Choosing from amongst the best dog foods for allergies is a step you may find yourself having to take if your pup is suffering adverse reactions to traditional dog food.
Although the American Veterinary Medical Association (AVMA) estimates that only around 0.2% of canines have a food allergy triggered by ingredients found in the best dog food, for the small percentage of dogs that are affected, symptoms can profoundly affect their quality of life.
Common signs of dog allergies can include itchy skin, ear infections, vomiting and diarrhea. And while there’s no way to cure a food allergy, transitioning your pup to an allergy-friendly diet can go a long way in helping them feel more comfortable.
It’s important that you speak with your vet and get a proper diagnosis and management plan for your fur friend before changing their diet. However, if a food allergy is diagnosed, the below advice from Dr. Diana Hasler and Dr. Joanna Woodnutt will help assist you with choosing a suitable food for your pup.
Dr. Diana Hasler graduated with distinction from the University of Edinburgh Royal (Dick) School of Veterinary Studies in 2018. She has experience working as a small animal veterinarian in general practice, where she has treated many dogs, cats, rabbits, and rodents.
Dr Joanna Woodnutt qualified as a veterinarian from the University of Nottingham where she then went on to practice companion animal medicine in the Midlands. She really took to the consulting side of things and helping clients with medical problems such as dermatology, behaviour and nutrition - anything that involved helping clients understand their pets better.
PetsRadar's pick of the best dog foods for allergies
Why you can trust PetsRadar Our expert reviewers spend hours testing and comparing products and services so you can choose the best for you. Find out more about how we test.
This veterinary prescription diet is suitable for dogs who have difficulties digesting or tolerating fats in their food, such as those prone to pancreatitis. It has a low fat content while still providing enough calories to maintain body weight, and it contains highly digestible proteins and prebiotics to support your dog’s digestive system. It also comes in a dry formulation. This diet should be fed under the supervision of a veterinarian.
Dr. Diana Hasler BVM&S MRCVS
Dogs that love wet food but suffer from a sensitive stomach are often forced to miss out on their favorite fare due to the high-fat content. Thankfully, it’s Royal Canin to the rescue with this veterinarian-approved low-fat formula which is both tasty and gentle on the tummy.
Hailed as a lifesaver brand by many a pooch parent, Royal Canin has an outstanding reputation for delivering high-quality nutrition that you can trust and this offering is no exception.
If your dog is prone to an easily upset stomach and bouts of vomiting and diarrhea then this is a great choice. Packed full of prebiotics to support the growth of good gut bacteria, dietary fibers for healthy digestion and Omega-3 fish oils to soothe the GI tract, this highly digestible formula is bound to get two paws up from your pooch.
Not only is this a great choice for supporting the stomach but it’s also a fantastic option if your dog suffers from frequent urinary tract issues as the formula works to prevent crystals from forming in the bladder. If you have an older dog that’s becoming more sedentary, you’ll love that the high-fiber and low-fat content boosts energy levels and prevents weight gain.
The one drawback to this product is the choice to include grains and pork by-products. Grains can be hard to digest for dogs with more severe allergies and pork by-products do lower the overall quality of what is otherwise a great ingredient list. Those small issues aside though, and this is still the standout choice when it comes to the best dog food for allergies.
This food contains lamb meal as its first ingredient. Although it contains chicken fat—a source of omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids—most dogs with dietary sensitivities react to animal proteins, so this diet may still be suitable for some dogs with poultry intolerances. It also provides fiber in the form of brown rice and beet pulp to support digestive health.
Dr. Diana Hasler BVM&S MRCVS
If you’ve ever watched Rachael Ray cooking up a storm then you know how mouth-wateringly good her dishes can be and guess what? Now your pampered pooch can get in on the action too.
For a limited-ingredient kibble that won't break the bank, this formula is well worth considering. With just six easy-to-digest natural ingredients, plus a host of important vitamins and minerals, this is a recipe that's going to be gentle on your doggy's digestive system while still giving them everything they need to thrive.
Lamb meal is first on the list but please don't be put off by the word 'meal'. Basically, that's just a term that manufacturers use to describe a protein source (in this case, lamb) that has been dried and heat-treated then ground into a powder that is then turned into kibble.
