Has your dog been itching and scratching himself all the time? Allergens in his food could be the culprit.
Many of the allergens that afflict people can also trigger allergic reactions in dogs. Pollen and dust are common allergens, but some dogs exhibit allergies to poison ivy, cats, and even their people. Dogs can be allergic to food as well — just like us!
Luckily, there are recipes available catered to canines with dietary restrictions. Below, we’ll share the best food finds for dogs with allergies and ways to tell if your fur friend has a food allergy.
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Best Overall Hypoallergenic Dog Food
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Best Hypoallergenic Kibble for Dogs
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Best Budget-Friendly Hypoallergenic Dog Food
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Best Hypoallergenic Dog Food for Dogs with Allergies
When you are seeking a good food to eliminate your dog’s allergies, you are really looking for a food that does not include the most common allergens (chicken, beef, wheat, eggs, and corn). But you should also avoid foods that contain unnecessary additives and byproducts, which may contain allergens too.
Many such foods are labeled as “hypoallergenic,” but this just means that they contain fewer allergens than “normal” food (the prefix “hypo” means less or fewer).
Obviously, there is a great deal of wiggle room in this definition, so it is important to consider all the ingredients contained in a given dog food, and not just the marketing claims.
Additionally, some good foods for dogs battling allergies feature hydrolyzed proteins, which should (theoretically) prevent allergic reactions from happening at all.
The following products are all generally good choices for dogs with food allergies, although, of course, the best food really depends on your dog’s unique issues.
1. Ollie Fresh Dog Food
About: One of the easiest ways to ensure your floof doesn’t encounter triggers is with a customizable cuisine like Ollie Fresh Dog Food, a tasty option made without corn, soy, or wheat. Complete a survey detailing your dog’s age, body condition, dietary restrictions, and more, and receive fresh, pre-portioned meals catered to your unique pup at your door. There are grain-free and grain-inclusive recipes, all prepared using gentle cooking methods that create a flavorful meat mixture that even picky pups are willing to try.
Features:
- Real meat is always the first ingredient in Ollie recipes
- All recipes are vet-formulated to meet the AAFCO nutrient profile for all life stages
- The amino acid taurine supports canine cardiac health
- Made in the United States with human-grade ingredients
Options: Available in Turkey Dish with Blueberries, Beef Dish with Sweet Potatoes, Chicken Dish with Carrots, Lamb Dish with Cranberries, and Pork Dish with Apples.
Ingredients List
Turkey, butternut squash, turkey livers, oats, lentils...,
spinach, blueberries, kale, tricalcium phosphate, salt, salmon oil, taurine, zinc gluconate, vitamin E supplement, ferrous sulphate, copper amino acid chelate, manganese amino acid chelate, cholecalciferol (vitamin D3) supplement, riboflavin (vitamin B2), thiamine hydrochloride (vitamin B1), pyridoxine hydrochloride (vitamin B6), potassium iodide
Pros
- Customizable to your dog’s individual needs, including avoiding any allergens
- Human-grade ingredients offer top-tier quality
- Good mix of core proteins to choose from
- Flavor earns high barks from most dogs
Cons
- This is one of the most expensive dog food options
- As a fresh dog food, Ollie must be refrigerated
2. Natural Balance L.I.D. Limited Ingredient
About: Natural Balance Limited Ingredient has relatively few ingredients, an important characteristic of allergy-friendly dog foods. This particular recipe uses lamb as the single primary protein source and brown rice as the primary carbohydrate — both of which are rarely implicated in food allergies. This kibble also contains canola oil, which provides inflammation-fighting omega-3 fatty acids that can benefit barkers with skin sensitivities.
Features:
- This limited-ingredient dog food contains no artificial flavors, colors, or preservatives, further reducing the potential to trigger your pet’s allergies
- Added taurine supports canine heart health
- Good source of belly-friendly fiber for healthier digestion
- Made in the United States with global ingredients
Options: Available in Lamb & Brown Rice, Beef & Brown Rice, Chicken & Brown Rice, Duck & Brown Rice, and Salmon & Brown Rice.
Ingredients List
Lamb, Lamb Meal, Brown Rice, Brewers Rice, Rice Bran...,
Brewers Dried Yeast, Canola Oil (Preserved With Mixed Tocopherols), Natural Flavor, Salt, Taurine, Dl-Methionine, Vitamins (Vitamin E Supplement, Ascorbic Acid, Niacin Supplement, Vitamin A Supplement, Thiamine Mononitrate, D-Calcium Pantothenate, Riboflavin Supplement, Pyridoxine Hydrochloride, Vitamin B12 Supplement, Folic Acid, Vitamin D3 Supplement, Biotin), Potassium Chloride, Minerals (Zinc Proteinate, Zinc Sulfate, Ferrous Sulfate, Iron Proteinate, Copper Sulfate, Copper Proteinate, Sodium Selenite, Manganese Sulfate, Manganese Proteinate, Calcium Iodate), Choline Chloride, Citric Acid (Preservative), Mixed Tocopherols (Preservative), Rosemary Extract
Pros
- Limited-ingredient nature ideal for scanning for your pup’s triggers
- Many owners note their dogs digest this food better than similar products, resulting in less canine gas and discomfort
- Great mix of proteins to pick from
- Single-protein recipes ideal for dogs with meat allergies
Cons
- Pricing is on the higher side compared to “regular” dog food
- Some dogs needed enticing to give this food a try
3. Wellness Simple Limited Ingredient
About: Skip your pup’s problem foods while serving deliciousness with Wellness Simple Limited Ingredient, a wet food with grain-free and grain-inclusive recipes. This canned creation is formulated to be easy to digest and skin-friendly, suiting doggos with known food sensitivities. Each recipe stars a single protein, too, preventing reactions to hidden meaty surprises.
