best place to buy hypoallergenic dog food

By Isabella Storyclaire

last updated September 16, 2024

Contributions sourced from

The 4 best hypoallergenic dog foods in 2023

What we love: With just a single source of animal protein and a balance of high-quality carbohydrates and fats, Wellness Simple Limited Ingredient Diet will help soothe your pups upset tummy. We love that its made from a blend of whole foods, has natural probiotics, and is suitable for all breeds and sizes.

What customers say: Reviewers note how well this hypoallergenic option cleared up ear infections and itchy skin. They consistently write that this dog food is a great novel protein source for allergy-prone dogs. However, some users mentioned the foods strong smell so keep that in mind before you buy.

Ingredients: Duck, oatmeal, peas, ground rice, potato protein, tomato pomace, canola oil (preserved with mixed tocopherols), ground flaxseed, dicalcium phosphate, calcium carbonate, natural duck flavor, chicory root extract, choline chloride, vitamin E supplement, taurine, mixed tocopherols added to preserve freshness, zinc proteinate, zinc sulfate, calcium carbonate, niacin, ferrous sulfate, iron proteinate, beta-carotene, vitamin A supplement, copper sulfate, thiamine mononitrate, copper proteinate, manganese proteinate, manganese sulfate, d-calcium pantothenate, sodium selenite, pyridoxine hydrochloride, riboflavin, vitamin D3 supplement, biotin, calcium Iodate, vitamin B12 supplement, folic Acid, ascorbic acid (vitamin C), dried lactobacillus plantarum fermentation product, dried enterococcus faecium fermentation product, dried lactobacillus casei fermentation product, dried lactobacillus acidophilus fermentation product, rosemary extract, green tea extract, and spearmint extract.

The 9 Best Hypoallergenic Dog Foods Australia: Tested 2024

Written ByVedrana Nikolic| Canine Coach, B.A Ethnology & Anthropology, M.A Semiotics.Edited & Fact Checked By Renae Soppe | B.A Journalism & Science.Last Updated: 18th January 2024

No matter how tough or dangerous our dogs might look, the fact is theyre pretty sensitive. Pooches are prone to all kinds of allergies, not only to pollen and dust, but different types of food too. If thats the case with your dog, switching to hypoallergenic dog food is important to minimise the possibility of an allergic outbreak.

In this article, well cover some of the best dog food for skin allergies on the market. To gather all of the information you need to better protect your pup, we teamed up with veterinarians and canine nutritionists and spent months testing the top products. After several dozen options and plenty of discussion, we finally agreed on this list of the best hypoallergenic dog food Australia offers. Let's check them out!Related:The Best Dog Food Australia.Related:How To Choose The Right Dog Food?Related:How Is Australias Dog Food Industry Regulated?Related:What is AAFCO? The Association of American Feed Control Officials.Related:What Is the Pet Food Industry Association of Australia (PFIAA)?Related:AAFCO vs PFIAA: Dog Food Standards Comparison Australia.Related:Understanding Guaranteed Analysis Levels in Dog Food.Related:Real Meat vs Meat Meal.

Our Number 1 Pick -Petzyo Dog Food

Nutrient-dense kibble with balanced fat content
Ethically sourced wholesome ingredients
Rich in Omega 3 and Omega 6 fatty acids
Enriched with superfoods like sweet potato, blueberries, and turmeric
Fast & free shipping in Australia
Meets and exceed AAFCO and PFIAA guidelines

Runner Up -Eureka Wild Kangaroo & Lamb

Made with novel protein
Fairly short ingredient list
Over 90% meat, bone and offal
Gently air dried to preserve nutrients
No useless fillers

Third Choice -Absolute Holistic Air Dried Dog Food Blue Mackerel & Lamb

Air-dried to retain natural enzymes
Green-lipped mussels are great for joint health
B4 vitamin is important for brain development
Large range of hypoallergenic recipes

Australia's Best Dog Foods For Allergies Reviewed

What sets this product apart from the rest?

