Best Food for Dog with Itchy Skin: Top Picks for a Healthy Diet

If you have a dog with itchy skin, you know how frustrating it can be to watch them suffer. Fortunately, choosing the right food can make a significant difference in their comfort level. In this article, we’ll explore the best food for dogs with itchy skin.

When it comes to choosing food for your dog, it’s essential to pay attention to the ingredients. Some ingredients can cause allergic reactions or exacerbate existing skin issues. Look for food that is free of common allergens like wheat, corn, and soy. Instead, opt for high-quality proteins like chicken, turkey, or fish.

Another important consideration is the presence of omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids. These essential fatty acids can help reduce inflammation and promote healthy skin and coat. Look for food that contains fish oil or flaxseed oil to ensure your dog is getting enough of these beneficial nutrients.

When selecting food for your dog with itchy skin, it’s crucial to consult with your veterinarian. They can help you identify any underlying health issues that may be contributing to your dog’s skin problems and recommend the best food for their specific needs.

In our research, we tested several brands of dog food to identify the best options for dogs with itchy skin. We evaluated the ingredients, nutritional value, and overall quality to provide you with the most comprehensive information possible.

Best Dog Food for Itchy Skin

As dog owners, we understand how difficult it can be to see our furry friends suffer from itchy skin. It can be caused by a variety of factors, including allergies and poor nutrition. That’s why we’ve researched and tested various dog foods to bring you the best options to help alleviate your dog’s itchy skin. Below are our top picks for the best dog food for itchy skin.

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 helps manage your dog’s sensitive skin, Blue Buffalo True Solutions Perfect Skin -amp; Coat Natural Adult Dry Dog Food is worth considering. This dog food is formulated with real salmon, healthy whole grains, and the finest natural ingredients enhanced with vitamins, minerals, and other nutrients. It contains omega fatty acids clinically proven to support skin care and has no corn, wheat, soy, dairy, or eggs, which may cause sensitivities.

Pros

• The dog food is made with high-quality salmon and includes fruits and vegetables to help care for your dog’s sensitive skin, naturally.
• Omega 3 -amp; 6 fatty acids clinically proven to support healthy skin and shiny coat.
• Blue True Solutions is a science-based dog food with no chicken (or poultry) by-product meals and no corn, wheat, soy, artificial flavors, or preservatives.

Cons

• Expensive compared to other dog food brands.
• Some customers report that it doesn’t help with their dog’s skin allergies.
• Some dogs may not like the taste or texture of the food.

We tried Blue Buffalo True Solutions Perfect Skin -amp; Coat Natural Adult Dry Dog Food with our dog who has sensitive skin, and we were impressed with the results. Our dog’s coat looked shinier and felt softer after eating this food for a few weeks. We also noticed that she was scratching less than before. We appreciated that the food is made with natural ingredients and doesn’t contain any artificial flavors or preservatives. However, the cost of this dog food is higher than other brands, and some customers report that it doesn’t help with their dog’s skin allergies. Some dogs may also not like the taste or texture of the food. Overall, we recommend this product for dogs with sensitive skin who need a high-quality, natural dog food.

Purina ONE Natural, Sensitive Stomach Dry Dog Food, Plus Skin -amp; Coat Formula – 31.1 lb. Bag Salmon 31.1 Pound (Pack of 1)

If you’re looking for a high-quality dog food that can help your furry friend with itchy skin, Purina ONE Natural, Sensitive Stomach Dry Dog Food is a great option. This dog food features real salmon as the #1 ingredient and contains a SmartBlend of high-quality ingredients that promote healthy skin and a radiant coat.

Pros

• Real salmon as the #1 ingredient helps support strong muscles, including a healthy heart.
• SmartBlend of high-quality ingredients, along with vitamin E and omega-6 fatty acids, promotes healthy skin and a radiant coat.
• Contains natural sources of glucosamine to help support joint health.

Cons

• Some dogs may not like the taste of salmon.
• The kibble may be too hard for some dogs to chew.
• May not be suitable for dogs with severe allergies.

If you’re looking for a dog food that can help your furry friend with itchy skin, Purina ONE Natural, Sensitive Stomach Dry Dog Food is definitely worth considering. We were impressed with the quality of the ingredients and the fact that this dog food is made in Purina-owned, U.S. facilities with no artificial colors, flavors, or preservatives.

