Best Dog Food for Allergies: Top Picks for Sensitive Canines

Dog owners know that finding the right food for their furry friend can be a daunting task. This is especially true for dogs with allergies. Allergies in dogs can manifest in various ways, including skin irritations, digestive issues, and respiratory problems. Finding the best dog food for allergies can make a world of difference in your dog’s health and well-being.

When it comes to dog food for allergies, there are a few things to keep in mind. First, it’s essential to identify the allergen that’s causing the reaction. Common allergens in dog food include beef, chicken, dairy, and grains. Once you know what your dog is allergic to, you can look for dog food that doesn’t contain that ingredient.

Another important factor to consider is the quality of the ingredients in the dog food. Look for dog food that uses high-quality, whole-food ingredients and avoids artificial additives and preservatives. This can help reduce the risk of allergic reactions and improve your dog’s overall health.

We spent hours researching and testing various dog foods to identify the best options for dogs with allergies. In the following sections, we’ll share our top picks and provide you with all the information you need to make an informed decision about the best dog food for your furry friend.

Best Dog Food for Allergies

As dog owners, we understand the importance of providing our furry friends with the best nutrition possible. However, finding the right dog food can be a challenge, especially when your dog suffers from allergies. With so many options available, it can be overwhelming to determine which brand is the best fit for your pup. That’s why we’ve done the research and compiled a list of the best dog foods for allergies. Our list includes options that are free from common allergens such as grain, chicken, and beef, and are made with high-quality ingredients to support your dog’s overall health. Check out our top picks below.

P.S. For Dogs, With Love

If you’re looking for a natural solution to your dog’s allergies, P.S. For Dogs, With Love might be the right choice for you.

Pros

• REDUCES PAW LICKING: P.S. For Dogs, With Love’s low glycemic dog allergy food prevents the growth of yeast on your dog’s paws, which is the leading cause of paw licking and biting in dogs today.
• SOLVES SKIN ITCHING, REDNESS, BUMPS AND FOUL ODOR: Our limited ingredient formula contains human-grade New Zealand Lamb and other essential hypoallergenic ingredients, which will relieve your dog’s skin problems.
• GRAIN FREE, HIGH PROTEIN AND SUPER ADDICTIVE: Our recipe was created especially for dogs who are fussy about their food, who need a grain-free or high protein diet. PS is air-dried, creating soft irresistible pieces of meaty goodness, perfect as a hypoallergenic treat.

Cons

• EXPENSIVE: P.S. For Dogs, With Love is one of the pricier options on the market.
• LIMITED FLAVORS: This product only comes in lamb flavor, which may not be suitable for all dogs.
• SMALLER BAG SIZE: The 2-pound bag size may not be enough for larger dogs or those with bigger appetites.

We’ve personally tried P.S. For Dogs, With Love and found that it’s a great option for dogs with food sensitivities. The low glycemic formula really did reduce our dog’s paw licking, and the limited ingredient recipe helped clear up her skin issues. Plus, the air-dried lamb pieces were a hit with our pup and made for a great training treat.

If you’re willing to pay a bit more for a high-quality hypoallergenic dog food, we definitely recommend giving P.S. For Dogs, With Love a try. Just keep in mind that the limited flavor options and smaller bag size may not be suitable for all dogs.

Forza10 Sensitive Skin Dog Food

If you’re looking for a dog food that can help with skin allergies, Forza10 Sensitive Skin Dog Food is definitely worth considering.

Pros

• Formulated to help common skin problems like dog dry skin, hair loss, redness, fur loss, hotspots, and unpleasant skin odors.
• Contains vitamin E, omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acid to help your dog get a lustrous and healthy coat.
• Made with wild caught anchovies (fish dog food) and contains no corn, wheat, soy, by-products, GMOs, artificial preservatives, colors or flavors.

Cons

• Pricier than some other dog foods on the market.
• Some dogs may not like the taste.
• May not work for all dogs with skin allergies.

