How can you tell if a dog is allergic to chicken

By Isabella Storyclaire

last updated September 16, 2024

Contributions sourced from

Chicken allergy in dogs: Vet reveals everything you need to know

While still fairly uncommon, a chicken allergy in dogs can lead to a range of uncomfortable symptoms, including skin rashes and stomach upsets. If your pup is unlucky enough to be among the small percentage of pups with a digestive system that can't tolerate poultry, you're likely wondering what can be done about it.

However, before you go swapping your canine companion over to the best dog food for allergies, it's important to get a proper diagnosis from a vet.

That's because changing dog food needs to be done slowly and carefully to avoid upsetting the balance of bacteria in your dog's intestines. Once you know for sure that a chicken allergy is causing your pup's health complaints you can work with your vet to formulate a plan.

Below, Dr. Catherine Barnette explains the main symptoms of a chicken allergy and shares her favorite prescription foods for dogs who can't eat chicken. Plus, Dr. Hannah Godfrey outlines exactly how your vet will go about testing your fur friend for a chicken allergy so you know what to expect.

Dr. Catherine Barnette

Dr. Barnette graduated from the University of Florida in 2006 where she received both her B.S. in Zoology and her Doctor of Veterinary Medicine (DVM). She has 15 years of clinical experience as a small animal veterinarian, treating dogs, cats, and occasional exotic patients. When shes not writing content as a freelance veterinary writer, Dr. Barnette lives in southwest Florida with her husband and daughter (plus two cats, a dog, and a rescued dove!) and enjoys kayaking, biking, and hiking.

Dr Hannah Godfrey studied Veterinary Medicine at the Royal Veterinary College London. After graduating in 2011, Dr Godfrey went on to become a veterinary surgeon, conducting surgery consultations on a range of animals at a small independent practice in Cardiff, South Wales, UK. Dr Godfrey has a strong interest in soft tissue surgery. When shes not helping animals back on their feet, Dr Godfrey writes a number of veterinary and animal-focussed articles.

What causes allergies in dogs?

"Allergies in dogs occur when their immune system overreacts to a substance, recognizing it as a threat when it is actually harmless," explains Godfrey. "The cells within the immune system will remember this substance and will continue to react if exposed to it in the future. Dogs can be allergic to almost any substance, but pollen, food allergies, and parasites are reasonably common."

Can dogs be allergic to chicken?

"Dogs can be allergic to chicken," Godfrey says. "Chicken is one of the most common food allergies in dogs, alongside beef and dairy products. However, to be allergic to chicken, their immune system must be familiar with the protein, so a dog must have eaten it at least once before."

Symptoms of chicken allergy in dogs

(Image credit: Getty Images)

If you've been asking the question 'why is my dog itching, scratching, and biting himself constantly?', a food allergy may well be to blame.

Food allergies are often clinically indistinguishable from other types of canine allergies. There are four common allergies in dogs: dust mite allergy, environmental allergies (tree, weed, and grass pollen), flea allergy, and food allergy.

While there may be slight differences in the signs between these different types of allergies (for example, you may see visible fleas in a dog with flea allergies or you may notice seasonal signs in a dog with pollen allergies), it is nearly impossible to distinguish the cause of your dogs allergies based on appearance alone.

In dogs, nearly all allergies manifest as irritation of the skin and ears (check out our guide to skin allergies in dogs for more on how a food allergy can affect the skin and coat). Common signs of dog allergies include:

Generalized redness of the skin
Itching
Chewing at the paws
Hair loss (generalized or patchy)
Frequent hot spots or skin infections
Scratching at the ears
Recurrent ear infections
Less commonly, food allergies may trigger gastrointestinal signs, such as vomiting and diarrhea.

If your vet suspects your dog has allergies, they will recommend an appropriate diagnostic workup to determine the cause of your pets allergies. This workup may include the consistent use of the best flea treatment for dogs (to rule out flea allergies), intradermal or blood allergy testing (to rule out environmental allergies), and a food trial (to look for evidence of food allergies).

In a food trial, you will be asked to feed your dog a hypoallergenic prescription diet for a period of 2-3 months. During that time, you will need to avoid all treats and table food, to ensure that your dog is not being exposed to any potential food allergens. If your dogs signs resolve during the food trial, you and your veterinarian can safely assume that your dogs allergies are caused by something in your dogs diet.

Next, you will begin gradually reintroducing different food items, in an effort to determine which ingredients trigger an allergic response in your dog. If you feed chicken, for example, and your dog begins itching within 24 hours, you can safely assume that your dog is allergic to chicken.

