Best Dog Foods for Allergies
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What are the best foods for dogs with allergies?
From itchy skin, watery eyes and a runny nose, dogs can develop allergies, just like us, and the symptoms can be unpleasant. If left untreated, they can lead to nasty skin infections and, in some cases, respiratory distress. While the majority of allergens tend to be environmental, some dogs can also have adverse reactions to food, leading pet parents to be on the hunt for the best dog food for allergies.
The first step is uncovering the specific allergen with your vet, who will create an appropriate diet plan. Typically, limited ingredient and hypoallergenic dog foods are recommended.
Limited ingredient diets contain fewer components, making it easier to pinpoint the specific allergen. Hypoallergenic dog food, on the other hand, is made with protein that has been “split” into its basic nutrient building blocks. This “hydrolyzed” protein is usually too small to stimulate an immune response.
Another option is novel ingredient dog food which replaces traditional proteins like beef and chicken with less common proteins such as venison, salmon, or duck. If your dog is sensitive to corn, wheat, or other grains, a grain-free dog food may be recommended. These foods also have the added benefit of being gluten-free.
Switching dog food can sometimes lead to digestive concerns, so it’s important to add a new food gradually.
You’ll also see, at the bottom of this page, answers to some of the most frequently asked questions we get about choosing and feeding limited ingredient and hypoallergenic diets.
Best Dog Foods for Allergies March 2026
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Best Dog Food for Allergies
The Farmer's Dog Pork Recipe
Made from human-grade meat and vegetables, The Farmer’s Dog Pork Recipe is just one of four vet-developed formulas, cooked to destroy pathogens and then quickly frozen to lock-in nutrients. These grain-free recipes are made with limited ingredients and often novel proteins, to allow easy avoidance of triggers for allergies.
This particular recipe gets 100% protein from fresh pork. Dry matter label analysis reveals the recipe contains 36.2% protein, 27.6% fat and 26.6% estimated carbs, which produces a fat-to-protein ratio of about 76%.
To order, you enter your dog’s details and you’ll get a customized meal plan. The meals are then delivered, frozen, to your home. You defrost each package when needed.
Read our review of the full The Farmer’s Dog range here
Why we chose this
Our expert nutritionist, Laura Ward, says: “The Farmer’s Dog Pork is a fresh diet, utilising a simple recipe of recognisable ingredients, enabling pet parents to avoid ingredients which their dog may be sensitive to. A high quality food, without many ingredients often linked with sensitivities.”
Things we like
- Human-grade ingredients
- Vet developed
- Rich in omega-3 fish oil
Things to consider
- Not a budget option
- You will need freezer space
- Not easy to get a rough idea of cost
Main Ingredients Pork, sweet potato, potato, green beans, cauliflower Texture Fresh (Wet) Type Grain-free Protein Percentage 36.2% AAFCO Standards All Life Stages Best For All dogs including large breed puppies Sample buyer review...
Read more buyer reviews at thefarmersdog.com"This healthier diet may cost a little more than the dried or canned foods but has saved me hundreds of dollars on vet bills."
What do pet parents think?
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Best Food For Puppies With Allergies
Maxbone Mb Eats Glow Up Turkey Meal
Maxbone Glow Up Turkey Meal is one of two recipes included in our review of the Maxbone Freeze-Dried Raw product.
An excellent limited ingredient recipe. . . with novel carbohydrates such as sweet potato and high-quality lean protein to support dogs with sensitivities or allergies.
This particular recipe derives the bulk of its protein from turkey and dry matter label analysis reveals it contains 49.5% protein, 31.5% fat and 8% estimated carbohydrates, with a fat-to-protein ratio of 64%.
Read our review of the full Maxbone Freeze-dried Raw Dog Food range here
Things we like
- Designed by board-certified vet nutritionists
- Single protein source
- Antioxidant superfoods to help manage allergies
Main Ingredients Turkey, turkey liver, spinach, sweet potato, chia seeds Texture Freeze-Dried Type Grain-free Protein Percentage 49.5% AAFCO Standards All life stages Best For Adults & puppies (including large breeds) Sample buyer review...
