My pitbull-hound Max struggled with allergies for years and I didn’t know how to help him. It was devastating. This was before we tried raw food.
Over the years we tried dietary changes and eliminating common things from his diet, none of which has seemed to make a difference other than maybe improving his coat health/sheen.
If you are struggling with your dog’s allergies, this blog is for you! From relentless itching to chronic ear infections, allergies made our pup miserable. Switching to a raw food diet, has proven to be an effective way to manage allergy issues.
Packed with high-quality ingredients and free of common allergens, raw food diets for dogs CAN AND WILL transform your dog’s health! In our blog today, we’ll explore how raw food can alleviate your dog’s allergies, improve their well-being, and offer practical tips for switching to a raw diet safely.
At BJ's Raw Pet Food we care a lot about your canine's health and a produce a high-quality natural dog food right here in Lancaster, PA!
What Are Dog Allergies and Why Do They Happen?
Dog allergies stem from sensitivities to environmental factors (like pollen, dust, or mold) or food ingredients (such as grains, chicken, or artificial additives). According to VCA Hospitals, the number one cause of allergies in dogs is flea saliva and bites.
Food allergies are particularly tricky, like our pup had. We found, like many other dogs, that commercial kibble was leading to these chronic symptoms in our dog Max. These chronic symptoms, include:
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Excessive scratching or licking
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Red, inflamed skin or hot spots
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Recurrent ear infections
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Digestive issues like diarrhea or vomiting
Kibbles are highly processed dog foods that often contain fillers, preservatives, or low-quality proteins that aggravate allergies. That's were and all natural raw food diet comes in, eliminating these culprits, offering a cleaner, more natural alternative! If you care about your pet's health, you need to understand the raw diet benefits to help and the allergies that are associated with kibble dog food.
What Is a Raw Food Diet for Dogs?
A raw food diet, often referred to as BARF (Biologically Appropriate Raw Food), mirrors the diet of a dog’s wild ancestors. Since the early 1990’s, this revolutionary feeding program for pet dogs and cats has swept Australia, New Zealand, the UK, Europe and North America. The seemingly miraculous improvements in health that have accompanied this epidemic of raw feeding have outstripped the expectations of even its most vocal supporters.
It typically includes:
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Raw muscle meat (e.g., beef, turkey, lamb)
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Organ meats (e.g., liver, kidney)
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Raw bones (for calcium and dental health)
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Vegetables and fruits (in moderation for fiber and antioxidants)
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Supplements (e.g., fish oil for omega-3 fatty acids)
Unlike kibble, which undergoes high-heat processing that can alter proteins and nutrients, raw diets are minimally processed, reducing the risk of allergic reactions.
5 Ways Raw Food Helps Manage Dog Allergies
Switching to a raw food diet can significantly reduce allergy symptoms in dogs. Here’s how:
1. Eliminates Common Food Allergens
Commercial dog foods often contain grains (wheat, corn), soy, or artificial additives—top triggers for food allergies. Raw diets are naturally grain-free and customizable, allowing you to avoid allergens like chicken or beef. For example, novel proteins like venison, rabbit, or duck can be used to prevent reactions. Saying no to kibble and switching to raw, an allergy-friendly diet, transformed our dog's healthy.
2. Offers Full Ingredient Control
With raw feeding, you know exactly what’s in your dog’s bowl. We like to say from farm to table here at BJ's! Unlike kibble, which may list vague ingredients like “animal by-products,” raw diets use single-source, high-quality proteins. This transparency makes it easier to identify and eliminate specific allergens through an elimination diet.
3. Reduces Inflammation Naturally
Raw diets are rich in anti-inflammatory nutrients like omega-3 fatty acids (from fish or grass-fed meats) and antioxidants (from fruits like blueberries). These nutrients calm inflamed skin and support the immune system, helping your dog combat allergic reactions more effectively.
4. Boosts Gut Health for Better Immunity
A healthy gut is key to managing allergies, as poor digestion can amplify immune responses. Raw food contains natural enzymes and beneficial bacteria that promote a balanced gut microbiome. Unlike carb-heavy kibble, raw diets are low in carbohydrates, preventing yeast overgrowth that worsens skin allergies.
5. Enhances Skin and Coat Health
Allergies often manifest as itchy, flaky skin or dull coats. The high-quality proteins and healthy fats in raw food, such as those from salmon or flaxseed oil, nourish the skin and strengthen its barrier. This reduces sensitivity to environmental allergens and promotes a shiny, healthy coat.
How to Transition Your Dog to a Raw Food Diet
It was definitely a learning curve for my wife and I when we switched our dog to a raw food diet. So be patient! It is worth it. It requires careful planning to ensure your dog’s nutritional needs are met and allergies are managed. I'd like to offer some tips that worked for us, consider these steps for a smooth transition:
1. Consult a Veterinarian
Before changing your dog’s diet, consult your vet! Especially if your dog's allergies are severe. Our veterinarian was so helpful at recommending allergy testing to pinpoint triggers that may be affecting our dog and helped us create a balanced raw diet tailored to our dog’s needs.
2. Source High-Quality Ingredients
As a raw pet food company in Lancaster, PA we are surrounded by beautiful farmland. We source ONLY the highest-quality meats and produce from trusted, local farms.
3. Take it Slow!
Abrupt diet changes can upset your dog’s stomach. Start by mixing 10–20% raw food with their current diet, gradually increasing the raw portion over 1–2 weeks. Monitor for improvements in allergy symptoms or digestive changes.
4. Customize for Allergies
If your dog has known sensitivities, begin with a single protein source (e.g., turkey or lamb) and observe for reactions. Introduce new ingredients slowly, one at a time, to build a safe, allergy-friendly diet.
5. Ensure Nutritional Balance
A raw diet must follow guidelines like the 80/10/10 rule (80% muscle meat, 10% organ meat, 10% bone) to avoid deficiencies. Work with a veterinary nutritionist to create a plan that meets your dog’s needs.
Challenges and Precautions of Raw Feeding
While raw food can be a game-changer for allergies, it comes with considerations:
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Cost and Time: Preparing raw meals can be pricier and more time-intensive than kibble.
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Bacterial Risks: Raw meat may carry pathogens like Salmonella. Practice strict hygiene, such as disinfecting surfaces and bowls, and consider lightly searing meat if concerned.
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Nutritional Risks: Poorly formulated diets can lead to deficiencies. Always ensure balance with professional guidance.
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Not a Universal Fix: Raw food may not fully address environmental allergies or severe cases requiring medication.
Keywords: raw diet safety, dog food hygiene, balanced pet nutrition
Real-Life Success Stories
Pet owners around the country have reported dramatic improvements in their dogs’ allergies after switching to BJ's Raw pet food! We love hearing your raw diet success stories! Check out this Google Review from Rachel:
"My pug has been eating BJ’s Raw food for almost a year and does great on it. His itching has just about stopped, his fur is smooth and sleek, little shedding, and he’s healthy. The quality of the food is unbeatable (we’ve tried many different brands of raw foods), prices are doable even with shipping, plus I love getting surprise discounts for ordering regularly on the subscription schedule. Highly recommended!!"
Conclusion: A Natural Path to Allergy Relief
A raw food diet offers a natural, customizable solution for managing your dog’s allergies. By eliminating common allergens, reducing inflammation, and supporting gut and skin health, raw feeding can significantly improve your dog’s quality of life. With careful planning, veterinary guidance, and high-quality ingredients, you can help your dog say goodbye to itchy paws and hello to vibrant health. Ready to make the switch? We would love to help! Start small, stay informed, and watch your dog thrive!