Saliva And Urine Can Cause Allergies
Hair and even dandruff are not the only sources of dog allergies. Saliva is a very frequent source of dog allergies. The saliva of dogs contains proteins that peoples immune systems can disagree with, causing an allergic reaction.Dogs that are very slobbery can cause massive allergies. Some of these dogs include Bulldogs and Saint Bernards. These breeds of dogs can cause significant allergies via saliva.Even the urine from dogs could cause allergies. Some experts propose that pet urine contains similar proteins as their saliva that can cause allergies. Urine may have these proteins that flare up allergies, but the main reason urine appears to cause allergies is surprisingly simple.Pet urine contains ammonia. Ammonia is an irritating compound, especially for the respiratory system. Exposure to ammonia via pet urine can irritate the respiratory system in similar ways to allergies making it almost like a universal allergen. The respiratory irritation from the ammonia can even amplify the effects from other allergies. Even if you have no allergies to pet urine or even pets, a pets urine could amplify the effects of anything you are allergic to.
How Much Food To Feed An Adult German Shepherd
You should give them 2.5 to 3.5 cups of solid food every day. Highly active hounds need more food, so you can offer them 3.5 cups every day.
However, 2.5 cups are enough for a senior or inactive dog. Dont offer them a low-quality recipe that has corn, soy, wheat, preservatives, and artificial colors.
These big creatures are prone to develop gastric dilation-volvulus , which is caused by these non-nutritional ingredients. Bloat can be deadly.
Write Down All The Symptoms You See
The first step in addressing a suspected case of canine allergies is to record all of the visible symptoms. Look for behavioral and skin problems.
For example, if you see your German Shepherd constantly rubbing their tail area or ears against the carpet, this could be a sign of itching due to allergies.
If you see hot spots or abrasions, or you see your dog biting their paws, this could be due to allergies.
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Avoid Using Room Or Fragrance Sprays
Some German Shepherd allergies are brought on or worsened by unnatural, chemical-laden room and fragrance or perfume sprays.
Avoid using these items, including the plug-in room fragrance models, if you suspect your German Shepherd has allergies or is itching constantly.
Remove any fragrance plug-ins and dont burn any candles or incense.
Your dogs nose is much more sensitive than your own and they can smell even the lightest of fragrance which can trigger allergies. Try forgoing your perfume and fragranced body sprays and deodorants to see if this makes a difference in your GSDs allergies and scratching.
How To Tell If You Are Allergic To German Shepherds
If you are around a GSD and get symptoms such as running nose, stuffy nose, itchy or watery eyes, sneezing, or coughing, you may be allergic to dogs.; This is more likely to be true if as soon as you leave the animal the symptoms magically disappear.
Some people are only allergic to a specific type of pet, whereas others are allergic to all pets.
Other people may not start off being allergic to dogs but develop an allergic reaction to them over time.;
If this is you, there are some things you can do to reduce the amount of pet dander in your home, which will reduce your allergies.
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Ps For Dogs 100% Hypoallergenic Dog Food
PS for Dog food is a formula explicitly manufactured for dogs with skin and food allergies; according to the PS brand, this formula is made with few ingredients and contains no grains, and it also promotes healthy digestion in dogs while reducing itching licking other allergy-related discomforts in your dogs.
To offer high protein levels to your German Shepherd dogs with skin allergies, this formula contains real Australian lamb meat chunks that have been thoroughly aired-dried and contain some additional hypoallergenic components.
It also helps to control foul-smelling and improves your dogs coat health. This Dog food is ideal for dogs that are fussy eaters and require a high-protein, grain-free diet.
This formula contains low glycemic dog food that avoids yeast infections in your German shepherd dog and builds a healthy immune system of your dog with a high level of protein and hypoallergenic ingredients.
How To Treat Home Allergies
Prevention is usually the best way to combat home allergies. Regular cleaning and vacuuming of your house will reduce the number of dust mites that trigger an allergic reaction in your dog.
Another source of allergy can be found on your dogs bedding and their food bowl. Wash them regularly since they accumulate all the dander from your dogs fur, as well as hair that sheds.
Treatment of symptoms usually consists of antihistamines or steroid medications, depending on the level of symptoms. Your veterinarian will be able to prescribe the most appropriate type for your dogs needs.
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Best: The Bichon Frise And Labradoodle Are Great Hypoallergenic Dogs
Both the labradoodle and the bichon frise are often recommended for people with dog allergies because of their easy-to-maintain coats. Labradoodles with wool-like hair may not pick up as many outdoor allergens as other breeds. The curly coat of a bichon frise;produces little dander, making it another great hypoallergenic dog.
Are German Shepherd Collie Mixes Hypoallergenic
As we mentioned above, theres no such thing as a 100 per cent hypoallergenic dog. However, some breeds are more hypoallergenic than other types of dogs.
German Shepherd Collie Mixes arent considered a hypoallergenic mix breed unlike some hybrid dogs such as Sheepadoodles, Goldendoodles, Irish Doodles and Labradoodles.
