In this article, we thoroughly examine the top dog food options for allergies.
Additionally, we will assess and assign a rating to each of our top selections.
However, before we proceed…
What Types of Dog Food
Are Best for Allergies?
There are two recipe designs available for the best dog foods for allergies.
- Limited ingredient diets
- Hypoallergenic dog foods
Limited Ingredient Diets
Limited ingredient diets consist of a reduced number of items, making it simpler to identify the exact ingredient (referred to as an allergen) to which your pet might have an allergy.
Hypoallergenic Dog Foods
Hypoallergenic dog foods are made using protein that has been broken down into its fundamental nutrient components, making the allergen almost undetectable by your pet’s immune system.
Therefore, the chances of your dog experiencing an allergic reaction to the food are reduced.
The Most Common
Food Allergens in Dogs
Veterinarians at VCA Hospitals state that…
The top 6 food allergens found in dogs are beef, chicken, eggs from chickens, dairy, soy, and wheat gluten.
In August 2023, here are The Dog Food Advisor’s top 13 dog foods for allergies.
Best Dog Foods for Allergies
The Farmer’s Dog (Pork)
Our review of The Farmers Dog product line includes three fresh recipes, one of which is Farmers Pork.
- First 5 ingredients: Pork, sweet potato, potato, green beans, cauliflower
- Type: Grain-free
- Design: All Life Stages
- Best for: All dogs including large breed puppies
The bulk of the animal protein in The Farmer’s Dog pork recipe is sourced from fresh pork. By analyzing the ingredient label, we found that the recipe contains 36% protein, 28% fat, and 28% estimated carbohydrates on a dry matter basis. This results in a fat-to-protein ratio of approximately 78%.
Highly recommended, this is a top pick.
Nom Nom Fresh
Our review of the Nom Nom cooked-then-frozen product line included the study of 4 fresh human-grade recipes, one of which is Pork Potluck.
- First 5 ingredients: Ground pork, russet potatoes, green beans, squash, kale
- Type: Grain-free
- Design: Limited ingredient
- Profile: All life stages
- Best For: Adults + puppies (including large breeds)
The primary source of meat protein in Nom Nom Pork Potluck comes from fresh ground pork. An analysis of the dry matter label shows that the wet recipe consists of 28% protein, 20% fat, and an estimated 44% carbohydrates. The fat-to-protein ratio is approximately 71%.
If you have ever desired to provide your dog with a freshly cooked meal at home, but were unsure how to ensure it had proper nutritional balance, Nom Nom offers a wise solution.
When you first go to Nom Nom’s website, you will be asked some questions regarding your dog’s age, weight, breed, and any possible allergies. Based on this information, Nom Nom will develop a personalized diet focusing on a single protein, aiming to maintain your dog’s ideal weight.
Dr. Justin Shmalberg, a board-certified veterinary nutritionist (DACVN), has expertly designed the product.
Highly recommended as a great starting point for an at-home elimination diet, is an exceptional limited ingredient recipe.
Wellness Simple Limited Ingredient Diet
Our review of the Wellness Simple Limited Ingredient dry product line includes Turkey and Potato Formula among 6 other recipes.
- First 5 ingredients: Deboned turkey, turkey meal, potatoes, peas, dried ground potatoes
- Type: Grain-free
- Design: Limited ingredient
- Profile: Maintenance
- Best For: Adults only (not for puppies)
The Wellness Simple Limited Ingredient Diet Turkey and Potato primarily gets its animal protein from fresh turkey and turkey meal. When we analyze the label based on dry matter, we find that the recipe has 29% protein, 14% fat, and an estimated 49% carbs. This results in a fat-to-protein ratio of approximately 46%.
Easily recommended, this is an excellent choice for adult dogs with food and skin sensitivities, providing a limited ingredient option.
Raised Right Dog Food
Our review of the Raised Right product line includes 11 fresh recipes, one of which is Raised Right Beef.
- First 5 ingredients: Beef, beef heart, carrots, beef liver, cranberries
- Type: Grain-free (carrots, cranberries)
- Profile: Maintenance
- Best for: Adult dogs only
The majority of the animal protein used by Raised Right Beef comes from fresh beef. When analyzing the label for dry matter, it is found that the recipe consists of 61% protein, 24% fat, and approximately 8% estimated carbs. This results in a fat-to-protein ratio of approximately 39%.
