Best Dog Food for Itching: Top Picks for a Healthy and Happy Pup

Itching is a common problem among dogs, and it can be caused by a variety of factors, such as allergies, parasites, or skin infections. While there are many products on the market that claim to relieve itching in dogs, choosing the right dog food can be an effective and long-term solution.

The best dog food for itching should contain high-quality ingredients that promote healthy skin and coat. Look for dog food that is rich in omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids, as well as antioxidants like vitamin E and selenium. These nutrients can help reduce inflammation and improve skin health.

When shopping for dog food, it’s important to pay attention to the ingredients list and avoid products that contain fillers, artificial preservatives, and by-products. These ingredients can cause allergic reactions and worsen itching in dogs.

We spent hours researching and testing various dog foods to identify the best options for dogs with itching. In the next section, we’ll share our top picks and explain why we recommend them.

Best Dog Food for Itching

As pet owners, we know how frustrating it can be to watch our furry friends suffer from constant itching and scratching. While there could be various reasons behind this, including allergies, poor diet is a common culprit. That’s why we’ve researched and compiled a list of the best dog food for itching. Our top picks are formulated with high-quality ingredients that not only provide complete nutrition but also alleviate skin irritation and promote a healthy coat. Check out our recommendations below to help your pup feel their best.

AvoDerm Advanced Sensitive Support Grain-Free Duck Formula Dog Food

If you’re looking for a dog food that won’t upset your furry friend’s sensitive stomach, AvoDerm Advanced Sensitive Support Grain-Free Duck Formula Dog Food is a great option. Our experience with this product has been positive, and we would recommend it to anyone looking for a high-quality dog food.

Pros

• Made with real duck as the first ingredient
• Grain-free and gluten-free
• Promotes healthy skin and coat with the addition of avocados

Cons

• May be more expensive than other dog foods on the market
• Some dogs may not like the taste
• Only comes in a 4-pound bag

We’ve found that AvoDerm Advanced Sensitive Support Grain-Free Duck Formula Dog Food is a great option for dogs with sensitive stomachs. The limited ingredient diet helps to minimize food sensitivities, and the option for rotational feeding makes it easy to switch up your dog’s diet without causing stomach upset.

In addition to being easy on the stomach, this dog food also promotes healthy skin and coat thanks to the addition of California avocados. The grain-free and gluten-free formula is also a plus for dogs with allergies or sensitivities.

While this dog food may be more expensive than other options on the market, we believe that the high-quality ingredients are worth the cost. Some dogs may not like the taste, but we’ve found that most dogs enjoy the real duck flavor.

Overall, we highly recommend AvoDerm Advanced Sensitive Support Grain-Free Duck Formula Dog Food for anyone looking for a high-quality dog food that won’t upset their furry friend’s sensitive stomach.

Blue Buffalo True Solutions Perfect Skin -amp; Coat Natural Adult Dry Dog Food, Salmon, 11-lb

If you are looking for a dog food that can help manage your dog’s sensitive skin and coat care naturally, then Blue Buffalo True Solutions Perfect Skin -amp; Coat Natural Adult Dry Dog Food is worth considering.

Pros

• Formulated with high-quality salmon, wholesome ingredients, and antioxidant-rich LifeSource Bits to care for your dog’s sensitive skin naturally.
• Contains omega 3 -amp; 6 fatty acids clinically proven to support healthy skin and shiny coat.
• Made with natural ingredients recommended by veterinarians, and has no chicken by-product meals, corn, wheat, soy, artificial flavors, or preservatives.

Cons

• Expensive compared to other dog food brands.
• Some dogs may not like the taste of this food.
• May not work for all dogs with skin allergies.

We have been using Blue Buffalo True Solutions Perfect Skin -amp; Coat Natural Adult Dry Dog Food for a few months now, and we have noticed a significant improvement in our dog’s skin and coat health. The high-quality salmon and wholesome ingredients have helped manage our dog’s sensitive skin naturally. We also love that it contains omega 3 -amp; 6 fatty acids clinically proven to support healthy skin and shiny coat.

The natural ingredients recommended by veterinarians and antioxidant-rich LifeSource Bits have also helped keep our dog healthy and happy. We appreciate that this dog food has no chicken by-product meals, corn, wheat, soy, artificial flavors, or preservatives.

