Best Dog Food for Dogs with Allergies: Top Picks and Buying Guide
Dogs are one of the most beloved pets around the world, and it’s no secret that they are often considered a part of the family. As such, it is essential to ensure that they are well taken care of, and one of the most critical aspects of their care is their diet. However, some dogs suffer from allergies that can make it challenging to find the right food for them. In this article, we will be discussing the best dog food for dogs with allergies.
When it comes to dog food, there are several options available in the market. However, not all of them are suitable for dogs with allergies. Some dogs may be allergic to certain ingredients, such as wheat, soy, or corn, commonly found in commercial dog food. As a result, it’s essential to find a dog food that is free from these ingredients while still providing your furry friend with all the nutrients they need.
The best dog food for dogs with allergies is hypoallergenic dog food. Hypoallergenic dog food is specially formulated to be free from common allergens, making it an ideal option for dogs with allergies. However, it’s essential to note that not all hypoallergenic dog food is created equal. Some may still contain ingredients that your dog is allergic to, so it’s crucial to read the label carefully before making a purchase.
When choosing the best dog food for dogs with allergies, it’s essential to pay attention to the ingredients. Look for dog food that contains high-quality protein sources, such as lamb, fish, or turkey, and avoid those that contain fillers or artificial preservatives. Additionally, consider the age, breed, and size of your dog when selecting the right dog food.
In this article, we will be reviewing and testing various hypoallergenic dog food brands to identify the ones that are the best for dogs with allergies. By the end of this article, you’ll have all the information you need to make an informed decision about the best dog food for your furry friend.
Best Dog Foods for Dogs with Allergies
As pet owners, we know how important it is to provide our furry friends with a balanced and nutritious diet. However, some dogs may suffer from allergies that can make it difficult to find the right food for them. That’s why we have researched and compiled a list of the best dog foods for dogs with allergies. Our selection includes options that are free from common allergens such as grains, soy, and dairy, and are made with high-quality ingredients to support your dog’s health and well-being. Whether your dog has a sensitive stomach or suffers from skin allergies, we have got you covered. Check out our top picks below.
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 and nourishes skin, Hill’s Science Diet Adult Sensitive Stomach and Skin, Small Bites Dry Dog Food is a great option.
Pros
- The prebiotic fiber in this dog food promotes a balanced microbiome and optimal digestive health.
- Vitamin E, omega-6 fatty acids, and other nutrients in the smaller kibble nourish skin and promote a healthy coat.
- This dog food is highly digestible for optimal nutrient absorption and easier stool pick-up.
Cons
- Some dogs may not like the taste of this dog food.
- The price point of this dog food may be higher than other options on the market.
- The bag size may not be suitable for larger dogs or those who eat more.
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 issues. Our dog loved the taste of the smaller kibble, and we noticed an improvement in his digestion and coat health after switching to this dog food.
One of the standout features of this dog food is the prebiotic fiber that promotes a balanced microbiome and optimal digestive health. We also appreciated the added vitamin E, omega-6 fatty acids, and other nutrients that nourished our dog’s skin and coat.
The only potential downsides we found were that some dogs may not like the taste of the dog food and that the price point may be higher than other options on the market. Additionally, the bag size may not be suitable for larger dogs or those who eat more.
Overall, we would highly recommend Hill’s Science Diet Adult Sensitive Stomach and Skin, Small Bites Dry Dog Food for dogs with sensitive stomachs and skin issues.
PS for Dogs, With Love
If you’re looking for a high-quality dog food that can help relieve your dog’s allergies, PS for Dogs, With Love is a great option.
Pros
- Prevents paw licking and biting
- Relieves skin problems
- Grain-free and high in protein
Cons
- Expensive
- May not be suitable for all dogs
- Air-dried texture may not appeal to all dogs
We’ve been using PS for Dogs, With Love for several months now and have seen a noticeable improvement in our dog’s allergies. The low glycemic formula has helped reduce paw licking and biting, and the limited ingredient formula has relieved her skin problems.
One of the things we love about this dog food is that it’s grain-free and high in protein, making it a great option for dogs who need a hypoallergenic diet. The air-dried texture also makes it a great treat option for dogs who are fussy about their food.
However, it’s important to note that PS for Dogs, With Love is expensive compared to other dog food options. Additionally, it may not be suitable for all dogs, so it’s important to consult with your veterinarian before making any dietary changes. Some dogs may also not enjoy the air-dried texture of the food.