Alongside lamb, you'll also find plenty of brown rice to give your pup the energy they need and beet pulp, which is a great source of fibre and ideal if you have a dog that struggles with constipation.
There's also a good amount of vitamins and minerals in this recipe, including omega fatty acids for a shiny coat and healthy skin, plus calcium and glucosamine for strong joints. At 20% protein and 13% fat, this is a well balanced and complete formula that will power your pooch through the day.
The kibble is free from fillers, artificial flavors, colors and preservatives and there's no added corn, wheat, soy or gluten. This is a clean formula that sticks to the basics and does them well, so if you're after a gentle but delicious kibble, this offering from Rachel Ray is worth trying.
With real pork as the first ingredient and nourishing vegetables in the form of pumpkin and sweet potato, this gentle formula is grain-free, high in protein and comes in a range of delicious flavors your fur baby is sure to love.
Turn the packet over and you'll find a clean and wholesome ingredient list, with chickpeas and lentils providing a good dose of fiber to keep the digestive tract running smoothly, and antioxidant-rich cranberries for a healthy urinary tract.
There's also a wide range of vitamins and minerals on offer in the form of calcium, B12, Vitamin E, taurine and zinc to ensure that both your dog's bones and immune system stay in tip-top condition.
You'll also find plenty of prebiotics and probiotics, which are ideal for dog's with sensitive stomachs and we love the addition of turmeric for joint health. Although this kibble is on the pricey side, the quality of the ingredients makes it well worth purchasing if your budget can stretch to it.
Keep your dog's digestive system functioning smoothly and their skin and coat glowing with this well regarded formula from the crew at Hill's Science. A source of prebiotic fiber to support a balanced gut microbiome in your canine companion, this kibble is highly digestible and gentle on sensitive stomachs.
Packed with vitamin E and Omega 6 fatty acids to help your grown dog get a lustrous coat and healthy skin, this natural formula uses only the highest quality ingredients and comes backed by veterinarians for the ultimate in peace of mind.
This is a very popular product that is full of all the vitamins, minerals and amino acids your dog needs to stay happy and healthy. The kibble is slightly on the larger size though, so it may not be the ideal choice for tiny teeth.
This diet contains protein in the form of lamb and green mussels, which promote joint health as a source of glucosamine and chondroitin. It has been formulated to meet the standards of the Association of American Feed Control Officials (AAFCO) for all life stages. It is also important to note that this food is grain-free, so it is recommended that you discuss this diet with your veterinarian to see if it’s right for your dog.
Dr. Diana Hasler BVM&S MRCVS
With limited ingredients and a single-protein formula, these high-quality air-dried lamb pellets contain 96% meat and organs for a rich and meaty taste your pooch is sure to love. The slow and gentle air-drying process locks in all the vital vitamins and minerals for a nutritious dish that contains everything your dog needs and none of what they don’t.
Using ethical and sustainable New Zealand ingredients that are raised without added hormones or antibiotics, these lamb morsels also contain green-lipped mussels, a potent source of chondroitin, glucosamine, and omega-3 for healthy and strong joints.
Free from grains and unnecessary cheap fillers that are high in carbohydrates, such as peas and potatoes, this formula is a great choice for those with sensitive stomachs and food allergies. Suitable for all breeds and life stages and available in a range of different sizes and flavors, ZIWI Peak Air-Dried Lamb Dog Food is gently nourishing and full of nutrition and tail-wagging goodness.
This food contains salmon as its sole source of animal protein, so it may be suitable for dogs with sensitivities to poultry or beef. It also contains smoked salmon, which is high in sodium, so this food should be avoided in dogs with heart disease, kidney disease, or high blood pressure. As previously noted, it is important to consult with your vet before feeding your dog a grain-free diet.
Dr. Diana Hasler BVM&S MRCVS
If you’re looking to treat your furry friend to one of the most premium products on the market then this offering from Taste of the Wild is sure to impress.
The ingredient list for this formula reads like a health lover's dream with red salmon leading the pack, a novel protein that’s great for dogs with allergies as it’s easy to digest. Sweet potato provides energy that is slowly released into the bloodstream and the antioxidants from the tomatoes, blueberries and raspberries help support the immune system and overall health and wellbeing.
