Best Dog Food for Dog Food Allergies — Buyer’s Guide, Review, and Comparison

If your pooch has dog food allergies and is suffering from some nasty symptoms, you’ll understand that finding the right food can sometimes be a tough task. Yet, it’s crucial to make sure your furry friend is comfortable and living their best life. Allergy-friendly foods will benefit your pooch’s health by providing them with balanced nutrition that doesn’t cause them discomfort.

Top Recommended Dog Food for Allergy Comparison Table

The Best Dog Food for Dog Food Allergies Buying Guide

Does My Dog Have Dog Food Allergies?

Finding the Right Dog Food for Dogs With Allergies

The Best Dog Food for Dogs With Allergies — Our Shortlist

Conclusion

Dog Food for Allergies Frequently Asked Questions

TOP RECOMMENDED DOG FOOD FOR ALLERGIES

Wellness Simple is a limited-ingredient food developed for dogs with food sensitivities while also being easily digestible and supporting a healthy skin and coat. It contains a single (alternative) protein in the form of deboned turkey. It’s also suitable for all-sized dog breeds.

• Chicken-free recipe.
• Contains a single protein source. 
• Added fiber.

Rating: 4.5/5

The Best Dog Food for Dog Food Allergies Buying Guide

Allergies are not exclusively for humans, dogs can develop them too — dust, seasonal allergies like pollen, and even dogs can be allergic to cats. However, dog food allergies are one of the likely offenders. 

No dog lover wants to feed their pooch something that could make them sick, but where allergies are concerned, it’s difficult to work out the trigger. This is where the best dog food for allergies can help you out. And, even if you’ve found your canine’s culprit, they’ll offer you a wider range of protein possibilities.

Does My Dog Have Dog Food Allergies?

This may sound like quite an obvious question, but if your dog isn’t having an allergic reaction, you may need to consider other treatments rather than changing their food! 

There are a few typical symptoms where dog food allergies are concerned. However, a food intolerance is often mistaken for a food allergy. The best way to try and distinguish between the two is that food allergy symptoms usually manifest on the outside — as detailed below.

Signs of food allergies in dogs:

• Sneezing.
• Itchy skin.
• Eye discharge.
• Red eyes.
• Ear infections.
• Yeast or bacterial infections in their skin and ears.
• Hair loss.
• Vomiting and diarrhea. 
• Skin rashes. 
• Itchy paws. 

Whereas, food intolerance symptoms normally would occur internally, mainly gastro tract-related, as shown below.

Signs of food intolerance in dogs:

• Vomiting.
• Increased gas.
• Diarrhea.
• Digestive issues

However, it goes without saying, if your dog is unwell, take them to your vet to rule out other potential conditions.

Finding the Right Dog Food for Dogs With Allergies

First, you need to remember, what works for one dog, may not work for your dog. It will depend on what they’re allergic to. This means it may take a bit of trial and error, but don’t get discouraged. 

Pinpoint Your Dog’s Allergy

The only way to truly treat food allergies is through avoidance of the allergen. However, first, you’ll need to determine what’s triggering the reaction. There is little point in buying allergy-friendly food for your dog if you don’t know the cause. 

Elimination Diet

The best way to determine the offending allergen/s is through an elimination diet. You have to stop feeding your dog anything they’ve eaten before and replace this with dog food for allergies/hypoallergenic dog food. 

Elimination diets are often carried out, under the supervision of your vet, using a prescription food that contains hydrolyzed protein. This is where whole proteins are broken down into smaller compounds, which makes them easier for your dog to digest. And, as they’re so tiny, the immune system doesn’t recognize them.

They will need to be on this type of diet for a few months to get rid of the old proteins from your dog’s body. 

Limited Ingredient Diet

If, after this time your dog isn’t suffering from any more symptoms, you can then add in one protein type at a time — a limited-ingredient diet. 

You should use a type of protein that is not commonly fed to dogs, and your dog hasn’t tried before — like fish, venison, turkey, or duck. If after a few weeks, they haven’t had an adverse reaction, this is one protein that they can eat.

We’ve put together a list of common dog food allergies so you know what you’re most likely having a problem with. So let’s have a look. 

• Dairy.
• Chicken.
• Beef.
• Eggs.
• Wheat.
• Gluten.
• Soy.
• Lamb.

Ingredients Ingredients Ingredients!

Of course, you don’t want your new dog food to include allergens but you also want it to include the proper nutrients that will make sure that your dog’s skin is lovely and healthy. 

