Do Huskies Have Food Allergies
All dogs have the potential to develop food allergies, though they are not as common as the pet food industry would have you believe. Most dogs dont develop food allergies until they are 1 or 2 years old, so you may not need to spend a fortune on hypoallergenic puppy food. You should also know that Huskies are not any more prone to allergies than other breeds, but it never hurts to be on the lookout for symptoms. If your dog develops chronic digestive problems or recurrent skin problems and ear infections, it could be a sign of allergies. Talk to your veterinarian about your concerns.
Dog Food Allergy Myths And Facts
Does your dog chew at his tail or feet? Does your cat have a dry, dull coat and always seems to be itchy? Are you constantly at the vet for ear infections or digestive issues? Food allergies or insensitivities may be to blame! While grain allergies are the most common seen in dogs, they can, and often do, develop allergies to specific proteins in their diets.
Dogs and cats are not born with allergies to specific proteins they are developed over time by feeding the same ingredients over and over. If a dog is given chicken every day of his life, for example, over time his body may become less equipped to break down those proteins. The body begins to mistakenly identify chicken as a harmful ingredient, and creates defensive antibodies to fight against the food. This is what causes the symptoms that many of us have become familiar with.
How can you prevent these allergies from developing? The best way is through a rotational diet, much like our own. Each day, we eat a different assortment of foods than the day before. This helps us to receive a wide variety of nutrients, and of course, prevents boredom from eating the same thing over and over. Dogs and cats also benefit from a varied diet, and switching foods can prove to save a lot of money on veterinary care over the course of a dogs life.
So remember: a diet with a wide variety of proteins makes for a happy and HEALTHY pet, and can prevent dietary insensitivities down the road!
Recovery Of Fish Allergies In Dogs
Once you remove fish from your dogs diet, the symptoms should subside in time. It may be several weeks before you see any serious improvements. If your dog has a serious reaction, such as anaphylactic shock, the sooner you seek veterinary care, the better off he will be. If you do not get him veterinary care, he may die.
Since fish is still considered a new protein source, not many dogs are allergic to it yet. If you suspect your dog is one of the few allergic to it, discuss it with your veterinarian. The two of you will come up with a diet plan suitable to your lifestyle and his dietary needs.
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Tools Needed For Cooking Dog Food At Home
- Food Processor: Before I start cooking a batch of homemade dog food, I blend up all the vegetables in my food processor. This Cuisinart food processor is my go-to. Its a bit smaller than traditional food processors but works just as well as a larger model. Blending up the veggies nice and fine will speed up the cooking process.
- Dutch Oven: I make the entire batch in my large Le Creuset round Dutch oven. I love using a Dutch oven because I can ground the meat first, and then finish off the batch right in the same pot. The process is very similar to making chili except for dogs. Ya knowDog Chili. .
- Measuring Cups: Rascal has his own set of measuring cups now because it makes measuring out food ingredients and the finished batch WAY easier.
- Meal Prep Containers: This is basically meal prepping for your dog, so you will need some great Tupperware.
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Do They Have Any Special Dietary Needs
Though the Husky walks the line between being a medium and a large-breed dog, it is a good idea to treat him like a large breed, just to be safe. Large-breed dogs need to have their growth controlled because growing too quickly in early age can lead to an increased risk for bone and joint problems in adulthood. Fortunately, large-breed dog foods are usually supplemented with glucosamine and chondroitin for joint support with controlled levels of calcium and phosphorus for bone health.
Aside from the typical problems you might see in a large-breed dog, the Husky has a few other health issues to think about. Here are some of the other health problems to which the breed is prone:
- Von Willebrands disease
You also need to be mindful of your Huskys risk for bloat, a life-threatening condition also known as gastric dilation volvulus. This happens when the dogs stomach fills with air and twists, cutting off blood flow to essential organs. It can happen when your Husky eats too much at once, eats too fast or swallows too much air while eating. Avoid feeding your dog right before or after strenuous exercise, and consider using a slow-feed bowl to keep him from eating his meals too quickly.
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Entertainment And Information Only Not Veterinary Care
The Dog Bakery blog operates an online information and opinion blog and is for educational and entertainment purposes only. Reading this blog or using any of the information you expressly acknowledge and understand that there are risks and limitations associated with any advice, recipes, formulas, products given.
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What Makes The Best Dog Food For Huskies
Siberian Huskies are born to live in packs, which makes them perfect family dogs. Thats also one of the reasons they are not aggressive canines, as they thrive on company. If you want to own a pet that will share your passion for exercise and the outdoors, Husky is the right choice for you. They are also not overly suspicious of other dogs and dont demonstrate lots of jealousy.