Features:
- Pate texture is a breeze for most dogs to eat and can be stuffed into toys for enrichment
- Added vitamins bolster your barker’s immune health
- This particular recipe uses potatoes to fuel your four-footer, fitting dogs with vet-diagnosed grain allergies
- Made in the USA with worldwide ingredients
Options: Available in Turkey & Potato and Lamb & Oatmeal.
Ingredients List
Turkey, Turkey Broth, Potatoes, Ground Flaxseed, Carrageenan...,
Guar Gum, Potassium Chloride, Choline Chloride, Dried Chicory Root, Zinc Proteinate, Iron Proteinate, Magnesium Sulfate, Thiamine Mononitrate, Vitamin E Supplement, Copper Proteinate, Manganese Proteinate, Sodium Selenite, Cobalt Proteinate, Niacin Supplement, d-Calcium Pantothenate, Vitamin A Supplement, Riboflavin Supplement, Biotin, Vitamin B12 Supplement, Potassium Iodide, Pyridoxine Hydrochloride, Vitamin D3 Supplement, Folic Acid
Pros
- Limited ingredient list perfect for avoiding your pup’s problem foods
- Grain-free and grain-inclusive options
- Excellent source of skin-supportive omega-3s
Cons
- Some dogs prefer the brothy bite of stew-style wet dog food
- Contains the somewhat controversial ingredient carrageenan
4. Natural Balance Limited Ingredient Puppy
A puppy kibble supporting skin and coat health with fatty acids and a focused ingredient list free of corn, soy, and wheat.
About: Support your little woofer’s growth without triggering issues with Natural Balance Limited Ingredient Puppy, a crunchy kibble offering complete and balanced nutrition free of common triggers like artificial colors, flavors, and preservatives. This recipe is also made without soy or gluten and features joint-friendly glucosamine. Easily digestible carbohydrate sources like brown rice make for a more blissful belly, while taurine supports heart health.
Features:
- Petite kibblets are easier for small puppy jaws to eat
- Offered in grain-free and grain-inclusive options
- Rich in skin-supportive omega-3s, including DHA, a fatty acid that boosts brain health
- Made in the United States with ingredients from global sources
Options: Available in Salmon & Brown Rice, Chicken & Brown Rice, Lamb & Brown Rice, and Duck & Potato.
Ingredients List
Salmon, Menhaden Fish Meal, Brown Rice, Brewers Rice, Rice Bran...,
Canola Oil (Preserved With Mixed Tocopherols), Oat Groats, Flaxseed, Brewers Dried Yeast, Natural Flavor, Salt, Salmon Oil (Preserved With Mixed Tocopherols), Dl-Methionine, Taurine, Vitamins (Vitamin E Supplement, Ascorbic Acid, Niacin Supplement, Vitamin A Supplement, Menadione Sodium Bisulfite Complex, Thiamine Mononitrate, D-Calcium Pantothenate, Riboflavin Supplement, Pyridoxine Hydrochloride, Vitamin B12 Supplement, Folic Acid, Biotin), Potassium Chloride, Minerals (Zinc Proteinate, Zinc Sulfate, Ferrous Sulfate, Iron Proteinate, Copper Sulfate, Copper Proteinate, Sodium Selenite, Manganese Sulfate, Manganese Proteinate, Calcium Iodate), Choline Chloride, L-Threonine, Citric Acid (Preservative), Mixed Tocopherols (Preservative), Rosemary Extract
Pros
- Limited-ingredient nature great for dogs with known food allergies
- Packed with beneficial omega-3s like DHA
- Most dogs give the taste a tail wag of approval
Cons
- More novel protein options are necessary for puppies with meat allergies
- Pricing is on the higher side, though still somewhat reasonable for a LID dog food
5. Blue Buffalo Basics Skin & Stomach Care Senior
About: Support your mature mutt’s needs without triggering allergies with Blue Buffalo Basics Skin & Stomach Care Senior. Featuring wholesome grains like oatmeal and brown rice paired with nutritious complex carbs like potatoes and peas, this fiber-rich food keeps your canine content between meals and allows for easier digestion. Probiotics chip in to help, too, with a balanced blend of strains promoting gut health and regularity.
