The tendency to be allergic is inherited in many dogs just as it is inherited in humans. Like us, dogs are “atopic” which means their immune systems over-react to pollens, flea saliva, corn, beef, cedar dog houses and any number of things that are not actually a threat to the body. Because we know which dog breeds are most likely to have problems we can take steps that decrease their symptoms.
We can encourage the immune systems of these dogs to react in a more normal, healthy manner by supplementing them with Omega 3 fatty acids from wild caught, coldwater fish or from ground flaxseed. Fish oils are often better Omega 3 sources for dogs that are very old, very young, or very sick. Do not use fish that are farm raised such as “Atlantic salmon because they contain more heavy metal and pesticide contaminants than wild-caught fish.
Among the dog breeds that inherit the tendency to be allergic are many retrievers and terriers:
Retrievers
- Labrador Retrievers
- Golden Retrievers
- English Setters
- Irish Setters
Terriers
- Boston Terriers
- Cairn Terriers
- Fox Terriers
- Sealyham Terriers
- Scottish Terriers
- West Highland White Terriers
- Wheaton Terriers
In addition, Bulldogs, Boxers, Cocker Spaniels, Collies, Dachshunds, Dalmatians, Lhasa Apsos, Miniature Schnauzers, Pugs, and Chinese Shar-Peis are frequently atopic and prone to allergies.
No comments:
Post a Comment