Hypoallergenic dog food is the saving grace for many dogs in this country. Whether they suffer from food allergies or just sensitivities, dogs can have an immensely improved quality of life when they are put on a hypoallergenic dog food diet. That being said, the world of prescription hypoallergenic dog food can be a bit tricky, so you’ll need your vet’s assistance.
Related: What are The Basic Types of Hypoallergenic Dog Food?
Prescription Hypoallergenic Dog Food – The Ins and Outs
As its name implies, you can only get prescription hypoallergenic dog food from your vet via a prescription. These foods are specially made by companies with years of research under their belts, so you’re not going to get a food that some random person decided would be amazing for your dog. Which brings me to my first point.
Talk to Your Vet
Yep. There it is again. You need your vet’s guidance – and in the case of prescription hypoallergenic dog food, their prescription – when you’re thinking about getting a prescription food. Vets know the different kinds and brands of prescription foods and which ones might work best for your dog.
For example, if you determine that your dog has food sensitivities, a prescription diet like Z/D might work. It uses hydrolyzed soy protein and corn starch for its carb source. This food is geared towards sensitivities and wouldn’t be a good choice for a dog with actual food allergies.
Related: Hypoallergenic Dog Food Ratings – The Five Best for Your Buddy
Decide Which Food is Right for Your Dog
This goes hand in hand with talking to your vet. If your dog has food allergies, your vet will most likely recommend a limited ingredient prescription hypoallergenic diet consisting of something like duck and potato, salmon and green pea, and the like. If your dog only has food sensitivities, you vet might advise a prescription diet more along the line of hydrolyzed protein blends.
You Need a Prescription
Prescription diets need a vet’s prescription. However, just because you need your vet’s prescription doesn’t mean you need to buy the food from your vet. There are many online dog pharmacies that sell prescription hypoallergenic dog food for less than you pay at the vet. Doing a little homework can save you some cash.
It Takes Time
Prescription hypoallergenic food doesn’t work any faster than over the counter food, so you need to give it a good 12 weeks to be sure its working. The benefit of prescription food isn’t in extra speed, it’s in the fact that it’s made by companies with years and years of research and experience under their belts. Vets won’t recommend something that doesn’t work.
Prescription Hypoallergenic Dog Food Could be a Fit
If your dog is showing signs of food allergies or sensitivities, talk to your vet. Bring your dog in and have a thorough exam done to see what’s going on with your dog and what can be done about it. If your dog does have either of these issues, chances are, your vet will recommend a quality prescription hypoallergenic dog food. With these foods, your dog could be on the road to feeling better.