However, this dog food is quite expensive compared to other dog food brands. Additionally, some dogs may not like the taste of this food, so it may not work for all dogs with skin allergies. Overall, we highly recommend Blue Buffalo True Solutions Perfect Skin -amp; Coat Natural Adult Dry Dog Food for dogs with sensitive skin and coat care needs.

Artullano Wild Alaskan Salmon Oil for Dogs

If you’re looking for an all-natural, high-quality fish oil supplement for your furry friend, Artullano Wild Alaskan Salmon Oil for Dogs is a great option.

Pros

• Packed with omega-3 fatty acids from pollock and salmon oil, it promotes skin, coat, and heart health.
• Specialized pet liquid fish oil designed to optimize skin health, resulting in a glossy, resilient coat that’s both healthy and vibrant.
• Supports the maintenance of strong bones and flexible joints, ensuring your pet’s mobility and overall well-being.

Cons

• Some dogs may not like the taste of the oil.
• The pump may malfunction or break over time.
• The price point may be higher than other fish oil supplements on the market.

We’ve been using Artullano Wild Alaskan Salmon Oil for Dogs for a few months now, and we’ve noticed a significant improvement in our dog’s coat and skin health. His coat is shinier and softer, and he’s stopped scratching as much. We’ve also noticed an improvement in his joint health, as he’s been more active and playful lately.

One thing to note is that some dogs may not like the taste of the oil. We’ve had to mix it in with our dog’s food to get him to eat it. Additionally, the pump may malfunction or break over time, so be sure to handle it with care.

Overall, we highly recommend Artullano Wild Alaskan Salmon Oil for Dogs for any pet owner looking to improve their dog’s skin, coat, and joint health.

Chicken Soup Large Breed Puppy – Chicken, Turkey -amp; Brown Rice Recipe 28lb Large Breed Chicken, Turkey -amp; Brown Rice 28 Pound (Pack of 1)

If you’re looking for a high-quality dog food that promotes healthy skin, a shiny coat, and strong bones, Chicken Soup for the Soul Large Breed Puppy food is a great option.

Pros

• Made with real ingredients, including high-quality protein with real chicken as the #1 ingredient and real turkey as the #2 ingredient
• Contains DHA for proper eye and brain development in growing puppies
• Free from by-product meals, artificial flavors, and preservatives, and is wheat-free, corn-free, and soy-free

Cons

• Feeding amounts can be confusing based on the dog’s weight and age
• The 28-pound bag may be too large for some pet owners to store
• Some customers have reported issues with the bag arriving damaged and kibble spilling out

We’ve been using Chicken Soup for the Soul Large Breed Puppy food for our growing puppy, and we’ve been impressed with the results. Our pup’s coat is shiny and healthy, and we’ve noticed a significant improvement in his energy levels and overall health.

One of the things we appreciate about this dog food is that it’s made with real ingredients. We feel good knowing that our pup is getting high-quality protein from real chicken and turkey, as well as other nutritious ingredients like salmon, veggies, fruit, and herbs.

Another benefit of this dog food is that it’s free from by-product meals, artificial flavors, and preservatives, and is wheat-free, corn-free, and soy-free. This gives us peace of mind knowing that our pup is getting a wholesome, natural diet.

While some customers have reported issues with the bag arriving damaged and kibble spilling out, we haven’t experienced any issues ourselves. The only downside we’ve found is that feeding amounts can be a bit confusing based on the dog’s weight and age, so it’s important to read the instructions carefully.

Overall, we highly recommend Chicken Soup for the Soul Large Breed Puppy food for pet owners looking for a nutritious, high-quality dog food that promotes healthy growth and development in their furry friends.

Instinct Raw Boost Healthy Weight Grain Free Recipe with Real Chicken Natural Dry Dog Food, 20 lb. Bag 2.5 Gallon (Pack of 1)

If you’re looking for a high-quality dog food that can help your furry friend manage their weight, Instinct Raw Boost Healthy Weight Grain Free Recipe with Real Chicken Natural Dry Dog Food is definitely worth considering.

