What is the number 1 food allergy in dogs

Common dog food allergies

How can you tell if your dog is allergic to food?

Food allergies cause a host of symptoms, like itching and gastrointestinal distress. A visit to the vet and a potential elimination diet can help pinpoint the culprit and determine if its a food allergen.

What is the most common food allergy in dogs?

Protein, specifically beef, appears to be the most common food allergy in dogs, followed by chicken and dairy.

What does a grain allergy look like in dogs?

A grain allergy will show up similarly to other food sensitivities. Adverse food reactions may include the following symptoms: itchy skin and paws, ear itching, and digestive upset. While a grain allergy is possible, most dogs can digest grains without any issues. Speak with your vet if you notice any changes in digestion and whether this is suitable for your dog.

What food is good for dogs with allergies?

Hypoallergenic dog foods and novel protein diets with simple ingredient formulas, omega-3 fatty acids, and skin health supplements are great options for dogs with allergies. Our vets love Royal Canins Veterinary Diet Hydrolyzed Protein Adult DP Dry Dog Food because its packed with easy-to-digest proteins.

What ingredient in dog food causes itching?

The most common ingredients causing itching are proteins, including beef, dairy, and chicken.

Food Allergies in Dogs

What Are Food Allergies in Dogs?

Food allergies are an immune response to ingredients in a dog's dietan ingredient they are allergic to. This immune response usually becomes apparent over a prolonged amount of time rather than immediately after they try a food for the first time. Most dogs with true food allergies are actually allergic to a specific protein rather than a grain, as many assume. However, dogs can also be allergic to any ingredient in the diet itself.

When a dog with food allergies encounters a specific food they are allergic to, their immune system sees that protein as a foreign substance and mounts an immune system attack. This commonly causes itching, redness, and swelling. Food allergies are less common than environmental allergies, such as seasonal allergies and flea/tick allergies. In fact, only 0.2% of dogs are actually affected by food allergies.

Symptoms of Food Allergies in Dogs

Causes of Food Allergies in Dogs

Food allergies are caused by an overenthusiastic immune system reaction to specific protein. The immune system mistakenly treats the protein like a foreign substance and kicks into gear. This leads to inflammation, which causes physical changes in the dog's body, such as redness, swelling, itching, and increased tear or other fluid production, while the immune system tries to get rid of the foreign substance. This fluid production can be in the gastrointestinal tract as well, leading to diarrhea and/or vomiting.

There is a genetic component to all allergies. However, the exact mechanism of why allergies develop in some dogs and not in others is not fully understood.

Dogs can have allergies from an early age or they can develop them several years into life. While allergies can occur in any breed of dog at any age, some are more likely to have food allergies. Labrador Retrievers, Golden Retrievers, English Springer Spaniels, Cocker Spaniels, Collies, Miniature Schnauzers, and Shar-Pei are more prone to develop food allergies.

There are several ingredients that are often linked to food allergies in dogs. The most common allergy is to a specific protein, but many dogs are allergic to more than one food ingredient. The following have been commonly linked to food allergies in dogs:

• Chicken

• Beef

• Dairy

• Wheat

• Soy

• Eggs

How Veterinarians Diagnose Food Allergies in Dogs

Dogs are most often diagnosed with food allergies based on a physical exam, clinical signs, and their response to a food trial.

Your dogs veterinarian may recommend that you complete a food trial with your pet. Food trials last eight to 12 weeks and must be followed exactly as prescribed. Be sure not to give any treats or other diets that may disrupt the results of the trial. Talk to your veterinarian about which heartworm and flea/tick prevention products are best during this time, as many have added beef or chicken protein for flavor. There are various ways that a food trial can be approached:

• A prescription hydrolyzed protein diet. These diets have broken their proteins down to small particles so that they are unable to bind to the receptor and initiate the immune response.

• An elimination diet. These diets have a single source protein/carbohydrate, and are either formulated by a veterinary nutritionist or are home-cooked diets made under the direction of a veterinarian.

Most elimination diets are not suitable for long-term feeding, and instead are used only to diagnose food allergies. If your dogs skin/ear issues resolve, then you know that your dog has a food allergy and can move forward in finding a diet that they will thrive on long-term.

• Novel new, protein/carbohydrate source diets. This is food that has unusual protein or carbohydrate sources and limited ingredients that may cause an allergic reaction.

• Skin support diets. These are fortified with bioactives and phytonutrients to minimize the immune system's response.

Food trials or elimination diets are the best way to diagnose food allergies. There are diagnostic tests on the market, but many questions remain regarding their accuracy.

Treatment of Food Allergies in Dogs

Most food allergies are treated with a change in diet. It is very common for dogs with food allergies to also have environmental allergies. They may be prescribed allergy medications like Apoquel, Cytopoint, antihistamines, or steroids, in addition to a special diet.

