Q & A

Allergies affect up to half of the American dog population, making daily life uncomfortable and paving the way for other serious medical conditions. Often, they don’t go away on their own. Your dog needs veterinary care and, more importantly, an environment that doesn’t trigger its allergies. Your dog’s immune system is partly responsible for this condition. An allergy, according to the Veterinary Centers of America (VCA), occurs when its immune system overreacts to a substance called an allergen. When your dog is exposed to an allergen, its immune system thinks it’s a threat, even though allergens are usually harmless. The immune system responds by releasing histamines, which cause itching, swelling, redness and other allergy symptoms. Types of Allergies Among Dogs The allergens determine the type of allergies your dog has. Food Allergies. An estimated 10% of cases are food allergies. These involve a certain protein or carbohydrate in the food that triggers the immune system’s response. It’s different from food intolerance, where your dog’s body doesn’t process certain food types, leading to gastrointestinal problems. A 2017 study published in the journal BMC Veterinary Research enumerated the top food allergens among dogs: Beef (34% of participants were affected) Dairy products (17%) Chicken (15%) Wheat (13%) Lamb (5%) Flea or Insect Bite Allergies This is the immune system’s over-response to the sting or bite of an insect. If the culprits are fleas, it goes by the name flea allergies. If other insects or arachnids cause the reaction, it’s called insect bite allergies. Allergens include the bites of blackflies, mosquitoes, ants, bees, hornets, wasps, spiders and ticks. The bites or stings trigger severe local itching. As a result, the dog bites and scratches the area vigorously, removing large amounts of hair and leaving them vulnerable to infection. In fact, a single flea bite can set off an allergic reaction that lasts weeks. Atopic Allergies Around 15% of dogs experience atopic allergies, which is caused by substances that your dog inhales. Breeds like the Terrier, Retriever, Dalmatian, Maltese, English Bulldog, and Shar Pei are likely to develop this condition. Main allergens include: Tree pollen (e.g., Ash, Oak, and Cedar) Weed and grass pollens Molds and mildew House dust mites You’ll know if your dog is allergic to pollen because symptoms will show up seasonally. On the other hand, dogs that are allergic to dust mites, molds, and mildew contend with the symptoms all year round. Atopic allergies manifest differently between people and dogs. People who inhale allergens often experience respiratory problems, such as a runny nose and sneezing. The most common symptom among dogs, in contrast, is itchy skin. Contact Allergies This is the least common form of allergies. Contact allergies are caused by direct contact with allergens. Substances that trigger the immune system’s response are lawn pesticides, grass, pyrethrins in flea collars, wool, and more. The allergy causes skin irritation and itching, often on the feet and stomach. The Symptoms You Should Watch Out For Allergies can develop in dogs of various breeds and backgrounds, but the VCA says most conditions occur after the dog reaches his or her first birthday. Regardless of age or breed, you should watch out for these allergy symptoms: 1. Your Dog’s Skin Itchiness Hives (pale red bumps, patches, and welts) Swelling on the face (earflaps, eyelids, and lips) Inflammation or redness Hair loss due to scratching Flea dirt (dark specks on your dog’s skin) Leathery skin texture 2. Your Dog’s Behavior Constant licking on a specific area Constant scratching Sneezing and wheezing Disinterest in playtime or food Vomiting Diarrhea Take note that different types of allergies may exhibit similar symptoms. Additionally, your dog may have multipletypes of allergies at the same time. This is why you shouldn’t diagnose your dog’s allergies on your own. The best step is to bring your dog to the vet for an official check-up and diagnosis. He or she will then provide the correct medical prescription. What Can You Do? Allergies are a treatable condition, and your pet can avoid a recurrence if you follow your vet’s recommendations carefully and make a few lifestyle changes. 