Best Dry Dog Food for Allergies: Top Picks for Sensitive Pups

Dogs with allergies can be a real challenge for pet owners. Finding the right food that will help manage their allergies and keep them healthy can be a daunting task. Dry dog food is a popular choice for many pet owners because it’s convenient and easy to store. However, not all dry dog food is created equal, and some can actually make your dog’s allergies worse.

When it comes to finding the best dry dog food for allergies, there are a few things to keep in mind. First, it’s important to look for a food that is specifically formulated for dogs with allergies. These foods are designed to be hypoallergenic, which means they don’t contain common allergens like wheat, soy, or corn. They also often contain novel proteins, which are proteins that your dog may not have been exposed to before, making them less likely to cause an allergic reaction.

Another thing to consider is the quality of the ingredients in the food. Look for a food that uses high-quality, whole food ingredients and avoids artificial preservatives, colors, and flavors. This can help ensure that your dog is getting the nutrients they need to stay healthy and avoid further allergic reactions.

We spent hours researching and testing various dry dog foods to identify the best options for dogs with allergies. In the following sections, we’ll share our top picks and what makes them stand out from the rest.

Best Dry Dog Food for Allergies

As dog owners, we understand the importance of providing our furry friends with the best possible nutrition. For dogs with allergies, finding the right food can be a challenge. That’s why we’ve researched and tested various options to bring you our top picks for the best dry dog food for 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.

Blue Buffalo True Solutions Perfect Skin -amp; Coat Natural Adult Dry Dog Food, Salmon, 11-lb Salmon 11 Pound (Pack of 1)

If you are looking for a dry dog food that is specially formulated for dogs with sensitive skin, then Blue Buffalo True Solutions Perfect Skin -amp; Coat Natural Adult Dry Dog Food is worth considering.

Pros

• The high-quality salmon gives your dog a great taste and is a good source of protein.
• The omega 3 -amp; 6 fatty acids clinically proven to support healthy skin and shiny coat.
• The natural ingredients recommended by veterinarians, including antioxidant-rich LifeSource Bits, make this a safe and healthy option for your dog.

Cons

• This dog food is quite expensive compared to other brands.
• Some dogs may not like the taste of salmon.
• It may take some time for your dog to adjust to the new food.

We have been using this dog food for a few weeks now and have seen a noticeable improvement in our dog’s skin and coat. The high-quality salmon gives our dog a great taste and is a good source of protein. We also appreciate that this dog food is made with natural ingredients recommended by veterinarians, including antioxidant-rich LifeSource Bits.

However, we do acknowledge that this dog food is quite expensive compared to other brands, and some dogs may not like the taste of salmon. It may also take some time for your dog to adjust to the new food.

Overall, if you are looking for a dry dog food that is specially formulated for dogs with sensitive skin, Blue Buffalo True Solutions Perfect Skin -amp; Coat Natural Adult Dry Dog Food is a great option to consider.

Hill’s Pet Nutrition Science Diet Dry Dog Food, Adult, Sensitive Stomach -amp; Skin, Chicken -amp; Barley Recipe, 4 lb. Bag

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

Pros

• This dog food is formulated with prebiotic fiber to support a balanced gut microbiome in your grown dog.
• Hill’s Science Diet Sensitive Stomach -amp; Skin Adult Dog Food is made with natural ingredients that provide an excellent source of vitamin E and Omega-6 fatty acids to nourish your dog’s skin and help maintain a healthy, shiny coat.
• This dog food is highly digestible for optimal nutrient absorption and easier stool pick up.

Cons

• Hill’s Science Diet Sensitive Stomach -amp; Skin Adult Dog Food is more expensive than some other brands of dog food.
• Some dogs may not like the taste of this dog food.
• The kibble size may not be suitable for smaller dogs.

We’ve been using Hill’s Science Diet Sensitive Stomach -amp; Skin Adult Dog Food for our dog with a sensitive stomach for several months now, and we’ve seen a noticeable improvement in her digestion. The prebiotic fiber in this dog food has helped to support a balanced gut microbiome, and our dog’s coat is shinier and healthier-looking than ever before.

One thing to keep in mind is that Hill’s Science Diet Sensitive Stomach -amp; Skin Adult Dog Food is more expensive than some other brands of dog food. However, we believe that the benefits of this dog food are well worth the cost.

