Food sensitivities
Food sensitivities, while often suspected, are less common in dogs. When they do occur, proteins such as chicken, beef, or dairy are usually the culprits.
Diagnosis and management of food sensitivities requires feeding a low-allergen diet. Hill's Prescription Diet z/d is an excellent choice for dogs with food sensitivities. It is formulated with hydrolysed proteins that are broken down into small pieces, preventing the immune system from recognising them as allergens. This helps avoid adverse food reactions and therefore reduce the associated itching.
Environmental and food sensitivities
Some dogs may suffer from both environmental and food sensitivities, and so require a food which addresses both.
Hill's Prescription Diet Derm Complete is specially formulated to support environmental and food sensitivities. As well as containing a blend of ingredients to support the skin barrier against environmental irritants, it is made with a single, novel animal protein, egg, to help avoid adverse food reactions.
Compliance and consistency are key
For dogs with allergies or sensitivities, consistency is critical when feeding a specialised diet. These diets must be followed strictly, often for the dog's entire life, and other foods should be avoided.
Having both dry and wet food options helps ensure that pets enjoy their meals and stay on track. Wet food can offer added moisture, which is especially beneficial for dogs that need more hydration, and variety in texture can help prevent mealtime boredom.
By selecting the right food and maintaining consistency, pet owners can help reduce their dog's itching and scratching, leading to a comfortable and happy life for their pet.
For any concerns regarding dog skin health, it is important to seek veterinary advice regarding the best treatment options. Prescription Diet foods should only be fed as directed by a veterinarian.