Symptoms of a dairy allergy in dogs can include vomiting, diarrhea, excessive licking, scratching or biting of the skin, as well as hives or other skin irritation. Other symptoms include sneezing, coughing, and a runny nose.
A dairy allergy in dogs is caused by an immune system response to the proteins found in milk, cheese, and other dairy products. The digestive system of affected dogs can become irritated, leading to digestive issues, as well as other symptoms. The proteins in milk can also cause an allergic reaction at the skin level, leading to hives or other skin irritation.
The diagnosis of a dairy allergy in dogs usually begins with a physical exam and review of the patient’s medical history. The veterinarian might then recommend blood tests, skin tests, or other diagnostic measures to confirm the diagnosis. In some cases, elimination diets and food challenges may need to be done to rule out other potential causes of the pet’s symptoms.
A dairy allergy in dogs has the potential to be very serious, as it may lead to anaphylactic shock. Without proper treatment, the mortality rate for this allergy is high. If the allergy is not treated quickly, it can cause difficulties in breathing, shock, and even death.
The treatment of a dairy allergy in dogs typically involves avoiding contact with dairy products and eliminating them from the dog’s diet. Medication such as antihistamines may be used to reduce the severity of symptoms, and topical treatments such as shampoos or ointments may be prescribed to reduce skin irritation. In severe cases, steroid medications or subcutaneous immunotherapy may also be used.
To prevent a dairy allergy from affecting your dog, avoid feeding them dairy products, as well as any other foods that contain dairy. It is important to read labels carefully when purchasing food for your pet, as many products contain hidden sources of dairy. Additionally, limit your dog’s exposure to dairy products, such as milk, butter or cheese, that can be found in the environment. If your pet is in contact with someone eating dairy foods, make sure that they are dried off after and their skin is kept clean. Finally, if your pet is exhibiting any signs of an allergic reaction, contact your veterinarian immediately.
The allergy itself is not contagious; however, if an allergic reaction is triggered in one dog, it can be triggering for nearby dogs that may have the same allergy. It is also possible for humans to experience a reaction to a dog with an allergy; for instance, if someone has an allergy to a particular dander or allergen found in the dog’s saliva, they can experience similar symptoms of an allergic reaction.
Dairy allergies in dogs are often confused with food allergies or food sensitivities. Food allergies can present with similar symptoms including itching and vomiting, and are caused by an overreaction of the immune system to certain proteins found in foods.
Home remedies for food allergies may include eliminating certain ingredients from the dog’s diet or switching to a novel protein diet. In addition, probiotics and omega-3 fatty acid supplements may help with symptom management.
While home remedies for food allergies in dogs can provide relief, it’s important to remember that they are not a guaranteed solution and that it is best to consult a veterinarian for diagnosis and advice on treatment options.
Some dog breeds that can be vulnerable to dairy allergies include Pugs, Bulldogs, Chihuahuas, and Shih Tzus. These breeds may have sensitivities to the proteins, fats, and/or carbohydrates found in dairy products. Symptoms may include vomiting, diarrhea, itchy skin, and/or allergies, depending on the severity of the allergy. As always, you should contact your veterinarian if you suspect your dog has an allergy or sensitivity.
Have you ever had to deal with dairy allergy symptoms in your dog? If so, how did they respond to the symptoms? How did their behavior change? What did you do to help them manage the allergy?
It’s never easy to witness our beloved fur babies going through such a discomforting experience. If you’ve gone through this, know that you are not alone. All pet owners must do their best to help their animals get through such difficult times. At the end of the day, we can only strive to be there for our pets. Wishing you and your furry pal the best of luck!
