AP Buyline’s content is created independently of The Associated Press newsroom. Our evaluations and opinions are not influenced by our advertising relationships, but we might earn commissions from our partners’ links in this content. Learn more about our policies and terms here.
Growing up, we always had a dog around. Now that I have a family of my own, I knew my household wouldn’t be complete without a furry family friend. Last July, we adopted a small, nine-pound chihuahua mix named Rosie. Soon after bringing her home, we found out that she had a pretty significant gluten allergy that was wreaking havoc on her skin and stomach. The answer lay in feeding her the correct diet: Together with her vet, we found the right dog food, and she’s improved significantly. If you have a pet suffering from allergies, you know how much special diets will help.
In this article, we’ll cover the 10 best dog foods for allergies, covering a variety of types to help with every kind of need.
Common food allergies in dogs
According to Andrea Johnston, a board-certified small animal veterinary internist and medical board member at The Vets, the most common types of food allergies in dogs include wheat (gluten) and protein (dairy, beef, chicken, eggs and soy). Additives can also cause allergic reactions and sensitivities.
Symptoms of food allergies in dogs
Dr. Nell Ostermeier, a licensed veterinarian and advisor for Figo Pet Insurance, says there are several telltale signs. “Signs of a sensitive stomach can vary among individual dogs and may include hypersalivation, nausea, vomiting, soft stools, flatulence and diarrhea. If your dog typically exhibits any of these signs when you try to offer a new food or treat, it likely has a sensitive gastrointestinal tract,” she says.
Types of dog food for allergies
- Limited ingredient formulas: Foods with fewer ingredients can be better for dogs with allergies, especially if you have pinpointed the cause.
- Hydrolyzed protein formulas: These proteins have been broken down into their simplest form, making them easier to digest.
- Supplements: Some dog foods contain pro or prebiotics, as well as digestive enzymes that can support digestion and absorption.
- Novel proteins: If your dog is sensitive to typical proteins (beef or chicken), try alternatives like venison, duck or rabbit.
What to consider when buying dog food for allergies
Ingredients
Ensure that the food’s ingredient list meets your dog’s dietary needs and does not include any of their triggering allergens.
Price
Buying specialized dog food can be pricey. Consider buying in bulk, inquiring about a store’s loyalty programs or searching for sales and coupons.
Recommendations
Always consult your vet before starting your dog on a new diet. Your pet’s doctor may recommend specific brands or ingredients.
Our top picks for the best dog foods for allergies
Best dog food for skin allergies: Hill's Prescription Diet Derm Complete
Hill's Prescription Diet Derm Complete Dry Dog Food, 6.5-lb bag
Dogs with skin issues due to food allergies will benefit from Hill's Prescription Diet Derm Complete. It contains a single animal protein source (chicken) as well as bioactives and phytonutrients that can help normalize immune responses. That means less itching and scratching, which otherwise can wreak havoc on your furniture and dog beds, especially if your pet has a chewing allergic reaction.
Specifications:
- Best for: Skin allergies.
- Life stage: Adult.
- Flavors: Chicken and rice.
- Profile: Single protein.
- Type: Dry.
- Price on publish: $46.99.
What we like:
- Visible skin improvement.
- Reduction in nighttime itching.
- Helps support skin barrier.
What we don’t like:
- Expensive.
- Needs vet authorization.
The AP Buyline takeaway:
Hill's is a trusted name, and this Derm Complete Dog food is one of the best-reviewed options for dogs with skin allergies.
Get it here: Hill's Prescription Diet Derm Complete
Best wet dog food for allergies: Blue Buffalo Skin and Stomach Care
Blue Buffalo Basics Skin & Stomach Care Grain-Free Whitefish Entrée Adult Canned Dog Food, 12.5-oz can, case of 12
Blue Buffalo Skin and Stomach Care is a novel protein-based food alternative that includes meats like lamb, duck, turkey or whitefish. Enhanced with vitamins and minerals, this grain-free, limited-ingredient food helps with various allergies. The wet format makes it extra enticing for picky eaters.
Specifications:
- Best for: Stomach and skin sensitivities.
- Life stage: Adult.
- Flavors: Whitefish, duck, lamb, turkey with potato.
