Home Top 10 Hypoallergenic Dog Food (Review)

Top 10 Hypoallergenic Dog Food (Review)

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Jack russell or small dog breeds on white background and eats food laid out in the form of the word "eat"Food allergy is among the most common problems dogs are faced with, and this leaves many pet owners unsure of how to go about it. Considering the potential for the severity of reactions, it is vital to ensure that sensitive dogs are only fed with alternative hypoallergenic recipes that do not contain allergens.

However, the presence of untrustworthy hypoallergenic dog food manufacturers on the market jeopardizes the health of allergic dogs, as it is difficult for dog owners to differentiate between good quality and substandard quality pup diets. The following reviews feature the leading trusted quality hypoallergenic dog food recipes that are safe for dogs susceptible to food allergic reactions. The compilation, together with a detailed guide,will help you in choosing the ideal hypoallergenic dog food recipe for your pup.

Purina Pro Plan Sensitive Skin and Sensitive Stomach Dry Dog Food

Our Top Choice:

Purina special limited food for sensitive dogs is a best-selling diet that is endorsed by vets for dogs with sensitive stomach and skin. The diet benefits pups both internally and externally as it not only strengthens the immune system but also restores the luster of the skin.
It features all organic constituents and is a rich source of vitamins and proteins. Also, this dog food hypoallergenic diet contains prebiotics that helps in the digestive process. With these as included in the constituents, both digestion and absorption of nutrients are conveniently fast.

Comparison Table

Features:
Our Rating:
Buy from:
Purina Pro Plan Sensitive Skin and Sensitive Stomach Dry Dog Food
Purina Pro Plan Sensitive Skin Dog Food
  • Contains antioxidants
  • Features prebiotics
  • All organic constituents
  • Contains salmon as the main entrée
4.9
Hill's Science Diet Dry Dog Food, Adult, Sensitive Stomach & Skin Recipes
Hill’s Science Diet Dry Dog Food
  • Rich in vitamins and amino acids
  • Contains antioxidants
  • Boosts immunity
  • Easy-to-digest
4.8
Diamond Naturals Skin & Coat Real Meat Recipe Dry Dog Food with Wild Caught Salmon
Diamond Naturals Skin & Coat Real Meat Recipe
  • Features prebiotics
  • Contains antioxidants
  • No artificial additives
  • Boosts immunity
4.8
Blue Buffalo Basics Limited Ingredient Diet, Natural Adult Dry Dog Food
Blue Buffalo Basics Limited Ingredient Diet
  • Features salmon as the main entrée
  • Rich in vitamins
  • Features antioxidants
  • Restores skin health
4.7
Simply Perfection Super Premium Lamb and Brown Rice Recipe
Simply Perfection Super Premium Lamb and Brown Rice Recipe
  • Features lamb as the main entrée
  • All constituents are organic
  • Features antioxidants
  • Boosts immunity
4.7
Diamond CARE Specialized Diets Dry Dog Food to Support Health Issues with Weight Management, Sensitive Skin, or Sensitive Stomach
Diamond CARE Specialized Diets Dry Dog Food
  • Restores skin health
  • Contains salmon
  • Rich in amino acids
  • Easy on the stomach
4.7
Canine Caviar Limited Ingredient Diet Free Spirit Holistic Entrée All Life Stages Dry Dog Food
Canine Caviar Limited Ingredient Alkaline Holistic Dog Food
  • Conveniently sized chunks
  • The diet is gluten-free
  • Contains antioxidants
  • Boosts immunity
4.6
Royal Canin Canine Care Nutrition Sensitive Skin Care Dry Dog Food
Royal Canin Canine Care Nutrition Sensitive Skin
  • The diet is easy on the stomach
  • It’s rich in vitamins
  • Restores coat luster
  • Reinforces the immune system
4.6
AvoDerm Natural Lamb Meal & Brown Rice Formula Dry Dog Food
AvoDerm Natural Dry & Wet Dog Food
  • Features antioxidants
  • All ingredients are organic
  • Restores skin health
  • Strengthens the immune system
4.6
Purina Beyond Natural Adult Dry Dog Food - Superfoods Blend Formula & Small Breed Formula
Purina Beyond Natural Adult Dry Dog Food
  • Does not have artificial additives
  • Easy-to-digest
  • Rich source of animal protein
  • Boosts immunity
4.7

What to Look for in Hypoallergenic Diets

When purchasing hypoallergenic dog food for pups with hypersensitive skin, here are factors to consider:

  • Easy of digestion
  • Presence of allergens
  • Presence of artificial additives
  • Immunity support

A good recipe for a sensitive dog should be easy to digest for faster absorption of nutrients. Also, it should not contain any allergens that are unique to your pup. Besides having all organic constituents, an added advantage is choosing a diet that reinforces the immune system.

