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Best Grain-free Dog Food For Allergic And Sensitive Pups
Despite being popular, grain-free dog foods have earned a controversial reputation in recent years due to concerns that this diet could increase the risk of canine dilated cardiomyopathy (DCM), a fatal heart condition in dogs. With this in mind, we decided to speak to veterinarians and other experts to help narrow down the best grain-free dog food options to keep your pup safe and healthy. With any choice for your dog, first consult your vet.
What to consider when buying grain-free dog food Why grain-free dog food is controversialThe U.S. Food and Drug Administration launched an investigation into grain-free dog food in 2018. In 2022, the FDA announced they would cease public updates about the link between grain-free dog food and DCM until there was more evidence.
Many licensed veterinarians like Dr. Nell Ostermeier, a spokesperson for Figo Pet Insurance, remain cautious about recommending grain-free dog foods, however. "These diets are pretty controversial in the veterinary world," she says. At the same time, if a dog struggles with stomach problems or itching constantly, it might benefit from a specialized diet, Ostermeier acknowledges. "There are dogs with true grain allergies or allergies to specific grains and, of course, veterinarians will recommend food without that grain in those cases."
IngredientsBefore going grain-free, have your dog assessed for grain allergies by your vet. This can typically be accomplished through blood or skin tests or an elimination diet. After an allergy has been established, it's crucial to choose a formula free of artificial flavors, colors and fillers when shopping for grain-free dog food, advises licensed veterinarian Dr. Bethany Hsia, founder of CodaPet. "Look for high-quality ingredients, such as real meat as the first ingredient," she adds. Real meat should be present in the largest amount by weight; the best grain-free foods tend to be higher in protein.
Or as Dr. Chyrle Bonk, veterinarian and pet care consultant at Dogster, puts it, "The healthiest food to feed your dog is a food with whole meat listed as at least the first ingredient, preferably the first two ingredients. After that, the remainder of the ingredients should be things you recognize, including whole grains and vegetables."
When the first ingredient is legumes or pulses — such as beans, peas or lentils — then it's unlikely that these foods meet your dog's nutritional needs. In fact, legumes have been linked with lower taurine levels in dogs, an essential amino acid for canine heart health. In contrast, proteins such as fish, shellfish, dark chicken and turkey are rich sources of taurine.
BreedBreed is also an important consideration. Research reveals that Golden Retrievers are predisposed to taurine deficiencies, while larger breeds such as Doberman pinschers, Great Danes and Irish Wolfhounds, as well as Cocker Spaniels, are at an elevated risk for DCM. In these instances, veterinarians may advise against grain-free formulas.
PricePrice is a significant consideration because experts — including licensed veterinarian Dr. Grant Little, a veterinarian expert at JustAnswer — only recommend grain-free dog foods when pet owners cannot afford prescription-grade food. "If a pet has skin allergies and you can't do prescription food for allergies due to finances, grain-free diets are sometimes the best 'plan B'," he explains.
SafetyWhile the FDA has published a list of the top grain-free dog food brands linked with DCM, along with how many cases they're aware of, pet owners should always consult with a trained veterinarian before switching foods. Your vet will help you identify grain-free dog food options, including ones that meet the nutritional standards of The Association of American Feed Control Officials (AAFCO) or the global nutrition guidelines of the World Small Animal Veterinary Association (WSAVA), more common outside of the U.S.
Dr. Linda Simon, a U.K.-based veterinary surgeon and writer for Senior Tailwaggers, explains that these organizations don't directly approve of or endorse certain foods. Instead, they set recommendations for dog food manufacturers to assure consumers that their dog food is safe and nutritional. If brands adhere to them, they can put this on their labels. "Whether grain-free or not, I'd stick to a food that follows AAFCO guidelines," Simon advises. That said, "Just because it's not stated on their label or website doesn't mean a manufacturer doesn't follow AAFCO guidelines." So again, it is crucial to check with your veterinarian when changing your dog's food either way, especially when a specialized diet is involved.