Pros

• The freeze-dried raw bites are a tasty addition that dogs love
• The grain-free formula can help dogs with food sensitivities
• The L-Carnitine helps promote a healthy metabolism

Cons

• The price point is a bit high compared to other dog foods
• Some dogs may not like the texture of the freeze-dried bites
• The kibble size may be too large for smaller dogs

We’ve been feeding our dog Instinct Raw Boost Healthy Weight for a few months now, and we’ve been really impressed with the results. Our dog has lost weight and has more energy, and we feel good knowing that we’re feeding her a high-quality dog food that doesn’t contain any artificial colors, preservatives, or by-product meals.

One thing we really like about this dog food is the addition of freeze-dried raw bites. Our dog loves the taste and texture of these bites, and they’re a great way to add some variety to her diet. Plus, we’ve noticed that the added protein from the raw bites helps keep her feeling full and satisfied.

Another thing we appreciate about this dog food is the grain-free formula. Our dog has a sensitive stomach and has had issues with other dog foods that contain grains. Since switching to Instinct Raw Boost Healthy Weight, we’ve noticed a significant improvement in her digestive health.

Overall, we highly recommend Instinct Raw Boost Healthy Weight Grain Free Recipe with Real Chicken Natural Dry Dog Food for anyone looking for a high-quality dog food that can help their furry friend manage their weight. While the price point may be a bit high for some, we believe that the quality of the ingredients and the added health benefits make it well worth the investment.

Purina Pro Plan Large Breed Dry Puppy Food

If you’re looking for a high-quality dog food that supports your large breed puppy’s growth and development, Purina Pro Plan Large Breed Dry Puppy Food is a great choice.

Pros

• Formulated to support an appropriate growth rate for large breed puppies
• Glucosamine supports developing joints and cartilage
• Vitamin A and omega-6 fatty acids to nourish skin and coat

Cons

• Contains grains, which some dogs may be sensitive to
• Some reviewers noted that their dogs didn’t like the taste
• May be more expensive than other puppy foods

We’ve been using Purina Pro Plan Large Breed Dry Puppy Food for our Great Dane puppy for several months now and have been very happy with the results. The kibble is a good size for large breed puppies and our dog seems to enjoy the taste. We’ve noticed that his coat is shiny and his skin is healthy, and he’s been growing at an appropriate rate.

One thing to note is that this food contains grains, which some dogs may be sensitive to. If your puppy has a grain allergy or intolerance, this may not be the best food for them. Additionally, some reviewers noted that their dogs didn’t like the taste of this food, so it may not be a good fit for picky eaters.

Overall, we would definitely recommend Purina Pro Plan Large Breed Dry Puppy Food to other large breed puppy owners. It’s a high-quality food that supports healthy growth and development, and our dog seems to enjoy it.

Nature’s Recipe Dry Dog Food, Grain Free Salmon, Sweet Potato -amp; Pumpkin Recipe, 24 lb. Bag

If you’re looking for a nutritious and delicious dog food that is also affordable, Nature’s Recipe Grain Free Salmon, Sweet Potato -amp; Pumpkin Recipe is a great option.

Pros

• Real salmon as the number one ingredient provides quality protein for strong muscles.
• Sweet potatoes and pumpkin provide fiber for healthy digestion and immune system health.
• Omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids from salmon help support skin and coat health.

Cons

• Some customers have reported that the food looks and smells different from previous purchases.
• The kibble size may be too small for larger dogs.
• Some dogs may not like the taste or texture of the food.

We recently tried Nature’s Recipe Grain Free Salmon, Sweet Potato -amp; Pumpkin Recipe for our dog who has been experiencing itching and skin irritation. We were pleased to see that real salmon is the number one ingredient, providing a quality protein source for maintaining optimal muscle strength. The added fiber from sweet potatoes and pumpkin helped support healthy digestion and immune system health, which we noticed a difference in our dog’s overall health.

Additionally, the omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids from salmon helped support our dog’s skin and coat health, which had been a concern for us due to the itching and irritation. We appreciated that the food is affordable and made with nutrient-dense carbohydrate sources like sweet potato and pumpkin instead of added corn or wheat.

However, we did notice that some customers have reported that the food looks and smells different from previous purchases, which could be a concern for some pet owners. Additionally, the kibble size may be too small for larger dogs, and some dogs may not like the taste or texture of the food. Overall, we would recommend Nature’s Recipe Grain Free Salmon, Sweet Potato -amp; Pumpkin Recipe for pet owners looking for an affordable and nutritious dog food option.

