Caring For Elkhounds with Allergies

You may have noticed your Norwegian Elkhound pups displaying some symptoms that make you think that they may be having allergies like watery discharges, itching, coughing, sneezing, and you’re thinking, “Does my dog have allergies?”

What are the signs of allergies in dogs?

Dog allergies refer to when your dog develops an overactive or hypersensitive immune system response to foreign substances, aka allergens. This response often ends up harming your dog more than it helps. Whether it’s from the diet or the environment, dog allergies are quite common.

Therefore, there’s a good chance your furry friends might have allergies if these symptoms exist:

• Runny nose
• Watery eyes
• Sneezing
• Itchy or flaky skin
• Respiratory congestion
• Hair loss Itching
• Scratching one or both their ears and shaking their heads
• Constant licking of their paws
• Patchy skin

If you’ve just found out that your pup has allergies, or you’ve got yourself a new pup and are worried about their health, we’ve got you covered. We will help provide you with detailed information on how you can take care of pups with allergies.

Best Food for Dogs with Allergies

 

Most food allergies for dogs result in various symptoms, including skin conditions like facial swelling, hives, itchiness, vomiting, diarrhea, or even anaphylaxis. The best dog food for allergies contains proteins that have been chemically split to form the essential amino acids’ building blocks.

“A diet based on hydrolyzed protein for dogs helps overcome the problem of allergies. When dogs sustain allergic reactions to foods or anything else, they can suffer from various respiratory disorders like asthma and even skin related problems like itching and rashes. A hydrolyzed protein diet helps dogs overcome these allergies.” (source: https://comeonspurs.com/guide-to-hydrolyzed-protein-diet-for-dogs-everything-you-need-to-know)

Doing this makes the proteins ‘invincible’ to the dog’s immune system preventing an allergic reaction. Some of the best hypoallergenic dog food that has been manufactured to avoid allergic reactions in dogs include:

• Purina Pro Plan Veterinary Diets HA Chicken Flavor
• Merrick Limited Ingredient Diet Turkey and Rice Dog Food
• Royal Canin Veterinary Diets Hydrolyzed Protein Adult HP

Are Dog Supplements Effective In Combating Allergies?

In addition to providing your dog with the best foods that can help minimize their allergies, there are some supplements that you could give your pooch to help them combat allergic reactions.

Here is a list of supplements that most veterinarians have recommended.

Salmon Oil & Food with Salmon for Treating Dog Allergies

 

Salmon oil contains omega-three and omega-six fatty acids known to help ease skin allergies in dogs. The supplement comprises DHA, ALA, and EPA, known for helping improve brain development and fighting free radicals.

Salmon oil can help reduce inflammations in your dog’s stomach and intestines. It’s also been known to help manage dog allergies by strengthening your dog’s skin, thus creating a stronger barrier against allergens preventing aggressive allergic reactions.

Salmon oil also helps boost your dog’s coat development by providing it with the best ingredients to grow soft, shiny, and healthy. Dog food with salmon is also a great option if your pup prefers a food option over a liquid supplement.

Omega 3 for Dog’s Allergies

 

Omega 3 fatty acids, also called EPA and DHA, contained in fish oil, have been known to calm inflammatory reactions in dogs. The omega-three fatty acids reduce the levels of histamines produced by the body’s white blood cells during an allergic reaction.

Omega 3 for dogs helps to reduce the itching and scratching effects in dogs during an allergy attack. They also help cool the inflamed, red skin helping your dog heal more quickly. However, please avoid fish oil products with excessive vitamin D since they may be unsafe for your dog.

CBD Oil for Dog’s Allergies

CBD oil, an extract of the cannabis plant, contains several healing properties that could help provide your dog with healing properties. A 2018 study found out that CBD was completely safe for dogs and could relieve allergic symptoms.

CBD oil works by connecting with cannabinoid receptors in your dog’s brain helps to reduce allergic reactions, reduces pain associated with allergic reactions (inflammation), and helps your pup become less anxious. However, ensure that you use high-quality CBD oil for dogs that have undergone 3rd party lab tests for potency and safety.

What to look for when selecting shampoo for your Elkhounds

Here are some tips to help you when selecting the right shampoo for your Elkhounds suffering from itchy skin & hot spots:

• Avoid any shampoo with harsh chemicals, peroxide, and parabens that may irritate your dog’s skin
• Choose a shampoo with hydrating ingredients
• Opt for aloe-based or oatmeal shampoos
• If you can, go for a medicated shampoo formulated for dog’s itchy and sensitive skin
• Choose a shampoo that has the proper skin pH
• Read carefully the list of ingredients and check for possible allergic reactions

Helping Your Elkhounds Cope With Allergies

A dog is a man’s best friend, and taking care of them during their most challenging moment can seem tricky, especially for first-time dog owners. However, our article helps provide you with the best information and tips on how you could help ease their allergies and prevent further epidermal irritations.

It would be best to follow the instructions of a veterinarian or consult them whenever you feel unsure about any information, especially when it comes to medications. Have fun taking care of your dog, and I hope you spend many more lovely years together.