best dog food for skin allergies philippines
Best Dog Foods for Allergies
Farmers Pork is one of 3 fresh recipes included in our review of the The Farmers Dog product line.
The Farmers Dog pork recipe gets the bulk of its animal protein from fresh pork. Our dry matter label analysis reveals the recipe contains 36% protein, 28% fat and 28% estimated carbs which produces a fat-to-protein ratio of about 78%.
A top pick. Enthusiastically recommended.
See all 3 available recipes
Read our review of the full The Farmers Dog Food (Fresh) range here
Main Ingredients Pork, sweet potato, potato, green beans, cauliflower Type Grain-free Protein Percentage 36% AAFCO Standards All Life Stages Best For All dogs including large breed puppies Pork Potluck is one of 4 fresh human-grade recipes studied in our review of the Nom Nom cooked-then-frozen product line.
Nom Nom Pork Potluck derives the bulk of its meat protein from fresh ground pork. Dry matter label analysis reveals a wet recipe containing 28% protein, 20% fat and 44% estimated carbs with a fat-to-protein ratio of about 71%.
If youve ever wished you could feed your dog a fresh, home-cooked meal but you didnt know how to make sure it was nutritionally complete and balanced then Nom Nom makes a smart choice.
The first time you visit Nom Noms website, youll answer a few questions about your dogs age, weight, breed and suspected allergies. Nom Nom will then create a customized, single protein diet designed to keep your dog at optimal weight.
Expertly designed by Dr. Justin Shmalberg, a board-certified veterinary nutritionist (DACVN).
An excellent limited ingredient recipe and a solid place to start an at-home elimination diet. Enthusiastically recommended.
See all 4 available recipes
For More Choices: See our Best Fresh-Cooked Dog Food page
Read our review of the full Nom Nom Dog Food (Fresh) range here
Main Ingredients Ground pork, russet potatoes, green beans, squash, kale Type Grain-free Protein Percentage 28% AAFCO Standards All life stages Best For Adults + puppies (including large breeds) Turkey and Potato Formula is one of 6 recipes included in our review of the Wellness Simple Limited Ingredient dry product line.
Wellness Simple Limited Ingredient Diet Turkey and Potato derives the majority of its animal protein from fresh turkey and turkey meal. Our dry matter label analysis reveals the recipe contains 29% protein, 14% fat and 49% estimated carbs yielding a fat-to-protein ratio of about 46%.
An excellent limited ingredient option for adult dogs with food and skin sensitivities. Easily recommended.
See all 6 available recipes
Read our review of the full Wellness Simple Limited Ingredient Dog Food (Dry) range here
Main Ingredients Deboned turkey, turkey meal, potatoes, peas, dried ground potatoes Type Grain-free Protein Percentage 29% AAFCO Standards Maintenance Best For Adults only (not for puppies) Raised Right Beef is one of 11 fresh recipes included in our review of the Raised Right product line.
Raised Right Beef derives the lions share of its animal protein from fresh beef. Dry matter label analysis reveals the recipe contains 61% protein, 24% fat and 8% estimated carbs delivering a fat-to-protein ratio of about 39%.
One of the best fresh, human-grade dog foods on the market. Unusually wide recipe selection can be a major plus especially for picky eaters. Highly recommended.
See all 11 available recipes
Read our review of the full Raised Right Dog Food (Fresh) range here
Main Ingredients Beef, beef heart, carrots, beef liver, cranberries Type Grain-free (carrots, cranberries) Protein Percentage 61% AAFCO Standards Maintenance Best For Adult dogs only Turkey Patties is one of 6 frozen raw recipes included in our review of the We Feed Raw product line.
This We Feed Raw Turkey Patties derives most of its animal protein from turkey. Dry matter label analysis reveals the recipe contains 49% protein, 25% fat and 18% estimated carbs producing a fat-to-protein ratio of about 52%.
High quality ingredients. Highly recommended.
See all 6 available recipes
Read our review of the full We Feed Raw Dog Food (Raw Frozen) range here
Main Ingredients Turkey Tails, turkey gizzards, turkey wings, turkey liver, WFR vitamin + mineral mix Type Grain-free Protein Percentage 49% AAFCO Standards All Life Stages Sample buyer review...
Read more buyer reviews at WeFeedRaw.com"I have been feeding my dogs We Feed Raw for 3 years now and they love their food, their coats are always shining. They are active, happy, healthy dogs."
Real Salmon and Sweet Potato Recipe is one of 10 formulas included in our review of the Canidae Grain-Free Pure dry product line.