The real salmon in this dog food is a great source of high-quality protein, which helps support strong muscles, including a healthy heart. Additionally, the SmartBlend of high-quality ingredients, along with vitamin E and omega-6 fatty acids, promotes healthy skin and a radiant coat. We also appreciate that this dog food contains natural sources of glucosamine to help support joint health.

While most dogs seem to love the taste of this dog food, some may not like the taste of salmon. Additionally, the kibble may be too hard for some dogs to chew. Finally, while this dog food is made with sensitive stomachs in mind, it may not be suitable for dogs with severe allergies.

Overall, we highly recommend Purina ONE Natural, Sensitive Stomach Dry Dog Food for dogs with itchy skin. It’s a high-quality dog food that’s made with real salmon and other high-quality ingredients, and it’s sure to leave your furry friend feeling healthy and happy.

Purina Pro Plan Sensitive Skin and Stomach Dog Food Salmon and Rice Formula

If you’re searching for a dog food that addresses sensitive skin and stomach issues, Purina Pro Plan Sensitive Skin and Stomach Dog Food Salmon and Rice Formula is a great option.

Pros

• The formula is made with easily digestible ingredients such as oatmeal and rice, making it gentle on your dog’s stomach.
• With salmon as the first ingredient, this dog food is protein-rich and provides essential nutrients for your dog’s overall health.
• The formula is fortified with guaranteed live probiotics that support your dog’s digestive and immune health.

Cons

• This dog food is a bit pricier than some other options on the market.
• The kibble size may be too small for larger dogs.
• Some dogs may not like the taste of the fish-based formula.

We’ve been using Purina Pro Plan Sensitive Skin and Stomach Dog Food Salmon and Rice Formula for a few months now, and we’ve noticed a significant improvement in our dog’s skin and coat health. The formula is easy on his stomach and he seems to enjoy the taste.

One thing to note is that the kibble size is quite small, so it may not be the best choice for larger breeds. Additionally, the price point is a bit higher than some other dog food options, but we believe it’s worth it for the quality of the ingredients and the positive impact it has had on our dog’s health.

Overall, we highly recommend Purina Pro Plan Sensitive Skin and Stomach Dog Food Salmon and Rice Formula for dogs with sensitive skin and stomach issues.

Nutro So Simple Meal Complement Wet Dog Food Chicken and Chicken -amp; Duck Recipes in Bone Broth Variety Pack

If you’re looking for a simple and healthy dog food topper, Nutro So Simple Meal Complement Wet Dog Food is a great option.

Pros

• Made with only 7 natural ingredients, including real chicken and duck.
• Can be used as a mix-in, topper, or snack for added flavor.
• Crafted with 100% natural ingredients, without grains, chicken by-product meal, corn, wheat, soy, and no artificial flavors, colors, or preservatives.

Cons

• Expensive compared to other dog food toppers.
• Some customers reported clumping of the food in the tubs.
• Not suitable for dogs with dietary restrictions, as it contains chicken and duck.

We’ve used Nutro So Simple Meal Complement Wet Dog Food for our furry friend and noticed a significant improvement in his skin condition. The simple recipe made with real chicken and duck is easy to digest and doesn’t cause any stomach issues. Our dog loves the added flavor, and we enjoy knowing that we’re giving him quality ingredients without any harmful additives.

The small 2 oz. tubs are convenient for on-the-go meals, and the variety pack allows us to switch up the flavors. However, the price point is higher than other dog food toppers on the market, and some tubs may have clumping issues. It’s also important to note that this product may not be suitable for dogs with dietary restrictions, as it contains chicken and duck.

Overall, if you’re looking for a simple and healthy dog food topper, Nutro So Simple Meal Complement Wet Dog Food is worth considering. It’s made with quality ingredients and can be used in various ways to add flavor to your dog’s meals.

