Hey there, Doodle Owners! Elina here. Is your pup constantly scratching, biting, or licking their skin? Or maybe you've noticed they have recurring ear infections or gastrointestinal issues? If so, your Doodle might just have a food allergy to chicken.
Allergies in Doodle's are pretty common, with chicken being one of the most common allergens. A food allergy occurs when your Doodle's immune system overreacts to the proteins found in chicken. When your dog consumes chicken or foods containing chicken, their immune system triggers an allergic response.
By the end of this article If you'll be able to understand, identify, and manage a potential chicken allergy.
Chicken Allergy Symptoms
Skin Irritations
- Itching, especially if persistent or intense
- Redness, especially on the belly, paws, or ears
- Hair loss
- Hot spots (acute moist dermatitis)
First, if you notice your Doodle has itchy skin and is biting and licking excessively (especially after eating chicken), this is a good indicator of a chicken allergy. Redness, rashes, or itching are common on paws, ears, and face.
Gastrointestinal Issues
- Vomiting
- Diarrhea
- Bloating and gas
Some of the common signs of gastrointestinal issues are vomiting, gas, and diarrhea. These symptoms, combined with skin irritations, can significantly impact your Doodle's quality of life.
What to Do If You Think Your Doodle Has A Chicken Allergy
Elimination Diet
Remove all chicken and chicken-based products from your Doodle's diet. This includes treats and table scraps that might contain chicken. You can feed your pup other protein sources such as lamb, fish, or venison.
Observation Period
Closely monitor your Doodle for several weeks after eliminating chicken. Look for improvements in their symptoms. If the itching subsides and their overall condition gets better, it's a good indication that chicken was the problem.
Please note that it can take anywhere from a few weeks to a couple of months for all symptoms to fully subside after removing chicken from your Doodle's diet. Patience is key and gradual improvement is a positive sign that you're on the right track.
Optional: If you want to confirm that this is a chicken allergy, talk to your vet about reintroducing a small amount of chicken back into your dog's diet. If the symptoms return, this is a clear sign that chicken is causing the allergic reaction.
Veterinary Consultation
For more severe cases, consult with your veterinarian. They might recommend allergy tests or provide specific advice based on your Doodle's health history.
What to Feed Your Allergic-To-Chicken Doodle?
Alternative Protein Sources
If you've confirmed that your Doodle is allergic to chicken you can onsider switching to other protein sources such as:
- Lamb
- Fish
- Turkey
Homemade Diet
Although a homemade diet takes more time to prepare, it allows you to control every ingredient. Before beginning the "homemade diet journey", please consult your veterinarian or a canine nutritionist to ensure your Doodle receives all necessary nutrients.
Raw Food Diet
Raw diets often consist of unprocessed proteins, which can be easier for some Doodles to digest. These diets typically include raw meat, bones, fruits, and vegetables. Potential benefits include improved digestion, healthier skin and coat, and increased energy levels.
If you plan to switch to a raw diet, please know that a raw diet also comes with risks, such as potential bacterial contamination. If you're thinking about making a switch to a raw diet, please consult with your vet as this needs to be a very gradual change. They can help ensure the diet is balanced and safe for your Doodle.
Managing Your Doodle's Chicken Allergy Long-Term
Once you've identified and started managing your Doodle's chicken allergy, always carefully check ingredients labels. Chicken can be present in unexpected products and treats.
Recommended Chicken-Free Dog Treats
Here is a list of my favorite Chicken-Free Dog Treats. Most are single-ingredient alternative protein sources.
Conclusion
While a chicken allergy can be frustrating to deal with, once you identify and eliminate chicken from your Doodle's diet, it is straighforward to manage long term. By feeding a chicken-free diet, your Doodle's symptoms will subside and he/she will go back to their normal, happy, playful self.
Remember, every Doodle is unique, and what works for one might not work for another. The key is to pay careful attention to your Doodle's reactions and needs and discuss with your vet when needed.
Comment below and let me know what your favorite chicken-free foods are!