Canidae Grain-Free Pure Real Salmon and Sweet Potato gets the majority of its meat protein from fresh salmon, as well as salmon and menhaden fish meals. Our dry matter label analysis reveals the recipe contains 36% protein, 20% fat and 36% estimated carbs creating a fat-to-protein ratio of about 56%.
A high-quality recipe ideal for adult dogs.
See all 10 available recipes
Read our review of the full Canidae Grain Free Pure Dog Food (Dry) range here
Main Ingredients Salmon, salmon meal, menhaden fish meal, sweet potatoes, peas Type Grain-free Protein Percentage 36% AAFCO Standards Maintenance Best For Adults only (not for puppies) Angus Beef Recipe is one of 3 dry formulas included in our review of the Taste of the Wild Prey Limited Ingredient product line.
Taste of the Wild Prey Angus Beef receives most of its animal protein from fresh beef. Dry matter label analysis reveals the recipe contains 30% protein, 17% fat and 45% estimated carbs which yields a fat-to-protein ratio of about 57%.
Highly recommended.
See all 3 available recipes
Read our review of the full Taste of the Wild Prey Dog Food (Dry) range here
Main Ingredients Beef, lentils, tomato pomace, chicken fat, natural flavor Type Grain-free Protein Percentage 30% AAFCO Standards All life stages Best For All adults + puppies Chicken Flavor is one of 2 recipes included in our review of the Purina Pro Plan Veterinary Diets HA Dog Food dry product line.
Purina Pro Plan Veterinary Diets HA Chicken Flavor gets most of its protein from hydrolyzed soy protein isolate. Our dry matter label analysis reveals the recipe contains 20% protein, 11% fat and 61% estimated carbs which creates a fat-to-protein ratio of about 53%.
An exceptional selection for sensitive dogs. Highly recommended.
See all available recipes
Read our review of the full Purina Pro Plan Veterinary Diets HA Dog Food (Dry) range here
Main Ingredients Corn starch, hydrolyzed soy protein isolate, partially hydrogenated canola oil preserved with TBHQ, coconut oil, powdered cellulose Type Grain-free Protein Percentage 20% AAFCO Standards Maintenance Best For Adults only (not for puppies) Real Turkey and Brown Rice is one of 4 wet recipes included in our review of the Merrick Limited Ingredient Diet wet product line.
This Merrick Limited Ingredient formula derives the bulk of its meat protein from fresh deboned turkey. Our dry matter label analysis reveals the recipe contains 36% protein, 27% fat and 28% estimated carbs which results in a fat-to-protein ratio of about 75%.
A balanced, wet alternative to dry kibble. A practical option for those seeking to pin down a possible offending ingredient. Plus its available in 4 other featured proteins. Highly recommended.
See all 4 available recipes
Read our review of the full Merrick Limited Ingredient Diet Dog Food (Canned) range here
Main Ingredients Deboned turkey, turkey broth, turkey liver, brown rice, oatmeal Type Grain-inclusive (brown rice, oatmeal) Protein Percentage 36% AAFCO Standards Maintenance Best For Adults only (not for puppies) Royal Canin Veterinary Diets Hydrolyzed Protein Adult HP is one of 4 recipes included in our review of the Royal Canin Veterinary Diets Hydrolyzed Protein dry product line.
Royal Canin Veterinary Diets Hydrolyzed Protein draws the bulk of its protein from hydrolyzed soy protein. Our dry matter label analysis reveals the recipe contains 21% protein, 19% fat and 52% estimated carbs producing a fat-to-protein ratio of about 89%.
A solid all life stages option for dogs with allergies.
See all 4 available recipes
Read our review of the full Royal Canin Veterinary Diet Hydrolyzed Protein Dog Food (Dry) range here
Main Ingredients Brewers rice, hydrolyzed soy protein, chicken fat, natural flavors, dried plain beet pulp Type Grain-inclusive (brewers rice) Protein Percentage 21% AAFCO Standards All life stages Best For All adults + small or medium breed puppies Z/D is one of 2 dry recipes included in our review of the Hills Prescription Skin Food Sensitivities product line.
This product gets the majority of its animal protein from chicken liver. Dry matter label analysis reveals the recipe contains 19% protein, 14% fat and 59% estimated carbs yielding a fat-to-protein ratio of about 75%.
Hills Z/D is made with hydrolyzed protein derived from chicken to help avoid adverse food reactions and promote healthy skin.
A time-proven, hypoallergenic formula thats been recommended by veterinary professionals nationwide for years. Ideal for dogs diagnosed with food and skin allergies. Highly recommended.
