Dog Food Intolerance & Food Allergy
In the same way that humans can have a food intolerance or allergy, so too can dogs. However, while we can communicate when we feel unpleasant or uncomfortable symptoms after eating something, dogs can't. This is why it's important to look out for any signs that your dog may have an allergy or intolerance.
"Skin or digestive issues may indicate food allergies and intolerances — ask your vet about testing and tailored care." — Hannah Shepherd, Registered Veterinary Nurse
Here, we'll explain what food intolerances and allergies in dogs are, how you can tell whether your dog might have one, and how you can find out for sure with a dog intolerance test.
Table of Contents
Can Dogs Have a Food Intolerance?
Yes, dogs can develop a food intolerance in the same way that humans can. They may lead to symptoms around the digestive system and skin, and cause them to over-groom.
Understanding Dog Food Intolerances and Allergies
An intolerance usually develops before your dog reaches three years of age, but in some cases it could be at any stage throughout your dog's life. They can be difficult to pinpoint because many of the symptoms are similar to those of other conditions, so if you suspect your dog may have an allergy or intolerance, it's always recommended that you find out for sure, such as with a dog intolerance test.
The difference between intolerance and allergy in dogs
An intolerance occurs when your dog struggles to digest or metabolise a certain type of food, while an allergy is caused by your dog's immune system incorrectly identifying specific food as a threat.
Symptoms of allergies and intolerances in dogs have many crossovers, which can make them tough to tell apart. Dog food intolerance symptoms include:
- Diarrhoea
- Vomiting
- Sneezing
- Itchiness
- Swelling around the face and ears
- Recurring ear infections
- Red skin or hives
- Over-grooming
If you think your dog may have an allergy or intolerance, check their poop, skin, ears and eyes after they eat potential triggers to see if it's a recurring problem.
Common Dog Food Intolerances
Dogs are omnivores, so they can develop intolerances to a range of foods, including meat, plants, grains and dairy — but many of the most common intolerances in dogs are proteins.
Any breed of dog can develop a food intolerance, but some are more susceptible than others, such as German Shepherds, Westies and Cocker Spaniels.
Other types of dog allergy
Food allergies aren't the only type dogs can suffer from; they may also develop environmental or contact allergies. Many of the symptoms are similar to those of a food allergy, and if you're not sure of the cause of your dog's symptoms, a dog intolerance test can tell you for sure.
Environmental dog allergies
Dogs often spend a lot of time outside, which exposes them to grass, trees, moulds, dust, pollen and more. This can make environmental allergies a challenge to identify.
Dog contact allergies
Contact allergies in dogs are relatively uncommon, but there's a small chance a dog can have an allergy to something they come into contact with. This could be carpets, bedding, pyrethrins, pesticides and more. It's also incredibly hard to pinpoint without testing a wide range of potential allergens.
Dog Food Intolerance Tests
A dog food intolerance test is the fastest and most accurate way to establish exactly what your dog has an allergy or intolerance to.
Your vet can arrange this for you, but it can be time-consuming and expensive.
A more affordable option is an at-home test. Our Advanced Dog Sensitivity Test analyses a sample of your dog's fur against 550 common allergens and provides a comprehensive report on what's causing your dog's symptoms, helping you take steps to prevent them being exposed to those triggers going forward.
How to Treat a Dog Food Intolerance
Food intolerances in dogs can't be cured, but you can prevent symptoms by managing their diet. Once you know what your dog has an intolerance to, you can remove the trigger from their diet.
If your dog regularly experiences symptoms and you suspect an allergy or intolerance, don't let them suffer in silence — you can find out for sure in less than a week, so you can prevent them from experiencing unpleasant and painful symptoms.
Buy a dog intolerance test to find out exactly what your dog has an allergy or intolerance to, so they can be healthier and happier.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I know if my dog has a food intolerance or a food allergy?
The symptoms overlap heavily and can be hard to tell apart by observation alone — an intolerance test can identify the specific trigger rather than leaving you guessing.
Can food intolerances in dogs go away on their own?
No — intolerances can't be cured, but symptoms can be fully managed by identifying and removing the trigger food from your dog's diet.
Are some dog breeds more prone to food intolerances?
Yes, breeds such as German Shepherds, West Highland Terriers, and Cocker Spaniels are more commonly affected, though any breed can develop one.
Can a dog be allergic to something other than food?
Yes — environmental allergens (pollen, dust, mould) and, more rarely, contact allergens (bedding, carpets, chemicals) can all cause similar symptoms to a food allergy.
To provide you with technically accurate, evidence-based information, content on the My Pet Sensitivity blog is reviewed by medical professionals with veterinary expertise.
Related reading: Is Allergy Testing for Dogs Worth It? · Do Dog Allergies Get Worse With Age? · The Most Common Allergies in Dogs · Why Is My Pet Being Sick?