Best Food for Dog with Allergy: Top Picks for Sensitive Canines

When it comes to our furry friends, we want to make sure they are getting the best of everything, including their food. Unfortunately, some dogs can suffer from allergies that can make finding the right food a challenge. Whether it’s a food allergy or an environmental allergy, it’s important to find the best food for your dog to help them feel their best.

The best food for dogs with allergies is typically a hypoallergenic food that is free from common allergens like wheat, soy, and corn. These foods often contain alternative protein sources like salmon, lamb, or duck, and can also include alternative carbohydrate sources like sweet potatoes or peas. It’s important to read the ingredients list carefully and consult with your veterinarian to determine which ingredients your dog may be allergic to.

When choosing a hypoallergenic food, it’s important to pay attention to the quality of the ingredients. Look for high-quality protein sources and avoid foods that contain by-products or fillers. Additionally, consider the size and age of your dog, as well as any other dietary needs they may have.

We spent hours researching and testing various hypoallergenic dog foods to identify the best options for dogs with allergies. In the following sections, we will share our top picks and provide a detailed analysis of each product.

Best Dog Food for Allergies

As dog owners, we know how important it is to ensure our furry friends are healthy and happy. However, when it comes to allergies, finding the right food for your dog can be a challenge. With so many options available, it can be overwhelming to determine which one is best for your pup. That’s why we’ve researched and compiled a list of the best dog food for allergies. Our selection includes products that are specially formulated to address common food allergens, such as grains, chicken, and beef. We’ve also included options that are free from artificial preservatives, colors, and flavors, so you can be confident you’re feeding your dog the best possible food. Check out our top picks below.

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

If you are looking for a dog food that is gentle on your furry friend’s sensitive skin and stomach, we highly recommend Purina Pro Plan Sensitive Skin and Stomach Dog Food Salmon and Rice Formula. With a high-quality source of protein and easily digestible sources of carbohydrates, this dog food helps nourish your dog’s digestive health.

Pros

• Oatmeal is easily digestible and gentle on the digestive system.
• High protein formula, with real salmon as the first ingredient.
• Fortified with guaranteed live probiotics for digestive and immune health.

Cons

• Some dogs may not like the taste of the food.
• The kibble size may be too big for smaller dogs.
• The price point may be higher than other dog food brands.

Our experience with Purina Pro Plan Sensitive Skin and Stomach Dog Food Salmon and Rice Formula has been positive. Our dog has a sensitive stomach and skin, and this food has helped alleviate some of his symptoms. The kibble size is perfect for our medium-sized dog, and he seems to enjoy the taste.

One of the standout features of this dog food is the inclusion of live probiotics, which help support digestive and immune health. We have noticed a positive difference in our dog’s digestive system since switching to this food.

Another benefit of this food is the high protein content, with real salmon as the first ingredient. This helps support our dog’s muscle maintenance and overall health.

While the price point may be higher than some other dog food brands, we believe the quality of the ingredients and the positive impact on our dog’s health make it worth the investment.

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

Hill’s Science Diet Sensitive Stomach -amp; Skin Adult Dog Food

We highly recommend Hill’s Science Diet Sensitive Stomach -amp; Skin Adult Dog Food for those looking for a high-quality dog food that promotes digestive health while nourishing skin and providing a balanced microbiome.

Pros

• The prebiotic fiber in this dog food supports a balanced gut microbiome in your grown dog, promoting optimal digestive health.
• This dog food is formulated to be highly digestible for optimal nutrient absorption and easier stool pick up, making it a great choice for dogs with sensitive stomachs.
• Packed with vitamin E and Omega 6 fatty acids, this dog food helps your grown dog get a lustrous coat and healthy skin.

Cons

• Some dogs may not like the taste of this dog food.
• This dog food is more expensive than some other options on the market.
• The packaging is not resealable, which can make it difficult to keep the food fresh.

We recently tried Hill’s Science Diet Sensitive Stomach -amp; Skin Adult Dog Food for our dog with a sensitive stomach and have been very pleased with the results. Our dog seems to love the taste of the food, and we have noticed a significant improvement in his overall health and well-being.