Our top picks for the best grain-free dog food Best grain-free dog food for a sensitive stomach: Natural Balance Limited Ingredient Reserve Grain-Free Sweet Potato & Venison RecipeBest for a sensitive stomach
Natural Balance Limited Ingredient Reserve Grain-Free Sweet Potato & Venison Recipe
Regarding dog food for sensitive stomachs, it's best to look for grain-free dog food with fewer ingredients. Natural Balance offers many limited-ingredient, grain-free blends. Natural Balance also has a customer support number with veterinarian technicians for questions, and it is one of Little's favorite grain-free options. "They seem to do better with quality control, and they have lots of flavors that can be good options for dogs with food allergies," he says.
Specifications:Dogs with grain allergies that cause digestive distress should stick to dog food formulas with limited ingredients, such as Natural Balance.
Get it here: Natural Balance Limited Ingredient Reserve Grain-Free Sweet Potato & Venison Recipe
Best grain-free wet dog food: Blue Buffalo Freedom Grain-Free Natural Adult Wet Dog FoodBest wet dog food
Blue Buffalo Freedom Grain Free Natural Adult Wet Dog Food, Chicken 12.5oz cans (Pack of 12)
There tend to be more grain-free options for wet dog food because meat is typically the primary ingredient, not grain. While not all dogs need wet food for adequate nutrition, there are benefits to feeding it to dogs. For one, additional moisture can increase a dog's water intake, and though it may seem more decadent, wet food can be helpful for overweight dogs because it's lower in carbs and less dense calorically. On the other hand, it can be less convenient compared to dry food and more expensive.
Hsia suggests Blue Buffalo's grain-free formula because of their high-quality ingredients. "In addition, it contains no artificial preservatives or flavors," notes Hsia, who has fed her dogs this formula. "For dogs that prefer wet food, Blue Buffalo is an ideal grain-free option."
Specifications:Wet food can benefit a dog's health, and Blue Buffalo sources high-quality ingredients for grain-free formulas that support their overall nutrition.
Get it here: Blue Buffalo Freedom Grain-Free Natural Adult Wet Dog Food
Best grain-free dog food for skin allergies: Hill's Science Diet, Grain-Free Dry Dog Food, Adult, Sensitive Stomach & SkinBest for skin allergies
Hill's Science Diet, Grain Free Dry Dog Food, Adult, Sensitive Stomach & Skin, Chicken & Potato Recipe, 24 lb. Bag
Of all dog food for allergies listed, Little thinks Hill's Science is good for skin allergies and "probably the best of the ones listed and one of the better bang for your buck." The company claims to meet or exceed AAFCO standards on its website, and it is known for its research-backed and specialized formulas. "I like just about any product from Science Diet," Bonk adds. "They're the tried-and-true veterinary-approved diet because they're effective and often come at a price point that most clients can afford."
Specifications:Hill's Science Diet grain-free dry dog food is a favorite among veterinarians, but like many specialized formulas, not every dog will react the same way.
Get it here: Hill's Science Diet, Grain-Free Dry Dog Food, Adult, Sensitive Stomach & Skin
Best grain-free dog food for large breeds: Taste of the Wild High Prairie Canine Grain-Free RecipeBest for large breeds
Taste of the Wild High Prairie Canine Grain-Free Recipe with Roasted Bison and Venison Adult Dry Dog Food, Made with High Protein from Real Meat and Guaranteed Nutrients and Probiotics 28lb
The challenge for feeding larger dog breeds is maintaining a diet high in protein but low in fat. When there is a grain allergy, it can be even more difficult to find food to fit a dog's needs. In these instances, Hsia relies on Taste of the Wild dog food. "Taste of the Wild High Prairie food is suggested for dogs who have sensitivities to grains — or require a grain-free diet due to health issues — but still want a variety of protein sources and nutrient-dense ingredients," says Hsia, who has also personally used this brand with her pets.
Specifications:It can be difficult to meet larger dogs' nutritional needs when they have a grain allergy, but Taste of the Wild's high-protein formulas can be a good option.
