What is a Gluten Free Diet
for Dogs?
A gluten free diet will exclude foods containing gluten. Often you can rid your dog of allergy symptoms simply by giving her gluten free dog food and placing her on a dog allergy diet.
Gluten is a protein found in wheat, wheat germ and all wheat products. There’s even a small amount of gluten in rye and barley! Oats are also on this list, not because they contain gluten, but because of cross contamination either in the field, on the truck, or at the processing plant. It’s not uncommon for Weimaraner dogs to develop a sensitivity to gluten, and, in addition, it can be tough on their digestive systems because it’s like “glue”. Gluten intolerance (Celiac disease) occurs when glutens act like glue in the intestine, causing it to malfunction, which leads to poor absorption of nutrients. A gluten free diet excludes any food containing those grains. Most people notice symptoms lessening, within days of starting their dog on a gluten free dog food .
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Symptoms of Food Allergies & Intolerance
The following symptoms may be present in dogs that have a sensitivity to gluten.- Dry and Itchy Skin
- Chronic Ear (Yeast) Infections
- Lackluster Coat
- Loose Stools
- Stinky Gas
- Lethargy
- Loss of Appetite
- Seizures
A gluten free diet is the only way to treat a body that is unable to digest the gluten protein. Gluten free is not necessarily the same as wheat free, however. Many gluten free products are made with wheat that has had the gluten removed. So it’s important to pay very close attention to ingredients lists before you buy!
Is a Grain Free Diet for Dogs the Same?
A grain free diet is a bit different from a dog diet without gluten. A grain free diet excludes any food containing any grains. For example, a grain free diet would exclude corn, rye, oats, and barley--in addition to excluding gluten-containing wheat.Grain can also cause problems in your dog’s diet because it creates acidity in the blood. Grains may be the culprit if your dog is experiencing skin problems (dry, itchy, hives, etc.), digestive issues, loose stools, and anal gland problems. If your dog is not able to digest grains properly or has a reaction to them, you will need to put him on a grain free diet, instead of just a gluten free diet! If you have any doubts about what is causing your dog’s health problems, it’s always best to consult with a veterinarian.
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