Just like humans, dogs can suffer from allergies, leading to various skin issues that can be challenging to handle. These allergies may stem from environmental factors or the food they consume. When it comes to your furry friend’s health, choosing the best dog food for allergies is crucial
Allergy Symptoms
Typically, allergens are proteins that, upon absorption in the intestinal tract, can trigger an immune response, resulting in skin issues. Occasionally, dogs may also exhibit symptoms resembling inflammatory bowel disease, such as persistent diarrhea, vomiting, and reduced appetite.
The most frequent signs of dog food allergies include:
- Skin redness in the inner ears
- Persistent ear itching (frequent scratching or head shaking)
- Ear hematomas
- Persistent ear thickening
- Recurrent ear infections
- Redness and itchiness in the feet or between toes (paw licking)
- Persistent pododermatitis
- Spotty hair loss around the neck and body
- Persistent skin infections (bacterial or yeast) that resist treatment
Best Dog Food For Allergies And Infections
Best dog food for skin allergies (Dried-Form): Royal Canin
Food allergies generally arise when the immune system reacts to a protein in the food, as noted by Pucheu-Haston. To reduce the likelihood of an immune response, the poultry proteins in this Royal Canin hydrolyzed dry food are fragmented into minuscule, amino-acid-sized fragments. This formulation contains vitamins and omega-3 fatty acids that enhance a lustrous coat and healthy skin, along with a combination of fibers that aid in digestive health, as per the manufacturer. Veterinarians declared it as the best dog food for skin allergies.
Best dog food for allergies (Wet-form): Hills
For dogs inclined towards wet food or those with limited water intake, this canned adult dog food utilizes hydrolyzed chicken liver to minimize immune responses. The wet food alternative also aids in alleviating skin irritation and enhancing digestion and stool consistency, as stated by the manufacturer. This prescription diet is available in 12-ounce cans.
Best dog food for allergies (environmental): Blue Buffalo
Diet plans for healthy skin are fortified with fatty acids, known to alleviate inflammation. It also enhances skin wellness and fortifies the skin barrier. This over-the-counter kibble choice from Blue Buffalo contains omega-3 and -6 fatty acids sourced from deboned salmon, salmon meal, and fish oil. Additionally, it excludes wheat and soy, two prevalent allergens in dogs, thus ranked among the best dog foods for allergies.
Best dog food for allergies with novel protein blend: Blue Buffalo
Unique diets can effectively address food allergies, especially unconventional choices such as rabbit, kangaroo, or alligator. Blue Buffalo offers a novel protein source using alligator in this formula. The blend is enhanced with fish oil and flaxseed to deliver crucial omega-3 fatty acids, supporting skin and coat wellness, as stated by the brand.
Best dog food for allergies (Plant-based): Open Farm
Pucheu-Haston notes that chicken, beef, and dairy often provoke food allergies in dogs. Open Farm’s plant-based formula opts for sweet potato, fava beans, and whole-grain barley instead of these typical meat proteins. Additionally, the recipe sources omega fatty acids from flaxseed, sunflower, and coconut oil rather than fish, ensuring pups with fish allergies can still enjoy this food.
Best dog food for allergies (Fresh Form): JustFoodForDogs
According to the brand, this fresh-food adult formula is prepared in a kitchen, free from gluten, grains, preservatives, and growth hormones. Lamb serves as its sole animal protein source, which may be novel for some dogs but could cross-react in those with beef allergies, notes Pucheu-Haston.
Additionally, the recipe includes Icelandic fish oil for omega-3 fatty acids and safflower oil for omega-6 fatty acids, promoting healthy skin, as outlined on the brand’s website. JustFoodForDogs suggests defrosting the frozen food in the refrigerator in a glass or plastic container before serving it to your pup.
Best dog food for allergies (Budget-friendly): Wellness
Utilizing lamb as its sole meat-protein source, this grain-free dry food offers limited ingredients. The formula features stomach-friendly carbohydrates and includes probiotics for aiding digestion, as indicated on the brand’s website. Additionally, it contains skin-soothing nutrients such as omega fatty acids and glucosamine, which also contribute to skin health, according to the brand. While glucosamine is commonly included in diets to support joint health, Paterson notes its additional benefits for the skin.
Best dog food for skin or yeast infections: Royal Canin Veterinary Diet
This specialized diet from Royal Canin is formulated to address skin or yeast infections in dogs. With hydrolyzed proteins that are broken down into smaller molecules, it reduces the risk of triggering allergic reactions. Enriched with omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids, it supports skin health and helps alleviate discomfort associated with infections. Additionally, its hypoallergenic formula excludes common allergens like beef, chicken, wheat, and soy, making it suitable for sensitive dogs.
Best dog food for allergies with sensitive stomach: Hill’s Prescription Diet
Formulated for dogs with sensitive stomachs, this diet by Hill’s Prescription Diet focuses on minimizing allergic reactions and promoting digestive health. With its unique protein source and highly digestible ingredients, it helps manage skin and food sensitivities effectively.
Best dog food for allergies with hydrolyzed protein: Purina Pro Plan
For dogs with severe allergies, hydrolyzed protein diets like this one from Purina Pro Plan are recommended. The hydrolyzed proteins are broken down into smaller molecules, making them less likely to trigger an allergic response. This formula is designed to support skin health and alleviate symptoms of food sensitivities and intolerances.
Final Thoughts
Canine allergies can be triggered by ingredients such as beef, chicken, lamb, wheat, soy, eggs, corn, and nuts. Ensuring your canine companion’s diet caters to their skin health is paramount. From novel protein blends to hypoallergenic formulas, these top 10 dog foods for skin allergies and infections offer relief and support. Consult your veterinarian to determine the best option for your furry friend’s specific needs and enjoy watching them thrive!
