Best At-Home Dog Allergy Test Kits 2024 — Reviews & Top Picks

best at home dog allergy test

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This content was reviewed and fact-checked by veterinarian Dr. Aukse Caraite, DVM.

Ever since my dog developed a bad case of allergies, I’ve been determined to find the best at-home dog allergy test kit to identify those pesky allergens that make my pup miserable. I did some research and found a few different types of tests available. I put together this guide covering how dog allergy tests work and can help determine if your dog is allergic to certain foods, environmental factors, and other allergens. I also reviewed first-hand the best dog allergy and intolerance tests and recommend our top picks to help dog parents in similar situations.

If your dog is excessively licking or scratching or showing skin problems such as lesions, hives, hair loss, or even experiencing digestive issues, it’s time for canine allergy testing. This can help you uncover what may be triggering your pup’s allergies, all from the comfort of your home. Let’s dive in!

Best Dog Allergy Test Kits — At A Glance

The Research
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Why You Should Trust Us

211+
hours of research
14
companies tested
9
experts & studies consulted
7
dog allergy test
brands recommended

We have tested and rated thousands of dog products, including dog allergy tests. Our writers, editors, research team and in-house veterinary review board spent hours analyzing these products to help you find what’s best for your dog. Read the product review methodology and editorial mission to find out how we test, analyze, and rate.

What Is A Dog Allergy Test?

Dog allergy tests can help determine whether your dog overreacts to certain substances (allergens), such as food sources or external environmental factors that could harm their health and overall well-being.

There are four main types of dog allergy testing methods:

  • Hair test
  • Saliva test
  • Skin prick test (also known as intradermal dog allergy testing)
  • Blood test (also known as a RAST test or radioallergosorbent test)

In-Office Dog Allergy Testing vs At-Home Allergy Testing

At-home allergy test kits only test intolerances (sensitivities) that develop over time. A blood or skin prick test is recommended for true allergies (IgE). Understanding the difference between true allergies and intolerances in dogs is crucial before testing.

True allergies occur when your dog’s immune system perceives a certain substance (allergen), like bee stings or chocolate, as harmful, causing symptoms such as itching, swelling, hives, or anaphylaxis. True allergies occur within minutes of exposure to an allergen. Intolerances, however, do not involve the immune system. They usually stem from a dog’s inability to digest certain substances, like lactose, leading to gastrointestinal issues such as diarrhea. Intolerances can also be caused by environmental factors, such as new bedding or rugs that could trigger sneezing or itching in dogs.

At-home dog allergy test kits are not a substitute for a veterinarian consultation for suspected true allergies. Use them as a complement to your vet’s blood or skin tests.

At-home dog allergy test kits are only available as hair and saliva tests. They offer a quick, noninvasive alternative to traditional blood and skin tests and can test for 100 to 355 different allergens.

What Allergies At-Home Dog Allergy Kits Test For?

At-home dog allergy testing kits can test for the most common types of sensitivities or intolerances in dogs, including:

  • Food intolerance and sensitivities
  • Environmental and seasonal allergens
  • Airborne allergens
  • Household items (cleaners)
  • Supplements
  • Prescription drugs
  • Ingredients and preservatives

How Does At-Home Dog Allergy Testing Work?

Depending on the company’s requirements, you must collect a saliva or hair sample and send it to their lab. These kits come with clear instructions and necessary materials, making the process simple. Within a few weeks, you’ll get the results by email. Discussing these results with your veterinarian is important to establish the best treatment plan for your dog.

Dog Allergy Testing Reports

Most at-home dog allergy test companies provide a color-coded report where your dog’s intolerances are categorized into different levels.

For example, the 5Strands test categorizes over 350 items on a 4-point scale: Level 0 (insignificant response), Level 1 (mild intolerances), Level 2 (moderate intolerances) and Level 3 (severe intolerance).

This helps in determining safe foods and those to avoid. For example, my experience with dog Bandit revealed chicken as a compatible protein, contrary to my assumption, and a severe intolerance to beef, which was in products I used for him. The test improved Bandit’s health by eliminating these intolerances and offered significant cost savings.

What Causes Dog Allergies?

