best dog food for pitbulls with skin issues
Maintenance Formula Dog Food
Written By: Tiffany Ruiz Dasilva, VMD, cVMA | Professional Services Veterinarian, Wild Earth
October is National Pit Bull Awareness Month which means its time to celebrate these affectionate and loyal companions that are often mislabeled.
If you are a pittie parent, you know just how amazing these dogs are and you also know that these breeds can be prone to skin issues. Part of celebrating our pittie pups is making sure we keep them happy and healthy, and sometimes it can be a challenge to find ways to help make them more comfortable.
Keep reading to find out everything you need to know about pit bull allergies, and what you can do to help your fur baby.
Pit Bull Skin Conditions
We know that breeds such as the American Pit Bull Terrier and Staffordshire Terrier, are prone to skin conditions, allergies and subsequent skin infections. This is because pit bulls have short fur and do not have a protective undercoat, making their skin vulnerable to environmental allergens and irritants. Genetics also play a role as many skin and coat health conditions are hereditary.
Uncontrollable scratching, excessive licking, paw chewing, ear infections and skin infections are very common symptoms that can occur secondary to allergies, and if left untreated, they can quickly get out of control. Just as with all dogs, Pit Bulls experience three main types of allergies food allergy, flea allergy, and environmental or contact allergy. Keeping track of what time of year your pittie is itchy, and what symptoms they develop will go a long way to determining the type of allergy.
Improve Skin Allergies With Wild Earth Dog FoodFood Allergens
Believe it or not, your Pit Bulls allergy symptoms might be from the food theyre eating. The animal-based ingredients in dog food (beef, dairy, chicken, lamb, egg, pork, fish, and rabbit) are responsible for over 3 times as many food allergy cases as the plant-based ingredients. According to a study on PubMed.gov, after five weeks of their dog patients starting an elimination diet, more than 80% of patients had achieved a remission of clinical signs of CAFR
That means your dogs allergies could be eliminated just by changing what they eat, namely by removing those common food allergens, so consider switching their dog food. 86% of customers reported a positive health benefit for their dog after switching to Wild Earth dog food!
Try switching to Wild Earth Dog Food and adding in our Skin & Coat Dog Supplements to improve your dogs allergies!
If your pup does suffer from food allergies, make sure to eliminate all other sources of animal-based protein, including treats and table scraps. Our Wild Earth treats are a great way to treat your dog, without the itch! Try one of our flavors - Banana and Cinnamon, Strawberry and Beet, or Peanut Butter.
Environmental Allergens
Pit Bulls can be sensitive to irritants in their environment as they have short fur and dont have a thick undercoat to protect their skin like many other breeds. This means that their skin comes into contact with environmental irritants more often, including grasses and pollen, which can easily be picked up on walks. To help protect your pup from these common allergens, wipe down their paws and bellies after walks with a damp towel.
Other possible environmental allergens can be found in the home, for example dust mites, and contact allergens can include anything your dog comes into contact with, including household cleaning products, detergents, and shampoos. If you suspect your dog is suffering from environmental allergies, speak to your veterinarian. You can also help by changing your HVAC filters regularly, and using powerful air purifiers indoors.
Flea Allergic Dermatitis
Flea allergies, or flea allergic dermatitis (FAD), is the most common dermatologic disease of dogs in the United States. The allergy is to flea saliva so just one bite from a flea can cause an allergic reaction. An important step in ruling out the cause of your dogs itch is to make sure your pet is on a year-round prescription flea preventative prescribed by your veterinarian.
Zinc-Responsive Dermatosis
If your Pit Bull starts to develop dry, scaly skin, it may be caused by zinc-responsive dermatosis. This is a common disorder in pit bulls, which can develop at a young age. The issue occurs when dogs dont get enough zinc in their diets, or cannot digest it properly. Its a main reason weve added zinc to our Skin & Coat supplements.
Signs of zinc deficiency include red, hairless, scaling, crusting, or oozing skin around the mouth, eyes, ears, and chin or lesions on the nose and foot pads. If your dog is experiencing these symptoms, please consult with your veterinarian.