Another potential downside is that some dogs may not like the taste of this dog food. We were fortunate that our dog took to it right away, but we know that not all dogs are the same.

Finally, the kibble size may not be suitable for smaller dogs. Our dog is a medium-sized breed, so we haven’t had any issues, but if you have a smaller dog, you may want to consider a different brand of dog food with smaller kibble size.

Overall, we highly recommend Hill’s Science Diet Sensitive Stomach -amp; Skin Adult Dog Food for any dog with digestive issues or skin problems. It’s a bit more expensive than some other brands, but the benefits are well worth the cost.

AvoDerm Natural Lamb Meal -amp; Brown Rice Recipe Dry Dog Food

We highly recommend AvoDerm Natural Lamb Meal -amp; Brown Rice Recipe Dry Dog Food for pet owners looking for a high-quality dry dog food that promotes healthy skin and coat. This protein-rich recipe provides healthy and balanced nutrition, while also supporting a healthy immune system. The best part is that it is wheat-free, corn-free, and soy-free, making it an excellent choice for dogs with allergies.

Pros

• Promotes healthy skin and coat
• Protein-rich recipe
• Supports healthy immune system

Cons

• Relatively expensive compared to other dog food brands
• Not suitable for dogs with lamb allergies
• Strong odor

We have been using AvoDerm Natural Lamb Meal -amp; Brown Rice Recipe Dry Dog Food for quite some time now, and we can confidently say that it is one of the best dry dog foods for allergies on the market. Our dog’s coat has never looked better, and we have noticed a significant improvement in his overall health since switching to this brand.

One of the things we love about AvoDerm is that it is made with natural omega-rich avocados, which promote healthy skin and coat. Additionally, the premium, meat-based proteins provide healthy and balanced nutrition, while the rich source of vitamins, minerals, and antioxidant nutrients support a healthy immune system.

Another great thing about AvoDerm is that it is wheat-free, corn-free, and soy-free, making it an excellent choice for dogs with allergies. We have noticed a significant improvement in our dog’s allergies since switching to this brand, and we highly recommend it to other pet owners who are struggling with similar issues.

However, it is worth noting that AvoDerm is relatively expensive compared to other dog food brands. Additionally, it is not suitable for dogs with lamb allergies, as it contains lamb meal as the main ingredient. Finally, some pet owners may find the strong odor of the dog food off-putting.

Overall, we highly recommend AvoDerm Natural Lamb Meal -amp; Brown Rice Recipe Dry Dog Food to pet owners looking for a high-quality dry dog food that promotes healthy skin and coat, provides healthy and balanced nutrition, and supports a healthy immune system.

NUTRO ULTRA Adult Small Breed High Protein Natural Dry Dog Food with a Trio of Proteins from Chicken, Lamb and Salmon, 15 lb. Bag Lamb,Chicken,Salmon 15 Pound (Pack of 1)

This dog food is perfect for small breed adult dogs that require a nutrient-rich and complete diet. We highly recommend it due to its high-quality ingredients and delicious taste.

Pros

• Made with real chicken as the #1 ingredient
• Contains a trio of high-quality protein from poultry, lamb, and salmon
• Features 15 vibrant superfoods like coconut, chia, kale, and blueberries

Cons

• Trace amounts of genetically modified material may be present due to potential cross-contact during manufacturing
• Some dogs may not like the taste
• Not suitable for large breed dogs

We have been using this dog food for our small breed adult dog for a while now, and we have noticed a significant improvement in her overall health. The kibble is easy to chew and digest, which is perfect for small dogs with sensitive stomachs.

One of the things we love about this dog food is that it is made with high-quality ingredients sourced from trusted farmers and suppliers. We also appreciate that it follows the NUTRO FEED CLEAN philosophy, which means that it contains no artificial preservatives, flavors, or colors.

Our dog absolutely loves the taste of this dog food, and we love that it provides her with a balanced diet that is nutrient-rich and full of flavor. The trio of protein from chicken, lamb, and salmon provides her with the necessary energy to stay active throughout the day.

Overall, we highly recommend this dog food to anyone looking for a high-quality, nutrient-rich, and delicious dog food for their small breed adult dog.