Why are so many dogs allergic to chicken?

A chicken allergy is one of the three common food allergies in pets. Beef and dairy are the most common food allergy triggers in dogs, with chicken coming in at number three on that list.

Dogs can develop an allergy to any protein that they have eaten. Historically, most dog foods were made with beef as the primary protein source. Therefore, most canine food allergies were associated with beef, because thats the protein that the immune system had seen the most often.

In recent years, however, an increasing number of chicken-based diets have been created, often marketed as sensitive skin or sensitive stomach foods. Therefore, veterinarians are seeing an increase in the number of dogs with chicken allergies. If kangaroo meat were to suddenly become a common ingredient in dog food, we would likely see an increasing number of dogs with kangaroo allergies. Dogs can develop a food allergy to any protein they have been fed.

If a dog is allergic to chicken, are they allergic to turkey?

(Image credit: Getty)

Chicken and turkey are both poultry. There are enough similarities between these birds that some dogs with chicken allergies will also react to turkey. In fact, some dogs with chicken allergies will even react to duck.

However, this isnt always the case. Some chicken-allergic dogs can eat turkey or duck with no problems. Therefore, you may need to experiment with a bit of trial-and-error in order to determine whether your dog can tolerate a turkey-based diet.

If you want to be on the safe side and minimize the risk of an allergic reaction, it is probably best to avoid feeding turkey to a dog that is allergic to chicken.

Diagnosing a chicken allergy

"Blood and skin prick tests can help diagnose a chicken allergy in your dog, but these tests can be costly and take some time," Godfrey explains. "They may also show inconclusive results, which can be frustrating. Eliminating chicken from your dog's diet completely for eight weeks (known as an elimination diet) can allow you to see whether your dog's symptoms improve, but this will only work if you check the ingredients on all of their food and treats."

Best food for dogs with chicken allergies

If your dog has chicken allergies, you will need to find a nutritious, balanced dog food that does not include chicken meat, chicken meal, or chicken by-products. You may opt to feed a prescription diet (under the guidance of your veterinarian) or search for an over-the-counter diet.

The most highly-restricted diets will be prescription diets as opposed to the best dry dog food and the best wet dog food that you can buy off the shelf. These include products like Hill's Prescription Diet d/d Skin/Food Sensitivities Potato & Venison Formula Dry Dog Food or Royal Canin Veterinary Diet Hydrolyzed Protein HP Dry Dog Food. Prescription allergy diets are manufactured on dedicated manufacturing lines, reducing the risk of cross-contamination, and careful attention to ingredients. Your veterinarian can help you select the most appropriate prescription diet for your pet.

You can also attempt to use an over-the-counter diet that does not contain any chicken, such as Purina Pro Plan Adult Sensitive Skin & Stomach Salmon & Rice Formula Dry Dog Food. Over-the-counter diets are often less expensive than prescription diets, which may make this an appealing option for some dog owners. Be aware, however, that these diets may be made on the same manufacturing lines that are used to create chicken-based diets. (This is why they are often less expensive.) Depending on the severity of your dogs chicken allergies, even a small amount of cross-contamination may be enough to trigger an allergic reaction.

How common are food allergies in dogs?

"Its much more common for dogs to experience allergy symptoms due to environmental allergens like pollen from trees and plants, or parasites like fleas and mites than food allergens," Godfrey says. "While its not easy to control the symptoms caused by any allergy, it's easier to keep your dog away from food allergens than pollen and other environmental allergens."

A chicken allergy in dogs can be a frustrating condition, but there are ways to manage it successfully. Work with your veterinarian to accurately diagnose the underlying cause of your dogs skin issues, then come up with an appropriate plan to minimize your dogs exposure to foods that trigger an allergic response. With long-term efforts and maintenance, you can minimize the frequency of flare-ups and successfully reduce your dogs signs of allergic dermatitis.

For more on what foods are safe for your canine companion to consume, check out our guide to what human food can dogs eat where a vet explains which foods you can share with your pooch.

How to Know if Dog is Allergic to Chicken [10 Hints]

Lets discuss how to know if dog is allergic to chicken

If youre reading this, chances are youre concerned about your furry friends health and well-being. Well, youve come to the right place, because today were diving into a common canine conundrum: chicken allergies.

Just like us, our four-legged buddies can have allergies too, and chicken happens to be a particularly sneaky culprit. But fear not! In this blog post, well walk you through some telltale signs and share expert tips on how to know if your dog is allergic to chicken.