Our Favorite

Best Overall – Purina Pro Plan Sensitive Skin Dog Food

Purina Pro Plan Sensitive Skin and Sensitive Stomach Dry Dog FoodYou could be wondering, what is the best hypoallergenic dog food? Well, Purina is considered to be among the top hypoallergenic dog food brands known for superior quality pet feeds, a leading manufacturer of endorsed diets for pups with stomach and skin issues. The diet contains essential antioxidants, among other nutritional components that are efficient in strengthening your pup’s immunity. Also, there are no artificial additives included in the hypoallergenic dog food as these might trigger side effects upon consumption by pets.

The primary features include:

  • Contains antioxidants
  • Features prebiotics
  • All organic constituents
  • Contains salmon as the main entrée

For pups with a great taste for fish, this dog food hypoallergenic diet features salmon as the primary constituent, making it a rich source for animal protein. Specifically tailored for pups with stomach issues, this Purina diet contains organic prebiotic fiber, which aids in the digestion process. If your dog has an unhealthy skin or a rough coat, the diet goes a long way in helping to restore the lost luster.

Pros

  • Contains antioxidants essential for the strengthening of immunity against diseases
  • Does not contain artificial additives
  • Contains organic salmon as the primary constituent
  • Easy to digest as it contains organic prebiotic fiber
  • A great alternative for dogs with stomach issues

Cons

  • Price is somewhat high-end

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Hill's Science Diet Dry Dog Food, Adult, Sensitive Stomach & Skin RecipesHill’s Science is a top market player, a brand known for providing great quality animal food, among other essentials. Considering the recipe is custom manufactured for pets with gut problems, this dog food hypoallergenic diet is convenient in such a way that it is easy to digest. Also, the constituents used enhance fast and maximum absorption of nutrients. The nutritional components, not only aid in boosting the pup’s immunity but also help in nourishing the coat.

The notable attributes include:

  • Rich in vitamins and amino acids
  • Contains antioxidants
  • Boosts immunity
  • Easy-to-digest

Fleas and diseases are disastrous in destroying dog coat, and this food contains essential Vitamins and amino acids that enhance the restoration of the luster. Worth noting, this diet is endorsed by vets as a safe diet for pups and a great nutritional source to foster better health.

Pros

  • Conveniently easy-to-digest, therefore dogs benefit maximally from the nutrients constituent
  • It is great for the nourishment of the coat
  • It contains essential nutrients for boosting immunity and restoring skin luster
  • Safe and ideal for pups with stomach issues
  • It is endorsed by vets

Cons

  • Has a slightly high price tag

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Diamond Naturals Skin & Coat Real Meat Recipe Dry Dog Food with Wild Caught SalmonIf you’re on a budget and still want quality safe food for your pup, this Diamond Naturals diet is a great option. They are manufacturers of inexpensive hypoallergenic dog food on the market. The first benefit characteristic of this food is that it contains antioxidants, which are vital in enhancing resistance to diseases. Also, the diet contains prebiotics in approved quantities, and these help in the digestion process.

Main features are:

  • Features prebiotics
  • Contains antioxidants
  • No artificial additives
  • Boosts immunity

The food is not only easy but also fast to digest, and this facilitates optimal nutrients absorption. The nutritional value of this affordable hypoallergenic dog food also helps in restoring skin luster. An important factor to check when buying hypoallergenic dog food is that this diet does not contain artificial additives. All ingredients used are organic and, therefore, suitable for pups with stomach problems.

Pros

  • Suitable for pups with stomach issues
  • Contains antioxidants alongside other vital nutrients for stronger immunity against infections and diseases
  • Features prebiotics in approved quantities
  • Conveniently fast to digest for optimal nutrient absorption
  • Does not contain artificial additives

Cons

  • Limited size package options

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Blue Buffalo Basics Limited Ingredient Diet, Natural Adult Dry Dog FoodBlue Buffalo pet feeds are among the best-selling diets on the market, as the brand is trusted for safe and quality food products for pups. The hypoallergenic diet dog food contains salmon as the primary dish and, therefore, great for dogs with a taste for fish. The diet constituent makes this food a reliable source for animal protein.