Read our review of the full Hills Prescription Diet Z/D Canine Dog Food (Dry) range here
Main Ingredients Corn starch, hydrolyzed chicken liver, powdered cellulose, soybean oil, calcium carbonate Type Grain-free Protein Percentage 19% AAFCO Standards Maintenance Best For Adults only, including seniors (not for puppies) This Salmon and Brown Rice Formula is one of 26 recipes included in our review of the Natural Balance Limited Ingredient Diets dry product line.
This Natural Balance Limited Ingredient formula derives most of its animal protein from fresh salmon and fish meal. Our dry matter label analysis reveals the recipe contains 27% protein, 17% fat and 49% estimated carbs which produces a fat-to-protein ratio of about 63%.
Enthusiastically recommended.
See all 26 available recipes
Read our review of the full Natural Balance Limited Ingredient Diets High Protein Dog Food (Dry) range here
Main Ingredients Salmon, menhaden fish meal, brown rice, brewers rice, rice bran Type Grain-inclusive (brown rice, brewers rice) Protein Percentage 27% AAFCO Standards Maintenance Best For Adults only (not for puppies) Sensitive Skin Salmon and Rice is one of 19 recipes included in our review of the Purina Pro Plan dry product line.
This Purina Pro Plan formula derives the bulk of its animal protein from fresh salmon. Dry matter label analysis reveals the recipe contains 30% protein, 18% fat and 44% estimated carbs yielding a fat-to-protein ratio of about 62%.
We also note the inclusion of omega-3 and 6 fatty acids from sunflower and fish oils designed to help support dry, itchy skin.
An exceptional over-the-counter, non-prescription dog food that may provide symptomatic relief from chronic skin allergies. Highly recommended.
Read our review of the full Purina Pro Plan Dog Food range here
Main Ingredients Salmon, barley, rice, oat meal, canola meal Type Includes grain (barley, rice, oat meal) Protein Percentage 30% AAFCO Standards Maintenance Best For Adults only (not for puppies) Zignature Turkey is one of 13 wet dog food recipes included in our review of the Zignature canned product line.
Zignature Salmon extracts the bulk of its meat protein from fresh turkey. Our dry matter label analysis reveals the recipe contains 52% protein, 23% fat and 17% estimated carbs creating a fat-to-protein ratio of about 43%.
An exceptional, simple ingredient formula. Recommended with confidence.
See all 13 available recipes
Read our review of the full Zignature Dog Food (Canned) range here
Main Ingredients Turkey, turkey broth, turkey liver, peas, turkey meal Type Grain-free Protein Percentage 52% AAFCO Standards All life stages Best For All adults + puppies 15. Zignature Dog Food Review (Canned)
Best Dog Food for Skin Allergies in 2024: Highly Digestible Novel Proteins
Skin allergies can be highly uncomfortable for both humans and dogs. Having to constantly scratch the itch is certainly irritating. Allergy on the skin can be very stressful for dogs too.
If you see your furry friend often scratching their ears or chewing on their paws, she could be having an allergic reaction. But a dogs allergies may be caused by several different factors that include the environment, parasites, and even dog foods.
In this article, we will talk about canine skin allergies causes, symptoms, and cure and the best dog food for skin allergies, with a review of the top dog food brands and hypoallergenic dog foods that can help prevent allergic reactions.
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What To Look For In The Best Dog Food For Allergies
Dog allergies may very well be triggered by the dogs diet. Food allergies are pretty common in dogs, especially with the popularity of commercial pet food that typically contains common allergens. This is more prevalent with cheaper dog food brands that use poor-quality ingredients and artificial additives.
Here are the qualities you must look for in the best dog food for allergies
High-Quality And Natural Ingredients
The best way to protect your dog from health issues is to feed her with dog foods that only use high-quality and natural ingredients, which are found in most premium dog food products. These dog foods may be more costly but may save you more dollars in the long run by minimizing trips to the vet. Avoid artificial flavors and additives, or chemicals.
Novel Animal Protein Sources
Some of the more common allergens in dog foods are animal protein sources from chicken and beef ingredients. This prompted dog food manufacturers to look to other animal sources like lamb, turkey, and fish to create dog food formulas.
However, years later, some dogs also developed food allergies from these ingredients. And so more protein sources were added like venison, duck, rabbit, bison, seafood, and even kangaroo and alligator. Since beef and chicken are the top two common canine food allergens, its best to choose another protein source.
