be on it year round. Every dog is different. Hope you find something that works.
PS: Once my dogs environmental allergies were under control she now tolerates a variety of foods. I never did the blood test, the dermatologist said it wasn’t necessary (specific to my dog). The intradermal skin testing is the best.

[anonymous]

I tried everything too (times 1 year). The only thing that produced positive results for my dog was going to a veterinary dermatologist, getting intradermal skin testing and starting allergen specific immunotherapy.
Respit is not the same thing, the expertise of the specialist that evaluates and determines the results of the skin testing is crucial.
There is no cheap way out of this. I have posted ad nauseam on this subject, all you have to do is use the search engine here: /forums/search/allergies/

There is no cure for allergies, they are complicated and they get worse with age. However, there is effective treatment.

Ps: Allergen specific immunotherapy is the most natural treatment for environmental allergies.
Stop looking for miracle cures, there are none. If your dog has raw bloody skin and scabs from pruritus, ear infections and such, the regular vet has no choice but to prescribe steroids and such to stop the suffering and risk of infection, temporarily.
Just my experience, hope it helps someone.

[Jazzlover]

I was told labs are a breed w/ lots of allergies. Our almost 4 yr old, male, black lab does have moderately bad environmental allergies (grasses, trees, weeds, dust mites… ) which is no fun for Jazz or us.

I do a fairly good job at managing it, and I have recently gone to one RAW meal per day in hopes to help. What is the worst is the lose of hair under his tail and bottom from bitting. I’m able to remedy for the most part the paws, throat, chin, tummy and ear infections.

I’m looking for success stories for dogs w/ same allergies. I’m seeking a natural cure that will not compromise his health, such as Apolquel, steroids and antibiotics. We did try Respit w/ no success. I’ve also tried a probiotic and enzyme, both w/ rave reviews that did not seem to make a difference. I’ve tried a lot!

Thank you

[Jazzlover]

New to Raw

I’m seeking education from dog owners w/ thriving raw fed dogs.

We have an almost 4yr old male, black lab w/ environmental allergies (all yr around in nor Ca) – Jazz. I recently went raw, one meal (do to cost) – trying Barf World, Lamb to start. And I’m not finding it gross 🙂 Is there a prepared, balanced raw that delivers that is higher quality and ideally lower priced? Eventually I hope to be able to identify a balanced recipe & the ingredients to do it myself.

I’m also looking for wild, sustainably sourced sardines that I can buy in bulk. In hopes to avoid buying canned.

Lastly, supplements (vtms & minerals) that are necessary and have proven healthy benefits for raw feeding. Such as a great sustainably sourced krill oil (not cod), etc.

Thanks for you support!

• This reply was modified 7 years, 8 months ago by Jazzlover. Reason: grammer

[anonymous]

Just curious, how was your dog diagnosed with a chicken allergy? Or are you assuming…..

Nutrisca Salmon and Chickpea may meet your criteria, see chewy dot com for reviews and prices.
Check the search engine “allergies” I have posted a lot of information, maybe you will find something helpful.

Allergies can be broken down into inhalant, contact, or food allergy origins. Flea allergies, grass allergies, and environmental toxin induced allergies are the most common causes of skin conditions in Cairns. Allergies can be chronic or seasonal. They can be minor or severe in occurrence. They tend to become worse with age. Treatment is much better than in bygone days. Environmental controls, antihistamine treatment, and desensitization injections have made huge strides in the last few years”.
“Glucocorticoids should be used only as a last resort due to serious side effects. Diagnosis and treatment of chronic or severe cases by a Board Licensed Veterinary Dermatologist is recommended”.
(excerpt from:) http://cairnterrier.org/index.php/Static/health
This was copied from a site regarding Cairn Terriers, however, the information applies to all dogs (imo)

[Joleen B]

anon101:

Yes, we had extensive allergy testing done including hair samples, skin samples and blood work with a local hollistic vet.

I never even thought about environmental allergies. The testing showed that she is also allergic to flea saliva, dust and grass. We moved from the suburbs with a shady back yard full of pine trees to an acreage with very little trees but lots of grass. (basically a hay field) She hasnt had one break out since moving here, so the environmental allergies makes perfect sense.

My other large dog does well on taste of the wild, so I may start experimenting with that food and see how she does.

Thanks!

[anonymous]

Change in geographical location resulting in a decrease of symptoms indicates that the allergies may be environmental vs food related. What type of allergy testing was done? Please, don’t say mail-in saliva and hair tests.
Did you ever have intradermal skin testing done by a veterinary dermatologist?

My dog that receives treatment from a veterinary dermatologist, but, also has a sensitive stomach, does well on Nutrisca Salmon and Chickpea, Dogswell also has some good kibbles (with and without grains), see chewy dot com I have also heard good things about Purina Pro Plan.
Of course, I only use kibble as a base and add a bite of real food and a splash of water.
Use the search engine here to look up “allergies” for more information.

[anonymous]

What test determined that the dog is allergic to all these foods? Have environmental allergies been ruled out via intradermal skin testing by a veterinary dermatologist?

