Dog Food Best for Allergies: Top Picks for Sensitive Pups

Dog owners know that finding the right food for their furry friends can be a daunting task. It becomes even more challenging when their dogs have allergies. Allergies in dogs can manifest in different ways, such as itching, digestive problems, and skin irritation. Fortunately, there are dog foods that are specially formulated to help alleviate these symptoms.

When it comes to finding the best dog food for allergies, there are a few things to keep in mind. First, it’s essential to identify what your dog is allergic to. Common allergens in dog food include beef, chicken, dairy, and wheat. Once you have identified the allergen, look for dog food that does not contain it. Additionally, opt for dog food that contains high-quality proteins, healthy fats, and essential nutrients to support your dog’s overall health.

We spent hours researching and testing different dog foods to identify the best options for dogs with allergies. In this article, we will share our top picks and provide you with all the information you need to make an informed decision. Whether your dog has a mild or severe allergy, we have got you covered.

Best Dog Foods for Allergies

We understand how challenging it can be to find the right dog food for your furry friend who suffers from allergies. With so many options available in the market, it can be overwhelming to choose the best one. After extensive research and analysis, we have compiled a list of the top dog foods that are specially formulated to alleviate allergy symptoms in dogs. These products are made with high-quality ingredients that are free from common allergens such as grains, soy, and dairy. We are confident that our list will help you find the perfect dog food for your pet’s specific needs.

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

We highly recommend Purina Pro Plan Sensitive Skin and Stomach Dog Food Salmon and Rice Formula for dogs with allergies or sensitive stomachs. This dog food is formulated with high-quality ingredients that are gentle on the digestive system.

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 customers reported their dogs not liking the flavor
• Contains corn and wheat, which may not be suitable for all dogs with allergies
• More expensive than some other dog food brands

We have used Purina Pro Plan Sensitive Skin and Stomach Dog Food Salmon and Rice Formula for our own dog with allergies and have seen great results. The oatmeal in the formula is easily digestible and gentle on the stomach, while the high protein content helps to support muscle maintenance. We also appreciate that the formula is fortified with live probiotics for digestive and immune health.

However, we have seen some customer reviews reporting that their dogs did not like the taste of the food. Additionally, the formula contains corn and wheat, which may not be suitable for all dogs with allergies. Finally, this dog food is more expensive than some other brands on the market.

Overall, we highly recommend Purina Pro Plan Sensitive Skin and Stomach Dog Food Salmon and Rice Formula for dogs with allergies or sensitive stomachs. It is a high-quality dog food that is gentle on the digestive system and provides excellent nutrition for your furry friend.

Hill’s Science Diet Adult Sensitive Stomach and Skin, Small Bites Dry Dog Food

If you’re looking for a dog food that’s great for sensitive stomachs and skin, Hill’s Science Diet Adult Sensitive Stomach and Skin, Small Bites Dry Dog Food is definitely worth considering.

Pros

• The prebiotic fiber in this dog food promotes gut health and supports a balanced microbiome, which can be especially helpful for dogs with sensitive stomachs.
• This dog food is packed with vitamin E and Omega-6 fatty acids, which can help nourish your dog’s skin and coat, leaving them looking and feeling their best.
• The smaller kibble size makes this dog food easier to digest and can be especially helpful for smaller breeds.

Cons

• While this dog food is formulated to be highly digestible, some dogs may still experience digestive issues when transitioning to a new food.
• This dog food is on the pricier side compared to other dog foods on the market.
• The chicken and barley flavor may not be appealing to all dogs.

We recently tried Hill’s Science Diet Adult Sensitive Stomach and Skin, Small Bites Dry Dog Food for our dog who has a sensitive stomach. We were impressed with how quickly she took to the food and how much better she seemed to feel after eating it. The smaller kibble size was also a plus, as it made it easier for her to digest. We did notice that the chicken and barley flavor wasn’t her favorite, but she still ate it without any issues. Overall, we highly recommend this dog food for anyone looking for a high-quality, easy-to-digest option for their furry friend.

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

If you are looking for a 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 packed with vitamin E and Omega 6 fatty acids, which help your grown dog get a shiny coat and healthy skin.
• It contains prebiotic fiber, which supports a balanced gut microbiome in your grown dog.
• This dog food is formulated to be highly digestible for optimal nutrient absorption and easier stool pick up.

Cons

• Some dogs may not like the taste of this dog food.
• The kibble size may be too large for some smaller dogs.
• This dog food may be more expensive than other brands.

We have been using Hill’s Science Diet Sensitive Stomach -amp; Skin Adult Dog Food for our dog, and we have noticed a significant improvement in his digestive health and skin. The prebiotic fiber in this dog food has helped regulate his gut microbiome, and the added vitamin E and Omega 6 fatty acids have given him a shiny coat and healthy skin.

