Your dog’s itchiness is driving you crazy. You are worried about them damaging their ears and paws as they seem very itchy. You might also be seeing a red stomach and excessive shedding, their coat might smell and you might have seen patches.
Unless you’re in pollen season, and the reason isn’t strictly linked to this seasonality, the solution might be a simple one.
- FOOD. Do this with me. Turn the back of your dog’s bag of food and LOOK AT THE INGREDIENTS.
Cereals, wheat, barley, maize, rice, meat and animal derivatives, pea starches, too much potato content…are ingredients that are directly linked to skin irritation. Most ultra-processed dry foods (even the grain free or hypoallergenic), cooked at very high temperatures are the very source of the problem.
Dogs can’t process such vast amounts of carbohydrates as they do not have the same salivary amylase us omnivores possess to break down carbs.
The solution? A high meat, carb limited diet.
Pick a single protein source (turkey, salmon, venison) and ONLY feed the dog that protein source. Do not give the dog any other treats and make sure they have enough moisture in their diet.
It’s important you turn the bag of food over and closely examine the ingredient list. Don’t trust the vet when they hand you a bag of food at premium prices. Just look at the ingredients.
The first 2-3 ingredients should be animal proteins. The ingredients should read ‘’fresh chicken, deboned turkey meat, fresh caught salmon…’’.
Any carbohydrates should be low glycemic ones, such as oats, sweet potatoes or selected legumes.
If you are unsure and need help, please ring 01642 903650 or pop in store for a free consultation about nutrition.
2. Fleas, ticks or mites. If you find these delights on your dog’s skin, try to remove them naturally. Oatmeal shampoo, a gentle bath and a rake comb can really go a long way. Rinse and repeat.
3. Wipe their nose and paws with water after each walk can reduce any seasonal grass allergies.
4. Omega 3 foods. Sprats, salmon, fish skin, mackerel, and to a certain extent salmon oil (we prefer the food over the supplement). They all have Omega 3’s which are anti-inflammatory in nature.
If you are unsure and need help, please ring 01642 903650 or pop in store for a free consultation about nutrition.