Overall, if you’re looking for a high-quality dog food that can help relieve your dog’s allergies, PS for Dogs, With Love is definitely worth considering.
Blue Buffalo True Solutions Perfect Skin -amp; Coat Natural Adult Dry Dog Food, Salmon, 11-lb
If you are looking for a dog food to help your pup with skin allergies, Blue Buffalo True Solutions Perfect Skin -amp; Coat Natural Adult Dry Dog Food is a great option. With high-quality salmon as the first ingredient, this dry dog food is formulated with wholesome ingredients, including fruits and vegetables, to help care for your dog’s sensitive skin naturally.
Pros
- Made with omega 3 -amp; 6 fatty acids clinically proven to support healthy skin and shiny coat.
- Natural ingredients recommended by veterinarians, enhanced with vitamins, minerals, and other nutrients and includes antioxidant-rich LifeSource Bits.
- 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 foods.
- Some dogs may not like the taste.
- Not all dogs may experience significant improvements with their skin allergies.
Blue Buffalo True Solutions Perfect Skin -amp; Coat Natural Adult Dry Dog Food is a great option for dogs with sensitive skin and allergies. Our dog has been eating this dog food for a few months now, and we have noticed significant improvements in his skin and coat. He used to have dry and itchy skin, but after switching to Blue Buffalo True Solutions, his skin has become much healthier and shinier.
The dog food is made with natural ingredients recommended by veterinarians, and it does not contain any chicken (or poultry) by-product meals, corn, wheat, soy, artificial flavors, or preservatives. Instead, it is enhanced with vitamins, minerals, and other nutrients, including antioxidant-rich LifeSource Bits, to provide your dog with a complete and balanced diet.
One of the best things about this dog food is that it is made with omega 3 -amp; 6 fatty acids, which are clinically proven to support healthy skin and a shiny coat. Our dog’s coat has become much shinier and softer since we started feeding him Blue Buffalo True Solutions.
Overall, if you are looking for a high-quality dog food to help your pup with skin allergies, we highly recommend Blue Buffalo True Solutions Perfect Skin -amp; Coat Natural Adult Dry Dog Food.
Purina Pro Plan Gravy Wet Dog Food for Large Dogs, Large Breed Beef and Rice Entree – (Pack of 12) 13 oz. Cans Beef -amp; Rice 13 Ounce (Pack of 12)
If you’re looking for a high-quality dog food that’s specifically designed for large breed dogs with allergies, Purina Pro Plan SPECIALIZED Large Breed Beef and Rice Entree Chunks in Gravy adult wet dog food is definitely worth considering.
Pros
- Made with real beef for a taste dogs love
- Contains calcium and phosphorus for strong bones and teeth
- Helps support a healthy immune system and nourishes your dog’s skin and coat
Cons
- Some dogs may not like the texture of the chunks in gravy
- May not be suitable for dogs with certain dietary restrictions
- Some users have reported issues with damaged cans during shipping
We recently tried this dog food on our large breed dog who has allergies, and we were very pleased with the results. Our dog loved the taste of the real beef and had no digestive issues after eating it. We also noticed that his coat looked shinier and healthier after just a few weeks on this food.
One thing to keep in mind is that some dogs may not like the texture of the chunks in gravy, so it’s important to introduce this food gradually and monitor your dog’s reaction. Additionally, if your dog has certain dietary restrictions, this food may not be suitable for them.
Overall, we highly recommend Purina Pro Plan SPECIALIZED Large Breed Beef and Rice Entree Chunks in Gravy adult wet dog food for large breed dogs with allergies. It’s a high-quality, nutritious food that’s specifically designed to meet the needs of large breed dogs, and it’s sure to be a hit with your furry friend.
Real Mesa Soft -amp; Chewy Lamb Recipe Dog Treats
If you’re looking for a tasty and nutritious treat for your furry friend, Real Mesa Soft -amp; Chewy Lamb Recipe Dog Treats is a great option.
Pros
- Made with high-quality lamb as the first ingredient
- Soft and chewy texture that’s gentle on your dog’s teeth and gums
- Comes in a convenient 4 oz package for on-the-go use
Cons
- Some users reported the treats being too hard for their dogs
- A few customers found the price to be a bit high compared to other similar products
- Not suitable for dogs with lamb allergies
We recently tried these treats with our own dogs and were impressed with the quality and taste. The lamb flavor was a hit with our pups, and the soft and chewy texture made it easy for them to enjoy. We also appreciate that the treats are gentle on their teeth and gums, which is important for dogs with dental issues or sensitive mouths.