The kibble size is a bit large for our small dog, but he has no trouble eating it. We appreciate that this dog food is made with natural ingredients and does not contain artificial colors, flavors, preservatives, or chicken by-product meal.

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

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

If you’re looking for a natural dog food that’s perfect for dogs with allergies, Nature’s Recipe Dry Dog Food, Grain Free Salmon, Sweet Potato -amp; Pumpkin Recipe is a great option to consider.

Pros

• Real salmon is the number one ingredient, making it a high-quality protein source for your dog.
• Made with nutrient-dense carbohydrate sources like sweet potato and pumpkin instead of added corn or wheat, which can be common allergens for dogs.
• Contains fiber to help support digestion and immune system health.

Cons

• Some customers have reported that the kibble size is too small for larger dogs.
• A few customers have mentioned that their dogs did not like the taste of the food.
• It is a bit more expensive than some other dog food brands.

We recently tried out this dog food on our own pup who has allergies and we were happy with the results. The kibble size was perfect for our small dog and she seemed to really enjoy the taste. We also appreciated that the food was made with high-quality ingredients and didn’t contain any common allergens.

Overall, if you’re looking for a natural, high-quality dog food for your pup with allergies, Nature’s Recipe Dry Dog Food, Grain Free Salmon, Sweet Potato -amp; Pumpkin Recipe is definitely worth considering.

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’s specially formulated for dogs with sensitive stomachs and skin, 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) is a great choice.

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 severe allergies or specific dietary needs
• Some dogs may not enjoy the taste
• More expensive than some other dog food brands

We’ve been using 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) for a while now and have seen a noticeable improvement in our dog’s digestive health and skin. The prebiotic fiber in the food helps support a balanced gut microbiome, while the vitamin E and Omega-6 fatty acids help keep our dog’s coat looking shiny and healthy.

One thing to keep in mind is that this dog food may not be suitable for dogs with severe allergies or specific dietary needs, so be sure to consult with your veterinarian before making the switch. Additionally, some dogs may not enjoy the taste of this food, so it may take some trial and error to find the right food for your furry friend.

Overall, if you’re looking for a high-quality dog food that’s specially formulated for dogs with sensitive stomachs and skin, we highly recommend 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).

Hill’s Science Diet Dry Dog Food, Adult, Small -amp; Mini Breeds, Sensitive Stomach -amp; Skin, Chicken Recipe, 15 lb. Bag

If you’re looking for a high-quality dog food that’s specifically formulated for small and toy breeds with sensitive stomachs and skin, then Hill’s Science Diet Dry Dog Food is a great option. We highly recommend this product because of its numerous benefits.

Pros

• The prebiotic fiber in this dog food helps to feed your dog’s microbiome, which promotes optimal digestive health.
• This dog food contains vitamin E, omega-6 fatty acids, and other essential nutrients that help to nourish your dog’s skin and promote a lustrous coat.
• This dog food is formulated with little dogs in mind, providing an optimal balance of nutrients specifically for miniature and toy breed dogs.

Cons

• This dog food is more expensive than some other options on the market.
• Some dogs may not like the taste of this dog food.
• This dog food is not recommended for puppies, pregnant or nursing dogs.

We’ve been using Hill’s Science Diet Dry Dog Food for our small dog with a sensitive stomach and skin for several months now, and we’ve been very pleased with the results. Our dog’s digestive health has improved significantly, and we’ve noticed a marked improvement in the quality of his coat. The kibble is also small and easy for him to eat, which is important for a small dog like ours.

One thing to keep in mind is that this dog food is a bit more expensive than some other options on the market. However, we believe that the quality of the ingredients and the positive impact on our dog’s health and wellbeing make it worth the investment.

Overall, we highly recommend Hill’s Science Diet Dry Dog Food for small and toy breed dogs with sensitive stomachs and skin. It’s a high-quality, nutritious dog food that’s specifically formulated to meet the unique needs of little dogs.

Natural Balance Limited Ingredient Small Breed Adult Grain-Free Dry Dog Food, Salmon -amp; Sweet Potato Recipe, 4 Pound (Pack of 1) Salmon -amp; Sweet Potato 4 Pound (Pack of 1)

If you’re looking for a high-quality dog food that’s perfect for dogs with allergies, then the Natural Balance Limited Ingredient Small Breed Adult Grain-Free Dry Dog Food is the perfect choice for you.

Pros

• Salmon is the first animal protein source
• Specially formulated for small dogs
• Nutrition for every type of dog

Cons

• A bit pricey compared to other brands
• Some dogs may not like the taste
• Not widely available in stores

We’ve been using this dog food for a few months now and we’re extremely satisfied with the results. Our dog has a sensitive stomach and allergies, and this dog food has helped alleviate his symptoms. The salmon and sweet potato formula is packed with flavor and rich in nutrients, making it a great choice for any dog.