Several supplements may be beneficial to dogs with allergies as well. These include omega fatty acids to boost the natural barrier function of the skin, and products including:

Best Food Diet for Dogs with Food Allergies

Many diets on the market can help to manage your dogs allergies. Allergies are specific to the individual dog, so there is no one best diet. The best diet is the food that contains ingredients that your dog is not allergic to and is balanced and formulated for optimal health. The following list includes several diets that many allergy dogs have found relief with, including:

Recovery and Management of Food Allergies in Dogs

Food allergies cannot be cured, but they can be well-managed long term with appropriate diet therapy and avoidance of allergic ingredients. If your dog has a food allergy, be sure to watch dog food labels closely, especially with treats, so you dont accidentally give them anything considered allergenic. Prescription treats EW on the market, and some pet parents find it helpful to use raw baby carrots or green beans for treats in a pinch.

If your dog has food allergies and is undergoing a diet trial, expect it to last eight to 12 weeks before you can see an improvement. Reduction in licking and chewing may be seen in the first four weeks, but other dogs may take up to 12 weeks before you see any improvement.

Food Allergies in Dogs FAQs

What is the most common food allergy in dogs?

The most common food allergy in dogs is protein.

What are the most common signs of food allergies in a dog?

The most common signs of food allergies in dogs are itching, frequent skin and ear infections, and chewing/licking of the feet.

Can you test a dog for food allergies?

Dogs are tested for food allergies by using diet trials, generally under the guidance of a veterinarian.

Can you cure a food allergy in a dog?

Food allergies cannot be cured. However, they can be well-managed with an appropriate diet and avoidance of allergic ingredients.

Featured Image:Adobe/Christian Mller

WRITTEN BY

Melissa Boldan, DVM

Veterinarian

Dr. Melissa Boldan graduated from the University of Missouri College of Veterinary Medicine in 2012. She initially practiced mixed animal...

The Best Hypoallergenic Dog Food for Allergies in 2023

This post may contain affiliate links. If you click and buy we may make a commission, at no additional charge to you. Please see our disclosure policy for more details.

Hypoallergenic Dog Food are best if your dog suffers from food intolerance and allergies, but finding the right one for them can be difficult and expensive.

But your dogs diet deserves healthy dog food for allergies that wont cause itching, irritation, inflammation, and overall make them uncomfortable.

Thats why we created this mega guide to the best hypoallergenic dog foodin order to help you learn everything you need to know about finding a limited ingredient dog food.

P.S. Grain Free Dog Food

Our Top Recommendation for Hypoallergenic Dog Food!

High quality pet food for sensitive pets. It is a grain-free product and is meant for all life stages. It is tasty and is a great source of protein for your pet.

View Latest Price

*We earn a commission if you make a purchase, at no additional cost to you.

In this guide, youll learn the basics of a limited ingredient diet for dogs,discuss the things youll want to look for when picking one for your canine, and learn more about the top-rated dog foods for allergies.

Best Hypoallergenic Dog Food

View Latest Price

P.S. Grain-Free Complete Dog Food is specifically designed to help put an end to your dogs food allergies, and it also seeks to prevent yeast infections and other problems that cause itchy skin.

Notable Qualities and Features:

• Lamb is the first listed ingredient
• Grain free and without potatoes
• Backed by the manufacturers money-back guarantee
• Made in New Zealand

Top Ingredients:

Lamb, Lamb Lung, Lamb Liver, Lamb Heart, Parsley, Pumpkin, Rosemary, Inulin (from Chicory Root), Ground Lamb Bone, Vegetable Glycerin, Choline Chloride, Mixed Tocopherols (Source of Vitamin E), Zinc Proteinate, Zinc Sulfate, Ferrous Sulfate, Vitamin E Supplement

P. S. Grain-Free Complete Dog Food Reviews: What Are People Saying About It?

P.S. Grain-Free Complete Dry Dog Food received plenty of praise from most owners, and it clearly ranks among the best dog food for allergies available.

Several reported that it was not only effective for resolving their dogsitchy skin and paws, but it also appears to be quite palatable to dogs. However, a few noted that it is very important to transition to this diet carefully to avoid an intestinal upset.

Who is this Hypoallergenic Dog Food Best For?

• Dogs suffering from wheat allergies
• Owners looking for a sage and healthy food
• People looking for an affordable hypoallergenic dog food

Bottom Line: Why You Should Consider P.S. Grain-Free Complete Dog Food for Your Dog with Allergies

P.S. Grain-Free Complete Dog Food is clearly one of the best hypoallergenic dog foods available without a prescription, and its formula is designed to address skin and coat issues in several different ways.

It wont work for all dogs, but the vast majority of owners reported that it was very effective for their pet. The only real drawback to the food is its high price.

View Latest PriceView Latest Price

Rachael Ray Nutrish Just 6 is a limited ingredient dry dog food, primarily based on six items. It is an excellent choice for owners who are looking for one of the top dog foods for allergies available, or those who simply like to feed their dog food that doesnt contain a lot of unnecessary ingredients.