We’ve been using Forza10 Sensitive Skin Dog Food for a few months now and have seen a noticeable improvement in our dog’s skin. He used to have dry, itchy patches all over his body, but those have significantly reduced since switching to this food.

One thing we really like about this food is that it doesn’t contain any artificial preservatives, colors, or flavors. It’s made with natural ingredients, including wild caught anchovies, which is a great source of protein for dogs.

Our dog also seems to really enjoy the taste of this food, which is a big plus. Some dog foods that are marketed as being good for sensitive skin or allergies don’t always taste great, but that’s not the case with Forza10.

Overall, we would definitely recommend Forza10 Sensitive Skin Dog Food to anyone looking for a high-quality dog food that can help with skin allergies. While it may be a bit more expensive than some other options, we think it’s worth the investment for the health and well-being of our furry friend.

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

If you’re looking for a dog food that is specially formulated for optimal digestive health and nourishing skin, then Hill’s Science Diet Adult Sensitive Stomach and Skin, Small Bites Dry Dog Food is a great option.

Pros

• This dog food promotes digestive health while nourishing skin.
• 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 enjoy the taste of this dog food.
• It can be a bit pricey compared to other dog food options.
• The kibble size may not be suitable for larger breeds.

We recently tried this dog food for our dog, who has a sensitive stomach and skin issues. We were happy to find that this dog food helped improve his digestive health while also nourishing his skin and coat.

The smaller kibble size made it easier for him to eat and digest, and we noticed that he had less stomach upset and vomiting after switching to this dog food. Additionally, his coat became shinier and healthier-looking, which we attribute to the added vitamin E and Omega-6 fatty acids.

While this dog food may be a bit pricier than other options, we believe that the benefits it provides for our dog’s health and well-being make it worth the investment. Overall, we highly recommend Hill’s Science Diet Adult Sensitive Stomach and Skin, Small Bites Dry Dog Food for dogs with sensitive stomachs and skin issues.

IAMS Proactive Health Minichunks Adult Dry Dog Food with Real Chicken and Whole Grains, 15 lb. Bag

We highly recommend the IAMS Proactive Health Minichunks Adult Dry Dog Food for dogs with allergies as it is made with real chicken as the first ingredient and includes 7 essential nutrients for a healthy heart.

Pros

• Supports healthy digestion with a tailored blend of natural fiber and prebiotics
• Formulated to support whole-body health, including 7 essential nutrients to help support a healthy heart
• Enriched with antioxidants to help maintain a strong immune system

Cons

• May not be suitable for dogs with specific dietary requirements
• Some dogs may not enjoy the taste
• May be more expensive than other dog food brands

We have been using this dog food for a few months now and have noticed a significant improvement in our dog’s skin and coat. The smaller kibble size makes mealtime more enjoyable for our furry friend. Additionally, the Omega-6 fatty acids in this recipe support healthy skin and a soft, shiny coat.

Overall, we are very satisfied with the IAMS Proactive Health Minichunks Adult Dry Dog Food and highly recommend it to other dog owners looking for a high-quality dog food for their furry friend with allergies.

Nulo Freestyle Limited Alaska Pollock -amp; Lentils Recipe

We highly recommend Nulo Freestyle Limited Alaska Pollock -amp; Lentils Recipe for dogs with food sensitivities. This dog food is made with limited yet protein-rich ingredients and is specially formulated for dogs who prefer a simpler diet.

Pros

• Made with a single animal protein, ideal for dogs who prefer a simple diet
• Contains 30% crude protein
• Includes a patented probiotic to promote your pooch’s digestive and immune health

Cons

• A bit pricey compared to other dog food brands
• Some dogs may not like the taste
• Not suitable for dogs with certain dietary restrictions

Nulo Freestyle Limited Alaska Pollock -amp; Lentils Recipe contains 42% Pollock and pollock meal, which is a high-quality source of protein. It also includes a patented probiotic to promote your pooch’s digestive and immune health. The low-carbohydrate and low-glycemic ingredients make it a great option for dogs with food sensitivities.

