Are most dogs allergic to eggs? Tips and Tricks

Symptoms of Egg White Allergies in Dogs

Symptoms of Egg White allergies can manifest differently in each individual dog. Symptoms may include:

  • Ear infection
  • Itching skin
  • Skin infection
  • Obsessive licking or chewing of feet
  • Loss of hair
  • Hives
  • Vomiting
  • Diarrhea
  • Vomiting and diarrhea are symptoms more commonly seen with food intolerance, but it can be an allergic symptom as well.

    Types

    There are multiple brands of eggs out there. There are farm fresh eggs, brown eggs, white eggs, organic eggs, cage free eggs, the list is endless. Many people believe farm fresh eggs, cage free or organic eggs are better since the hen has a more natural diet. While the diet of the hen laying the egg may alter the formation of the egg, the eggs are all basically the same in the end.

    Causes of Egg White Allergies in Dogs

    If your dog has allergies, it is his body’s way of protecting itself from something it thinks will harm it. While the item in question is actually harmless, the body doesn’t recognize it as such. The body finds it dangerous and mounts a protective response to the threat. Every chicken is different, but the process of egg formation is the same in every one. Since the diet of the chicken may vary, it could potentially cause a rare, but possible, allergic reaction to one type of egg brand but not another.

    What is a food allergy?

    A food allergy is one of the most common allergies or hypersensitivities known to affect dogs. In a pet with an allergy, the immune system overreacts and produces antibodies to substances that it would normally tolerate. In an allergic reaction to a food, antibodies are produced against some part of the food, usually a protein or complex carbohydrate. Since antibody production is required for an allergy to develop, food allergies usually manifest after prolonged exposure to one brand, type, or form of food.

    Food Allergy in Dogs: Causes, Diagnosis and Treatment

    Just like humans, dogs can suffer from allergies, and one of the most common triggers is eggs. It’s estimated that around 3% of all dogs suffer from egg allergy! Eggs can trigger a range of different symptoms in dogs, from mild irritation to anaphylactic shock. The reason why eggs may cause allergies in dogs is because of a compound called ovalbumin, which is very similar in structure to the protein in the saliva of dogs and human skin. Ovalbumin (egg white protein) triggers an immune reaction in dogs, causing them to develop antibodies. These antibodies are then free to react with other proteins that appear similar to ovalbumin, such as those found in the skin or fur of your dog. When this happens, the dog may become allergic to eggs, and develop symptoms of allergy. In some cases, dogs with egg allergies can develop continuous skin problems or hair coat changes. Here are top 7 signs of egg allergy in dogs.