This dog food is among the best on the market, made with fresh, human-grade ingredients. What sets it apart is its wide range of recipes, which is particularly beneficial for dogs with selective appetites. It comes highly recommended.
We Feed Raw Turkey Patties
One of the 6 frozen raw recipes we reviewed for the We Feed Raw product line is Turkey Patties.
- First 5 ingredients: Turkey Tails, turkey gizzards, turkey wings, turkey liver, WFR vitamin + mineral mix
- Type: Grain-free
- Profile: All Life Stages
The majority of animal protein in This We Feed Raw Turkey Patties comes from turkey. When the dry matter label is analyzed, it shows that the recipe contains 49% protein, 25% fat, and 18% estimated carbs, resulting in a fat-to-protein ratio of approximately 52%.
The use of high-quality ingredients is extremely recommended.
Canidae Grain-Free Pure Limited Ingredient
Included in our review of the Canidae Grain-Free Pure dry product line is the Real Salmon and Sweet Potato Recipe, among nine other formulas.
- First 5 ingredients: Salmon, salmon meal, menhaden fish meal, sweet potatoes, peas
- Type: Grain-free
- Design: Limited ingredient
- Profile: Maintenance
- Best For: Adults only (not for puppies)
The majority of the meat protein in Canidae Grain-Free Pure Real Salmon and Sweet Potato is sourced from fresh salmon, as well as salmon and menhaden fish meals. When we analyze the dry matter label, we find that the recipe contains 36% protein, 20% fat, and 36% estimated carbs. This results in a fat-to-protein ratio of approximately 56%.
An ideal recipe of superior quality suitable for adult dogs.
Taste of the Wild Prey Limited Ingredient Dog Food
Our review of the Taste of the Wild Prey Limited Ingredient product line includes three dry formulas, one of which is the Angus Beef Recipe.
- First 5 ingredients: Beef, lentils, tomato pomace, chicken fat, natural flavor
- Type: Grain-free
- Design: Limited ingredient
- Profile: All life stages
- Best For: All adults + puppies
The majority of the animal protein in Taste of the Wild Prey Angus Beef comes from fresh beef. When analyzing the dry matter label, it is found that the recipe contains approximately 30% protein, 17% fat, and an estimated 45% carbs. This results in a fat-to-protein ratio of approximately 57%.
Strongly advised.
Purina Pro Plan Veterinary Diets HA Chicken Flavor
Our review of the Purina Pro Plan Veterinary Diets HA Dog Food dry product line includes two recipes, one of which is Chicken Flavor.
- First 5 ingredients: Corn starch, hydrolyzed soy protein isolate, partially hydrogenated canola oil preserved with TBHQ, coconut oil, powdered cellulose,
- Type: Grain-free
- Design: Hypoallergenic
- Profile: Maintenance
- Best For: Adults only (not for puppies)
The main source of protein in Purina Pro Plan Veterinary Diets HA Chicken Flavor is hydrolyzed soy protein isolate. Upon conducting a dry matter label analysis, it is found that the recipe consists of 20% protein, 11% fat, and estimated carbs of about 61%. As a result, the ratio of fat to protein is approximately 53%.
Merrick Limited Ingredient Diet Dog Food
Our review of the Merrick Limited Ingredient Diet wet product line includes Real Turkey and Brown Rice, among 4 other wet recipes.
- First 5 ingredients: Deboned turkey, turkey broth, turkey liver, brown rice, oatmeal
- Type: Grain-inclusive (brown rice, oatmeal)
- Design: Limited ingredient
- Profile: Maintenance
- Best For: Adults only (not for puppies)
The Merrick Limited Ingredient formula primarily obtains its meat protein from fresh deboned turkey. Analyzing the label based on dry matter, the formula consists of 36% protein, 27% fat, and 28% estimated carbs, resulting in a fat-to-protein ratio of approximately 75%.
For those in search of a potential harmful ingredient, a practical option is available in the form of a balanced, moist alternative to dry kibble. Moreover, it is highly recommended and comes in four other highlighted protein varieties.
This is a highly recommended choice for dogs that are sensitive.