Get it here: Taste of the Wild High Prairie Canine Grain-Free Recipe
Best grain-free senior dog food: Orijen Senior Dry Dog Food, Grain-Free Dry Dog Food for Senior DogsBest senior dog food
ORIJEN Senior Dry Dog Food, Grain Free Dry Dog Food for Senior Dogs, Fresh or Raw Ingredients, 4.5lb
Although Simon often suggests the Pooch & Mutt Senior formula to her patients, the U.K.-based brand is hard to track down in the U.S. Fortunately, Orijen Senior is an adequate substitute for pet owners in the U.S. "These are both brands I have personal experience with and which owners are typically happy with, thanks to their high palatability," she says. It's important to note that Orijen Senior has a protein content higher than average. This can be healthy for some dogs, but owners of aging dogs with liver disease or renal failure should opt for a lower protein option, such as Natural Balance, but only after checking with their vets.
Specifications:Feeding an aging dog with grain allergies can be difficult, but Orijen's Senior formula can support their changing diets.
Get it here: Orijen Senior Dry Dog Food, Grain-Free Dry Dog Food for Senior Dogs
Best grain-free dog food for small breeds: Nature's Recipe Small Breed Grain-Free Chicken, Sweet Potato & Pumpkin Recipe Dry Dog FoodBest for small breeds
Nature's Recipe Small Breed Grain-Free Chicken, Sweet Potato & Pumpkin Dry Dog Food, 12-lb
Simon recommends Nature's Recipe for smaller breeds because it's a "sensible diet choice with good quality ingredients and reasonable fat and protein contents." Unlike other brands, such as Orijen, it has a lower protein content, which tends to be better for smaller, less active dogs. The kibble is also smaller and easier for tinier breeds to chew. Finally, Simon notes that at approximately $30 for a 12-pound bag, it is one of the more affordable grain-free options available.
Specifications:Smaller dogs need specially formulated kibble, and if they have a grain allergy, Nature's Recipe is a healthy and affordable option.
Get it here: Nature's Recipe Small Breed Grain-Free Chicken, Sweet Potato & Pumpkin Recipe Dry Dog Food
Best grain-free salmon dog food: Instinct Limited Ingredient Diet Grain-Free Recipe with Real Salmon Natural Dry Dog FoodBest salmon dog food
Instinct Limited Ingredient Diet Grain Free Recipe with Real Salmon Natural Dry Dog Food, 20 lb. Bag
Sometimes dogs can have allergies to ingredients other than grains, and limited ingredient formulas, like Instinct's grain-free recipe, can help. "If a dog develops food allergies, it's more commonly attributed to the protein source, mainly chicken, beef or egg," Bonk explains. "Instinct makes great foods with high-quality ingredients and minimal processing." But Bonk notes that the high price tag makes the brand less of an option for pet owners on a budget. That said, if your dog is reacting badly to other grain-free blends, switching to the Instinct brand may be the correct "instinct."
Specifications:When determining what your dog is allergic to, salmon-based grain-free options like Instinct's Limited Ingredient dog food, might help pet owners and vets get answers.
Get it here: g Food
Best affordable grain-free dog food: Purina ONE Grain-Free Natural High Protein Dry Dog Food Formula True Instinct with Real Beef with Added Vitamins, Minerals and NutrientsBest affordable
Purina ONE Natural True Instinct Grain Free With Real Beef Dry Dog Food, 12.5-lb bag
The options are often limited when it comes to safe and affordable grain-free dog food. However, Purina ONE offers a high-protein, grain-free option. "It has quality ingredients and is affordable," Bonk says. "Most dogs do well with it." The potential issue with prioritizing cost is that your dog may have other allergies besides grains, which could be why some consumers report that their dogs developed skin rashes and stomach problems after switching to this food. Remember, pet owners should always talk to their veterinarian first before switching foods.
Specifications:Grain-free formulas can be expensive for pet owners on a budget, but Purina ONE's grain-free, high-protein kibble can be an affordable option for some dogs.
