Allergies in pets can be a major source of discomfort and stress, both for pets and pet owners. While some allergies are unavoidable, there are many steps owners can take to reduce the severity and frequency of their pet’s allergies. One of the most effective ways to reduce allergy symptoms is to improve gut health.
The gut microbiome is a complex, yet delicate balance between helpful and harmful microorganisms. When the balance is shifted too far in favor of the harmful bacteria, the gut may become inflamed, leading to an increased risk of allergies. Fortunately, there are several measures owners can take to improve their pet’s gut health.1
1. Probiotics
Probiotics help restore the balance of helpful and harmful bacteria, reducing inflammation and improving digestion. Probiotics can be found naturally in fermented foods like yogurt or kefir, as well as in supplement form.2
2. Prebiotics
Prebiotics are compounds that feed the beneficial bacteria in the gut, helping them to thrive. They can be found in fiber-rich foods like bananas, apples, and oats.3
3. Omega-3s
Omega-3 fatty acids help keep the gut lining healthy, reducing inflammation and improving digestion. Feeding your pet a small amount of salmon, tuna, or other fatty fish is a great way to incorporate more Omega-3s into their diet.4
4. Avoid Allergy-Causing Foods
Common allergens are wheat, dairy, soy, corn, and egg. If your pet has a known food allergy, it is important to avoid giving them any of these foods.5
5. Avoid Processed Foods
Processed foods are often high in sugar and fillers, both of which can be detrimental to gut health. It is best to feed your pet a high-quality diet that is as close to their natural diet as possible.6
6. Feed Your Dog an Appropriate Diet
A nutritious, balanced diet is essential for your dog’s gut health. Your pup needs a wide variety of high-quality ingredients to get the most out of their meal.7
7. Feed Your Dog Smaller, More Frequent Meals
Smaller, more frequent meals can help to reduce digestive issues in dogs. Try to space out your pup’s meals so that they are eating something every four to six hours.8
8. Get plenty of exercise
Give your dog plenty of opportunities to get outside and get active. This will help improve their digestion and keep their immune system functioning properly.9
9. Provide plenty of fresh water
Make sure your dog has access to plenty of fresh, clean water at all times, particularly if they are eating a dry kibble diet.9
10. Reduce stress
Make sure to reduce stress in your dog’s environment as much as possible. This will help keep their immune system in balance and keep their gut bacteria in check.10
11. Give natural supplements
Natural supplements, such as omega-3 fatty acids, can help improve your dog’s gut health and reduce allergies. Make sure to get supplements that are specifically formulated for dogs.11
12. Limit treats
Too many treats can lead to an imbalance in the gut bacteria, so limit the amount of treats you give your dog.12
13. Brush your dog’s teeth
Brushing your dog’s teeth can help reduce plaque and bacteria buildup, reducing the risk of allergies.13
14. Keep their environment clean
Make sure to vacuum and mop regularly, and keep your dog’s bedding and toys clean.14
15. Use anti-fungal shampoo
If your dog is suffering from allergies, a special anti-fungal shampoo can help reduce bacteria on their skin.15
16. Monitor the temperature
Make sure your dog’s environment is not too hot or too cold. Hotter temperatures can encourage the growth of bacteria and mold, and colder temperatures can reduce the amount of beneficial bacteria in your dog’s gut.16
17. Avoid artificial sweeteners
Artificial sweeteners can be toxic to dogs and can interfere with the healthy balance of bacteria in the gut.17
18. Avoid antibiotics when possible
Antibiotics can kill beneficial bacteria, so try to find other ways to treat your dog’s conditions before resorting to antibiotics.18
19. Feed your pup an anti-inflammatory diet
An anti-inflammatory diet can help reduce inflammation associated with allergies. Include foods like fish, eggs, olive oil, and dark leafy greens in your pup’s meals.19
20. Provide your pup with bone broth
Bone broth is packed with vitamins and minerals and can help reduce inflammation associated with allergies.20
21. Introduce gut-healing foods into your pup’s meals
Vegetables like broccoli, cauliflower, kale, and spinach are packed with vitamins, minerals, and fiber to help support your dog’s gut health.21
Overall, improving your dog’s gut health is an important first step toward reducing allergies. By implementing the tips provided in this article, you can make your pup’s life more comfortable and healthier. With a combination of dietary changes, probiotics, and exercise, you can dramatically improve your dog’s gut health and reduce their risk of allergies. Don’t forget to consult your veterinarian for further advice and guidance. With the right steps, you can help your pup live a long, healthy life free from allergies and discomfort.
If you found this article helpful, please show us your support by liking and sharing our content! You can also follow and subscribe to our social media below. Let’s raise the woof!
Citations
- https://www.dogsnaturallymagazine.com/why-your-dogs-allergy-treatment-doesnt-work/
- https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/articles/14598-probiotics
- https://www.insider.com/guides/health/diet-nutrition/prebiotic-foods
- https://www.peytonprinciples.com/blog/fabulous-fats-why-some-are-essential-to-our-health-and-gut/
- https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/8624
- https://www.reuters.com/article/us-health-diet-processed-food/more-evidence-links-ultra-processed-foods-to-health-harms-idUSKCN1T61YX
- https://mother-nature.ca/importance-of-variety-in-dog-diet/
- https://www.purepetfood.com/blog/how-often-should-i-feed-my-dog
- https://brainly.com/question/1043680
- https://www.holistapet.com/home-remedies-for-dogs/dog-immune-system-booster/
- https://cimarronah.com/omega-3-fatty-acid-supplementation-for-pets-with-allergies/
- https://www.forbes.com/health/body/signs-of-unhealthy-gut-improve-gut-health/
- https://www.preventivevet.com/dogs/how-to-brush-your-dogs-teeth-and-why-you-should
- https://naturallygreencleaning.com/10-reasons-why-you-should-vacuum-for-allergies/
- https://cooperandgracie.com/en-us/products/anti-bac-anti-fungal-itchy-dog-skin-shampoo-fast-absorbing-natural-therapeutic-wash-first-aid-relief
- https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S003807172030170X
- https://grubblyfarms.com/blogs/the-flyer/toxic-for-dogs-xylitol
- https://www.healthline.com/health-news/antibiotics-can-kill-healthy-gut-bacteria-heres-what-to-eat-to-counter-that
- https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/320233
- https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/323903
- https://spotpetins.com/blog/dog-tips/can-dogs-eat-vegetables
