If you’ve just adopted a new dog, it might be surprising to learn that just like us, they are allergic to certain foods. In fact, food allergies are common health problems in dogs. The tricky part is diagnosing them because sometimes food allergies can cause the same symptoms as environmental allergies in dogs. Identifying them is crucial to give proper treatment to the dog. Herein, we discuss the common signs that can help determine if your dog is suffering from food allergies.

Itchy Skin

Itchy skin, also known as allergic dermatitis, is one of the most prevalent symptoms of food allergies in dogs. It can happen in any part of the dog’s body and can make them feel irritated. Typically, itchy skin occurs in and around ears, paws, rear end, and stomach. So, if you notice your dog persistently scratching in one or more of these body parts, it may be a sign that they are allergic to foods you’re feeding them.

Hives

They appear as itchy red bumps on the dog’s body within 24 hours of having eaten allergic foods. They are easily visible if your dog has short hair. But if your dog has long hair, you have to thoroughly check for bumps. If your dog has developed hives, then they’ll probably keep scratching, biting, and licking the affected areas continuously. All this scratching can lead to hair loss and open skin, which can cause infections if left untreated.

Chronic Ear Infections

If your dog requires ear infections treatment for more than two or three times in a year, then it’s a symptom of a food allergy. Ear infections from food allergy can last throughout the year. They must not be confused with yeast infections, ear mites, and swimmer’s ears in dogs. Ear infections can make dog’s ears smell and appear full of yeast with black or brown build-up. Dogs with an ear infection tend to persistently shake heads and scratch ears.

Red, Brown, or Bronze Nail Beds

The change in the color of the nail bed is the sign of an inflammatory immune response and is pretty obvious in dogs with white nails, like Boxers, Dalmatians, and Bulldogs. If your dog is allergic to certain types of your food you’re feeding them, then their nail beds may turn red, brown, or red-brown, and may even appear bloody red. Nails of some dogs are sensitive, and they may tend to itch or lick them frequently.

Watery Eyes

Food, and sometimes environmental, allergies may manifest as teary eyes in your dogs. Such dogs may scratch and rub their eyes often, have goopy discharge, or a blocked tear duct. This may also cause eye irritation.

Stomach Problems

This is yet another common symptom of food allergies in dogs. Food allergies may lead to a gastrointestinal upset and can cause vomiting, diarrhea, excess gas, and even weight loss.