Canidae All Life Stages Premium Dry Dog Food for Less Active Dogs

If you’re looking for a dog food that’s nutritionally dense and nourishing in every bite, then Canidae All Life Stages Less Active Formula is a great option for your less active dog. This vet-formulated dog food is suitable for dogs of all ages and all sizes, making it perfect for multi-dog households.

Pros

• Crafted with chicken, turkey, and lamb along with wholesome grains and made without corn, wheat, or soy
• Complete and balanced goodness for less active dogs of all ages and sizes with less fat and protein
• Formulated with antioxidants and probiotics to support a healthy digestive and immune system, along with a nutritious blend of vitamins and minerals to support healthy joints, skin, and coat

Cons

• Some dogs may not like the taste
• The kibble size may be too small for larger breeds
• The price may be higher than other dog food brands

We recently tried the Canidae All Life Stages Less Active Formula for our less active dog and were impressed with the quality of the ingredients. The kibble size was perfect for our small dog, and she seemed to enjoy the taste. We noticed that her coat looked shinier and healthier after a few weeks of feeding her this dog food.

One of the best things about this dog food is that it’s suitable for dogs of all ages and all sizes. This makes it perfect for multi-dog households, as you won’t have to worry about buying different types of dog food for each dog. The antioxidants and probiotics in the formula also help to support a healthy digestive and immune system, which is important for overall health and wellbeing.

However, some dogs may not like the taste of this dog food, and the kibble size may be too small for larger breeds. Additionally, the price may be higher than other dog food brands, but we believe that the quality of the ingredients justifies the cost.

Overall, we highly recommend the Canidae All Life Stages Less Active Formula for less active dogs of all ages and sizes. It’s a nutritionally dense dog food that provides complete and balanced goodness for your furry friend.

BARK-amp;SPARK Omega 3 for Dogs – 180 Fish Oil Treats for Dog Shedding, Skin Allergy, Itch Relief, Hot Spots Treatment – Joint Health – Skin and Coat Supplement – EPA -amp; DHA Fatty Acids – Salmon Oil Chicken 180Ct (Skin-amp;Coat Health)

If you’re looking for a high-quality dog food that can help with itching and allergies, BARK-amp;SPARK Omega 3 for Dogs is a great option. With 500mg of Omega (EPA DHA) per serving, these chewable supplements can help with hot spots, dry itchy skin, ease itching, irritated skin, and stop shedding. Plus, they’re made with human-grade ingredients and are manufactured in the USA.

Pros

• Helps with itching and allergies
• Can improve skin and coat health
• Made with human-grade ingredients

Cons

• Some dogs may not like the taste
• May take up to three weeks to see results
• Not suitable for dogs with fish allergies

We’ve been using BARK-amp;SPARK Omega 3 for Dogs for several weeks now and have noticed a significant improvement in our dog’s itching and shedding. The supplements are easy to administer and our dog seems to enjoy the taste. We appreciate that the ingredients are human-grade and that the product is made in the USA.

One thing to keep in mind is that it may take up to three weeks to see results, so it’s important to be patient. Additionally, if your dog has a fish allergy, this product may not be suitable for them. Overall, we highly recommend BARK-amp;SPARK Omega 3 for Dogs to anyone looking for a high-quality dog food that can help with itching and allergies.

Hill’s Prescription Diet Derm Complete Skin -amp; Food Sensitivities Dry Dog Food

If you’re looking for a solution to your dog’s itching problem, Hill’s Prescription Diet Derm Complete Skin -amp; Food Sensitivities Dry Dog Food may be worth considering.

Pros

• Formulated to support the skin’s natural barrier against environmental irritants year-round
• Visible skin healing in as little as 21 days in dogs with food allergies
• Clinically tested nutrition for both food and environmental allergies

Cons

• Expensive compared to other dog food brands
• May not be suitable for dogs with certain dietary restrictions
• Some dogs may not like the taste

We’ve tried Hill’s Prescription Diet Derm Complete Skin -amp; Food Sensitivities Dry Dog Food on our dog who has food allergies and it has worked wonders for his skin. The food is formulated to promote an environment that makes it difficult for struvite and calcium oxalate crystals to form, which is an added bonus.