Allergic dermatitis, or skin allergies, is the most common allergy in dogs. Food and environmental factors are the primary causes. Food allergies account for about 10% of dog allergy cases.[1] Dogs are most commonly allergic to the following foods: beef, dairy, wheat, egg, chicken, lamb, soy, pork, rabbit, and fish, with rabbit and fish being less common. However, most dogs are allergic to multiple substances. Common environmental and airborne allergies can be triggered by fleas, dust mites, molds, and pollens from various plants and other inhalants. Home allergens might include perfumes, cleaning products, and other household items.

Why Test Your Dog For Allergies

Testing your dog for allergies is advisable, as dogs can develop allergies like humans. Allergy tests can guide you and your veterinarian in creating a treatment plan, including avoiding certain allergens, such as foods, medications, shampoos, and environmental factors.

Neglected dog allergies can lead to poor health, lack of energy, mood changes, and other issues. Untreated dog allergies may also lead to secondary infections, resulting in hot spots, inflammation, and hair loss. Additionally, allergies can cause Lick Granuloma, a condition where a dog excessively licks an itchy area, often due to allergies. This obsessive licking can create a wound, leading to a cycle of self-trauma, inflammation, and infection.[2] If your dog is excessively licking or scratching, it’s crucial to use a reliable dog allergy test to determine if allergies are the cause and to prevent these complications.

In my experience, I wanted to check if my three dogs had food intolerances, as they’ve been picky eaters with past stomach issues. Identifying the foods causing allergic reactions was invaluable. It allowed me to modify their diets so my dogs could enjoy their food without experiencing digestive issues. For instance, I wouldn’t want to feed my dog a beef diet if they’re allergic to beef, as this could potentially cause distress to my pet. Thus, I decided to conduct an at-home dog allergy test to address these concerns.

Dog allergy tests are a valuable resource for dog parents when deciding what dog food to order and providing a safe environment and lifestyle to ensure their dogs are happy and healthy. And because people often confuse food intolerance symptoms with allergy symptoms, an allergy or intolerance test can save you time and money on unnecessary treatments. These tests, particularly at-home dog allergy tests, can identify food sensitivities impacting a dog’s digestive health at a lower cost than veterinary tests.

Product Reviews
Jump to: The Research | Additional Info

Best Dog Allergy Test Kits

So, what is the best allergy test for dogs? We’ve reviewed some of the best at-home allergy tests for dogs to help you choose the right one for your beloved pup.

Best Overall Dog Allergy Test

4.9

5Strands

Who It’s For: For those seeking the most insightful and accurate results to understand their dog’s sensitivities and intolerances to various allergens.

Allergens tested: 375+ food and environmental

Test type: Hair

Accuracy: High

Results: 7-10 days

Price: $148

Why we recommended it: The extensive 5Strands Pet Food and Environmental Intolerance Test kit is our top pick for the best overall dog allergy test. It tests for the most common allergens, including 275 food ingredients and 105 environmental items. 5Strand’s tests have been approved by organizations such as the North American Society of Homeopaths (NASH), the American Holistic Health Association (AHHA), and the American Pet Products Association (APPA).

What sets it apart from competitors: 5Strand’s laboratories scan your pet’s hair sample (10-15 strands) using bio-resonance technology to scan to measure the frequency of energy wavelengths to detect unhealthy frequencies of the cells within your dog’s body. This includes all the cells in the body and substances such as pollens, toxins, viruses, bacteria, food, etc. Bioresonance technology can detect imbalances that may cause symptoms like upset stomach, headaches, bloating, itching, and more common allergy indicators.

Key Features

  • Results. The results are delivered in a comprehensive report, categorizing intolerances into four levels: Red (severe), yellow (moderate), green (mild) and grey (none).
  • Advice report: Based on your dog’s results, they provide an elimination diet and lifestyle change report (if needed) to address temporary imbalances.
  • Deluxe option. It offers a Pet Deluxe Package for even more allergens tested (460+), including food allergies, environmental, nutrition, metals and minerals.

Our Personal Experience

Bottom line – Our testing team takeaway: We used the 5Strands test for our dog Bandit to see if he was intolerant to any foods. The report was comprehensive. We used the results as a guide, switched him to a diet that avoided level 3 items under the guidance of our veterinarian to to avoid any GI issues. We did see some items reported as moderate intolerances that our dog had consumed before without issues so we were surprised. Noneheless, overall we were happy with the results and peace of mind that this test gave to better guide our dog’s diet.