Nutrient-dense kibble with balanced fat content
Ethically sourced wholesome ingredients
Rich in Omega 3 and Omega 6 fatty acids
Enriched with superfoods like sweet potato, blueberries, and turmeric
Fast & free shipping in Australia
Meets and exceed AAFCO and PFIAA guidelines

Petzyo - 5 Star Rating

Ingredients: Sustainable Kangaroo, Sweet Potato, Peas, Lentils, Carrots, Broccoli & Broccoli Stem, Tomato, Spinach, Kelp, Blueberries, Rosemary, Parsley, Basil, Oregano, Turmeric, Chicken Oil, Flaxseed Oil, Fish Oil, Vitamin and Minerals (Vitamins A, B1, B2, B6, B11, B12, D, E, K, Taurine, Niacin, Folic Acid, Biotin, Choline, Pantothenic Acid, Omega 3 and 6 Fatty Acids, Iron, Zinc, Copper, Manganese, Selenium, Iodine and Cobalt)
Named Protein First: Yes.
Dog Food Type: Grain Inclusive.
Recipe Range: Salmon, Ocean Fish & Green Lipped Mussels or Chicken, Turkey & Superfood Extras or Petzyo Raw Food Range
Suitable For: All recipes are intended for adult and senior dogs, while the chicken recipe is suitable for all life stages
Cost: $$$
Australian Owned: Yes.

Gentle Dog Trainers Expert Reviewer

"Petzyo Dry Dog Food Kangaroo, Sweet Potato & Superfood Extras ticks all the boxes for hypoallergenic dog food. Kangaroo is a novel protein and it's ingredient list avoids all the common foods that causes skin issues in dogs. I highly recommend Petzyo."

The first thing to love about Petzyo dog food is the fact that their number one ingredient is a protein source, which is also ethically sourced. Our panel of experts have chosen the kangaroo recipe as it is an uncommon allergy protein. Following the protein, this recipe contains sweet potato, which is a great source of fibre, vitamins, and minerals. Furthermore, the recipe includes legumes like peas and lentils, which are great sources of vegetable protein.

Related: Petzyo Dog Food Review.

I love that this recipe also contains superfoods such as blueberries, turmeric, and a flavoursome mix of herbs. These ingredients are antioxidants and provide a great boost to my dogs immune system.

The Petzyo dog food being tested by our independent expert team.

Petzyo food is rich in high-quality ingredients, but thats not the only reason why it made the top of our list. Unlike most brands, like our number two choice by Eureka, this premium dog food comes at a decent price. Plus, it offers a quick delivery right to your doorstep, which saves you a gas bill to the pet store.

Very rich in protein and fibre
Cell
Turmeric helps with inflammation	Cell
Cell

Made with novel protein
Fairly short ingredient list
Over 90% meat, bone and offal
Gently air dried to preserve nutrients
No useless fillers

Eureka Wild Kangaroo & Lamb - 4.5 Star Rating

Ingredients: Kangaroo, kangaroo offal (liver, heart, lung, kidney, finely ground bone), lamb, lamb offal (liver, heart, tripe, kidney, lung), lamb kidney, salmon oil, green lipped mussel, free range eggs, chia seeds, flaxseed, chicory root, blueberry, kelp, apple fibre, broccoli, sea salt *Also contain: Postbiotic (Lactobacillus rhamnosus, Bifdbacterium animalis ssp. Lactis, Lactobacillus plantarum), lecitihin, citric acid, mixed tocopherols (natural anti-oxidant).
Named Protein First: Yes.
Dog Food Type: Grain Inclusive.
Recipe Range: Wild Venison & Lamb; Wild Kangaroo & Lamb; Wild Boar & Chicken
Suitable For: All ages
Cost: $$$$
Australian Owned: Yes.

This recipe from Eureka is based on kangaroo & lamb meat. Neither of these are common allergens, so if your dogs allergic reactions are caused by common proteins like chicken or pork, this might be the solution you are looking for.

On top of that, Eureka is one of the best Australian-made dog foods overall. There are so many reasons to love it!

Eureka Pet Food being tested by our independent expert team.

To start things off, their recipes are super rich in protein, but they dont contain meat only. They also include offal & finely ground bone (each item clearly named on the ingredient list) which our canine nutritionists and vets share are very healthy and necessary for dogs to have a balanced diet.

Related: Eureka Pet Food Review.

Moreover, Eureka uses only wild-caught and free-range meats. These are locally-sourced too and are combined with a small but carefully selected number of healthy additions like salmon oil and green lipped mussels.

