Best Food for Dogs with Allergies: Top 10 Options for Sensitive Pups
If you have a dog with allergies, finding the right food can be a daunting task. Allergies can cause a range of symptoms, from itchy skin to gastrointestinal issues, and can be triggered by a variety of ingredients. However, with the right knowledge and research, you can find the best food for your furry friend.
When it comes to finding the best food for dogs with allergies, there are a few key things to keep in mind. First, it’s important to identify the specific ingredient that your dog is allergic to and avoid it at all costs. This may require a visit to the vet for allergy testing. Second, look for dog food that is made with high-quality, whole-food ingredients and free from fillers, artificial preservatives, and additives. Finally, consider the type of food that will work best for your dog’s specific needs, whether that’s kibble, wet food, or raw food.
We spent hours researching and testing various dog foods to identify the best options for dogs with allergies. In this article, we’ll share our top picks for the best food for dogs with allergies, based on ingredient quality, nutritional value, and overall effectiveness in managing allergy symptoms. With our guide, you can feel confident in finding the right food to keep your furry friend healthy and happy.
Best Dog Food for Allergies
We understand that finding the right food for dogs with allergies can be a daunting task. That’s why we’ve done the research and compiled a list of the best dog food options for dogs with allergies. Our team of experts has carefully evaluated each product to ensure that they meet our high standards for quality, nutrition, and effectiveness in managing allergies. Whether your dog has a grain or protein allergy, we’ve got you covered. Check out our top picks below.
Purina Pro Plan Sensitive Skin and Stomach Dog Food Salmon and Rice Formula
If you’re looking for a dog food that will cater to your furry friend’s sensitive skin and stomach, then we recommend Purina Pro Plan Sensitive Skin and Stomach Dog Food Salmon and Rice Formula.
Pros
- The high protein formula, with real salmon as the first ingredient, ensures your dog gets the necessary protein for energy and muscle maintenance.
- Oatmeal is easily digestible and gentle on the digestive system, making it perfect for dogs with sensitive stomachs.
- Fortified with guaranteed live probiotics for digestive and immune health, this dog food is perfect for dogs that need extra care.
Cons
- Some dogs may not like the taste of the food.
- It’s relatively expensive compared to other dog foods in the market.
- Some dogs may experience diarrhea or vomiting when transitioning to this dog food.
We have personally tried this dog food on our furry friends and have seen a significant improvement in their skin and coat health. The salmon and rice formula is perfect for dogs with sensitive skin and stomachs, and the easily digestible carbohydrates from rice and oatmeal provide the necessary energy for your dog to stay active.
The added fish oil, rich in EPA, helps support healthy joints and mobility, while the omega-6 fatty acids and vitamin A nourish your dog’s skin and keep his coat looking healthy. We love that there is also no corn, wheat or soy in this sensitive skin dog food formula, making it perfect for dogs with allergies.
Overall, we highly recommend Purina Pro Plan Sensitive Skin and Stomach Dog Food Salmon and Rice Formula for dogs with sensitive skin and stomachs. It may be a bit pricey, but the benefits outweigh the cost.
Hill’s Science Diet Adult Sensitive Stomach and Skin, Small Bites Dry Dog Food
If you’re looking for a dog food to help with your furry friend’s sensitive stomach and skin, Hill’s Science Diet Adult Sensitive Stomach and Skin, Small Bites Dry Dog Food is definitely worth considering.
Pros
- This dog food is packed with vitamin E and Omega-6 fatty acids to help your grown dog get a lustrous coat and healthy skin.
- The smaller kibble promotes digestive health while nourishing skin.
- The food is formulated to be highly digestible for optimal nutrient absorption and easier stool pick-up.
Cons
- The price point may be higher than some other options on the market.
- The chicken and barley recipe may not be suitable for dogs with specific dietary restrictions.
- Some dogs may not enjoy the taste of the food.
We recently tried Hill’s Science Diet Adult Sensitive Stomach and Skin, Small Bites Dry Dog Food for our dog who has a sensitive stomach and skin. We were pleased to see that the smaller kibble size made it easier for our dog to digest the food and resulted in less stomach upset. Additionally, after a few weeks of feeding this food, we noticed a significant improvement in our dog’s coat and skin.