Omega Fatty Acids

These nutrients are also great for relieving any itchy skin that your dog may have. Try to include things like Omega-3 and Omega-6 in your pup’s diet to make sure that your pup isn’t scratching all the time. 

Pre and Probiotics

Friendly bacteria in the form of probiotics for dogs help to balance the gut’s intestinal flora, which in turn, helps with allergies. They can also enhance nutrient absorption so your dog gets the most out of their food.

Other Ingredients

Also, look for recipes free from artificial ingredients — flavors, preservatives, etc., And, that are considered a complete, well-balanced meal, with few — if not zero — unnecessary fillers. 

The Best Dog Food for Dogs With Allergies — Our Shortlist

If you’re looking for a single source of protein, that isn’t chicken, take a look at Wellness Simple. Containing turkey, it’s a less-frequently-fed protein source that’s also low in fat — good for allergies and good for your dog’s waistline. 

Not only is this dog food designed to be extra yummy but it’s also designed to support your pup’s entire body health. Plus it contains carbohydrates that can be easily digested by your pup, which is great news. 

Some even greater news is the fact that this dog food doesn’t contain any soy, gluten, corn, wheat, artificial colors, or flavors, making it safer for dogs with sensitivities and making it healthy too. And, because this dog food isn’t packed with loads of ingredients, the risk of an allergic reaction is much lower too. 

If you’re feeding your dog a wet food combo, the brand suggests reducing the dry food amount by a third of a cup for every 6 ounces of wet food.

Pros

• Limited ingredients meaning it’s quite natural.
• Great for dogs who are quite sensitive.
• Made in the USA.

Cons

• Not great for small dogs.

Hill’s Prescription Diet is formulated for not only food allergies, but helps improve poop consistency, skin and coat condition, immune system, and even heart health. Hence, it’s ideal for those seeking an all-in-one solution. 

Using hydrolyzed protein — a process that breaks down the protein into a smaller form, which lowers allergenicity and makes it more gentle on the stomach. Thus, the food is less likely to trigger a reaction. 

What’s more, it has a solitary carbohydrate source, so there are zero unnecessary fillers. There’s also natural fiber added which helps your dog’s digestive system. And, as it’s a complete-meal kibble, you know your dog’s nutrient needs are being met. 

Additionally, it’s free of gluten and soy, and suitable for lactose-intolerant dogs.

Pros 

• Backed by clinical tests/proof. 
• Patented anti-urinary-crystal formula. 
• Made in the USA.

Cons 

• Veterinary prescription required.

This tri-pack bundle from Ziwi is suitable for puppies through to seniors, which could be handy if you’re a multi-dog household at different life stages. Ziwi contains 96% free-range beef, lamb, or chicken. It also has plenty of alternative protein sources such as organs, bones, and mussels so that your dog is getting only the best food full of nutrients. 

You’ll also be happy to know that this dog food has no added carbs, which is what makes it so great for pups with allergies. Many other dog food brands use cheap fillers to save themselves some money but these are linked to so many health problems in dogs including obesity and allergies. 

It’s air dried too, which enhances the flavors — handy if you have a fussy eater. This method also preserves more nutrients than regular kibble. 

Ziwi helps dogs with digestion, healthy skin and coats, reducing inflammation, and heart, brain, and joint health. This is thanks to some of their amazing ingredients, which include poultry heart, green tripe, green mussels, and organic kelp.

Pros 

• Serve as a treat, topper, or main meal.
• 10% superfood boost. 
• Three-pack bundle.

Cons 

• Expensive.

If you’re conscious of curbing your carbon pawprint, you may want to take a look at Canidae’s dry dog food range. This brand is committed to reducing its impact on the environment while reducing dog allergies. 

Recycled packaging, and regeneratively farmed and sustainably sourced ingredients are all part of its ethos. 

Its main ingredients include — salmon, sardines, sweet potatoes, lentils, garbanzo beans, potatoes, and flaxseed. And, with the inclusion of omega-3 and 6, it aims to assist coat and skin care, antioxidants boost immunity and probiotics keep your dog’s friendly bacteria balanced. 

Plus, there are none of those pointless fillers in your dog’s food like corn, wheat, or soy, so it’s so much easier for parents of pups with allergies. 

And, there’s also no need to worry if you’ve got yourself a picky pup because, alongside salmon and sweet potato, it’s available in bison, lentil, and carrot, or lamb, goat, and venison — alternative proteins for you to try.

