Best Hydrolyzed Dog Food: Top Brands for Sensitive Dogs

Hydrolyzed dog food has become increasingly popular in recent years due to its benefits for dogs with food sensitivities or allergies. Hydrolyzed dog food is made by breaking down the protein in the food into smaller molecules that are less likely to trigger an immune response. This makes it easier for dogs with sensitive stomachs or allergies to digest and absorb nutrients.

When it comes to finding the best hydrolyzed dog food, there are a few critical factors to consider. First and foremost, it’s essential to choose a product that is made with high-quality ingredients and meets your dog’s specific dietary needs. You’ll also want to look for a product that is easy to digest and provides all the essential nutrients your dog needs to thrive.

In this article, we spent countless hours researching and testing various hydrolyzed dog foods to identify the ones that are the best for your furry friend. We’ll go over the top products on the market, what makes them stand out, and what you should consider before making a purchase. By the end of this article, you’ll have all the information you need to make an informed decision and choose the best hydrolyzed dog food for your pup.

Best Hydrolyzed Dog Food

We understand that finding the right dog food for your furry friend can be a daunting task. With so many options available, it’s important to choose a food that meets your dog’s unique dietary needs. That’s why we’ve researched and tested various brands to bring you our list of the best hydrolyzed dog food options on the market. Hydrolyzed dog food is a great option for dogs with food sensitivities or allergies, as the protein is broken down into smaller components that are less likely to trigger an immune response. Keep reading to find the perfect hydrolyzed dog food for your pup!

SquarePet Veterinarian Formulated Solutions Hydrolyzed Protein Skin and Digestive Support Dry Dog Food

We highly recommend SquarePet Veterinarian Formulated Solutions Hydrolyzed Protein Skin and Digestive Support Dry Dog Food for dogs with food sensitivities or skin, haircoat, or GI concerns. This hydrolyzed protein diet is formulated with better ingredients and a better solution-based nutrition at a better value.

Pros

• The hydrolyzed protein in this dog food can help limit skin and GI reactions found with other common protein ingredients.
• The crucial omega 3 and 6 fatty acids, including DHA and EPA, support healthy skin, a shiny coat, immune system health, and brain function.
• Made with high-quality protein and one primary carbohydrate source, this limited ingredient diet is all-natural nutrition with no chemical preservatives or fillers.

Cons

• The feeding guidelines may not be suitable for all dogs, and it is essential to consult with a veterinarian before making any significant changes to your dog’s diet.
• Some dogs may not like the taste of the pork flavor, and it may take some time for them to adjust to the new diet.
• The kibble size may not be suitable for small dogs or dogs with dental issues.

SquarePet Veterinarian Formulated Solutions Hydrolyzed Protein Skin and Digestive Support Dry Dog Food is a premium option to existing veterinary formulations. It is veterinarian-formulated to support dogs with food sensitivities or skin, haircoat, or GI concerns. The hydrolyzed protein in this dog food helps limit skin and GI reactions found with other common protein ingredients.

This dog food is made with high-quality protein and one primary carbohydrate source, making it a limited ingredient diet. It is all-natural nutrition with no chemical preservatives or fillers, and it is made in the USA with no ingredients from China. The crucial omega 3 and 6 fatty acids, including DHA and EPA, support healthy skin, a shiny coat, immune system health, and brain function.

The feeding guidelines for this dog food are based on the dog’s weight and are available on the product packaging. However, it is essential to consult with a veterinarian before making any significant changes to your dog’s diet.

Overall, SquarePet Veterinarian Formulated Solutions Hydrolyzed Protein Skin and Digestive Support Dry Dog Food is an excellent option for dogs with food sensitivities or skin, haircoat, or GI concerns. It is a premium option at a better value, and it is all-natural nutrition with no chemical preservatives or fillers.

Pro Plan Veterinary Diets HA Hydrolyzed Chicken Flavor Canine Formula Dry Dog Food

If you’re looking for a dog food that is highly digestible and made with high-quality ingredients, then Pro Plan Veterinary Diets HA Hydrolyzed Chicken Flavor Canine Formula Dry Dog Food might be the right choice for you.

Pros

• Contains hydrolyzed protein sources
• Single carbohydrate source
• Highly digestible to promote optimal nutrient absorption

Cons

• Expensive compared to other dog foods
• Some dogs may not like the taste
• May not work for all dogs with food allergies

We recently tried Pro Plan Veterinary Diets HA Hydrolyzed Chicken Flavor Canine Formula Dry Dog Food for our dog who has food allergies and digestive issues. We were impressed with the quality of the ingredients and the fact that it contains hydrolyzed protein sources, which are less likely to cause an adverse food reaction in certain dogs.