NUTRO ULTRA Adult High Protein Natural Dry Dog Food with a Trio of Proteins from Chicken, Lamb and Salmon, 15 lb. Bag 15 Pound (Pack of 1)

If you’re looking for a high-quality dog food that provides complete and balanced nutrition for your furry friend, NUTRO ULTRA Adult Dry Dog Food is definitely worth considering.

Pros

• The trio of protein from chicken, lamb, and salmon provides a rich source of high-quality protein that is essential for maintaining your dog’s overall health.
• The 15 vibrant superfoods, like coconut, chia, kale, blueberries, and other quality ingredients, make this dog food highly nutritious and beneficial for your dog’s immune system.
• Made with no chicken by-product meal, corn, soy, or wheat, and no artificial flavors, colors, or preservatives, NUTRO ULTRA Dry Dog Food is a healthy and natural option that you can feel good about feeding to your dog.

Cons

• Some dogs may not like the taste of this dog food, so it may take some time for your dog to get used to it.
• This dog food is a bit on the expensive side compared to other options on the market.
• The 15 lb. bag may not last very long if you have a larger dog or multiple dogs to feed.

Overall, we highly recommend NUTRO ULTRA Adult Dry Dog Food for its high-quality ingredients, complete and balanced nutrition, and natural and healthy formula. It may be a bit pricey, but it’s definitely worth it for the health and well-being of your furry friend.

Nulo Freestyle Limited Ingredient Dog Food

We highly recommend Nulo Freestyle Limited Ingredient Dog Food for dogs with allergies. Our experience with this product has been great, and we believe it can help your pet too.

Pros

• The salmon recipe is perfect for dogs with allergies, and the grain-free kibble blend with single animal protein promotes a healthy, active, and happy life.
• The high meat/low carb formula contains 74% animal-based protein, more amino acids, and better flavor, and Nulo uses fewer carbs and low glycemic ingredients.
• Nulo Freestyle Limited Ingredient dog food is specially formulated for dogs who prefer a simpler diet, and it’s made without common filler ingredients like corn and tapioca, with no artificial colors or preservatives.

Cons

• The cost of this dog food is higher compared to other brands.
• Some dogs may not like the taste of the salmon recipe.
• Amazon sometimes ships the product in a regular envelope, which can cause the kibbles to break upon arrival.

We have been using Nulo Freestyle Limited Ingredient Dog Food for a few months now, and our dog’s coat looks shiny and healthy. The Omega-3 and Omega-6 fatty acids in the dog food nourish the skin and promote a beautiful coat. We also noticed that our dog’s digestion has improved since switching to this dog food.

The 5.5 lb bag is perfect for small to medium-sized dogs, and the resealable bag keeps the kibbles fresh for a long time. The BC30 probiotic in the dog food supports healthy digestive function, and we have not experienced any digestive issues with our dog since switching to this brand.

Overall, we highly recommend Nulo Freestyle Limited Ingredient Dog Food for dogs with allergies. It’s a premium, allergy-friendly, grain-free dry kibble dog food that promotes healthy coat and lean muscles.

NUTRO ULTRA Adult Weight Management High Protein Natural Dry Dog Food for Weight Control with a Trio of Proteins from Chicken, Lamb and Salmon, 30 lb. Bag

If you’re looking for a dry dog food that can help manage your dog’s weight without sacrificing taste, NUTRO ULTRA Adult Weight Management Dry Dog Food is a great option to consider.

Pros

• This dog food features real chicken as the #1 ingredient, along with lamb and salmon for a trio of high-quality proteins that can help your dog maintain lean muscle mass.
• With 20% less fat than NUTRO ULTRA’s Adult Superfood Plate recipe, this weight management formula can help your dog achieve and maintain a healthy weight.
• Made with Non-GMO ingredients and free from chicken by-product meal, corn, wheat, and soy protein, this dog food is a great choice for dogs with allergies or sensitivities.

Cons

• Some dogs may not like the taste of this dog food, as taste preferences can vary from dog to dog.
• This dog food may be more expensive than some other options on the market.
• While this dog food is designed for weight management, it may not be effective on its own and should be used in conjunction with regular exercise and other weight management strategies.