Royal Canin Veterinary Diets Hydrolyzed Protein Adult HP
Our review of the Royal Canin Veterinary Diets Hydrolyzed Protein dry product line includes four recipes, including Royal Canin Veterinary Diets Hydrolyzed Protein Adult HP.
- First 5 ingredients: Brewers rice, hydrolyzed soy protein, chicken fat, natural flavors, dried plain beet pulp
- Type: Grain-inclusive (brewers rice)
- Design: Hypoallergenic
- Profile: All life stages
- Best For: All adults + small or medium breed puppies
The main source of protein in Royal Canin Veterinary Diets Hydrolyzed Protein is hydrolyzed soy protein. After analyzing the dry matter label, it is determined that the recipe consists of 21% protein, 19% fat, and 52% estimated carbs. This results in a fat-to-protein ratio of approximately 89%.
This is a suitable choice for dogs with allergies at every stage of their lives.
Hill’s Prescription Diet Z/D Skin Food Sensitvities
Z/D is one of two dry recipes that are part of our review of the Hill’s Prescription Skin Food Sensitivities product line.
- First 5 ingredients: Corn starch, hydrolyzed chicken liver, powdered cellulose, soybean oil, calcium carbonate
- Type: Grain-free
- Design: Hypoallergenic
- Profile: Maintenance
- Best For: Adults only, including seniors (not for puppies)
The main source of animal protein in this product is chicken liver. When analyzing the dry matter label, it shows that the recipe contains 19% protein, 14% fat, and an estimated 59% carbs. This results in a fat-to-protein ratio of approximately 75%.
Hill’s Z/D contains chicken-derived hydrolyzed protein to prevent adverse food reactions and support skin health.
For years, veterinary professionals nationwide have recommended a hypoallergenic formula that has been proven over time. It is highly recommended for dogs with diagnosed food and skin allergies.
More Dog Foods for Allergies
Best hypoallergenic wet dog food: Hills
If your dog has a preference for wet food or tends to not drink an adequate amount of water, this particular brand of canned dog food for adult dogs utilizes hydrolyzed chicken liver to decrease immune responses. The wet food alternative also aids in improving skin irritation, digestion, and the quality of stool, as stated by the brand. The prescribed diet is available in cans of 12 ounces.
Best dog food for environmental allergies: Blue Buffalo
According to Paterson, diets that promote healthy skin contain fatty acids that can decrease inflammation, enhance skin health, and fortify the skin barrier. According to Pucheu-Haston, this particular kibble option from Blue Buffalo includes omega-3 and -6 fatty acids sourced from deboned salmon, salmon meal, and fish oil. Furthermore, it does not contain wheat or soy, which are commonly known as allergens for dogs.
Best novel protein dog food for allergies: Blue Buffalo
According to Paterson, novel diets such as rabbit, kangaroo, or alligator can effectively manage food allergies. Blue Buffalo offers a novel protein source by using alligator in their formula. The brand enriches the formula with fish oil and flaxseed to provide essential omega-3 fatty acids, which promote skin and coat health.
Best plant-based dog food for allergies: Open Farm
According to Pucheu-Haston, chicken, beef, and dairy are frequently responsible for causing food allergies in dogs. Open Farm’s plant-based recipe, on the other hand, opts for sweet potato, fava beans, and whole grain barley as the main ingredients instead of these common meat proteins. Open Farm also claims that their recipe derives omega fatty acids from flaxseed, sunflower, and coconut oil, making it suitable for dogs with fish allergies as well.
Best fresh dog food for allergies: JustFoodForDogs
According to the brand, this adult formula is a kitchen-cooked fresh-food option that is free of gluten, grains, preservatives, and growth hormones. The only animal protein source in this formula is lamb, which could potentially cross-react with beef allergies in some dogs, according to Pucheu-Haston. Additionally, the recipe includes Icelandic fish oil for omega-3 fatty acids and safflower oil for omega-6 fatty acids, which promotes healthy skin, as mentioned on the brand’s website. JustFoodForDogs suggests defrosting the frozen food in a glass or plastic container in the refrigerator before serving it to your pup.
How we picked the best food for allergy-prone dogs
When evaluating the numerous options that are accessible, our specialists advised considering the following factors:
- Ingredients : Diets enriched with fatty acids can reduce inflammation, improve skin health and strengthen the skin barrier, says Paterson. Fatty acids are typically derived from cold-water fish . However, if your dog has a fish allergy, you can still find omega fatty acid-rich diets made with plant-based ingredients such as evening primrose, flaxseed and black currant oil, according to Paterson.