Features:
- Real turkey is the top ingredient
- Omega-3s support your senior’s skin and coat and battle inflammation, with DHA especially helping with cognitive function
- Antioxidants give your barker’s immune system a boost
- Made in the USA with quality global ingredients
Options: Only available in one flavor (Turkey & Potato)
Ingredients List
Deboned Turkey, Oatmeal, Brown Rice, Potatoes, Peas...,
Turkey Meal, Pea Fiber, Natural Flavor, Pea Protein, Canola Oil (source of Omega 6 Fatty Acids), Fish Oil (source of DHA-Docosahexaenoic Acid), Calcium Carbonate, Dicalcium Phosphate, Potassium Chloride, Choline Chloride, Pumpkin, Dried Chicory Root, Direct Dehydrated Alfalfa Pellets, Flaxseed (source of Omega 3 Fatty Acids), Alfalfa Nutrient Concentrate, Salt, Taurine, Vitamin E Supplement, Preserved with Mixed Tocopherols, L-Ascorbyl-2-Polyphosphate (source of Vitamin C), DL-Methionine, Glucosamine Hydrochloride, Zinc Amino Acid Chelate, Zinc Sulfate, Vegetable juice for color, Ferrous Sulfate, Iron Amino Acid Chelate, Blueberries, Cranberries, Barley Grass, Parsley, Turmeric, Dried Kelp, Yucca Schidigera Extract, Niacin (Vitamin B3), Calcium Pantothenate (Vitamin B5), Copper Sulfate, L-Lysine, Biotin (Vitamin B7), Vitamin A Supplement, Copper Amino Acid Chelate, Manganese Sulfate, Manganese Amino Acid Chelate, Thiamine Mononitrate (Vitamin B1), Riboflavin (Vitamin B2), Vitamin D3 Supplement, Vitamin B12 Supplement, Pyridoxine Hydrochloride (Vitamin B6), Calcium Iodate, Dried Yeast, Dried Enterococcus faecium fermentation product, Dried Lactobacillus acidophilus fermentation product, Dried Aspergillus niger fermentation extract, Dried Trichoderma longibrachiatum fermentation extract, Dried Bacillus subtilis fermentation extract, Folic Acid (Vitamin B9), Sodium Selenite, Oil of Rosemary.
Pros
- Contains senior-friendly finds like glucosamine, omega-3s and probiotics
- One of the rare grain-inclusive limited-ingredient dog foods
- Single protein source ideal for doggos with known restrictions
Cons
- Pricing is steeper than everyday senior recipes
- Some owners prefer pea-free recipes
6. Diamond Care Sensitive Skin Formula
About: Prevent painful skin reactions without breaking your budget with Diamond Care Sensitive Skin Formula, a kibble with a limited ingredient list designed for sensitive systems. Peas fuel your pup in this grain-free recipe while remaining easy to digest and offering plenty of fiber. Thanks to salmon oil, ample omega-3s are also present.
Features:
- Glucosamine gives your Fido’s joints a helping paw
- Hydrolyzed salmon offers fishy goodness without triggering reactions
- Probiotics promote healthier doggo digestion
- Made in America with globally sourced ingredients
Options: Available in Sensitive Skin and Sensitive Stomach formulas.
Ingredients List
Peas, Pea Flour, Hydrolyzed Salmon, Canola Oil (Preserved With Mixed Tocopherols), Flaxseed...,
Natural Salmon Flavor, Tomato Pomace, Salmon Oil, Dicalcium Phosphate, Calcium Carbonate, Dl-Methionine, Choline Chloride, Taurine, Dried Lactobacillus Plantarum Fermentation Product, Dried Bacillus Subtilis Fermentation Product, Dried Lactobacillus Acidophilus Fermentation Product, Dried Enterococcus Faecium Fermentation Product, Dried Bifidobacterium Animalis Fermentation Product, Vitamin E Supplement, Iron Proteinate, Zinc Proteinate, Copper Proteinate, Ferrous Sulfate, Zinc Sulfate, Manganese Sulfate, Copper Sulfate, Potassium Iodide, Thiamine Mononitrate, Manganese Proteinate, Ascorbic Acid, Vitamin A Supplement, Biotin, Niacin, Calcium Pantothenate, Sodium Selenite, Pyridoxine Hydrochloride, Vitamin B12 Supplement, Riboflavin, Vitamin D3 Supplement, Folic Acid.
Pros
- More affordably priced than most allergy-friendly dog foods
- Limited-ingredient recipe is a good match for pups with known restrictions
- Loaded with pawesome perks like skin-nourishing omega-3s and probiotics
Cons
- Grain-free food isn’t a great match for every dog
- Some dogs weren’t big fans of the flavor
7. Royal Canin Veterinary Diet Hydrolyzed Protein
An American-made hypoallergenic food designed for dogs with protein allergies.