Nature’s Recipe Original Dry Dog Food for Adult Dogs, Lamb -amp; Rice Recipe, 24 lb Bag

If you’re looking for a natural dog food that can help support your dog’s overall health and wellbeing, Nature’s Recipe Original dry dog food is a great choice to consider. Here are the pros and cons of this product:

Pros

• Real, protein-rich lamb as the #1 ingredient to help support strong muscles
• Nutrient-dense whole grains, such as rice, oatmeal, and barley, contain fiber to help support healthy digestion
• No added corn, wheat, soy, or artificial flavors, colors, or preservatives

Cons

• Some dogs may not like the taste of lamb and rice
• The kibble may be too hard for some dogs with dental issues
• The price may be higher than some other dog food brands

We’ve been using Nature’s Recipe Original dry dog food for a few months now, and we’ve noticed a positive change in our dog’s coat and overall energy levels. The lamb and rice recipe seems to agree with his sensitive stomach, and we appreciate that there are no added artificial ingredients.

One thing to note is that some dogs may not like the taste of lamb and rice, so it’s important to introduce this food slowly and monitor your dog’s reaction. Additionally, the kibble may be too hard for some dogs with dental issues, so it’s important to consider your dog’s individual needs.

Overall, we would recommend Nature’s Recipe Original dry dog food to anyone looking for a natural and nutritious option for their adult dog.

Rachael Ray Nutrish Premium Natural Dry Dog Food

If you’re looking for a dog food that can help with your furry friend’s itchy skin, Rachael Ray Nutrish Premium Natural Dry Dog Food is a great option to consider.

Pros

• Real beef is the number one ingredient, which helps support healthy organs and maintain lean muscle mass.
• The Whole Health Blend includes omega-3 fatty acids from fish oil to help support an active mind, antioxidants like those found in superfoods to help support a healthy body, and whole grains to help maintain balanced energy levels.
• No fillers, artificial flavors, or artificial preservatives.

Cons

• Some dogs may not like the taste.
• The kibble size may be too big for smaller dogs.
• The bag is quite large and may be difficult to store if you have limited space.

We’ve been using Rachael Ray Nutrish for a few months now, and we’ve noticed a significant improvement in our dog’s skin and coat. The real beef and other natural ingredients help to support his overall health, and we feel good knowing that a portion of the proceeds from the sale of this product will be donated to The Rachael Ray Foundation, which helps animals in need.

The kibble size is a bit large for our smaller dog, but he doesn’t seem to mind. However, we have heard from other dog owners that their pets don’t like the taste of this food, so it may not be the best option for picky eaters.

Overall, we highly recommend Rachael Ray Nutrish Premium Natural Dry Dog Food for dogs with itchy skin. It’s a high-quality, nutritious option that can help support your dog’s overall health and well-being.

Hill’s Science Diet Dry Dog Food

We highly recommend Hill’s Science Diet Dry Dog Food for small and miniature breed dogs with sensitive skin and stomachs. This dog food is formulated with prebiotic fiber, omega 6 fatty acids, and other nutrients to promote optimal digestive health, nourish skin, and promote a lustrous coat.

Pros

• The prebiotic fiber in this dog food helps to feed your dog’s microbiome, promoting optimal digestive health.
• Hill’s Science Diet is formulated with smaller kibble, making it easier for small and miniature breed dogs to eat.
• The precise balance of nutrients and highly digestible ingredients make this dog food a great option for dogs with sensitive skin and stomachs.

Cons

• This dog food is more expensive than some other brands on the market.
• Some dogs may not like the taste of this dog food.
• The bag size may not be suitable for larger breed dogs.

We recently tried Hill’s Science Diet Dry Dog Food for our small dog with sensitive skin and stomach issues. We were impressed with the high-quality ingredients and noticed a significant improvement in our dog’s skin and coat health after just a few weeks of use. The smaller kibble size was also a plus, as it made it easier for our dog to eat. However, we did find that this dog food is more expensive than some other brands on the market, and some dogs may not like the taste. Overall, we highly recommend Hill’s Science Diet Dry Dog Food for small and miniature breed dogs with sensitive skin and stomachs.

Solid Gold Small Breed Dog Food – Nutrientboost Wee Bit Whole Grain Made w/Real Bison, Brown Rice, -amp; Pearled Barley – High Fiber, Probiotic Dry Dog Food for Dogs with Sensitive Stomachs – 3.75 LB 3.75 Pound (Pack of 1)

If you’re looking for a high-quality dog food that can help alleviate your furry friend’s itchy skin, Solid Gold Small Breed Dog Food is definitely worth considering.