One of the things we liked about this dog food is that it has a single carbohydrate source, which makes it easier to identify and eliminate potential allergens. We also appreciated that it is highly digestible, which helps promote optimal nutrient absorption.

However, we did find that this dog food is quite expensive compared to other options on the market. Additionally, some dogs may not like the taste, which can make it difficult to switch to this food. Finally, while this dog food worked well for our dog, it may not work for all dogs with food allergies.

Overall, we would recommend Pro Plan Veterinary Diets HA Hydrolyzed Chicken Flavor Canine Formula Dry Dog Food to anyone looking for a high-quality dog food for their dog with food allergies or digestive issues. However, it is important to keep in mind that it may not work for all dogs and that it is more expensive than other options on the market.

Hill’s Prescription Diet z/d Skin/Food Sensitivities Dry Dog Food

If you are looking for a dog food that helps with skin and food sensitivities, Hill’s Prescription Diet z/d Skin/Food Sensitivities Dry Dog Food is a great option to consider.

Pros

• This dog food is specially formulated by Hill’s nutritionists and veterinarians to support your dog’s skin and food sensitivities.
• It is clinically tested to help avoid skin and digestive signs of adverse food reactions.
• The highly hydrolyzed animal protein and single purified carbohydrate source help avoid common food allergens.

Cons

• The cost of this dog food is higher than other non-prescription options.
• Some dogs may not like the taste of this food.
• It is only available with a prescription from a veterinarian.

We have been using this dog food for our dog who has skin and food sensitivities, and we have noticed a significant improvement in his condition. The food is enriched with essential fatty acids and promotes a healthy skin barrier. Additionally, the clinically proven antioxidants help support a healthy immune system.

One thing to keep in mind is that this dog food is only available with a prescription from a veterinarian. Additionally, the cost of this dog food is higher than other non-prescription options. However, we believe that the benefits of this dog food outweigh the cost.

Overall, if you are looking for a dog food that helps with skin and food sensitivities, we highly recommend Hill’s Prescription Diet z/d Skin/Food Sensitivities Dry Dog Food.

Hill’s Prescription Diet z/d Skin/Food Sensitivities Dry Dog Food

We highly recommend Hill’s Prescription Diet z/d Skin/Food Sensitivities Dry Dog Food for dogs with skin and food sensitivities. This specially formulated dog food is clinically tested to help avoid skin and digestive signs of adverse food reactions.

Pros

• Highly hydrolyzed animal protein and single purified carbohydrate source help avoid common food allergens
• Clinically proven antioxidants help support a healthy immune system
• Enriched with essential fatty acids and promotes a healthy skin barrier

Cons

• Expensive compared to regular dog food
• Some dogs may not like the taste
• Only available with a prescription from a veterinarian

Our dog had consistent struggles with his digestive system until we switched to Hill’s Prescription Diet z/d Skin/Food Sensitivities Dry Dog Food. We noticed significant improvement in his skin and digestion. This dog food is enriched with essential fatty acids and promotes a healthy skin barrier, which has helped our dog maintain healthy skin. Additionally, the highly hydrolyzed animal protein and single purified carbohydrate source helps avoid common food allergens.

While this dog food is expensive compared to regular dog food, we believe it is worth the cost for the benefits it provides our dog. However, some dogs may not like the taste, so it’s important to introduce it gradually and monitor their reaction. Also, it’s important to note that this dog food is only available with a prescription from a veterinarian.

Overall, if your dog has skin and food sensitivities, we highly recommend Hill’s Prescription Diet z/d Skin/Food Sensitivities Dry Dog Food.

Hill’s Science Diet Perfect Weight Adult Dog Food

If you’re looking for a weight management dog food that can help your furry friend maintain a healthy weight, Hill’s Science Diet Perfect Weight Adult Dog Food is a great option to consider.

Pros

• Over 70% of adult dogs lost weight within 10 weeks when fed this safe and effective weight management dog food.
• Made with natural ingredients, this adult dog food supports muscle maintenance.
• Clinically proven for weight management, this breakthrough adult dry dog food is a great-tasting meal your grown dog can truly enjoy.