Finally, I also love how the food is gently air dried, similar to our number three choice, in solar ovens to preserve the nutrients and keep the carbon emissions as low as possible. What more could you ask for from dog food? Well, a more approachable price tag would be nice, but the quality certainly justifies the price in this case.

No single protein options
Fairly short ingredient list	Not suitable for dogs allergic to eggs
Over 90% meat, bone and offal	Cell
Gently air dried to preserve nutrients	Cell
Cell

Air-dried to retain natural enzymes
Green-lipped mussels are great for joint health
B4 vitamin is important for brain development
Large range of hypoallergenic recipes

Absolute Holistic - 3 Star Rating

Ingredients: LAMB, BLUE MACKEREL, LAMB LUNG, LAMB LIVER, Vegetable Glycerine, Green Lipped Mussel, Dried Chicory, Parsley, Choline Chloride, Flaxseed, Kelp, antioxidant, Calcium Carbonate, Zinc, taurine, Vitamin E, iron, Vitamin B3, Copper Sulphate, VITAMIN B1, SODIUM SELENATE, Manganese Oxide, Vitamin B5, Vitamin A, Vitamin B2, BIOTIN, Vitamin B6, Vitamin B12, IODINE, FOLIC ACID, Vitamin D3
Named Protein First: Yes.
Dog Food Type: Grain-Free
Recipe Range: Chicken & Hoki or Lamb & Salmon or Beef & Venison or Lamb & Duck or Beef & Hoki
Suitable For: Puppies and adult dogs depending on the recipe
Cost: $$$$
Australian Owned: No

This is one of the best grain free dog food for skin allergies, and our panel of independent experts say its for several reasons. This brand uses an air-drying method to prevent proteins, vitamins and enzymes from getting destroyed by heat. This way, your pooch can enjoy all the benefits of raw food, but without worrying about harmful food pathogens.Right after meat proteins, we have green-lipped mussels named on the ingredient list, just like our second choice by Eureka. These are beneficial not only to dogs with joint issues, but growing pups, too. Next, we have dried chicory, which works as a prebiotic and as a source of soluble dietary fibre.

Related: The Best Air-Dried Dog Food Australia.Another ingredient worth mentioning is chlorine chloride. Otherwise known as the B4 vitamin, this ingredient has multiple benefits for a dogs health. Chlorine chloride helps your dog's brain develop properly and protects liver health. In fact, this should be an important part of every canine diet.Last but not least, our independent experts note that parsley is always a nice addition to every dog food. Not only it soothes the stomach, but it keeps your poochs breath fresh and provides itch relief.

Air-dried to retain natural enzymes	Only sold in 1kg packaging
Green-lipped mussels are great for joint health
B4 vitamin is important for brain development	Cell
Large range of hypoallergenic recipes	Cell

Every meat part is named on the ingredient list
The air-dry method preserves natural nutrients
Very rich in proteins
Can be used as a complete meal or as a raw diet supplement

ZiwiPeak - 4.5 Star Rating

Ingredients: Mackerel, Lamb, Lamb Heart, Lamb Tripe, Lamb Liver, Lamb Lung, New Zealand Green Mussel, Lamb Kidney, Lamb Bone, Lecithin, Inulin from Chicory, Dried Kelp, Minerals (Dipotassium Phosphate, Magnesium Sulfate, Zinc Amino Acid Complex, Copper Amino Acid Complex, Iron Amino Acid Complex, Manganese Amino Acid Complex, Selenium Yeast), Salt, Parsley, Preservative (Citric Acid, Mixed Tocopherols), Vitamins (Vitamin E Supplement, Thiamine Mononitrate, Vitamin D3 Supplement, Folic Acid)
Named Protein First: Yes.
Dog Food Type: Grain-Free
Recipe Range: Lamb, Mackerel & Lamb, Beef, Venison, Tripe & Lamb, Free Range Chicken
Suitable For: dogs of all breeds and life stages
Cost: $$$$$
Australian Owned: No (but NZ owned)

Unlike other dog food on the market, such as our number one choice, Ziwi makes their kibble through a slow air-drying process. What this does is it kills bacteria but preserves all the benefits from its ingredients. Conventional kibbles, on the other hand, are dried in an oven at a very high temperature, which destroys both bad and good things found in food.

Ziwi Peak being tested by our independent expert team.