Pros

• Real, lean bison provides a delicious, iron-rich source of protein.
• Small kibble size makes it easy for toy and small breed dogs to chew.
• Includes fiber-rich prebiotics and living probiotics to support gut health and overall immune support.

Cons

• More expensive than some other dog foods on the market.
• Some dogs may not like the taste of bison.
• May not be suitable for dogs with certain dietary restrictions.

We’ve been using Solid Gold Small Breed Dog Food for a few months now, and we’ve definitely noticed an improvement in our dog’s skin and coat. The bison-based recipe provides a good source of protein, and the small kibble size is perfect for our toy breed dog.

One of the things we really appreciate about this dog food is that it includes prebiotics and living probiotics. These help support our dog’s gut health, which is important for overall immune function. We’ve also noticed that our dog seems to digest this food well and doesn’t experience any digestive upset or discomfort.

While this dog food is more expensive than some other options, we feel it’s worth the investment for the quality ingredients and potential health benefits. However, we do understand that it may not be feasible for everyone’s budget.

Overall, we highly recommend Solid Gold Small Breed Dog Food for dogs with itchy skin or sensitive stomachs. It’s a high-quality, nutrient-rich option that can help support your dog’s overall health and wellbeing.

IAMS Advanced Health Skin -amp; Coat Adult Dry Dog Food Chicken and Salmon Recipe

If you want to give your furry friend a healthy and nutritious meal that supports their skin and coat health, IAMS Advanced Health Skin -amp; Coat Adult Dry Dog Food Chicken and Salmon Recipe is a great option.

Pros

• IAMS Smartcoat Blend with Omega fatty acids, zinc, and vitamin E promotes skin health and coat luster.
• Made with real chicken and salmon to maintain strong, healthy muscles.
• Contains whole grains that provide your dog with essential nutrients and carbohydrates for healthy energy all day.

Cons

• Trace amounts of fillers, artificial flavors, or preservatives may be present due to potential cross-contact during manufacturing.
• May not be suitable for dogs with specific dietary restrictions.
• Some dogs may not like the taste or texture of the kibble.

We have been using IAMS Advanced Health Skin -amp; Coat Adult Dry Dog Food Chicken and Salmon Recipe for a few months now, and we have noticed a significant improvement in our dog’s coat and skin health. The kibble is made with real chicken and salmon, which our dog loves, and it provides him with the essential nutrients and carbohydrates he needs to stay active and healthy.

The IAMS Smartcoat Blend with Omega fatty acids, zinc, and vitamin E has also helped to promote our dog’s skin health and coat luster. We have noticed a significant reduction in his itching and scratching, which is a great relief for both him and us.

While we appreciate that IAMS Advanced Health Skin -amp; Coat Adult Dry Dog Food Chicken and Salmon Recipe is formulated without fillers, artificial flavors, or preservatives, we do wish that there were no trace amounts present due to potential cross-contact during manufacturing.

Overall, we highly recommend IAMS Advanced Health Skin -amp; Coat Adult Dry Dog Food Chicken and Salmon Recipe to any pet parent looking for a nutritious and healthy meal that supports their dog’s skin and coat health.

Hill’s Science Diet Dry Dog Food, Adult, Sensitive Stomach -amp; Skin, Chicken Recipe, 30 lb. Bag Chicken -amp; Barley 3.75 Gallon (Pack of 1)

If you’re looking for a high-quality dog food that helps support a healthy digestive system and nourish your dog’s skin, Hill’s Science Diet Sensitive Stomach -amp; Skin Adult Dog Food is an excellent choice.

Pros

• Promotes digestive health while nourishing skin
• Highly digestible for optimal nutrient absorption -amp; easier stool pick-up
• Packed with vitamin E -amp; Omega-6 fatty acids to help your grown dog get a lustrous coat and healthy skin

Cons

• Some dogs may not like the taste
• More expensive than some other dog foods
• Contains chicken, which may not be suitable for dogs with chicken allergies

We’ve been using Hill’s Science Diet Sensitive Stomach -amp; Skin Adult Dog Food for a few months now, and we’ve been very happy with the results. Our dog has a sensitive stomach and used to experience frequent bouts of diarrhea, but since switching to this food, she’s had no digestive issues at all.

