Dog Gas & Allergy Problem
Food allergies in dogs cause many symptoms, primarily skin problems, itching and foot-licking. Gas might be an allergy symptom, but it is more likely a sign of food intolerance and easier to treat.
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Types of Allergies
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Dogs can be allergic to airborne irritants, fleas and food. True food allergies are relatively uncommon (see References 1 and 3) and usually manifest in skin problems, ear and skin infections and hair loss. Increased bowel movements and gas are less common food allergy symptoms (see Reference 3).
Food Allergy vs. Intolerance
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When the only symptoms your dog has is gas, along with increased bowel movements and possibly vomiting, it is more likely to be a food intolerance or sensitivity (see References 2 and 3).
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Dietary Changes
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Sometimes switching to another brand of kibble with different ingredients cures the gas problem. If you feed a raw or cooked diet, it is even easier to customise what you feed. If this doesn't work, talk to your veterinarian about hypo-allergenic foods.
Home Remedies
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Other remedies for gas include giving your dog probiotic supplements and digestive enzymes. Yogurt rich in active cultures can also work, as long as your dog isn't lactose intolerant (see Reference 2).
Other Causes for Gas
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If your dog's gas is persistent, ask your vet about other gastrointestinal causes. This could be as simple as parasites or as potentially serious as pancreatic problems (see Reference 2).
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References
- Photo Credit Stevie MacDonald