Pet owners need to feed their huskies with raw food, kibble, home-cooked food, or make combinations. Whatever you choose, make sure you find the top-quality and well-balanced diet for your pooch. Huskies are unique dogs who have specific dietary needs, and its important to find husky dog food brands that are specially made for your dog breed.
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Instinct Raw Boost Large Breed Puppy Recipe
First 5 Ingredients: Chicken, Chicken Meal, Turkey Meal, Peas, Chickpeas
This nutritionally-dense dog food is designed to support puppyhood growth. It is a solid source of animal protein with chicken, chicken meal, and turkey meal leading the ingredient list, plus appetizing morsels of freeze-dried raw and cage-free chicken.
Aside from the chicken and turkey meal ingredients, the dog food also contains menhaden fish meal, lamb meal, and freeze-dried chicken organs to give it an extra boost of natural flavor.
These nutritionally-packed nuggets offer a hassle-free way to offer Husky puppies the flavor and nourishment of raw foodplus they add variety to your Siberian Huskys diet.
The dog food recipe incorporates DHA from chicken eggsthis fatty acid helps to support healthy brain and eye development, setting the stage for a healthy adult Siberian Husky. It has salmon oil and chicken fat too to provide your Husky puppy with plenty of omegas
This food is made without grains or corn, soy, or wheat. Its free of byproducts and fillers, as well as any artificial colors and preservatives. Instead, it contains probiotics, antioxidants, calcium, phosphorus, and natural DHA.
| 30% Off at Chewy.com |
- Rich in real animal protein
- Contains morsels of freeze-dried raw chicken
Cons
- Freeze-dried raw nuggets is inconsistent from bag to bag
Customer rating:
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General Husky Diet And Nutrition Requirements
Due to their weight and energy, Huskies need a meal with the right nutrients, protein being the most essential.
They are not big eaters, so you dont have to worry about obesity, but regulate their meals.
For the household Husky with a 50 pounds weight, 1,358 calories will do.
Huskies who work will require more than their companion counterparts. Other factors like age and weight should be considered.
Though they look like wolves, Huskies are not carnivores. Their diet should be balanced with the right nutrients. A poor meal will be detrimental to a Huskys health.
Here are some nutrients Huskies need:
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What Are Dog Allergies
Our immune system works to protect us from the bacteria and viruses that may make us sick. However, in some cases, our immune system improperly labels something as dangerous when it couldnt be safer. Sometimes, this happens with the proteins our dogs make. While our pets dander isnt going to harm us, our immune system thinks it will.
When those with allergies come into contact with dog proteins, their immune system fights it. This creates an immune response, which makes symptoms like sneezing, swelling, itching, and the other symptoms we commonly see with allergic reactions.
There are about six different types of proteins that dogs create. These proteins are found throughout the dogs body. However, the locations that often cause issues for those with allergies are the skin, saliva, and urine.
You can be allergic to just one protein a dog creates, or you can be allergic to more. Most of the time, it doesnt matter. Since all dogs pretty much make all the same proteins, it wouldnt make much difference in which of these proteins you react to.
The only exception to this rule is those that are only allergic to the Can f 5 protein. This protein is only made in a dogs prostate gland. Because only males have prostates, it is absent in females. Therefore, it is possible to be allergic to male dogs and not females. In this case, you would be able to adopt a female Husky without much problem.
The Connection Between Food And Skin Allergies
Huskies are prone to developing food allergies as well, and the reaction to those allergens often appears as skin allergies. Nearly all skin conditions involve itching and discomfort, so if your Husky is excessively rubbing, itching, or gnawing areas of his body, a food allergy may be the reason why.
Food allergies are generally caused by an animal protein usually chicken or beef in some circumstances, dogs become allergic to eggs, milk or corn. A Husky with food intolerances will often have skin inflammations along with digestive disorders.
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Do Older Huskies Need More Protein
Once they age out of puppyhood, adult Siberian huskies should eat a diet thats high in protein, and this is especially true for older huskies. Dogs of all breeds, in fact, typically need to consume more protein than their younger counterparts.
Thats because as a dog ages, it loses muscle mass, which can cause their overall health to decline. Commonly held views from the past suggested that added protein could damage the kidneys, but studies have shown this is not an issue for dogs as it might be for some other animals.
Its always best to consult with your vet, who can provide advice based on your dogs unique needs, but generally, senior huskies should consume at least a quarter of their calories from a protein source.
What Allergies Are Huskies Most Likely To Develop
Food allergies are most likely to affect Siberian huskies, causing intense itching that puts their beautiful coat at risk. Although chicken and beef cause reactions most, milk, eggs, and corn often leave huskies scratching away as well.