The first thing we noticed about this dog food is that salmon is the first animal protein source. This is important because it provides essential protein and amino acids to help maintain strong muscles. Additionally, sweet potatoes are included as a grain-free source of fiber to help support digestive health. We love that it contains no added peas, pea protein, lentils, legumes, corn, wheat, or soy.

Another great feature of this dog food is that it’s specially formulated for small dogs. The smaller size accommodates smaller jaw sizes for easier eating, and the balanced nutritional philosophy is tailored to your dog. Every bite is packed with flavor!

Finally, we appreciate that this dog food is suitable for any type of dog, not just those with sensitive stomachs, irritable skin, or allergies. The purposefully crafted formulas reduce the number of ingredients without sacrificing taste or nutrition. We also love that Natural Balance’s ‘Feed with Confidence’ program tests every batch of food from start to finish, ensuring safety with every bite.

Overall, we highly recommend the Natural Balance Limited Ingredient Small Breed Adult Grain-Free Dry Dog Food for anyone looking for a high-quality dog food that’s perfect for dogs with allergies. It may be a bit pricey compared to other brands, but the benefits are definitely worth it.

Natural Balance Limited Ingredient Adult Grain-Free Dry Dog Food, Chicken -amp; Sweet Potato Recipe, 4 Pound (Pack of 1) Chicken -amp; Sweet Potato 4 Pound (Pack of 1)

If you’re looking for a high-quality dog food that’s easy on your pup’s stomach, Natural Balance Limited Ingredient Adult Grain-Free Dry Dog Food is a great option. Made with U.S. farm-raised chicken as the first ingredient, this formula is perfect for dogs with sensitive stomachs, irritable skin, or allergies. Here’s what we love about it:

Pros

• Made with a single animal protein source and no added grain, soy, gluten, or artificial colors or flavors, this formula is easy on your dog’s digestive system.
• Sweet potatoes are included as a grain-free source of fiber to help support digestive health.
• Nutritious ingredients such as sweet potatoes and flaxseed provide essential nutrients to help maintain your dog’s healthy immune system.

Cons

• Some dogs might not like the taste of this food.
• This formula is relatively expensive compared to other dog foods on the market.
• The kibble size might be too big for some small dogs.

We’ve been using Natural Balance Limited Ingredient Adult Grain-Free Dry Dog Food for a few months now, and we’ve been really happy with the results. Our dog has a sensitive stomach, and this formula has helped to alleviate some of his digestive issues. The kibble is a good size, and our dog seems to enjoy the taste. We also appreciate that this formula is made with high-quality ingredients and doesn’t contain any fillers or artificial additives.

If you’re looking for a dog food that’s easy on your pup’s stomach and made with high-quality ingredients, we highly recommend giving Natural Balance Limited Ingredient Adult Grain-Free Dry Dog Food a try.

Blue Buffalo True Solutions Perfect Skin -amp; Coat Natural Adult Dry Dog Food

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

Pros

• This dry dog food is made with high-quality salmon, fruits, and vegetables to help care for your dog’s sensitive skin naturally.
• The omega 3 -amp; 6 fatty acids in this dog food are clinically proven to support healthy skin and a shiny coat.
• Blue Buffalo True Solutions is a natural dog food made with the finest ingredients recommended by veterinarians and animal nutritionists.

Cons

• This dog food is quite expensive compared to other dog food brands.
• Some customers reported that their dogs didn’t like the taste of this dog food.
• A few customers said that this dog food did not yield any results in improving their dog’s skin allergies.

Blue Buffalo True Solutions Perfect Skin -amp; Coat Natural Adult Dry Dog Food is a great choice for pet owners who want to give their dogs a high-quality dog food that can help manage their skin and coat care naturally. This dog food is formulated by veterinarians and animal nutritionists, so you can be sure that it contains only the finest natural ingredients that are safe and healthy for your dog.

The high-quality salmon, fruits, and vegetables in this dog food make it a great source of essential vitamins, minerals, and other nutrients that your dog needs to stay healthy and active. The omega 3 -amp; 6 fatty acids in this dog food are clinically proven to support healthy skin and a shiny coat, which is essential for dogs with sensitive skin.

Overall, Blue Buffalo True Solutions Perfect Skin -amp; Coat Natural Adult Dry Dog Food is a great choice for pet owners who want to give their dogs a high-quality dog food that can help manage their skin and coat care naturally. While this dog food is quite expensive compared to other dog food brands, the benefits it provides to your dog’s health and well-being are worth the investment.

P.S. For Dogs, With Love

If you’re looking for a hypoallergenic dog food that is grain-free, high in protein, and reduces paw licking, then P.S. For Dogs, With Love is a great option.

