Hypoallergenic dog food is characterized by the presence of a unique protein that is not commonly found in regular dog foods, such as venison or duck. Additionally, this type of dog food incorporates simple ingredients like fruits and vegetables. In comparison to regular dog foods, hypoallergenic dog food generally has a shorter list of ingredients.
To make it simpler to determine the cause of your dog’s allergies, it is advisable to feed them a food containing only a few ingredients. However, it is essential to know what your pet is allergic to before purchasing hypoallergenic dog food. You should have a specific area to begin testing for food allergies at the very least.
How do I know my dog has a food allergy?
Dogs of any age or breed with food allergies usually display consistent symptoms. However, since many of these symptoms are commonly linked to other conditions, determining the underlying cause can be challenging.
Food allergies in dogs, although frustrating, are rarely life-threatening. While humans may have breathing difficulties from consuming allergenic food, dogs usually suffer from skin problems.
If your dog has a food allergy, some of the most common symptoms it may experience are itchy, irritated skin and chronic ear infections. Other symptoms that may indicate a food allergy in dogs include constant paw licking, hair loss, and digestive problems such as vomiting and diarrhea.
Food allergies are not at the top of the list when it comes to common allergies in dogs, despite allergies being quite common in them. According to research, only 10% of allergies in dogs are caused by food. Flea bites and inhalant allergies are the most prevalent allergies.
Before jumping to the conclusion that your dog has a food allergy, it is important to consider other possibilities and eliminate them before making a final determination. Moreover, dogs can potentially have two different types of allergies, which adds an additional layer of difficulty in identifying the specific problem.
Most common allergens in dog food
The immune system of dogs reacts differently when they consume something they are allergic to. Certain dogs experience itchiness and sneezing, while others have a sensitive stomach. Food allergies, although not the sole cause of allergies, are more prevalent among pet owners than anticipated.
Dogs often have genetic food intolerances and allergies. If a dog has a food allergy, it means they cannot digest specific proteins, which are the common allergens. The solution is to identify the protein(s) that cause the allergies and then find hypoallergenic food that contains a different type of protein.
Dogs commonly have allergies to certain types of food.
Wheat is a cereal grain that is grown all over the world. It is widely cultivated for its edible seeds, which are used to make flour and various food products. Wheat is a staple crop and a crucial component of many diets worldwide. It is known for its versatility and can be found in a variety of forms, including whole wheat, white flour, and wheat germ.
Dairy products
Corn is a type of grain that is commonly grown and consumed around the world. It is a versatile crop that can be used for various purposes, including food, animal feed, and biofuel production. Corn is typically cultivated in large fields and requires specific growing conditions, such as warm temperatures and well-drained soil. It is also known for its tall stalks, which support the ears that contain the corn kernels. Overall, corn plays a significant role in global agriculture and is an essential staple in many diets.
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Chicken is a type of domesticated bird that is commonly raised for its meat and eggs.
Egg is a versatile ingredient that can be used in a variety of ways in cooking. It can be cooked in numerous forms, such as boiled, scrambled, or fried. It serves as a base for many recipes and can be incorporated into both savory and sweet dishes. Additionally, eggs are a valuable source of protein and contain essential nutrients. Furthermore, they can be a key ingredient in baking, adding structure, moisture, and flavor to baked goods. Overall, eggs are a fundamental component in the culinary world due to their versatility and nutritional value.
Thinking in a logical sequence, please rephrase the following text without altering its meaning: “Swine flesh, commonly referred to as pork, is meat obtained from domestic pig species for human consumption.”
Fish, which are vertebrate animals that live in water, have gills that allow them to extract oxygen from the water. They also have fins and a streamlined body shape that helps them swim efficiently. Some fish have scales that provide protection and help with movement, while others may have a slimy mucus coating instead. Fish reproduce by laying eggs, and many species go through a process called spawning. Some fish are also able to change their sex, such as clownfish. Overall, fish have adapted various strategies to survive and thrive in their aquatic environments.
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Pinpointing your dog’s allergies
What is the most effective method to determine the foods that your dog is allergic to? The most cost-effective and comprehensive approach to identifying your canine companion’s allergies is through the implementation of an elimination diet. This entails removing a particular ingredient, typically a protein, from your pet’s diet.
