Food allergies in dogs can manifest in various ways, affecting different systems of the body. The most common symptoms are related to skin issues. Dogs may experience intense itching (pruritus), leading to excessive scratching, biting, or licking of the skin, particularly around the face, paws, ears, and underbelly. This can result in redness, brown tear stains, inflammation, and even hair loss in affected areas. Skin rashes, hives, or hot spots may develop.
Ear problems are also frequent, with dogs experiencing recurrent ear infections, often accompanied by redness, swelling, and a foul odor. Gastrointestinal symptoms are another hallmark of food allergies. These can include vomiting, diarrhea, excessive gas, and abdominal discomfort. Some dogs may experience a loss of appetite or weight loss.
Respiratory symptoms, though less common, can occur, including coughing, wheezing, or nasal discharge. In some cases, dogs may exhibit behavioral changes such as increased irritability or lethargy. It's important to note that these symptoms can be similar to those caused by environmental allergies or other health issues, so a proper diagnosis from a veterinarian is crucial. Chronic or recurrent symptoms, especially those that don't respond to other treatments, may indicate a food allergy.