Notable Qualities and Features:

• Made without corn, wheat, soy or gluten
• Completely free of poultry by-products
• Contains no artificial flavors or preservatives
• Made in the USA

Top Ingredients:

Lamb Meal, Brown Rice, Ground Rice, Dried Plain Beet Pulp, Natural Chicken Flavor, Poultry Fat (preserved with Mixed Tocopherols), Sodium Chloride, Potassium Chloride, Di-Calcium Phosphate, Zinc Proteinate, L-Ascorbyl-2-Polyphosphate (Source of Vitamin C), Vitamin E Supplement

Rachael Ray Nutrish Just 6 Reviews: What Are People Saying About It?

Most owners who tried Rachael Ray Nutrish Just 6 were very pleased with the product. Most reported that it helped to soothe their dogs skin and many dogs who had trouble digesting other foods were able to eat this without any problem. The most common complaints related to palatability concerns, but most dogs seemed to love the taste.

What makes this the Best Food for Dogs with Soy Allergies?

Why should you pick this for your dog? It is made without corn, wheat, soy or gluten. More importantly, it is completely free of poultry by-products. It contains no artificial flavors or preservatives and for those who want to buy American, it is made in the USA. This makes it a perfect dog food for dogs with many of the most common allergies, and all-around a high protein food that is very healthy for any pup.

Who is this Hypoallergenic Dog Food Best For?

• Dogs with Soy Allergies
• Dogs with Sensitive Stomachs
• Dogs with Digestive Problems
• Dogs with IBS
• Dogs with Multiple Food Allergies

Bottom Line:Why You Should Consider Rachael Ray Nutrish Just 6 Dog Food for Your Dog with Allergies

Rachael Ray Nutrish Just 6 is a good choice for owners who want a dog food for allergies that is also easy for dogs to digest. Made without the common allergens, this dry food appeared to help alleviate a wide variety of health problems from dog food allergies and food intolerances to IBS.

View Latest PriceView Latest Price

Wellness Simple Natural Limited Ingredient Dog Food is a nutritious and delicious recipe, which is comprised of a relatively small number of primary ingredients. This makes it a helpful choice for many dogs who suffer from food allergies.

Notable Qualities and Features:

• Made with all-natural ingredients
• Contains no gluten, wheat or artificial additives
• Made with a single protein source (lamb and lamb meal)
• Made in the USA

Top Ingredients:

Ground Rice, Lamb, Lamb Meal, Canola Oil (preserved with mixed tocopherols, a natural source of Vitamin E), Tomato Pomace, Dicalcium Phosphate, Potassium Chloride, Vitamins [Vitamin E Supplement, Beta-Carotene, Niacin, d-Calcium Pantothenate, Vitamin A Supplement, Riboflavin, Vitamin B-12 Supplement

Wellness Simple Natural Limited Ingredient Reviews: What Are People Saying About It?

The user reviews for Wellness Simple Limited Ingredient Dog Food are overwhelmingly positive. Most owners reported that the recipe not only relieved their dogs sensitive skin, but it helped improve their elimination habits and a few owners even reported improved energy levels. Additionally, the recipe appears very palatable to dogs, so you shouldnt have any issues getting your pet to switch foods.

What makes this the Best Food for Dogs with Beef Allergies?

Not only is it made with all-natural ingredients, but it has no gluten, wheat or artificial additives. Moreover, dogs suffering from beef or fish allergies can rest easy, as this limited ingredient dog food is made with a single protein source (lamb and lamb meal). On top of all this, its made right here in the USA.

Who is this Dog Food Best For?

• Dogs with Beef Allergies
• Dogs with Chicken Allergies
• Dogs with Fish Allergies

Bottom Line: Why You Should Consider Wellness Simple Natural Limited Ingredient Dog Food for Your Dog with Allergies

The bottom line is that if your dog has an allergy to beef, chicken, fish, even eggs, this dog food will give your furry family friend a lamb based protein source exclusively doing away with extra additives or multiple protein sources. Its slightly troubling that rice leads the ingredient list instead of lamb and wed have liked to see probiotics included in the recipe.

However, Wellness Simple Limited Ingredient Dog Food is clearly one of the best dog foods for skin allergies on the market, and its priced very reasonably, given its quality. It deserves serious consideration by any owner trying to address dog food allergies or skin and coat problems.

View Latest PriceView Latest Price

CANIDAE Grain-Free PURE Dog Food is a limited-ingredient diet that is formulated from seven primary, whole foods to help alleviate problems with food allergies. This recipe includes two primary proteins, which are both typically good options for dogs with food allergies.

Notable Qualities and Features:

• Bison is the first listed ingredient
• Fortified with five probiotics to support healthy digestion
• Made without corn, wheat or other grains

Top Ingredients:

Bison, lamb meal, sweet potatoes, peas, chickpeas, canola oil, sun-cured alfalfa, natural flavor, minerals (iron proteinate, zinc proteinate, copper proteinate, ferrous sulfate, zinc sulfate, copper sulfate, potassium iodide, manganese proteinate, manganous oxide, manganese sulfate, sodium selenite)

CANIDAE Grain-Free PURE Dog Food Reviews: What Are People Saying About It?

Most owners reported great results after switching to CANIDAE Grain Free PURE Dog Food. It not only helped to alleviate the itchy skin from which many dogs suffered, but it also helped to promote proper digestion and regular eliminations. Most owners also reported that their pet seemed to love the taste.