– Canine Bible, Product Testing Team

My Video Review

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Most Affordable Dog Allergy Test

4.8

EasyDNA

Who It’s For: Perfect for those seeking the most cost-effective dog allergy test solution.

Allergens tested: 143 food & 49 environmental

Test type: Saliva

Accuracy: High

Results: 2 weeks

Price: $69

Why we recommended it: The Easy DNA Dog Allergy Test kit is our top pick for the cheapest dog allergy test. It effectively checks for over 143 common food and 48 environmental allergens by analyzing 4-5 strands of hair. The kit also includes a small green collection tube, which you can use to send a sample of anything you think your pet is sensitive to (e.g., pollen, dust, food, treats, shampoo, etc.). Additionally, the company’s 18 years of experience in DNA testing adds to its reliability as a trustworthy option.

What sets it apart from competitors: The results are highly comprehensive, categorizing allergens into three levels: severe intolerance (positive), mild intolerance, and no reaction (negative). For each allergen your dog shows a strong or mild intolerance to, the report provides a detailed description of what to do next.

Key Features

  • Simple at-home hair collection. DNA samples for the dog intolerance test are obtained from the dog’s fur.
  • Dietary advice. For an additional $39, you can purchase an add-on ‘food suggestion report. ‘ This report provides a personalized list of food brands, treats, and supplements, such as dog probiotics, that you may want to begin using based on your dog’s results.

Pros

  • Lists all allergens they test for on their website
  • $10 discount on each additional test kit
  • Live chat, phone and email support
  • Offer human tests
  • Internationally accredited laboratories analyzed the samples

Cons

  • Results take 2 -3 weeks
  • Long waits for phone support
  • Can only purchase via their website

Our Personal Experience

Bottom line – Our testing team takeaway: We used the EasyDNA Allergy Test for our Minature Schnauzer. The process was straightforward, and the results were clear and informative. We were surprised to discover that rosemary, western ragweed and beef, was a strong and mild intolerance for him. This was insightful as dog parents because we can now use this information to make preventive changes to his diet and surriounds.

– Anthony, Head of Product Testing

Here is a sample of what the report looks like if your dog tests positive for an item:

Our Video Review Experience

This video is from our experience with EasyDNA’s saliva-based dog allergy test (currently unavailable). The sample collection process and accuracy for their hair-based test review above are the same. The only difference is that they test hair samples instead of saliva to detect allergens.


Best Dog Food Allergy Test

4.9

5Strands Food Allergy Test

Who It’s For: Perfect for identifying food intolerances in dogs that cause your dog to scratch, bite its paws, rub its face, or have overall discomfort.

Allergens tested: 275+ food ingredients

Test type: Hair

Accuracy: High

Results: 7-10 days

Price: $88

Why we recommended it: Our best overall pick, 5Strands, offers a food-only testing kit. The 5Strands Pet Food Intolerance Test is the best food allergy test for dogs because it tests over 275 food ingredients and preservatives, more than any other available test. It’s designed to pinpoint key food sensitivities in dogs and cats to aid in formulating an elimination diet. The results are delivered in a comprehensive report, categorizing intolerances into four levels.

What sets it apart from competitors: The test employs a hair analysis method and utilizes Bioresonance technology to test for key proteins, grains, fruits, vegetables, sweeteners, preservatives, gluten, lactose, and synthetic additives. This test is a crucial tool for developing a safer dietary plan, eliminating foods that could be causing your dog’s allergic reactions

Offers different dog food allergy tests for specific needs:

  • Pet Treat Intolerance Test. This home allergy test for 104 common ingredients found in dog and cat treats.
  • Pet Nutrition Test. Tests for 45 food-derived nutrition imbalances due to overexposure or lack of absorption of vitamins, nutrients, minerals, fatty acids and omegas. Imbalances can result in dog allergy-related symptoms.
  • Pet Raw Food Intolerance Test. For dog parents who feed a raw food diet. This at-home dog food allergy kit tests for over 300+ meats, seafood, bones, fruits, veggies, oils, and grains. It helps you avoid raw ingredients that may trigger allergies in your dog.
  • Pet Metals & Minerals Test. This online allergy test for dogs will indicate your dog’s ability to process and eliminate metals and minerals.

Best Environmental Dog Allergy Test — Dog Seasonal Allergies Test

4.7

5Strands Pet Environmental Test

Who It’s For: Great for dog parents looking to discover the environmental and seasonal allergens triggering their dog’s allergies.