About: Help your allergy-prone pup dine without skin or tummy drama with Royal Canin Veterinary Diet Hydrolyzed Protein, an expert-formulated food for dogs with known dietary restrictions. Hydrolyzed soy protein nourishes your pup without triggering meat allergies, while a single source of carbohydrates is easier to digest while still fibrous enough for firm poops.
Features:
- Antioxidants support your pup’s immune system
- Omega-3s keep your canine’s skin and coat looking and feeling great
- Doesn’t contain common proteins behind allergies like chicken or beef
- Made in the USA with ingredients from trusted global sources
Options: Available in Hydrolyzed Protein, Hydrolyzed Protein Small Dog, and Canned Hydrolyzed Protein Loaf.
Ingredients List
Brewers Rice, Hydrolyzed Soy Protein, Chicken Fat, Natural Flavors, Dried Plain Beet Pulp...,
Vegetable Oil, Sodium Aluminosilicate, Monocalcium Phosphate, Fish Oil, Calcium Carbonate, Fructooligosaccharides, Potassium Chloride, Salt, Dl-Methionine, Vitamins[Dl-Alpha Tocopherol Acetate (Source Of Vitamin E), Niacin Supplement, L-Ascorbyl-2-Polyphosphate (Source Of Vitamin C), D-Calcium Pantothenate, Biotin, Pyridoxine Hydrochloride (Vitamin B6), Riboflavin Supplement, Thiamine Mononitrate (Vitamin B1), Vitamin A Acetate, Vitamin B12 Supplement, Folic Acid, Vitamin D3 Supplement], Choline Chloride, Taurine, Gla Safflower Oil, Marigold Extract (Tagetes Erecta L.), Trace Minerals[Zinc Proteinate, Zinc Oxide, Manganese Proteinate, Manganous Oxide, Copper Sulfate, Ferrous Sulfate, Sodium Selenite, Copper Proteinate, Calcium Iodate], Magnesium Oxide, Rosemary Extract, Preserved With Mixed Tocopherols And Citric Acid
Pros
- Hydrolyzed protein specially formulated to avoid triggering a reaction in pups with meat allergies
- Many pawrents report an improvement in skin and coat appearance after switching to this food
- Single carb source and focused ingredient list ideal for bypassing allergens
Cons
- As a veterinary diet, a prescription from your vet is required to purchase
- No bones about it; this food is pricey
8. NUTRO Limited Ingredient Diet Grain Free Venison Meal & Sweet Potato
About: Nutro Limited Ingredient Diet Venison features venison meal as the #1 ingredient and zero grains. Venison is the sole animal protein, making this a fantastic option for dogs who are allergic to most other animal proteins. Nutro Limited Ingredient Diet (LID) is made with 10 key ingredients or less, keeping ingredient lists as short as possible and very manageable for owners of dogs with allergies doing an elimination diet. This recipe is also free of corn, soy, and wheat.
Features:
- Includes no chicken, beef, or dairy protein
- Rich in omega-3 fatty acids for supporting your sniffer’s skin and coat
- Doesn’t include artificial flavors, colors, and preservatives
- Made in the United States with non-GMO ingredients from trusted global suppliers
Options: Available in Venison Meal & Sweet Potato, Duck & Lentils, Lamb & Sweet Potato, Salmon & Lentils, Small Breed Lamb & Sweet Potato, and Large Breed Lamb & Sweet Potato.
Ingredients List
Venison Meal, Dried Potatoes, Lentils, Chickpeas, Canola Oil (Preserved With Mixed Tocopherols)...,
Dried Sweet Potato, Potato Starch, Potato Protein, Sunflower Oil (Preserved With Mixed Tocopherols), Natural Flavor, Dehydrated Alfalfa Meal, Dried Plain Beet Pulp, Potassium Chloride, Salt, Choline Chloride, DL-Methionine, Mixed Tocopherols and Citric Acid (preservatives), Taurine, Zinc Sulfate, Niacin Supplement, Biotin, Vitamin E Supplement, Iron Amino Acid Chelate, D-Calcium Pantothenate, Selenium Yeast, Riboflavin Supplement (Vitamin B2), Copper Amino Acid Chelate, Vitamin B12 Supplement, Pyridoxine Hydrochloride (Vitamin B6), Manganese Amino Acid Chelate, Vitamin A Supplement, Thiamine Mononitrate (Vitamin B1), Vitamin D3 Supplement, Folic Acid, Rosemary Extract.
Pros
- Venison is a novel protein that suits sniffers allergic to common finds like chicken
- Single-ingredient recipe ideal for dogs with multiple meat allergies
- Most dogs give the taste a tail wag of approval
Cons
- Grain-free dog food isn’t a fit for every dog
- Venison is a pricey protein, so this kibble is on the expensive side
9. Zignature Kangaroo Limited Ingredient Formula
About: Zignature Kangaroo is a limited-ingredient formula with kangaroo as the sole animal protein, offering plenty of muscle-building nutrients in a lean, digestion-friendly form. It leaves out common allergen ingredients, being chicken, corn, wheat gluten, soy, and potato-free. This recipe uses low glycemic carbohydrates like chickpeas instead to promote stable blood sugar and keep your canine satisfied.
