What Is the Best Dog Food for Allergies?

Just like humans, dogs can develop allergies to certain foods. But, unfortunately, our furry friends can’t always tell us when something isn’t sitting right. That’s why it’s up to us to know how to look for the signs of an allergic reaction or sensitivity and take the steps to find nutritious food alternatives.

Finding dog food for dogs with food allergies can seem overwhelming at first, but it’s easier when you know where to look. Read on to learn more about dog food allergies along with the best dog food for allergies and sensitivities so your pup can enjoy mealtime again.

Are Dog Food Allergies Common?

Dog food allergies are more common than you might think. By some estimates, up to 20% of all dogs will develop allergies over their lifetime. The typical time of onset is between one and two years of age. 

Far more dogs likely have a food sensitivity as well. Though not caused by an immune system response, food sensitivities can still make your pup sick. 

Most Common Allergens for Dogs

You’ve likely heard about the “Big 8” food allergens for people. Similarly, there are some common allergens among dogs. According to VCA Animal Hospitals, the most common food allergies in dogs are proteins, including:

• •Dairy

• •Beef

• •Wheat

• •Egg

• •Chicken

• •Soy

Coincidently, these are often the main ingredients in commercial dry dog food.

How to Tell if Your Dog Has a Food Allergy or Sensitivity

There are often clear signs that your dog may have a food allergy or sensitivity. These include:

• •Itchy skin or paws

• •Recurring ear infections (specifically stinky, yeasty ears with black or brown build-up)

• •Hot spots caused by scratching or red underbelly

• •Scaly or oily skin

• •Inflamed skin around the lips and feet

• •Vomiting and diarrhea 

When you notice these physical signs of a food allergy or sensitivity, the next step is to determine what the specific allergen may be. Your veterinarian can run a saliva test to find out, or you can feed your pup a limited-ingredient diet. 

A food-elimination diet can take upwards of six months to complete. It involves taking your dog’s diet back down to bare essentials and removing common allergens. After a week or two on a limited-ingredient diet, you can slowly reintroduce new foods one at a time to see which protein source causes an adverse reaction.

Best Dog Food for Dogs With Allergies

It’s never too early or too late to find dog food for allergies. No matter if your pup has a specific food allergy or sensitivity, or if you simply want them to feel their best, you can’t go wrong with investing in an allergen-friendly diet.

You’ll find plenty of options for your furry friend. From specific hypoallergenic dog foods to grain-free dog foods, there are plenty of options–but the best dog food for allergies and sensitive stomachs is, hands-down, a raw diet.

Raw Diet for Dog Food Allergies

More research into raw diets for dogs has proven time and time again how beneficial they can be for your pet's wellness. 

One particular study conducted by researchers at the University of Helsinki found, “consumption of at least 20% of the puppy's diet as raw food, or less than 80% of the puppy's diet as dry food, was associated with a significant decreased prevalence of allergy and atopy related skin symptoms in adult dogs.”

For dogs, most allergies or sensitivities begin when they’re puppies. Starting your puppy on a raw diet can be a great way to promote a healthier life and prevent allergies from developing later in life.

That’s because raw diets are high in protein and fat and low in carbohydrates and fillers. They’re naturally anti-inflammatory, support your dog's immune system, and make the perfect food for dogs with allergies. 

On the other hand, pet foods packed with fillers, like grains and other species-inappropriate ingredients, can trigger an allergic response in dogs.

Choose We Feed Raw for Dogs With Allergies

You always know what goes into your raw pet food from We Feed Raw. Our recipes are made with high-quality proteins, sourced from human-grade meats, and free of fillers. The right ratios of muscle meat, organ meat, and bone, as well as the correct levels of vitamins and minerals, are critical to getting a raw diet right.

We also offer a variety of recipes made with protein sources ranging from beef and chicken to turkey, lamb, and more, so there are plenty of options if your pet has a specific allergy or sensitivity. 

Start creating your meal plan with the best dog food for dogs with allergies today.