Best Dog Foods for Allergies: Top Picks for Sensitive Pups

When it comes to our furry friends, we want to ensure they are getting the best nutrition possible. However, for dogs with allergies, finding the right food can be a challenge. Allergies can cause a range of symptoms such as itching, skin irritation, and digestive issues. That’s why we’ve researched and tested various dog food options to identify the best ones for dogs with allergies.

The key factor to consider when purchasing dog food for allergies is the ingredients list. Look for foods that are free from common allergens such as wheat, corn, soy, and dairy. Additionally, consider foods that have limited ingredient lists and are made with high-quality protein sources like lamb, salmon, or duck.

After testing several options, we’ve identified the top five best dog foods for allergies. These foods not only meet the dietary needs of dogs with allergies but are also delicious and nutritious. With our recommendations, you can feel confident that your furry friend is getting the best possible nutrition to support their health and wellbeing.

Best Dog Foods for Allergies

As pet owners, we understand the importance of providing our furry friends with the best possible nutrition to keep them healthy and happy. However, for dogs with allergies, finding the right food can be a daunting task. With so many options available, it can be overwhelming to determine which dog food is the best for your pup’s specific needs. That’s why we’ve researched and compiled a list of the best dog foods for allergies. These products have been carefully selected based on their quality ingredients, nutritional value, and effectiveness in addressing common allergies in dogs. Whether your dog suffers from food sensitivities or environmental allergies, we’ve got you covered.

Hill’s Science Diet Adult Sensitive Stomach and Skin, Small Bites Dry Dog Food

If you’re looking for a dog food that promotes digestive health while nourishing your dog’s skin, Hill’s Science Diet Adult Sensitive Stomach and Skin, Small Bites Dry Dog Food is worth considering.

Pros

• This dog food is formulated to be highly digestible, making it easier for your dog to absorb the nutrients it needs.
• The smaller kibble size promotes digestive health while nourishing skin, and the added vitamins, minerals, and amino acids help maintain a healthy coat.
• Made with natural ingredients, this dog food is a great-tasting meal that adult dogs can truly enjoy.

Cons

• Some dogs may not like the taste of this dog food.
• The price may be a bit higher than other dog foods on the market.
• The packaging may not be as durable as some other brands.

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 with the results. Our dog seemed to enjoy the taste of the food, and we noticed that her coat became shinier and healthier-looking after a few weeks of eating this food.

One thing we appreciated about this dog food is that it is formulated to be highly digestible, which made it easier for our dog to absorb the nutrients she needed. The smaller kibble size also helped promote digestive health while nourishing her skin, which was an added bonus.

While the price of this dog food may be a bit higher than some other brands, we feel that the added benefits of the natural ingredients, added vitamins, minerals, and amino acids, and the great taste make it worth the investment.

Overall, if you’re looking for a dog food that promotes digestive health and nourishes your dog’s skin, Hill’s Science Diet Adult Sensitive Stomach and Skin, Small Bites Dry Dog Food is definitely worth considering.

Purina Pro Plan Sensitive Skin and Stomach Dog Food

If you’re looking for a dog food that is gentle on your dog’s stomach, then Purina Pro Plan Sensitive Skin and Stomach Dog Food may be worth considering.

Pros

• Oat meal is easily digestible and gentle on the digestive system
• High protein formula, with real salmon as the first ingredient
• Fortified with guaranteed live probiotics for digestive and immune health

Cons

• Some dogs may not like the taste
• Contains some fillers, such as corn gluten meal
• Some customers have reported that the kibble size is too small for larger dogs

We recently tried Purina Pro Plan Sensitive Skin and Stomach Dog Food for our dog who has a sensitive stomach. We were initially drawn to this product because it contains real salmon as the first ingredient and is formulated to be gentle on dogs with food sensitivities.

One of the things we liked about this dog food is that it contains oat meal, which is easily digestible and gentle on the digestive system. We noticed that our dog’s stomach seemed to handle this food well and there were no signs of digestive upset.

Another benefit of this dog food is that it is a high protein formula, which is important for maintaining muscle mass and overall health. We also appreciated that it is fortified with guaranteed live probiotics for digestive and immune health.