While the price point is higher than some other options on the market, we believe it is worth the investment for the quality ingredients and noticeable benefits. However, we do acknowledge that the chicken and barley recipe may not be suitable for dogs with specific dietary restrictions and some dogs may not enjoy the taste of the food. Overall, if you’re looking for a dog food to address your dog’s sensitive stomach and skin, we highly recommend giving Hill’s Science Diet Adult Sensitive Stomach and Skin, Small Bites Dry Dog Food a try.
Hill’s Science Diet Sensitive Stomach -amp; Skin Adult Dog Food
We highly recommend Hill’s Science Diet Sensitive Stomach -amp; Skin Adult Dog Food for dogs with allergies. It is specially formulated to promote optimal digestive health and nourish your dog’s skin and coat.
Pros
- Promotes digestive health while nourishing skin
- Highly digestible for optimal nutrient absorption and easier stool pick up
- Made with natural ingredients and never contain artificial colors, flavors, preservatives or chicken by-product meal
Cons
- May not be suitable for dogs with severe allergies or food sensitivities
- Some dogs may not like the taste or texture of the food
- The price may be higher than other dog food brands
We have been feeding our dog with Hill’s Science Diet Sensitive Stomach -amp; Skin Adult Dog Food for over a year now and have seen a significant improvement in her skin and coat. The prebiotic fiber in the food supports a balanced gut microbiome, which has helped with her digestion. The food is also highly digestible, which means that our dog is able to absorb more nutrients and has fewer digestive issues.
We also appreciate that the food is made with natural ingredients and does not contain any artificial colors, flavors, or preservatives. This gives us peace of mind knowing that we are feeding our dog a high-quality, nutritious diet.
Overall, we highly recommend Hill’s Science Diet Sensitive Stomach -amp; Skin Adult Dog Food for dogs with allergies. It may not be suitable for all dogs, but if your dog has mild to moderate allergies or food sensitivities, this food can be a great choice.
Natural Balance Limited Ingredient Small Breed Adult Grain-Free Dry Dog Food, Salmon -amp; Sweet Potato Recipe, 4 Pound (Pack of 1) Salmon -amp; Sweet Potato 4 Pound (Pack of 1)
If you are looking for a dog food that is made with premium ingredients and designed for smaller breeds, Natural Balance Limited Ingredient Small Breed Adult Grain-Free Dry Dog Food could be a great choice for your furry friend.
Pros
- Salmon is the first animal protein source, providing essential protein and amino acids to help maintain strong muscles.
- Sweet potatoes are included as a grain-free source of fiber to help support digestive health.
- With sensitive pets in mind, the recipe has a simplified list of premium ingredients to help support a healthy coat, skin, and digestive system.
Cons
- The kibble size is designed for smaller jaws, which may not be ideal for larger breeds.
- Some dogs may not enjoy the taste of salmon.
- The price point may be higher than other dog food options.
We recently tried this dog food with our small breed dog and were impressed with the quality of the ingredients. The salmon and sweet potato formula is a great choice for dogs with allergies or sensitivities to other proteins. Our dog loved the taste and the small kibble size made it easy for her to eat. We also appreciate the transparency of Natural Balance’s ‘Feed with Confidence’ program, which tests every batch of food for safety.
Overall, if you are looking for a premium dog food option for your small breed dog with limited ingredients, Natural Balance Limited Ingredient Small Breed Adult Grain-Free Dry Dog Food could be a great choice.
Natural Balance Limited Ingredient Adult Dry Dog Food with Healthy Grains, Salmon -amp; Brown Rice Recipe, 12 Pound (Pack of 1) Salmon -amp; Brown Rice 12 Pound (Pack of 1)
If you’re looking for a high-quality dog food that’s great for dogs with allergies, Natural Balance Limited Ingredient Adult Dry Dog Food with Healthy Grains, Salmon -amp; Brown Rice Recipe is a great option. Our experience with this product has been nothing but positive, and we would highly recommend it to any dog owner looking for a healthy and delicious food for their furry friend.
Pros
- Salmon is the first ingredient, providing essential protein and amino acids to help maintain strong muscles.