We love that this grain-free formula steers away from common allergens and instead chooses to go with fiber-rich alternatives like lentils, which are gentle on the digestive tract. The recipe also omits eggs, another common trigger for dogs with sensitivities, and the inclusion of chelated minerals help maximize the absorption of valuable nutrients.
This high-quality product uses chicory root as a prebiotic to support healthy digestion and comes packed with Zinc, Selenium, Vitamin E and Omega-3 and 6 fatty acids, all of which will keep your mutts mane looking its best. The addition of Taurine is great for eye and heart health and also stimulates bile acid in the stomach to help break down and metabolize fat.
While more expensive than other brands, if ethical and sustainable food practices and quality of ingredients are an important consideration for you, then this is definitely a brand worth considering. Made in the USA by a family-owned and run company, Taste of the Wild has a standout reputation for ensuring their ingredients come from trusted and sustainable sources so you can rest assured you're giving your dog the best nutrition money can buy.
This prescription diet has been shown to reduce scratching and improve the skin condition in dogs with dietary sensitivities. It contains a single novel animal protein source so that your dog is less likely to experience an adverse reaction. It also includes high levels of essential fatty acids to support skin health. This food should be fed under the supervision of a veterinarian.
Dr. Diana Hasler BVM&S MRCVS
Backed by rigorous research, it's hard to beat this standout formula from Hill's Science that has been specially formulated by Hill’s nutritionists and veterinarians to help manage your dog’s environmental or food sensitivities.
Formulated to support the skin's barriers against environmental irritants, this kibble has been proven to result in visible skin healing within 21 days and it has also been clinically tested and shown to improve a dog's sleep quality by reducing nighttime scratching.
Crammed full of all the goodness you'd expect from this brand, this tasty kibble has all the vitamins and minerals your pup needs to power through their day, plus plenty of added fruits and vegetables for a powerful hit of antioxidants.
This wet food comes in three different flavors, all of which contain a single source of animal protein for dogs who have intolerances to a certain type of protein. They also contain easily digestible carbohydrates and prebiotics to support the digestive system, as well as flaxseed to provide omega-3 fatty acids to promote skin health.
Dr. Diana Hasler BVM&S MRCVS
If your foodie fur baby isn't a huge fan of kibble and prefers a hearty wet food dish to dive into at mealtimes, then this limited ingredient formula from Wellness is definitely worth considering.
Grain-free, this limited-ingredient recipe features a single source of protein and easily digestible carbohydrates, with no extra fillers or additives, making it ideal for dogs with sensitivities.
Made with all natural ingredients with added vitamins and minerals, this wet food contains no meat byproducts, fillers, or artificial preservatives and it's super high in prebiotics and fiber, making it great for gut health.
You'll also find this formula great for your dog's skin and coat with plenty of nourishing Omega fatty acids from the flaxseed and lots of additional vitamins and minerals to support heart health and the immune system.
This easily digestible diet contains salmon as its sole source of animal protein, so it is suitable for dogs who are sensitive to poultry or beef. It is also rich in antioxidants to support the immune system, and it contains prebiotics and fiber in the form of brown rice, pumpkin, and flaxseed to promote gastrointestinal health.
Known for their high quality formulas, this limited ingredient kibble is another win for Blue Buffalo and features real salmon as the single animal protein source combined with pumpkin and peas to aid digestion.
Free from corn, wheat, soy, dairy and eggs, it's a great option for dogs with allergies and food sensitivities and it comes packed with the brands Lifesource Bits, containing a precise blend of antioxidants, vitamins, and minerals to support immune system health and oxidative balance.
Rich in omega 3 and 6 for skin and coat health, the kibble is designed to help build strong bones and muscles and is cold-formed to preserve its potency. While it's definitely not the cheapest kibble on the shelves, this is a standout formula from a reputable brand that is well worth considering.
If your dog has a problem with chicken, then you should consider a diet that is entirely free of this common protein. Take a good look at the ingredients in this meal and you'll find there's no chicken at all.