Parasites
Another reason that your dog may be suffering from itchy skin is due to parasites. Parasites such as mange and mites can cause itchy, red skin, and frequent scratching. Unfortunately, pit bulls are the most common breeds in US shelters, and they tend to stay in shelters longer, leading to stress, which decreases the immune system, and makes them more susceptible to mange.
Try Wild Earth Dog Food 30% OffGenetic Conditions
Genetically, pit bulls are prone to skin issues, and can inherit hereditary skin conditions such as zinc deficiency, mentioned above, ichthyosis, and some types of dermatitis.
Infections
Allergies cause chronic inflammation and decrease the skin barrier, so coupled with scratching or licking, can lead to infections, which need to be treated. If your pittie has areas of reddish brown discoloration on their fur, for example, this could indicate a yeast infection. If you suspect your pittie has a skin infection, speak with your veterinarian.
We love Pitties! But, sometimes they need a little help with their skin issues
Keep An Eye On Your Pit Bull!
We love our pets like family and hate to see them uncomfortable. The reality is, Pit Bulls are more susceptible to skin irritations and allergies than some other breeds. Fortunately, by keeping an eye on their activity, watching how they react to their diet, bathing them as directed, and giving them a supplement if you think they need extra support, can go a long way toward helping them live a more comfortable life!
Tiffany Ruiz Dasilva, VMD, cVMA
Dr. Tiffany Ruiz Dasilva is the Professional Services Veterinarian here at Wild Earth. She received her Bachelor of Science degree in Biology from Brown University, and attended veterinary school at the University of Pennsylvania School of Veterinary Medicine. Since graduation, she has worked in general practice, on telehealth platforms, and in animal rehabilitation. She has worked tirelessly to gain expertise in the field of canine nutrition through numerous certifications and coursework, and plans to pursue her Masters in Animal Nutrition.
The Best Dog Food for Pitbulls with Skin Allergies
Skin problems can get in the way of a hearty meal. No matter how nutritious your choice of dog food is, your Pittys allergies should always be factored in. The best dog food for Pitbulls with skin allergies is the best pick here. Aside from ensuring that your doggo gets the right nutrition, this food will also prevent the onset of irritations.
Pitbulls are prone to various allergies, especially those associated with their skin. Their thin coat is one reason why they are susceptible to irritations aside from other internal factors.
The type of food you serve for your Pitbull is crucial in dodging skin allergies. Some doggos tend to develop skin irritations due to various food ingredients. So before you purchase another bag of kibble, heres what you need to know:
Why Pitbulls are prone to skin allergies
Since these burly doggos are short-haired, they have a lower defense against allergens. They are also common victims of dermatological problems. Some of the typical culprits are mundane substances like pollen, sunlight, grass, and skin parasites.
Most of the allergens are environment-related. However, the detergent you use in washing the dog bedding or the Pitty shampoo can be allergens too. Contact allergy is common among Pitbulls but this can worsen when combined with other irritants.
As you see, dog allergy is a very diverse topic. One substance can be an allergen to a specific dog but not for the other. This means your pet needs customized attention when it comes to grooming, and most of all, their diet.
If your doggo is starting to scratch and developing hotspots, its time to take him to the vet for a check-up.
Take note, though, that theres a fine line between allergies and intolerances. Allergies occur when your dogs immune system mistakenly identifies a certain substance as a hazard. Meanwhile, intolerance is all in the gut. When your dog cant digest a certain substance, its not right to tag it as an allergy.
The best diet for Pitbull with allergies
The Association of American Feed Control Officials(AFFCO) recommends that you feed an adult dog with 18% protein. For puppies, protein consistency should be higher at 22%. However, addressing skin allergy isnt just about having the skin allergy food for Pitbulls with high protein levels. There are more aspects to consider in order to prevent the condition from getting in the way of your dogs life.
Some protein sources can be allergens for Pitbulls. Some doggos could be allergic to beef, fish, lamb, pork, or dairy. Theres no single ingredient that can be considered as allergens unless your Pittys body reacts negatively to it.
