Gluten intolerance or gluten sensitivity in dogs is a well-recognized condition in humans. There are shelves full of products designed to help sufferers manage the condition and avoid unpleasant symptoms. But did you know some dogs suffer gluten intolerance as well?
What causes gluten intolerance?
In general the canine digestive system has no issues digesting grains such as wheat, rye, barley and oats but, as with humans, some dogs can’t tolerate gluten. If a dog is gluten intolerant/sensitive their small intestine becomes inflamed when they consume gluten as a result of abnormal protein reactions in the small intestine. This allergic reaction to gluten makes an affected dog’s immune system attack their gastro intestinal tract, damaging the lining of the intestine.
Signs of gluten intolerance
Damage to the lining of the intestine prevents the gut absorbing protein, carbohydrate, fat, vitamins and minerals – all vital to your pet’s nutrition – and can even inhibit water absorption in extreme cases. As a result, however much your dog eats, it’s going to start losing weight fast.
Symptoms of gluten intolerance
Gluten intolerance manifests itself in a number of unpleasant ways. Affected dogs are likely to suffer diarrhoea, lose coat condition (and even lose hair), lose body condition and suffer general ill health.
How to diagnose gluten intolerance in your pet?
If you suspect your pet is gluten intolerant the first step is to visit your local vet who will conduct blood and urine tests to assess overall health before trialling your pet on a gluten free diet to monitor them for improvements. If they improve appreciably over two to four weeks, the vet will likely reintroduce gluten temporarily and monitor them for relapse. This process of elimination and reintroduction should lead to a confident diagnosis.
Treating a gluten intolerant dog
While it’s not possible to ‘cure’ gluten intolerance, treating a dog with the condition is as simple as feeding a gluten-free diet. Once the glutens (in wheat, oats, etc) are removed from the diet the condition should resolve within four to six weeks and you’ll notice a significant improvement in your pet’s energy, coat condition and overall health.
By Dr Bruce Syme BVSc (Hons)
Contact us for nutritional advice on feeding a gluten free dog.