Allergens tested: 105 environmental

Test type: Hair

Accuracy: High

Results: 7-10 days

Price: $78

Why we recommended it: Dust, pollen, and mold are all environmental allergens that can cause dogs’ allergic reactions or atopic dermatitis. Often, these are seasonal. If your pup suffers from allergies caused by environmental allergens, a pet environmental intolerance like 5Strands Pet Environment Intolerance Test will help you learn how your dog’s body responds to current lifestyle surroundings.

What sets it apart from competitors: It will test your dog for 105 of the most common indoor and outdoor environmental dog allergens (e.g., plants, grass, flowers, essential oils, fabrics, cleaning solutions, etc.) that are most likely to trigger your pet’s allergies and cause physical discomfort, such as skin scratching, paw biting, head shaking, eye mucus, hot spots, etc.

Key Features

  • Safer lifestyle surroundings. The test results help you eliminate or avoid the items inside your home or outdoors that could trigger your dog’s allergies.
  • Bioresonance. 5Strands uses bio-resonance technology to determine the environmental factors temporarily affecting your pet’s general vitality.

Pros

  • If you want to test for dog food allergies and environmental allergies, 5Strands offers a Food & Environmental Intolerance Allergy Test Kit, which tests for 275 food ingredients and 105 environmental allergens.
  • Learn how your pet’s body interacts with its surroundings
  • For dogs and cats

Cons

  • A little expensive

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Saliva Dog Allergy Test

4.5

At My Pet

Who It’s For: Perfect for those seeking the most cost-effective dog allergy test solution.

Allergens tested: 120+ food, environmental & household

Test type: Saliva

Accuracy: High

Results: 2-3 weeks

Price: $101

Why we recommended it: A.T. My Pet’s Dog Allergy Test is a top saliva dog allergy option for discovering food, environmental and household allergens that may be affecting your dog. Unlike a hair test, this test measures your dog’s saliva for antibodies against each allergen. These antibodies are produced by the immune system in response to foreign substances, with high levels indicating sensitivity or intolerance. 

What sets it apart from competitors: It tests for the most common allergens, including food and household products your dog should avoid, such as laundry and cleaning products, tobacco and other household items.

Pros

  • Detailed report outlines the allergens that your dog has shown a reaction to.
  • Lowest price
  • Expedited laboratory service, results in 3 days (via their website)

Cons

  • Not recommended for dogs under 1 year of age due to the variance in their physiological system

Best Vet-Recommended Dog Allergy Test

4.4

NutriScan

Who It’s For: Great for dog parents looking for a clinically proven, veterinarian-backed-at-home dog food allergy test.

Allergens tested: 112 food ingredients

Test type: Saliva

Accuracy: High

Results: 2 to 3 weeks

Price: $298

Why we recommended it: Nutriscan Dog Allergy Test wins the gold medal for best vet-recommend dog allergy test because it was developed by W. Jean Dodds, a world-renowned veterinarian and co-authored of the best-selling book Canine Nutrigenomics. Furthermore, the company conducted clinical trials to validate the test’s efficacy and tested 23,000+ dogs in Europe and the U.S.

What sets it apart from competitors: By comparison, hair, serum, and DNA (300 foods) tests are NOT clinically predictive of adverse food effects. This test measures antibodies to 24 selected foods in the saliva of dogs and cats. High antibody levels indicate that the animal has a food sensitivity and intolerance to the food. They provide a report with specific results on your dog’s food intolerance or sensitivities. They list the foods your pup tested for borderline reaction (avoid), intermediate reaction (avoid), weak reaction, and no reaction.

Key Features

  • Highly accurate. Measures 2 antibodies (IgA and IgM) twice with robotic automation.
  • Detection. This test can detect a developing or latent food reaction in dogs as early as 5-7 months before overt clinical signs.

Pros

  • Easy saliva collection device with a volume indicator
  • Internationally patented
  • For dogs and cats
  • Veterinarian recommended and formulated

Cons

  • Very expensive
  • Only tests food intolerances
  • Test for significantly fewer food allergens than other tests we review here
  • Added $30 fee to consult with pet nutrition experts for personalized dietary advice

Best Dog Allergy Test For Allergen Quantity

4.5

UCARI

Who It’s For: Excellent for those who want to test for the highest quantity of allergens, over 1000 thousand.