Balanced Nutrition
To stay healthy and strong, dogs need essential vitamins and minerals in their food. The Association of American Feed Control Officials or AAFCO has set standards that include essential nutrients for a dogs overall health. So to ensure that the dogs diet has balanced nutrition, check the label if the dog food has met AAFCO standards
Dog Food Options For Allergies
Aside from the qualities mentioned, there are other dog food formulas that can further lessen the chances of an allergic reaction from pet food. It helps a lot, of course, if you knew which ingredients cause your dogs allergies.
Hypoallergenic Dog Foods
Hypoallergenic dog food is a diet that does not contain any of the known ingredients that cause allergic reactions in dogs like beef, chicken, dairy, and eggs, and some grains like wheat, corn, and soy, which are the most common canine food allergens according to experts.
Moreover, these diets mostly have a single protein source, usually from a novel animal protein source. Most hypoallergenic dog foods have limited ingredients too.
Limited Ingredient Dog Foods
After picking the main ingredient, which should ideally be a high-quality animal protein, it also helps largely to select a dog food with limited ingredients. Limited ingredient dog foods are dog food formulas with only a few ingredients for the purpose of avoiding or minimizing an allergic reaction, especially if the origin is unknown.
Some dog foods have too many ingredients that make it difficult to determine the origins of the food allergy or may have common allergens like chicken as part of the formula.
Grain-Free/ Gluten-Free Formula
Some grains are also commonly known food allergens in dog food, like wheat and corn. Although the cases are much fewer than in beef or chicken, your pup may have developed a food allergy to some grains. In this case, there are many grain-free dog food options to choose from in the pet food store.
Not all dogs thrive on a grain-free diet. Those who require more fiber in their meals can be given grain-inclusive foods that are gluten-free. These dog foods typically include wholesome grains such as oats, brown rice, sorghum, and many others.
Fish Ingredients
Very few dogs have issues with high-quality fish as the main animal protein source. Salmon is a great animal protein as it also offers an ample supply of omega fatty acids that offer many health benefits including digestive health, immune system health, and coat and skin health.
Other common fish ingredients in dog foods are mackerel, whitefish, herring, tuna, trout, catfish, sardines, and anchovies. Some of the regular fish meal formulas added to dog foods are menhaden fish, ocean fish, and salmon meal.
Veterinarian-prescribed Dog Foods
Some vets prescribe dog foods to address food allergies. Most of these prescription diets use hydrolyzed protein, which is a protein made so tiny that the immune system fails to identify it and react to it. Hydrolysis is the process used to break down proteins and make hydrolyzed protein. Proteins are broken down into amino acids that are known as building blocks.
Raw Or Fresh Foods
Canine food allergies are part of the reason why many pet parents are now turning to homemade or raw dog food, which is made with fresh and natural ingredients to minimize the chance of an allergic reaction.
Although fresh dog foods are more expensive and require time to prepare, these are believed to be safer and healthier options.Fortunately, there are now fresh food online sellers for busy dog owners, like Nom Nom Fresh Foods for dogs, which offer different recipes
Best Dog Food For Skin Allergies: Our Top Picks
| IMAGE | PRODUCT | |
|---|---|---|
Our #1 Pick  | Zignature LID Turkey Formula
| Check Price on ChewyCheck Price on Amazon |
ACANA Singles + Wholesome Grains LID Lamb & Pumpkin Recipe
| Check Price on ChewyCheck Price on Amazon | |
Nutro LID Lamb & Sweet Potato Recipe
| Check Price on ChewyCheck Price on Amazon | |
Natural Balance LID Lamb & Brown Rice Formula
| Check Price on ChewyCheck Price on Amazon | |
Instinct LID Recipe with Real Turkey
| Check Price on ChewyCheck Price on Amazon | |
Canidae PURE LID Salmon & Sweet Potato Recipe
| Check Price on ChewyCheck Price on Amazon | |
American Journey LID Venison & Sweet Potato Recipe
| Check Price on Chewy | |
Blue Buffalo Basics LID Turkey & Potato Recipe Senior
| Check Price on ChewyCheck Price on Amazon | |
FirstMate LID Endurance/Puppy Pacific Ocean Formula
| Check Price on Chewy | |
Hill's Prescription Diet z/d Skin/Food Sensitivities
| Check Price on ChewyCheck Price on Amazon | |
PET TAO Harmony Diets LID
| Check Price on Chewy | |
Tender & True LID Salmon & Sweet Potato Recipe
| Check Price on ChewyCheck Price on Amazon |
- Zignature LID Turkey Formula
- Acana Singles + Wholesome Grains LID Lamb & Pumpkin Recipe
- Nutro LID Lamb & Sweet Potato Recipe
- Natural Balance LID Lamb & Brown Rice Formula
- Instinct LID Recipe with Real Turkey
- Canidae PURE LID Salmon & Sweet Potato Recipe
- American Journey LID Venison & Sweet Potato Recipe
- Blue Buffalo Basics LID Turkey & Potato Recipe Senior
- FirstMate LID Endurance/Puppy Pacific Ocean Formula
- Hill's Prescription Diet z/d Skin/Food Sensitivities
- PET TAO Harmony Diets LID
- Tender & True LID Salmon & Sweet Potato Recipe
Weve assembled some of the best dog foods for allergies both dry food and wet food that suit different budgets. Also included in the list are recommended dog treats and supplements for a dogs allergies.