However, we did notice that our dog wasn’t as excited about this food as she has been with other brands. Some customers have also reported that the kibble size is too small for larger dogs, which may be a concern for some pet owners. Additionally, this dog food does contain some fillers, such as corn gluten meal.

Overall, we think that Purina Pro Plan Sensitive Skin and Stomach Dog Food is a solid option for dogs with food sensitivities. However, it may not be the best choice for dogs who are picky eaters or who need larger kibble sizes.

Hill’s Science Diet Sensitive Stomach -amp; Skin Adult Dog Food

If you’re looking for a dog food that promotes digestive health while nourishing skin and coat, Hill’s Science Diet Sensitive Stomach -amp; Skin Adult Dog Food is a great option.

Pros

• This dog food uses prebiotic fiber to support a balanced gut microbiome in your grown dog.
• It is formulated to be highly digestible for optimal nutrient absorption and easier stool pick-up.
• Packed with vitamin E and Omega 6 fatty acids to help your grown dog get a lustrous coat and healthy skin.

Cons

• Some dogs may not like the taste.
• It may not be suitable for dogs with severe allergies.
• This dog food is more expensive than some other options.

We have been using this dog food for a while now and have seen a noticeable improvement in our dog’s digestive health and coat. The prebiotic fiber in the food has helped maintain a balanced microbiome in his gut, which has led to easier digestion and less stomach upset. We also appreciate that the food is made with natural ingredients and provides a good source of vitamin E and Omega 6 fatty acids for skin and coat health.

However, we have noticed that some dogs may not like the taste of this food, so it may take some time to find the right flavor for your pet. Additionally, while this food is great for dogs with mild to moderate allergies, it may not be suitable for dogs with severe allergies. Finally, this food is more expensive than some other options, so it may not be the best choice for budget-conscious pet owners. Overall, we would recommend Hill’s Science Diet Sensitive Stomach -amp; Skin Adult Dog Food for its digestive and skin benefits, but be aware of the potential downsides.

Natural Balance Limited Ingredient Adult Grain-Free Dry Dog Food, Reserve Sweet Potato -amp; Venison Recipe

If you’re looking for a high-quality dog food that is grain-free and perfect for dogs with allergies, then Natural Balance Limited Ingredient Adult Grain-Free Dry Dog Food is an excellent choice. This food is made with venison as the single animal protein source and sweet potatoes as a grain-free source of fiber to support digestive health. Here’s what we think about this dog food:

Pros

• Venison is a single 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.
• Nutrients from the venison recipe are crafted with nutritious ingredients such as pea protein, fish oil, and sweet potatoes, making it complete and balanced with essential nutrients to help maintain your dog’s healthy immune system.

Cons

• Some dogs may not like the taste of venison, which could make it difficult to transition to this food.
• The price point is higher than other dog food brands, which may not be suitable for those on a budget.
• The kibble size is not suitable for small dogs, which could make it difficult for them to eat.

We have been feeding our dog Natural Balance Limited Ingredient Adult Grain-Free Dry Dog Food for a few months now, and we have noticed a significant improvement in her coat, skin, and digestive system. We love that this food is made with a single animal protein source and does not contain any added grain, soy, gluten, or artificial colors or flavors.

Our dog has a sensitive stomach, and this food has been perfect for her. We have tried other dog food brands in the past, but this one is by far the best. We also appreciate that Natural Balance’s ‘Feed with Confidence’ program tests every batch of food from start to finish, ensuring safety with every bite.

Overall, we highly recommend Natural Balance Limited Ingredient Adult Grain-Free Dry Dog Food for anyone looking for a high-quality dog food that is perfect for dogs with allergies.

Purina ONE High Protein Dry Senior Dog Food Plus Vibrant Maturity Adult 7 Plus Formula

If you’re looking for a high-quality dog food for your senior pup, then Purina ONE High Protein Dry Senior Dog Food Plus Vibrant Maturity Adult 7 Plus Formula is definitely worth considering.