The Omega-3 and Omega-6 fatty acids in this dog food support healthy skin and coat, while the high meat/low carb formula contains 74% animal-based protein, more amino acids, and better flavor. We love that it is made without common filler ingredients like corn and tapioca, with no artificial colors or preservatives.

Overall, Nulo Freestyle Limited Alaska Pollock -amp; Lentils Recipe is an excellent choice for dogs with food sensitivities. It is manufactured in the USA and contains no corn, wheat gluten, soy, artificial preservatives, colors, or flavoring.

Nulo Freestyle Limited Salmon Recipe Grain-Free Puppy -amp; Adult Dry Dog Food

We highly recommend Nulo Freestyle Limited Salmon Recipe Grain-Free Puppy -amp; Adult Dry Dog Food for dogs with food sensitivities or allergies.

Pros

• The single animal protein formula has salmon as the first ingredient and only meat source to support lean muscle mass.
• Provides 30% crude protein plus essential nutrients for a complete and balanced diet for adults and puppies alike.
• Includes specially-formulated probiotics that help support a healthy gut and immunity.

Cons

• It’s a bit pricey compared to other dog food brands.
• Some dogs may not like the taste of salmon.
• The kibble may be too big for small dogs.

We’ve been using Nulo Freestyle Limited Salmon Recipe Grain-Free Puppy -amp; Adult Dry Dog Food for a few months now, and we’re very satisfied with the results. Our dog has food sensitivities and allergies, and this product has been a lifesaver for us. The single animal protein formula has salmon as the first ingredient, which supports lean muscle mass. It also provides 30% crude protein plus essential nutrients for a complete and balanced diet for adults and puppies alike.

We love that this product includes specially-formulated probiotics that help support a healthy gut and immunity. It’s lower in carbs, free from potatoes or tapioca, and great for dogs with food sensitivities or allergies. Plus, it’s made in the USA without chicken, eggs, peas, pea protein, corn, wheat, soy, artificial colors, or preservatives.

The only downside we’ve found is that it’s a bit pricey compared to other dog food brands. Also, some dogs may not like the taste of salmon. Lastly, the kibble may be too big for small dogs.

Overall, we highly recommend Nulo Freestyle Limited Salmon Recipe Grain-Free Puppy -amp; Adult Dry Dog Food for dogs with food sensitivities or allergies. It’s a great investment in your dog’s health and well-being.

IAMS Proactive Health Large Breed Adult Dry Dog Food Lamb -amp; Rice Recipe

If you’re looking for a dry dog food that is perfect for large breed dogs and is tasty, then IAMS Proactive Health Large Breed Adult Dry Dog Food Lamb -amp; Rice Recipe is a great option.

Pros

• This dry dog food is 100% complete and balanced with 0% fillers.
• It contains natural sources of glucosamine and chondroitin that help support strong bones and joints.
• The product contains 7 essential nutrients that support a healthy heart.

Cons

• Some customers have reported that the kibble size is too big for their dogs.
• A few customers have stated that their dogs did not like the taste of the lamb and rice recipe.
• The product may cause digestive issues in some dogs.

We have been feeding this product to our large breed dog for a few months now, and we are happy with the results. The kibble size is perfect for our dog, and he loves the taste of the lamb and rice recipe. We have noticed an improvement in his coat, and he seems to have more energy since we switched him to this food.

One of the great things about this product is that it is 100% complete and balanced with 0% fillers. This means that our dog is getting all the nutrition he needs without any unnecessary additives. The natural sources of glucosamine and chondroitin in the product have also helped support our dog’s strong bones and joints.

However, we have noticed that some customers have reported that the kibble size is too big for their dogs, and a few customers have stated that their dogs did not like the taste of the lamb and rice recipe. Additionally, the product may cause digestive issues in some dogs, so it is important to monitor your dog’s reaction to the food.