Cons

• This dog food is relatively expensive compared to other brands.
• Some dogs may not like the taste of this food.
• The kibble size may not be suitable for dogs with smaller mouths.

We’ve been using Hill’s Science Diet Perfect Weight Adult Dog Food for a few months now, and we’re very happy with the results. Our dog has lost weight and is now at a healthy weight, and we’ve noticed an improvement in his overall health and energy levels.

One of the things we love about this dog food is that it’s made with natural ingredients and is clinically proven for weight management. Over 70% of adult dogs lost weight within 10 weeks when fed this safe and effective weight management dog food, and we’ve seen the results firsthand.

Another great thing about this dog food is that it supports muscle maintenance, which is important for maintaining a healthy weight. We’ve noticed that our dog has maintained his muscle mass even as he’s lost weight, which is a great sign of a healthy diet.

Of course, there are some downsides to this dog food as well. It’s relatively expensive compared to other brands, so it may not be the best option if you’re on a tight budget. Additionally, some dogs may not like the taste of this food, so it may take some trial and error to find the right food for your furry friend.

Overall, we highly recommend Hill’s Science Diet Perfect Weight Adult Dog Food for anyone looking for a weight management dog food that can help their furry friend maintain a healthy weight.

Hill’s Science Diet Dry Dog Food, Adult, Sensitive Stomach -amp; Skin, Chicken Recipe, 30 lb. Bag Chicken -amp; Barley 3.75 Gallon (Pack of 1)

If you’re looking for a high-quality dog food that promotes digestive health and nourishes skin, Hill’s Science Diet Sensitive Stomach -amp; Skin Adult Dog Food is a great option.

Pros

• Promotes digestive health while nourishing skin
• Highly digestible for optimal nutrient absorption -amp; easier stool pick-up
• Packed with vitamin E -amp; Omega-6 fatty acids to help your grown dog get a lustrous coat and healthy skin

Cons

• May not be suitable for dogs with specific dietary restrictions
• Some dogs may not like the taste
• A bit more expensive than other options

We recently tried out Hill’s Science Diet Sensitive Stomach -amp; Skin Adult Dog Food and were impressed with the results. Our dog’s coat looked shinier and healthier after just a few weeks of using this food. We also noticed that his digestion seemed to be improved, with less bloating and gas.

One thing we appreciated about this dog food is that it’s made with natural ingredients and is formulated to be highly digestible for optimal nutrient absorption and easier stool pick-up. It’s also packed with vitamin E and Omega-6 fatty acids to help promote healthy skin and a lustrous coat.

While this dog food may be a bit more expensive than other options, we think it’s worth the investment if you’re looking for a high-quality dog food that promotes digestive health and nourishes skin. However, it’s important to note that this food may not be suitable for dogs with specific dietary restrictions, and some dogs may not like the taste.

Overall, we would 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.

Rachael Ray Nutrish Premium Natural Dry Dog Food

We highly recommend purchasing Rachael Ray Nutrish Premium Natural Dry Dog Food due to its high-quality ingredients and its ability to support a healthy mind, body, and energy level in your furry friend.

Pros

• Real beef is the number one ingredient, which helps support healthy organs and maintain lean muscle mass.
• Whole Health Blend includes omega-3 fatty acids from fish oil to help support an active mind, antioxidants to help support a healthy body, and whole grains to help maintain balanced energy levels.
• Contains no fillers, artificial flavors, or artificial preservatives.

Cons

• Some dogs may not like the taste of the beef, pea, and brown rice recipe.
• The 40-pound bag may be too large for some households or storage spaces.
• Pricier than some other dog food brands on the market.

Rachael Ray Nutrish Premium Natural Dry Dog Food has been a great addition to our dog’s diet. We appreciate that it contains high-quality ingredients and does not include any fillers or artificial flavors. Our dog seems to enjoy the taste and has maintained a healthy weight while eating this food. We also like that a portion of the proceeds from the sale of this product is donated to The Rachael Ray Foundation, which helps animals in need.

The real beef, pea, and brown rice recipe provides our dog with essential nutrients to support healthy organs and maintain lean muscle mass. The Whole Health Blend is a great addition, providing omega-3 fatty acids from fish oil, antioxidants, and whole grains to support a healthy mind, body, and energy level. We have noticed an improvement in our dog’s coat and overall energy level since switching to this food.