1. Zignature Turkey Limited Ingredient Formula
First 5 ingredients: Turkey, Turkey Meal, Chickpeas, Peas, Sunflower Oil
Our top pick for the best dog food for allergies in the dry food category is Zignature Turkey limited ingredient dog food, which is a prominent premium pet food that's suitable for all life stages.
Real turkey meat from US-bred turkey and turkey meal are the main ingredients in this grain-free dog food, plus sunflower oil. It doesnt have any of the common allergens in dog food. The minimum protein load is a generous 32%.
Worthy to be called the best dog food for allergies, this grain-free formula got a remarkable 4.7 out of 5 stars average rating from over 600 reviewers at Chewy.com, plus a high 96% acceptance rate.
Most customers found this premium kibble outstanding, with great results in their dogs allergy issues, plus other benefits like healthy skin and coat.
Less than 10% of the reviews were unfavorable, which mentioned mostly concerns about chickpeas, flatulence, large kibbles, and picky eaters.
Pros
- No known food allergens
- High in omega fatty acids
- High-quality and limited ingredients, with real turkey
- Multiple positive reviews from owners of pets with allergies
Cons
- Reports of flatulence
- Kibble may be too large for smaller dogs
2. ACANA Singles + Wholesome Grains LID Lamb & Pumpkin Recipe
First 5 ingredients: Deboned Lamb, Lamb Meal, Oat Groats, Whole Sorghum, Lamb Liver
Surely among the best dog foods in the market today, Acana is a premium brand with a reputation for excellent-quality ingredients. This limited ingredient dog food is appropriate for dogs.
Real lamb meat and lamb meal are the first two ingredients, plus lamb organs, to make a single-protein source but truly delicious and healthy dog food.
This recipe has fish oil to provide the essential omega-3 fatty acids for healthy skin and coat. No artificial flavors or additives are part of the dog food recipe.
This kibble received a 4.7 out of 5 stars average rating from 27 reviewers at Chewy.com, with a perfect 100% acceptance rate.
Expectedly, most customers were very satisfied with this dry food, citing vast improvements with their dogs skin allergies and GI issues, plus shinier coats.
Some also liked the high fiber level in this diet, which helped greatly in digestive health. There were only 3 reviewers that were unimpressed, saying their pups turned their noses up or that they didnt see any changes in the dogs skin.
Pros
- Single-protein source real lamb
- Limited ingredients, with no artificial ingredients
- 100% free from legume, gluten and potato ingredients
Cons
- More expensive than the average kibble
3. Nutro LID Lamb & Sweet Potato Recipe
First 5 ingredients: Deboned Lamb, Lamb Meal, Chickpeas, Dried Potatoes, Dried Sweet Potato
Third on our list but equally remarkable is Nutros lamb and sweet potato recipe a limited ingredient and grain-free dog food. Lamb is the only animal protein source in this formula.
Real lamb meat and lamb meal are the main ingredients, plus sweet potatoes for balanced nutrition. Sunflower oil is the supplier of healthy omegas for skin and coat health, as well as joint health.
Like our first two dry dog food choices, this recipe also received 4.7 out of 5 stars average grade from over 80 reviewers at Chewy.com, with a 93% acceptance rate.
So many pet parents that used this dog food shared that their dogs skin allergies were gone after weeks of this grain-free dogs diet.
Several stated that their dogs with sensitive stomachs are no longer showing signs of digestive issues. There were a few mentions about an alleged formula change, which isnt favorable to the commenters.
Pros
- All-natural ingredients
- Gentle on sensitive tummies
- Made with 10 ingredients or less
- Made with non-GMO ingredients
Cons
- Reports of formula change
4. Natural Balance LID Lamb & Brown Rice Formula
First 5 ingredients: Lamb, Brown Rice, Lamb Meal, Brewers Rice, Rice Bran
Known for its limited ingredient dog foods, Natural Balance offers a superb but easy-on-the-pocket option for sensitive skin dogs lamb and brown rice formula.