Its notable attributes include:

  • Features salmon as the main entrée
  • Rich in vitamins
  • Features antioxidants
  • Restores skin health

With antioxidants included in the recipe, this hypoallergenic food for dogs is great for enhancing immunity against infections and diseases. Also, it promotes restoration and healing of the skin following damage by fleas and diseases. An essential attribute, this diet does not contain artificial additives. The recipe is easy to digest and therefore, an ideal meal for dogs with gut problems.

Pros

  • It contains salmon as the primary dish
  • Essential for boosting immunity as it contains antioxidants and other vital nutrients
  • Promotes healing of the pup skin
  • Does not contain artificial additives
  • It is easy to digest hence ideal for pups with stomach problems

Cons

  • Limited size options available

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Simply Perfection Super Premium Lamb and Brown Rice RecipeAnother trusted dog diet brand is Simply Perfection. Their premium lamb and rice pup meal is a sufficient source of animal protein for pets and a serving of rice for energy. The diet does not have any additional additives as constituents. Considering some pup feeds have oversize chunks while others have too small chunks, this hypoallergenic diet dog food has chunks proportioned at convenient sizes to make it easy for different size dogs when eating.

The notable characteristics include:

  • Features lamb as the main entrée
  • All constituents are organic
  • Features antioxidants
  • Boosts immunity

The recipe features great nutritional makeup as it contains amino acids and vital vitamins, which aid in boosting pup immunity. Also, the chunks are fast and easy to digest. Besides helping in boosting immunity, this hypoallergenic diet dog food also positively impacts the outer appearance of the dog as it helps in restoring coat luster.

Pros

  • It features real lamb as the primary dish
  • It does not contain artificial additives
  • The food chunks are of a convenient size ideal for both small and large pups
  • It contains a variety of vitamins ideal for an immunity boost
  • They’re easy to digest therefore great for pups with digestive problems

Cons

  • It is a little pricy

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Diamond CARE Specialized Diets Dry Dog Food to Support Health Issues with Weight Management, Sensitive Skin, or Sensitive StomachDiamond CARE is among the leading manufacturers of specialized pup food on the market. With salmon as the primary dish in the recipe, this food is a great source for animal protein. As this diet is specifically manufactured for pups with gut issues, it contains probiotics in approved quantities, which facilitates easy and speedy digestion.

Notable attributes include:

  • Restores skin health
  • Contains salmon
  • Rich in amino acids
  • Easy on the stomach

Having food substances stay in the stomach for long awaiting digestion gives the entire gut a huge workload, and therefore quick digestion is convenient for dogs with stomach problems. Also, it contains antioxidants that come in handy in boosting immunity. In addition to not having any artificial additives, this food also helps in boosting pup skin health.

Pros

  • It is a dependable protein source as it features salmon as the primary dish
  • Features a selection of antioxidants which reinforces immunity against diseases
  • It contains ideal levels of probiotics which help in the digestion process
  • It does not have any artificial additives
  • The diet helps in healing of the skin

Cons

  • It is a little pricy

Buy on Amazon

Canine Caviar Limited Ingredient Diet Free Spirit Holistic Entrée All Life Stages Dry Dog FoodAnother brand you won’t regret giving a try is Canine Caviar. The brand is known for high quality feeds that have been approved by relevant authorities. The limited ingredient recipe is gluten-free, hence a safe option for dogs who are prone to allergies. With chicken as the primary serving, the diet appeals to pups with a taste for chicken and is, therefore, a great source of animal protein.

The primary characteristics include:

  • Conveniently sized chunks
  • The diet is gluten-free
  • Contains antioxidants
  • Boosts immunity

Owing to the simplicity of the food yet rich nutritional makeup, this diet is easy and fast to digest. It also goes a long way in both boosting immunity and bettering skin health. If your pup’s fur isn’t as appealing as before, this recipe contains essential nutrients that will help in restoring the luster.

Pros

  • The diet is gluten-free hence ideal for pups with allergies
  • It contains zero artificial additives
  • It contains chicken as the primary constituent
  • The dish is conveniently effortless to digest
  • Efficient in restoring skin luster

Cons

  • It is somewhat costly

Buy on Amazon

Royal Canin Canine Care Nutrition Sensitive Skin Care Dry Dog FoodThe special Royal Canin diet is one of the safest for dogs prone to allergies. The food is easy to digest and therefore enhances the speed at which nutrients are absorbed. The diet helps in restoring an appealing coat and also aids in reinforcing the immune system. If pests had destroyed your pup’s skin, the food is efficient in enhancing luster restoration.