If the current food for your dog contains chicken, you should change to a hypoallergenic formula that incorporates a different protein source, such as duck, salmon, or even bison.
If you stick with the new hypoallergenic food for a period of 6-8 weeks, you can then assess whether your pup’s allergy symptoms improve. In the event that changing the protein does not resolve the problem, proceed to the next ingredient and repeat the same procedure.
After determining the allergens affecting your dog, it is important to locate food that does not include any of them.
Once you have identified the cause of your dog’s allergies, the subsequent action is to select a nutritious diet that does not contain any problematic ingredients. There are various options available to consider. Hypoallergenic dog foods are specifically designed with a restricted range of components, ensuring that you will be able to find one that fulfills your pet’s requirements.
Top 25 best hypoallergenic dog foods
Today, there is a wide range of hypoallergenic dog foods available in the market. Although having numerous options to choose from is favorable, it simultaneously complicates the decision-making process. Fortunately, our team has conducted thorough research to identify the top hypoallergenic dog foods, providing you with a condensed list of superior options to commence your selection.
Continue reading to discover our selection of the 25 best recommended foods for dogs who suffer from allergies.
1. Pupper Toppers
These are the first five ingredients: Chicken, chicken liver, chicken gizzards, brown rice, and flax.
Ideal for: Dogs of any age
The price for 1 lb is $24.99.
When considering food for your dog, it is important to provide them with the highest quality. If your dog has allergies to proteins like fish or lamb, Pupper Fuel is an excellent choice.
Pupper Fuel has been developed in order to aid in promoting the best possible health and performance for your dog. It consists of only 13 natural active ingredients, which include free range chicken as well as fruits and vegetables such as sweet potatoes, apples, and ginger that are known to enhance health.
Pupper Fuel is a hypoallergenic dog food of high-quality and backed by science, which means it contains no fillers, additives, or other ingredients that could harm your dog’s health. The food is made with wholesome ingredients.
2. Wellness Simple Limited Ingredient Diet Turkey and Potato
The initial five components include turkey that has been deboned, turkey meal, potatoes, peas, and dried ground potatoes.
Suitable for: Only adult dogs.
The cost of a 26-lb bag is $79.98.
The Wellness Simple Limited Ingredient Diet Turkey and Potato is created using purposeful ingredients. This food, which is hypoallergenic, is specifically designed with only one protein source (turkey) and easily digestible carbohydrates. Additionally, it does not contain any additives or fillers.
In order to support your pup’s digestive health, Wellness Simple Limited Ingredient Diet Turkey and Potato also includes fiber and probiotics. Additionally, the presence of omega fatty acids promotes a nourished skin and coat.
The Wellness brand is great because they provide a wide range of limited ingredient foods. Although we’ve specifically mentioned the turkey and potato recipe, the company also offers various alternatives such as duck and oatmeal, lamb and oatmeal, and salmon and potato.
3. Canidae Grain-Free Pure Real Salmon and Sweet Potato
The initial five components include salmon, salmon meal, menhaden fish meal, sweet potatoes, and peas.
Suitable for: Dogs that are in adulthood only.
The cost of a 24-lb bag is $74.99.
Are you in search of a hypoallergenic food for your canine that is both grain-free and fish based? Canidae Grain-Free Pure Real Salmon and Sweet Potato is the perfect choice. With just eight simple ingredients, this dog food offers a straightforward and nourishing meal for your dog, free from any unnecessary fillers or additives.
The recipe is grain-free and perfect for dogs with sensitive stomachs, as each serving contains plenty of healthy fats and premium proteins sourced from salmon and menhaden fish meal.
In addition to ensuring your dog’s health with probiotics and omega 6 and 3 fatty acids, Canidae Grain-Free Pure Real Salmon and Sweet Potato is also offered with alternative proteins such as lamb, boar, duck, bison, and chicken for dogs allergic to fish.
4. Blue Buffalo Basics Grain-Free Natural Hypoallergenic Recipe
The initial five ingredients consist of salmon without bones, peas, potatoes, pea starch, and salmon meal.
Only suitable for adult dogs.
The cost of a 24-pound bag is $63.98.
