What are the most common food allergies for dogs?

The most common food allergies for dogs are often caused by proteins. Such proteins include dairy, beef, chicken, chicken eggs, soy, or wheat gluten. Each time a pet eats food containing these substances, the antibodies react with the antigens, and symptoms occur. In a 2016 study done by Mueller, et al., it was shown that in the 297 dogs he studied, 34% were allergic to beef and 15% were allergic to chicken, the number 1 and 2 allergies in dogs. 

How do I know what my dog is allergic to?

Symptoms of allergies in dogs include skin issues such as hives, tummy troubles, swollen face, and chronic ear and paw infections. Food allergies in dogs are best diagnosed through an elimination diet, and must not include any food your dog has eaten before. If your dog's allergy symptoms resolve while on the food trial, the next step is to perform a food challenge by re-introducing your dog's old food. If your dog's symptoms resolve with the food trial AND return within one week of a food challenge, your dog likely has a food allergy. There are additional blood tests that can be done in order to indicate specific food allergies, and these can be done by your vet.

What foods are best for dogs with allergies?

For dogs with allergies, the best types of food for them are going to be either limited ingredient diets, or hypoallergenic diets. Hypoallergenic dog food and treats are made with protein that’s been “split” into its basic nutrient building blocks. Your dog's antibodies do not recognize these proteins as being antigens, and therefore are less likely to cause an allergic reaction. The three hypoallergenic ingredients that Chippin uses are fiber-rich human-grade cricket protein, silver copi, which is a top-feeding, vegetarian-eating fish, and the blue green algae, spirulina. These proteins are all super nutritious, tasty, and natural pre and probiotics!

Sources:

https://www.richellusa.com/the-most-common-dog-allergens-and-how-to-avoid-them/#:~:text=Unfortunately%2C%20just%20like%20humans%2C%20a,and%202%20years%20of%20age. 

https://vcahospitals.com/know-your-pet/food-allergies-in-dogs#:~:text=%22The%20most%20common%20food%20allergens,the%20antigens%2C%20and%20symptoms%20occur. 

https://www.dogfoodadvisor.com/best-dog-foods/hypoallergenic-dog-foods/