Humans are not the only ones who are allergic to certain food items. Dogs can be susceptible to allergies, too. While there are a wide range of hypoallergenic dog foods in the market, this article lists out the 10 best ones for you to choose from.
Hypoallergenic dog food is believed to be the best solution for dogs that are allergic to normal food, as this type of specially crafted food is free from allergens that trigger off reactions.
If your dog is suffering from an allergy, then look out for signs and symptoms, like an itchy and inflamed rear end, ear infection, chronic gas and diarrhea, constant paw licking, and skin irritation. Usually, the food products that trigger off an allergy are dairy, soy, grains, egg, and meat like pork, beef, rabbit, and fish. How do you identify which is the best hypoallergenic food for your dog? Trial and error is the best method to do so, but the time taken to actually find out which food is the best for your dog varies. It can take anything between a few days to several weeks in identifying which food suits your dog the best. How does this method work? It’s very simple. All you have to do is stop feeding your dog with normal food and switch him over to something that he has never had before. Once he gets used to the new food, switch him back to the food that you would feed him earlier. If he has a reaction to the old food, then he is allergic to it.
Some breeds, like German shepherds, cocker spaniels, retrievers, and Dachshunds are most prone to having allergies. Dog food companies make hypoallergenic food specially for dogs who have food allergies, so that your pet can lead a long and comfortable life. Given below in this DogAppy write-up is a list of specially formulated dog food that does not trigger off any allergy.
* This list is in no particular order.
Top 10 Hypoallergenic Dog Foods
Acana Duck & Bartlett Pear
As the name suggests, Acana’s range of Duck and Bartlett Pear dog food works very well for dogs with food allergies. This food is made with duck meat, including cartilage, liver, and fat. It contains steel-cut oatmeal, as this is better than hypoglycemic grains, such as corn and rice. This meal also contains red apples, spinach greens, butternut squash, etc., thus providing your pet with all the essential nutrition with every meal. It is 100% organic and free from artificial flavors, colors, and preservatives. Acana Duck and Bartlett Pear is produced by Champion Petfoods, and it can be purchased either from pet stores or online.
AvoDerm Natural Chicken Meal and Brown Rice Formula
Containing avocado fruit, chicken, and brown rice, this dog food is rich in vitamins and minerals, like vitamin E, vitamin D, vitamin B12, riboflavin, folic acid, etc. It does not contain corn or wheat, and therefore, it is gluten-free. It works wonders for your dog’s allergy and keeps its coat soft, shiny, and healthy. It is manufactured by Breeder’s Choice Pet Food, and it can be purchased online or at retail outlets.
Orijen Grain-Free Adult Dry Dog Food
This variety of dog kibble is made from chicken meal, boneless chicken, russet potato, turkey meal, lake whitefish, salmon and anchovy oil, carrots, spinach, rosemary, etc. It is very nutritious, and dogs love it. Orijen won the Pet Food of the Year award for 2012, awarded by the Glycemic Research Institute. This food is high in proteins and is very good for building muscle, maintaining a smooth coat, skin, and heart of your dog.
Pinnacle Grain Free Salmon and Potato Dog Food
The key ingredient of this dog food is salmon from the Northwest Pacific. It also contains pumpkin, peas, tomato pomace, flax seed, organic quinoa seed, blueberries, kelp meal, potato, etc. Its ingredients make it rich in proteins, vitamin E, vitamin D, vitamin B12, vitamin D3, folic acid, antioxidants, and the like. This brand of food is best for large working breeds, as it aids in muscle development and buildup.
Flint River Ranch Trout and Sweet Potato Formula
All dog food items made under this brand are absolutely organic and fresh. It contains proper amino acids, and therefore, it is considered very healthy. It is oven-baked and is available in a variety of meat, like lamb, duck, beef, fish, and oatmeal. It is free of known allergens, like wheat, corn, and preservatives. It is only available online. You could also try the Lamb, Rice, and Millet Formula. I am sure your pooch will love it.
Evanger’s Grain Free Duck
Evanger’s grain free duck is a high seller amongst many pet parents. The reason why it is so popular is because it can be mixed with Evanger’s canned Vegetable Dinner, providing your dog a balanced and complete meal. It is rich in proteins, minerals, and is 100% gluten-free. Many veterinarians also suggest switching your dog to Evanger’s Grain Free Duck, as it is specially formulated for dogs with food-related allergies.
Nature’s Variety Instinct Grain-Free Kibble for Dogs: Duck Meal & Turkey Meal Formula
Nature’s Variety is a small independent organization that works towards bringing quality food for pets. Their Instinct Grain-Free Kibble range has many amazing varieties of food to offer. The duck and turkey meal formula helps in maintaining your dog’s weight and is perfect for dogs of all breeds and sizes. Since it is gluten-free and grain-free, it is very good for dogs that are prone to food allergies. This specially formulated food is rich in carotene, vitamins, minerals, and fatty acids.
Go! SENSITIVITY + SHINE Salmon
The Go! SENSITIVITY + SHINE Salmon is perfect for dogs with food allergies. This variety of hypoallergenic dog food contains no beef, poultry, soy, or corn. It is 100% natural and contains probiotics and prebiotics which help in your dog’s digestive system. As salmon is the main ingredient, this product is rich in omega-3 fatty acids and protein. If your dog has a sensitive stomach due to which he is prone to allergies, then Go! SENSITIVITY + SHINE Salmon is the perfect food for him.
HealthPro Nutrition Vita Gravy Immunity and Digestion
HealthPro Nutrition’s range of Vita Gravy dog food is specially designed to target the problem areas in your dog. They have products for hip and joints, skin and coat, and for immunity and digestion. The product yields good results for dogs that have a sensitive digestive system. This product helps boost immunity as it is rich in antioxidants, Brewer’s yeast, and high in fibers, which also helps in settling the stomach and ensures smooth and good bowel movements.
Nutro Ultra Holistic
Nutro Ultra Holistic is a brand that has a varied range of products depending on the size, breed, age, and weight of your dog. Their products are 100% natural and preservative-free. The ingredients used in their products are sunflower oil, cranberries, pomegranates, pumpkins, tomatoes, lean meat, like salmon and lamb, whole gluten-free grains, like brown rice, oatmeal, and flax seed. Due to their perfect blend of ingredients, the range of food is rich in antioxidants, amino acids, proteins, vitamins, and minerals.
Some pet owners may prefer feeding their dogs with homemade meals, but they should take into account the benefits of ready-made meals, like the ones mentioned above. The ones on this list are the best in the market and are specially made for dogs with food allergies. They are a complete and balanced meal and help to promote the overall health of your pet. If you plan to try out any of the above-mentioned brands, kindly consult your veterinarian before doing so.
Disclaimer: This article is purely for informative and educational purposes. Please seek the advice of a registered veterinarian before feeding your dog with any pet food mentioned here.