Blue Buffalo Basics Grain-Free Natural Hypoallergenic Recipe is specifically formulated for dogs with food sensitivities and allergies, and it features a limited number of ingredients. The recipe uses premium deboned salmon instead of chicken, providing easily digestible proteins and omega fatty acids.
Each serving contains vitamins, minerals, and nutrients that nourish your dog from the inside out, thanks to the goodness of potatoes, pumpkin, cranberries, flaxseed, and blueberries which are packed with these beneficial components.
This type of dog food is suitable for pups that have a gluten sensitivity because it is both hypoallergenic and grain-free.
5. Royal Canin Veterinary Diets Hydrolyzed Protein Adult HP
The initial five ingredients consist of brewers rice, hydrolyzed soy protein, chicken fat, natural flavors, and dried plain beet pulp.
Ideal for: Adult dogs exclusively
The price for a 17.6-lb bag is $85.99.
If your dog is potentially allergic to most meat-based proteins, you can consider using Royal Canin Veterinary Diets Hydrolyzed Protein Adult HP as a high-quality alternative. It utilizes hydrolyzed soy protein to help maintain and strengthen your dog’s muscles.
Hydrolyzed soy protein consists of easily digestible low molecular weight peptides. It also promotes skin and gastrointestinal health, including the maintenance of balanced digestive flora.
Royal Canin Veterinary Diets Hydrolyzed Protein Adult HP is enriched with various vitamins and minerals, such as fish oil, vitamin C, vitamin B6, taurine, magnesium, among others.
6. Taste of the Wild Prey Angus
The initial five ingredients consist of beef, lentils, tomato pomace, sunflower oil, and natural flavor.
Suitable for both puppies and adult dogs.
The price for a 25-lb bag is $59.99.
Taste of the Wild Prey Angus Beef Limited Ingredient is designed for dogs with allergies to fish or chicken. This dog food is created using pasture-raised Angus beef, and it does not include any by-product meals or rendered meats. Lentils are included in the formulation to provide protein and fiber, while sunflower oil and tomato pomace are also used.
Despite having a brief list of ingredients, this dog food that is hypoallergenic does not compromise on taste or nutritional value. It contains essential vitamins, minerals, probiotics for proper digestion, omega fatty acids, DHA, and antioxidants. With this comprehensive nutrition profile, you can be confident that your furry friend will stay healthy and be free from allergy symptoms.
Whether you own a puppy or a fully grown large-sized dog, choosing Wild Prey Angus Beef Limited Ingredient is a wise decision.
7. Hill’s Prescription Diet Z/D Skin Food Sensitivities
The initial ingredients include corn starch, hydrolyzed chicken liver, powdered cellulose, soybean oil, and calcium carbonate.
Suitable for: Adult dogs exclusively.
The price for a 25-lb bag is $110.99.
Developed by nutritionists and veterinarians, Hill’s Prescription Diet Z/D Skin Food Sensitivities is a distinctive formula providing dogs with food sensitivities with clinical nutrition that is uniquely formulated.
Each serving of this hypoallergenic dog food contains hydrolyzed protein, which both eliminates the possibility of adverse food reactions and promotes a healthy coat and skin. Additionally, scientifically proven antioxidants are included in the formula to maximize the health benefits of each meal.
Hill’s Prescription Diet Z/D Skin Food Sensitivities can be used for dogs of all sizes, including small, medium, and large breeds.
8. Purina Pro Plan Sensitive Skin and Stomach
The initial five components consist of salmon, barley, rice, oatmeal, and canola meal.
Suitable for: Dogs that are fully grown.
The price for a 30-lb bag is $58.98.
Purina Pro Plan Sensitive Skin and Stomach is a dry formula designed to nourish your pup internally. This specific dog food assists in maintaining healthy skin, coat, digestion, and immunity. It contains top-notch salmon, rice, and oatmeal, all of which are gentle on the digestive system and easily digested.
By including sunflower oil, your dog benefits from the omega-6 fatty acids it provides, ensuring that your pup’s skin and coat remain free from flakes. Purina Pro Plan Sensitive Skin and Stomach is made without wheat, soy, corn, or any artificial colors or flavors.