The convenient 4 oz package is perfect for taking on walks or trips, and we found it easy to store in our dog walking bag. The variety of flavors and textures available in the Real Mesa line of dog treats is also a plus, and we look forward to trying more in the future.
While we didn’t experience any issues with the treats being too hard, we did come across a few reviews from other customers who had this problem. Additionally, some customers found the price to be a bit high compared to other similar products on the market. Finally, it’s important to note that these treats are not suitable for dogs with lamb allergies.
Overall, we would recommend Real Mesa Soft -amp; Chewy Lamb Recipe Dog Treats to any dog owner looking for a tasty and nutritious treat for their furry friend.
Purina Pro Plan Sport High Protein Puppy Food Chicken and Rice Wet Formula
If you’re looking for a high-quality canned puppy food that supports brain and vision development, lean muscle growth, and overall wellness, Purina Pro Plan Sport High Protein Puppy Food Chicken and Rice Wet Formula is a solid choice.
Pros
- Real chicken is the number 1 ingredient, providing high-quality protein for growing puppies.
- Brain-nourishing nutrients, including DHA, promote healthy brain and vision development.
- Contains 23 essential vitamins and minerals and antioxidants to support a healthy immune system.
Cons
- Some customers have reported that the formula is a bit watery and can be messy to serve.
- The price point may be higher than some other canned puppy foods on the market.
- Some customers have reported that the formula may cause loose stools in some puppies.
We’ve been using Purina Pro Plan Sport High Protein Puppy Food Chicken and Rice Wet Formula for our growing puppy and have been pleased with the results. The formula is easy to serve, with a convenient pull-tab lid and a soft, ground texture that our puppy seems to enjoy.
One of the things we appreciate about this formula is that it contains real chicken as the number 1 ingredient. This provides high-quality protein for our growing puppy and helps to support lean muscle growth.
Another great feature of this formula is that it contains brain-nourishing nutrients, including DHA. These nutrients help to support healthy brain and vision development, which is especially important for growing puppies.
We also appreciate that this formula contains 23 essential vitamins and minerals, as well as antioxidants to support a healthy immune system. This gives us peace of mind that our puppy is getting all the nutrients she needs to grow and thrive.
While some customers have reported that the formula can be a bit watery and messy to serve, we haven’t had any issues with this. However, we have noticed that the price point may be higher than some other canned puppy foods on the market.
Additionally, some customers have reported that the formula may cause loose stools in some puppies. While we haven’t experienced this issue ourselves, it’s important to keep in mind if your puppy has a sensitive stomach.
Overall, we would recommend Purina Pro Plan Sport High Protein Puppy Food Chicken and Rice Wet Formula to other puppy owners looking for a high-quality canned puppy food that supports overall wellness and growth.
Purina Pro Plan Sensitive Skin and Stomach Wet Dog Food Pate Salmon and Rice Entree – (Pack of 12) 13 Oz. Cans Salmon 13 Ounce (Pack of 12)
We highly recommend the Purina Pro Plan Sensitive Skin and Stomach Wet Dog Food Pate Salmon and Rice Entree for dogs with allergies, as it provides a complete and balanced meal that is gentle on their digestive system and nourishes specific intestinal bacteria for digestive health.
Pros
- Made with real salmon for a taste dogs love, and easily digestible rice, which is gentle on the stomach and digestive system
- Contains natural prebiotic fiber that nourishes specific intestinal bacteria for digestive health
- Includes linoleic acid, an omega fatty acid, for healthy skin and coat, and contains no artificial colors, flavors or preservatives
Cons
- Some dogs may not like the texture of the pate
- May cause gas in some dogs
- Slightly more expensive than other wet dog foods
Our experience with the Purina Pro Plan Sensitive Skin and Stomach Wet Dog Food Pate Salmon and Rice Entree has been very positive. The texture of the pate is smooth and easy to mix with dry kibble, and the smell is not overpowering. Our dog, who has a sensitive stomach, has had no issues with this food and seems to really enjoy the taste.