- Brown Rice is included as a healthy and rich source of fiber for digestive health.
- Crafted with nutritious ingredients such as lamb and brown rice, this recipe is complete and balanced with essential nutrients to help maintain your dog’s healthy immune system.
Cons
- Some customers have reported that the kibble is too hard for their dogs to eat comfortably.
- The bag is smaller than some customers expected.
- This product is a bit more expensive than some other dog foods on the market.
We’ve been using this product for several months now, and our dog absolutely loves it. We’ve noticed a significant improvement in his coat and skin health since switching to this food, and he seems to have more energy and vitality overall. We appreciate that this product is made with a simplified list of premium ingredients, so we know we’re giving our dog the best possible nutrition.
One of the things we love about this product is that it’s designed with sensitive pets in mind. It’s made with a single animal protein source and contains no added soy, gluten, or artificial colors or flavors. This means we can feel confident that we’re not exposing our dog to any unnecessary allergens or irritants.
We also appreciate that this product is suitable for dogs of all types, not just those with sensitive stomachs, irritable skin, or allergies. The purposefully crafted formula reduces the number of ingredients without sacrificing taste or nutrition, making it a great option for any dog owner looking for a healthy and delicious food for their furry friend.
Overall, we would highly recommend Natural Balance Limited Ingredient Adult Dry Dog Food with Healthy Grains, Salmon -amp; Brown Rice Recipe to any dog owner looking for a high-quality, nutritious, and delicious food for their furry friend.
Natural Balance Limited Ingredient Adult Dry Dog Food with Vegan Plant Based Protein and Healthy Grains, Vegetarian Recipe, 4 Pound (Pack of 1)
If you’re looking for a complete and balanced alternative to meat-based dog food, then Natural Balance Vegetarian Dry Dog Formula is an excellent option. This vegan, plant-based protein formula is designed to provide dogs with all the essential nutrients found in diets with meat as the primary protein source. Here are the pros and cons of this product:
Pros
- We appreciate that this formula is vegan and plant-based, making it an excellent option for dogs with allergies to animal proteins.
- Natural Balance has carefully chosen a simplified list of premium ingredients to help support a healthy coat, skin, and digestive system, making it a great option for dogs with sensitive stomachs.
- This formula is complete and balanced, providing essential nutrients to help maintain your dog’s healthy immune system.
Cons
- Some dogs may not like the taste of this vegetarian recipe, so it’s important to introduce it gradually to avoid any digestive issues.
- This formula may not be suitable for dogs with certain health conditions, so it’s always best to consult with your veterinarian before making any dietary changes.
- The price point for this formula may be higher than some other dog food options on the market.
Overall, we recommend Natural Balance Vegetarian Dry Dog Formula for dogs with allergies to animal proteins or sensitive stomachs. With its carefully selected ingredients and complete and balanced formula, this food provides a healthy and nutritious option for your furry friend.
Nulo Freestyle All Breed Dog Food
If you’re looking for a high-quality dog food that is perfect for dogs with allergies, Nulo Freestyle All Breed Dog Food is an excellent choice. Our experience with this product has been fantastic, and we highly recommend it.
Pros
- The salmon recipe is a great choice for dogs with allergies.
- The high meat/low carb formula provides better flavor and more amino acids.
- Omega-3 and Omega-6 fatty acids nourish your dog’s skin and promote a shiny coat.
Cons
- The cost is higher than some other dog foods.
- Some dogs may not like the taste.
- The kibbles may arrive broken due to shipping.
We were impressed with the quality of the ingredients in this dog food, and our dog loved the taste. The salmon recipe is a great choice for dogs with allergies, and the high meat/low carb formula provides better flavor and more amino acids. We also noticed that our dog’s coat looked healthier after switching to this food.
The limited ingredient formula is perfect for dogs who prefer a simpler diet, and we appreciate that it is made without common filler ingredients like corn and tapioca. The addition of Omega-3 and Omega-6 fatty acids also helps to promote healthy skin and a shiny coat.
While the cost is higher than some other dog foods, we believe that the quality of the ingredients justifies the price. However, some dogs may not like the taste, and the kibbles may arrive broken due to shipping.