To provide additional health advantages, this dog food is enhanced with Guaranteed Live Probiotics specifically designed to boost immune and digestive health.
9. American Journey LID Hypoallergenic Dog Food
The initial five ingredients included in this product are salmon that has been deboned, salmon meal, peas, chickpeas, and sweet potatoes.
Suitable for: Puppies and dogs of all ages.
The price for a 24-lb bag is $52.99.
American Journey LID Hypoallergenic dog food contains only salmon as the protein source in its formula. It is formulated with 25% protein to promote strong, lean, and flexible muscles in your dog. Additionally, American Journey LID Hypoallergenic is free from grain, making it an ideal choice for dogs with sensitive stomachs and itchy skin.
This recipe provides complete and balanced nutrition since it does not contain any wheat, corn, soy, poultry by-product meals, or preservatives. Additionally, each serving is packed with health-enhancing omega fatty acids, zinc, vitamin E, iron, and various other vitamins and minerals.
If your pup might have an allergy to poultry or beef, it is worth trying American Journey LID Hypoallergenic dog food.
10. Brothers Complete Advanced Allergy Lamb Meal and Egg
The initial five components consist of lamb meal, dried whole eggs, turkey meal, cassava root, and peas.
Suitable for: Puppies and adult dogs.
The cost of a 25-lb bag is $100.07.
Brothers Complete Advanced Allergy Lamb Meal and Egg provide an adequate protein content for your dog, alongside other high-quality ingredients. This food is hypoallergenic and consists of free-range lamb and dried whole eggs to enhance your dog’s overall nutrition.
Brothers Complete Advanced Allergy Lamb Meal and Egg is different from hypoallergenic formulas in that it does not contain grains or white potatoes. This results in a easily digestible food that also aids in regulating your puppy’s digestive system.
Brothers Complete Advanced Allergy Lamb Meal and Egg is produced in small quantities to ensure optimum freshness. It can be used for all stages of life and all breeds.
11. Natural Balance Limited Ingredient Diets
The initial five ingredients consist of lamb, brown rice, lamb meal, brewers rice, and rice bran.
Recommended for: Fully grown canines
The cost for a 24-pound bag is $62.98.
Natural Balance Limited Ingredient Diets dog food provides straightforward yet highly nourishing recipes for your beloved companion. This range of hypoallergenic food is intentionally formulated to minimize the variety of ingredients your dog encounters during mealtime. Every formula features a distinctive limited protein source, such as salmon, bison, and duck. Therefore, whether your dog favors fish or red meat, you can be confident that there is a recipe that will make their tail wag with delight.
This food contains ingredients like potatoes, flaxseed, and various minerals, which are rich in fiber. Natural Balance Limited Ingredient Diets dog food does not contain soy, grain, or gluten and has no artificial flavors or colors.
The purpose of each ingredient in Natural Balance Limited Ingredient Diets dog food is to promote both healthy digestion and a healthy skin and coat, resulting in the absence of upset stomachs or dry, itchy skin.
12. Merrick Limited Ingredient Diet Turkey and Rice Dog Food
The initial five components include turkey without bones, turkey liver, oatmeal, a broth made from turkey, and brown rice.
Ideal for: Fully grown canines.
The cost for a case of 12 cans is $39.48.
Merrick Limited Ingredient Diet Turkey and Rice is included in this list because some dogs prefer wet food, despite the majority of hypoallergenic foods being dry kibble. This particular formula has been created with a limited number of thoughtfully chosen ingredients to ensure your furry companion receives comprehensive and well-rounded nutrition.
This food is designed to support the health of your digestion and does not include any potato, corn, pea, or soy ingredients. Instead, it is prepared using turkey, brown rice, oatmeal, and a blend of beneficial vitamins and minerals.
If your dog tends to be selective about his food or has a preference for wet food, Merrick Limited Ingredient Diet Turkey and Rice will surely make him drool at every meal.
13. Solid Gold Wolf King Bison & Brown Rice
Nourish and protect your furry friend by feeding him Solid Gold Wolf King Bison & Brown Rice, which fuels your pup’s inner wolf. This hypoallergenic food contains top of the line ingredients, ensuring your pup gets the best.