Get it here: Purina ONE Grain-Free Natural High Protein Dry Dog Food Formula True Instinct with Real Beef with Added Vitamins, Minerals and Nutrients
Best grain-free chicken-free dog food: Kirkland Signature Nature's Domain Salmon Meal & Sweet Potato Dog FoodBest chicken-free dog food
Kirkland Signature Nature s Domain Salmon Meal & Sweet Potato Dog Food 35 lb.
Feeding a dog with a grain allergy can be hard. But feeding a dog with a grain allergy and an allergy to an animal protein used in most affordable dog foods? Well, that has to be close to impossible. The good news is that brands like Kirkland offer a safe, limited-ingredient option. "I think the ingredients are great — nice whole foods and salmon is a wonderful source of omega fatty acids for skin and coat health, while sweet potato is a nice source of slow-releasing energy," Simon points out. "They've added several strains of probiotics, as well as berries for their antioxidants."
Specifications:Finding a grain-free dog food that accommodates a chicken allergy can take some creativity, but Kirkland's quality ingredients can help many sensitive dogs.
Get it here: Kirkland Signature Nature's Domain Salmon Meal & Sweet Potato Dog Food
Best organic grain-free dog food: Tender & True Organic Chicken & Liver Recipe Grain-Free Canned Dog FoodBest organic
Tender & True Organic Chicken & Liver Recipe Grain-Free Canned Dog Food
For pet owners who think finding healthy, grain-free dog food is difficult, good luck finding ethically sourced grain-free dog food. After Castor & Pollux — one of the few organic lines of dog food — was discontinued recently, organic grain-free dog food has become even harder to track down. The best bet for conscientious dog owners is Tender & True, Simon advises. Although not every formula is certified, they have several organic options, including canned dog food and kibble for small breeds.
Specifications:There are very few organic grain-free dog foods on the market, but Tender & True is worth asking your veterinarian about.
Get it here: Tender & True Organic Chicken & Liver Recipe Grain-Free Canned Dog Food
Best grain-free dog food for puppies: Orijen Puppy Dry Dog Food, Grain-Free Dry Dog Food for PuppiesBest for puppies
ORIJEN Puppy Dry Dog Food, Grain Free Dry Dog Food for Puppies, Fresh or Raw Ingredients, 4.5lb
Simon is usually reluctant to recommend grain-free foods to puppies because most younger dogs should eat some grain. "Most food allergies develop later in life," she explains. Still, in rare instances when there is prolonged digestive distress or skin problems that other interventions haven't helped, she makes an exception with Orijen Puppy. The high protein formula contains "WholePrey" ingredients that growing dogs need, like "omega fatty acids, which are important for brain development in the younger dog." Orijen offers many grain-free formulas to accommodate each stage of life, compared to other brands with only one or two grain-free options.
Specifications:Although most puppies should eat a grain-inclusive diet, Orijen Puppy can meet your growing dog's nutritional needs.
Get it here: Orijen Puppy Dry Dog Food, Grain-Free Dry Dog Food for Puppies
Best grain-free high protein dog food: Merrick Grain-Free Dry Dog Food Real Chicken & Sweet Potato RecipeBest high protein dog food
Merrick Grain Free Dry Dog Food Real Chicken & Sweet Potato Recipe - 10 lb Bag
There are several reasons why some dogs may require more protein than others. Puppies, larger breeds and working dogs — pups in charge of practical tasks — all need a little more protein compared to smaller, older and more sedentary dogs. Most grain-inclusive dry kibble contains about 18% protein, whereas Merrick's grain-free dry dog food contains nearly twice that, at 34%. "Merrick grain-free dog food is rich in protein and contains other superfoods," Hsia says. Other superfoods, like blueberries, add antioxidant properties to the formula, and supplements like glucosamine and chondroitin support healthy cartilage in the hips and joints.
Specifications:Larger and more active dogs benefit from higher-protein diets, and if they have a grain allergy Merrick may be a suitable kibble option.