For example, your Pitbull could be allergic to salmon but mine isnt. Still, it doesnt mean salmon is something I should avoid.
One way to know what is best and what isnt for your Pitty is to put him on the food for a few weeks. If the pooch starts exhibiting symptoms of allergy, thats the time you should analyze the situation. What are the main ingredients of the food? Which of those are the possible allergens? Once you have an idea, go to the vet and request a patch test for confirmation.
If you dont want to subject your doggo to this experiment, secure discharge samples from the Pittys eyes, ears, or mouth. Send this to the vet for further examination. Through that, you can determine what you should avoid in order to establish what the best diet for your Pitbull is.
Usually, the best dog food for Pitbulls with skin allergies has these three attributes:
-Limited ingredients
-Prescribed or formulated by veterinarians
-Novel ingredients
Food ingredients to be cautious about
Again, there is no written list of food ingredients that can be harmful to your dog. But, in general, there are some items that tend to induce irritations. So instead of avoiding, its best to proceed with caution with the following ingredients:
Grains
Grains like soy, wheat, and corn has earned bad rap for pissing the stomach of Pitbulls. As much as your Pitty needs sources of carbs, take note that grains take time to digest. These three mentioned items are notorious for inducing or worsening skin allergies among dogs.
Instead, opt for brown rice, barley, or oatmeal as a source of carbohydrates.
Dairy products
If theres one food item infamous for allergies, it would be dairy products. Its the same case with dogs and humans. Although cheese, egg, and the likes are rich in complete protein, always proceed with caution. It contains enzymes that can be allergens for your pet. Anyway, it doesnt mean youre going to ditch dairy for good. If possible, keep it in a low amount.
These two food ingredients are the usual allergens reported by many Pitbull owners. Still, it will vary depending on your dogs immune system.
Best skin allergy food for Pitbulls
If youre planning to purchase your Pitty with skin allergies its new dog food, I suggest that you take a look on these premium picks I got here:
BLUE Wilderness Grain-Free Adult Dry Dog Food
For adult Pitties, I recommend that you consider the BLUE Wilderness Dry Dog Food. First, its guaranteed to be grain-free and to have very minimal dairy ingredients. This is made from deboned chicken and fish for the most sumptuous meal you can give your Pitbull.
Above all, this food doesnt have any poultry by-products, corn, wheat, and soy that can induce or worsen dog allergies.
This food also has potatoes and peas as safe sources of carbohydrates. Aside from that, this dry dog food is also blended with wholesome veggies and fruits for optimal nourishment. Since it has the right balance of Omega-3 and 6 fatty acids, this is perfect in regaining the health of your pets skin and coat.
Another good thing about this food is it has 34% crude protein, perfect for active adult Pitbulls. Its also packed with antioxidants and minerals that help strengthen the doggos immune system. All the minerals and nutrients here are selected by nutritionists and veterinarians.
Whats interesting about this dog food is its two-part structure. Aside from kibble, it also contains the so-called LifeSource Bits. Its a dark brown bit packed with nutrients, minerals, and antioxidants all intended to support overall health. And in the case of Pitties, its the best skin allergy food for Pitbulls
Pros
Best for gluten-intolerant and allergic dogs
Zero add-ins and artificial preservatives
Free from substandard ingredients like meat by-products
Excellent formulation of nutrients and minerals
Supports the skin, bone, and muscle health
Cons
Only available in a maximum of 24-pound bags
A bit expensive than most
Hills Science Dog Food for Sensitive Skin and Stomach
For those looking for a special formula made for doggos with sensitive skin, the one from Hills Science is the best dog food for Pitbulls with skin allergies. Its said to be formulated for dogs with the nastiest tummy problems and skin issues. Made for adult Pitties, this meal is a combination of chicken and barley for a dose of protein and carbs.
The best part here is that the food has Vitamin E and C plus clinically-approved antioxidants that help restore the shine of Pitbulls coats. There are also Omega fatty acids that both contribute to a healthier digestion and skin. The premium ingredients here are easy to digest and definitely delicious.
