Have you noticed your dog licking his paws or scratching his ears like his life depended on it? Perhaps, he has an unusual smell that wasn’t there before. If your pup has any or all of these signs, odds are that he has a yeast infection. Unfortunately, a majority of pet owners don’t know what yeast infections are until their pets contract one.
Essentially, yeast is a fungus that is always present in canines and it forms part of the normal flora of their body. But when a dog’s immune system is compromised, the yeast proliferates in his hair follicles and throughout his body. A recent trend with pet food companies entails selling anti-grain dog foods with the aim of preventing the onset of allergies in your pooch.
But, here’s the kicker. Yeast and a majority of allergic reactions are not brought about by grains but starchy foods. Starch is a complex carb, which once metabolized in the body, converts into sugar. Starch is not just present in corn and wheat, it’s also present in peas, sweet potatoes and several other ingredients found in the alleged grain-free foods. And do you know what yeast feeds on? Sugar! This article further explains the yeast infection in dogs and how dietary changes can help with an anti-yeast diet. More specifically, we have recommended the best anti-yeast dog food.
Last update on 2019-01-04 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
Contents
- Best Anti-Yeast Dog Food Reviews
- 1. Precise Holistic Complete Lamb Meal, Turkey Meal & Garbanzo Bean Formula
- 2. Instinct by Nature’s Variety Limited Ingredient
- 3. Zignature Trout & Salmon Meal Limited Ingredient Formula
- 4. The Honest Kitchen Fish Recipe Grain-Free Dehydrated Dog Food
- Yeast Infection in Dogs
- What to Look for When Buying Anti-Yeast Dog Food
- Foods to Add
- Battle on the Skin
Best Anti-Yeast Dog Food Reviews
1. Precise Holistic Complete Lamb Meal, Turkey Meal & Garbanzo Bean Formula
- Canine Precise Holistic Complete Grain Free Lamb & Turkey Garbonzo Bean Dry Food 26lb. Bag
Last update on 2019-01-04 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
The Precise Holistic Complete is a fantastic dog food option for preventing yeast infections and allergies. This anti-yeast diet formula emphasizes real meat and natural sources of vitamins and minerals. In fact, this is one of the most recommended foods for dog breeds that are prone to yeast infections.
The lamb meal formula is enriched with antioxidants, which are sourced from blueberries, carrots, and cranberries. The antioxidants help in boosting your pup’s immune system. Instead of incorporating grains, the manufacturer uses garbanzo beans. This way, your pooch will be getting adequate dietary fiber but one that has low sugar content. For dogs that have already been diagnosed with yeast infections, the presence of omega fatty acids and fish oils helps to soothe his irritated skin.
2. Instinct by Nature’s Variety Limited Ingredient
- Grain Free Dog Food For Dogs With Sensitivities: Instinct Limited Ingredient Dog Food Is Made With 1 Protein & 1 Vegetable. No Grain, Dairy, Eggs, Chicken,...
- Natural Dog Food With Grass Fed Lamb: Crafted For Dogs With Food Allergy, Our Limited Ingredient Diet Is Made With Simple Ingredients Like Grass Fed Lamb, A...
Last update on 2019-01-04 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
As you will find out later on, one way to prevent yeast infections from your dog is to limit the number of ingredients you feed him. Nature’s Variety Instinct Dog Food is one such pet food that has a limited ingredient formula. It’s grain-free, meaning that it does not pose any risk of allergies.
The primary ingredient in this dog food is lamb meal, which makes it a fantastic option for proteins. Another perk of having lamb meal as the key ingredient is the fact that it makes this dog food very tasty.
One drawback of Nature’s Variety limited ingredient is the inclusion of peas, which is a carbohydrate. On the brighter side, peas are very common in dog foods and they are highly digestible. The easier your dog can digest food, the lower the risk of developing any allergies.
3. Zignature Trout & Salmon Meal Limited Ingredient Formula
- Our Trout And Salmon Meal Formula Dog Food Come From The Chilly Water Of The Northwestern United States.
- This Grain-Free Dog Food Is A Great Source Of Protein And Heart-Friendly Omega-3 Fatty Acids, Making This The Best Dog Food For Your Pup.
Last update on 2019-01-04 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
Zignature dry dog food is another example of a limited ingredient formula. But, rather than use lamb meal, this one uses trout and salmon mealobtained from Northwestern USA. It also has wholesome peas, chickpeas, and flax seed.