Overall, we highly recommend Nulo Freestyle All Breed Dog Food for dogs with allergies. It is a high-quality dog food that is made in the USA and provides excellent nutrition for your furry friend.
Natural Balance Limited Ingredient Small Breed Adult Dry Dog Food
If you’re looking for a plant-based dog food option, Natural Balance Limited Ingredient Small Breed Adult Dry Dog Food is definitely worth considering.
Pros
- This vegetarian dog food contains the same essential nutrients as meat-based dog food.
- It is specially formulated for small dogs, making it easier for them to eat.
- The crunchy texture of the small-breed bites promotes clean teeth and healthy gums.
Cons
- While this dog food is a great option for vegetarian dogs, it may not provide enough protein for dogs that require higher amounts.
- Some dogs may not take to the taste of this vegetarian dog food.
- The price point for this dog food may be higher than other options.
We were impressed with the quality of the ingredients in this dog food. The plant-based protein, barley, and peas provide dogs with the nutrition they need while maintaining a meat-free diet. We also appreciated that this dog food is formulated with sensitive pets in mind, with a simplified list of premium ingredients to support a healthy coat, skin, and digestive system.
The small-breed bites are perfect for our little furry friend, and the crunchy texture promotes clean teeth and healthy gums. We also appreciate that Natural Balance’s ‘Feed with Confidence’ program tests every batch of food for safety, ensuring that our dog is getting the best possible nutrition.
Overall, if you’re looking for a vegetarian option for your small-breed dog, Natural Balance Limited Ingredient Small Breed Adult Dry Dog Food is definitely worth considering.
Blue Buffalo True Solutions Perfect Skin -amp; Coat Natural Adult Dry Dog Food, Salmon, 11-lb Salmon 11 Pound (Pack of 1)
If you’re looking for a dog food that helps manage your furry friend’s sensitive skin, Blue Buffalo True Solutions Perfect Skin -amp; Coat Natural Adult Dry Dog Food is definitely worth considering.
Pros
- The real salmon in this dog food makes it a tasty option for even picky eaters.
- The omega fatty acids in this dog food are clinically proven to support skin care, which can help manage your dog’s sensitive skin.
- The natural ingredients in this dog food are recommended by veterinarians and animal nutritionists, so you can feel good about what you’re feeding your dog.
Cons
- This dog food is quite expensive compared to other options.
- Some customers have reported that this dog food didn’t help their dog’s skin allergies.
- Some dogs may not like the taste of this dog food.
Our experience with Blue Buffalo True Solutions Perfect Skin -amp; Coat Natural Adult Dry Dog Food has been positive. Our dog loves the taste, and we’ve noticed an improvement in her sensitive skin since switching to this dog food. While it is more expensive than other options, we believe the natural ingredients and proven skin care benefits make it worth the investment.
If you’re looking for a dog food that can help manage your dog’s sensitive skin, we recommend giving Blue Buffalo True Solutions Perfect Skin -amp; Coat Natural Adult Dry Dog Food a try.
P.S. For Dogs, With Love
If you’re looking for a natural solution to your dog’s food allergies, P.S. For Dogs, With Love is worth considering.
Pros
- Our low glycemic formula prevents the growth of yeast on your dog’s paws, reducing paw licking and biting.
- Our limited ingredient formula contains human-grade New Zealand Lamb and other essential hypoallergenic ingredients, which will relieve your dog’s skin problems.
- Our recipe is grain-free, high protein and super addictive, perfect for dogs who are fussy about their food or need a grain-free or high protein diet.
Cons
- P.S. For Dogs, With Love is more expensive than other dog food brands.
- Some dogs may not like the taste of the lamb recipe.
- The food might not be suitable for larger dog breeds.
We’ve personally tried P.S. For Dogs, With Love dog food on our furry friend who has been suffering from food allergies, and we’re happy to say that it has improved his skin condition significantly. The low glycemic formula has reduced his paw licking, and the limited ingredient formula has relieved his skin problems. The air-dried lamb recipe is also a hit with our picky eater.