This Hills Pet Dog Food is recommended by vets based on the Veterinarian Endorsement Survey conducted in 2023. Aside from that, this formula is actually the brainchild of about 220 veterinarians, pet nutritionists, and scientists. Its guaranteed to yield positive results in the skin department.
Pet owners who had dogs with extreme skin issues including scaling, hotspots, and yeast growth have resorted to this food. With proper transitioning, this food can help clear the itching and wounds in just one month. Even picky eaters would love the taste and nutritional profile of this skin allergy food for Pitbulls.
Pros
Vet and pet nutritionist-approved
All-natural ingredients packed with antioxidants and nutrients
Infused with Vitamins C and E for better coat health
Safe source of carbohydrates and protein
Best for sensitive tummies and skin
Larger bag
Cons
The pieces are bigger which isnt advisable for Pitties under 10 pounds.
Expensive but worth every penny
Causes of Pitbull skin allergies
A lot of pet owners are puzzled as to why their Pitbulls develop skin allergies. Veterinarians believe that the Pitbull breed has a genetic hypersensitivity to various substances, be it on their food or surroundings. Since their immune system seems jumpy, it tends to identify some substances as threats to the body.
Mostly, vets recognize four of the common allergies Pitbulls experience. It can either be contact, environmental, food, or fleas and ticks allergy. Of all these, the contact and food allergies are the most common among Pitties.
This is the reason why its important to choose the right skin allergy food for Pitbulls. Its best to stick to a formulation with limited ingredients. If ever the allergic reaction lingers, it will be easier for you and the vet to spot the culprit.
Like what I said earlier, any food item can be an allergen depending on how your dogs immune system will react to it. You always have to be meticulous and observant at this point.
When it comes to contact allergy, its wise to check the shampoo and chemicals youre using to wash your dog and their accessories.
How to spot skin allergies
If theres one consolation here, its the fact that the symptoms of allergies among Pitbull are easy to spot. Itching and constant licking are tell-tale signs of skin allergies. If your Pitbull is starting to develop hotspots and wounds, its time to assess their diet with the help of a veterinarian.
Other symptoms will include intense chewing, scratching, and redness on the armpits, face, ears, paws, and other folds of the skin. Some Pitbulls may also experience diarrhea and vomiting as well as itchiness on the rear ends.
To spot which ingredients or items cause the allergy, start the elimination process. Start by changing the bedding and ditching your usual detergent or shampoos. If the condition of your pet didnt improve, the next move is to switch the diet.
Transition him to a food with ingredients he hasnt eaten before. If your buddys condition improved, it means his previous meals are mired with allergens. If the symptoms persist, sent the dog to the vet for proper diagnosis.
The veterinarian will perform patch tests to possible allergens. For hard-to-spot allergens, a blood screening test could be done. Its always best to consult your vet if the condition continues to worsen. You simply cant take chances on your hit-and-miss process, especially if the skin allergy is starting to be life-threatening.
Treatment of Pitbull skin allergies
The treatment of your Pitties skin allergies doesnt stop after you got the best dog food for Pitbulls with skin allergies. Its imperative that you work with your veterinarian for a holistic approach. But to alleviate the symptoms while youre at home, I recommend that you practice the following:
Limit the use of sprays and active detergents
Aside from food, another reason why dogs develop allergies is due to the chemicals present in their environment. Start reducing the use of invasive household cleaners and sprays.
Supplement with oils
If your dogs skin appears dry and scaly, your pooch will benefit from the addition of fish oils. This is packed with Omega fatty acids that help restore coat health.
Follow the vets prescription
After consulting with the vet, he or she will likely prescribe antibiotics and other medications to cure the skin condition of your dog. Always stick to the doctors orders. If the irritation lingers, go back to the doctor for another testing.
Always remember that its not just about getting the best dog food for Pitbulls with skin allergies. You should also pay attention to other factors that cause or worsens your Pitties skin irritation. From there, you can get rid of the culprit before it compromises your poochs health.