How to Know if Dog is Allergic to Chicken

To determine if a dog is allergic to chicken, observe any signs of adverse reactions after consumption such as itching, skin rashes, hives, vomiting, or diarrhea.

Conduct an elimination diet by removing chicken from the dogs diet for at least 36 weeks, monitoring for improvements.

Reintroduce chicken, and if allergic reactions reappear, consult a veterinarian for confirmation and explore alternative protein sources.

Lets dive deeper for a better understanding

Symptoms of Chicken Allergy in Dogs

The following are some of the most common symptoms of chicken allergy in dogs:

1. Skin Irritation and Itching

When a dog is allergic to chicken, their immune system perceives certain proteins in chicken as harmful invaders. This triggers an inflammatory response, leading to skin irritation and intense itching.

Your furry companion may scratch, lick, or chew their paws, belly, or any other body part affected by the allergy. The constant scratching can further aggravate the skin, causing it to become red, inflamed, and sensitive to the touch. In some cases, your dog may even develop hot spots, which are painful and moist skin lesions.

Learn more about dog licking.

2. Chronic Gas and Bloating

If your furry friend is allergic to chicken, you may notice that they become gassier than usual after consuming chicken-based meals.

The allergenic response in their digestive system can cause excessive gas production, leading to discomfort and bloating. This bloating can be particularly uncomfortable for dogs and may cause them to appear restless and unable to settle comfortably.

3. Swollen or Hives

In some instances, dogs with chicken allergies may experience a more severe allergic reaction, resulting in the development of hives or facial swelling. Hives, also known as urticaria, are raised, red welts on the skin that are often itchy and can appear suddenly.

Swelling, especially around the eyes, lips, or muzzle, can be a sign of a serious allergic reaction called angioedema. If you notice any of these symptoms, its crucial to seek immediate veterinary attention, as severe allergic reactions can be life-threatening.

4. Paw Chewing and Licking

Dogs with chicken allergies may also show signs of discomfort by excessively chewing and licking their paws. The skin on their paws can become red, swollen, or irritated due to the allergic response, prompting them to seek relief through constant licking and chewing.

Over time, this behavior can lead to secondary infections and further exacerbate their allergy-related symptoms.

5. Lethargy and Fatigue

Allergic reactions can take a toll on a dogs overall well-being, leaving them feeling tired and lethargic. The immune response against chicken proteins can cause systemic inflammation, leaving your dog drained of energy and enthusiasm.

If your typically active pet seems unusually sluggish or uninterested in activities they once enjoyed, it could be a sign of a chicken allergy.

6. Gastrointestinal Distress

One of the most distressing symptoms of chicken allergy in dogs is gastrointestinal upset. When your dog ingests chicken and their body recognizes it as an allergen, it activates an immune response that can lead to vomiting, diarrhea, or frequent and loose bowel movements.

The severity of the symptoms can vary from mild to severe, depending on your dogs sensitivity to chicken proteins. Persistent gastrointestinal distress can lead to dehydration, making it essential to monitor your pets fluid intake during such episodes.

7. Recurring Ear Infections

Chicken allergies can affect the ears as well, leading to recurrent ear infections. The immune systems response to chicken proteins can cause inflammation and increased production of earwax, creating an ideal environment for bacterial or yeast infections to thrive.

You might notice your dog constantly shaking their head, scratching at their ears, or even rubbing their ears against furniture to alleviate the discomfort. The presence of a foul odor from the ears is another telltale sign of an ear infection related to chicken allergy.

8. Respiratory Problems

Respiratory issues can be another alarming symptom of chicken allergy in dogs. The allergens present in chicken can trigger inflammation in the respiratory system, leading to coughing, wheezing, or difficulty breathing.

If your dog exhibits any of these symptoms shortly after consuming chicken, its essential to contact your veterinarian promptly.

9. Hair Loss or Thinning Coat

The persistent itching and scratching caused by a chicken allergy can lead to hair loss or a thinning coat.

Dogs may scratch and bite at their skin so intensely that they inadvertently cause hair to fall out. The affected areas may become visibly sparse, and the skin beneath can appear red and irritated.

10. Runny Eyes and Nose

Just like humans, dogs can exhibit symptoms of a runny nose and watery eyes when exposed to allergens like chicken.

The immune systems response to the allergen can lead to increased mucus production, resulting in watery eyes and a runny nose. You might notice your dog pawing at their eyes or sneezing more frequently.

Learn more about dog sick symptoms.

