Peer-reviewed veterinary case report
How common are food allergies in Italian dogs with skin problems
By Proverbio, D et al.·Published in The Journal of small animal practice·2010·Department of Veterinary Clinical Science, Italy·View original on PubMed →
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Original publication title: Prevalence of adverse food reactions in 130 dogs in Italy with dermatological signs: a retrospective study.
- Species:
- dog
Plain-English summary
A group of 130 dogs with skin problems was examined to find out how many had adverse food reactions (AFRs), which can cause itching and other issues. The study found that 12% of these dogs had AFRs, and the likelihood was higher in dogs with allergic conditions and those who had undergone a dietary trial. Notably, dogs that showed symptoms before one year of age were more likely to have AFRs. German Shepherds with perianal fistulas were particularly affected, showing a strong link to food reactions. Understanding these connections can help pet owners manage their dogs' skin issues more effectively.
People also search for: dog skin problems food allergies · German Shepherd perianal fistula treatment · why is my dog itching after eating
Abstract
OBJECTIVES: To determine the prevalence of adverse food reactions (AFRs) in dogs with dermatological signs presented to the referral dermatological clinic of the University of Milan. METHODS: The medical records of dogs with dermatological signs were reviewed. Prevalence of AFRs was calculated. Owner and clinician pruritus scores were compared. Breed, sex and age predisposition were statistically tested, as was the association between AFR and selected clinical features. RESULTS: The prevalence of AFRs in dogs with dermatological signs was 12% (16 of 130). AFR was diagnosed in 26% of dogs with allergic disease and 48% of those subjected to a dietary trial. There was a significant association between AFRs and early onset of clinical signs (< 1 year) (OR=3.8; P=0.0221, 95% CI=1.27 to 11.16). There was a significant association between AFRs and both otitis externa (OR=5.9; P=0.0015, 95% CI=2 to 17.9) and perianal fistula (OR=26.1; P=0.0058, 95% CI=2.52 to 269.4), although all dogs with perianal fistulas were German shepherd dogs. CLINICAL SIGNIFICANCE: The prevalence of AFRs in the study population was higher than most reported values. Further studies are warranted to investigate the true prevalence of AFR and its possible association with perianal fistula and other potential markers.
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Search related cases →Original publication on PubMed: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/20536692/