Solid Gold Wolf King Bison & Brown Rice is made with a mixture of pasture-raised USA bison, whole grains, healthy fats, and living probiotics in every scoop. Additionally, it includes a distinctive combination of functional superfoods such as pumpkin, carrot, and blueberries.
These ingredients work collectively to aid in the development and upkeep of lean muscle, as well as contribute to the well-being of the immune system, gut, and skin.
The initial five components include bison, ocean fish meal, brown rice, oatmeal, and pearled barley.
Ideal for: Fully grown canines.
The price for a 24-lb bag is $59.98.
14. Nutro Limited Ingredient Diet Venison & Sweet Potato
Is it possible that your puppy might have allergies to common proteins such as chicken, beef, and fish? If that is the case, Nutro Limited Ingredient Diet Venison & Sweet Potato could be an excellent option to consider. This particular dog food is composed of only ten ingredients, in addition to vitamins, minerals, and other essential nutrients. The formula does not include any wheat, corn, soy, or dairy protein.
Nutro Limited Ingredient Diet Venison & Sweet Potato is made with venison meal, which is a unique source of protein for the majority of pets. Additionally, this recipe is free from grains and utilizes sweet potato as a source of essential carbohydrates and nutrients.
In addition to addressing food allergies, this food is intended to promote your pup’s overall health. It nourishes the skin, resulting in a smooth and lustrous coat, as well as supporting digestive and immune well-being.
The initial five components include venison meal, dried potatoes, lentils, chickpeas, and canola oil.
Ideal for: Fully-grown canines
The cost for a 22-lb bag is $65.98.
15. Go! Solutions Carnivore Grain-Free Chicken Turkey + Duck
If your dog loves meat, this hypoallergenic food is perfect for him. Go! Solutions Carnivore Grain-Free Chicken Turkey + Duck recipe is a grain-free food that is high in protein and will definitely be loved by your pup. With 85% protein, this food contains chicken, turkey, duck, and salmon.
The formulation of this kibble is designed specifically to maintain your dog’s muscles in a lean and sturdy condition. By feeding your dog this food, you will provide them with an ample amount of energy, as well as promoting the health of their skin and coat.
Go! Solutions Carnivore Grain-Free Chicken Turkey + Duck is formulated with added prebiotics and probiotics, as well as antioxidant-rich fruits and vegetables, to provide immune support. Similar to other top-notch food options, this recipe does not include any artificial preservatives or by-product meals.
The initial five components include chicken meal, chicken without bones, turkey without bones, meal made of ducks, and meal made of turkeys.
Ideal for: Canines that have reached adulthood.
The price for a 16-lb bag is $69.99.
16. Hill’s Science Diet Adult Sensitive Stomach & Skin
You can improve your dog’s digestive health and nourish his skin and coat by feeding him Hill’s Science Diet Adult Sensitive Stomach & Skin, which consists of protein, fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and healthy fats. This food is hypoallergenic.
Hill’s Science Diet Adult Sensitive Stomach & Skin is designed for high digestibility to ensure your puppy gets all the health-boosting nutrients. Additionally, each serving contains prebiotic fiber, which supports a healthy gut bacteria and a balanced microbiome.
With the knowledge that allergies can result in dry and itchy skin, this formula is enhanced with omega-6 fatty acids and vitamin E to provide optimal nourishment for the skin.
First five ingredients: Chicken, chicken meal, yellow peas, cracked pearled barley and brown rice
Suitable for: Fully-grown canines
The cost for a 30-lb bag is $68.99.
17. Blue Buffalo Basics Duck & Potato
The initial five components include duck that has been deboned, potatoes, pea starch, peas, and pea protein.
Ideal for: Fully grown canines.
A 22-pound bag is priced at $63.99.
18. Chi Dog Water Diet
Chi Dog takes pride in its commitment to balance and the Water Diet formula is a prime example of this. This formula is designed for dogs with allergies and features pork as a unique protein source, which is recommended by Western medicine to address food allergies. The recipe is hypoallergenic and consists of only a limited number of ingredients, including pearled barley, green peas, watercress, and sweet potato. These ingredients are inspired by Eastern medicine and provide a nourishing meal for your dog. In addition to addressing allergies, the formula is also beneficial for dogs with sensitivities, urinary incontinence, back pain, ear infections, and other health issues, as well as for picky eaters. It is always fresh, without the use of preservatives, and conveniently delivered to your doorstep.