While some dogs may not like the taste of the beef, pea, and brown rice recipe, our dog seems to enjoy it. However, the 40-pound bag may be too large for some households or storage spaces. Additionally, this food is pricier than some other dog food brands on the market. Overall, we highly recommend Rachael Ray Nutrish Premium Natural Dry Dog Food for its high-quality ingredients and ability to support a healthy lifestyle for your furry friend.

Hill’s Science Diet Adult Large Breed Dry Dog Food

If you’re looking for a high-quality dog food that supports your large breed dog’s health, Hill’s Science Diet Adult Large Breed Dry Dog Food is an excellent choice.

Pros

• Provides natural sources of Glucosamine and Chondroitin for joint health
• Nourishes skin and coat with omega-6 fatty acids and vitamin E
• High-quality protein promotes lean muscle in large dogs

Cons

• More expensive than some other dog food brands
• Some dogs may not like the taste
• May not be suitable for dogs with certain dietary restrictions

We’ve been using Hill’s Science Diet Adult Large Breed Dry Dog Food for our Great Dane for several months now and have seen a noticeable improvement in his overall health and energy levels. The natural sources of Glucosamine and Chondroitin have helped to support his joints, which is especially important for a large breed dog. We’ve also noticed that his coat looks shinier and healthier since switching to this food.

One thing to keep in mind is that this dog food is more expensive than some other brands. However, we believe that the high-quality ingredients and health benefits are worth the extra cost. Additionally, some dogs may not like the taste of this food, so it’s important to monitor your dog’s reaction when making the switch.

Overall, we highly recommend Hill’s Science Diet Adult Large Breed Dry Dog Food for anyone looking to provide their large breed dog with a nutritious and high-quality diet.

Blue Buffalo Natural Veterinary Diet HF Hydrolyzed for Food Intolerance Dry Dog Food

If you’re looking for a dog food that’s formulated to manage your dog’s sensitive stomach issues, then Blue Buffalo Natural Veterinary Diet HF Hydrolyzed for Food Intolerance Dry Dog Food could be the perfect choice for you.

Pros

• Made with hydrolyzed salmon, which is a highly digestible protein source that helps minimize the chances of adverse reactions to food
• Contains natural ingredients enhanced with vitamins, minerals, and other nutrients, including omega 3 -amp; 6 fatty acids to support healthy skin and coat
• Does not contain chicken (or poultry) by-product meals, corn, wheat, soy, or artificial flavors or preservatives

Cons

• This therapeutic diet requires your veterinarian’s authorization
• May not be affordable for all pet owners
• May not be suitable for dogs with severe food allergies or intolerances

We’ve been using Blue Buffalo Natural Veterinary Diet HF Hydrolyzed for Food Intolerance Dry Dog Food for our dog who has a sensitive stomach, and we’ve been very pleased with the results. Our dog loves the taste of the hydrolyzed salmon, and we’ve noticed a significant improvement in his overall health and well-being.

One of the things we love about this dog food is that it’s made with natural ingredients and does not contain any chicken (or poultry) by-product meals, corn, wheat, soy, or artificial flavors or preservatives. This gives us peace of mind knowing that we’re feeding our dog a healthy and nutritious diet.

Another thing we appreciate about this dog food is that it contains omega 3 -amp; 6 fatty acids to support healthy skin and coat. Our dog’s coat has never looked better since we started feeding him this dog food.

Overall, we highly recommend Blue Buffalo Natural Veterinary Diet HF Hydrolyzed for Food Intolerance Dry Dog Food to any pet owner whose dog has a sensitive stomach. It may not be the most affordable option out there, but it’s definitely worth the investment if you want to keep your dog healthy and happy.

Forza10 Active Colon Support Diet Phase 1 Hydrolyzed Dog Food

If you have a dog suffering from chronic diarrhea, colitis, or constipation, Forza10 Active Colon Support Diet Phase 1 Hydrolyzed Dog Food might be the solution you’re looking for.

Pros

• The single source protein formula is free of corn, soy, wheat, by-product meals, antibiotics, GMOs, and artificial preservatives, colors, and flavors.
• Developed specifically for dogs with food intolerances and digestive diseases.
• Contains natural and healthy ingredients that improve your dog’s overall health and help reduce the risk of food intolerances and allergies.

Cons

• The wild-caught anchovy protein flavor may not be appealing to all dogs.
• The food has a strong fishy smell that some owners may find unpleasant.
• The price point may be higher than other dog food options.