All of our research panel members love that Ziwi not only states protein sources, but also names every meat part used in their recipes. This way, you know precisely what your pooch eats, which is helpful when trying to narrow down possible allergens. Plus, all of their meat is ethically sourced, without any growth promotant or hormones added.

Related: Ziwi Peak Dog Food Review.

Among plentiful beneficial ingredients, green mussels especially stand out. These mussels, living only on the shores of New Zealand, are rich in fatty acids and work great at reducing joint pain and protecting the cartilage.

Ziwi food doesnt contain any artificial preservatives. While thats amazing for your dog, you should keep in mind that this food has a short shelf life. It should be used within two months from opening.

Every meat part is named on the ingredient list	Expensive per pound, but you will feed significantly less volume
The air-dry method preserves natural nutrients
Cell
Can be used as a complete meal or as a raw diet supplement	Cell

High protein level makes it suitable for active dogs
Rich in natural fibres and antioxidants
A limited number of ingredients
Boosted Omega-3 and 6 for healthy skin and coat

Ivory Coat - 3.5 Star Rating

Ingredients: Lamb Meal, Kangaroo Meal, Potatoes, Peas, Dried Lamb, Dried Kangaroo, Pea Fibre, Tomato Pomace, Chicken Fat (preserved with mixed tocopherols), ground flaxseed, salmon oil, carrots, sweet potatoes, kale, broccoli, spinach, parsley, apples, blueberries, vitamins A, B1, B2, B5, B6, B12, D3, E, Beta-Carotene, Niacin, d-Calcium pantothenate, Biotin, Folic Acid, Magnesium, Iron, Zinc, Manganese, Copper, Natural Prebiotic, Rosemary Extract & Green Tea Extract. This is a naturally preserved product.
Named Protein First:No (but lamb meal is OK)
Dog Food Type: Grain-Free
Recipe Range: Chicken with Coconut Oil, Lamb & Sardine, Lamb with Coconut Oil, Ocean Fish & Salmon, Turkey & Duck
Suitable For: Adult dogs
Cost: $$
Australian Owned:Yes

This recipe from Ivory Coat contains up to 36% of protein, which is well above the average, which makes it a great option for every active adult pooch. But I'm happy to say that protein sources arent the only thing that makes this food amazing.

At the top of the ingredient list, there are potatoes and peas, which are rich in vitamins and minerals. These are followed by tomato pomace, kale, broccoli and spinach, all great sources of fibres. Finally, I cant forget to mention blueberries, which are wonderful antioxidants that improve your poochs overall health.

Related: Ivory Coat Dog Food Review.

This brand offers a large range of grain-free food, and all of the recipes contain a limited number of ingredients. So even if your pooch doesnt enjoy the taste of kangaroo, you can switch it to something more suitable to your dogs liking, like salmon, for example (my dog's personal favourite!). All recipes contain a large percentage of protein. This is great for active dogs, but its not suitable for growing pups.

Related: What Is A Limited Ingredient Dog Food Diet?

High protein level makes it suitable for active dogs	A bit pricier than some other options
Rich in natural fibres and antioxidants
A limited number of ingredients	Cell
Boosted Omega-3 and 6 for healthy skin and coat	Cell

Made of anti-inflammatory meat
Brown rice is a great source of fibre
Large-sized kibbles are impossible to swallow without chewing
Only uses natural preservatives

Meals For Mutts - 3 Star Rating

Ingredients: Kangaroo and Lamb meat, seasonal vegetables, ground brown rice, alfalfa, natural fats and oils, omega 3, 6 & 9, coconut oil, turmeric, parsley, pre & probiotic, kelp, vitamins A, C, D3, E, K, B1, B2, B6, B12, niacin, pantothenic acid, folacin, biotin and natural organic acids, plus minerals, calcium, phosphorus, sodium, copper, zinc, iron, manganese and iodine. Also contains Yucca shidigera extract and natural flavours, and is preserved using natural vitamin E and rosemary extract.
Named Protein First: Yes.
Dog Food Type: Grain-Free
Recipe Range: Bacon & Eggs, Duck & Turkey, Lamb, Goat, Kangaroo, Turkey and Chicken
Suitable For: Puppies and adult dogs depending on the recipe
Cost: $$
Australian Owned: Yes.