1. Follow the Vet’s Prescription Your vet might recommend various treatment methods to relieve your dog’s symptoms. This could include anti-inflammatory drugs that block allergic reactions in atopic allergies. He or she may also recommend a hypoallergenic shampoo to soothe itchy, inflamed skin. In some cases, the conditions require allergy shots that would desensitize the dog’s over-active immune system. If a dog has flea bite allergies, the vet might prescribe a flea and tick medicine as well as a good dog flea comb. Administer your dog’s medicine according to the schedule and dosage prescribed by the vet. Don’t miss an allergy shot, and bathe your dog according to the vet’s recommended schedule. 2. Remove the Allergen Without the allergen, your dog’s immune system doesn’t have any reason to overreact. So, the best way to treat allergy is to remove the allergen.Contact allergies, for instance, are easy to solve. Keeping the dog away from the allergen (the dog leash, for instance) solves the problem. Food allergies call for a diet change. Once the vet identifies the food component that causes allergic reactions, replace your dog’s meals with food that’s free of the allergen. Dave’s Pet Food, for instance, features food options that can help dogs with food allergies. Our 95% Premium Meats Canned Dog Food contains no fillers or grains. It’s ideal for dogs who are allergic to carbohydrates. Our Naturally Healthy Dog Food in Pork Meal and Sweet Potato doesn’t contain beef, poultry, soy, wheat, corn, or dairy products. It’s wholesome and easy to digest. Our Grain-Free Chicken Meal Dry Dog Food doesn’t have grains, gluten, beef, corn, or soy. It’s also free of artificial colors and flavors. This option is ideal for dogs with very sensitive food allergies. Remember, too, that a gradual transition to the new diet prevents stomach problems. So, start by mixing your dog’s old food with the new food. Every day, increase the proportion of new food while reducing that of the old one. By the end of a week, your dog should be used to eating the new food. Atopic and insect bites allergens, meanwhile, require more extensive solutions. Vets often prescribe medications and lifestyle changes. For example, you can install air purifiers, which remove airborne pollens and microorganisms at home. Keep your house clean, too, to control insect populations. 3. Change Your Home and Dog’s Routine Making a few changes around your house could help relieve your dog’s symptoms and prevent recurrences. For instance, don’t let your dog come into contact with substances that irritate it. If your dog is allergic to pollen, wipe its hair and paws with a damp towel to remove pollen and dander. If grass irritates your dog, consider giving it dog boots. Ask your vet if you can give your dog foot baths, too. You can reduce and prevent a flea population from spreading by regularly vacuuming carpets and rugs. Immature fleas often thrive in these areas. Also, wash your dog’s clothes and bedding regularly with hypoallergenic and non-toxic detergents. Keep your yard mowed and trimmed. It is, after all, your homes’ first line of defense against fleas. Ask your vet for a healthy bathing schedule that reduces the risk for flea infestations and removes harmful organisms from your dog’s skin. Allergies, whatever type they may be, stops your dog from enjoying day-to-day activities. It even makes them vulnerable to skin infections and other health issues. So, bring your dog to your vet the moment you spot the symptoms of an allergy. If your dog is experiencing food allergies, try feeding it one of Dave's dog food recipes that best suit its condition.