One of the standout features of this dog food is the natural prebiotic fiber that nourishes specific intestinal bacteria for digestive health. We have noticed a significant improvement in our dog’s digestion since switching to this food. Additionally, the inclusion of linoleic acid has helped to maintain our dog’s healthy skin and coat.
However, some dogs may not like the texture of the pate, and it may cause gas in some dogs. Additionally, the price is slightly higher than other wet dog foods on the market. Overall, we believe that the benefits of this dog food outweigh the potential drawbacks, and we highly recommend it for dogs with allergies.
Purina Pro Plan Sensitive Skin and Stomach Wet Dog Food Pate Lamb and Oat Meal Entree
If you’re looking for a high-quality dog food that’s gentle on your pet’s stomach, Purina Pro Plan Sensitive Skin and Stomach Wet Dog Food Pate Lamb and Oat Meal Entree is an excellent choice.
Pros
- Made with real lamb for a taste dogs love
- Gentle on the stomach and digestive system
- Contains natural prebiotic fiber to nourish specific intestinal bacteria for digestive health
Cons
- Some dogs may not like the taste
- More expensive than some other brands
- Contains carrageenan, which some pet owners prefer to avoid
We recently tried this dog food for our pet, who has a sensitive stomach and tends to be picky about his food. We were pleased to find that he loved the taste of the lamb and oatmeal pate, and had no trouble digesting it. The natural prebiotic fiber in the food also seemed to help his digestive system, and we noticed an improvement in his overall health and wellbeing after switching to this food.
One thing to note is that this dog food is more expensive than some other brands, but we feel that the quality and nutritional value of the food make it worth the investment. It’s also important to mention that some pet owners prefer to avoid carrageenan, which is included in this dog food as a thickener.
Overall, we highly recommend Purina Pro Plan Sensitive Skin and Stomach Wet Dog Food Pate Lamb and Oat Meal Entree for any pet with sensitive digestion or skin issues. It’s a high-quality, nutritious food that’s sure to keep your furry friend healthy and happy.
Lucy Pet Formulas for Life Salmon, Pumpkin, -amp; Quinoa Dry Dog Food
If you’re looking for dog food that’s designed to help with gut health, digestive health, and sensitive stomachs, Lucy Pet Formulas for Life Salmon, Pumpkin, -amp; Quinoa Dry Dog Food might be the right choice for you.
Pros
- The grain-free formula is ideal for dogs with food sensitivities.
- With wild-caught deboned Alaskan salmon as the first ingredient, this dog food is rich in Omega 3 fatty acids that promote healthy skin and coat.
- The kibble is designed to provide all the essential nutrients required for dogs of all sizes and life stages.
Cons
- Some dogs might not like the taste of salmon, pumpkin, and quinoa.
- The kibble is relatively large, which might be an issue for small dogs.
- This dog food is slightly more expensive than some other options on the market.
We recently tried out Lucy Pet Formulas for Life Salmon, Pumpkin, -amp; Quinoa Dry Dog Food with our dog who has a sensitive stomach. We were impressed with the quality of the ingredients, and our dog seemed to enjoy the taste of the kibble.
One thing we appreciated about this dog food is that it’s designed to be suitable for all breeds and life stages. Whether you have a puppy, an adult dog, or a senior dog, you can feel confident that they’re getting all the nutrients they need.
The grain-free formula is also a significant advantage for dogs with food sensitivities. We noticed a significant improvement in our dog’s digestion and overall health after switching to this dog food.
One downside to keep in mind is that the kibble is relatively large, which might be an issue for small dogs. Additionally, some dogs might not like the taste of salmon, pumpkin, and quinoa.
Overall, we would recommend Lucy Pet Formulas for Life Salmon, Pumpkin, -amp; Quinoa Dry Dog Food to anyone looking for a high-quality dog food that’s designed to promote gut health, digestive health, and sensitive stomachs.
AvoDerm Advanced Sensitive Support Grain-Free Duck Formula Dog Food
We highly recommend AvoDerm Advanced Sensitive Support Grain-Free Duck Formula Dog Food for dogs with allergies. This limited ingredient diet recipe was developed especially for dogs with sensitive stomachs, making it an excellent choice for dogs with food sensitivities or potential food allergies.
Pros
- Real duck as the top ingredient provides a healthy and balanced source of protein.
- Grain-free and gluten-free recipe that is free from meat-by-products, artificial flavors, colors, or preservatives.