Get it here: Merrick Grain-Free Dry Dog Food Real Chicken & Sweet Potato Recipe
How we selected the best grain-free dog foodSince the topic of grain-free is still a sensitive and evolving one in the veterinary world, we relied on the existing research, along with the cautious recommendations of experts. We also considered customer reviews.
Benefits of grain-free dog food for dog healthBefore DCM concerns, grain-free diets were initially considered healthier because some brands use too much grain and filler in dry dog food, Ostermeier says. "This can trigger all kinds of medical issues in dogs, especially involving the digestive system and skin health," she explains.
This can still be true when there is a grain allergy, but before assuming these upsides apply to your pup, consult with a veterinarian or another specialist, like a veterinary nutritionist, to confirm going grain-free will improve their diet. "Just simply avoiding grains isn't going to ensure that they are feeding their dog in the best way possible," Ostermeier notes.
How grain-free formulas meet the dietary needs of dogsMeeting the nutritional needs of dogs is complicated with a grain-free diet, so vets like Little only recommend them when there is a grain allergy present and when prescription food is not an option.
While grains do not contain taurine specifically, they contain precursor amino acids that are synthesized to make taurine. To make up for the absence of grains, dog foods need another source of taurine or taurine precursors, like fish, shellfish, chicken or turkey. "The animal protein itself doesn't make a difference, but more the ratio of how much legumes, peas and potatoes are used," Little adds.
Frequently asked questions (FAQs) How do I switch my dog to grain-free dry dog food?The one noncontroversial aspect of grain-free diets among experts is how to switch a dog from a grain-inclusive brand — and that should always be a careful transition to avoid unnecessary digestive distress.
"Start by mixing small amounts of the new grain-free food with their existing diet and gradually increase the proportion over several days," Hsia suggests. "This gradual transition can help prevent digestive upset and allow your dog's system to adjust to the new diet."
Is it really healthier for a dog to eat grain-free?It is only healthier to feed a dog grain-free food when they have a legitimate allergy to grains and you do not have access to prescription food. Likewise, it is only healthier to feed a dog grain-free dog food if the licensed veterinarian treating them approves this diet change.
Although the link between grain-free dog food and heart disease has yet to be proven, veterinarians are divided on whether it's the healthiest and safest option. For instance, vets like Little rarely recommend grain-free foods, whereas veterinarians outside the U.S., like Simon, seem more open to alternative approaches to nutrition.
Experts like Ostermeier fall somewhere in the middle and suggest feeding dogs some grains unless there is a grain allergy. "It is best to avoid extremes, so going from too much grain to no grain at all is kind of extreme."
Do vets recommend grain-free dog food?Vets like Little don't recommend grain-free dog foods unless all other options are ruled out because "most nutritionists that I have talked to don't recommend them due to the risk," he says.
Ostermeier agrees that grain-free diets are not popular in the veterinary world, but they are not unheard of either. "Dog owners need to find a vet who is willing to approach nutrition in a way that aligns with their approach to nutrition," she explains. "If they want to discuss feeding strategies that are considered 'alternative,' it is best to consult with an integrative veterinarian or veterinary nutritionist."
What is the healthiest food to feed your dog?Most experts agree that the healthiest dog food meets AAFCO or WSAVA standards and is recommended by a licensed veterinarian who treats your pet. In addition to these priorities, the healthiest dog food is one that your pet tolerates without skin allergies or digestive distress. The latter is where grain-free dog food might be helpful. If you suspect your dog may have a grain allergy, ask your vet about allergy testing.
If your dog is not allergic to grains, the healthiest diets are three parts protein to one part carbohydrate, or two parts protein to one part carbohydrate, Ostermeier suggests. The exact ratio depends on breed, size and life stage. "I also recommend at least 50% in high moisture food," Ostermeier says, such as canned or wet food. "I prefer my patients to eat formulated gently cooked foods, such as the ones found in Chi Dog diets, because they are simple, healthy, balanced and high in moisture."