Key points:
- Holistic water diet inspired by the elements
- Novel protein diet features pork
- Made with human-grade meats, fresh veggies, and whole grains
- Limited-ingredient recipe is full of vitamins and minerals
- Low in carbohydrates
- Freshly made and delivered to you
Factors to Take Into Account:
- Higher price point
- Food must be stored in the freezer/refrigerator
19. Royal Canin Veterinary Diet Hydrolyzed Protein Wet Dog Food
The prescription diet from Royal Canin is highly palatable and specially formulated for dogs who prefer wet food. It contains hydrolyzed proteins to reduce the risk of allergic reactions and comes in 13.7-ounce cans. Additionally, it has a unique blend of fibers to promote healthy digestion. The wet food also supports your dog’s skin barrier with essential nutrients, minimizing the likelihood of skin irritation and sensitivity. With the inclusion of omega-3 fatty acids, your dog’s coat will become shiny and lush. Pet owners have reported that their dogs find the taste and texture enjoyable.
Key points: – Do not add new information – Do not remove information Key highlights:
- Highly palatable wet formula
- Formulated with hydrolyzed proteins
- Fiber supports healthy digestion
- Omega-3 fatty acids promote healthy skin and coat
Consider the following factors:
- Prescription required
20. JustFoodForDogs Custom Diet
If your dog has food allergies, a JustFoodForDogs Custom Diet is a perfect choice for a fresh food diet. The brand will tailor a recipe specifically for your dog using their medical records. The brand utilizes unprocessed, nutrient-rich ingredients to create their foods, ensuring that they are freshly made and ready for your dog to consume. Another option is to choose a DIY kit, which includes a nutrient blend and recipe for preparing your dog’s meals at home.
To begin a personalized diet plan, you will receive a complimentary consultation with the veterinary team of the brand. During this consultation, you will have the opportunity to address your dog’s allergies and other nutritional requirements. The formulators will carefully evaluate your pet’s medical records and confer with your primary veterinarian to develop a customized diet specifically designed for your dog’s needs. JFFD’s Sensitive Skin & Stomach Variety Box is easily digestible, has reduced fat content, and utilizes unique ingredients that do not typically cause allergies. Additionally, you will receive a 50 percent discount on your initial purchase of a JFFD variety box.
Key points:
- Custom food recipe created by veterinary team
- Fresh prepared meals or DIY kits available
- Free initial consultation
- Made from unprocessed, nutrient-rich ingredients
- Food delivered to your door
Points to Keep in Mind:
- Very expensive
- Formulation process takes several weeks
- Food must be refrigerated
21. Purina Pro Plan Veterinary Diets Dog Food HA, Hydrolyzed
Step by step, consider rephrasing the text below while preserving the original meaning. Do not add or remove any information. Purina Pro Plan offers a prescription formula of hypoallergenic dog food, consisting of hydrolyzed proteins that have been broken down into smaller components to reduce the likelihood of triggering adverse food reactions. This dry food includes only one source of carbohydrates and is easily digestible, allowing for optimal absorption of nutrients. Additionally, it is enriched with antioxidants and coconut oil, which serves as a source of medium chain triglycerides. The product is available in bags weighing 6 or 25 pounds.
Highlights include:
- Formulated with hydrolyzed proteins
- Single carbohydrate source
- Highly digestible dry food
- Approved for all life stages, including puppies
Consider the following factors or aspects to think about:
- Expensive
- Kibble size may be too big for small breeds
22. Hill’s d/d Potato & Duck Recipe Dry Dog Food
This prescription diet from Hill’s is a limited-ingredient dog food that is specifically designed to aid in the support of food sensitivities. Compared to over-the-counter limited-ingredient foods, prescription limited-ingredient foods are more likely to be produced on a dedicated manufacturing line, reducing the risk of cross-contamination. With a single source of protein (duck) to avoid common allergens and no soy protein, this dry food is formulated to nourish and condition a dog’s itchy skin, thanks to its abundance of omega-3 fatty acids.