More than 50% of dogs are overweight, according to a study conducted in 2011. Dogs are considered overweight if they weigh 15% more than their ideal weight and obese if they weigh 30% above the recommended figure. Excess weight can place a strain on a dog’s body and increases its risk for different diseases. In some cases, the obesity exacerbates a dog’s existing medical conditions. On top of that, being overweight or obese can make daily activities challenging and uncomfortable for your dog. It’s important to recognize if your pet carries excess pounds, so that you can resolve the problem through a proper weight loss plan. If you suspect that your dog is overweight or obese, you can refer to a dog weight calculator to check. Your dog’s condition is evident in its rib coverage; you should be able to feel your dog’s ribs, and he or she should have a waist when viewed from above. Otherwise, your dog might be overweight or obese. Reason Behind the Extra Pounds Obesity among dogs develops in much the same way as with their human counterparts, which is by eating too much and exercising too little. You might be giving your dog’s snacks and table scraps that contribute to their weight gain. Genetics can also play a part in gaining extra pounds. A 2007 study published in the Journal of Veterinary Pharmacology and Therapeutics says that some breeds are more predisposed to obesity than others. These include: Cairn Terriers Basset Hounds Cavalier King Charles and Cocker Spaniels Shetland Sheepdogs Dachshunds Labrador Retrievers Beagles Conversely, some breeds are less likely to carry excess weight. A 2006 study published in the journal Waltham Focus notes that greyhounds and various sheep-herding breeds are somewhat resistant to obesity. Age also affects the development of overweightness or obesity. As dogs age, their lean body mass and total energy needs decline. Their food intake, however, rarely decreases. This would explain the higher prevalence of obesity among older dogs. How Obesity and Being Overweight can Affect Your Dog Obesity and being overweight can bring discomfort to your dog. Daily activities become challenging, and it may even become unwilling to exercise. Excess weight can also lead to health issues, such as: Heart Disease – Overweight and obese dogs have a higher risk for heart diseases because their hearts have to work harder. They’re also at a higher risk for hypertension, which develops in 23% to 45% of obese dogs, according to a 2010 study published in the journal Preventative Veterinary Medicine, as well as the 2007 Journal of Veterinary Pharmacology and Therapeutics Research. Diabetes – Overweight and obese dogs can develop insulin resistance, similar to the metabolic syndrome of people. This increases their risk for diabetes. Orthopedic Diseases – Excess weight strains dogs’ joints and cartilage. This can reduce mobility and cause orthopedic disorders, such as osteoarthritis, osteochondrosis, and osteochondritis, to develop early. Respiratory Diseases – Obesity is a risk factor for tracheal collapse in small-breed dogs. It can also exacerbate asthma, laryngeal paralysis (a condition where the muscles in the airway don’t function properly), and brachycephalic airway obstruction syndrome (a condition where airway abnormalities occur and prevent proper breathing). Additionally, excess fat can cut off years from a dog’s life. Lean dogs usually outlive their heavier counterparts by 6-12 months. Additionally, a 2005 study published in the Journal of the American Veterinary Medical Association found that Labrador retrievers who were fed according to a diet lived 1.8 years longer than retrievers who ate without restraint. Pay Attention to Your Dog’s Weight With your dog’s health at stake, it’s important to watch its weight. It may be difficult to resist the urge to share random treats with your dog, but following a healthy meal and exercise plan will keep your dog energetic and give him or her a long and healthy life. If you suspect that your dog is overweight or obese, consult your vet for a diet and weight loss plan. Here are other ways that can keep your dog’s weight in check. Schedule Exercise As in humans, exercise burns off your dog’s excess calories and keeps obesity at bay. The amount of exercise your dog needs depends on its age, breed, and weight. As a rule of thumb, your dog should spend between 30 minutes to two hours on physical activity every day. Breeds in the hunting, working, or herding groups (such as Labrador retrievers, hounds, and shepherds) usually need more extensive and longer exercises. Meanwhile, short-nosed breeds like bulldogs and dogs in the toy group, like chihuahuas and shih tzus, don’t need a lot of daily exercise — a nice, long walk is enough. When it comes to exercising, you don’t have to take your dog on long hikes or tomarathons. Regular walking and running will do. Give your pet a chance to run and play in an off-leash environment. Create a stimulating environment indoors, as well, so your dog will move more often. If your dog is overweight or obese, your vet would recommend increased physical activity