The notable features include:

  • The diet is easy on the stomach
  • It’s rich in vitamins
  • Restores coat luster
  • Reinforces the immune system

A crucial aspect more so when dealing with sensitive dogs, this diet does not have artificial additives. All constituents in the recipe are organic. Noteworthy, this diet is specifically tailored for large dog breeds considering the size of the chunks.

Pros

  • It is easy-to-digest and conveniently fosters maximum intake of nutrients
  • Ideal in fostering skin luster restoration
  • Contains essential vitamins for boosting immunity
  • The diet comprises organic constituents
  • Conveniently manufactured for large pups with skin and stomach issues

Cons

  • It is slightly expensive

Buy on Amazon

AvoDerm Natural Lamb Meal & Brown Rice Formula Dry Dog FoodAvoDem specialized hypoallergenic wet dog food is a healthy diet for a sensitive pup, as it contains constituents that pose a minimum threat in regards to causing allergies. The ingredients include antioxidants, which are vital in reinforcing the immune system.

The primary attributes include:

  • Features antioxidants
  • All ingredients are organic
  • Restores skin health
  • Strengthens the immune system

The recipe does not have artificial additives, lowering the risk of causing allergies. Also, it helps in restoring coast luster after destruction being either pests, infections, or an allergy. The hypoallergenic food is easy on the stomach as it is fast to digest. The nutrients can be absorbed quickly so the dog can utilize them accordingly in the body.

Pros

  • It is a rich source of animal protein for a healthy pup
  • Contains a variety of vitamins and antioxidants for boosting of immunity
  • Does not contain artificial additives
  • Helps in the restoration of coat luster
  • The diet is easy on the stomach for faster digestion

Cons

  • They’re slightly costly

Buy on Amazon

Purina Beyond Natural Adult Dry Dog Food - Superfoods Blend Formula & Small Breed FormulaAnother of Purina’s quality specialized pup diet is this adult pup dry recipe. The diet is a rich source of both plant and animal protein for dogs. With a considerable proportion of antioxidants and vitamins; also, this recipe is efficient in reinforcing the immune system.

Main features are:

  • Does not have artificial additives
  • Easy-to-digest
  • Rich source of animal protein
  • Boosts immunity

Noteworthy, all the constituents are organic, and the food is easy on the stomach. When it comes to bettering the outer appearance of your pup, this food helps in healing broken skin and rejuvenating the coat. It is a great recipe for both small and large dogs.

Pros

  • A great source of animal and plant proteins
  • Does not contain artificial additives
  • Contains a variety of vitamins that aid in boosting immunity
  • The diet is convenient to digest ideal for pups with stomach issues
  • Facilitates restoration of skin luster

Cons

  • They’re slightly costly

Buy on Amazon

Common Dog Allergies

Besides some constituents in dog food, other factors trigger allergies in dogs. Pet prescription drugs may foster allergic reactions in some pets, hence a vital consideration to make. Pet cleaning substances such as shampoos, pests such as fleas, dust, and industrial allergens are other factors that cause common allergies in dogs.

How to Test Food Allergy for Dogs

The most efficient and sure way of knowing whether your pup has a food allergy is taking the clinical approach where a blood test is conducted. However, if you want to avoid the hustle of visiting a vet and what to do it by yourself, you can use a trial diet and exclusively feed it your dog for a short span, approximately a day as this will allow allergic symptoms to show. However, this approach is timely, somewhat unsatisfactory, and may pose a threat to your pup.

Feeding Dogs with Food Allergies – The Process

The recommended way to feed your allergic dog is by giving them hypoallergenic food only. Also, ensure that your pup is not allergic to any of the diet’s constituents. For example, if your pup is allergic to chicken, go for a meal with a hypoallergenic meal with an alternative protein such as salmon.

Recommended Limited Food Ingredients for Allergic Dogs

Recommended food ingredients include vitamins, mineral salts, amino acids, antioxidants, and prebiotics in approved proportions. Plant-based proteins are also ideal as long as the dog is not allergic to food substances.

