Choosing Treats for Pets with Allergies

Treating your dog to something special is one of the best ways to show them love, especially when those treats come from dog bakery like Treats Unleashed. But before you fill your fridge with goodies or stock that treat cabinet with an array of choices (made with an ever larger array of ingredients), it's essential to ensure that what you're giving your furry friend is not only delicious but also safe, especially if your beloved pup has food allergies. 

If you don’t know if your dog has allergies, you might feel a little lost (or maybe even anxious) about introducing anything new into your pup’s diet. However, there are tips to navigating the myriad of choices available in our bakery and on our store shelves. 

Here’s your creative guide to spotting dog food allergies and choosing safe, tail-wagging treats:

Recognizing Food Allergies in Dogs

Just like humans, dogs can have food allergies, but they can sometimes be tricky to spot, especially the first time. After all, our canine companions can’t talk to us like we might talk to a doctor if we were experiencing discomfort. If you notice any of these signs after your dog has eaten, it might be time to reconsider what’s on their menu.

• Itchy Skin: Constant scratching, licking, or biting at the skin, especially around the face, paws, or ears, is a red flag. 

• Tummy Troubles: If your dog frequently has diarrhea, gas, or vomiting after eating, they could be allergic to something in their food.

• Ear Infections: Recurring ear infections, particularly in breeds with floppy ears, can sometimes be linked to food allergies.

• Behavioral Changes: Allergies can also cause irritability or restlessness in dogs, making them more anxious or less playful than usual. In some, this can even manifest as sudden destructive behavior, such as tearing up furniture or toys.

It is important to speak with your veterinarian if you think your dog may have a food allergy. They can help you figure out what’s causing the issue and recommend a diet that keeps your pup feeling great.

Choosing Safe Treats for Allergic Dogs

Once you’ve identified your dog has a food allergy, it’s time to become a label-reading pro. If you’re shopping for treats at Treats Unleashed, all of our bakers are well versed in all the ingredients that go into each one of our treats and cakes. After all, they’re all made by-hand and on-site by our staff with no sneaky additions or filler. 

Whether you’re picking up a treat from a dog bakery or the pet store, here’s what to look out for.

• Avoid Common Allergens: Some of the most common allergens for dogs include wheat, soy, corn, and specific proteins like beef, chicken, and dairy. If your dog has a known allergy, steer clear of these ingredients. 

• Look for Limited Ingredients: The simpler, the better. Treats with just a few high-quality ingredients are less likely to trigger an allergic reaction. Think of single-protein sources and natural, whole foods. When looking at ingredients, remember to read the entire list! You can always ask a Treats Unleashed staff member if you're unsure what something means.

• Grain-Free Doesn’t Always Mean Safe: While grain-free treats are popular, they’re not automatically allergy-proof. Some grain-free options use alternative ingredients that could still be problematic for your dog. Always read the label!

• Consider Hypoallergenic Treats: These are designed specifically for dogs with food allergies and are usually made with novel proteins (like duck or venison) and carbohydrate sources (like sweet potatoes or peas) your dog hasn’t been exposed to before.

Dog Bakery Tips: What to Ask and Look For

When you’re shopping for your pup at a bakery, it’s easy to get swept away by the adorable, Instagram-worthy treats that are baked fresh and still warm from the oven. But before you buy, ensure the bakery prioritizes your dog’s health as much as their taste buds.

• Ask About Ingredients: Ask your bakery to break down the ingredient list so you can spot any potential allergens. Treats Unleashed staff are happy to answer any and all questions about what goes into each item we make in our kitchen. In addition to providing helpful information, our team can also provide swaps or recommendations based on what your pup can and can not consume. If one type of treat won't work, there is a great chance something else will, and our team of baking pros is ready and willing to help you find it.

• Go Organic and Natural: Look for bakeries like Treats Unleashed that use organic and natural ingredients. These are less likely to contain harmful additives or fillers that could upset your dog’s stomach. 

• Freshness Counts: Because dog bakery treats are often made fresh without preservatives, they might have a shorter shelf life. This includes baked goods at Treats unleashed. Everything made in our kitchens is made with all-natural, human-grade ingredients. All Treats Unleashed baked goods have their own recommended shelf life, because they aren’t packed with artificial preservatives and additives.  When you buy a freshly baked treat, cake or cupcake from TU, you are getting something made in a kitchen that’s meant to be enjoyed, not something that’s time-tested to sit on shelves the longest. Goodies like our Pumpkin Pies for Pets require refrigeration right up until serving time to prevent spoilage, because of all the moisture from the real pumpkin and other fresh ingredients.

Buy Safe Treats for Your Dogs

Navigating the world of dog bakeries and treats can feel like a big task, especially when you’re dealing with food allergies. 

But with a little knowledge and a keen eye for ingredients, you can keep your dog happy and healthy. Whether you’re buying from the pet-baking pros at Treats Unleashed or whipping up something special at home, safe and delicious treats are within reach!