If you’re looking for a dog food that can help your dog maintain a healthy weight without sacrificing taste, NUTRO ULTRA Adult Weight Management Dry Dog Food is definitely worth considering. This dog food features a trio of high-quality proteins from chicken, lamb, and salmon, along with a blend of 15 superfoods like coconut, chia, kale, and blueberries to provide your dog with complete and balanced nutrition. Plus, with no artificial flavors, colors, or preservatives, you can feel good about feeding this dog food to your furry friend.

In our experience, dogs seem to enjoy the taste of this dog food, but taste preferences can vary from dog to dog. While this dog food may be more expensive than some other options on the market, we believe that the quality of the ingredients and the nutritional value of this dog food make it a worthwhile investment. However, it’s important to note that this dog food should be used in conjunction with regular exercise and other weight management strategies to be effective. Overall, we highly recommend NUTRO ULTRA Adult Weight Management Dry Dog Food for any dog in need of a healthy, tasty, and nutritious weight management option.

Nulo Freestyle Limited Ingredient Small Breed Dog Food

If you’re looking for a high-quality dog food that’s specially formulated for small breeds with allergies, Nulo Freestyle Limited Ingredient Small Breed Dog Food is a great choice.

Pros

• Made with single animal protein for easy digestion
• No common filler ingredients like corn and tapioca
• High-quality protein supports lean muscle mass and a healthy heart

Cons

• Expensive compared to other dog foods
• Some dogs may not like the taste
• May not be suitable for dogs with severe allergies

We recently tried this dog food for our small breed dog with allergies, and we were impressed with the results. The limited ingredient formula made it easy to identify any potential allergens, and the single animal protein source (turkey) was easy for our dog to digest.

The high-quality protein in this dog food helped our dog maintain lean muscle mass, and the smaller kibble size was perfect for his tiny mouth. We also noticed that his coat looked shinier and healthier after switching to this food, thanks to the omega 3 and 6 fatty acids.

One downside to this dog food is that it’s more expensive than some other options on the market. Additionally, some dogs may not like the taste, so it may take some trial and error to find a flavor that your dog enjoys. Finally, while this food is great for dogs with mild to moderate allergies, it may not be suitable for dogs with severe allergies.

Overall, we highly recommend Nulo Freestyle Limited Ingredient Small Breed Dog Food for dogs with allergies. While it may be more expensive than some other options, the high-quality ingredients and limited formula make it a great choice for dogs with sensitive stomachs.

Rachael Ray Nutrish Premium Natural Dry Dog Food

We highly recommend the Rachael Ray Nutrish Premium Natural Dry Dog Food for dogs with allergies. This dog food is made with real beef, pea, and brown rice recipe that helps support healthy organs and maintain lean muscle mass. It also contains fiber sources including peas and brown rice that help support healthy digestion.

Pros

• The number one ingredient is real beef, which is an excellent source of protein for dogs.
• Includes Nutrish’s Whole Health Blend that helps support a healthy mind, body, and energy level.
• No fillers, no artificial flavors, and no artificial preservatives.

Cons

• Some dogs may not like the taste of beef, pea, and brown rice recipe.
• The bag is quite large and may be difficult to store for some pet owners.
• The price is slightly higher compared to other dog food brands.

We have been using Rachael Ray Nutrish Premium Natural Dry Dog Food for our dog with allergies for several months now, and we have noticed a significant improvement in his overall health. He has more energy, and his coat looks shiny and healthy. We also appreciate 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.

If you are looking for a high-quality dog food that is made with real ingredients and helps support your dog’s overall health, we highly recommend giving Rachael Ray Nutrish Premium Natural Dry Dog Food a try.

Forza10 Sensitive Skin Dog Food

If you’re looking for a dry dog food that can help with common skin problems like dog dry skin, hair loss, redness, fur loss, hotspots, and unpleasant skin odors, Forza10 Sensitive Skin Dog Food might be the solution you need. This premium dog food is formulated to help dogs with skin allergies and itching.

Pros

• Made with healthy natural ingredients, including wild-caught anchovies, and free of corn, wheat, soy, GMOs, artificial preservatives, colors, or flavors.
• Contains therapeutic plants and fruit extracts for better taste, making it a great option for dogs with skin food sensitivities.
• Fast results with improved skin and coat in a short time.

Cons

• Some dogs may not like the fish flavor.
• It’s a bit pricey compared to other dog foods.
• The bag size may be small for larger dogs.