Want to learn more about CANIDAE Dog Food?

This complete CANIDAE Dog Food Review has everything you need to know about the brand, its products, and if it is right for your dog.

What makes this the Best Dog Food for Wheat allergies?

Bison is the first listed ingredient, and it is fortified with five probiotics to support healthy digestion. Moreover, it is made without corn, wheat or other grains which makes it applicable to a wider range of dog allergy issues.

Who is this Dog Food Best For?

• Dogs With Wheat Allergies
• Dogs With Grian Allergies
• Dogs With Corn Allergies

Bottom Line: Why You Should Consider CANIDAE Grain-Free PURE for Your Dog with Allergies

CANIDAEs Grain-Free PURE Dog Food contains more ingredients than many other hypoallergenic dog food options, but it still appeared to alleviate most dogs food allergy problems.

Wed have preferred if the recipe only included one protein, but lamb and bison are typically good novel proteins. This isnt as big of a problem as it would be if the proteins were more common items, such as chicken and beef.

View Latest PriceView Latest Price

About: Instinct Limited Ingredient Grain-Free Recipe is a high-quality hypoallergenic dog food designed to keep dogs nourished without including any of the most common allergic triggers. However, despite being a limited ingredient diet, it includes a number of rarely incorporated yet health-supporting items, such as freeze-dried organ meats and pumpkin seeds.

Notable Qualities and Features:

• Doesnt contain any grains, dairy, eggs, chicken, beef, fish, sweet potato, potato, chickpeas, or soy
• Free of artificial additives, colors, and preservatives
• Made in the USA

Top Ingredients:

Lamb Meal, Peas, Tapioca, Pea Protein, Canola Oil (preserved with Mixed Tocopherols and Citric Acid), Lamb, Natural Flavor, Montmorillonite Clay, Coconut Oil, Salt, Vitamins (Vitamin E Supplement, L-Ascorbyl-2-Polyphosphate, Niacin Supplement, Thiamine Mononitrate, d-Calcium Pantothenate, Vitamin A Supplement

Instinct Limited Ingredient Grain-Free Recipe: What Are People Saying About It?

Most dog owners were very happy with Instinct Limited Ingredient Grain Free dog food and reported that it helped to alleviate their dogs itchy skin. Most dogs appear to love the taste, likely because of the meats included at the end of the ingredient list.

What makes this the Best Limited Ingredient Food for Egg Allergies?

It doesnt contain any grains, dairy, eggs, chicken, beef, fish, sweet potato, potato, chickpeas, or soy. It is also free of artificial additives, colors, and preservatives.

Who is this Limited Ingredient Dog Food Best For?

• Dogs With Egg Allergies
• Dogs With Soy Allergies
• Dogs With Dairy Allergies
• Dogs With Grain Allergies
• Dogs With Beef Allergies
• Dogs With Fish Allergies
• Dogs With Chicken Allergies

Bottom Line: Why You Should Consider Instant Limited Ingredient for Your Dog with Allergies

Wed have liked to see this hypoallergenic recipe include real lamb meat at the top of the limited ingredient list, but the organ meats help offset this concern somewhat. As long as your dog doesnt turn out to be allergic to lamb, this dog food will likely help put an end to his itchy sensitive skin, as it avoids some of the triggers (such as potatoes, dairy, and eggs), which are still contained in many other LID foods.

View Latest PriceView Latest Price

Forza10 Dermo Active Dry Dog Food is meant for dogs who have a sensitive stomach and are in need of a hypoallergenic diet. It enhances dog health and well-being.

Notable Features:

• It is rich in fish protein and omega 3 fatty acids.
• Contains no GMOs, no gluten and is free from any artificial colors or flavors.
• It is hydrolyzed dog food to ensure no reaction with respect to the immune system.
• Uses fruit extracts for an enhanced taste.

Top ingredients:

Potatoes, anchovy meal, vegetable and fish oil, dried beet pulp, hydrolyzed fish protein, hydrolyzed potato protein, FOS, dried yeast, cholie chloride, DL-methionine, yucca schidigera extract, aloe vera gel concentrate, rosemary.

Minerals calcium carbonate, dicalcium phosphate, zinc sulfate, copper glycine chelate, Vitamins vitamin E supplement, ascorbic acid, vitamin B12 supplement, niacin supplement, vital A supplement, calcium pantothenate riboflavin supplement, pyridoxine hydrochloride, thiamine mononitrate, folic acid.

Forza10 Dermo Active Dry Dog Food Review: What are people saying about it?

Buyers appreciate the use of natural ingredients that not only enhances the taste of this product but also adds to its nutrient value.

What makes it an ideal food for your dog?

It uses wild-caught Anchovies that are rich in Omega-3 fatty acids along with pomegranate which is a rich source of antioxidants to prevent tissue degeneration. For an improved immunity system, it uses papaya which also helps in reducing oxidative stress. To combat inflammation, cancer etc it is endowed with the goodness of aloe vera.

Want to learn more about Forza 10?