This is actually less common than you may imagine but here the main ingredient is deboned salmon followed by salmon meal. It also contains a host of healthy grains including brown rice as well as sweet potatoes which are gentle on the digestive tract.
Having a single source animal protein is important for dogs with allergies. Similarly, an absence of corn or soy ingredients is a must. With just nine key ingredients, you're on safe ground with Merrick's meal and you can be sure there are no eggs, dairy or artificial colors, flavors or preservatives.
The only downside is that your dog may not like it, not because it tastes awful but simply because some dogs have different preferences. If that's the case, it's a shame because this really is up there with the best.
The best dog food for allergies: FAQs
How to choose the best dog food for allergies
If your dog seems more interested in pawing at his ears or scratching her skin than hanging out with you and you’ve ruled out other causes, then it could be time to consider experimenting with their diet.
But with as many free-from foods on the market for dogs as there is for people, knowing where to start can be daunting. Thankfully, we’ve come up with a few simple guidelines that will help point you in the right direction.
Look for products that have short ingredient lists, generally with one form of protein and one form of carbohydrate which makes it easier to identify the potential allergen. While there are both risks and benefits, raw dog food is another option worth looking into. With few ingredients and zero additives, our guide to the best raw dog food is a great resource if you’re not sure where to start.
According to Dr. Joanna Woodnutt, “A good diet for allergies has a single protein source, such as lamb, and a single carbohydrate source. This reduces the chance of an allergen being present. If you don’t know what your dog is allergic to, the diet should contain a novel protein - one your dog hasn’t encountered before. Unusual proteins like ostrich and bison are sometimes used for allergy diets for this reason.”
Novel proteins and other ingredients can work well for a lot of dogs as they won’t have been over-exposed to them in the past. Think venison, rabbit, kangaroo, pheasant and bison, and gluten-free ancient grains and seeds like quinoa, millet, and chia.
Antioxidants from fruits and vegetables and Omega-3 fatty acids are great additions to your pup's diet and are well worth keeping an eye out for. "Dog foods high in omega 3s will also help the skin by reducing inflammation and building a healthier skin barrier," says Dr. Joanna Woodnutt. You'll also want to look for added vitamins, minerals, prebiotics and probiotics. Vitamins C and E and probiotic strains like lactobacillus and acidophilus are particularly great for soothing the GI tract and ensuring good digestive health.
Woodnutt also recommends considering opting for a hydrolysed diet. "The proteins are too small to cause an immune reaction," she explains. "They are great to use when the dog’s dietary history is unknown. They are also produced in a clean factory, to reduce the risk of cross contamination, as studies have shown the ingredients list on the back of the pack isn’t always accurate when it comes to what proteins could be inside."
Finally, if you’re noticing your dog displaying any of the symptoms of a possible allergic reaction be sure to consult your vet who will be able to help identify the cause and recommend the best course of treatment.
What foods should dogs with allergies avoid?
According to VCA Animal Hospitals, the most common food allergens in dogs are proteins, particularly those found in beef, chicken, chicken eggs, dairy, soy, and wheat gluten.
However, they note that almost any food ingredient has the potential to trigger an allergic reaction and while protein is the most common cause, other substances, such as artificial colors and preservatives, can also be responsible.
While it’s tempting to just start removing certain foods from your dog’s diet, it’s important that you seek the specialized advice and guidance of your vet to avoid accidentally omitting vital vitamins and minerals that your pup needs to thrive.
Your vet will be able to run tests that accurately determine exactly which ingredients are causing issues for your dog and work with you to formulate an appropriate diet for them.
What is the most common dog allergy?
As we’ve seen, food allergies in dogs are not as common as we might think, with the AVMA estimating that only 0.2% of pups will suffer from an allergic reaction that’s been triggered by something they’ve consumed.
So, if food allergies aren’t all that prevalent, what is the most common dog allergy? Well, according to a 2018 State of Pet Health Report from Banfield Pet Hospital, found that flea allergies in dogs have increased by 12.5% over the past 10 years, with environmental allergies up 30.7%.
As always, if you suspect your canine companion is suffering from an allergy, be sure to consult your vet who will be able to let you know exactly what you’re dealing with and outline an appropriate course of treatment.