One of the things we love about this dog food is the prebiotic fiber, which promotes a balanced gut microbiome and optimal digestive health. We have also noticed that our dog’s coat is shinier and healthier-looking since we started feeding him this food.

While this dog food is more expensive than some other options on the market, we believe that the quality of the ingredients and the positive impact on our dog’s health make it well worth the investment. The only downside we have noticed is that the packaging is not resealable, so we have had to transfer the food to another container to keep it fresh.

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

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 your dog’s skin and coat, Hill’s Science Diet Adult Sensitive Stomach and Skin, Small Bites Dry Dog Food might be worth considering.

Pros

• This dry dog food is formulated to be highly digestible, which makes it easier for your dog to absorb nutrients and pick up stools.
• The smaller kibble size promotes digestive health while nourishing your dog’s skin and coat with vitamin E, omega-6 fatty acids, and other nutrients.
• Made with natural ingredients, this dog food provides an excellent source of nutrition for adult dogs and is specially formulated to be a great-tasting meal they’ll enjoy.

Cons

• Some dogs may not like the taste of this food, so it’s important to introduce it gradually and monitor your dog’s reaction.
• This dog food is relatively expensive compared to other brands, which may not be feasible for some pet owners.
• Some customers have reported issues with the packaging, which can be difficult to open and reseal.

We recently tried Hill’s Science Diet Adult Sensitive Stomach and Skin, Small Bites Dry Dog Food and were impressed with the results. Our dog has a sensitive stomach and often experiences digestive issues, but this food seemed to help alleviate those problems. The smaller kibble size was also a big plus, as it made it easier for our dog to chew and digest. We also noticed an improvement in our dog’s coat, which seemed shinier and healthier after eating this food for a few weeks.

Overall, we would recommend Hill’s Science Diet Adult Sensitive Stomach and Skin, Small Bites Dry Dog Food to anyone looking for a high-quality dog food that promotes digestive health and nourishes your dog’s skin and coat. While it may be more expensive than some other brands, we believe the benefits outweigh the cost.

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

If you’re looking for a high-quality dog food that’s designed for dogs with allergies, then the Nulo Freestyle Limited Salmon Recipe Grain-Free Puppy -amp; Adult Dry Dog Food is definitely worth considering.

Pros

• Made with a single animal protein, ideal for dogs who prefer a simple diet.
• Contains 30% crude protein.
• Formulated with low-carbohydrate and low-glycemic ingredients.

Cons

• The high cost may not be budget-friendly for some pet owners.
• Some dogs may not like the taste of salmon.
• The kibble may break during shipping.

We have been using this dog food for a few months now and have noticed a significant improvement in our dog’s coat and overall health. The single animal protein source makes it easy to digest and has helped with our dog’s allergies. The 30% crude protein content is also a plus, as it helps to keep our dog’s muscles lean and strong.

One thing to note is that the kibble may break during shipping, so it’s important to handle the bag with care. Also, the high cost may not be budget-friendly for some pet owners, but we believe it’s worth the investment for the quality of the product.

Overall, we highly recommend the Nulo Freestyle Limited Salmon Recipe Grain-Free Puppy -amp; Adult Dry Dog Food for pet owners who are looking for a high-quality dog food that’s designed for dogs with allergies.

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

We highly recommend purchasing Nulo Freestyle Limited Salmon Recipe Grain-Free Puppy -amp; Adult Dry Dog Food for dogs with allergies because it is a single animal protein formula that promotes healthy skin, a shiny coat, and lean muscle mass.

Pros

• Made from salmon, a high-quality protein source that is easy to digest and provides essential amino acids for lean muscle mass.
• Grain-free formula that is perfect for dogs with food sensitivities or allergies.
• Loaded with probiotics to support digestive and immune health.

Cons

• Some dogs may not like the taste of salmon.