- Profile: Grain-free.
- Type: Wet.
- Price on publish: $53.88.
What we like:
- Limited ingredients.
- Novel proteins.
- Wet food is great for picky eaters.
What we don’t like:
- Cans come in just one size.
The AP Buyline takeaway:
If you’re looking for wet food that targets skin and stomach allergies, try this novel, limited-ingredient protein option.
Get it here: Blue Buffalo Skin and Stomach Care
Best dry dog food for skin allergies: Purina Pro Plan Dermatological Management
Purina Pro Plan Veterinary Diets DRM Dermatologic Management Naturals Dry Dog Food, 6-lb bag
This sensitive skin formula food protects your dog’s skin and coat with omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids, while antioxidants and vitamin E help support immune health. The dry kibble formula includes trout and oatmeal and is free from refined grains and additives.
Specifications:
- Best for: Skin allergies.
- Life stage: Adult.
- Flavors: Trout and oat.
- Profile: Single protein.
- Type: Dry.
- Price on publish: $44.99.
What we like:
- Antioxidant- and vitamin-rich.
- Highly rated and reviewed.
What we don’t like:
- Requires approval from a veterinarian.
- Comes in just one flavor.
- Reviewers say food goes bad quickly if not stored properly.
The AP Buyline takeaway:
This specialty dry food protects a dog’s skin and coat in three ways: with omega fatty acids, vitamin E and antioxidants.
Get it here: Purina Pro Plan Dermatological Management
Best grain-free dog food for skin allergies: Diamond Naturals Grain-Free Chicken and Sweet Potato
Naturals Grain-Free Chicken & Sweet Potato Formula Dry Dog Food, 14 lbs.
Grain is a major allergen for sensitive dogs, and Diamond Naturals Chicken and Sweet Potato is a completely grain-free, easy-to-digest formula. According to vets, this combination works well because it best mimics a dog’s ancestral diet. This food also contains a proprietary strain of pro and prebiotics to further help digestion and absorption.
Specifications:
- Best for: Grain and skin allergies.
- Life stage: All.
- Flavors: Chicken and sweet potato.
- Profile: Grain-free.
- Type: Dry.
- Price on publish: $34.99.
What we like:
- Real chicken is the first ingredient.
- Sweet potatoes add complex carbs.
- Pro and prebiotics support healthy digestion.
What we don’t like:
- Larger, 24-pound bags can be hard to find.
The AP Buyline takeaway:
Diamond Natural dog food, featuring sweet potato and chicken, is a grain-free, single-protein option that’s a great choice for dogs with skin allergies and digestive issues.
Get it here: Diamond Naturals Grain-Free Chicken and Sweet Potato
Best dog food for dogs with allergies: Royal Canin Hydrolyzed Protein Dry Dog Food
Royal Canin Veterinary Diet Hydrolyzed Protein HP Dry Dog Food, 7.7-lb bag
Foods with hydrolyzed protein, like this dry format from Royal Canin, can benefit dogs with allergies. Through hydrolysis, proteins are broken down into their purest form, making them easier to digest. For some dogs, this is enough to curb the effects of protein allergies, keeping the body from triggering an immune reaction (scratching and itching).
Specifications:
- Best for: Protein allergies.
- Life stage: Adult.
- Flavors: Rice and vegetable.
- Profile: Hydrolyzed protein.
- Type: Dry.
- Price on publish: $56.99.
What we like:
- Easy to digest and absorb.
- Palatable flavor.
- Supports oral health.
What we don’t like:
- Not grain-free.
- Need veterinarian approval.
The AP Buyline takeaway:
For this brand of Royal Canin’s dry dog food, hydrolyzation breaks down protein into a more digestible format for dogs with protein allergies.
Get it here: Royal Canin Hydrolyzed Protein Dry Dog Food
Best dog food for allergies and yeast infections: The Honest Kitchen Whole Grain Chicken Clusters
The Honest Kitchen Whole Grain Chicken Clusters
Some allergies can cause yeast infections of the skin. The Honest Kitchen Whole Grain Chicken Clusters provide human-grade ingredients with minimal processing suitable for even the most sensitive dogs. Salmon oil is added to promote skin and coat health.
Specifications:
- Best for: Yeast infection-prone skin.