Considering this, incorporating some grain-free food into your dog's diet makes sense, and wetter may be better.
Best Dog Food For Allergies, According To Veterinarians
It's disheartening to see your incredible dog develop itchy, red skin and bare spots from nonstop chewing because of an undiagnosed food allergy. But the good news is there are many quality diets available to help dogs avoid food allergens. While I've found eight excellent dog food recipes and spoken with a veterinarian about allergies, I've also included a comprehensive guide to help you find the best allergy-friendly food for your dog's unique dietary needs.
If you are convinced that their kibble is causing severe rashes, extreme itchiness, and/or unfortunate digestive problems, it's time to talk with your veterinarian about resetting your dog's diet with a food that is free of problematic allergens for healthier skin, a shinier coat and a much happier life.
How to choose the best dog food for allergies The dietary elimination trial or food trialIf you suspect your dog is allergic to their food, talk with your veterinarian. Signs of environmental allergies and food allergies can be similar and it's possible that your dog could have one or both issues. Sometimes these issues can also be complicated with skin infections, which make itching even worse, and require additional medical attention.
Common food allergens for dogs include chicken, beef, wheat, soy and dairy. Dr. Kevin Puzycki, a veterinarian at Low Cost Medical Center in New Orleans and spokesperson for Solid Gold said, "The official way to diagnose a dog with a food allergy is to conduct a food trial using a prescription hypoallergenic diet for a duration of 8 to 12 weeks. During this period, it's crucial to eliminate all other sources of food, including treats and human foods. If your dog is officially diagnosed with a food allergy, there are food options available that can help manage their condition effectively.
He goes on to say, "For dogs suspected of having food allergies, it's advisable to avoid common ingredients like wheat gluten and soy. Additionally, it's a good practice to read ingredient lists on packaging. The first ingredient listed is the primary component of the food, so it should ideally be a high-quality protein source."
If your dog does better on a new food, it was likely that an ingredient in their previous meals caused an allergic reaction. Continue providing them the replacement food, and be sure to keep any known allergens out of their diet going forward for clear skin, a regular digestive system and a happy dog. You may also need to switch out what flavored toothpaste and flavored medications your pup is on, so talk with your vet about non-allergenic options.
Limited ingredient dietOne of the best types of dog food to introduce to your dog in a diet trial is a limited ingredient formula. Recipes such as ACANA Singles Limited Ingredient Diet Pork & Squash Recipe are primarily composed of a main protein and a small handful of additional ingredients, which makes it easy to test out a new protein source while completely avoiding known allergens.
Introduce a vegetarian dietAlthough it is relatively rare for dogs to have a negative reaction to multiple animal proteins, some allergy-prone pups may need an alternate veggie-based dog food for a healthy lifestyle. The most common veggie-based dog foods use pumpkins and sweet potatoes as the main ingredient, but other niche recipes are available.
A vegetarian diet should only be used under the advice of a veterinarian, particularly for puppies. It's difficult to meet the nutritional needs of growing dogs with a food that contains no animal ingredients. Make sure the diet states that it meets the nutritional guidelines of the Association for the American Feed Control Officials (AAFCO) for your dog's life stage. If your dog is a large breed puppy, make sure the food specifically states it's suitable for puppies that will grow to be 70 pounds or more as an adult.
Novel proteinsIf your poor puppy is allergic to commonplace animal proteins like poultry, beef, lamb, and pork, then you'll want to try a novel protein, which is a protein your pup has never had. There are many options that may be safe for your dog's diet. Salmon, mackerel and catfish all promote skin and coat health because they contain omega-3 fatty acids. Unconventional animal protein sources like rabbit, pheasant, alligator, kangaroo, goat, bison and venison are all healthy options that are rarely allergens for dogs.
Although novel protein sources may be the perfect solution for your formerly-itchy dog, be prepared to pay much more for these alternate dog food recipes.
Hydrolyzed dietIt's also possible that your veterinarian may put your pup on a hydrolyzed diet. A hydrolyzed diet means the protein—even a common one, like chicken—has been broken down in a way that the body no longer recognizes it as a problem.