to reduce its weight. Feed Your Dog the Proper Food It’s important for pet parents to monitor their dog’s food intake to make sure they are not overeating. Ask your vet about the proper amount of food you should feed your dog to shed the extra pounds. Establish a fixed mealtime to avoid overfeeding your dog. Additionally, there are certain foods you can feed your pet to help them get back to a healthy weight. Our 95% Premium Meats canned food, for instance, is like the Atkins Diet for your dog. This option: Contains high-quality protein meats and ULTRA low carbs Is Diabetes-friendly (it contains virtually no carbs), so blood sugar levels would unlikely spike Can be combined with less dry food. Add our 95% Premium Meats to their diet without sacrificing quality or balanced nutrition A gradual transition to new food will avoid stomach issues, so don’t change your dog’s dishes all at once. Instead, mix the new food with your dog’s old food. Throughout a week, gradually decrease the proportion of old food while increasing the proportion of new food. By the seventh day, your dog should consume all new food and none of the old one. Limit Treats It’s tempting to give treats to your dog, especially if it behaves well. These treats, however, often go unmonitored and often contribute to a dog’s obesity. Just like the sweet treats we give to children; we have to keep pet snacks in check. So control the urge to give them food, especially table scraps, and stick to your pet’s mealtime. Instead of snacks, use toys like clickers and balls for positive reinforcement. Use praise and affection to motivate your dog. If you really think that your dog deserves a treat, give him or her healthy snacks. Additionally, don’t leave food out and available to your dog around the clock. This could encourage your dog to overeat out of boredom. Maintain a Proper Weight Once your dog has achieved the ideal weight, it’s crucial to maintain it. Drastic weight loss or gain isn’t healthy for your dog, so you’ll want to manage it and help it maintain an active lifestyle. Ask your vet if you should adjust your dog’s food portions, feeding time, and exercise routine, once losing weight is no longer an issue. Remember that obesity and being overweight can adversely affect your dog’s health, life expectancy, and overall quality of life. If you think your dog carries extra weight, consult your vet immediately for a weight loss plan. Your dog will enjoy a long and happy life if you help him lead an active lifestyle and provide nutritious food. Try Dave’s premium canned food for your pets today. Our 95% Premium Meats canned food is like the Atkins Diet for your dog. It contains high quality protein meats and ULTRA low carbs. With Dave’s canned food, you can feed your dog less dry food and add our 95% Premium Meats to their diet without sacrificing quality or balanced nutrition. This option is also Diabetes-friendly as it contains virtually no carbs, thus blood sugar levels shouldn’t spike.

Got a picky eater on your hands? No problem! The great thing about Dave’s Pet Food is that it is wholesome and nutritious—and it tastes great too. Your pet is an important part of your family, so we understand that you want to feed them the very best. Our line of Dave’s Delicate Dinners canned dog food contains no wheat or gluten—but is packed with lots of real meat and healthy vegetables to ensure that your pet is getting the nutrition they need without sacrificing taste.

Dogs explore the world through their mouths. When curiosity strikes, they aren’t afraid to chew on unfamiliar objects. While some dogs have a gut of steel and can eat anything without becoming ill, others aren’t so lucky. As with humans, some dogs are sensitive to certain types of dog food. In some cases, canine stomachs can’t digest certain proteins or too much fat. There are dogs, too, that develop stomach problems because their diet doesn’t contain enough fiber. Nutrient deficiency can also trigger a sensitive stomach. Whatever the trigger, sensitive stomachs cause complications like vomiting and diarrhea. They could put your dog’s health in danger. As a pet parent, you need to provide him or her with nutritious food that doesn’t contain anything that could set off a sensitive stomach. What Caused Your Dog’s Sensitive Stomach? If your dog has a sensitive stomach, chances are he or she was born with it. Most of the causes of this condition are congenital, such as breed and age. Breeds like the Scottish Terrier and the Yorkie, for instance, are more likely to have a sensitive stomach. Senior dogs and puppies are also more prone to it. Your dog could also develop a sensitive stomach if it faced a major transition in life or acquired a disorder that affected the digestive tract. Signs that Your Dog Has a Sensitive Stomach Despite myriad causes for the condition, the symptoms are strikingly similar across all breeds and ages: Vomiting – When your dog vomits, its body is expelling something that shouldn’t be in its system. Occasional vomiting is not a cause for concern. Frequent bouts, however, require veterinary care because it can