Have you noticed your dog constantly itching, scratching, or chewing at their paws? Or maybe they’re dealing with red, irritated skin? These are all possible signs of food allergies. According to our Board Certified Veterinary Nutritionist, beef and poultry are among the most common food allergens for dogs.

Treating a beef allergy in dogs often begins with dietary adjustment. Replacing beef with novel, gut-healthy protein sources like cricket, spirulina or Silver carp is a great way to help manage food sensitivities.

How to Tell If Your Dog Is Allergic to Beef

Food allergies in dogs show up in some obvious, and not so obvious ways. If you notice these symptoms after feeding your dog beef, it may be time to consider adjusting your dog's diet.

Here are some common signs that may signal your dog is allergic to beef:

Digestive Issues in Dogs: Vomiting, diarrhea, or excessive gas may indicate your dog has a beef allergy. These issues can be ongoing or flare up periodically when beef is consumed.

Tears Stains on Fur: If your dog has reddish-brown “tear stains” on their fur, it may be a food allergy. This issue is caused by porphyrin—an iron-containing molecule secreted in tears. If your dog is allergic to beef or other ingredients, excessive tear production can stain the fur as it dries.

Excessive Paw Licking: If your dog is chronically licking their paws, they may be dealing with allergies. You may also notice that their paw fur is stained reddish-brown. The same molecule that causes tear staining is present in saliva, so excessive paw licking can cause fur discoloration. This behavior can sometimes lead to secondary infections if left unaddressed. Consider switching the protein in their diet to see if this behavior subsides.

Chronic Ear Infections: Frequent ear infections can be a sign that your dog is allergic to beef or another ingredient in their diet. Symptoms of ear infections include redness, swelling, head shaking, and unusual odors coming from the ears. Allergies can create an environment conducive to yeast or bacteria overgrowth, leading to recurring infections. If your dog experiences these symptoms often, consider switching to a novel protein diet and consult your veterinarian for tailored advice.

Skin Issues and Hot Spots: Food allergies often lead to itching and irritation, causing your dog to scratch persistently. Over time, this can result in hair loss, redness, or the development of hot spots. These hot spots are irritated areas of skin caused by excessive scratching or licking. Transitioning your dog to a novel protein may help soothe their skin and reduce irritation.

Respiratory Symptoms: While less common, symptoms like sneezing, coughing, or difficulty breathing could be related to a food allergy. In severe cases, you may notice swelling around the face or muzzle.

What to Do If Your Dog Is Allergic to Beef

If your dog exhibits these symptoms, they may have a beef allergy. Here are a few ways you can help:

1. Eliminate Beef From Their Diet: Remove all sources of beef from your dog’s diet, including treats, food, and table scraps. When shopping, make sure to check ingredient labels closely—beef, beef meal, or byproducts can be listed under various names.

2. Switch to Novel Protein Sources: Transition your dog to foods and treats made with novel proteins like cricket, or Silver carp. Cricket is a natural prebiotic fiber that helps nourish the microbiome, improving digestion and making it more digestible than chicken or beef, making it an excellent option for dogs with sensitive stomachs.

3. Monitor Their Response: As you introduce new proteins, monitor your dog’s symptoms. Consulting your veterinarian can provide additional guidance on managing food allergies and ensuring a balanced diet.

What can I feed my dog instead of beef?

Cricket protein is one novel protein option that is easy to digest for sensitive pups. This small but mighty protein packs a powerful, nutrient dense punch! Cricket contains all 10 essential amino acids dogs need to thrive, is rich in omega-3s to soothe itchy skin, and is a natural prebiotic fiber that helps to support a healthy microbiome and improve digestion. 

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