It was founded by Dr. Canello who is a veterinarian and an international expert on food intolerances back in 1995. Their science-backed recipes made with the help of their research team have helped millions of pets around the world. They ensure that their products are safe to use and also delicious in taste to ensure long services to their customers.

Bottom-line: This food is for you if your dog is dealing with some health concerns related to allergies. Incorporating grain-free food in your dogs diet can help improve skin health and prevent any skin and health problems in the long run. Also, there are multiple ways in which this product can be introduced to your pets diet. It wont take a long time before your dog gets used to eating and enjoying the delicious recipes made from this product.

View Latest PriceView Latest Price

There are four different varieties that fall under this manufacturer one of which is the grain-free turkey and potato recipe. All four recipes have limited ingredients without chicken or chicken meal so you can choose the fish version if you prefer.

Top Ingredients:

Turkey, Turkey Broth, Potatoes, Flaxseed (source of Omega 3 and 6 Fatty Acids), Pea Protein, Fish Oil (source of Omega 3 Fatty Acids), Pumpkin, Guar Gum, Potassium Chloride, Salt, Carrageenan, Cassia Gum, Cranberries, Blueberries, Choline Chloride,

Blue Buffalo Basics Limited Ingredient Diet, Grain Free: What Are People Saying About It?

Dog owners are saying that the food has helped reduce the number of ear infections and skin infections in their dogs with more complicated allergies. Dogs seem to love the taste and the limited ingredients do well to ease the otherwise easily upset stomachs.

What makes this the Best Limited Ingredient Food for Chicken allergies?

This limited ingredient food uses a single animal protein source as well as pumpkin, peas, and potatoes to gently support the digestive tract of your dog without any grains or gluten.

There is no chicken (or chicken meal), beef, corn, wheat, soy, dairy or egg which makes it an ideal solution for dogs that have sensitive stomachs.

More importantly, it is formulated with all of the essential carbohydrates and proteins necessary to promote an active and healthy lifestyle.

Who is this Limited Ingredient Dog Food Best For?

• Dogs With Corn Allergies
• Dogs With Soy Allergies
• Dogs With Wheat Allergies
• Dogs With Animal Protein Allergies

Bottom Line: Why You Should Consider Blue Buffalo Basics Limited Ingredient Diet for Your Dog with Allergies

This dry dog food is formulated for the overall well-being and health of your dog with only the finest natural ingredients, no by-products, artificial flavors, or preservatives. It is very gentle on sensitive stomachs and has limited ingredients so even the most complicated of dog allergies can still get by with this food.

View Latest Price

What is Hypoallergenic Dog Food?

Dog foods for specifically for treating allergies typically come in two different versions:

1. Limited Ingredient Dog Food

As it turns out, dogs tend to be allergic to a relatively small number of common ingredients. This includes things like chicken, dairy, eggs, beef, and fish, as well as corn or wheat.

Limited ingredient dog food (often abbreviated LIDs) are typically made without these ingredients. In fact, theyre generally made with relatively few ingredients at all and are often grain-free.

Limited ingredient dog food generally feature an unusual protein (often called a novel protein, as your dog is unlikely to have eaten it before, and therefore it will not trigger an allergic reaction).

Such foods, like salmon, also generally include low-risk carbohydrates (rice, for example, rarely triggers allergic reactions in dogs) and a small number of fruits and vegetables to supply the vitamin and mineral content.

Limited ingredient dog foods are often the first option for owners of dogs with food allergies. They frequently provide relief of skin allergies, dont require a prescription, and are usually priced comparably to typical premium dog foods.

Note that while limited ingredient diets are often helpful for treating dogs with food allergies, and theyre often marketed as hypoallergenic dog foods, they can still trigger allergic reactions if your dog happens to be allergic to one of the included ingredients.

2. Dog Food Made with Hydrolyzed Proteins

The only truly hypoallergenic dog food is one made with hydrolyzed proteins. Hydrolyzed proteins have been chemically altered to change the size and shape of the constituent protein molecules.

This helps prevent the immune system from recognizing the offending common allergen and prevent the allergic response from happening. Like limited ingredient diets, these recipes typically feature low-risk carbohydrates like rice.

Typically, foods with hydrolyzed proteins are very effective in treating dog food allergies. But, they present two significant challenges:

1. Many foods with hydrolyzed proteins are only available with a veterinary prescription. There are a few over-the-counter options available, but most are only available with your vets assistance.
2. Whether they are available over the counter or require a prescription, hydrolyzed protein foods are often quite expensive sometimes prohibitively so.

If youd like to try a hydrolyzed protein food for your dog, wed recommendRoyal Canin HP Hypoallergenic Hydrolyzed Protein Dog Food. However, most owners will likely prefer to try a limited ingredient recipe first, given the lower price point.

What Makes the Best Dog Food for Allergies?

Its important to understand that dog foods are only hypoallergenic if they feature hydrolyzed proteins or they dont contain ingredients that commonly act as an allergic trigger in a dogs diet.

Because hydrolyzed protein foods are not widely available without a prescription and cost significantly more than typical dog foods, weve selected only limited ingredient dog foods for our recommendations.

