Your Dog's Health

Diabetes is caused by a lack of insulin, the hormone that regulates how sugar is absorbed and used by cells and tissues in the body. It most often afflicts dogs between the ages of five and seven, and female dogs are more susceptible to it than males. If you notice your dog is suddenly extremely thirsty and urinates more than usual, consult your veterinarian, as these behaviors may be signs of diabetes.

Environmental contaminants, such as dust and mold, can cause allergies in a dog. So can his food, although it takes time to make that diagnosis. Usually, a veterinarian will put a dog on a food elimination diet to determine if he has a food allergy. That means the dog spends eight to ten weeks on a special hypoallergenic diet. If his clinical signs improve on the hypoallergenic diet, he is then challenged with his original diet. If the dog is truly allergic to his food, there will likely be an increase in clinical signs, such as itching and inflamed skin. If these appear, further testing will be needed to determine which specific ingredients trigger the allergy symptoms.

Purina offers hypoallergenic pet foods to suit any type of allergy a dog may have. 

Does your itchy dog have a dog skin disease, or allergies?

It has been estimated that up to 15 percent of dogs suffer from skin allergies, also known as allergic dermatitis. Allergic reactions often lead to skin inflammation, and the most common sign of allergies is scratching. Signs generally occur seasonally, but can extend throughout the year. Your veterinarian can determine the best treatment for your dog with allergies.

Digestive upset is one of the most common reasons dogs are brought to the veterinarian. There are many causes for digestive problems in dogs, including dietary indiscretion, infections, and allergies. Some dog digestive problems may resolve once the dog’s digestive system is given a chance to rest, but more serious conditions could result in weight loss, dehydration and debilitation. If your dog has a digestive problem, contact your veterinarian and they can determine the appropriate treatment.