A list of the best food for dogs with skin allergies, food allergies, or other sensitives. This is for any pet parents struggling to help their dog eat healthy with allergies.
When our dogs don’t feel good it’s hard to tell. Unfortunately they can’t tell us when something hurts or if they aren’t feeling good. That’s why it’s so important for pet parents to keep an eye on their dogs and provide them with regular vet visits to check in on their dog’s symptoms. If your dog is showing signs of having food allergy symptoms, it’s best to have them checked as soon as possible.
Symptoms of Food Allergies in Dogs
- Excessive scratching
- Excessive licking
- Chewing on the same spot
- Persistent sneezing
- Persistent wheezing
- Digestive disruptions (vomiting or diarrhea)
- Rubbing body parts on floor or furniture
- Loss of fur
- Inflamed skin
- Swelling
It’s usually easy to see if your dog has an allergic reaction to something but the best way to be for sure is to have them allergy tested. To test for food allergies, your vet may put your pet on a an elimination diet. This food trial helps determine if your dog’s allergy symptoms are food related. It also helps you identify what exactly your dog’s immune system is having a hard time with. A blood test can also determine food allergies. This is much less invasive than skin testing. The first step is always to get an accurate diagnosis of your pet.
Many actually develop dog allergies when they become adult dogs. Even if they’ve eaten the same food for a long time they can develop a sensitivity to it. In most cases the problem is with the protein source (usually animal protein). If a dog develops allergies, they may have to switch to a hypoallergenic dog food. When we say hypoallergenic food we mean food that has a novel protein, or one not usually found it dog food. Here’s a list of common proteins in dogs food:
Most Common Food Allergens for Dogs
- chicken and chicken eggs
- turkey
- duck
- pork
- beef
- fish
- wheat gluten
- dairy products
One of the first things you’ll notice about these foods is the price. These foods are more expensive than “regular” commercial dog foods. Some also are prescription dog food! Why in the world should you need a prescription for dog food!? The reason the cost is higher is because of the research it takes veterinary nutritionist to develop these special dog’s diet foods. The prescription is required because these foods are formulated differently than regular dog foods and this means the levels of certain nutrients may not meet FDA guidelines. That’s why that prescription is so important! Your dog must be monitored by a vet to make sure they are healthy and you should always follow your vet’s medical advice!
After you’ve identified the specific ingredient causing your dog’s allergies you can find the right food for them. Whether your dog is determined to have a skin allergy, a food allergy, or even just a food intolerance – shopping for the best food can be a challenge. Finding the food that’s best for your dog’s body may take time, but we have a list below that is a great place to start. Changes to your dog’s diet are usually the best way to help them manage! There are options that don’t contain common allergens and will help your dog with sensitive skin not only feel better but give them healthy skin as well!
The Best Food For Dogs with Skin Allergies, Food Allergies, and other sensitivities
Best Dog Food For Allergies
Blue Buffalo Natural Veterinary Diet HF Hydrolyzed for Food Intolerance Dry Dog Food
This prescription dog food is made with natural ingredients - including salmon which is "hydrolyzed" as the main ingredient. This means it's a readily digestible protein source. This will help doggos with a sensitive stomach. This limited ingredient food contains no chicken, wheat, soy, corn, or artificial flavors or preservatives. So it's easy on your dogs tummy and with all the vitamins, minerals, antioxidants, and even omega-6 fatty acids it will make the dog’s skin and coat healthy!
NOM NOM All Life Stages Frozen Dog Food
This is a yummy wet food option for dogs with or without allergies. It's made with Ingredients that are cooked by themselves then mixed in small batches to seal in nutrients and maximize digestibility. As opposed to the hydrolyzed food options where the proteins are broken down to avoid triggering an immune response, this food is simply made with a limited ingredients. Making home cooked meals isn't usually an option for most pet parents so this alternative is an excellent choice.
Wellness Simple Natural Grain Free Limited Ingredient Dry Dog Food
This is another great food for dogs on limited-ingredient diets. If you're dealing with dog skin allergies, you'll love that this food is rich in essential fatty acids and flaxseed. These ingredients are helpful for healthy digestion and their skin and coat!
ROYAL CANIN VETERINARY DIET Hydrolyzed Protein HP Dry Dog Food
This prescribed food is a favorite of veterinarians. Barkley actually was prescribed this to help reset his GI tract after he was sick. It's a dry dog food made with hydrolyzed protein for adult dogs and puppies with food sensitivities. This brand has strict manufacturing procedures to ensure it's safe. It has ingredients that help support the skin's natural protective barrier.
Merrick Grain Free Limited Ingredient Diet
Another of the limited ingredient dog foods that is a grain-free dog food. The fewer ingredients are available in several different flavor options including ones for weight loss. Real chicken is the first ingredient in this food. This food is created (cooked!) in Texas!
PURINA PRO PLAN VETERINARY DIETS HA Hydrolyzed Vegetarian Dry Dog Food
Another of the Hydrolyzed vet prescribed food options. It comes in 3 flavors: chicken, salmon, and vegetarian. This type also has a wet food option! Includes both a single high-quality protein source and single carbohydrate source so it's easily digestible and also very nutritious.
Taste of the Wild Prey Real Meat High Protein Angus Beef Limited Ingredient Dry Dog Food
Switching your dog’s food has its own set of problems. In order to help make it a smooth transition for pets and pet owners alike, it’s best to add in 25% of the new food at a time. Here’s an easy guide to transition your dogs food:
How To Change a Dog’s Food Gradually
| Day | Current food | New food |
| 1 and 2 | 75% | 25% |
| 3 and 4 | 50% | 50% |
| 5 and 6 | 25% | 75% |
| 7 | 0 | 100% |
Please note: We are NOT veterinarians and all advice in this post is purely for informational purposes. Always follow your vet’s medical advice!