Being a meat-first recipe, the Zignature limited ingredient provides your pooch with all the proteins he needs for proper growth and development. Combine the trout and salmon with a ton of antioxidants and essential fatty acids to end with a nutrient-dense dog food for your furry friend.
4. The Honest Kitchen Fish Recipe Grain-Free Dehydrated Dog Food
- GRAIN-FREE: Gentle on sensitive stomachs, this minimalist dog food is made with just 6, grain-free ingredients including wild caught fish and coconut
- HUMAN GRADE: Minimalist ingredients, free range chicken and quinoa recipe designed for dogs with food and stomach sensitivities
Last update on 2019-01-04 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
Although it’s one of the priciest dog foods on the market, the Honest Kitchen Fish Recipe has received glowing reviews among dog owners. Its dehydrated dog food formula is one that owners of dogs diagnosed with yeast infections and allergies standby. Made using only six ingredients, the manufacturer assures dog owners that they know exactly what they are feeding their dogs.
One perk of Honest Kitchen dog food brand is the fact that each of their ingredients is only processed slightly so as to maintain their integrity. The key protein source is the Marine Stewardship Council Certified Pollock, which for some dogs, is more tolerable than poultry-based proteins.
Yeast Infection in Dogs
Signs
The most common strain of yeast that causes infections in canines is Malassezia pachydermatis. If you suspect that your pup has a yeast infection, watch out for these telltale signs:
Itching
One indication that your pooch has a yeast infection is if he’s scratching the affected region incessantly. This yeast strain mostly affects a dog’s skin, paws, and ears. So, if you notice him scratching any of these areas, he probably has a yeast infection.
Foist smell
This is one the most indisputable signs of a yeast infection in dogs. Often, dog owners have reported their dogs smelling like an old loaf of sourdough bread from San Francisco or like a musty old attic.
Lethargy
Is your pooch spending more time napping than usual? Ideally, whenever you’re not feeling well, you tend to sleep in or take naps during the day. It’s the same case with your pet. So, if you notice him sleeping for a longer duration than he usually does, something might be amiss.
Change in Skin Color
For any healthy dog, the skin tone is a standard light pink color. But if your dog’s skin color is turning to a bright pink or slightly red color, this could indicate irritation and inflammation brought about by a yeast infection.
Flaky Skin
If your pup’s skin is beginning to become dry or cracked, it’s likely that he has a yeast infection. However, you should consult a vet for a proper diagnosis as dry skin can also be the result of over bathing or an allergy.
Hair Loss and Hot Spots
Dogs that have yeast infections are likely to have cracked and sagging skin. However, the worst bit is that it causes their skin to feel very itchy. Your dog will scratch and bite himself constantly and this will result in the culmination of hot spots and possible hair loss.
Constipation and Diarrhea
Candidiasis yeast infection jeopardizes your pup’s immune system. In fact, it causes this system to shut down completely since 70% of his immune system is actually his gut, which makes it difficult for him to process food properly.
In addition to experiencing a great deal of discomfort, the lack of nutrients will weaken his body even further.
Urinary Tract Infection
Candida albicans, which is a yeast species, causes excruciatingly painful urinary tract infections, particularly if it’s left untreated.
Flatulence
If there’s too much yeast in his system, your dog will have a difficult time digesting it, potentially leading to bloating and gas.
Causes
Before choosing a specific treatment to address your dog’s yeast infection, it’s crucial that you identify the root cause of the problem. Yeast infections are brought about by different factors, one of the most common being trapped water or debris in his ear canal. This is particularly common in pooches that spend a great deal of time in water when bathing or swimming. The moist surrounding provides yeast with a favorable environment to thrive, resulting in a yeast infection.
Furthermore, dogs suffering from allergies are more susceptible to develop yeast infections. Common allergens include pollens, mold, dust, and certain foods. Yeast infections could also be caused by underlying health problems such as a bacterial infection, a tumor or ruptured eardrum.
What to Look for When Buying Anti-Yeast Dog Food
Yeast infections can come about because of a dog’s diet, his environment or a bit of both. If your pup’s infection is as a result of diet, then you need to change what you feed him. Here are a few things to keep in mind when buying anti-yeast dog food.
Limited or no starch
Starchy foods are the greatest culprit of yeast infections in dogs. When it’s broken down in the body, this starch is converted to sugar, which is what the yeast fungus survives on. If you’re feeding your dogs a lot of starchy foods, then this translates to a high amount of sugar, which encourages more yeast growth. To prevent this, consider reducing the number of starch ingredients in his diet.
