Why elimination diet does not work?

Elimination diets are often recommended for dogs with suspected food allergies or intolerances, but they can sometimes fail to identify the problem or provide the expected results. Several factors can contribute to the failure of elimination diets in dogs: 

1. Contamination and Cross-Contamination  

Food Cross-Contamination: Commercial pet foods, even those labeled as hypoallergenic, may be processed in facilities that handle multiple ingredients, leading to cross-contamination.

 2. Inconsistent Diet Adherence                                                           

Accidental Feeding: Pets might accidentally consume foods not included in the elimination diet, either from scavenging or being fed by other household members.

3. Hidden Ingredients

Undisclosed Ingredients: Some commercial pet foods and treats may contain hidden ingredients or additives not listed on the label, causing an allergic reaction.

 4. Gut Health Issues

Microbiome Imbalance: An unhealthy gut microbiome can affect digestion and absorption, potentially leading to symptoms that mimic food allergies.

5. Inadequate Trial Duration

Insufficient Time: The elimination phase needs to be long enough to allow for the identification of the allergen. A minimum of 8-12 weeks is typically recommended, but some owners may not follow through for the required duration.

6. Nutritional Deficiencies

Imbalanced Diets: An improperly balanced elimination diet can lead to nutritional deficiencies, affecting overall health and possibly exacerbating symptoms.

7. Incorrect Food Selection

Not Truly Novel: The chosen food ingredients might not be truly novel or hypoallergenic if the dog has been exposed to them previously.

8. Diagnostic Challenges

Incorrect Diagnosis: Misdiagnosis of the underlying issue can lead to an inappropriate diet being chosen. Food allergies and intolerances are often over-diagnosed without proper testing

Conclusion

Accurate diagnosis of the cause of itchiness in dogs requires a comprehensive approach, including thorough history taking, appropriate diagnostic testing, and considering multiple potential causes. Food and environmental allergies aren’t the only reason why your dog is itchy. It can be due to hormonal imbalance, parasites, vitamins and minerals deficiency or  overmedicating and body doesn’t process this properly. Contact us for vitality test to see whats causing your dog itchiness. Don’t let your dog suffer any longer.