Nevertheless, these hypoallergenic dog food brands are some of the best choices on the market for dogs with all types of allergies.

Consider these trusted limited ingredient dog food brands to help your dog avoid allergic reactions to their foods.

Who Should Buy a Dog Food for Allergies?

Dog food allergies occur when a dogs immune system mistakes a harmless ingredient for a dangerous one.

This causes the body to release antibodies to fight off the invader, and these in turn release histamines, which cause allergic reactions such as inflammation, itchy skin, irritation, and stomach problems.

Histamines lead to sensitive skin allergy symptoms like skin redness, swelling and most commonly for dogs who suffer from food allergies itchy skin.

RELATED:Everything You Need to Know About Food Allergies In Dogs

To treat food allergies and help your dog feel better, youll need to identify the problematic ingredient through anelimination-challengediet.

Once identified, this ingredient can be avoided when selecting a new dog food. This should stop the allergic reaction and allow your pet to enjoy some relief from skin allergies.

However, for a variety of reasons, it can sometimes be difficult to determine the ingredient that causes your dogs problems. In such cases, youll need to select a hypoallergenic or limited ingredient dog food.

How Do I Know My Dog Has A Food Allergy?

If your pet is having allergic reactions, there will be certain symptoms. As a responsible pet owner, you must identify the symptom and take the necessary steps.

To begin, more than its stomach, an allergic reaction will be revealed through its skin. It will have itchy skin, and its coat will become dull.

Besides, its underbelly will have red patches and bronze color around the lips. Plus, it may have watery eyes and ear infections. Its nail beds will also become reddish or brownish.

So, if you find these symptoms in your dog, it is better to consult your vet.

Most Common Allergens in Dog Food

If you own a dog, you will agree that our furry friend loves to eat almost everything we consume daily. But some common food items that are good for us may be problematic for your dog.

Unfortunately, dogs can get allergies. They get it from the most common foods that they love. Interestingly, these food items are often present in their diet.

But continuous consumption of dog foods with similar ingredients can lead to intolerance or allergy.

What Are The Common Allergens In Dog Food?

Lets quickly have a look at the common allergens that can impact your dogs health.

1. Meat products

Although meat is good for a dog, meat products based on beef and chicken are considered allergens. This is due to the presence of proteins in these products. Therefore, a dog can be allergic to these meat-based foods when consumed for a long time.

2. Dairy Products

Dogs are often intolerant to lactose, which is found in every dairy product. This can lead to abdominal disturbance and result in vomiting, gas formation, and diarrhea. These digestive issues should be treated promptly, as they can cause serious problems.

3. Soybeans

Although it is a great source of protein, soybeans can be potential allergens. So, you should not give soy to your dog. Instead, you should look out for those dog foods which will maintain their health.

4. Egg

Again, an egg is a great source of protein and should work perfectly for your dog. But eggs have a specific kind of protein that is difficult for your dog to digest. They can trigger allergic reactions in your dog.

5. Pork

Although pork meat contains a lot of proteins, it also has dangerous parasites in eat. So, dogs cant eat raw meat when it comes to pork meat. In this case, the parasites present in the meat can be a dangerous allergen for your canine buddy!

6. Wheat

Wheat-based protein is also harmful to your dog. So, it is better to avoid dog food consumption with wheat grains or wheat in it, as they can trigger allergic reactions.

Additionally, food items like rabbit meat and fish are also considered to be unfavorable to a dog. These food items can also cause allergies in dogs.

Common Causes Of Food Allergies In Dogs?

Food allergies are very common among dogs. If you have a canine friend, you must know that certain food items do not suit it. So, you must be wondering what the causes of food allergies are. So, lets find out more.

Why Do Food Allergies Happen?

In dogs, food allergies happen when a specific ingredient of its food raises a response in their immune system. While protein is believed to be the major culprit here, grains can also trigger similar reactions.

There are mainly two reasons behind food allergies.

Intolerance Towards Certain Food Items

Food intolerance can result in gastrointestinal problems. This happens when your dog cannot properly digest the food it eats. These problems include diarrhea, gas, acidity, and stress, and these conditions can seriously affect your dog if left untreated.

The Immune Response Of Your Dogs Body

In dogs, allergies can happen from meats of chicken and beef due to their complex proteins. This causes reactions in a dogs digestive system. The response against these foreign particles (also known as allergens) causes allergies.

This kind of allergy can also arise from wheat products (gluten), dairy products, and eggs.

How to Choose a Dog Food for Allergies

When looking for the best dog food allergies, youll want to look for a product that satisfies the following criteria:

1. Limited Ingredients
2. Novel Proteins
3. Single Protein Formula
4. No Unnecessary Additives
5. Made in the USA or Trusted Country
6. Food Intolerance vs. Food Allergy

Making sure you find a dog food that meets these standards will help you to make sure that you choose the best meal for your pooch.

1. Limited Slate of Ingredients

The fewer ingredients contained in a dog food, the lower the odds are that one of those ingredients will trigger an allergic reaction from your dog. Its still important to provide your dog with all of the vitamins, minerals, fatty acids and calories they need, so be sure to select only high-quality, nutritious foods that have been formulated to provide complete and balanced nutrition.