Few or no grains
Even though grains have not yet been scientifically associated with canine yeast infections, some vets believe that there’s a slight relation. Besides, grain-filled dog foods trigger a ton of allergies in dogs. So, reducing the amount of grain in your dog’s diet is one way to prevent yeast infections and allergies.
Limited ingredients
If your pooch is susceptible to allergies and skin problems, going for dog foods with a limited number of ingredients can help. Such foods will provide your pup with the most important ingredients while omitting unnecessary additions. The fewer the ingredients, the less the likelihood of your pooch experiencing an allergy.
Foods to Add
Probiotics
If there’s an excess amount of yeast growing in your dog’s body, this is an indication that there’s an inadequacy of good bacteria or probiotics, which help to offset the bad bacteria and yeast. That said, you should consider adding food-based probiotics such as goat’s milk or fermented fish stock. But, if he’s reluctant to take the food-based probiotics, then look for a high-quality probiotic supplement.
Garlic
Garlic is another ingredient that is beneficial to pups with yeast infections for two reasons. One, it’s a natural, food-based probiotic and two, it has natural anti-fungal properties. When buying garlic, go for fresh organic and locally-grown garlic.
Coconut oil
This is another natural ingredient that boasts an tifungal, antiviral, and antibacterial properties. But just like garlic, we recommend buying organic, non-GMO and cold-pressed virgin coconut oil. Start by giving your pup 1 tsp of coconut oil every day per 10 pounds of weight. You can then work your way up depending on how he responds to this dosage.
Battle on the Skin
Considering that the greatest discomfort of a yeast infection is experienced on your pup’s skin, it’s a prudent idea to get some topical remedies as well.
Coconut oil
Coconut oil is a highly versatile ingredient. So, dog owners can incorporate in their dog’s diet directly or look for a skin treatment that contains it. Alternatively, you can make your own topical remedy at home. The first step in making this topical remedy is allowing the virgin coconut oil to melt in a glass bottle. Once melted, add about 10 drops of lavender oil and 2 drops of lemon essential oil. Shake the solution then massage it on your pup’s yeasty spots. For the best outcome, you should apply it on a weekly basis.
Apple Cider Vinegar
Apple cider vinegar can help with yeast infections affecting your canine friend. This solution works by boosting the pH level in his skin. When buying apple cider vinegar for this purpose, go for the raw, organic, and unfiltered type. You can then apply it to your pup’s skin using different techniques. You can use a spray bottle, a squeeze bottle or a sponge. If your dog has suffered irritation, ensure you dilute the vinegar before application. Also, you should never apply it directly on the affected areas until they heal properly.
Wrap Up
A yeast infection in your dog can be a tricky health problem to deal with. These infections can crop up on any area of his body and cause plenty of discomfort. To see if your dog has a yeast infection, you should look for an unusual smell, change of skin color, hair loss, and flaky skin. Fortunately, you can tackle this problem successfully by providing him with the best care. This includes making dietary changes and investing in topical skin treatments.
With regards to diet, you should limit the amount of starch in his food. Also, you should include natural pro biotics, garlic, and coconut oil. If there are spots on his skin because of the constant scratching, you can apply coconut oil and diluted apple cider vinegar.
I grew up in a household that was filled with animals. I believe that my fate as a dog-loving person was sealed in early childhood since my parents owned several dogs of varying sizes and breeds. There was no choice but to take care of and learn about dog habits and the best animal care practices — otherwise, I’d be clueless about how to go about the creatures I was surrounded by day and night.
As a life-long puppy lover, I know a thing or two about dogs and how to go about caring for them in the best way possible. Although I’m not a professionally trained dog behaviorist, trainer, or veterinarian, all of my knowledge and experience with canines comes from a place of love and a deep-rooted passion for dogs and animals in general.
Seeing as dogs kept me company throughout every stage of my life, I decided to follow a different path in my academic life and obtained a Bachelor’s and Master’s degrees in Marketing Management and Digital Advertising, which ultimately allowed me to combine my professional training and personal experience by creating the ultimate dog lover’s resource website! Along with my husband, Dave, I run MySweetPuppy for like-minded dog lovers who want to have a single, clear, and reliable information source about anything and everything related to dogs and their well-being.
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