Allergens tested: 1000+ food, environmental & more

Test type: Hair

Accuracy: Good

Results: 2 days

Price: $79.99

Why we recommended it: UCARI Pet Intolerance Test Kit wins the trophy in this category for testing one thousand allergens with a single test. By analyzing the hair strands of your pet, UCARI’s pet intolerance test can reveal detailed information about your pet’s diet and well-being. It identifies possible imbalances, intolerances and sensitivities causing your pet to itch, sneeze, experience digestive issues, and more.

What sets it apart from competitors: A single test that tests for 1000 allergens. That is more than any other company in this review. It tests for 350+ potential food intolerances, 300+ environmental intolerances, 400+ potential nutritional imbalances, and 100+ common pet care ingredients. The company offers speedy results compared to competitors. It usually takes 24-48 hours to get your results after your sample is received back in the mail from the USPS.

Key Features

  • Medically validated results. The results are color-coded for easy reading and include helpful advice to help you and your vet create effective nutrition, wellness, and medical plans for your pet.
  • Easy to use. Register your kit online after receiving it in the mail. Collect the hair sample and mail it using a prepaid envelope.

Pros

  • Bio-resonance technology
  • Prepaid return envelope
  • Access to lifelong wellness tools and support
  • Get results up to 3x faster than other tests
  • Suitable for all ages
  • Mobile app

Cons

  • The website doesn’t provide a list of allergens they test

Best Holistic Dog Allergy Test

4.0

Glacier Peak Holistic

Who It’s For: For those dog parents who prefer a holistic approach to dog allergy testing.

Allergens tested: 300 food and environmental

Test type: Saliva & hair

Accuracy: High

Results: 2 weeks

Price: $129.95

Why we recommended it: If you are into holistic medicine, you will like this test. The Pet Wellness Life Stress Scan by Glacier Peak Holistics differentiates from traditional dog allergy testing because it uses Biofeedback Technology with hair and saliva samples to measure your dog’s body’s bioenergetic balance or homeostasis in relation to various food and environmental factors that have been exposed to. 

What sets it apart from competitors: This test is not a standard dog allergy testing kit. This test looks for reactions to 300 stressors in your pet’s diet using a method based on traditional Chinese medicine, homeopathy, and Western holistic medicine.

Key Features

  • More than just a dog allergy test. Aside from detecting allergies, this test can identify imbalances and disturbances within the entire body.
  • Phone consultation and results. The kit’s cost includes a phone consultation, during which a member of their team will review your results, answer your questions, and help you create a custom plan to bring your pet back into balance.
  • Age. It is recommended for pets over 6 months of age.

Pros

  • Biofeedback technology
  • Free shipping
  • For dogs and cats
  • Also available for horses

Cons

  • The website doesn’t provide a list of allergens they test
  • Not traditional dog allergy testing done in a medical laboratory
  • It is recommended for pets over 6 months of age.

Additional Information
Jump to: The Research | Product Reviews 

Using Your Dog Allergy Test Results

After receiving your dog’s test results, start by identifying foods and environmental elements with high intolerance levels and create an elimination diet or environmental adjustment plan. Consulting a canine nutritionist, like Tazz Latifi from 5Strands or another vet of your choice, can be highly beneficial. For instance, based on Bandit’s intolerances, we switched him to a chicken-based diet, avoiding beef, pork, and rabbit. We combined kibble with fresh food, opting for limited-ingredient kibble to reduce potential intolerances.

Monitor your dog’s response to these dietary changes. Additionally, consider environmental factors; Bandit’s intolerance to acrylic fiber and leather led us to cover his beds with bed cover, a simple yet effective solution.

Types of Dog Allergy Tests

SalivaHairBlood (RAST test)Skin (Intradermal Skin)
Where to TakeAt-HomeAt-HomeVeterinarianVeterinarian
Sedation RequiredNo No No Yes
RiskNo No No Yes
PriceAffordableAffordableCostlyCostly
Best TestEasyDNA Dog Allergy Test5Strands
N/AN/A
ProcedureNon-InvasiveNon-InvasiveInvasiveInvasive

A dog saliva allergy test measures antibodies to the most common allergens through saliva, providing information that can help guide appropriate treatment throughout your dog’s diet. You need to collect a sample of your dog’s saliva and send it for testing. EasyDNA Dog Allergy Test is your top choice.