As you explore food as a possible cause of the itching, remember that zinc deficiencies often cause similar symptoms in Siberian huskies. Supplements can help resolve the problem, although its best to switch foods as well to help your dog feel better faster.
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Husky Feeding Chart For Puppies
Puppies have a different meal requirement compared to older Huskies. For each stage, you need to know what to feed them.
2 Weeks
The Husky Puppy at 2 weeks can eat nothing more than the mothers milk. At this age, they are not active yet. Mothers milk is all they need to survive.
That said, a Husky pup thats too lean may need some additional puppy formula. Get a vets approval before you do this.
3 Weeks
At 3 weeks, the puppy gets a bit more active, but still depends on the mothers milk and shouldnt be given puppy food.
4 Weeks
Once he gets to 4 weeks, slowly introduce puppy food to his diet. Do not wean him yet, as weaning should be done progressively.
Mix ¼ of puppy food with ¾ water and serve it to him, taking care not to force it in. The 4 weeks pup wont eat much.
5 Weeks
Keep up with the puppy food mixture at 5 weeks. He should be more interested in it, at this point. Feed him 3 to 4 times a day, but do not push it if the pup doesnt finish the meal.
6 Weeks
At 6 weeks, the Husky pup should be more active, and this is the ideal week to start weaning them. Start reducing the water in the mixture till it gets to ¾ puppy food and ¼ water.
7 Weeks
The 7 weeks Husky puppy will need more puppy food and less milk in his diet. Hed be more active and spend less time with his mother. At this age, breeders get them ready for a new home.
8 Weeks
9 Weeks
The 9 weeks Husky pup should be living in a new home and away from his mother, so he needs a lot of puppy food.
10 Weeks
Most Important Factors In Choosing A Dog Food For Huskies
As with any dietary recommendations for dogs, the individual animal is the single most important factor. There are many peculiarities that could be present in your husky that influence your decision, and you can learn more about how they play a role in food choices .
Making food choices for your husky involves weighing a variety of factors.
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Husky Zinc Deficiency & Dry Skin
Zinc-responsive dermatosis, otherwise known as zinc deficiency is a very serious condition and can be fatal. Siberian Huskies and Malamutes, in particular, can be affected by this. Firstly, its important to understand how Zinc deficiency is related to dry skin. When zinc isnt properly absorbed or digested by the body, it can interfere with normal cell division, in turn, this affects the skin causing it to become dry and flaky.What is Zinc deficiency in dogs? Zinc deficiency is when your dog does not have adequate amounts of Zinc in their body.Malabsorption and mal-digestion are responsible for the zinc not entering into their system properly, even if they eat foods high in Zinc. Zinc is the second most used mineral inside your dogs body so when there isnt enough it can lead to many serious health issues.Dry flaky skin and dermatitis can be one of many symptoms of Zinc deficiency. Other symptoms can include digestive issues, disrupted immune system, thyroid gland issues , seizures and organ failure.
Most Popular Husky Dog Food: Taste Of The Wild Sierra Mountain Grain
When you cant decide what to feed your Siberian Husky, you can always go with a popular brand like Taste of the Wild. This brand offers a variety of high-quality grain-free dog foods featuring premium roasted meats and fresh fruits and vegetables. This Taste of the Wild Sierra Mountain Grain-Free Dry Food is loaded with premium animal protein, fresh fruits and vegetables, and healthy fats. It is a single-source protein recipe featuring fresh lamb and lamb meal as well as roasted lamb to provide a total of 25% crude protein. This recipe features grain-free, highly digestible carbohydrates like sweet potatoes and lentils with plenty of fiber for healthy digestion, not to mention probiotic supplements as well. It contains fresh fruits and vegetables like tomatoes, blueberries, and raspberries to act as natural sources for key nutrients with vitamin supplements and chelated minerals for nutritional balance. It also provides a blend of omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids for healthy skin and coat, with a total of 15% fat, 5% fiber, and just 338 calories per cup.
Pros: Single-source of animal protein, highly digestible, fresh fruits and vegetables, blend of omega fatty acids, chelated minerals, probiotics for healthy digestion, complete and balanced
Cons: Could be higher in protein, some dogs dont require a grain-free diet
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Nutro Hearty Stews Adult Natural Wet Dog Food
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Nutro makes great quality dog meals, and this wet dog food would be a good supplement to your huskys dry kibble. The wet stuff isnt usually enough on its own, but it makes a nice addition and also keeps your husky from getting bored.
This grain-free, non-GMO stew contains no poultry by-products or artificial colors, flavors, or preservatives. It also comes in 5 different ingredients, so theres no chance of your husky pup getting bored with this one!