This hypoallergenic and gluten-free formula, by Meals For Mutts, features two high-quality meat sources. Our independent experts note that both kangaroo and lamb are considered cooling meat, meaning they have anti-inflammatory capacities. Both of these meats are rich in essential amino and fatty acids, and theyre a great source of zinc, iron and other important minerals.

The recipe contains brown rice, which is a great source of fibre, as well as vitamins B1 and B3. On the ingredient list, its followed by alfalfa, a wholesome source of proteins and different minerals and vitamins.

Omega fatty acids are extremely beneficial to dogs. From muscles to skin and coat, they are an important part of a dogs diet throughout all life stages. This recipe contains all three types of fatty acids in their correct ratios. This is similar to our number one choice, Petzyo, though that one contains Omega 3 and 6.

This dog food uses only natural preservatives, such as vitamin E and rosemary. It also contains Yucca extract, which reduces the odour of their stool. Finally, kibbles from this brand are quite large, so you dont have to worry about your pooch inhaling them like a vacuum cleaner.

Made of anti-inflammatory meat	Not a lot of recipe options for puppies
Brown rice is a great source of fibre
Large-sized kibbles are impossible to swallow without chewing	Cell
Only uses natural preservatives	Cell

High level of both meat and plant-based protein
Tapioca is great for blood and bone health
Turmeric provides anti-inflammatory effects
Great for weight management

Prime100 - 4 Star Rating

Ingredients: Kangaroo meal, lentils, sweet potato, chick peas, tapioca starch, field peas, hydrolysed kangaroo liver, sunflower oil, linseed oil, fish oil, sugar beet pulp, essential vitamins and minerals (including chelated minerals), sodium hexametaphosphate, choline chloride, turmeric, green lipped mussel extract, fruit & vegetable extracts including blueberries, FOS, MOS, glucosamine, chondroitin, yucca.
Named Protein First:No (but kangaroo meal is OK)
Dog Food Type: Grain-Free
Recipe Range:
Suitable For: Puppies and adult dogs depending on the recipe
Cost: $$$
Australian Owned: Yes.

The main ingredient in this dog food is kangaroo, which offers the highest level of protein of any of the meat types. Its followed by lentils and sweet potatoes, both of which are great plant-based protein sources. Plus, theyre high in fibres, vitamins and minerals.

Tapioca starch is also high on the ingredient list. Our panel of independent experts share that this hypoallergenic plant is used in dog food as a binding agent, but its also a great source of complex carbohydrates. Its also rich in iron, manganese, and calcium, minerals responsible for the production of red blood cells and healthy bones.

Related: Prime 100 Dog Food Review.

I really appreciate how this recipe is also rich in turmeric, which provides my pooch with anti-inflammatory and pain-relief benefits. But the effects of this ingredient dont end there. Its also believed to kill cancer cells and prevent tumour growth. Whats more, it has anticoagulant properties that can help decrease blood clots in the heart. Its basically a magical ingredient suitable for dogs of all ages.

Related: What Is Hydrolyzed Protein Dog Food?

This recipe is aimed at adult and senior dogs, and is a good choice for weight management. However, the level of protein is too high for young pups, and its not recommended until they reach 12 months.

High level of both meat and plant-based protein
Tapioca is great for blood and bone health
Turmeric provides anti-inflammatory effects	Cell
Great for weight management	Cell

Kibble made with an air-dry method
All the ingredients are ethically sourced
Very high level of protein
Contains natural antioxidants and prebiotics

Best For Puppies - 4 Star Rating

Ingredients: Sustainable Kangaroo, Ground Kangaroo Bones, Faba Beans, Chickpeas, Pea Protein, Chicken Fat stabilised with mixed tocopherols (source of vitamin E), Chicken Liver Flavour, Molasses, Beet Pulp, Alfalfa, Sea Salt, Caramel, Flax Seed, Red Lentils, Vitamins (Vitamin E, C, B3, B5, B2, A, B12, B1, B6, D3, B9) and Minerals (calcium carbonate, zinc sulphate, ferrous sulphate, copper sulphate, manganese oxide, potassium oxide, selenium), Guar Gum, Yellow Peas, Green Peas, L-Threonine, Monosodium Phosphate, Potassium Chloride, Choline Chloride, Salmon Oil, Chia Seed, Desiccated Coconut, Cranberries, Diced Carrot, Beetroot Powder, Chicory Root (prebiotic), Antioxidant Natural (mixed tocopherols, rosemary extract), Yucca Extract, Flax Seed Oil, Taurine, Kelp Powder, Green Tea.
Named Protein First: Yes.
Dog Food Type: Grain-Free
Recipe Range: Enhanced Chicken or Salmon; Rehydrate Chicken or Kangaroo or Lamb
Suitable For: Dogs of all life stages
Cost: $$$
Australian Owned: Yes.