Our top picks for the best dog foods for allergies Best dry dog food for skin allergies: Instinct Raw Boost Grain-Free Recipe with Real SalmonThis vitamin and mineral-rich fishy formula is an especially healthy recipe for dogs dealing with severe skin allergies. Its freeze-dried pieces of raw salmon and white fish meat are especially popular with picky eaters. I feed my own Yorkie the beef formula, and she immediately picks out those freeze-dried meaty pieces, which is great because the freeze-drying process seals in the fresh, raw nutrition found in every chunk.
This grain-free meal is available in three recipes, and while they all feature omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids for skin and coat health, the salmon flavor is especially packed with skin-supporting supplements to help allergic dogs recover that much sooner. Good to know: Instinct Raw Boost made our lists for the best dog foods, best dog food brands, and best dog foods for puppies.
Specifications:This fish-based kibble with freeze-dried raw pieces is packed with flavor and nutrition to support your allergic pup's skin and overall health.
Best dry dog food for skin allergies
Instinct Raw Boost Grain-Free Recipe with Real Salmon & Freeze-Dried Raw Pieces Dry Dog Food, 4-lb bag Best dog food for chicken allergy: ACANA Singles Limited Ingredient Diet Pork & Squash Recipe
If you believe that chicken is aggravating your dog's allergies, all four ACANA Singles recipes are excellent chicken-free formulas and some of the all-around best dry dog foods available. Since each recipe utilizes a single animal protein source, it's easy to perform an elimination test to confirm if your dog is allergic to chicken while giving options like pork, beef or duck a try. Dogs love this meaty recipe, and because each flavor is easy to digest, made without common fillers like corn and wheat, and is a high-protein diet, I'm happy to feed ACANA Singles to them.
Specifications:This easy to digest pork and squash recipe is nutritious, high quality and great for pups that need to stay away from chicken.
Best dog food for chicken allergy
ACANA Singles Limited Ingredient Diet Pork & Squash Recipe Grain-Free Dry Dog Food, 25-lb bag Best canned dog food for allergies: Merrick Limited Ingredient Diet Grain-Free Real Lamb Recipe
Sometimes, it's hard to find a diet that doesn't trigger an allergic reaction in your dog. But with Merrick's nourishing lineup of canned foods with three unique recipes to choose from, chances are good that one will become your dog's new favorite wet food. Although chicken and turkey alternates are available, we recommend serving up the lamb recipe, which is protein-rich and free of poultry, potato, corn, soy and peas.
Specifications:This protein-rich, limited ingredient diet will help your lamb-loving pup avoid grains.
Best canned dog food for allergies
Merrick Limited Ingredient Diet Grain-Free Real Lamb Recipe Best budget dog food for allergies: GO! Solutions Sensitivities Limited Ingredient Grain-Free Turkey Recipe
Buying large bags of limited ingredient food just to find out your dog doesn't like them gets expensive quickly. Thankfully GO! Solutions offers an affordable 3.5-pound bag that makes it much more manageable for your dog to sample a range of single-animal protein recipes such as venison, duck and turkey. In addition, I am also pleased to see that each formula is free of chicken, potato, grain and soy. Pet parents can invest in bulk sized-bags if one or more flavors sits well with their dog.
Specifications:With four flavors to choose from, and bags as small as 3.5 pounds, your pup might want to give this gut-friendly line of foods a try.
Best budget dog food for allergies
GO! Solutions Sensitivities Limited Ingredient Grain-Free Turkey Recipe Best grain-free dog food for allergies: Nutro Limited Ingredient Diet Grain Free Lamb & Sweet Potato
With less than 10 key ingredients, Nutro Limited is hands-down the easiest and healthiest way to keep common allergens like corn, wheat, soy, dairy and grains out of your sensitive pup's diet. Made with a handful of premium ingredients, including New Zealand sourced lamb and easy-to-digest potatoes, this is a protein-, vitamin- and mineral-rich diet that is well-suited for dogs who need to avoid grain altogether.
