As a responsible dog owner, you will go to great lengths to ensure the health and well-being of your four-legged friend. This includes finding the most nutritious food possible. However, just like humans, dogs can suffer from food allergies that can lead to uncomfortable symptoms and impact their overall health. Fortunately, you can purchase dog food that’s designed specifically for dogs with allergies.
Buying hypoallergenic dog food can help to manage and alleviate allergic reactions in dogs. At Hilltop Pet Food, our entire range of dry dog food is hypoallergenic and it’s suitable for a wide variety of dogs. Below we have explored what hypoallergenic dog food is and listed some common allergens that affect dogs.
What is Hypoallergenic Dog Food?
Simply put, hypoallergenic dog food is specially designed to contain fewer substances known to trigger allergies. If your dog experiences nasty side effects when eating specific foods, hypoallergenic dog food is an easy way to adapt their diet and keep them healthy. However, it's important to note that "hypoallergenic" does not mean "allergen-free." The food will minimise the risk of allergic reactions, but can’t promise to eliminate them entirely.
Common Allergens and Their Impact on Dogs
When it comes to allergies in dogs, a few ingredients are more common than others. Knowing what these are can help you to make an informed choice when purchasing dog food for your furry friend. Some common allergens include;
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Protein Sources - Beef, chicken and lamb are often used as the main protein source in commercial dog foods. Unfortunately, these are also common causes of protein allergies in dogs, leading to symptoms like itchy skin and gastrointestinal upset.
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Grains - Grains like corn are often added to dog food as a source of carbohydrates. However, some dogs may be allergic to these grains, resulting in common issues such as diarrhoea and vomiting.
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Wheat and Wheat Gluten - Closely related to grains but worthy of separate mention, wheat and wheat gluten are often used as binding agents in dog food. Allergic reactions can manifest as skin irritations and digestive issues.
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Dairy - Some dogs are lactose intolerant and may suffer from abdominal pain, bloating and diarrhoea when consuming dairy products. A sensitisation to lactose, a sugar found in milk, can also affect the skin and coat.
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Artificial Additives - Synthetic colours, preservatives and flavours can be problematic for some dogs, and they’re frequently found in dry dog food. These artificial additives can cause allergic reactions like skin irritations or digestive issues.
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Soya - This plant-based protein source is commonly used in food for dogs as an alternative to meat but can sometimes cause allergies. Symptoms often include itching and loss of appetite.
Recognising the different allergens your dog might be sensitive to is the first step in providing them with a healthy, balanced diet that doesn't upset their stomach or cause other problems. You should always consult your vet if you’re worried about your dog and they can help you to improve your dog’s diet in line with their specific needs.
Hilltop Pet Food’s Hypoallergenic Dog Food
At Hilltop Pet Food, we know how much of an impact these common allergens can have on dogs. So, we supply a range of dry dog food that is hypoallergenic to minimise the risk of allergic reactions. Our dog food is expertly formulated with the highest quality, natural ingredients. Every flavour of food is rich in essential vitamins and minerals, and free from artificial colours and preservatives. Hilltop Shop food is designed to help dogs with sensitive digestive tracts maintain a healthy immune system and promote better overall health and well-being.
You can easily see the ingredients used in each bag of dog food on our website, so you know whether it’s right for your dog’s needs. Our limited-ingredient formulas contain only the essential nutrients too, making it easier to avoid unnecessary reactions.
Best Hypoallergenic Dog Food in the UK
Taking care of a dog with food allergies can be challenging, but hypoallergenic dog food can make things much easier. By avoiding common allergens, hypoallergenic dog food provides a convenient solution for sensitive dogs. If you want to buy hypoallergenic dog food in the UK, visit the Hilltop Pet Food website today.
You can purchase directly via our website knowing that no matter which flavour of food you choose, your four-legged friend will be getting the nutrients they need without suffering common allergic reactions. We provide pet owners with a reliable option to maintain their dog’s health and we will happily answer any questions you have about our food.