Made with real lamb as the first ingredient, this limited ingredient dog food formula also features lamb meal for the extra amino acids mass, and brown rice for the rich fibers to support the digestive system.
This lamb and brown rice recipe is enriched with omega 3 and omega 6 fatty acids to support skin, coat, joint, as well as many other aspects of dogs health.
Close to 500 customers reviewed this brand, giving it an average 4.6 out of 5 stars grade, with a 94% acceptance rate. The great majority of reviews were very encouraging, with several mentions of allergy relief in their pups, as well as healthier weight and poop.
There were a few mentions of an alleged formula change, and that the kibble was too large for small-breed dogs.
Pros
- Budget friendly
- Highly digestible
- Real lamb is #1 ingredient
- Suitable for all breeds of adult dogs
- Grain-inclusive but without corn, wheat
Cons
- Reports of a formula change
- Kibble may be too large for small-breed dogs
5. Instinct LID Recipe with Real Turkey
First 5 ingredients: Turkey Meal, Peas, Turkey, Tapioca, Canola Oil
grain-free dog food is certainly no pushover recipe. Turkey meal is the first ingredient, with peas and real turkey as the next main components in the grain-free formula.
Cage-free turkey is the only animal protein in the ingredients deck that includes coconut oil and turkey organs. Abundant in amino acids, this diet is generous in protein and fat contents, with 26% and 18% respectively.
And, its fortified with essential vitamins and minerals including vitamin E supplement, which is a powerful antioxidant that can keep a dogs skin healthy.
Chewy customers gave this limited ingredient dog food an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars, with a 93% acceptance rate. Over 90% of these reviewers were very impressed with this formula, many of whom said their dogs allergies were gone. The less than 10% of naysayers were mostly about their pups not liking the kibble.
Pros
- All-natural ingredients
- Single animal protein real turkey
- Great for skin and digestive health
- With raw-coated kibble of turkey meat
- Guaranteed levels of natural omegas and antioxidants
Cons
- Some customers find the kibble too small for large breed dogs
6. Canidae PURE LID Salmon & Sweet Potato Recipe
First 5 ingredients: Salmon, Salmon Meal, Menhaden Fish Meal, Lentils, Sweet Potatoes
Canidae is a shoo-in in this list of premium dog food names. Known for its high-quality ingredients, this grain-free formula and limited ingredient dog food from Canidae has real salmon as the star ingredient, followed by salmon meal, menhaden fish meal, lentils, and sweet potatoes for a 32%-14%-4.5% protein-fat-fiber contents proportions suitable for adult dogs.
The grain-free blend is also rich in essential nutrients, including vitamin E supplement and fatty acids for immune system boost, joint health, and coat and skin health, plus probiotics for digestive health. And, it has none of the common allergens in dog food or artificial additives.
More than 400 Chewy customers accorded this diet an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars grade, with a 94% acceptance rate, to attest to its great quality. 88% of comments were commendatory, especially with regard to mitigating dog food allergies and food intolerances.
Only 12% of the respondents were dissatisfied with this dry food for adult dogs, citing issues like strong odor, too many crumbs, kibble being too small, and an apparent formula change without warning.
Pros
- With probiotics
- Made with 8 real food ingredients
- Zero artificial flavors, colors or preservatives
- Contains fish ingredients salmon and menhaden fish
Cons
- Strong fish odor
- Reports of formula change, with added plant-based ingredients
7. American Journey LID Venison & Sweet Potato Recipe
First 5 ingredients: Deboned Venison, Sweet Potatoes, Peas, Chickpeas, Venison Meal
Unsure of the animal source to choose? Well, Venison is a safe choice. One of the reliable novel protein sources, venison is a great alternative for your red meat-loving adult dogs with food intolerance and allergy to the usual proteins like chicken and beef.
This grain-free formula has real venison meat and venison meal for your skin-sensitive pooch, plus sweet potatoes. It also has fish oil for the healthy omegas for healthy skin and fur, and the dogs immune system enhancement. This grain-free dog food is pretty affordable too.
200 Chewy customers gave this kibble an average grade of 4.3 out of 5 stars, with a 90% acceptance rate. 81% of the reviews were praiseful, especially when pertaining to the formulas suitability to a dogs sensitive skin and sensitive stomach issues.