be a sign your dog’s stomach is sensitive to a certain food. Diarrhea – Frequent bowel movement and loose, watery stool are ways the body clears the digestive tract of substances that shouldn’t be there. Diarrhea can be a sign your dog’s stomach can’t tolerate certain food. Passing Gas – It’s normal for dogs to pass gas because they swallow air when they chew. The bacteria in their guts also produce gas. An excess of gas means the dog can’t digest food properly, causing excessive fermentation in the colon. Eating Grass – Dogs tend to eat grass when their stomachs are upset. In some cases, grass blades trigger the stomach lining and cause your dog to vomit. Skipping Meals – A sensitive stomach could make your dog lose its appetite. Diagnosing a Sensitive Stomach It’s tricky for pet owners to assess their dogs’ condition by themselves. Vomiting, diarrhea and frequent flatulence could also be signs of other digestive system disorders like food allergies. Unlike sensitive stomachs that can’t process dog food, allergies involve the immune system’s over-response to a benign object. The symptoms could also signal something more serious, like parasites, bacterial or fungal infections, a bowel disease, stomach ulcers, or pancreatitis. A check-up at the vet clinic can rule out these conditions. Vets perform a health history, physical, and fecal examination to confirm that the symptoms stem from a sensitive stomach. Don’t worry; sensitive stomachs are usually not serious. In most cases, changing your pet dog’s diet easily solves the problem. Helping Your Dog Cope with a Sensitive Stomach Once the vet confirms that your dog has a sensitive stomach, you have to be cautious about what you feed your dog, including snacks and treats. Here’s how you can help your dog cope with sensitive stomach: Feed Your Dog the Right Type of Food A simple and bland diet doesn’t trigger a sensitive stomach. So, feed your dog with a meal of boiled rice and chicken — forego the seasoning. Ask your vet if you could feed your dog canned pumpkin, too. Your dog’s body absorbs pumpkin slowly, so it eases troubled digestion. Yogurt is also recommended because it replenishes the beneficial gut bacteria lost through diarrhea. Additionally, ask your vet if you can give your dog oatmeal, sweet potatoes, and bananas. If your dog is still vomiting, opt for wet dog food for sensitive stomachs to prevent dehydration. Choose high-quality canned food because high-grade ingredients are easier to digest. Dave’s Pet Food offers a selection that could work for your dog. Our dog food has ingredients that are on the bland side to cater to your dog’s sensitive stomach. Check whether or not your dog food contains wheat or gluten. Our chicken and rice recipes can ease your dog’s upset stomach. Remember: don’t switch out all your dog’s food at once, though. A gradual transition to the new diet would prevent stomach further problems. The first meal should comprise 80% of the old food and 20% of the new one. Gradually increase the portions of the new food while decreasing the old one. After ten days, your dog should be able to handle eating 100% new food. Limit Treats and Snacks Each meal already provides your dog with the essential nutrients to fuel daily activities. So, you have to restrict your dog’s diet to the healthy meals you serve every feeding time. Remove extra food items from your dog’s diet, such as table scraps and treats. These aren’t the healthiest food options for your dog, especially if he or she has a sensitive stomach. If you think your dog really deserves a treat, give him or her just one kind of snack — and make sure it’s easily digestible and doesn’t contain any food triggers. Better yet, use canned dog food for sensitive stomachs as treats. Lastly, monitor your dog so it won’t go sneaking into the trash or litter box. Remember that dogs love to put things into their mouths. Because of a sensitive stomach, the substances in these areas can easily get your dog sick. Keep Your Dog Hydrated A dog that has diarrhea quickly loses water and can become dehydrated in a matter of hours. Here are two ways to check if your dog needs hydration: Check the gums. If they’re not coated with a shiny, wet film, then your dog is dehydrated. Pinch the skin behind the neck, then release it. If the skin stays in a pinched position, your dog is likely dehydrated. Your dog needs plenty of water AND it also needs to replenish all the electrolytes and vitamins its has lost through the watery stool. Ask your vet for a prescription that would give your dog the electrolytes he or she needs. Dogs with a sensitive stomach require high-quality dog food, along with time and patience from you. Like their human counterparts, there’s no blanket cure for all dogs with this condition. You have to find the diet that wouldn’t trigger symptoms and, at the same time, give your dog all the essential nutrients. Once you’ve found what works for your dog, he or she can enjoy happy days again, free of that uncomfortable feeling at the pit of the stomach. If your dog has a sensitive stomach, try our Dave’s premium dog food today.