We have been using Nulo Freestyle Limited Salmon Recipe Grain-Free Puppy -amp; Adult Dry Dog Food for our dog with allergies for several months now, and we have seen a significant improvement in her overall health and wellbeing. The formula is loaded with probiotics that support her digestive and immune health, and the single animal protein source ensures that she gets all the essential nutrients she needs for a complete and balanced diet. We also love that it is grain-free and made in the USA without any artificial colors or preservatives.

Our dog loves the taste of the salmon, and we have noticed a significant improvement in her coat’s health and shine since we started using this food. We highly recommend Nulo Freestyle Limited Salmon Recipe Grain-Free Puppy -amp; Adult Dry Dog Food to anyone looking for a high-quality dog food that is perfect for dogs with allergies.

Open Farm Grass-Fed Beef Grain-Free Dry Dog Food

If you’re looking for a high-quality dog food that is free of artificial flavors and preservatives, Open Farm Grass-Fed Beef Grain-Free Dry Dog Food is a great option to consider.

Pros

• Made with humanely raised beef from family farms
• Includes non-GMO superfoods like pumpkin, carrot, and coconut oil
• 100% transparent sourcing practices

Cons

• Expensive compared to other dog foods on the market
• Some dogs may not enjoy the taste
• Not suitable for dogs with certain dietary restrictions

We recently tried Open Farm Grass-Fed Beef Grain-Free Dry Dog Food with our own dogs and were impressed with the quality of the ingredients. The beef is sourced from family farms and is raised without the use of additives, making it a great option for dogs with allergies or sensitivities. The inclusion of non-GMO superfoods like pumpkin, carrot, and coconut oil helps to provide a balanced and complete diet for our furry friends.

One of the standout features of this dog food is the transparency of the sourcing practices. Each bag includes a lot number that allows owners to trace the origin of every ingredient, giving us peace of mind that we are feeding our dogs the best possible food.

While the price point is higher than some other dog foods on the market, we feel that the quality of the ingredients justifies the cost. However, some dogs may not enjoy the taste of this particular flavor, so it may not be the best option for picky eaters.

Overall, we highly recommend Open Farm Grass-Fed Beef Grain-Free Dry Dog Food for anyone looking for a high-quality dog food that is free of artificial flavors and preservatives.

Nulo FreeStyle Small Breed Puppy -amp; Adult Turkey Limited Recipe

If you’re looking for a high-quality dog food that’s perfect for small breeds with allergies, then the Nulo FreeStyle Small Breed Puppy -amp; Adult Turkey Limited Recipe is a great option.

Pros

• Contains 57% turkey and turkey meal for building strong muscles
• Specially formulated probiotics help support a healthy gut and immunity
• Lower in carbs and free from potatoes or tapioca, great for dogs with food sensitivities or allergies

Cons

• Only comes in a 5.5 lb bag, may not be cost-effective for larger dogs
• Some picky eaters may not like the smaller kibble size
• May not be suitable for dogs with a sensitivity to turkey

We recently tried this food with our small breed dog who has a sensitive stomach and allergies. We were impressed with the quality of the ingredients and the fact that it’s free from common filler ingredients like corn and tapioca.

The high-quality protein in this food provides amino acids that support lean muscle mass and a healthy heart. We also appreciated the inclusion of omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids, which nourish your dog’s skin and help promote a beautiful and shiny coat.

One thing to note is that this food is specifically formulated for small breeds, so it may not be suitable for larger dogs. Additionally, some picky eaters may not like the smaller kibble size.

Overall, we highly recommend the Nulo FreeStyle Small Breed Puppy -amp; Adult Turkey Limited Recipe for anyone looking for a high-quality dog food that’s perfect for small breeds with allergies.

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

If you want a natural dog food that can help manage your dog’s sensitive skin, then Blue Buffalo True Solutions Perfect Skin -amp; Coat Natural Adult Dry Dog Food is worth considering.

Pros

• The high-quality salmon in this dog food is a good source of protein and omega-3 fatty acids that can help support healthy skin and coat.
• This dog food is made with natural ingredients recommended by veterinarians and animal nutritionists, and it has no corn, wheat, soy, dairy or eggs, which may cause sensitivities.
• The antioxidant-rich LifeSource Bits in this dog food can help support immune system health.