The remaining comments were mostly about finicky dogs that didnt like the flavor, and with a few comments about more poops with this dry dog food.
Pros
- High-fiber
- All-natural ingredients
- Single protein source venison, which is a novel protein
- Zero corn, wheat, soy, poultry by-product meals
Cons
- Has a peppery smell that is off putting to some dogs
8. Blue Buffalo Basics LID Turkey & Potato Recipe Senior
First 5 ingredients: Deboned Turkey, Oatmeal, Brown Rice, Potatoes, Peas
For our senior furry friends with food allergies, this senior dog food is a fine choice. Real deboned turkey is the first ingredient, plus turkey meal, as turkey is the only animal source in this limited ingredient dog food. Oatmeal and brown rice are the main digestible carbs in this dog food.
This grain-inclusive recipe also has fish oil for fatty acids and pumpkin for healthy fibers to help support the digestive system. It also has probiotics for gut health. This is a high-fiber formula, with a max 7% fiber load.
This diet received an impressive 4.7 out of 5 stars average rating from over 200 Chewy customers, and with a 96% acceptance rate. Even more remarkable is that 92% of the reviews were very encouraging, with many pet parents saying their senior pets loved this kibble and that it was great for their pups sensitive skin and sensitive stomach.
Only less than 8% of the reviews were negative, almost half of which were about picky-eating dogs. Some found the price a bit expensive, and a couple thought the kibble was a bit hard.
Pros
- Best for sensitive pets
- Single animal source real turkey
- Balanced diet, rich in antioxidant
- Free from chicken, beef, corn, wheat, soy, dairy and eggs
Cons
- Kibbles are a bit too hard for a few senior pups
9. FirstMate LID Endurance/Puppy Pacific Ocean Formula
First 5 ingredients: Potato, Pacific Ocean Fish Meal, Tomato Pomace, Chicken Fat, Fish Oil
As for our younger four-legged kids, we find First Mate as the best dog food for allergies in puppies. Its pacific ocean recipe is a great option being a fish-based protein source. This proudly Canadian-made grain-free dog food has Pacific Ocean fishmeal from wild-caught herring as the only animal source.
For growing puppies, this limited ingredient dog food has good levels of protein at 28%. The formula includes ample vitamins and minerals for the dogs immune system and overall health. Chicken fat is part of the mix too for essential vitamin E.
A 4.4 out of 5 stars average grade was given by 18 Chewy customers to this puppy dog food, with a perfect 100% acceptance rate.
Out of 18 feedback, 15 reviewers were all-praises for this dry dog food formula saying their young pups thrived with it, and liked the high-protein content and nutrients. 2 of the 3 naysayers found the kibble too big for their small-breed dogs.
Pros
- Eliminates the risk of allergies
- High in fiber for digestive health
- Ocean fish meal is the only animal protein source
- High in protein and fat levels for puppy growth
- Made in Canada with the best ingredients
Cons
- A bit pricey
- Kibble may be too large for small breed puppies
10. Hill's Prescription Diet z/d
First 5 ingredients: Corn Starch, Hydrolyzed Chicken Liver, Powdered Cellulose, Soybean Oil, Calcium Carbonate
As for the best hypoallergenic dog food and prescription diet, nothing beats a formula designed by animal nutritionists and veterinarians.
Hills Prescription Diet z/d formula is a highly touted hypoallergenic dog food made with hydrolyzed protein to help dogs with food intolerance and food allergy avoid allergic reactions.
Of course, its also enriched with essential nutrients for good health. As the protein content of this food is quite minimal, its best to find another hypoallergenic recipe after the prescribed period, or to supplement your pups meal with more protein sources once your vet has given his/ her approval.
There were over 800 Chewy reviewers for this hypoallergenic dog food that gave it an average grade of 4.6 out of 5 stars and a 94% acceptance rate. You know that its the right dog food for allergies when more than 700 of these respondents had great things to say about this dry dog food.
Most of them said that this dogs diet is the only one that worked in alleviating their dogs allergies and calming their poochs sensitive stomach.
Only about 11% said otherwise, with a few saying there were no improvements in their dogs condition, while others have varying complaints like the high price, the kibble being too hard, and the taste not being very likable.
Pros
- Highly digestible
- Features hydrolyzed proteins
- Formulated by veterinarians for food allergies in dogs
11. PET TAO Harmony Diets Limited Ingredient
First 5 ingredients: Turkey, Carrots, Celery, Green Beans, Broccoli
For dogs that prefer wet food, we picked Pet Tao Harmony as the best wet dog food for allergies. This is because this US-made limited ingredient wet dog food is made with high-quality ingredients that are safe for any dog with food intolerance and food allergy.
