Allergic Pups: Understanding and Navigating Dog Treat Allergies

As dog owners or what we call, Fur Moms, we love to spoil our fur babies with delicious treats to show them our affection. However, just like humans, dogs can have allergies too, and certain types of dog treats can trigger unwanted reactions.

Let me tell you more about my experience in handling our dog named Bear with dog treat allergies.  While starting to train Bear with soft treats when he was a pup, we notice a rash develop.  It was very disconcerting and scarry having a health issue so early on and only days into him joining our family. Once Bear’s rash subsided and his skin healed we started reintroducing things and discovered it was the treats!  So now what were we supposed to do?  How do you train a food motivated dog using positive reinforcement without high value treats?  Angie, my son's girlfriend, had an idea (she’s full of them, she even came up with Bear’s name) let’s make our own dog’s treats!  We love to bake so why not??  

And that’s where it all started, countless recipes, tweaks, varieties, shapes and styles have brought us to where our company, Tater Bear Treats is now.  Our all-natural home baked small batch treats are made by us dog moms for all fur babies right here in New Jersey!  We use all natural ingredients that we ourselves would eat and no preservatives or additives.  And I have yet to meet a dog that doesn’t like at least a few of the varieties we offer!

You can shop our all natural dog treats, all natural dog toys, and so much more here on our page bit.ly/taterbeartreats .

In this blog post, we'll explore the topic of dog treat allergies, learn how to identify them, and discover alternative treat options that are safe and enjoyable for our allergic pups.

1. Understanding Dog Treat Allergies: Dog treat allergies occur when a dog's immune system overreacts to certain ingredients present in the treats. The most common allergens for dogs include grains (such as wheat, corn, and soy), proteins (such as chicken, beef, or fish), and artificial additives. Symptoms of treat allergies can vary and may include skin irritations, gastrointestinal issues, and respiratory problems. It's essential to recognize these signs and consult with a veterinarian for proper diagnosis and treatment.

2. Identifying Safe Treat Options: When you have a dog with treat allergies, it's crucial to read labels carefully and select treats that are free from the specific allergens. Look for hypoallergenic treats that are grain-free and made with limited ingredients. Treats made from novel proteins like duck, venison, or kangaroo can be a great alternative for dogs allergic to more common proteins like chicken or beef. Additionally, treats that are free from artificial colors, flavors, and preservatives are generally safer for sensitive dogs.

3. Homemade Treats: One way to ensure the safety of your allergic pup's treats is by making them at home or have a trusted brand that offers all natural ingredients in their treats. By doing so, you have complete control over the ingredients used. There are numerous recipes available online for homemade dog treats using allergen-free ingredients like oat flour, sweet potatoes, pumpkin, and coconut oil. These treats not only cater to your dog's allergies but also provide a healthier and more wholesome option.

4. Natural Treat Alternatives: If you prefer store-bought treats, there are natural alternatives available that cater to dogs with allergies. Look for treats made with limited ingredients and high-quality proteins, such as single-source protein treats made from novel meats. Additionally, there are a variety of hypoallergenic treats made with alternative ingredients like fruits, vegetables, and natural herbs. These treats can provide a flavorful and safe snacking experience for your pup.

5. Allergen-Free Chews: Chewing is not only enjoyable for dogs but can also contribute to their dental health. However, some dogs with treat allergies may also have sensitivities to certain chews. To cater to their needs, consider allergen-free chews made from materials like nylon, rubber, or natural fibers. These chews are free from common allergens and provide a safe and long-lasting chewing experience for your pup.

Having a dog with treat allergies doesn't mean you can't provide them with enjoyable and safe snacking options. By understanding the allergens that trigger your pup's reactions and making informed choices, you can find treats that are both delicious and suitable for their dietary needs. Whether you opt for homemade treats or carefully selected store-bought alternatives, the health and happiness of your allergic pup will always come first.

Remember to consult with your veterinarian for guidance and recommendations specific to your dog's allergies, ensuring they can still indulge in tasty treats without any unwanted side effects.

Our all-natural home baked small batch treats are made by dog moms for all fur babies right here in NJ!

These treats are for occasional snacking and are not meant to replace your pup’s regular diet - But they are lots of fun!

Our treats are made with all natural ingredients and no preservatives or additives.