Pros

• Supports joint and heart health.
• Packed with brilliant and nutritious ingredients.
• Comes in three different flavors.

Cons 

• For adult dogs only.

If your dog is on, or about to start, a limited-ingredient diet, take a look at Taste of the Wild Prey. With only four primary ingredients — Angus beef, chicken fat, lentils, and tomato pomace — less certainly means more here. 

While it’s a simple dog food for allergies recipe, this brand makes sure your pup is getting all the goodness they need to thrive. This includes probiotics to help with digestion and the precise levels of vitamins and minerals that your dog needs. The food also includes antioxidants, and omegas that help keep skin and coats in amazing condition. 

The brand also advertises that they use non-GMO products, which is just another win for you and your dog. What’s more, all the nutritional value is clearly laid out, so there is no guesswork involved.

Pros

• Limited ingredients.
• Includes omega fatty acids, and antioxidants.
• Non-GMO.

Cons 

• It’s a little drier than some other brands.

Perhaps your dog LOVES chicken, but chicken doesn’t love your dog — Purina Pro Plan could be one solution. 

Containing hydrolyzed chicken and proteins, the protein is stripped down into tinier components. This helps massively in avoiding allergic reactions, which helps not only you but your pup as well.

This formula includes a sole carbohydrate — cornstarch — that’s purified, which again helps avoid the chances of an allergic reaction. This dog food also includes omega-3 that not only improves skin and coat condition, but is a natural anti-inflammatory too. 

If you’re concerned about the low level of carbs, the formula also includes a lipid energy source, which can be much easier for your dog to digest. Hence, Purina Pro Plan is a great option for pups with GI function difficulties because it permits easier absorption of nutrients.

Pros 

• Single hydrolyzed proteins.
• Solitary carb source. 
• Suitable for all ages.

Cons 

• Prescription-only dog food for dog allergies.

Does your dog prefer wet food to kibble? Merrick is great for dog food allergies as it is a grain-free and potato-free food. However, it’s also free of soy, dairy, eggs, and any artificial colors or flavors. So, if your dog has a grain allergy or is sensitive to dairy, they’ll be able to enjoy it. 

The main ingredient in all of Merrick’s products is deboned meat, which is great for digestion, keeping coats and skin healthy, and your dog’s overall wellness. The lack of potato or grains in this food means there are no fillers in this wet food, so you’ll notice a massive difference in your dog’s mood and energy levels if you’re switching from a brand that uses fillers. 

There are also amazing levels of a single-source protein, which is another reason why your dog will soon start to feel a lot more like themselves. This protein gives your dog some of the energy that they would normally get from carbs if they have an allergy to these.

Pros 

• Deboned meat.
• Easy to digest.
• Single protein source.

Cons 

• High water content — lots of gravy.

Another well-known brand, Royal Canin uses hydrolyzed protein to aid in the process of an elimination diet. It also helps to ensure your dog isn’t at risk of nutrient intolerance, which is always a plus. 

Gentle on the stomach, Royal Canin contains probiotics to keep the digestive system in top condition and help nutrient absorption. 

Another great thing about this dry food is that it not only looks after your dog’s digestion but it’s also formulated to help protect their skin. This could be beneficial if your dog has skin allergies, plus it will also help their coat look nice and shiny.

Royal Canin’s formulas are backed by scientific evidence and they’ve looked at all the different things that can cause an allergic reaction. This is why such specific ingredients, specifically their proteins, are used so that your dog doesn’t have to deal with itchy skin or gastrointestinal problems anymore.

Pros

• Suitable for elimination diets.
• Has omega 3 fatty acids. 
• Backed by scientific evidence.

Cons

• Can’t purchase without seeing your vet first.

Natural Balance is a single-protein source combined with a wholegrain formula that’s made up of salmon, brown rice, oats, canola oil, and flaxseed. It’s another dog food suitable for limited-ingredient diets. 

Not only does it offer a helping hand with allergies, but it’s also suitable for those pooches with sensitive tummies. 

Created with the best nutritional needs in mind — it claims to support a healthy heart, teeth, and bones, through to skin and coat condition. The brown rice is also a great source of fiber for an extra boost to digestive health. 

This is a recipe perfectly crafted for dogs with allergies — it has very limited ingredients but it still ensures your pup gets all the nutrients they need for better health.

Pros 

• Omega-rich salmon — main ingredient. 
• Contains DHA. 
• Carefully crafted with your pup in mind.

Cons 

• Kibble size is too big for some smaller breeds.