2. Novel Proteins

The best limited ingredient diet options are made with unusual protein sources, to which your dog has not developed an allergy. Some of the most common examples include kangaroo, lamb, rabbit, salmon, venison and bison/buffalo.

3. Single Protein Dog Food Formula

In the interest of limiting your dogs exposure to a common allergen, most hypoallergenic dog foods are made with only a single protein source. However, multiple protein sources are not necessarily a problem if they are both from novel sources. For example, youll want to avoid foods that contain chicken and beef, but lamb and bison or salmon and rabbit are probably not a problem.

4. No Unnecessary Additives

Although it isnt very common, some dogs suffer from allergic reactions when exposed to artificial additives, such as artificial colors, flavors or preservatives. Accordingly, most high-quality hypoallergenic dog food is made without these types of items. Generally speaking, youll want to avoid foods that contain anything unnecessary.

5. Made in a Country with High Safety- and Quality-Control Standards

The best hypoallergenic dog food brands are based in the US, Canada, Australia, New Zealand or Western Europe, as these countries maintain stricter quality-control and safety standards than many others.

This is especially important for owners seeking a quality dog food for skin allergies, as low-quality manufacturers often produce foods that contain tainted ingredients.

For example, the manufacturer may make a batch of standard dog food and then switch to making a hypoallergenic alternative.

However, if they failed to properly sterilize the machinery between batches, the hypoallergenic food may contain trace amounts of your dogs trigger. This could be enough to counteract the benefits provided by the allergy dog food.

6. Know the Difference Between Food Allergy and Food Intolerance

Its important to know the difference between a food allergy and a food intolerance. A food allergy is something that causes a severe physiological reaction usually the result of genetics.

For example: A dog that is intolerant of wheat has trouble digesting it, breaking it down, and processing it and it can lead to a histamine reaction but a dog with a gluten allergy has a genetic condition that prevents its body from doing so. With serious allergies, you want to take good care of your dog by avoiding the allergen entirely.

An intolerance may put a strain on the system as well, but if there are dog foods processed in facilities with the allergen in question, the slightest bit of exposure wont be as harmful to a dog with an intolerance compared to a dog with a severe allergy.

Also Read: 13 Big Dogs That Dont Shed A Lot

FAQs

Have even more questions about your dogs food allergies in order to find the best hypoallergenic dog food? Weve got answers:

Q. What dog breeds have allergies frequently?

Ans: All dog breeds have the potential to suffer from some form of allergy. Whats more important is the breeding quality and standards. If you are looking for a new dog to add to your home, make sure you get it from a reputable breeder and that you know its family history. Your family health history is important in determining what potential allergies you might have down the line, and so are your dogs.

Q. What Type of Dog Allergies are there?

Ans: There are a lot of dog allergies out there, but the most common include food allergies. Of these, you might have a family friend with an allergy to: Soy Gluten Fish Chicken Beef Eggs Dairy

Q. How can you tell what your dog is allergic to?

Ans: In most cases, you will have to do an elimination to figure out what your dog is allergic to. If you see the signs of an allergic reaction, those of a histamine reaction, you can narrow down what it was in the environment during the food that your dog may have responded to. The most common reactions for dogs include: Scratching at their paws or ears, indicative of itching Skin rashes Gastrointestinal problems

Q. What causes dogs to have food allergies?

Ans: Dogs that have food allergies are typically allergic to the proteins in the food and that can be plant proteins or animal proteins. Proteins for your dog just the same as for yourself get broken down into molecules and sent throughout the body. But sometimes the body misidentifies certain protein molecules and sees them as a potential threat and when that happens it initiates an allergic reaction.

Q. What is the best dog food for dogs with skin allergies?

Ans: If your dog has skin allergies, the best food is really going to be the one your dog responds to successfully. Again, its important to do an elimination diet and to test different foods with the health of your veterinarian to figure out which one works best for your sweet dog.

Q. How can you tell if your dog is allergic to food?

Ans: Realistically, the best way to tell if your dog is allergic to food is to monitor them when they eat to see if they did it signs of a reaction. These include the same allergic reaction symptoms that you might face such as itching or sneezing. On a dog, you might notice itching paws, skin rashes, pigmented skin, or hot spots.

Q. What is the best dog food for dogs with digestive problems?

Ans: If your dog suffers from digestive problems, you will want to limit their diet to foods that have fewer ingredients. The fewer ingredients in the dog food, the faster you and your dog will be able to go through an elimination diet to find the main culprit.

Q. Whats the best dog food for dogs with itchy skin?

Ans: This is going to be based on the type of dog you have. The best dog food if your dog has itchy skin is going to be one that doesnt have the allergen causing the skin issues.Itching skin is one of the most common symptoms of an allergic reaction to dog food. So if you notice your dog exhibiting the symptoms, you will have to work carefully to undergo an elimination process to figure out what ingredient is causing an allergic reaction. Then you can find dog food that doesnt have those ingredients.