The food is specially formulated to help manage your dog’s environmental or food sensitivities and support their skin’s natural barrier against environmental irritants year-round. We noticed visible skin healing in as little as 21 days, which was a huge relief for our dog who was constantly scratching and biting at his skin.

However, this dog food is expensive compared to other brands on the market. Additionally, it may not be suitable for dogs with certain dietary restrictions, so it’s important to consult with your veterinarian before making the switch.

Overall, if you’re looking for a high-quality dog food that can help manage your dog’s itching caused by food or environmental sensitivities, Hill’s Prescription Diet Derm Complete Skin -amp; Food Sensitivities Dry Dog Food is worth considering.

Buying Guide

When choosing the best dog food for itching, there are a few key features to look for to ensure that your dog’s needs are met. Here are some factors to consider when making your decision:

Ingredients

The first thing to consider when choosing a dog food for itching is the ingredients. Look for high-quality protein sources such as chicken, beef, or fish. Avoid dog foods with fillers such as corn, wheat, or soy, as these can cause allergic reactions and contribute to itching. Additionally, consider the source and quality of the ingredients used in the dog food.

Nutritional Value

It is important to choose a dog food that provides the necessary nutritional value for your dog’s age, size, and activity level. Look for dog foods that are specifically formulated for dogs with itching and skin allergies, as these will often contain additional nutrients to support skin health.

Grain-Free

Some dogs may have allergies or sensitivities to grains, which can contribute to itching and other skin issues. Consider choosing a grain-free dog food to help alleviate these symptoms.

Omega Fatty Acids

Omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids are essential for maintaining healthy skin and coat. Look for dog foods that contain these fatty acids, either through natural sources such as fish oil or through added supplements.

Limited Ingredient Diet

If your dog has a history of allergies or sensitivities, consider a limited ingredient diet. These dog foods contain a smaller number of ingredients, making it easier to identify and eliminate potential allergens.

By considering these factors, you can select the best dog food for your dog’s itching and skin allergies. Remember to always consult with your veterinarian before making any changes to your dog’s diet.

Frequently Asked Questions

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

When looking for a dog food to help with skin allergies, we recommend looking for ingredients that are high in omega-3 fatty acids, such as fish oil, flaxseed, and salmon. These ingredients can help reduce inflammation and improve skin and coat health. Additionally, foods that are rich in antioxidants, such as vitamin E and vitamin C, can also be beneficial.

Are there any natural remedies to alleviate itching in dogs?

There are several natural remedies that can help alleviate itching in dogs. These include adding coconut oil to your dog’s food, using oatmeal-based shampoos, and giving your dog supplements such as probiotics and digestive enzymes. However, it’s important to note that natural remedies should not replace veterinary care, and you should always consult with your veterinarian before trying any new treatments.

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

If your dog is experiencing itching and you suspect that their food may be the cause, there are a few signs to look out for. These include excessive scratching, red or irritated skin, hair loss, and ear infections. If you suspect that your dog’s food may be causing their itching, we recommend speaking with your veterinarian to determine the best course of action.

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

Salmon-based dog foods can be beneficial for dogs with itchy skin because they are high in omega-3 fatty acids, which can help reduce inflammation and improve skin and coat health. Additionally, salmon is a good source of protein and is easy to digest, making it a great option for dogs with sensitive stomachs.

Is it necessary to feed my dog hypoallergenic food to reduce scratching?

If your dog is experiencing itching, it may be necessary to switch to a hypoallergenic dog food to determine if food allergies are the cause. Hypoallergenic dog foods are formulated with limited ingredients, making it easier to identify and eliminate potential allergens. However, it’s important to note that not all cases of itching are caused by food allergies, and you should always consult with your veterinarian before making any dietary changes.

Can a grain-free diet improve my dog’s skin condition and reduce itching?

While some dogs may benefit from a grain-free diet, it’s important to note that not all cases of itching are caused by grains. In fact, some grain-free dog foods may contain other ingredients that can cause allergic reactions. If you suspect that your dog’s itching may be caused by grains, we recommend speaking with your veterinarian to determine the best course of action.