We have been using Forza10 Sensitive Skin Dog Food for a few weeks now, and we have seen a noticeable improvement in our dog’s skin and coat. Our dog has struggled with flare-ups and itchy skin, but this hypoallergenic dog food formula has helped to clear up his skin.

One of the things we love about this dog food is that it’s made with healthy, natural ingredients that we feel good about giving to our dog. We also appreciate that it’s free of common allergens like corn, wheat, and soy.

While the fish flavor may not be for every dog, our dog seems to enjoy it, and we’ve noticed that he’s been eating his meals more eagerly since we switched to this dog food.

Overall, we would recommend Forza10 Sensitive Skin Dog Food to any dog owner looking for a dry dog food that can help with skin allergies and itching. It may be a bit pricey, but we think it’s worth it for the improved results we’ve seen in our dog’s skin and coat.

Buying Guide

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

Ingredients

The first thing to look for when choosing a dry dog food for allergies is the ingredients list. Look for high-quality protein sources such as chicken, turkey, or fish. Avoid foods that contain by-products or fillers, as these can trigger allergic reactions in some dogs. Additionally, look for foods that are free from common allergens such as wheat, corn, and soy.

Nutritional Value

Choose a dry dog food that is nutritionally balanced and meets your dog’s specific needs. Look for foods that are high in protein and contain essential vitamins and minerals. Avoid foods that are high in fat or sugar, as these can lead to weight gain and other health problems.

Brand Reputation

Choose a reputable brand that has a history of producing high-quality dog food. Look for brands that use high-quality ingredients and have a good track record of producing safe and healthy dog food.

Price

While price is not always an indicator of quality, it is important to choose a dry dog food that fits within your budget. Look for foods that are reasonably priced and offer good value for money.

Packaging

Choose a dry dog food that is packaged in a way that keeps it fresh and free from contaminants. Look for foods that are packaged in air-tight bags or containers and avoid foods that are packaged in flimsy or poorly sealed bags.

By considering these factors when choosing a dry dog food for allergies, you can ensure that you are providing your dog with a high-quality, nutritious, and safe food that meets their specific needs.

Frequently Asked Questions

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

When selecting dry dog food for a dog with allergies, it is important to choose a product that is made with high-quality, easily digestible proteins such as chicken, lamb, or fish. Avoid ingredients such as beef, dairy, and soy, which are common allergens for dogs. Additionally, look for dog food that contains a limited number of ingredients to minimize the risk of triggering an allergic reaction.

How can we identify if our dog’s food is causing their skin allergies?

If your dog is experiencing skin allergies, it may be caused by their food. Symptoms include itching, redness, and inflammation of the skin, as well as ear infections and gastrointestinal issues. To identify if your dog’s food is causing their allergies, try switching to a hypoallergenic dog food that contains novel proteins and carbohydrates, such as duck and sweet potato, which your dog has not been exposed to before.

Are there specific brands recommended for dogs with itchy skin?

There are several brands of dry dog food that are specifically formulated for dogs with itchy skin and allergies. Some of the most popular brands include Royal Canin, Hill’s Science Diet, and Purina Pro Plan. These brands offer a variety of hypoallergenic dog food options that are designed to minimize the risk of triggering an allergic reaction.

What is the most common allergen in dog food that triggers allergic reactions?

The most common allergen in dog food that triggers allergic reactions is protein. Beef, chicken, dairy, and soy are all common protein allergens for dogs. In addition to protein, other ingredients such as wheat, corn, and artificial preservatives can also trigger an allergic reaction in dogs.

Is it better to choose grain-free dog food for a dog with allergies?

There is no clear evidence that grain-free dog food is better for dogs with allergies. In fact, some grain-free dog foods may contain other ingredients that can trigger an allergic reaction in dogs. When selecting dry dog food for a dog with allergies, it is important to choose a product that is made with high-quality, easily digestible proteins and limited ingredients.

Can a homemade diet be beneficial for dogs with skin allergies, and what should it include?

A homemade diet can be beneficial for dogs with skin allergies, as it allows you to control the ingredients that your dog is consuming. However, it is important to consult with a veterinarian or veterinary nutritionist to ensure that your dog is receiving a balanced and complete diet. A homemade diet for a dog with skin allergies should include a high-quality protein source, such as chicken or fish, as well as a variety of fruits and vegetables for essential nutrients.