Pros

• The MCT-rich vegetable oil in this dog food helps nourish and promote mental sharpness in older dogs, resulting in an increased average activity level of over 20 percent.
• Real chicken is the number one ingredient, making this a high-protein dog food that supports strong muscles, including a healthy heart.
• Four antioxidant sources in this dog food support a strong immune system, and natural sources of glucosamine help support joint health.

Cons

• Some dogs may not like the taste of this dog food.
• This dog food may be slightly more expensive than some other options on the market.
• The kibble size may not be suitable for very small dogs.

We recently tried this dog food with our senior pup, and we were impressed with the results. Our dog seemed to have more energy and was more alert after eating this food for a few days. We also noticed an improvement in her coat and skin health, which we attribute to the omega-6 fatty acids and other vitamins and minerals in the formula.

The kibble itself is a mix of crunchy bites and tender meaty morsels, which our dog seemed to enjoy. We also appreciated that this dog food is made with no artificial flavors or preservatives, and that it is crafted in Purina-owned, U.S. facilities.

Overall, we would definitely recommend Purina ONE High Protein Dry Senior Dog Food Plus Vibrant Maturity Adult 7 Plus Formula to other dog owners looking for a high-quality dog food for their senior pups.

IAMS Adult High Protein Large Breed Dry Dog Food

If you’re looking for a complete and balanced meal for your adult dog that’s free of fillers, IAMS Adult High Protein Large Breed Dry Dog Food with Real Chicken is a great choice.

Pros

• Contains natural sources of glucosamine and chondroitin for strong bones and joints
• Enriched with essential nutrients and antioxidants to support whole body health
• Supports strong, firm muscles with protein sourced from chicken and egg

Cons

• Some dogs may not like the taste or texture
• May cause digestive issues in some dogs
• Contains chicken, which may not be suitable for dogs with chicken sensitivity

We’ve been feeding our dog IAMS Adult High Protein Large Breed Dry Dog Food for a while now and have seen noticeable improvements in her coat and overall health. The natural sources of glucosamine and chondroitin have helped her maintain strong bones and joints, and the essential nutrients and antioxidants have supported her whole body health. Plus, the protein sourced from chicken and egg has helped her build strong, firm muscles.

However, we have noticed that some dogs may not like the taste or texture of this food, and it may cause digestive issues in some dogs. Additionally, it’s important to note that this food contains chicken, which may not be suitable for dogs with chicken sensitivity.

Overall, if you’re looking for a high-quality dog food that’s complete and balanced, IAMS Adult High Protein Large Breed Dry Dog Food with Real Chicken is definitely worth considering. Just be sure to monitor your dog’s reaction to the food and consult with your vet if you have any concerns.

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)

We highly recommend the Natural Balance Limited Ingredient Small Breed Adult Grain-Free Dry Dog Food, Salmon -amp; Sweet Potato Recipe, 4 Pound (Pack of 1) for dogs with allergies. This food is made with a limited number of premium ingredients to help support a healthy coat, skin, and digestive system. It is made with a single animal protein source and does not include any added grain, soy, gluten, or artificial colors or flavors.

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.
• Specially formulated for small dogs made with the same balanced nutritional philosophy, our Small Breed recipes are tailored to your dog.

Cons

• Some dogs may not like the taste.
• It may be more expensive than other dog food brands.
• The kibble size may be too small for larger breeds.

We have personally used this product for our dog with allergies and have seen a significant improvement in his overall health and well-being. The limited ingredient formula has helped to alleviate his skin and coat issues, and he loves the taste of the salmon and sweet potato recipe.

The small kibble size is perfect for our small breed dog, and we appreciate that the formula is tailored to meet the unique nutritional needs of small dogs. We also trust the safety and transparency of Natural Balance’s ‘Feed with Confidence’ program, which tests every batch of food from start to finish, ensuring safety with every bite.

Overall, we highly recommend the Natural Balance Limited Ingredient Small Breed Adult Grain-Free Dry Dog Food, Salmon -amp; Sweet Potato Recipe, 4 Pound (Pack of 1) for dogs with allergies. It is a high-quality, nutritious, and delicious option that will help support your dog’s overall health and well-being.