Key points:
- Clinically tested nutrition to help avoid adverse food reactions
- Duck is the single source of protein
- Formulated to support digestion, stool quality, and skin and coat health
- Veterinarian recommended
- Available in 8-, 17.6- and 25-pound bags
Factors to take into account:
- Prescription required
- Expensive
23. Nulo Freestyle Freeze Dried Raw Dog Food
Freeze-dried dog food is becoming increasingly popular among pet owners due to its ability to provide the advantages of raw food in a form that can be stored long-term. If your dog has allergies, Nulo Freestyle’s freeze-dried food could be a suitable option since it contains a single protein source and is free of grains. This food is available in various formulas such as beef, duck, turkey, lamb, and salmon, all of which contain up to 83 percent raw meat, organs, and bones. These formulas are supplemented with fruits to ensure high protein and balanced fat levels. It is important to note that this freeze-dried food is produced in a USDA-inspected manufacturing facility, but it is only available in 5- or 13-ounce bags.
Key points to consider: – Rephrase the highlighted portion of the text without introducing new information or removing any existing information.
- Freeze-dried raw ingredients
- Single protein source
- Can be used as main food or meal topper
- Non-prescription formula
- Made in a USDA-inspected facility
24. Wellness Simple Natural Limited-Ingredient Dry Dog Food
If your dog is allergic to commonly found proteins like beef or chicken, you might consider changing their diet to novel protein dog food, such as Wellness Simple Natural Limited Ingredient. This dry dog food offers novel protein choices like lamb and duck and is specifically designed for dogs that are prone to allergies. It is made from only one source of protein and carbohydrates that are easy to digest. All the formulas are devoid of fillers, additives, wheat, corn, dairy, eggs, and artificial preservatives, colors, and flavors.
Key Points: – Retain implies maintaining or keeping the same meaning while expressing the text in a step-by-step manner. – No additional information should be added, and no information should be removed.
- Non-prescription formula
- Single protein source
- No gluten or wheat
- Several flavors are available
- Pre- and probiotics for digestive health
Points to Keep in Mind:
- May not be suitable for all food allergies
- Some pet owners say their dogs don’t like the smell/taste of this food
25. CANIDAE Pure Limited Ingredient Puppy Food
If your puppy is allergic to certain ingredients, they may benefit from Canidae’s limited ingredient puppy food. This food contains only nine or fewer identifiable key ingredients and does not include grains, corn, wheat, or soy. It is formulated specifically for growing puppies and includes antioxidants, probiotics, and a mixture of vitamins and minerals to promote healthy joints, skin, and coat.
Key points:
- Limited ingredient diet
- Non-prescription formula
- More affordable price
- Grain-free formula
- Antioxidants and probiotics support digestive and immune health
Dog Food for Allergies: Buyer’s Guide
Dr. DelGiudice explains that there are a few commonly given types of dog food for dogs with allergies. These include novel proteins or modified protein diets, which break down proteins into amino acids that the body does not react to. Modified protein diets are also known as hydrolyzed protein diets or hypoallergenic diets and can usually only be obtained through a veterinary prescription.
On the contrary, over-the-counter novel protein dog foods can be found easily. In the case of your dog being allergic to a common protein such as beef or chicken, you can attempt transitioning them to a food consisting of an alternative protein source like duck, salmon, or turkey. Over-the-counter diets might not entirely eliminate all other proteins, which can reduce their efficacy compared to hydrolyzed protein diets. Nevertheless, they can still be useful in treating mild food allergies.
A limited ingredient diet, also known as LID, is another popular option for dogs with allergies. According to Dr. Brock, limited ingredient foods have a smaller number of ingredients compared to other pet food types. This results in easier digestion and a reduced likelihood of triggering allergic reactions in dogs. Moreover, these dog foods are usually more budget-friendly and commonly feature a single protein source, making it simpler to find a formula that won’t cause allergies in your dog.
When you are in the process of shopping for dog food, it is important to examine the AAFCO Nutritional Adequacy Statement of the food. This statement is usually found on the back of the bag and should certify that the formula provides a well-rounded and sufficient nutrition. Additionally, the statement will mention the specific life stages that the food is intended for, which may include adult dogs and/or growing puppies.