Nutrisca salmon and chickpea might be worth checking out, however, your list of items to avoid makes it nearly impossible. What does the vet that diagnosed him (assuming) recommend?

[ashley l]

My dog is 3 1/2, just in this last year she has developed skin allergies and since it hasn’t changed since we moved I’m ruling out environmental… so the more I hear about Blue buffalo the more I want to switch her to see if it helps because she is even on meds to help and its not helping. I want to try this Redford Naturals and I’ll come back and post after a few weeks of her eating it. I’m sure she will transition well since they have the salmon and potato and duck and potato like she likes. Thanks for the information…

[anonymous]

Sounds good. Hope that the environmental allergies are mild and not year round.

Ask your vet if a daily fish oil capsule per day would help? Grain free kibble? My dog with environmental allergies had some minor anal gland issues back when. But, as she responded to treatment for environmental allergies by a veterinary dermatologist, they disappeared.

Good luck. Thanks for the feedback.

[Shawn S]

Vet said that since the Benadryl worked, it should be due to environmental allergies. She said Benadryl does not help with food allergies. They recommended that I give it to him for a period of time and then stop and see what happens. Hopefully it will go away in a month or when the season changes.

[anonymous]

Other than consulting a veterinary dermatologist that has examined and done the testing to diagnose your dog. Noone can, nor should they try to give you specific advice as to how to treat your dog.

Also, you may be making matters worse by using OTC medications, supplements, ear drop solutions and such. Not prescribed by an examining veterinarian.

There is effective treatment for environmental allergies but, it tends to be lifelong. Environmental allergies don’t just go away, there is no cure
If you have not had significant results from treatment prescribed by your regular vet and the symptoms have been going on for 1 year/4seasons, I would make an appointment with a specialist.

[Christie]

I’ve pretty much concluded that all of the itching/licking/ear issues aren’t food based. I’ve done elimination tests. During the last bout of issues, I switched immediately to Zignature based on a suggestion in this forum. Neither dog ‘loves; the kibble and I have to add apples and sardines just to get them to eat it. The itching seems better, but I’ve also been treating my dog’s paws with OTC meds that appear to be working, so I don’t know if the food helped or not. I’ve tried a dozen different food brands, mixing up the main proteins, and there doesn’t appear to be a big difference between them. The itching/ear issues just seem to pop up at random.

My dog is American Bulldog/pit mix and I’ve read that they’re just predisposed to itching and ear issues. As long as I catch flareups early in the game, I can usually treat the symptoms.

I read that you can give a dog benedryl for environmental allergies, but I’m always wary of giving them anything made for humans. Is it really safe? My vet always just wants to prescribe general antibiotics to clear the ears but the OTC drops work just as well for a fraction of the cost.

[anonymous]

From a previous post:

Allergies can be broken down into inhalant, contact, or food allergy origins. Flea allergies, grass allergies, and environmental toxin induced allergies are the most common causes of skin conditions in Cairns. Allergies can be chronic or seasonal. They can be minor or severe in occurrence. They tend to become worse with age. Treatment is much better than in bygone days. Environmental controls, antihistamine treatment, and desensitization injections have made huge strides in the last few years”.
“Glucocorticoids should be used only as a last resort due to serious side effects. Diagnosis and treatment of chronic or severe cases by a Board Licensed Veterinary Dermatologist is recommended”.
(excerpt from:) http://cairnterrier.org/index.php/Static/health
This was copied from a site regarding Cairn Terriers, however, the information applies to all dogs (imo)

Example: Have you consulted a veterinary dermatologist? If the allergies are environmental, changing the diet will have very little to do with alleviating the symptoms.
Environmental allergies tend to wax and wane, without getting Intra dermal skin testing done by a specialist (veterinary dermatologist) it’s pretty much impossible to tell what the allergens are, what is working, or not.
And:
What you describe sounds like environmental allergies, food would have little impact, if any, on this condition.
I would continue to work with your veterinarian, however, for best results, I would go to a specialist, a veterinary dermatologist.

Example: /forums/topic/irritated-skin-food-allergy/
/forums/topic/dog-chewing-nails-till-they-bleed/
“Food allergies are rare. Food sensitivities tend to result in GI disturbances such as vomiting and diarrhea. Environmental allergies tend to show up as pruritus, ear infections and such”.
“You could try a limited ingredient grain free food. My dog does well on Nutrisca Salmon and Chickpea. Wipe down her feet with water and gently dry when she comes in from outdoors”.
“Bathe her using a gentle shampoo, I use Malaseb (see chewy dot com).
I tried all kinds of things times 1 year (including going back and forth to the veterinarian), but, did not get results till I took her to a dermatologist for testing. Allergen specific immunotherapy worked in her case”.
Unfortunately, steroids and such are often necessary (for brief periods) to stop the suffering and prevent infection.
Allergen specific immunotherapy is the most natural treatment.
Also, I have heard that some dogs do well on apoquel, you may want to consider talking to to your vet about that.