Wellness CORE Digestive Health Dry Dog Food with Wholesome Grains, Highly Digestible, for Dogs with Sensitive Stomachs, Made in USA with Real Protein (Whitefish -amp; Brown Rice, 4-Pound Bag) Whitefish 4 Pound (Pack of 1)

We highly recommend the Wellness CORE Digestive Health Dry Dog Food for dogs with sensitive stomachs. This highly digestible, probiotic-coated dog kibble is made with digestive enzymes, a blend of prebiotic fibers, and guaranteed levels of probiotics to support gut health for overall wellbeing and vitality.

Pros

• This dog food supports digestive health and is highly digestible.
• It supports sensitive stomachs with high-quality protein from whitefish and wholesome grains from brown rice.
• It supports immune health and a healthy microbiome, which is essential to ensure your dog’s immune system functions at its best.

Cons

• Some dogs may not like the taste of whitefish.
• The kibble size may be too large for smaller breeds.
• It is more expensive than some other dog food brands.

We have been using this dog food for our dog with a sensitive stomach for several months now and have noticed a significant improvement in his overall health. He no longer has digestive issues and his coat is shinier and softer than ever before.

The inclusion of protein and omega fatty acids in the kibble ensure your dog’s coat stays lustrous and soft, and the blend of prebiotic fibers and probiotics support a healthy microbiome, which is essential for a strong immune system.

Overall, we highly recommend the Wellness CORE Digestive Health Dry Dog Food for dogs with sensitive stomachs. While it may be more expensive than some other brands, the benefits to your dog’s health and wellbeing make it well worth the investment.

PS for Dogs, With Love

We highly recommend PS for Dogs, With Love for dog owners who want to relieve their pets’ allergies and improve their skin and coat health naturally.

Pros

• Reduces paw licking and biting
• Solves skin itching, redness, bumps, and foul odor
• Grain-free, high protein, and super addictive

Cons

• Expensive compared to other dog foods
• Small bag size
• Some dogs may not like the taste

PS for Dogs, With Love is a limited ingredient dog food made with high-quality, human-grade New Zealand lamb and other essential hypoallergenic ingredients. The low glycemic formula prevents the growth of yeast on your dog’s paws, which is the leading cause of paw licking and biting in dogs today. This dog food is also free from grains and other common allergens, making it perfect for dogs with food sensitivities.

The air-dried recipe creates soft, irresistible pieces of meaty goodness that your dog will love. It’s perfect as a hypoallergenic treat or a complete diet for dogs with pet food sensitivities. PS for Dogs, With Love is made in New Zealand in small batches for quality, ensuring that your dog gets the best nutrition possible.

Overall, PS for Dogs, With Love is an excellent choice for dog owners who want to provide their pets with a high-quality, hypoallergenic dog food that solves allergies naturally. While it may be more expensive than other dog foods, the benefits it provides make it well worth the investment.

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 natural dog food that can help manage your dog’s sensitive skin, Blue Buffalo True Solutions Perfect Skin -amp; Coat Natural Adult Dry Dog Food might be the right choice for you. This dry dog food is formulated with high-quality salmon, healthy whole grains, and natural ingredients that are enhanced with vitamins, minerals, and other nutrients. It also contains omega fatty acids that are clinically proven to support skin care.

Pros

• The natural ingredients in this dog food are recommended by veterinarians, so you can trust that it’s a science-based formula that will benefit your dog’s health.
• This dog food contains no chicken (or poultry) by-product meals and no corn, wheat, soy, artificial flavors, or preservatives. This means that it’s a healthy and natural option for your dog.
• Blue Buffalo True Solutions Perfect Skin -amp; Coat Natural Adult Dry Dog Food is made with antioxidant-rich LifeSource Bits, which are a blend of vitamins, minerals, and other nutrients that are carefully selected by veterinarians and animal nutritionists.

Cons

• This dog food is quite expensive, so it might not be the best option if you’re on a tight budget.
• Some customers have reported that their dogs didn’t like the taste or smell of this dog food, so it might not be suitable for picky eaters.
• While this dog food has been clinically proven to support skin care, it might not work for every dog with sensitive skin or allergies.