Cons

• Some reviewers have noted that this dog food is expensive compared to other brands.
• A few reviewers have reported that this dog food did not help their dog’s skin allergies.
• Some dogs may not like the taste of this dog food.

We recently tried Blue Buffalo True Solutions Perfect Skin -amp; Coat Natural Adult Dry Dog Food for our dog with sensitive skin. We were impressed with the high-quality salmon and the natural ingredients in this dog food. Our dog seemed to enjoy the taste, and we noticed an improvement in his coat after a few weeks of feeding him this dog food.

One thing to keep in mind is that this dog food is more expensive than some other brands, so it may not be the best option if you’re on a tight budget. Additionally, some reviewers have reported that this dog food did not help their dog’s skin allergies. Finally, some dogs may not like the taste of this dog food, so it may take some experimentation to find out if your dog enjoys it.

Overall, we think that Blue Buffalo True Solutions Perfect Skin -amp; Coat Natural Adult Dry Dog Food is a good choice if you’re looking for a natural dog food that can help manage your dog’s sensitive skin. However, as with any dog food, it’s important to monitor your dog’s health and consult with your veterinarian if you have any concerns.

Nature’s Recipe Dry Dog Food, Grain Free Salmon, Sweet Potato -amp; Pumpkin Recipe, 24 lb. Bag Dry Food Salmon, Sweet Potato -amp; Pumpkin 24 Pound (Pack of 1)

We highly recommend Nature’s Recipe Grain Free Salmon, Sweet Potato -amp; Pumpkin Recipe for dogs with allergies. This dog food is formulated with high-quality ingredients that are carefully selected to support your dog’s nutritional needs.

Pros

• Real salmon is the first ingredient, providing a quality protein source to help maintain optimal muscle strength.
• Nutrient-dense carbohydrate sources like sweet potato and pumpkin are used instead of added corn or wheat, making it a grain-free option that is easy to digest.
• Omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids from salmon help support skin and coat health, while antioxidants zinc and vitamin E help support a healthy immune system.

Cons

• The kibble size may be too large for smaller dogs, making it difficult for them to eat.
• Some users have reported that the food has a strong smell, which may be unpleasant for some owners.
• While it is a great option for dogs with allergies, it may not be suitable for dogs with certain medical conditions or dietary restrictions.

Overall, Nature’s Recipe Grain Free Salmon, Sweet Potato -amp; Pumpkin Recipe is an excellent choice for dogs with allergies. It is a nutritious and delicious option that is formulated to support your dog’s overall health and well-being.

Rachael Ray Nutrish Premium Natural Dry Dog Food

We highly recommend purchasing Rachael Ray Nutrish Premium Natural Dry Dog Food for dogs with allergies due to its natural ingredients and added vitamins and minerals that support a healthy mind, body, and energy level.

Pros

• Real beef is the number one ingredient, which helps support healthy organs and maintain lean muscle mass.
• Fiber sources including peas and brown rice help support healthy digestion.
• Nutrish’s Whole Health Blend includes omega-3 fatty acids from fish oil, antioxidants like those found in superfoods, and whole grains to help maintain balanced energy levels.

Cons

• Some dogs may not like the taste of this food.
• The kibble size may be too big for smaller dogs.
• The price may be higher than other dog food brands.

Rachael Ray Nutrish Premium Natural Dry Dog Food is a great option for dogs with allergies because it contains no fillers, no artificial flavors, and no artificial preservatives. The Whole Health Blend is a unique feature that includes omega-3 fatty acids from fish oil, antioxidants, and whole grains to help support a healthy mind, body, and energy level. This dog food is also gluten-free and includes added vitamins, minerals, and taurine to support overall health.

One thing to note is that some dogs may not like the taste of this food, so it may take some time to transition them to this brand. Additionally, the kibble size may be too big for smaller dogs, so owners should be aware of this when purchasing. Lastly, the price of Rachael Ray Nutrish Premium Natural Dry Dog Food may be higher than other dog food brands, but the natural and nutritious ingredients make it worth the investment.