- Life stage: Puppy to adult.
- Flavors: Chicken.
- Profile: Single protein.
- Type: Dry.
- Price on publish: $24.99.
What we like:
- Made with human-grade ingredients.
- Additive-free.
- Non-GMO, no fillers.
What we don’t like:
- Pricey.
The AP Buyline takeaway:
The Honest Kitchen Whole Grain Chicken Clusters are made from human-grade ingredients specially formulated for yeast-infection-prone small dogs.
Get it here: The Honest Kitchen Whole Grain Chicken Clusters
Best salmon dog food for allergies: Natural Balance Limited Ingredient Salmon and Brown Rice
Natural Balance L.I.D. Limited Ingredient Diets Salmon & Brown Rice Formula Dry Dog Food, 4-lb bag
Salmon is an excellent source of omega-3 fatty acids and vitamins B and D. It also has naturally occurring anti-inflammatory properties that can help skin and digestive sensitivities. Natural Balance Limited Ingredient Salmon and Brown Rice is a palatable combination of hearty fish and whole grains, supporting healthy muscle growth and providing a steady energy source.
Specifications:
- Best for: Digestive issues and skin allergies.
- Life stage: Adult.
- Flavors: Salmon, duck, chicken, beef and lamb with brown rice.
- Profile: Single protein.
- Type: Dry.
- Price on publish: $24.99.
What we like:
- Great price.
- Limited ingredients.
- Four available sizes.
What we don’t like:
- Contains grain.
The AP Buyline takeaway:
This dry dog food from Natural Balance features limited ingredients, like omega-3 fatty acid-rich salmon, to promote healthy skin and easy digestion.
Get it here: Natural Balance Limited Ingredient Salmon and Brown Rice
Best dog food for environmental allergies: Just Food for Dogs Fish and Sweet Potato
JustFoodForDogs Fish & Sweet Potato Recipe Frozen Human-Grade Fresh Dog Food, 18-oz pouch, case of 7
Environmental allergies are common in dogs and can cause everything from itchy skin to digestive issues. This Just Food for Dogs Fish and Sweet Potato features limited ingredients and novel protein, making it suitable for a variety of allergies, including environmental ones. Plus, it’s made from human-grade food that looks as good as anything you’d cook for your pet yourself.
Specifications:
- Best for: Environmental allergies.
- Life stage: Adult.
- Flavors: There are varied options, but only fish, lamb, turkey and venison are appropriate for dogs with allergies.
- Profile: Limited ingredient.
- Type: Fresh.
- Price on publish: $76.99.
What we like:
- Variety of flavors.
- Human-grade food.
- Wet food helps with hydration.
What we don’t like:
- Must be refrigerated.
- Pricey.
The AP Buyline takeaway:
Keep environmental allergy symptoms at bay with Just Food for Dogs Fish and Sweet Potato human-grade wet dog food, which also helps with your pet’s overall hydration.
Get it here: Just Food for Dogs Fish and Sweet Potato
Best dog food for small dogs with allergies: Hill’s Science Small and Mini Sensitive Skin and Stomach Chicken Recipe
Hill's Science Diet Adult Sensitive Stomach & Sensitive Skin Small & Mini Breed Chicken Recipe Dry Dog Food, 4-lb bag
Small breeds need specialized food to fuel their tiny but mighty bodies. And if they have allergies, they also need something easy on their digestive system. Hill’s Science Small and Mini Sensitive Skin and Stomach Chicken recipe contains highly digestible ingredients, including prebiotic protein to nourish your dog’s gut microbiome. Added vitamins, minerals and amino acids round out the ingredient list to help promote healthy skin and coat function.
Specifications:
- Best for: Small breed with allergies.
- Life stage: Adult.
- Flavors: Chicken and rice.
- Profile: Limited ingredient.
- Type: Dry.
- Price on publish: $24.49.
What we like:
- Reasonable price.
- Limited ingredients.
- Special formulation for small dogs.
What we don’t like:
- Reviewers say that pickier dogs may not like the taste.
The AP Buyline takeaway:
This popular chicken and rice flavored Hill’s Science brand dry dog food is specially formulated for toy and mini breeds with stomach and skin sensitivities.