If you’re looking for a natural and science-based dog food that can help manage your dog’s sensitive skin, Blue Buffalo True Solutions Perfect Skin -amp; Coat Natural Adult Dry Dog Food might be a good choice for you. We love that it’s made with high-quality salmon and healthy whole grains, and that it contains no chicken (or poultry) by-product meals and no corn, wheat, soy, artificial flavors, or preservatives. However, it is quite expensive and might not work for every dog with sensitive skin or allergies.

Buying Guide

When choosing the best dog food for allergies, there are a few key features to look for to ensure you are making the right choice for your furry friend. Here are some factors to consider:

Ingredients

The first thing to look at when choosing a dog food for allergies is the ingredients list. Avoid foods that contain common allergens such as wheat, corn, soy, and dairy. Instead, look for foods that are made with high-quality proteins such as chicken, lamb, or fish. It’s also important to choose a food that is free from artificial preservatives, colors, and flavors.

Nutritional Value

When it comes to dog food, nutritional value is essential. Look for a food that provides a balanced diet with all the necessary vitamins and minerals. Check the label to ensure that the food meets the Association of American Feed Control Officials (AAFCO) standards for complete and balanced nutrition.

Grain-free Options

If your dog has a grain allergy, consider choosing a grain-free dog food. These foods are made without grains such as wheat, corn, and rice and instead use alternative sources of carbohydrates such as sweet potatoes or peas.

Limited Ingredient Diets

Another option to consider is a limited ingredient diet. These foods are made with a limited number of ingredients to minimize the risk of triggering an allergic reaction. They are also a good option for dogs with sensitive stomachs.

Allergen Testing

Finally, some dog food brands offer allergen testing to ensure that their products are free from common allergens. If your dog has severe allergies, this may be a good option to consider.

By considering these factors and doing your research, you can choose the best dog food for allergies that meets your dog’s nutritional needs while minimizing the risk of allergic reactions.

Frequently Asked Questions

What ingredients should I look for in dog food to prevent allergies?

When selecting dog food to prevent allergies, it is important to look for hypoallergenic ingredients such as lamb, salmon, or duck as the primary protein source. Avoid dog foods that contain common allergens such as chicken, beef, or dairy products. Additionally, look for dog foods that are free from artificial preservatives, colors, and flavors.

How can I tell if my dog’s food is causing their allergies?

If your dog is experiencing symptoms such as itching, excessive scratching, hair loss, or ear infections, it may be a sign of a food allergy. To determine if your dog’s food is causing their allergies, try a food elimination diet. This involves feeding your dog a novel protein source (such as lamb or duck) and a carbohydrate source they have not had before (such as sweet potato or peas) for 12 weeks. If symptoms improve, you can slowly reintroduce other foods to see if the symptoms return.

Are there specific dog food brands recommended for dogs with skin allergies?

There are several dog food brands that are recommended for dogs with skin allergies, including Hill’s Science Diet, Royal Canin, and Purina Pro Plan. These brands offer hypoallergenic dog foods that are formulated to reduce the risk of allergic reactions.

What are the benefits of hypoallergenic dog food for allergy-prone dogs?

Hypoallergenic dog food is formulated with novel protein sources and carbohydrates to reduce the risk of allergic reactions. These dog foods are also free from common allergens such as chicken, beef, and dairy products. By feeding your dog hypoallergenic dog food, you can help reduce their symptoms and improve their quality of life.

Can homemade diets be effective for dogs with food allergies?

Homemade diets can be effective for dogs with food allergies, but it is important to work with a veterinarian or veterinary nutritionist to ensure that the diet is nutritionally balanced. Homemade diets should include a novel protein source and a carbohydrate source that your dog has not had before. Additionally, the diet should be free from common allergens such as chicken, beef, and dairy products.

What is the most common allergen in dog foods that owners should be aware of?

The most common allergen in dog foods is chicken, followed by beef, dairy products, and eggs. If your dog is experiencing symptoms of a food allergy, it is important to check the ingredient list on their dog food to see if it contains any of these common allergens.