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What Are The Most Common Allergens In German Shepherds
Though your German Shepherd can be allergic to anything in the world around them, there are some common allergens that are known to cause issues for our beloved German Shepherds.
Some of the most common allergens to be aware of in German Shepherds include:
- Fleas
- Soy
- Wheat
Though these are common allergens for German Shepherds, it does not mean that your Shepherd will automatically have a reaction to these items.
Just be sure to monitor for any signs of allergies if you know your Shepherd is exposed to any of these substances or items.;
Your German Shepherd Dogs Health
We know that because you care so much about your dog, you want to take good care of her. That is why we have summarized the health concerns we will be discussing with you over the life of your Shepherd. By knowing about health concerns specific to German Shepherd Dogs, we can tailor a preventive health plan to watch for and hopefully prevent some predictable risks.
Many diseases and health conditions are genetic, meaning they are related to your pets breed. There is a general consensus among canine genetic researchers and veterinary practitioners that the conditions weve described herein have a significant rate of incidence and/or impact in this breed. That does not mean your dog will have these problems; it just means that she is more at risk than other dogs. We will describe the most common issues seen in German Shepherd Dogs to give you an idea of what may come up in her future. Of course, we cant cover every possibility here, so always check with us if you notice any unusual signs or symptoms.
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Soothing Allergies In Your German Shepherd
So how can you make your German Shepherds life more comfortable when they suffer from allergies?
Some of the most effective ways to tame your GDSs allergies and offer her comfort include:
- Giving your GSD a weekly bath with a soothing shampoo. Try your best to look for shampoos with calming properties such as oatmeal, aloe, lavender, honey, and more.;
- Offer your German Shepherd a daily omega fatty acid supplement to help improve skin health. This not only helps to hydrate the skin and promote healing, but it can also offer much needed joint support that your German Shepherd requires.;
- Keep up with your German Shepherds monthly flea and tick prevention.
- Discuss the daily use of benadryl when your German Shepherd is experiencing an allergy flare up.;
- Brush your German Shepherd daily to limit the amount of allergens that can cling to their fur. This will also help to prevent a build up of fur and pet dander around your home.;
- Offer them a quality diet to help prevent any additional sensitivities to artificial ingredients and preservatives that are often found in low quality food.;
- Try your best to limit the chemicals used within your home.;
- Be careful with any scents or essential oils that you diffuse within your home.;
- Wash your dogs bed and blankets frequently when they are experiencing allergy flare ups.;
- Monitor your German Shepherd closely for any signs of skin infection, ear infection, or other complications from their allergies.;
What Does An Allergy Mean For German Shepherd
An allergy is when the bodys immune system responds inappropriately to a substance, causing a reaction to something which normally would not pose a threat to the body.;;
The substances which trigger an allergic reaction in dogs include things such as different types of food, insect bites, medications, or environmental triggers such as dust or pollen.;
The allergic reaction to this substance can cause a wide range of symptoms which may affect different body systems including the skin, eyes, ears and digestive system.
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Signs Of Flea Allergies In Your German Shepherd
Flea allergies in our furry friends tend to have a few common symptoms.
Though every Shepherd is different, the most common flea allergy symptoms in German Shepherds include:
- Constant itching and biting at the skin
- Hair loss, usually around their back end
- Seeming frustrated and suddenly biting at a certain area
- Skin irritation and redness
Should You Feed Supplements To Your German Shepherd With Allergies
Commercially-formulated dry food is whole and balanced. So, if you are feeding it to him, there is no need to give him supplements of vitamins, minerals, etc.
In fact, adding supplements to your young and healthy GSDs diet can be harmful. Supplement him only if the vet has recommended.
Sometimes, vets prescribe heart and joint supplements for senior shepherds. With the growing age, they experience wear and tear on their organs and joints.;;
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Groom And Bathe Your Dog
Grooming and bathing your dog can help remove allergens that could flare up your allergies. It helps control how much of their hair and their dandruff stays on them.But be careful not to over do it. If you bathe them too often you could accidentally dry their skin excessively which could make them form more dandruff.
Causes Of German Shepherd Skin Allergies
What can cause any allergy in a dog? The immune system is overreacting to an allergen it thinks is a threat, which may or may not realistically be harmful.
Dogs dont have drugs to deal with severe reactions, like epinephrine. Unlike respiratory reactions in humans, most allergic reactions will manifest on a dogs skin. Our dogs usually dont suffer airway complications like we might.
Some of the most common causes of allergic reactions in dogs are:
- Fleas/ other parasites
- Normal bacteria & yeast on the skin
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Keep Your Clothes Clean
Another tip for reducing dander is to keep your clothes as clean as possible.; When you are around your dog, dog fur and dander sticks to you clothing.; Thus, even when you arent around your dog, you could still be experiencing an allergic reaction.
Some people even have clothes that they only wear to do activities with their dog, and then other clothes that they never wear for dog activities.