If your dog has a delicate disposition, whether that be their digestive system or their skin, consider the Purina Pro Plan Sensitive dry food formula. 

This subtle salmon and rice recipe is light on the stomach so that your dog doesn’t have any gastrointestinal upsets and their poop quality remains as it should. 

There are also plenty of ingredients that will help your dog’s heart health be as good as it can be, including real salmon, fish oil, and omega-3’s EPA and DHA. 

As well as the heart and gut health boosters, there is also plenty of omega-6 that’s great at supporting your dog’s skin and coat. Another pro-gut ingredient is the natural prebiotic fibers that nourish intestinal bacteria so that your dog’s gut stays healthy. 

What’s more, with no soy, corn, or wheat in sight, there is no chance of your dog reacting to these common allergens. And, their immune system will also be nurtured by the antioxidants.

Pros 

• Maintains good stool formation.
• No cheap fillers.
• Gentle-on-the-stomach formula.

Cons 

• High-fat content — not ideal for low-energy dogs.

Zignature is a great option for all pup parents because it’s suitable for puppies to adult dogs. Alongside turkey, the brand offers a further 11 alternative protein recipes from duck and whitefish to kangaroo and venison. 

Also, three of their recipes are made with healthy grains, so if your dog doesn’t have an allergy to these, then they’re always an extra option. 

You’ll also be happy to know that their main ingredient is high-quality meat, so you won’t have to worry about your pup reacting to any bad fillers. For fiber and plant-based protein, this turkey formula includes chickpeas and peas — good for the heart and offering anti-inflammatory benefits. 

This food is also a great source of omega-3 and 6 fatty acids, so not only will your dog’s coat and skin be in brilliant condition but their digestive system also won’t be causing them problems any time soon. 

And, with 78 percent moisture in each of Zignature’s products, it will also keep your dog better hydrated than dry food.

Pros 

• Suitable for all aged dogs. 
• Low-fat protein source and gluten-free.
• Rich in omega-3 and 6.

Cons 

• Expensive.

The main ingredient in this dog food is real meat and fish and it’s completely grain-free, so no need to worry about your dog having any allergic reactions. The omega-3 and 6 fatty acids will aid in healthy skin and coats. And, the fiber-rich pumpkin also promotes a great digestive system to keep your dog feeling as good as they can. 

Your dog’s heart health is looked after with L-carnitine, but this also helps burn fat, so  lowers their risk of conditions like arthritis and diabetes. This makes the perfect option for the senior dog in your life. 

Your dog’s food will be packed full of vitamins and nutrients because this food is hardly processed at all. All the ingredients are cooked just once and at the lowest temperature possible, so you don’t need to worry about missing out on any of the great benefits of what’s included. 

Pros 

• Supports heart health.
• Contains real meat and fish. 
• Has natural superfoods.

Cons 

• A little on the expensive side.

Conclusion

Every pet parent wants their furry child to have the best possible life they can. If your dog is suffering from allergies it can make this really tricky and often overwhelming.

Knowing which food to choose to help alleviate their allergy symptoms can help you as owners to make the right choice for your fur ball.

So, if you have a furry friend who’s suffering from dog food allergies, there is a wide range of different options out there for you to choose from.

Dog Food for Allergies FAQs 

Which Dog Food Is Good for Itchy Skin?

There are lots of different options you might want to try if your dog has itchy skin, but the first thing you need to figure out is what’s causing it. Dog foods containing omega fatty acids are good for the skin and coat, so try and keep an eye out for recipes that include these. 

Is Dry or Wet Food Better for Dogs With Allergies?

There isn’t necessarily a straightforward answer to this because it mainly depends on your dog. That said, if your pooch is hard to please, wet food may be more appealing to them. 

Is Chappie Dog Food Good for Allergies?

This dog food is really good quality and if your dog has a sensitive stomach then it’s a great shout. It’s not super affordable anymore and it used to be a lot cheaper!

Is Salmon Good for Dogs With Allergies?

Yes. Salmon protein isn’t high on the allergen list for dogs. Plus, it’s extremely nutrient-rich.

How Long Does It Take for a Dog To Get Rid of a Food Allergy?

You can’t get rid of it, avoidance of the offending allergen is the only way. 

How Can I Tell If My Dog Is Allergic to His Food?

There are a few common symptoms in dogs that are allergic to their food and these include;

• Itchy skin — persistent scratching.
• Skin infections.
• Dull coat.
• Diarrhea.

To learn more, check out our Does My Dog Have Dog Food Allergies? section.

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