With this test, you collect dog hair instead of blood or hair samples and send them to the lab. 5Strands dog allergy test is the best in this category.

Veterinary dermatologists perform dog allergy skin testing, which can be expensive. Intradermal skin testing is regarded as the ‘gold standard in determining the cause of atopic dermatitis, and it requires your dog to be anesthetized and have its hair shaved. Once this is done, the dermatologists inject small amounts of potential allergens under the skin’s surface and monitor the injection sites for any allergic reaction.[3] A positive reaction could happen right away or take 5 to 20 minutes. If there’s no reaction, it’s unlikely your pup is allergic to the substance. If the test is positive, a typical response looks like a small hive with swelling and redness will occur.[4]

Your vet may avoid skin testing if your dog’s risk for anaphylaxis or a severe reaction is high.

Blood allergy testing for dogs looks for Immunoglobulin E (IgE) antibodies in the blood specific to a certain food or another allergen. The higher the IgE levels, the more likely your pup is allergic to that food or allergen. Blood tests can be less accurate than skin tests but are safer since only a single blood sample is taken and submitted to a reference laboratory for analysis. Unlike skin tests, no allergens are injected into your dog, so there are zero risks of triggering an allergic reaction.

Elimination Diet Trials are considered the gold standard for testing food allergies in dogs due to their direct approach to identifying specific allergens. This method involves removing known allergens from the dog’s diet and reintroducing them individually. The process helps to pinpoint exactly which food(s) cause allergic reactions.

Are At-Home Dog Allergy Tests Accurate?

No dog allergy test is one hundred percent accurate. These tests can help you gain insightful information to prevent ingestion or exposure to potential allergens that could harm your dog. Our research indicates that skin and dog allergy tests have an accuracy level of about 75%.[5] Anecdotal evidence suggests similar accuracy figures, though some pet owners report lower or higher satisfaction levels with their results. Every dog is unique, so take the results with a grain of salt and consult your veterinarian.

At-Home Dog Allergy Test Cost

Dog allergy testing costs vary. A skin test by a pet dermatologist, involving pricking the skin to test for allergens, averages around $260. Blood testing ranges from $200 to $300, not including examination and additional fees, which can raise the total cost. In contrast, at-home dog allergy tests are generally cheaper, priced between $55 and $280. Read our dog allergy testing cost guide to learn about the factors that influence cost and which test might be a better fit for your budget.

Dog Breeds That Need Allergy Testing The Most

If your dog belongs to a breed predisposed to allergies, it’s important to be vigilant for any signs of allergic reactions and consider allergy testing. The Merck Veterinary Manual lists the following breeds as most likely to develop allergies:

  • Chinese Shar-Pei
  • Wirehaired Fox Terriers
  • Golden Retrievers
  • Dalmatians
  • Boxers
  • Boston Terriers
  • Labrador Retrievers
  • Lhasa Apsos
  • Scottish Terriers
  • Shih Tzus
  • West Highland White Terriers

Other breeds include pugs, Maltese Terrier, Pekingese, Bichon Frise, German Shepherds, Pitbulls, Yorkies, and Poodle. However, any dog breed (or mixed breeds) can be allergic.[6]

The age of allergy onset for dogs is generally between 6 months and 3 years. Signs are usually seasonal but may be seen all year.

Dog Food Allergy Test

Dog food allergies occur when the immune system mistakenly identifies harmless food as a threat, causing reactions like chronic ear inflammation, gastrointestinal issues, diarrhea, gas, rashes, and itching. Severe cases can lead to hives, facial swelling and anaphylactic shock, a life-threatening condition, says AKC’s Chief Veterinary Officer, Dr. Jerry Klein.[7]

According to the latest research, beef, dairy products, chicken, and wheat are the most likely food allergens contributing to skin-related allergies.[8] It’s important to remember that certain foods are toxic to dogs. Conducting a dog food allergy test can help identify the cause of these allergies. For more information, refer to our detailed article on dog food allergy testing.

dog food allergy testing

Frequently Asked Questions

If your dog has tested positive for certain foods and ingredients, removing those ingredients from their current diet is advised. The ideal elimination diet for dog allergies is homemade or switching to a dog food brand that doesn’t know contains the ingredients your pet is allergic to.
Did you know plant-based diets are less common to cause allergic reactions than animal protein-based kibble? Experts from Cummings Veterinary Medical Center at Tufts University” reported that dogs’ most common food allergies are chicken, beef, dairy, and eggs, all found in traditional dog kibble. Read our best dog vegan foods guide to learn how they can benefit your dog and find an alternative.

