Food allergies are not uncommon. Like us humans, our pets too can develop food allergies. Not only that, but food allergies in dogs are also in fact fairly common. If you’ve ever noticed your dog incessantly scratching an itch or wheezing, you might want to keep tabs on what you feed them. Other signs of allergy dogs exhibit are poor coat quality, ear infections that won’t go away, vomiting, and diarrhea. Here are some of the most prevalent causes of food allergies in dogs you should know about

Dairy
Although dogs seem to be very fond of their bowl of milk and are quick at gulping it down, it isn’t doing them good. Like in humans, lactose intolerance is prevalent in dogs too. Both lactose intolerant and dairy allergic dogs present with symptoms like diarrhea, gastrointestinal distress, and vomiting. Similar symptoms make it difficult to differentiate between the two. However, in the case of dairy as one of the common causes of food allergies, your dog will also show signs such as skin rashes and itching. If your pet is often fed dairy products, make sure to keep an eye out for these signs and reduce their intake if possible.

Eggs
Oftentimes dogs are served eggs as a reliever for an upset stomach. Eggs, when cooked and consumed, have little potential to cause harm. However, when eggs are uncooked or undercooked, they have the ability to wreak havoc. As shocking as it seems, this food item truly is one of the most common causes of food allergies in dogs. Sure your dog will never say no to an egg, but sometimes you will have to learn to say no to your four-legged loved one.

Beef
Both cats and dogs are dependent on protein as their major source of energy, unlike us humans that use carbs for it. To fill in on their energy requirements most packaged foods contain chicken or beef as the primary protein source. However, beef also is a common cause of allergy in dogs and that makes feeding them with packaged meals a little tricky. Try finding healthy protein-sourced dog food that does not contain beef if your dog is allergic to it. Also keep in mind, that the use of the same food for long periods of time can also lead to allergy development in your pet.

Lamb
It is easier to stay unaware if your dog is allergic to lamb, as almost all packaged dog foods are made of chicken or beef as their protein source. Lamb too, just like chicken and beef is a healthy and rich source of proteins and is also one of the commonly occurring causes of food allergies in dogs. If you are a new pet parent, it is advisable that you try feeding your dog with small portions of the packaged food and keep a stringent eye out for any sign and symptoms of allergic reactions.