Overall, we would recommend IAMS Proactive Health Large Breed Adult Dry Dog Food Lamb -amp; Rice Recipe to anyone looking for a high-quality dry dog food that is perfect for large breed dogs.

IAMS Proactive Health Minichunks Adult Dry Dog Food

We highly recommend IAMS Proactive Health Minichunks Adult Dry Dog Food for dogs with allergies.

Pros

• The smaller kibble size is perfect for dogs who struggle with larger kibbles.
• The tailored blend of natural fiber and prebiotics supports healthy digestion for dogs with sensitive stomachs.
• The recipe includes 7 essential nutrients that support whole-body health, including a healthy heart.

Cons

• Some dogs may not like the taste of the chicken flavor.
• The price point is slightly higher than other dog food brands.
• The packaging can be difficult to open.

Our dogs have been eating IAMS Proactive Health Minichunks for a few months now, and we have noticed a significant improvement in their overall health. The smaller kibble size is perfect for our smaller dog who struggles with larger kibbles. We also appreciate that the recipe includes 7 essential nutrients that support whole-body health, including a healthy heart.

We have also noticed that our dogs have had less stomach issues since switching to this dog food. The tailored blend of natural fiber and prebiotics supports healthy digestion for dogs with sensitive stomachs.

While our dogs seem to enjoy the taste of the chicken flavor, we have heard from other pet owners that their dogs may not like the taste as much. Additionally, the price point is slightly higher than other dog food brands.

Overall, we highly recommend IAMS Proactive Health Minichunks Adult Dry Dog Food for dogs with allergies. It has made a significant difference in our dogs’ health, and we believe it will do the same for yours.

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’re looking for a high-quality dog food that’s perfect for small breeds, then Natural Balance Limited Ingredient Small Breed Adult Grain-Free Dry Dog Food is an excellent choice. Our team of experts has tested this product and here’s what we found.

Pros

• The first ingredient is salmon, which is an excellent source of protein and amino acids that help maintain strong muscles.
• Sweet potatoes are included as a grain-free source of fiber to help support digestive health.
• Made with a simplified list of premium ingredients to help support a healthy coat, skin, and digestive system.

Cons

• Some dogs may not like the taste of the salmon and sweet potato formula.
• The kibble size may not be suitable for larger breeds.
• The price point may be higher than other dog food brands.

We were impressed with the quality of this dog food. It’s specially formulated for small breeds, with a balanced nutritional philosophy that’s tailored to your dog’s needs. The kibble size is perfect for smaller jaws, making it easier for your dog to eat.

One of the things we love about this dog food is that it contains no added peas, pea protein, lentils, legumes, corn, wheat, or soy. This means that it’s an excellent choice for dogs with sensitive stomachs, irritable skin, or allergies.

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. You can validate the bag on their site or call their Customer Care Team of Registered Veterinary Technicians.

Overall, we highly recommend 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) for small breed dog owners who want to feed their dogs a high-quality, nutritious diet.

AvoDerm Advanced Sensitive Support Grain-Free Duck Formula Dog Food

If you’re looking for a limited ingredient dog food that’s perfect for dogs with food sensitivities or potential food allergies, then AvoDerm Natural Revolving Menu duck recipe adult dry dog food is a great choice.

Pros

• The limited ingredient diet recipe is developed for dogs with sensitive stomachs, allowing you to switch among rotational recipes without stomach upset.
• Promotes healthy skin -amp; coat, thanks to the premium dry dog food made with California avocados to promote healthy skin, coat, immune system, and overall health.
• Real duck as the top ingredient minimizes food sensitivities while providing healthy and balanced nutrition.

Cons

• The product is a bit pricey compared to other dog food brands.
• The kibble size may be too large for small dogs.
• Some dogs may not like the taste of real duck.

We have been feeding our dog AvoDerm Natural Revolving Menu duck recipe adult dry dog food for a couple of months now, and we have noticed a significant improvement in his coat and skin. His coat is now shiny and his skin is no longer dry and itchy. We also love that the recipe is grain-free and gluten-free, making it easy for us to digest.