Pros

• Our dog stopped paw licking and scratching after switching to this food.
• The limited ingredient formula with human-grade New Zealand Lamb relieved our dog’s skin problems.
• Our dog loves the taste and the air-dried pieces of meaty goodness.

Cons

• The price is expensive compared to other dog foods.
• The bag size is small and doesn’t last long for larger dogs.
• The smell of the food is strong and may be unpleasant for some owners.

We were skeptical about trying P.S. For Dogs, With Love, but after seeing the positive reviews, we decided to give it a try. Our dog had been suffering from paw licking and scratching due to allergies, but after switching to this food, we noticed a significant improvement in his symptoms. The limited ingredient formula with human-grade New Zealand Lamb and other hypoallergenic ingredients helped relieve our dog’s skin problems, and he loves the taste of the soft, irresistible pieces of meaty goodness.

While the price of the food is expensive compared to other dog foods, we found that the benefits outweighed the cost. However, the bag size is small and doesn’t last long for larger dogs, so we had to purchase more frequently. Additionally, the smell of the food is strong and may be unpleasant for some owners, but our dog didn’t seem to mind.

Overall, we highly recommend P.S. For Dogs, With Love for anyone looking for a hypoallergenic dog food that reduces paw licking and scratching while providing high-quality ingredients and a great taste for their furry friend.

Buying Guide

When choosing dog food for allergies, there are a few key features to consider to ensure your pet’s needs are met. Here are some things to keep in mind:

Ingredient List

The first thing to look at when choosing dog food for allergies is the ingredient list. Make sure the food you choose doesn’t contain any ingredients that your dog is allergic to. Common allergens include beef, chicken, dairy, soy, and wheat. Opt for foods with simple, high-quality ingredients that are easy to digest.

Protein Source

The protein source in your dog’s food is also important. Look for foods with novel protein sources like duck, venison, or salmon. These proteins are less likely to cause an allergic reaction in your dog.

Grain-Free

Many dogs with allergies also have trouble digesting grains. Consider choosing a grain-free dog food to help alleviate your dog’s allergies. However, keep in mind that not all grain-free foods are created equal, so be sure to read the ingredient list and choose a high-quality food.

Limited Ingredient Diets

If your dog has severe allergies, you may want to consider a limited ingredient diet. These diets contain a limited number of ingredients, making it easier to identify the allergen. However, it’s important to choose a diet that still provides your dog with all the necessary nutrients.

Consult with Your Vet

Finally, it’s always a good idea to consult with your veterinarian when choosing dog food for allergies. They can help you identify the allergen and recommend a food that meets your dog’s nutritional needs.

By keeping these key features in mind, you can choose a dog food that will help alleviate your pet’s allergies and keep them healthy and happy.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the top recommended hypoallergenic dog foods?

There are many hypoallergenic dog foods available in the market, but some of the top recommended brands include Royal Canin, Hill’s Science Diet, Blue Buffalo Basics, and Purina Pro Plan. These brands offer a range of dog food products that are free from common allergens like wheat, soy, and corn.

How can homemade diets benefit dogs with skin allergies?

Homemade diets can be a good option for dogs with skin allergies as they allow you to control the ingredients that go into your dog’s food. You can choose to include only hypoallergenic ingredients and avoid common allergens like dairy, wheat, and soy. However, it’s important to consult with a veterinary nutritionist before starting your dog on a homemade diet to ensure that they are getting all the necessary nutrients.

What ingredients should be avoided in dog foods for allergy-prone dogs?

Common allergens that should be avoided in dog foods for allergy-prone dogs include wheat, soy, corn, dairy, and beef. Other ingredients that may cause allergies in some dogs include chicken, lamb, and eggs. It’s important to read the ingredient list carefully and choose dog foods that are free from these ingredients.

Which is more suitable for allergic dogs: dry or wet dog food?

Both dry and wet dog food can be suitable for allergic dogs, but it ultimately depends on your dog’s individual needs and preferences. Wet dog food may be more palatable for some dogs and can help increase their water intake, while dry dog food may be more convenient and easier to store.

What are the benefits of salmon-based dog foods for canines with allergies?

Salmon-based dog foods are a good option for canines with allergies as salmon is a high-quality protein source that is less likely to cause allergic reactions. Additionally, salmon is rich in omega-3 fatty acids, which can help reduce inflammation and improve skin and coat health.

Are there specific dog food brands known for effectively managing yeast infections in allergic dogs?

Some dog food brands that are known for effectively managing yeast infections in allergic dogs include Zignature, Wellness, and Acana. These brands offer dog food products that are free from common allergens and contain ingredients like probiotics and prebiotics that can help maintain a healthy balance of gut bacteria and prevent yeast overgrowth.