Reasons Why It’s Difficult to Handle with Dog Food Allergies

Keeping up with dog allergies is not the easiest thing as dogs might have allergies for multiple food substances, and therefore it might be daunting to find the ideal ingredients that the dog is not allergic to. Considering the potential of the severity of dog allergies and that some dogs may be reluctant to eat, this makes it somewhat difficult to handle dogs with food allergies.

Symptoms of a Dog Food Allergy

Symptoms of dog food allergy range from mild to extreme, and these include itchiness and inflammations on the skin, coat infections, swelling of external body parts, vomiting, and diarrhea. Also, a general restlessness could be an indicator of an allergy where the dog shows increased scratching atypical of the norm. Some dogs may undergo hair loss, which results in bald patches on the coat.

Susceptible Dog Breeds to Food Allergies

Pup breeds that are most susceptible to food allergies include German Shepherds, Bichon Frise, Maltese and Golden Retriever. Other breeds that are prone to developing food allergies are Cocker Spaniel, Boxer, Pit Bull Terrier, Rex Cats, and Labrador Retriever. It is vital to take extra caution when feeding these breeds to ensure that they are not allergic to any of the included ingredients.

Most Common Dietary Allergens for Dogs

Food allergens for dogs include meat products such as beef and chicken, dairy products, soy, and wheat. The gluten in some of these food substances triggers a false immune reaction, which is presented as an allergy. Other allergens, though not very common, include fish such as salmon.

Grains and Bugs: The Unfavorable Connection

Some grains, such as soy, trigger allergic reactions for most dog breeds. Similarly, bugs may trigger allergic reactions where the dog becomes restless owing to an itchy sensation on the skin, inflamed parts, and band spots.

Differentiating Between Food Allergies vs. Simple Food Intolerance

Most dog food allergies are consistent with continued symptoms. A dog develops mild or severe symptoms that persist as long as the dog is fed the same food or an alternative with the same ingredients. As for simple food intolerance, the symptoms are often not persistent and are mild in most occasions. After the dog feeds on a given meal, the mild reactions suggesting food intolerance become less pronounced.

Reasons Why Dogs to Develop a Food Allergy

Dogs develop food allergies when their immune system misinterprets food protein substances as a foreign threat rather than a nutritious constituent, and an immune response is triggered. The reaction can be mild in the form of itchy sensation and severe in the form of diarrhea, among other symptoms.

Are Antibiotics Triggers for Allergy?

Yes. Though not on all occasions, antibiotics may cause allergic reactions on dogs, and therefore, proper caution should be taken when administering the drugs.

Instances Where Dogs Develop Allergies

Dogs develop a food allergy when they consume a protein that their immune system falsely perceives as a foreign threat. A counter-reaction is then triggered, and this causes an allergy.

Likelihood that a Dog has a Food Allergy

For most dog breeds, there is a good chance that a dog has a food allergy for at least one food allergen. A dog may be allergic to beef but can consume all other proteins without having any side effects.

What Is Hypoallergenic Dog Food?

A hypoallergenic diet is a dog recipe that does not contain ingredients that pose an allergic threat to a dog. The best dog food for allergies specially manufactured with the right ingredients known to be safe for dogs with food allergies. Once a dog is diagnosed to be allergic to specific food substances, these diets are recommended as a nutritious alternative to ensure the dog’s wellbeing.

Conclusion

Dog food allergies are a major threat to pups, as their severity ranges from mild to severe. Proper diagnosis is essential for determining whether your dog is allergic to specific food substances or not. If some ingredients are not suitable for your dog’s consumption, it is essential to get alternative hypoallergenic food, which will help in not only preventing the allergic reactions but also strengthening the immune system. It is, therefore, essential to check that your choice of food does not contain any substances your dog is allergic to.

In case you suspect a food allergic reaction, conducting a blood test by a vet is the most certain approach to help determine whether your pup is allergic to a given ingredient or not. What is your preferred hypoallergenic food brand? How do you determine whether your pup is allergic to a specific food or not? Share your thoughts in the comments section below; we’ll be glad to check them out!

Images credits: Amazon.com & photo stocks

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Author

Max Gordon

Dr. Gordon has been a contributor to a range of pet media since his study at Drexel University in Philadelphia. He does not miss a chance to do in-depth research backed by his own examinations. Along with writing his own pieces, Dr. Gordon does fact-checking of the articles.

View all posts by Max Gordon | DogsRecommend.com