If you are looking for a dog allergist in your area, the chances of finding one are slim. Stop searching on Google for “dog allergy testing near me” and allergy-test your dog from the convenience of your home with one of our top picks above. You can also use a service like Vetster to find a licensed veterinary professional ready to provide online pet care through video chat. They can answer all your dog allergy-related questions.
If your dog has an allergy emergency, please visit the vet ASAP.

The main difference between these two allergy tests is that blood testing in dogs is safer and less expensive than dog skin allergy tests. Blood tests pose no risk of triggering a severe reaction compared to a skin test.

Some allergy problems, such as sessional allergies (dust and pollen), aren’t harmful to dogs and may not need treatment. Sometimes your allergies can be controlled with the occasional use of a dog allergy over-the-counter medication. The American Kennel Club (AKC) recommends dog antihistamines such as Benadryl as an excellent medication for dogs with mild-to-moderate allergies. In most cases, seasonal, food, and environmental allergies respond to Benadryl, says the AKC. However, sometimes allergies can interfere with your dog’s day-to-day activities or decrease their quality of life. Allergies can even be life-threatening. Taking your dog to the vet is crucial if you suspect it has an allergic reaction. Testing your dog for allergies is a great way to minimize allergy risks.

Are Dog Allergy Tests Worth It? — Conclusion & Alternatives

I advocate for using at-home dog allergy tests. These tests can give pet parents insights into their dog’s potential allergies, helping them avoid foods and environmental allergens that cause intolerances, sensitivities, and distress. However, it’s important to interpret the results with your veterinarian’s assistance to avoid misdiagnosing. With their guidance, you can develop a new dietary plan or make lifestyle adjustments for your dog’s well-being.

Allergic reactions, whether digestive or skin-related, significantly affect a dog’s health. Fresh human-grade dog food or raw dog diet, characterized by all-natural ingredients and free from preservatives and additives, is an excellent choice to combat food allergies.

To learn more about maintaining your dog’s health, consider exploring our article on dog gut health tests, which can further reveal insights about your dog’s dietary sensitivities and overall health. If your dog is already experiencing allergies or intolerance symptoms, read our articles on the best dog allergy medications and home dog allergy remedies for the best comprehensive care. These resources can be invaluable in managing your furry friend’s allergies and ensuring they lead a happy, healthy life.


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Sources

Canine Bible uses only high-quality sources, including peer-reviewed studies, to support the facts within our articles. Read our editorial process and product review methodology to learn more about how we fact-check, test products, and keep our content accurate, reliable, and trustworthy.

  1. Eckstein, S. (2012). Caring for a Dog with Food Allergies. WebMD.
  2. VCA Hospitals. (n.d.). Lick granuloma in dogs.
  3. MedlinePlus (n.d.). Intradermal allergy test reactions. Medlineplus.gov.
  4. Barnes C. & Barnette C. (n.d.). RAST testing in dogs. VCA Hospitals.
  5. University of Wisconsin Veterinary Care. (2018). Allergy testing [PDF file].
  6. White, S. D., & Moriello, K. A. (2022, October). Allergies in dogs. Merck Veterinary Manual.
  7. AKC Staff. (2023, November 9). Types of dog allergies and how to treat them. American Kennel Club.
  8. Mueller, R. S., Olivry, T., & Prélaud, P. (2016). Critically appraised topic on adverse food reactions of companion animals (2): common food allergen sources in dogs and cats. BMC Veterinary Research, 12(1).
Editorial Team at Canine Bible | + posts

Canine Bible authorship represents the unified voice of our entire editorial team and our in-house veterinarians rather than a single author. Each article, blog post, and review published under the Canine Bible name undergoes a rigorous review process, involving all team members to guarantee accuracy and up-to-date in accordance with the latest veterinarian research. This collaborative effort is an integral part of our editorial process and aligns with our four pillars of content creation. This approach ensures our content is backed by expert knowledge and factual information, offering our readers reliable, actionable, and trustworthy content.

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