How to Diagnose Chicken Allergy in Dogs

To diagnose a chicken allergy in dogs, the following steps are typically taken:

Observe Symptoms: Look for signs of allergic reactions, such as itching, redness, swelling, hives, ear infections, gastrointestinal issues, or respiratory problems after the dog consumes chicken-based products.
Elimination Diet: Implement an elimination diet, which involves removing all chicken from the dogs diet for a set period, usually around 8-12 weeks. Monitor the dogs symptoms during this time.
Reintroduction: If the symptoms improve during the elimination diet, reintroduce chicken gradually to the dogs diet and observe for any allergic reactions.
Veterinary Consultation: Throughout the process, its crucial to work with a veterinarian to properly diagnose the allergy and rule out other potential health issues.
Allergy Testing: In some cases, your vet may recommend allergy testing, such as blood tests or intradermal skin tests, to identify specific allergens.

Remember, only a veterinarian can provide an accurate diagnosis and guide you through the appropriate management and treatment for your dogs allergies.

Tips for Managing Chicken Allergy in Dogs

Managing chicken allergies in dogs can be challenging, but there are several tips that can help you effectively manage this condition. Here are some common tips for managing chicken allergy in dogs:

Avoid feeding chicken: The most crucial step in managing a chicken allergy is to avoid feeding your dog any chicken or chicken products. This includes raw, cooked, and processed chicken-based foods.
Check food labels: When purchasing commercial dog food or treats, carefully read the labels to ensure they do not contain chicken or any chicken-derived ingredients. Look for alternative protein sources like lamb, beef, or fish.
Home-cooked meals: Consider preparing homemade meals for your dog to have complete control over the ingredients. This way, you can avoid chicken entirely and provide alternative protein sources.
Consultation with a veterinarian: If your dog has been diagnosed with a chicken allergy, consult with a veterinarian who can provide guidance specific to your dogs needs. They may recommend alternative protein sources and appropriate supplements.
Allergen testing: In some cases, allergy testing can help identify specific sensitivities in dogs. Discuss the possibility of allergy testing with your veterinarian to gain better insight into your dogs specific allergens.
Treats and snacks: Be cautious with store-bought treats and snacks. Many commercial treats contain chicken by-products or flavorings. Look for alternative, hypoallergenic treats or make homemade treats using allergen-free ingredients.
Avoid cross-contamination: Take precautions to avoid cross-contamination in your dogs food. Ensure that the utensils, bowls, and food storage containers used for chicken-based foods are thoroughly cleaned before using them for other foods.
Monitor for hidden sources: Chicken can be found in unexpected places, such as certain supplements, medications, or even pet shampoos. Keep a close eye on the ingredients list of any products you use on or give to your dog.
Regular monitoring: Keep an eye on your dog for any signs of allergic reactions, such as itching, gastrointestinal upset, or respiratory problems. If you notice any symptoms, consult with your veterinarian promptly.

Remember, every dog is different, and the severity of chicken allergies can vary. Working closely with your veterinarian and being mindful of your dogs diet and environment will help you effectively manage chicken allergies in your furry friend.

Alternative Protein Sources for Dogs

Dogs with chicken allergies need protein sources that wont trigger adverse reactions. Some excellent alternatives include:

Lamb: Easily digestible and less likely to cause allergies.
Turkey: Rich in protein and low in fat.
Fish: Provides omega-3 fatty acids, benefiting skin and coat health.

Homemade Dog Food Recipes for Chicken-Allergic Dogs

Here are two simple and nutritious homemade dog food recipes for dogs with chicken allergies:

Turkey and Sweet Potato Delight

Here are some tips:

1 cup cooked ground turkey
1/2 cup mashed sweet potatoes
1/4 cup peas
1 tablespoon olive oil
Mix all ingredients and serve after cooling.

Salmon and Quinoa Feast

Here are some tips:

1 cup cooked salmon (deboned and skinless)
1/2 cup cooked quinoa
1/4 cup carrots (chopped)
1/4 cup green beans (chopped)
1 teaspoon fish oil
Combine all ingredients and serve once cooled.

Conclusion

In conclusion, if you suspect that your furry friend may be allergic to chicken, its crucial to pay attention to any signs or symptoms they may exhibit. From digestive issues to skin irritations, these red flags shouldnt be ignored.

Consult a veterinarian to get a proper diagnosis and discuss possible alternative protein sources for your pups diet. Remember, every dog is unique, and what works for one may not work for another.

By being observant and proactive, you can ensure your canine companions health and happiness. So, dont chicken out! Take action and give your furry friend the best care they deserve.