Food allergies in dogs occur when their immune system overreacts to specific ingredients in their diet, typically proteins such as chicken, beef, or fish. When a dog consumes a food they are allergic to, the immune system triggers an inflammatory response, which can result in various symptoms. In contrast, environmental allergies occur when a dog’s body reacts to allergens that come into contact with their skin, often absorbed through the paws or coat. These allergens include pollen, mold, dust mites, grasses, and even flea saliva. Environmental allergies are most often seasonal, flaring up during particular times of the year, though they can also persist year-round, depending on the allergen.

It’s important to note that some dogs can suffer from both food and environmental allergies simultaneously. Studies suggest that around 30% of dogs with food sensitivities also experience seasonal allergies or flea allergies, which can make diagnosis and treatment more complex.

Causes of weight gain in dogs

· There are many reasons why a dog might gain weight, and you should check with your Vet if you suspect any of these causes :

Health issues: Cushing’s disease, hypothyroidism, intestinal parasites, or other health issues

Medication: Prescription medication

Other factors: Fluid retention, hormone problems, pregnancy, or stress

Why it is important to keep them at a healthy weight? Excess weight can lead to the following:

· Arthritis

Weight puts pressure on joints, causing them to wear down faster. Arthritis can also make dogs less likely to exercise, which can lead to a cycle of more eating, sleeping, and laying around.

· Respiratory problems

Excess fat in the chest can prevent the lungs from fully expanding, while fat in the abdomen can push up against the diaphragm. This makes it harder for the lungs to supply oxygen, especially when exercising.

· Skin conditions

Excess fat on your dog’s body can be a sign of being overweight. You can check for fat sacks between their legs, or inspect their hips while petting them.

· Heart disease

Increased body fat can lead to higher blood pressure, which can cause congestive heart failure. The heart also has to work harder to pump blood to excess tissues.

· Diabetes

Obesity increases insulin resistance in dogs, which can lead to diabetes. Diabetes is a serious health risk that requires ongoing treatment.

· Cancer

Studies suggest that obese dogs may have an increased risk of developing certain types of cancer, including urinary bladder cancer and mammary tumors.

· Liver Disease

Long-term obesity can lead to a fatty liver, which is a main cause of liver disease in dogs.

· Overall Wellbeing

Simply put, your dog will feel better and be happier at a healthy weight. They are much less likely to suffer a premature death.

We do not want to starve them, feed them bland/boring food or drain your wallet with a prescription diet. Let us show you how you can feed a healthy, all-natural diet that will make them happy.

Here are some ways to check if your dog is overweight:

· Feel their ribs

You should be able to feel your dog’s ribs without a layer of fat covering them. If you can feel a thin layer of fat, your dog may be overweight.

· Look at their waist

When your dog is standing, there should be a clear waist between their hips and rib cage. If your dog looks square from above, or has bulging in this area, they may be overweight.

· Check their body condition

From the side, your dog’s tummy should tuck up and their ribs should be just visible.

· Look for fat pads

Excess fat on your dog’s body can be a sign of being overweight. You can check for fat sacks between their legs, or inspect their hips while petting them.

· Consider their energy

Overweight dogs may have lower energy and fitness levels. They may pant more, walk slower, or sleep more often than usual.

· Other signs that your dog may be overweight include:

Abdominal sagging

A bigger, rounder face

Reluctance to go for walks

Needing help getting in and out of cars

Refusal to move or play games

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