Q. Is salmon dog food good for dogs with allergies?

Ans: This depends entirely on the allergen that is causing so much anxiety for your dog. If your dog is allergic to beef protein, salmon would be a good alternative. Of course, if your dog is allergic to fish, you want to steer clear of salmon.

Q. What is the most common food allergy in dogs?

Ans: The most common food allergies include animal-based protein allergies. Dog food allergies have to do with either a plant-based protein or an animal-based protein and in most cases, if your dog has an allergy its probably allergic to more than one thing. It might be allergic to beef and wheat or chicken and soy.

Q. What are the symptoms of wheat allergy in dogs?

Ans: The most common symptoms of wheat allergies include itchiness which presents itself in the form of your dog excessively scratching over its body, licking itself, even biting at its paws. You might also notice chronic skin infections or ear infections.

Q. What is the best protein for dogs with allergies?

Ans: This depends on the type of protein to that your dog is allergic to. Most of the time food allergies in dogs are caused by an allergic reaction to a protein either a plant protein or an animal-based protein. So, if your dog suffers from a beef protein allergy the best protein source would be something other than beef. This is something you will have to figure out with your dogs specifically.

Q. What can I feed my dog to stop itching?

Ans: If your dog is excessively itching, it may be a sign of an allergic reaction. You will have to work hard to go through an elimination process in order to find out what ingredient in your current dog food is causing the reaction. Once you have that you can find a dog food that does not contain the allergens.

Q. Is grain-free dog food good for allergies?

Ans: Grain-free dog food is good for dogs with grain allergies. Dogs typically have food allergies to either a plant-based protein or an animal-based protein. If your dog is allergic to plant-based proteins and has trouble breaking down grain, a grain-free dog food is going to be the best solution.

Q. How can you tell if your dog is allergic to dog food?

Ans: You can tell if your dog is allergic to his food if they exhibit symptoms of an allergic reaction. The biggest symptom of an allergic reaction is itching. Obviously your furry pet cant tell you if it has an itch but youll know as soon as they start to excessively scratch, look at their paws, even bite themselves. You might also notice skin blotchiness or irritation, as well as chronic ear infections.

Q. Which hypoallergenic dog food is the best?

Ans: Some hypoallergenic dog foods that perfectly fulfill your dogs requirements are Rachael Ray Nutrish Just 6, Forza10 Dermo Dog Food for Allergies and Itching, CANIDAE Grain-Free PURE Dog Food, P.S. Grain Free Dog Food, and Instinct Limited Ingredient Grain-Free Recipe.

Q. What food is best for dogs with itchy skin?

Ans: Natural food like red beet is probably the best way to deal with your dogs itchy skin. It can deal with your dogs itchiness, skin allergies, and inflammation. In addition, oatmeal, apple cider vinegar, green tea, and chamomile tea are also great solutions to deal with your dogs itchiness.

Q. What is the number 1 food allergy in dogs?

Ans: Proteins from meat like beef and chicken are the most common reason behind food allergies in a dog. Since beef and chicken are found in almost every dog food, they are the most common allergen.

Q. Is salmon and sweet potato good for dogs with allergies?

Ans: Yes and no. While salmon is beneficial for dogs with allergies, sweet potato is not. The proteins present in salmon are good for dogs that suffer from food allergies. They are a good option for dogs sensitive to normal proteins.On the other hand, sweet potato has a lot of starch. So, while it can be given to your dog daily, it should not be more than 10% of its total diet. Besides, it is not a very valuable food item if your dog has allergies.

Q. What meat are dogs most allergic to?

Ans: You may find it hard to believe, but dogs can be allergic to chicken and beef. While most dogs consume these meats, meat proteins in dogs can cause allergies.To cite an instance, a study was conducted in 2016 by Biomedical Central Veterinary Research. In that study, it was found that more than 1 in 3 three dogs have allergies to beef.

Q. How do I know if my dog is allergic to his food?

Ans: The easiest way to ascertain if your dog is pregnant is to look at its skin conditions. First, there will be acute itchiness, and you will find that your dog is vehemently scratching itself. Besides, there will be liaisons in the skin, and they may also have frequent ear infections.

Q. What ingredient in dog food makes them itch?

Ans: The chief ingredients that can make a dog itch are dog foods that contain grains. In addition, milk and other dairy product can have the same effect on your dog. Finally, cereals like corn, maize, and wheat often have gluten and are harmful to your dog.Besides, it has also been noticed that some gluten-based food items, and in some cases, soy, lamb, and eggs, can also cause itching in dogs.

Final Words

Want to learn even more about nutrition for dogs, including the best foods, tips, tricks, and more?

At CanineWeekly, we are constantly creating new and informational content to help you be a better owner, and help your dog live a happier, healthier life.

Our blog has tons of resources on dog nutrition, to help you learn everything you need to keep your little buddy in shape and enjoying their meals.

You May Also Like:

Forrest is a lover of dogs, the wild outdoors, deep mysterious conversations and coffee. He is the owner of several websites, including Canine Weekly. He resides in Austin, Texas.