Why is Everyone Running From Chicken?

Chicken is arguably the most common ingredient in dog food and treats. People love it because it is cheap, tasty, and full of protein. But have you ever tried to spoil your dog with a tasty chicken treat, only to end up with itchy ears, red skin? Well you are not alone. It seems an increasing number of pet parents are avoiding chicken these days for their pets. But why is that? Why has chicken become a villain all of a sudden? Well in this article we will dig into this tail-wagging mystery of why so many dogs seem to be allergic to treats with chicken.

Chicken is everywhere!

Our furry friends are eating chicken all the time. Even foods labelled “beef” or “salmon” might still sneak in a taste of chicken fat or broth for extra flavor. If your dog eats chicken too often then eventually their immune system might become fed up and start reacting to it. It doesnt mean that its an evil chicken. It just means your dog has had enough of the delicious flavor. Its like a song you love that begins to drive you crazy after you have heard it a thousand times!

Why is Your Dog Overreacting?

When your dog’s immune system overreacts its almost like throwing a tantrum. This results in itchy paws, red bellies and ear infections. But not every reaction means that your dog is trully allergic. Sometimes its just more of a sensitive tummy that is causing it. Some dogs are genetically predisposed to be more sensitive.

Even if you are trying to avoid chicken for your dog, some sneaky chicken might still be creeping into your food. Many “chicken free foods are made in facilities that also process chicken products. They may use generic terms like “animal fat” or “meat flavoring” but it is really a chicken in disguise.

3 Things to Do if Your Dog Might Be Allergic to Chicken

If you suspect that your dog has a chicken allergy then please don’t panic! Here is what you can do:

1. Check your labels closely: Look for hidden words like “poultry fat,” “animal digest,” or “meat by-products

2. Try an elimination diet: Feed your dog with single-protein foods like salmon or duck for 2 to 4 months and see if it helps to allieviate the symptoms.

3. Speak with your vet: Your local veterinarian can help confirm the allergy and rule out other issues that may be causing the symptoms.

The Good News

Even if your dog can’t handle chicken, there are tons of other delicious options out there from salmon jerky to lamb bites. We encourage you to explore different options and let the flavor speak for itself. 

If you are looking for an alternative delight for your furry friend that is yummy and meaty, then try our homemade tasty Waggy strips! Made from 100% pure meat, with no preservatives, fillers, salt, or seasonings. Waggy Strips are an excellent choice for sensitive tummies because their single-ingredient recipe makes them easy to digest. Click here to learn more.