Features:
- Blend of gut-friendly probiotics support canine digestion, which is an area of concern with many allergy-prone pups
- Added taurine promotes canine heart health by keeping potentially dangerous deficiencies at bay
- Omega-3 fatty acids combat inflammation and nourish your pup’s skin and coat
- Made in the United States with internationally sourced ingredients
Options: Offered in 17 recipes with ample novel proteins, including Kangaroo, Duck, and Venison.
Ingredients List
Kangaroo, Kangaroo Meal, Peas, Chickpeas, Pea Flour...,
Sunflower Oil (preserved with Citric Acid), Flaxseed, Red Lentils, Green Lentils, Dehydrated Alfalfa Meal, Pea Protein, Natural Flavors, Salt, Minerals (Zinc Proteinate, Iron Proteinate, Copper Proteinate, Manganese Proteinate, Cobalt Proteinate, Selenium Yeast), Choline Chloride, Potassium Chloride, Calcium Carbonate, Taurine, Vitamins (Vitamin A, Acetate, Vitamin D3 Supplement, Vitamin E Supplement, Niacin, d‐Calcium Pantothenate, Thiamine Mononitrate, Pyridoxine Hydrochloride, Riboflavin Supplement, Folic Acid, Biotin, Vitamin B12 Supplement), Lactic Acid, Calcium Iodate, Preserved With Mixed Tocopherols, L-Carnitine.
Pros
- Kangaroo is a novel protein, suiting sniffers with allergies to common proteins like chicken
- Most dogs are big fans of the flavor
- Several other novel protein options like goat and venison
Cons
- Grain-free dog food isn’t a great fit for every dog, especially pet parents concerned about its potential ties to dilated cardiomyopathy
- Pricing is on the higher side
Why Dog Food Allergies Are So Difficult to Deal With
Food allergies are a tough issue to crack in canines.
Treating your dog’s environmental allergies typically involves reducing your pet’s exposure to the offending allergen, and then starting them on a therapy to gradually desensitize their body to the substance.
Although there’s no guarantee of success, these strategies can help alleviate the symptoms of many canine allergy sufferers.
But food allergies present an especially challenging problem. After all, you can’t very well reduce your pet’s exposure to food – at least not for more than 12 to 24 hours at a time.
Accordingly, food allergies must be treated by altering your pet’s diet in very specific ways to help eliminate the allergens, without neglecting your dog’s nutritional needs.
Symptoms of a Food Allergy in Dogs
Dogs suffering from food allergies often exhibit a collection of relatively consistent symptoms. However, because these symptoms can mimic the symptoms of other illnesses, it’s wise to bring your dog to the vet for an evaluation if you suspect a food allergy is involved.
Fortunately, while food allergies are troubling and frustrating problems to deal with, they are rarely life-threatening as they are for humans – so that’s a plus!
Whereas humans often suffer from a swollen throat or difficulty in breathing after consuming an allergen, dogs most frequently suffer skin ailments as the result of allergic reactions.
Dogs express allergies a bit differently than us. It may seem natural to humans that an environmental/inhalant allergy results in sneezing, while a food allergy results in vomiting or a swollen throat.
However, most dogs exhibit nearly all their symptoms through itchy, irritated skin, and possibly chronic ear infections.
Some of the most common symptoms of food allergies in dogs include:
- Itching, especially centered around the ears or feet
- Constant paw-licking or paw-biting behavior
- Hair loss
- Chronic skin conditions
- Chronic ear infections
Other, less common symptoms that may also signify a food allergy include:
- Poor growth in young dogs
- Wheezing
- Coughing
- Sneezing
- Excessive gas
- Vomiting
- Diarrhea
Temporal factors can also provide clues to your dog’s condition. Because dogs are typically exposed to food-born allergens on a consistent basis, their symptoms don’t wax and wane as they would with exposure to an environmental allergen, such as pollen, dust or dander (which are more common during certain seasons).
Dog Breeds That Frequently Display Food Allergies
Food allergies can afflict dogs of any breed or combination thereof. However, they appear to be more common among some breeds than others.
Some of the breeds that commonly suffer from food allergies include:
- Lhasa apso
- West Highland white terrier
- Dachshund
- Cocker spaniel
- Boxer
- American pit bull terrier
- Dalmatian
- German shepherd
- Labrador retriever
- Golden retriever
- Miniature schnauzer
If you own one of these breeds, be especially alert for signs of a food allergy.
Common Dietary Allergens for Dogs
Allergies are caused by proteins that over-stimulate the immune system.
The most common meat allergies for dogs are:
Beef, chicken, lamb, fish, and pork are all dog food meat ingredients that have been known to cause allergic reactions in dogs.