This hydrating meal features real turkey meat as the only animal protein source. This holistic diet, guided by the Yin-Yang philosophy, only uses all-natural ingredients too. Aside from the first five ingredients, this diet suitable for all life stages also includes spinach, honey, and sesame oil.
While the brand does not have that many reviews on Chewy.com yet, online reviews for this product have been mostly positive, with most saying their pups have renewed energy and noticeable overall health improvement.
A Chewy.com customer gave this hypoallergenic dog food a perfect 5 out of 5 stars grade, adding that her skin-problematic dogs did well with this formula.
Pros
- Low-allergen recipe
- Real turkey is the only animal source
- High-quality plant-based ingredients
- Holistically formulated to promote harmony and energetic balance
Cons
- Not widely available in the market
12. Tender & True LID Salmon & Sweet Potato Recipe
First 5 ingredients: Salmon, Water Sufficient For Processing, Dried Sweet Potato, Dried Pea, Salt
The grain-free formula is worth the try. Real wild-caught salmon is the first and only animal ingredient in this wet dog food.
Its among the very few brands that can claim to be certified by the Marine Stewardship Council (MSC) as having sustainable seafood ingredients.
No poor-quality or artificial ingredients are part of this wet food formula. Its rich in essential nutrients and amino acids, with sufficient protein levels of 9.5%. The recipe is suitable for all life stages.
Customer reviews for this salmon and potato pate have been quite favorable. One of them said it was great for her pup that had sensitive skin and a sensitive stomach too.
Another stated that her dog absolutely loves the taste, even as she mentioned that the texture is not very consistent.
Pros
- Certified by the MSC
- Pretty affordable
- Free of grain, corn, wheat or soy
- Real salmon is the single animal source
Cons
- Report of inconsistent pate texture
Treats and Supplements
To further help your food-sensitive dogs, you may also look for treats and supplements that are suitable for these conditions.Hill's Prescription Diet Hypo-Treats is a great dog treat to consider as its made of hydrolyzed protein, which is safe for dogs with food allergies.
As for supplements, you can try PetHonesty AllergySupport Peanut Butter Chews for Dogs. This supplement is one of the best you can find as its formulated specifically for canines with sensitive skin and sensitive stomach issues.
About A Dogs Allergies
Allergies are common in dogs of all breeds and life stages, but with different origins. These are a result of the dogs immune systems reaction to a foreign body.
Skin Allergies
Skin-related allergies are the most common, which may be caused by flea bites (or when your dog is allergic to flea saliva), food allergies (triggered by common allergens in food), or environmental allergens like dust, pollen, and mold.
Environmental allergens may be seasonal. These allergies cause much discomfort with itchiness mostly in the ears and paws, but also in other body parts. When frequently scratched, bitten, and licked, wounds and bacterial infections likely follow.
Food Allergies
Food allergies are often blamed for most allergic reactions in dogs but theyre not as common as most pet parents believe they are.
However, it has become more common today as dogs developed food allergies to common animal proteins like beef, chicken, and dairy. Skin conditions (itchiness or swelling), gastrointestinal issues (diarrhea or vomiting), or both may be triggered by food allergies.
Food Allergies Vs Food Intolerances
A food allergy is an immune system reaction to a particular protein, which results in some symptoms like skin swelling or itchiness.
Food intolerance is a digestive reaction to something that irritates the gut system, or when the food is not digested or broken down well. Food intolerance is usually less worrisome than a food allergy, which in some cases may be life-threatening.
Common Symptoms
- Itchiness in various parts including facial parts
- Swelling of the face and facial parts
- Inflamed skin
- Hives
- Diarrhea
- Vomiting
- Sneezing
- ChronicEar Infections
- Constant licking or chewing of paws and other parts
Elimination Diet
To find out the cause of food allergies, vets recommend an elimination diet, which is to gradually remove the ingredients in all the foods that the dog has been eating until the allergic reactions are gone.
In cases where the dog seems to be having allergic reactions to every protein source he eats, a temporary plant-based diet may be recommended by the vet.
Conclusion
The causes of your dogs allergies are not easy to determine. Its best to have the vet examine your dog for proper prognosis and treatment.
As for food allergies, once the origin is discovered, there are many hypoallergenic options to choose from, some of which are mentioned in this article. An elimination diet is one of the most effective ways to determine the source of your dog's food allergies.
Dont take allergies for granted as some may be life-threatening, not to mention highly uncomfortable and stressful to dogs.