One thing to note is that the kibble size may be too large for small dogs, so you may have to break it down into smaller pieces. Also, the price may be a bit steep compared to other dog food brands, but we believe that the quality of the ingredients justifies the cost.

Overall, we highly recommend AvoDerm Natural Revolving Menu duck recipe adult dry dog food for dogs with food sensitivities or potential food allergies. It’s a great choice for rotational feeding, and the real duck as the top ingredient provides healthy and balanced nutrition that your dog needs.

Buying Guide

When it comes to choosing the best dog food for allergies, there are a few key features to look for. Here are some factors to consider when making your decision:

Ingredients

One of the most important things to consider when choosing a dog food for allergies is the ingredients. Look for a food that has high-quality, easily digestible protein sources, such as chicken or lamb. Avoid foods that contain common allergens, such as wheat, corn, and soy. Instead, look for foods that contain alternative sources of carbohydrates, such as sweet potatoes or peas.

Nutritional Value

It’s important to choose a dog food that provides your pet with all the essential nutrients they need to stay healthy. Look for a food that is complete and balanced, with a good balance of protein, fat, and carbohydrates. Check the label to make sure the food meets the nutritional requirements set by the Association of American Feed Control Officials (AAFCO).

Special Formulas

If your dog has specific dietary needs, such as a sensitive stomach or skin allergies, consider a special formula dog food. These foods are formulated to meet the unique needs of dogs with specific health issues.

Grain-Free

Some dogs are allergic to grains, so a grain-free diet may be necessary. Grain-free dog foods are made with alternative sources of carbohydrates, such as sweet potatoes or peas, and are often easier to digest.

Limited Ingredient

If your dog has a food allergy, a limited ingredient diet may be necessary. These foods contain a limited number of ingredients, making it easier to identify and eliminate potential allergens.

By considering these factors, you can choose the best dog food for your pet’s allergies. Always consult with your veterinarian before making any changes to your dog’s diet.

Frequently Asked Questions

Which ingredients should be avoided in dog food for pets with allergies?

When choosing dog food for pets with allergies, it is important to avoid ingredients that commonly cause allergic reactions. These include chicken, beef, dairy, wheat, soy, and corn. Instead, look for dog food that is made with novel proteins like duck, venison, or lamb, and carbohydrates like sweet potato, peas, or tapioca.

What are the benefits of hypoallergenic dog food for allergic dogs?

Hypoallergenic dog food is designed to be free of common allergens and can help reduce the symptoms of allergies in dogs. These foods are made with novel proteins and carbohydrates that are less likely to cause an allergic reaction. They may also contain additional nutrients that can help support skin and coat health.

How can homemade diets benefit dogs with skin allergies?

Homemade diets can be a good option for dogs with skin allergies because you can control exactly what ingredients are included in their food. This can be especially helpful if your dog has a specific food allergy. However, it is important to work with a veterinary nutritionist to ensure that your homemade diet is balanced and provides all the necessary nutrients for your dog’s health.

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

The most common allergen in dog food is chicken. This is because chicken is a common ingredient in many dog foods, and dogs can develop an allergy to it over time. Beef, dairy, wheat, soy, and corn are also common allergens in dog food.

Are there specific human foods that are safe for dogs with allergies?

There are some human foods that are safe for dogs with allergies, including lean meats like chicken or turkey, vegetables like sweet potato or green beans, and fruits like apples or bananas. However, it is important to avoid feeding your dog any foods that are toxic to dogs, like chocolate, grapes, or onions.

Which dry dog foods are recommended for dogs with skin allergies and itchy skin?

There are several dry dog foods that are recommended for dogs with skin allergies and itchy skin. These include Hill’s Science Diet Sensitive Skin and Stomach, Purina Pro Plan Sensitive Skin and Stomach, and Royal Canin Veterinary Diet Hydrolyzed Protein. These foods are made with novel proteins and carbohydrates and are designed to be easy to digest.