The Top 5 Myths About Dog Allergies — Busted by Science
- Claire Lucie Sonck
- Sep 25
- 5 min read
Introduction
Allergies are one of the leading reasons dogs are taken to the vet, yet they remain one of the most misunderstood health issues in canine care. With so much conflicting information online and in marketing, many dog parents end up feeling confused and frustrated — while their dogs continue to struggle with itching, paw licking, and skin flare-ups.
To clear the air, here are five of the most common myths about dog allergies, and what science actually tells us.
1. “Allergies are just a skin problem.”
The myth: Because allergies usually appear as itching, redness, or ear infections, it’s easy to believe the issue is only skin-deep.
The truth: Research shows that allergies are a disorder of the immune system, not just the skin. Around 70% of your dog’s immune cells are located in the gut, where they constantly decide whether to tolerate or react to proteins.
When the gut is imbalanced, the immune system is more likely to overreact, and those reactions show up on the skin.
2. “Dogs can’t digest carbs, so grains cause allergies.”
The myth: Carbohydrates and grains are often blamed for allergies, with claims that dogs cannot digest them.
The truth: Studies show that most dogs can digest cooked, whole-food carbohydrates like rice, oats, and quinoa efficiently. The top confirmed food allergens in dogs are animal proteins — especially chicken, beef, and dairy.
Whole grains and other plant foods can actually benefit allergic dogs by providing fiber, antioxidants, and prebiotics that support a healthy gut and immune balance.
3. “Hypoallergenic kibble cures food allergies.”
The myth: Prescription diets marketed as “hypoallergenic” or “limited-ingredient” are often seen as complete solutions.
The truth: Hydrolyzed protein diets can sometimes reduce allergic reactions in the short term, but they are still ultra-processed foods. Processing strips away many protective nutrients, while additives and starches can fuel inflammation and disrupt the microbiome.
They may mask symptoms, but they do not restore long-term gut health or skin resilience.
4. “Allergy meds fix the root cause.”
The myth: Medications like Apoquel, Cytopoint, or steroids are often seen as long-term answers to allergies.
The truth: These drugs only block itch or suppress immune signals temporarily. They do not heal the gut lining, rebuild the skin barrier, or correct nutrient deficiencies. This is why flare-ups return once the medication wears off, leaving dogs dependent on repeated dosing.
Nutrition and microbiome repair are essential for lasting improvement.
5. “Allergies are permanent and can’t be improved.”
The myth: Many guardians are told their dog’s allergies are lifelong and cannot be improved — only managed with medication.
The truth: While allergies may not disappear entirely, research shows they can be dramatically improved with the right diet, supplements, and gut-supportive strategies. By reducing inflammation, restoring microbial balance, and supporting the skin barrier, many dogs achieve long-term comfort and reduced dependence on drugs.
Key Takeaway
Misinformation about allergies keeps many dogs stuck in a cycle of itching and flare-ups. By separating myths from science, dog parents can make better choices — focusing on solutions that calm the immune system, repair the gut, and strengthen the skin from within.
👉 Want the complete evidence-based guide to managing allergies naturally? You’ll find it all inside my Allergies Hub, including therapeutic recipes, supplement protocols, and step-by-step nutrition frameworks designed to target the real root causes.
Scientific References To Go Further
1. “Allergies are just a skin problem.”
Olivry T, DeBoer DJ, Favrot C, et al. “Treatment of canine atopic dermatitis: 2015 updated guidelines from the International Committee on Allergic Diseases of Animals (ICADA).” BMC Vet Res. 2015;11:210.
Schmitz S, Suchodolski JS. “Understanding the canine intestinal microbiota and its modification by pro-, pre- and synbiotics.” Vet Med Sci. 2016;2(2):71–94.
Marsella R, Olivry T. “Animal models of atopic dermatitis: a critical review.” Exp Dermatol. 2017;26(1):7–11.
2. “Dogs can’t digest carbs, so grains cause allergies.”
Axelsson E, Ratnakumar A, Arendt ML, et al. “The genomic signature of dog domestication reveals adaptation to a starch-rich diet.” Nature. 2013;495(7441):360–364.
Verlinden A, Hesta M, Millet S, Janssens GP. “Food allergy in dogs and cats: a review.” Crit Rev Food Sci Nutr. 2006;46(3):259–273.
Middelbos IS, Fastinger ND, Fahey GC. “Evaluation of fermentable oligo-, di-, and monosaccharides and polyols (FODMAPs) in canine diets.” J Anim Sci. 2007;85(11):3039–3046.
3. “Hypoallergenic kibble cures food allergies.”
Horváth-Ungerboeck C, et al. “PCR-based detection of undeclared animal species in commercial elimination diets for dogs and cats.” Vet Dermatol. 2017;28(4):373–e84.
Cox A, et al. “DNA barcoding reveals mislabeling and contamination in limited ingredient pet foods.” Acta Vet Scand. 2020;62:11.
Ricci R, et al. “Undeclared animal origin ingredients in commercial dry dog foods: DNA-based analysis.” Vet Rec. 2013;172(3):78.
4. “Allergy meds fix the root cause.”
Gonzales AJ, Humphrey WR, Messamore JE, et al. “Oclacitinib (Apoquel®): a novel Janus kinase inhibitor for the control of pruritus and allergic dermatitis in dogs.” Vet Dermatol. 2014;25(3):163–e44.
Michels GM, Ramsey DS, Walsh KF, et al. “A blinded, randomized clinical trial comparing the efficacy and safety of lokivetmab (Cytopoint®) to ciclosporin in client-owned dogs with atopic dermatitis.” Vet Dermatol. 2016;27(6):478–e129.
Scott DW, Miller WH, Griffin CE. Muller & Kirk’s Small Animal Dermatology. 7th ed. Elsevier; 2012. (Comprehensive reference on steroid use and risks).
5. “Allergies are permanent and can’t be improved.”
Vaughn DM, Reinhart GA, Swaim SF, et al. “Evaluation of dietary n-3 fatty acid supplementation in dogs with atopic dermatitis.” Am J Vet Res. 1994;55(9):1289–1295.
Watson TDG, et al. “Dietary polyunsaturated fatty acids in canine atopic dermatitis: a randomized, controlled trial.” Vet Rec. 1998;142(16):421–426.
Marsella R, Ahrens K, Santoro D. “Probiotic supplementation reduces severity of atopic dermatitis in dogs: a randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial.” Vet Dermatol. 2012;23(2):97–e21.
Kim H, et al. “Effect of Lactobacillus sakei Probio-65 on canine atopic dermatitis.” J Microbiol Biotechnol. 2015;25(11):1966–1970.
About the Author: Claire Lucie Sonck is an UK-trained, CMA-registered canine nutritionist specializing in fresh, whole, anti-inflammatory plant-based diets for dogs. With experience helping dogs from 65+ countries, Claire provides science-backed nutrition guidance to improve canine health, longevity, and well-being. She is a global speaker, educator, and advocate for ethical and sustainable pet nutrition. Claire’s work has been featured in international conferences, research projects, and educational platforms, helping dog parents make informed, science-driven decisions about their dogs’ diets.
Learn more: www.mycaninenutritionist.com
Follow on Instagram: @clairethedognutritionist
Get in touch with Claire Lucie: info@clairethedognutritionist.com
Disclaimer: This article is for informational and educational purposes only. It is not intended to replace professional veterinary advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always consult with a qualified veterinarian or canine nutritionist before making changes to your dog’s diet, health routine, or medical care. The author is a certified canine nutritionist and does not claim to diagnose or treat medical conditions.
© 2025 Claire Lucie | All rights reserved.
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