If your dog suffers from chronic Pruritus (itching), recurrent ear infections, or red, inflamed paws, you have likely reached a point of desperation. You’ve tried different kibbles and various shampoos, yet the scratching continues. When environmental factors (like pollen or dust) have been ruled out, or when a dog itches year-round, the culprit is often a food allergy.

However, diagnosing a food allergy isn’t done through a simple blood test—those are notoriously unreliable for food. The “Gold Standard” in veterinary dermatology is the Elimination Diet Trial. This is a 12-week diagnostic journey that requires surgical precision, unwavering discipline, and a deep understanding of canine biology.

Why 12 Weeks?

The most common question owners ask is: “Can’t we just try it for a fortnight?” The answer is a firm no.

The biological rationale for the 12-week window is based on skin cell turnover. It takes approximately 21 to 28 days …