You’ll notice that they’re some of the most popular ingredients in dog food, and since exposure to these ingredients is common, they’ve become common allergens.
Other common dog food allergens that are not meat-based include:
- Dairy
- Corn
- Wheat
- Soy
- Yeast
As you can see from this list, allergens aren’t only caused by foods humans think of as “protein sources.” In reality, most foods – even vegetables and grains – contain some proteins. Accordingly, the proteins in things like wheat, soy and corn can also elicit allergic reactions.
Unfortunately, these are all common ingredients in commercial foods, and unless you actively work to avoid these ingredients, your pooch will likely be chomping them up in her kibble.
When your dog has a food allergy, your dog’s digestive system fails to digest some of the proteins in the allergy-inducing food. When these whole proteins contact specialized receptors in the intestines, the body treats them as dangerous invaders.
This causes the immune system to launch a disproportionate response, which causes the side effects associated with a food allergy.
Grains and Bugs: The Gross Connection
Some grains, such as cereal grains, also have the potential to cause allergic reactions in dogs. Interestingly, this isn’t necessarily due to the grains themselves — in some cases, it’s a result of the bugs that get into these grains.
Yes, bugs get into grain supplies on occasion. Sorry to share such gross news, but it is the truth.
Accordingly, grain-eating bug carcasses and their droppings can be found in some dog foods. And since grain mites are close relatives of dust mites (which are common allergic triggers for humans), it’s no shock that the grain mites that wind up in your pooch’s food and possibly be the culprit of allergic reactions.
Whether it’s the actual grains or the bugs within the grains that are at fault, grains occasionally cause dogs to have allergic reactions. It should be noted though that there are plenty of great healthy grains for dogs that don’t usually cause any issues — the majority of dogs digest grains without issue.
Distinguishing Between Food Allergies vs. Simple Food Intolerance
In addition to recognizing the possible signs of a dog food allergy, it’s also important to distinguish between true food allergies versus a simple intolerance.
When your dog has an allergy, it means that your dog’s immune system is overreacting to a normally harmless substance (called an allergen). Intolerance simply suggests your dog has trouble digesting something, in which case switching to a dog food for dogs with sensitive stomach may provide a quick fix.
You should always consult your veterinarian before self-diagnosing your dog’s food allergies or intolerances. However, in general, dogs that have true food allergies will generally exhibit skin problems, while dogs with a food intolerance will just display intestinal upset. This commonly takes the form of gas, bloating, vomiting, or diarrhea.
Some food allergies may also cause digestive upset, but skin conditions are almost always the most prevalent problem.
It’s very common for dogs to be intolerant of things like dairy products (in fact most adult mammals lack the necessary biochemistry to properly digest the whey protein found in dairy – humans capable of doing so are the exception!) and fatty foods.
While dairy and high-fat foods often cause digestive issues in canines, many pooches can eat one but not the other. For example, my Rottweiler is capable of digesting fast-food quantities of fat (just like her daddy), but a teaspoon of ice cream can make her hurl.
In an ideal world, you should probably avoid giving either type of food to your dog, regardless of the different biological factors at play.
Your dog may appear to take stomach ailments in stride, but you can bet they aren’t fun and they often lead to further problems.
What Causes a Dog to Develop a Food Allergy?
Unfortunately, while researchers understand that food allergies are the result of an immune system overreaction, they do not understand what makes some dogs more vulnerable to the food allergy phenomenon.
Some believe that food allergies are the result of a genetic anomaly (as they are thought to be in humans) – something your pup is simply born with.
Others believe that food allergies are environmental – that they happen as a result of what your dog is fed and exposed to.
The fact that some breeds and bloodlines appear to be more prone to food allergies than others supports the genetic argument, but the fact that dogs from similar regions often exhibit similar allergies supports the environmental hypothesis.
Despite the many questions surrounding food allergies, researchers are pretty sure of one thing: Allergies occur in response to exposure to a given allergen, and they often take some time to develop.
Dogs do not often show signs of an allergy to a food the first time they consume it; symptoms appear after repeated exposure.
Some veterinarians recommend limiting the number of proteins you offer your dog over the course of her life. This will hopefully limit the number of allergies that develop, and it can make treatment much easier if a food allergy ever occurs.
For example, a dog fed lamb, beef and chicken throughout her life will have been exposed to these various foods, which could cause them all to spark an immune response. This would drastically limit your options for a safe food source.
While a dog fed a vast array of protein sources may be at risk for several different allergens, by contrast, a dog raised solely on chicken can continue to be offered a variety of different protein sources to which she has never been exposed.
Are Antibiotics At Play?
Some veterinarians suspect that antibiotics administered early in a pup’s life may also lead to allergies.
As a potential solution, they recommend providing young dogs with a probiotic supplement to help bolster healthy gut flora.
However, this proposed treatment hasn’t yet been investigated thoroughly in dogs, and human-based research into this area has yielded mixed results, so there’s no guarantee of a solution quite yet.