Specifications:Nutro makes it easy for your allergic dog to get quality ingredients, like New Zealand sourced lamb, while avoiding all grains.
Best grain-free dog food for allergies
Nutro Limited Ingredient Diet Sensitive Support with Real Lamb & Sweet Potato Grain-Free Adult Dry Dog Food, 22-lb bag Best wet dog food for allergies: Ziwi Peak Original Series Beef Recipe
Wet dog food is an excellent way to keep your pet hydrated throughout the day, while providing a meatier and substantially more protein-rich diet than the average kibble brand. With a whopping 91% meat content and a number of premier-grade ingredients such as New Zealand beef and green mussels, I am extremely impressed with Ziwi's premium-grade superfood-infused wet canned food.
Specifications:With New Zealand beef and mussels, this meaty wet food will help keep your pet healthy, hydrated and satisfied.
Best wet dog food for allergies
ZIWI Peak Beef Recipe Canned Dog Food, 13.75-oz can, case of 12 Best plant-based dog food for allergies: Addiction Zen Vegetarian Sensitive Care
Unfortunately, some dogs have an awful allergic reaction to all kinds of animal proteins. If your dog falls into this category, you should give Zen Vegetarian's animal-free kibble a try. Rich in soy protein and formulated for comprehensive skin, coat, digestive, and heart health, this palatable oat-based dry food is easily one of the best vegetarian dog foods on the market. Since dogs are omnivores, a vegetarian diet should only be introduced under the ongoing supervision of a veterinarian.
Specifications:If your dog is one of the rare ones that can't tolerate animal proteins in their diet, this plant-based recipe might be the solution.
Best plant-based dog food for allergies
Addiction Zen Vegetarian Sensitive Care Dry Dog Food, 4-lb bag Best dog food for multiple food allergies: Blue Buffalo Natural Veterinary Diet NP Novel Protein Alligator
If you discover your best friend is allergic to every kind of red meat and poultry-based dog food you've bought for them, don't give up hope. There are a number of unusual protein-based options available that are well worth a try, such as Blue Buffalo's alligator recipe. Lower in fat, high in protein, and a flavor that genuinely tastes like chicken, alligator is a healthy alternative meat that fewer dogs are allergic to. And Blue Buffalo's grain-free recipe was specially formulated by veterinarians to conquer skin and digestive problems caused by food-based allergies.
Specifications:With its chicken-like taste, this alligator recipe is great for allergic dogs trying to stay away from poultry and red meat.
Best dog food for multiple food allergies
Blue Buffalo Natural Veterinary Diet NP Novel Protein Alligator Grain-Free Dry Dog Food, 22-lb bag Dog food allergy symptoms Skin issues
An array of painful and unpleasant skin-related problems are the most common reactions to food allergens. Dogs suffering from food allergies often struggle with red and inflamed skin, severe itchiness, fur loss, flaky and dry skin, bumpy rashes and other skin conditions.
Digestive issuesYou will find out quickly if a dog's food allergens impact their digestion, as symptoms include loose and runny stools, vomiting and lingering gassiness. It's also possible for a dog to have an intolerance to a certain food that isn't an allergy. It just doesn't sit well with their belly.
Behavioral issuesIn addition to the more obvious symptoms, a dog impacted by severe food allergies may exhibit behavioral changes such as lethargy or anxiety because they simply don't feel well.
What are common dog food allergens?"When it comes to allergens in food for dogs, we often see reactions to protein sources like chicken, beef, lamb and others. Additionally, dogs can also be allergic to non-protein additives found in food, such as dairy, wheat gluten and soy," explained Dr. Puzycki.
Despite the multiple proteins that may cause an allergic reaction for dogs, food allergy is actually a less common cause of skin issues than environmental allergens, like fleas or pollen. However, if your dog does truly have a food allergy and exhibits itchiness, red skin, and excessive chewing, it may be because one of the following ingredients are in your dog's food:
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