We appreciate that P.S. For Dogs, With Love is dedicated to delivering the highest quality complete diet for dogs with pet food sensitivities. The founder, Mike Cho, has spent years behind the pet store counter and has used his personal experiences to develop recipes that eliminate the most common pet food allergy triggers.
While P.S. For Dogs, With Love is more expensive than other dog food brands, we believe that the benefits outweigh the cost. We also received a series of emails from Mike with detailed instructions on how to introduce the food to our pet and tips and best practices once our pet started feeling better.
In conclusion, if you’re looking for a natural solution to your dog’s food allergies, P.S. For Dogs, With Love is definitely worth trying out.
Buying Guide
When looking for the best food for your dog with allergies, there are several factors to consider. Here are some features to look for when choosing a product:
Ingredients
It is important to carefully read the ingredients list on the dog food packaging. Avoid products that contain common allergens such as wheat, soy, and corn. Instead, opt for products that use alternative sources of protein and carbohydrates such as lamb, venison, sweet potato, and peas.
Limited Ingredient Diets
Some dog food manufacturers offer limited ingredient diets that are specifically formulated for dogs with allergies. These products typically contain a single source of protein and carbohydrate, making it easier to identify and eliminate potential allergens.
Grain-Free Options
Grain-free dog food has become increasingly popular in recent years, and it may be a good option for dogs with allergies. These products are made without grains such as wheat, corn, and soy, which are common allergens for dogs.
Hypoallergenic Formulas
Hypoallergenic dog food is specially formulated to reduce the risk of allergic reactions. These products typically contain hydrolyzed proteins, which are broken down into smaller molecules that are less likely to trigger an allergic response.
Allergy Testing
If you are unsure about what ingredients your dog is allergic to, consider allergy testing. Your veterinarian can perform a blood or skin test to identify potential allergens, which can help you choose the best food for your dog.
By considering these factors and taking the time to choose the right product, you can help alleviate your dog’s allergy symptoms and keep them healthy and happy.
Frequently Asked Questions
What ingredients should I look for in hypoallergenic dog food?
Hypoallergenic dog food should contain limited ingredients to reduce the risk of allergic reactions. Look for dog food that contains a single source of protein, such as lamb, fish, or duck. Avoid dog food that contains common allergens like chicken, beef, or dairy. Additionally, hypoallergenic dog food should be free from artificial colors, flavors, and preservatives.
How can I identify if my dog has food allergies or skin allergies?
Food allergies and skin allergies can have similar symptoms, making it difficult to identify the root cause of the problem. However, if your dog experiences gastrointestinal issues like vomiting or diarrhea after eating, it may be a sign of a food allergy. On the other hand, if your dog experiences skin irritation, itching, or redness, it may be a sign of a skin allergy. It’s important to consult with your veterinarian to determine the cause of your dog’s symptoms.
Are there any benefits to homemade diets for dogs with allergies?
Homemade diets can be beneficial for dogs with allergies because they allow you to control the ingredients in your dog’s food. However, it’s important to consult with a veterinary nutritionist to ensure that your dog is receiving a balanced and complete diet. Homemade diets can be time-consuming and expensive, so it’s important to weigh the benefits and drawbacks before deciding to switch to a homemade diet.
What are common signs that a dog is suffering from food-related allergies?
Common signs of food-related allergies in dogs include gastrointestinal issues like vomiting or diarrhea, skin irritation, itching, redness, and recurrent ear infections. It’s important to consult with your veterinarian to determine the cause of your dog’s symptoms and develop an appropriate treatment plan.
How does salmon-based dog food benefit dogs with skin allergies?
Salmon-based dog food is a good choice for dogs with skin allergies because it contains high levels of omega-3 fatty acids, which can help reduce inflammation and improve skin and coat health. Additionally, salmon is a novel protein source, meaning it’s less likely to cause allergic reactions in dogs.
Which human foods are safe to feed a dog with dietary allergies?
It’s important to avoid feeding your dog human food that contains common allergens like chicken, beef, or dairy. However, some human foods that are safe for dogs with dietary allergies include cooked chicken or turkey (without seasoning), plain cooked rice, and cooked sweet potatoes. It’s important to consult with your veterinarian before adding any new foods to your dog’s diet.