In all likelihood, the answer will eventually turn out to be a combination of factors, but only time (and more research) will reveal the answer.
When Do Dogs Develop Allergies?
No matter the case, dog food allergies can manifest at any point in your pup’s life.
You may, for example, feed your dog chicken-based food for most of her life, only to discover that at some point, she begins exhibiting signs of an allergy to the food. And because the proteins contained in chicken are very similar to those in turkey, she may become allergic to all varieties of poultry.
How Likely Is It That My Dog Has a Food Allergy?
While allergies among dogs aren’t unusual, food allergies are somewhat uncommon.
According to Doctors Foster & Smith, food allergies account for just 10% of all allergies seen in dogs. They’re the #3 most common form of dog allergies, behind flea bite allergies and atopy. Make sure to investigate these possibilities before moving forward with your food allergy hypothesis.
The truth is that your dog is much more likely to suffer from a different kind of allergy rather than a food allergy.
Treating Dog Food Allergies: What Is an Elimination-Challenge Diet?
When it comes to figuring out exactly what ingredients are messing with your pup, the elimination-challenge diet is generally the best option.
Veterinarians often recommend an elimination-challenge diet for patients suspected of having a food allergy. However, elimination-challenge diets are useful not only for confirming suspicions but also for treating the problem.
An elimination diet involves eliminating certain ingredients from your dog’s diet in order to detect which food is causing an allergic reaction.
How Does An Elimination-Challenge Diet Work?
The principle behind an elimination-challenge diet is pretty simple, but implementing it requires some explanation. We’ll describe the basic steps below but understand that you should always work with your vet to devise the proper procedure for your pet.
Step 1: Eliminating Allergens
You begin implementing an elimination-challenge diet by trying to remove any potential allergens that may be present in your dog’s food.
This generally means switching to a food that features a novel protein source, like:
Kangaroo, bison, pheasant, as well as venison, are generally considered novel protein sources. Few dogs are exposed to these food sources as a matter of practice, so allergies are unlikely to have developed in response to them.
Other recommended hypoallergenic meat protein sources include:
- Alligator
- Emu
- Yak
- Millet
A good elimination-challenge food usually draws its carbohydrate content from brown rice, sweet potato, or even possibly white potato, which rarely cause allergy problems for dogs the way wheat or corn may.
Additives, artificial flavors, yeast, and other supplements should also be kept to a minimum, to help reduce the chances of overstimulating the immune system.
Hopefully, the restricted diet will cause your dog’s symptoms to disappear (although it may take several weeks before this occurs). This will allow her to get the nutrition she needs, without suffering from a constant allergic reaction. This can help your dog start to feel better and heal.
When practicing an elimination diet, the following requirements must be met:
- The dog must be fed a unique protein and carbohydrate source that the dog has not been previously exposed to.
- The dog must be kept on this diet for at least 12 weeks.
- Only the special diet and water can be consumed—nothing else! This means no rawhides, chews, treats, flavored toothpaste, or flavored medication.
- Keep an especially alert eye on your pooch during this time. Don’t allow her to sneak into the trash or start chewing up something gross in the backyard, otherwise the process must be reset.
- Don’t let your pooch in the dining room during meal times. Even a few crumbs dropped by a messy kiddo can force you to restart your dog’s elimination diet.
You’ll need to be vigilant, but all the work will be worth it when you finally know exactly what ingredients your pup is allergic to, allowing you to pick the best food for their needs and provide a better quality of life.
What if you have other dogs? Ideally, the easiest way to conduct the elimination diet when you own more than one dog is to do the diet with all the dogs. If that’s not possible, feed the pooch you suspect of having allergies in a completely separate room from the other dogs.
After several weeks, it’s time for the next step: the challenge portion of the diet can begin.
Step 2: Reintroduction
If your dog begins to show a reduction or elimination of allergy symptoms after the 12 weeks, it’s time to reintroduce those problematic foods you suspect of causing your dog’s allergies.
This may seem counter-intuitive since your dog is finally allergy-free. However, the reintroduction of suspected allergy-causing foods is required to confirm your suspicions.
During this portion of the treatment, you slowly add back one food item that you suspect might be an allergen. If no change occurs with the first added food item, you can add another, one at a time. When one of the food items cause allergic reactions symptoms flare back up, you know which ingredients are to blame.
Then avoid those foods completely.
It’s also important to remember that many dogs are allergic to more than one type of protein. This can complicate your efforts to determine the cause of your dog’s allergies. You may need to test several ingredients.
Even with all that work, permanent safety is no guarantee—your dog may eventually develop an allergic reaction to the new protein source after being fed it for a long period of time.
What About Blood Testing?
Elimination diets are a ton of work, so it’s no wonder owners often look to blood testing as a possible immediate solution to discovering what ails their pup.
Unfortunately, blood testing can’t provide an accurate diagnosis for your dog’s food allergies.