Get it here: Hill’s Science Small and Mini Sensitive Skin and Stomach Chicken Recipe
Best dog food for sensitive stomachs and allergies: Blue Buffalo True Solutions Blissful Belly Digestive Care
Blue Buffalo True Solutions Blissful Belly Adult Chicken Dry Dog Food, 11-lb bag
The name says it all: Blue Buffalo True Solutions Blissful Belly is all about digestive care. This specially formulated chicken and rice blend is explicitly made for sensitive stomachs, providing antioxidant, fiber-rich ingredients to prompt healthy digestion. Real chicken is the first ingredient, along with plenty of fruits and vegetables, for a complete and balanced meal. We’ve got more suggestions for dog food for sensitive stomachs here.
Specifications:
- Best for: Sensitive stomachs.
- Life stage: Adult.
- Flavors: Chicken and rice.
- Profile: Limited ingredient.
- Type: Dry.
- Price on publish: $43.99.
What we like:
- Additive-free.
- Pre and probiotics.
- Fiber-rich.
What we don’t like:
- Limited flavor options.
The AP Buyline takeaway:
Blue Buffalo True Solutions Blissful Belly is a fiber-rich, limited-ingredient formula that is easy on sensitive stomachs.
Get it here: Blue Buffalo True Solutions Blissful Belly Digestive Care
How we chose the best dog foods for allergies
To choose the dog foods listed in this article, we interviewed a wide variety of pet specialists and veterinarians. We looked at highly rated brands and formulas in each category and read through customer reviews. As an owner of a dog with skin and digestive issues, I have firsthand knowledge about researching appropriate foods.
How to transition your dog to a new allergy-friendly diet
Always consult your vet when starting your dog on a new food or diet. Aside from this, many dog food companies, like the ones listed in this article, advise introducing new food over the course of 14 days, replacing 25% of your dog's usual food with the new food for 1-4 days, then 50% for 5 to 8 days, 75% for 9 to 11 days and finally 100% at 10-14 days.
Frequently asked questions (FAQs)
How do I know if my dog has food allergies?
According to the American Kennel Club, vomiting and diarrhea are the top digestive issues associated with food allergies. Skin allergies manifest as hives and itching of paws, skin or ears. If you suspect your pet has an allergy, document its symptoms over time and bring your concerns to your vet.
What are some common allergens in dog food?
According to Johnston, there are several things to avoid that can cause problems in allergy-prone dogs.
- High-fat foods: While dogs need fat for energy, excessive fat intake can lead to digestive issues, particularly in dogs with pancreatitis. Avoid dog foods with high fat levels, such as those containing animal fats or certain oils.
- Dairy products: Many dogs are lactose intolerant, meaning they lack the enzyme necessary to digest lactose, a sugar found in milk. Avoid dog foods that contain dairy products such as milk, cheese or yogurt, as they can cause digestive issues.
- Artificial sweeteners: Artificial sweeteners like xylitol are toxic to dogs and can cause digestive problems. Ensure your dog's food contains no artificial sweeteners or sugar substitutes.
Can allergies develop over time?
Dogs can develop allergies over time, according to Johnston. “Factors such as repeated exposure to certain ingredients, changes in diet, age, underlying health conditions and environmental factors can contribute to the development of food sensitivities in dogs,” she says. “Monitoring your dog's health, consulting with your veterinarian and making gradual dietary changes can help manage these sensitivities effectively.”
What foods should you avoid for dogs with itchy skin?
According to the American Kennel Club, common proteins (chicken and beef), dairy and grains are the top three biggest allergens for dogs. Look for foods with alternative, more easily digestible meats like turkey, venison or lamb. Foods with limited ingredients also help ease allergic reactions. Avoid dairy and look for single-grain options.
Is chicken or beef better for dogs with allergies?
Chicken and beef are the top two most common proteins found in most dog foods. Because of this, they are often the proteins that cause the most allergies in sensitive dogs. Each dog is different, so you would need to rule out which one of the two causes the biggest allergic reaction.
AP Buyline’s content is created independently of The Associated Press newsroom. Our evaluations and opinions are not influenced by our advertising relationships, but we might earn commissions from our partners’ links in this content. Learn more about our policies and terms here.