So what if you have a puppy that seems sensitive to food? Balanced Life is a great option as an Australian, family-owned brand that recently launched a new, enhanced line of dry food. Their premium kibble is blended with air-dried raw meat protein pieces, and its suitable for dogs of all life stages. The air-drying method is done in solar-powered dryers at approximately 60C for up to 24 hours. That way, pathogens are destroyed while all the goodies remain.

Committed to sustainable agriculture, we're happy to nore that this brand uses only clean and green ingredients and ethically-sourced meat. This recipe contains 31% protein, which is above the markets average. The recipe is also rich in fibre, thanks to chickpeas, beet pulp and alfalfa. Its also high in Omega 3 and 6 fatty acids, like our number one and number six choices, which ensure the immune system can defend against different allergens. And thanks to the guar gum, your pooch can easily digest these acids.

The kibbles also contain natural antioxidants and prebiotics, which improve digestion and overall gut health. And with the addition of yucca extract, your dogs doo-doo wont stink to high heaven anymore.

Kibble made with an air-dry method
All the ingredients are ethically sourced
Very high level of protein	Cell
Contains natural antioxidants and prebiotics	Cell

Rich in Omega 3 and 6 acids, important for coat and skin
Kibbles are pea-sized, which is suitable for dogs of all sizes
Includes a bunch of probiotics
Suitable for dogs of all life stages

Canidae - 3 Star Rating

Ingredients: Wild boar, pork meal, sweet potatoes, peas, garbanzo beans, canola oil, sun cured alfalfa meal, natural flavour, taurine, minerals (iron proteinate, zinc proteinate, copper proteinate, ferrous sulphate, zinc sulphate, copper sulphate, potassium iodide, manganese proteinate, manganous oxide, manganese sulphate, sodium selenite), vitamins (vitamin E supplement, thiamine mononitrate, ascorbic acid, vitamin A supplement, biotin, niacin, calcium pantothenate, pyridoxine hydrochloride (vitamin B6), + More.
Named Protein First: Yes.
Dog Food Type: Grain-Free
Recipe Range: Lamb & Pea, Salmon & Sweet Potato, Duck & Sweet Potato, Bison & Lentil & Carrot, Wild Boar, Multiprotein
Suitable For: Puppies, adult and senior dogs, depending on the recipe
Cost: $$$
Australian Owned: No

Canidae had our sensitive pooches in mind when making their dog food range. All of their recipes contain less than 10 simple ingredients, so theres practically no chance of allergic reaction.

Each recipe has a named meat protein on the ingredient list, and all the meat they use is hypoallergenic, such as lamb, bison, boar or duck. The meat source is followed by vegetables such as sweet potatoes and peas, both rich in vitamins and minerals important for a dogs immune system.

Related: Canidae Dog Food Review.

Garbanzo beans, otherwise known as chickpeas, are also high on the ingredient list. Aside from being a great source of fibre, our team of researchers share that these beans also contain protein, magnesium, folate, potassium, vitamins A, B and C. Canola oil is also worth mentioning, as its a source of Omega 3 and 6 fatty acids, like our last option, which are important for a dogs skin and coat.

Finally, the ingredient list ends with a bunch of Latin names which are essentially the good bacteria that are added to the formula to help support healthy digestion.

Rich in Omega 3 and 6 acids, important for coat and skin
Kibbles are pea-sized, which is suitable for dogs of all sizes
Includes a bunch of probiotics	Cell
Suitable for dogs of all life stages	Cell

What Is Hypoallergenic Dog Food?

Before you start looking for the best hypoallergenic food for your pooch, our team of independent experts say theres one thing you need to know.Related: What Are HypoAllergenic Dog Foods?