Reducing the dander on your clothes will keep you from sneezing all day long, even when you arent around your dog.
What Are The Best Treats For German Shepherds
The treats that are available in the market dont follow the AAFCO standards, so they dont provide vital nutrients that your dog needs.
We would recommend you to give them all-natural, whole foods such as carrots, pumpkin, sweet potato, apples, cheese, etc.;
However, if you want to give them commercial dog treats, buy the ones that are premium quality and loaded with important nutrients.
They should also be low in fat, calories, and additives. The treat should be only 10% of your furry fellows total daily calories.
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How Chicken Allergies In German Shepherd Dogs Are Diagnosed
From this point forward, the path to an accurate diagnosis and treatment is actually quite similar to how food allergies are diagnosed in people.
The first step is typically one of two approaches: either to do allergy testing or to try an elimination diet, or both.
As this helpful YouTube video from a veterinarian explains, once a chicken allergy is strongly suspected, trying a different diet that does not contain any chicken to see if your GSDs symptoms improve is an easy way to see if your dogs health issues are food-related.
Allergy testing may require skin tests, urine tests, blood tests, or a combination of these.
If your veterinarian is not sure if your dogs symptoms are related to food or another type of allergen, allergy testing will probably be done first. Otherwise, many veterinarians now try an elimination diet first to see if that solves the problem.
Harveys Specialty Diet Allergy Turkey Recipe
If your dog has environmental, skin, and stomach sensitivities, then you should purchase DR. Harveys Specialty Diet.
This human-grade dog food is specially developed for pooches with allergies to fight predispositions from the inside out with functional superfoods such as pumpkin, carrots, flaxseed, and others.
Its primary ingredient is turkey, which is also its main protein source. It does not have corn, soy, wheat, chicken, eggs, and dairy.
Furthermore, the grain-free diet has limited ingredients for enhanced digestion. It has prebiotics and probiotics for a strong immune system and improved gut health.
Antioxidants are also incorporated into it to reduce inflammation. It is an ideal substitute for kibble.
We have also recently switched our German shepherd to this food, and we are so happy watching her not suffer. Our Daisy has been consuming this fresh food for a month now.
She is no longer vomiting, licking, or scratching her paws. Her coat looks excellent, and her energy levels are quite high.
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What Does An Allergy Mean For German Shepherds
Allergy is a destructive immune system reaction by the body to a substance, especially different sorts of foods, medications, dust, pollen, and insect bites, which normally would not cause harm to the body.
The hypersensitivity to that particular material can cause numerous symptoms that may affect different parts of the body, including the stomach, ears, skin, and eyes.;
Forza10 Dermo Sensitive Skin Dog Food
Forza10 Dermo sensitive skin dog food is the best dog food for German shepherds with allergies. It helps improve dry skin and gives relief from skin allergies and problems.
This superior quality formula supports the overall health and wellbeing of dogs. Moreover, it is loaded with fiber, omega fatty acids, and raw fish proteins.
The grain-free recipe does not include gluten, artificial colors, flavors, and GMOs.
It contains hydrolyzed fish protein, so you can rest assured that your little ones immune system wont react inappropriately and aid with IBD .
Pomegranate is also added into it, which is an excellent source of antioxidants that prevents tissue degeneration.
Besides, it boasts papaya that is liable for lowering oxidative stress and stimulating the immune system.;
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German Shepherds And The Quest For The Perfect Family Dog
If youre looking to add a canine as an extra member of your family, you probably have a German Shepherd in mind seeing that theyre the;second most popular dog;breed in the US.
Despite being so well-liked, the big question is, are German Shepherds the perfect family dog?
German Shepherds are intelligent, easy-to-train, courageous, and loyal companions making them great family dogs. Theyre also playful, have lots of energy, and need regular exercise. Theyre gentle guardians and shower their owners with affection. But given their large size, theyre not ideal for families with senior citizens.;
In this article, well address the factors you need to consider before adopting a GSD.
With my background in veterinary medicine, well discuss how well this dog breed gets along with kids and other pets, whether theyre aggressive, how much living space they need, and more.
So lets get right into it.
In this post, well look at:
Purina Pro Plan Focus Sensitive Skin & Stomach
The Purina Pro plan focus is packed with zinc and omegas to deeply nurture the skin, support a healthy fur, and promote joint health.
This lamb and oat recipe is explicitly manufactured for GSDs with sensitive stomachs and allergies. To strengthen the immune system, antioxidants are inserted into it.
Besides, it has minerals and vitamins that make it a whole and balanced dry food. This delicious and easy-to-digest formula contains prebiotic fiber to improve gut health.
It is developed without corn, wheat, soy, and gluten that could initiate allergic reactions or diarrhea. It is also free from additives such as flavors, colors, and preservatives.
If your dog is allergic to poultry, then this recipe is highly suitable for him as it does not contain chicken, poultry, or poultry by-product meals.;;
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