Overall, we highly recommend this product for dogs with allergies or those looking for a natural and nutritious dog food option.

Buying Guide

When shopping for dog food for a pet with allergies, there are a few key features to look for to ensure you are selecting the best product. Here are some important factors to consider:

Ingredients

First and foremost, check the ingredients list to ensure that the product does not contain any ingredients that your dog is allergic to. Common allergens include beef, chicken, dairy, and wheat. Look for products that use alternative protein sources such as lamb, fish, or duck.

Limited Ingredient Diets

Consider purchasing a limited ingredient diet (LID) dog food. These products are formulated with a limited number of ingredients to reduce the risk of triggering allergies. LID dog foods often use novel protein sources such as venison or bison, which are less commonly used in dog food.

Grain-Free Options

Some dogs with allergies may also have a sensitivity to grains. If this is the case for your pet, consider a grain-free dog food. These products are made without wheat, corn, or soy and often use alternative carbohydrate sources such as sweet potatoes or peas.

Quality Control

When selecting a dog food, look for products that have undergone rigorous quality control testing. This ensures that the product is free from contaminants and meets nutritional standards. Look for products that have been certified by organizations such as the Association of American Feed Control Officials (AAFCO).

Consult with Your Veterinarian

Finally, before making any changes to your dog’s diet, consult with your veterinarian. They can help you determine the best course of action for managing your pet’s allergies and recommend specific products that may be suitable for your pet.

By considering these factors, you can make an informed decision when selecting a dog food for a pet with allergies.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the top hypoallergenic dog food options for dogs with skin allergies?

There are several hypoallergenic dog food options available for dogs with skin allergies. Some of the top options include Royal Canin Veterinary Diet Hydrolyzed Protein Adult HP, Hill’s Prescription Diet z/d Original Skin/Food Sensitivities Dry Dog Food, and Purina Pro Plan Veterinary Diets HA Hydrolyzed Formula Dry Dog Food. These foods are formulated with hydrolyzed proteins that are broken down into smaller pieces, making it easier for dogs to digest and less likely to trigger an allergic reaction.

How can homemade diets benefit dogs with allergic reactions?

Homemade diets can be beneficial for dogs with allergic reactions as they allow for complete control over the ingredients used. However, it is important to consult with a veterinarian or a veterinary nutritionist to ensure that the homemade diet is nutritionally balanced and meets the dog’s specific dietary needs. Additionally, it is important to note that homemade diets may not be suitable for all dogs with allergies.

What human foods are safe for dogs with dietary allergies?

Not all human foods are safe for dogs with dietary allergies. Some safe options include lean meats such as chicken, turkey, and beef, as well as certain vegetables such as carrots, green beans, and sweet potatoes. However, it is important to consult with a veterinarian before introducing any new foods to a dog’s diet.

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

Dry dog foods that are recommended for dogs with itchy skin and allergies include Blue Buffalo Basics Limited Ingredient Diet, Wellness Simple Limited Ingredient Diet, and Natural Balance L.I.D. Limited Ingredient Diets. These foods are formulated with limited ingredients to reduce the risk of triggering an allergic reaction.

Are there affordable hypoallergenic dog food brands that are effective for allergies?

Yes, there are affordable hypoallergenic dog food brands that are effective for allergies. Some of these brands include Purina Pro Plan Veterinary Diets HA Hydrolyzed Formula Dry Dog Food, Hill’s Prescription Diet z/d Original Skin/Food Sensitivities Dry Dog Food, and Nature’s Recipe Grain-Free Salmon, Sweet Potato -amp; Pumpkin Recipe. However, it is important to note that the cost of hypoallergenic dog food can vary depending on the brand and the size of the bag.

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

Some ingredients that should be avoided in dog food for pets with skin allergies include corn, wheat, soy, and dairy products. Additionally, dog foods that contain artificial preservatives, colors, and flavors may also trigger allergic reactions. It is important to read the ingredient list carefully and consult with a veterinarian to determine which ingredients may be triggering an allergic reaction in a dog.