Theres no such thing as universal hypoallergenic food, as different dogs might have reactions to different ingredients. All those recipes that claim to be hypoallergenic actually just avoid ingredients that are typical allergens.

Some of the most common dog food allergens are:

Beef
Chicken
Pork
Fish
Rabbit
Wheat
Dairy
Corn
Egg

Food allergies happen when a dogs immune system mistakes a particular ingredient to be dangerous for a dogs health. Then, it forms antibodies that attack the imaginative enemy. This can happen even if youre feeding your pooch the best kibble on the market.

Related:What is AAFCO? The Association of American Feed Control OfficialsRelated:What Is the Pet Food Industry Association of Australia (PFIAA)?Related:AAFCO vs PFIAA: Dog Food Standards Comparison Australia

But, finding out what your pooch might be allergic to is a difficult task. In fact, the only way I've been able to do so for my sensitive pup is through an elimination diet (1). This meant taking my dog off all the foods he's eating and putting him on a strict diet of two foods theyve never tried before for 12 weeks. Then, I slowly added old ingredients, one at a time, to see if an allergy reoccurs. It's a labourious task but necessary to find the allergen culprit.

Related:The Best Meat for Dogs.

Excessive Licking

This goes hand in hand with the symptom above. If you notice your pooch is excessively licking toes and paw-pads, theres a pretty good chance of an allergic reaction.

Ear Infection

Red and inflamed ears that have developed an offensive odour are also a clear sign of an allergic reaction. There might also be a wax build-up as well as crusts inside the ear canal.

Digestive Issues

From bloating and gas to chronic diarrhea, these are all symptoms of a food allergy (4). Your dogs body might be trying to expel the allergen out of the system, resulting in these signs.

Signs That Show Your Dog Might Have Allergic Reactions

Allergies manifest in different ways. Here are some of the most common signs of food allergies, according to our independent panel of experts.

Itchy Skin

While your pooch might be scratching for a variety of reasons, including fleas and environmental allergens, itchy skin is one of the most common signs of allergies, especially if it lasts for a while (2). In case of a food allergy, the most common itchy spots are the dogs ears and paws.

My Final Verdict

Food allergies are rather common in dogs. But luckily, a lot of brands nowadays offer a line of dog food for sensitive skin and other issues. The only thing thats left for you to do is to pick the one you think will suit your pooch the best.

Our panel of independent experts agree that Petzyo dog food offers high-quality, ethically sourced ingredients at a generous price. Its high in proteins and fibres, and rich in vitamins and minerals every dog needs throughout all stages of life. But if youre looking for a grain-free option, we also think that the Eureka air-dried dog food is a good alternative.

Want to check out some more dog food guides?

What causes a dog to develop a food allergy?

Food allergies happen as a result of a dogs immune system. However, the reason behind it is still a mystery. Some scientists believe there are genetic dispositions to allergies, while others claim theyre a result of a dogs exposure to them. Considering that there are some dog breeds more prone to them than others, there are more arguments that support the former thesis.

How can I differentiate a food allergy from intolerance?

While both of these conditions have overlapping symptoms related to intestinal issues, food intolerance only involves tummy upset, whereas allergies manifest on the skin, too.

How common are food allergies?

Among all types of allergies dogs might experience, food allergy is less common than environmental ones. Only 10% of dogs experience allergies to one or more ingredients in their dog food.

References

Coates, J. February 10, 2020. How to Tell if Your Dog Has Food Allergies PetMD. Retrieved April 29, 2023. https://www.petmd.com/dog/nutrition/how-tell-if-your-dog-has-food-allergies
Burke, A. Mar 07, 2021. Dog Allergies: Symptoms and Treatment American Kennel Club. Retrieved April 29, 2023. https://www.akc.org/expert-advice/health/dog-allergies-symptoms-treatment/
"Pet Talk: Itchy Dogs - Is Food the Problem?" August 27, 2012. Pet Talk. Retrieved April 29, 2023. https://www.cullmantimes.com/community/pet-talk-itchy-dogs-is-food-the-problem/article_c0bcbebd-b26b-5def-9591-db6e68462a06.html
Burkett, L. June 30, 2020. Allergies in Dogs and Puppies: Signs, Causes, and Treatment PetMD. Retrieved April 29, 2023. https://www.petmd.com/dog/general-health/food-allergies-vs-seasonal-allergies-dogs