- Recipe and diet type : Our experts recommended purchasing foods that have an Association of Animal Feed Control Officials (AAFCO) nutritional adequacy statement. According to AAFCO, if a food is marked “complete” it contains all the nutrients required for a dog’s life stage and; if it is marked “balanced” it means the nutrients are present in the correct ratios for their life stage. There are several types of diets a veterinarian may recommend when it comes to minimizing allergies and their symptoms (like itchy skin) including hydrolyzed diets, novel diets, elimination diets and more.
- Brand advisor : A recipe created with the guidance of an expert, like a full-time, board-certified veterinary nutriotionist, is more likely to provide the appropriate nutrients for your dog’s age and breed size.
How to shop for food for dogs with allergies
According to expert advice, it is recommended to seek the assistance of your veterinarian when selecting the appropriate food. The suitable diet is determined by your pet’s specific health requirements and preferences, as well as their life stage and breed size. While shopping, it is important to remember the following considerations as advised by experts.
- Every dog’s needs are different .There are four categories of life stages for dogs: growth (for puppies), all life stages (for puppies or adult dogs), adult maintenance (for adult dogs), and gestation/lactation (for pregnant or nursing dogs). If your dog is pregnant or nursing, talk with your veterinarian about the right diet for them. You should also take your dog’s breed and size into consideration, too.
- Look for an AAFCO statement . AAFCO is a nonprofit that recommends nutritional guidelines based on an animal’s life stage. If dog food has an AAFCO nutritional adequacy statement that means it contains all the necessary nutrients for that life stage.
- Check for cross-contamination . Pet foods made on shared packaging lines can lead to cross-contamination, Paterson says. When trace amounts of other ingredients may inadvertently end up in your dog’s food, it can cause an allergic reaction. Prescription veterinary diets made on dedicated packaging lines are the least likely to have trace ingredients, according to Paterson.
- Know your dog’s safe ingredients . Common food allergens in dogs include proteins like chicken, dairy, beef, wheat or soy, according to Pucheu-Haston. While unlikely, dogs can also have an allergic response to additives like artificial flavorings, colorants and preservatives, Paterson says. Your dog may have cross-reaction allergies, according to our experts. For example, if your dog is allergic to chicken, they may also be allergic to other poultry such as pheasant, duck and turkey. Therefore, Paterson recommended unconventional novel diets like rabbit, kangaroo or alligator as an effective way to manage food allergies.
What is the difference between a food intolerance and a food allergy in dogs?
Food intolerances and food allergies may present similar symptoms, however, they are distinct medical conditions. According to Pacheu-Haston, food intolerances are not related to the immune system but rather to the absence of specific digestive enzymes. Consequently, dogs with food intolerances generally experience symptoms confined to the digestive tract due to their inability to effectively process the food.
According to Pacheu-Haston, if your dog is experiencing chronic ear infections, itchy skin, and digestive issues, it could be due to an exaggerated response of their immune system to something they come into contact with, breathe in, or consume, which are known as true food allergies.
What is the best food to give your dog with allergies?
According to Pucheu-Haston, although there are no flawless hypoallergenic diets available, synthetic amino acid-based diets prove to be highly effective. Additional recommended diets for dogs with allergies include ultra-hydrolyzed and amino acid-based diets, both comprising minuscule protein molecules that are unidentifiable to the immune system.
If your dog has environmental or contact allergies, Paterson suggests feeding them diets enriched with fatty acids as they have been shown to decrease inflammation, enhance skin health, and fortify the skin barrier. In the case of a fish allergy, you can consider trying a plant-based food alternative such as Open Farm’s Kind Earth kibble, which contains omega fatty acids derived from plants and does not contain fish oils.
Can plant-based dog food help with allergies?
According to Dottie Laflamme, DVM, Ph.D., DACVN, a veterinary nutritionist and independent consultant of animal nutrition, plant-based dog food can be beneficial in addressing allergies. Despite being classified as carnivores, dogs are physiologically omnivores, implying that they do not necessarily require an animal-based diet to acquire all the necessary amino acids.