- Promotes healthy skin and coat with the addition of California avocados, which are nutrient-dense superfoods.
Cons
- Some dogs may not like the taste of the duck recipe.
- The kibble size may not be suitable for smaller dogs.
- The price point may be higher than other dog food brands.
AvoDerm Advanced Sensitive Support Grain-Free Duck Formula Dog Food is a great choice for dogs with allergies. The limited ingredient diet recipe allows you to switch among rotational recipes without stomach upset, making it simple to know you’re feeding your dog all-natural premium ingredients.
The addition of California avocados promotes healthy skin, coat, immune system, and overall health. The real duck as the top ingredient ensures each serving is filled with the ideal proteins to keep your dog healthy and active.
While some dogs may not like the taste of the duck recipe and the kibble size may not be suitable for smaller dogs, the overall benefits of this dog food outweigh the cons. The price point may be higher than other dog food brands, but the quality of ingredients and the benefits for dogs with allergies make it worth the investment.
Buying Guide
When it comes to finding the best dog food for dogs with allergies, there are several factors to consider. Here are some important features to look for when choosing a product:
Ingredients
The first thing to check is the list of ingredients. Look for a product that is made with high-quality, easily digestible proteins such as chicken, turkey, or fish. Avoid products that contain fillers, artificial flavors, and preservatives. It’s also important to avoid common allergens such as wheat, corn, and soy.
Nutritional Value
Make sure the product you choose provides a balanced and complete diet for your dog. Look for a product that meets the nutritional requirements set by the Association of American Feed Control Officials (AAFCO). This will ensure that your dog is getting all the essential nutrients they need.
Limited Ingredient Diets
If your dog has a severe allergy, you may want to consider a limited ingredient diet. These products are made with a smaller number of ingredients, making it easier to pinpoint the allergen. Look for a product that contains a single source of protein and a limited number of carbohydrates.
Grain-Free
Many dogs with allergies are also sensitive to grains. If this is the case for your dog, consider a grain-free product. These products are made without grains such as wheat, corn, and soy, and instead use alternative sources of carbohydrates such as sweet potatoes or peas.
Hypoallergenic
Some products are specifically designed for dogs with allergies. These hypoallergenic products are made with novel proteins such as venison or duck, which are less likely to cause an allergic reaction.
By considering these factors, you can choose a product that will provide your dog with a nutritious and allergy-free diet.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the most effective hypoallergenic dog food brands?
There are several hypoallergenic dog food brands available in the market that can help alleviate symptoms of allergies in dogs. Some of the most effective brands include Royal Canin, Hill’s Science Diet, Blue Buffalo, and Purina Pro Plan. These brands offer a range of formulas that are free from common allergens such as wheat, soy, and dairy.
How can homemade diets alleviate symptoms of canine allergies?
Homemade diets can be an effective way to alleviate symptoms of canine allergies. By eliminating common allergens from the dog’s diet, such as wheat, soy, and dairy, owners can help reduce the frequency and severity of allergic reactions. Homemade diets should be formulated under the guidance of a veterinarian to ensure that they meet the dog’s nutritional needs.
Which dog foods are recommended by veterinarians for allergic reactions?
Veterinarians may recommend a variety of dog food brands and formulas for dogs with allergies, depending on the dog’s specific needs. Some of the most commonly recommended brands include Royal Canin, Hill’s Science Diet, Blue Buffalo, and Purina Pro Plan. These brands offer a range of hypoallergenic formulas that are free from common allergens.
What human foods are safe and beneficial for dogs with allergies?
While it is important to consult with a veterinarian before introducing any new foods into a dog’s diet, some human foods can be safe and beneficial for dogs with allergies. These include lean meats such as chicken and turkey, fruits and vegetables such as sweet potatoes and green beans, and certain grains such as quinoa and brown rice.
What ingredients should be avoided in dog foods for pets with allergies?
Common allergens that should be avoided in dog foods for pets with allergies include wheat, soy, dairy, and corn. Other ingredients that may trigger allergic reactions in some dogs include beef, chicken, and eggs. It is important to read the ingredient labels carefully and avoid any foods that contain known allergens.
Is there a difference in allergy control between dry and wet dog food?
There is no definitive answer to whether dry or wet dog food is better for allergy control. Some dogs may do better on a dry food diet, while others may benefit from wet food. It is important to consult with a veterinarian to determine the best diet for your dog’s specific needs.