What does Hypoallergenic mean? | Human & Pets™

What does Hypoallergenic mean?

Something labelled as ‘hypoallergenic’ means that it is relatively unlikely to cause an allergic reaction. There are certain foods which are known to be the most common when it comes to allergies and intolerances for dogs, such as grains, chicken and beef.
Reading What does Hypoallergenic mean? 4 minutes

Something labelled as ‘hypoallergenic’ means that it is relatively unlikely to cause an allergic reaction. There are certain foods which are known to be the most common when it comes to allergies and intolerances for dogs, such as grains, chicken and beef.

Proteins that are labelled ‘hypoallergenic’ are actually ‘novel’ proteins – ones that the dog has been unlikely to have eaten before and therefore would be less likely to cause a reaction.

Generally the most novel proteins include lamb, venison and rabbit – which can be a good starting point if you are investigating your dog’s potential intolerance or allergy.

 

Why is Hypoallergenic Dog Food Important for pets with Allergies?

Improved quality of life

Just like people, allergies can cause dogs a great deal of discomfort that ultimately makes day to day living a lot more difficult than it should be. Persistent scratching, gnawing at reddened skin and other problems such as reduced energy and fatigue can all be avoided by identifying the source of the allergy, then providing a suitable diet. This isn’t just good news for your pet, it also gives you the peace of mind and sense of well-being that comes from seeing your dog happy, healthy and full of vitality.

Reduced chance of allergies in humans

If your pet suffers from a skin allergy, their skin will produce a substance known as dander. This is responsible for many allergic reactions in humans. Things like streaming eyes, blocked nose and itchy skin can all be a result of coming in to contact with dander from a dog who is suffering from a condition caused by an allergic reaction. Switching to hypoallergenic dog food will drastically reduce the production of dander as the animal’s skin begins to recover. This is great news for those who love animals but suffer with allergies themselves.

Improved digestion

As any pet owner will tell you, digestion is extremely important. Smelly stools or problems like gas can make the experience of living with a dog far more unpleasant than it needs to be. If your dog’s stomach problems are caused by an allergy, many of the main symptoms can be alleviated or significantly reduced by making the switch to a suitable hypoallergenic food. Checking with your vet to ascertain the specific ingredient or additive your pet is allergic to is generally the first step and after this you can choose from the extensive selection of additive free, natural foods available.

Avoid serious health problems

Though some allergies can affect the skin or fur, in some cases, the consequences can be more serious. Dogs who are allergic to some of the more commonly used preservatives and additives in mass produced dog foods can be more susceptible to conditions like arthritis, kidney ailments and periodontal problems. Vet bills can be extremely expensive and the experience of taking a sick animal for treatment is always unpleasant. Switching to hypoallergenic dog food means that although you may be paying a little extra in the short term, you are potentially safeguarding against more significant health problems and the associated costs these can incur.

More Energy and Vitality

Animals that are suffering are generally lethargic, skittish or otherwise unsettled. When you provide a diet that doesn’t cause them any health problems, they are more likely to wake up with a natural spring in their step. This will ultimately be a good thing for both of you as you can enjoy living life to its fullest. Always consult your vet before making a change to diet, but in many cases, it can make a significant difference to the overall wellbeing of your pet.