The food is highly digestible, which means that our dog is able to absorb more of the nutrients in the food, and we’ve noticed that her coat is shinier and healthier-looking than it was before. The food is also very easy to pick up, which makes cleaning up after our dog much easier.

One thing to keep in mind is that the food does contain chicken, which may not be suitable for dogs with chicken allergies. Some dogs may also not like the taste of the food, although we haven’t had any issues with this ourselves.

Overall, we would definitely recommend Hill’s Science Diet Sensitive Stomach -amp; Skin Adult Dog Food to anyone looking for a high-quality dog food that supports digestive health and nourishes your dog’s skin.

Buying Guide

When selecting the best food for dogs with itchy skin, it’s important to consider several factors to ensure that the food meets your dog’s nutritional needs and effectively addresses skin irritation. Here are some key features to look for when choosing the best food for your dog with itchy skin:

Ingredients

The first thing to consider when selecting a dog food for itchy skin is the ingredients. Look for high-quality protein sources like chicken, fish, or lamb, and avoid foods that contain fillers or by-products. Additionally, consider adding foods that contain omega-3 fatty acids, which can help reduce inflammation and improve skin health.

Grain-free options

Some dogs with itchy skin may have sensitivities to grains. If this is the case for your dog, consider selecting a grain-free food. Grain-free foods are made without wheat, corn, or soy, which can be common allergens for dogs.

Limited ingredient diets

If you suspect that your dog’s skin irritation is caused by a food allergy, consider selecting a limited ingredient diet. These diets are made with a minimal number of ingredients, making it easier to identify and avoid allergens.

Supplements

In addition to selecting the right food, consider adding supplements to your dog’s diet to help improve skin health. Omega-3 fatty acid supplements, for example, can help reduce inflammation and improve skin health. Probiotics can also be beneficial, as they can help support a healthy immune system and improve digestion.

By considering these features when selecting a food for your dog with itchy skin, you can help ensure that you are providing your dog with the best possible nutrition to support skin health.

Frequently Asked Questions

What ingredients should I look for in dog food to help with itchy skin?

When looking for dog food to help with itchy skin, it is important to look for ingredients that are high in omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids. These ingredients can help improve your dog’s skin and coat health. Some examples of ingredients that are high in fatty acids include fish oil, flaxseed, and canola oil.

Are there any natural remedies to relieve dogs with itchy skin?

Yes, there are some natural remedies that can help relieve dogs with itchy skin. Some examples include adding coconut oil to their diet, giving them an oatmeal bath, and using aloe vera. However, it is important to consult with your veterinarian before trying any natural remedies to ensure they are safe and appropriate for your dog.

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

If your dog has skin allergies, it can be difficult to identify the specific ingredient that is causing the allergic reaction. However, some common signs that your dog’s food may be causing their skin allergies include excessive itching, redness or inflammation of the skin, and recurrent ear infections. Your veterinarian can help you identify the specific allergen through allergy testing.

What are the benefits of salmon-based dog foods for dogs with skin allergies?

Salmon-based dog foods are a great option for dogs with skin allergies because they are high in omega-3 fatty acids, which can help improve skin and coat health. Additionally, salmon is a great source of protein and is less likely to cause allergic reactions than other types of protein.

What is the most affordable hypoallergenic dog food option available?

There are several affordable hypoallergenic dog food options available on the market. Some popular options include Purina Pro Plan Veterinary Diets HA Hydrolyzed, Hill’s Prescription Diet z/d Ultra, and Royal Canin Veterinary Diet Hydrolyzed Protein.

Which dog food is recommended for breeds prone to skin allergies, such as Golden Retrievers?

Breeds prone to skin allergies, such as Golden Retrievers, may benefit from a dog food that is specifically formulated for skin health. Some examples of dog food brands that offer skin health formulas include Royal Canin, Hill’s Science Diet, and Purina Pro Plan. It is important to consult with your veterinarian to determine the best food for your dog’s individual needs.