The good news is that intradermal skin testing is often helpful for diagnosing allergies. If you suspect your dog is suffering from allergies but are unsure what the cause is, intradermal skin testing is an option worth considering.
Since inhalant allergies are much more common than food allergies, skin testing may solve your issue.
What Exactly is a Hypoallergenic Dog Food?
Technically, the term “hypoallergenic dog food” is a bit misleading.
There is no such thing as a universal hypoallergenic dog food—it’s mainly a marketing term. This is because one type of dog food could be considered hypoallergenic for an individual dog, but not another.
For a dog allergic to chicken, any food that does not contain chicken would be considered hypoallergenic for that individual canine.
However, another dog may be allergic to pork rather than chicken. In this case, chicken-free dog food would not be “hypoallergenic” for that particular dog.
Often, manufacturers label foods as “hypoallergenic” when the recipe leaves out the most common allergens. However, because common allergens can be avoided through various methods, there are several types of hypoallergenic dog foods.
The main forms of hypoallergenic dog foods include:
- Limited Ingredient Diet: Limited ingredient diets contain fewer ingredients than standard dog food. Because of the lower number of ingredients, it’s often easier to narrow down which ingredients are causing your dog problems.
- Novel Protein Diet: Novel protein diets introduce a unique protein that isn’t commonly found in most traditional dog foods. Some popular novel proteins (as noted above) include kangaroo, pheasant, venison, and bison.
- Hydrolyzed Protein Diet: Hydrolyzed protein dog food diets break up the protein and carbohydrate molecules down into such small sizes that they won’t trigger an allergic reaction in your dog.
- Prescription Diet: These specialized diets prescribed by veterinarians are specially designed to be hypoallergenic and can only be obtained through a veterinarian’s office.
- Homemade Food: Homemade food is often popular when conducting an elimination diet, due to the control owners have over proteins and ingredients. While great for identifying your dog’s trouble ingredients, homemade food isn’t an ideal long term solution, as it’s
difficultvirtually impossible for owners to craft a properly balanced diet. That being said, if you work with your vet and use a homemade dog food nutrient supplement pack, you can make some fantastic, nutritionally-appropriate hypoallergenic dog food.
Note that dog food can fit into more than one of these categories. For example, a hypoallergenic dog food relying on a novel protein source can also have limited ingredients.
Remember that you should look for single-source novel proteins and single-source carbohydrates (so for example, you would not want a food that uses pheasant as well as fish, or sweet potato as well as rice).
Common combinations include:
- Venison & Potato
- Duck & Peas
- Salmon & Sweet Potato
- Kangaroo & Brown Rice
Note: Lamb was once considered a novel protein, but has now become more common in dog foods. Still, if you haven’t fed your dog lamb before, it could be classified as a novel protein for your pooch.
Is Raw Food the Answer to Dog Food Allergies?
Some owners consider switching to a raw diet to alleviate their dog’s food allergies.
While it is true that some raw proteins may have a slightly different configuration than cooked proteins, and these may prevent them from triggering an allergic reaction, no evidence has been collected yet to support such a conclusion.
In addition to the lack of substantial evidence for alleviating allergies, raw diets have a number of drawbacks that limit their appeal.
In fact, both the U.S. Food and Drug Administration and the American Veterinary Medical Association discourage pet owners from feeding raw meat to their pets.
The reasons for these recommendations are varied, but one of the most troubling problems is that raw meats often harbor a variety of bacteria, including Salmonella spp., E. coli and Clostridium spp., among others.
While homemade and raw diets sound all well and good, it’s actually quite difficult to compose a homemade or raw formula that will match the nutritional profile of a commercial dog food. This can lead to problems that are often worse than the allergy.
Homemade diets must be balanced with the right vitamins, supplements, and minerals, and that is exceedingly difficult for the average owner to accomplish.
If you do choose to go forward with a permanent homemade dog food, make sure to consult a veterinary nutritionist.
Generally speaking, it is wise to provide your dog with a nutritionally balanced, bacteria-free, commercially prepared, hypoallergenic diet if your dog suffers from food allergies.
Don’t Forget to Use Hypoallergenic Treats Too
Even though they don’t make up a huge percentage of your pup’s diet, treats can also trigger allergic reactions. Many treats are made from potential allergens, such as corn, wheat, chicken, pork or beef, and these could undermine your efforts to eliminate allergens from your dog’s diet.
Fortunately, there are several hypoallergenic dog treats on the market, which are made of ingredients that are unlikely to trigger allergic reactions, such as pumpkin, sweet potato and duck.
Dietary allergies are often frustrating problems for both you and your pup, but they aren’t the end of the world. Work to determine the causal allergen and find a dog food that does not include it. With a little hard work, determination and perseverance, you can probably find a dog food that eliminates your dog’s itchy skin.
Does your dog have a food allergy? We’d love to hear your experiences and opinions on the matter. Let us know what dog foods have worked and which ones have not. Your experiences may even help someone else treat their dog’s food allergies.
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