We have been using Forza10 Active Colon Support Diet Phase 1 Hydrolyzed Dog Food for our dog who has been suffering from chronic diarrhea for years. We have tried many different dog foods and diets, but none have worked as well as this one. The single source protein formula has helped reduce our dog’s symptoms, and we have seen a significant improvement in his overall health.

The natural and healthy ingredients in this formula have also helped reduce the risk of food intolerances and allergies. We have noticed that our dog’s skin and coat are healthier and shinier than ever before. Additionally, the food is easy to digest, and our dog has not experienced any digestive issues since we started using it.

One downside to this dog food is the strong fishy smell. While our dog doesn’t seem to mind, some owners may find it unpleasant. Additionally, the price point may be higher than other dog food options. However, we believe that the benefits of using this product outweigh the cost.

Overall, we highly recommend Forza10 Active Colon Support Diet Phase 1 Hydrolyzed Dog Food for any dog suffering from chronic diarrhea, colitis, or constipation. It has made a significant difference in our dog’s health and quality of life.

Buying Guide

When it comes to choosing the best hydrolyzed dog food, there are a few key features that you should look for. Here are some factors to consider:

Protein Source

One of the most important things to look for in a hydrolyzed dog food is the source of protein. The protein should come from a high-quality source, such as chicken or fish. Avoid products that use low-quality protein sources, like by-products or fillers.

Hydrolyzed Protein

The protein in the dog food should be hydrolyzed, which means that it has been broken down into smaller molecules. This makes the protein easier for your dog to digest and less likely to cause an allergic reaction. Look for products that clearly state that the protein is hydrolyzed on the label.

Carbohydrates

Carbohydrates are an important source of energy for your dog, but they should not be the main ingredient in the dog food. Look for products that have a lower percentage of carbohydrates and a higher percentage of protein.

Vitamins and Minerals

A good hydrolyzed dog food should also contain a variety of vitamins and minerals to support your dog’s overall health. Look for products that include vitamins A, C, and E, as well as minerals like zinc and selenium.

Price

While price should not be the only factor when choosing a hydrolyzed dog food, it is important to consider. Some products can be quite expensive, so it is important to find a product that fits your budget while still meeting your dog’s nutritional needs.

By considering these factors when choosing a hydrolyzed dog food, you can ensure that you are providing your dog with a high-quality, nutritious diet that meets their unique dietary needs.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the potential side effects of feeding dogs hydrolyzed protein food?

Hydrolyzed protein dog food is generally considered safe for dogs. However, some dogs may experience digestive upset, such as diarrhea or vomiting, when transitioning to a new diet. If your dog experiences these symptoms, it’s important to consult with your veterinarian to determine the cause and appropriate treatment.

Which hydrolyzed dog foods are recommended for dogs with IBD?

There are several hydrolyzed protein dog foods that are recommended for dogs with inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), including Royal Canin Veterinary Diet Hydrolyzed Protein Adult HP, Hill’s Prescription Diet z/d Ultra, and Purina Pro Plan Veterinary Diets HA Hydrolyzed. It’s important to consult with your veterinarian to determine which diet is best for your dog’s specific needs.

Are there non-prescription options for hydrolyzed protein dog foods?

Most hydrolyzed protein dog foods require a prescription from a veterinarian. However, there are a few non-prescription options available, such as Blue Buffalo Basics Limited Ingredient Diet, which uses hydrolyzed salmon as the protein source.

What are the advantages and disadvantages of feeding dogs hydrolyzed protein food?

The main advantage of feeding dogs hydrolyzed protein food is that it can be beneficial for dogs with food allergies or intolerances. Hydrolyzed protein is broken down into smaller molecules that are less likely to trigger an immune response. However, the main disadvantage is that it can be more expensive than traditional dog food.

How does Royal Canin’s hydrolyzed protein dog food compare to other brands?

Royal Canin Veterinary Diet Hydrolyzed Protein Adult HP is a popular choice among veterinarians and pet owners. It has a high success rate in managing food allergies and intolerances, and it has a palatable taste that most dogs enjoy. However, there are other brands available that may be equally effective for your dog’s specific needs.

Are there any effective alternatives to commercial hydrolyzed protein dog food?

There are a few alternative options for dogs with food allergies or intolerances, such as homemade diets or novel protein diets. However, it’s important to consult with a veterinarian or veterinary nutritionist before making any changes to your dog’s diet, as these diets can be difficult to balance and may not provide all the necessary nutrients.