Read more buyer reviews at maxbone.com"Miss P, aka Prudence, absolutely loves this food. She can be a picky eater, but loved this food from the start! It seems easy on her stomach which can be sensitive. Can’t be more happy with this food."
What do pet parents think?
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Best Gut Health Food for Dogs with Allergies
Brothers Complete Ultra Premium Lamb Meal & Egg Formula
Brother’s is a premium food made with quality proteins, prebiotics, and probiotics to promote gut health and aid digestion, and has received the Dog Food Advisor’s highest rating: 5 stars.
It is one of four recipes in our review of the product range.
This recipe derives the bulk of its protein from lamb meal and egg. Dry matter label analysis reveals it contains 34.2% protein, 17.4% fat and 35% carbohydrates . . . resulting in a fat-to-protein ratio of about 51%.
Things we like
- Digestive support from prebiotics, probiotics, and enzymes
- High-quality, animal-based protein
- Nutrient-dense ingredients
Main Ingredients Lamb meal, dried whole eggs, turkey meal, cassava/tapioca, pea flour Texture Dry Type Grain-free Protein Percentage 34.2% AAFCO Standards All Life Stages Best For All dogs Sample buyer review...
Read more buyer reviews at brothersdogfood.com"My dogs love their lamb and egg. Never leave a drop behind. Nice knowing there are better products out there for our fur babies."
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Best Budget-Friendly Dog Food for Allergies
Wellness Simple Limited Ingredient Diet Turkey & Potato Formula
This turkey and potato formula is an excellent 5-star limited-ingredient option for adult dogs with food and skin sensitivities — and it won’t break the bank, especially if you use Autoship options.
Made by Wellness in the U.S.A., a brand which generally rates well, it is one of six dry recipes in the Simple Limited Ingredient Diet range. This particular recipe derives the majority of its animal protein from fresh turkey and turkey meal. Our dry matter label analysis reveals the recipe contains 32.8% protein, 15.9% fat and 41.8% estimated carbs… yielding a fat-to-protein ratio of about 48%.
The easiest way to buy it is by clicking on the Chewy link on this page.
Read our review of the full Wellness Simple Limited Ingredient Dog Food (Dry) range here
Why we chose this
Our expert nutritionist, Laura ward, says: “Wellness Simple Limited Ingredient Diet is suitable for identifying ingredients which your dog which may be sensitive to. It also contains ingredients to support immune health such as probiotics and omega oils to aid skin and coat health.”
Things we like
- Easily digestible carbohydrates
- Fortified with omega fatty acids
- Gluten-free
Things to consider
- Carbohydrate levels are still quite high
- Can't buy direct from Wellness
Main Ingredients Deboned turkey, turkey meal, potatoes, peas, dried ground potatoes Texture Dry Type Grain-free Protein Percentage 32.8% AAFCO Standards Maintenance Best For Adults only (not for puppies) Sample buyer review...
Read more buyer reviews at chewy.com"Our two Labs are having problems with yeast in ears, biting paws and itching. They needed some relief so I decided to try Wellness Simple Turkey & Potatoes. After three weeks there has been a noticeable improvement."
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Best Dog Food for Skin Allergies
Just Food for Dogs Pantry Fresh Joint & Skin Support
Just Food for Dogs Joint & Skin Support is a limited ingredient diet containing novel proteins, omega oils and antioxidants for skin health, making it the best dog food for skin allergies. It is one of nine recipes in this range.
This particular fresh recipe gets the bulk of its protein from pork, which is naturally rich in all 10 essential amino acids required by a dog to sustain life. Dry matter label analysis reveals it contains 33.3% protein, 8.3% fat and 46.7% estimated carbs. . . with a fat-to-protein ratio of about 25%.
Read our review of the full Just Food For Dogs Pantry Fresh Dog Food (Fresh) range here
Things we like
- Fortified with type II collagen
- Free from preservatives
- Can be stored unopened for up to 2 years
Main Ingredients Pork, quinoa, kale, carrots, apples Texture Fresh (Wet) Type Grain-free Protein Percentage 33.3% AAFCO Standards Maintenance Best For Adult dogs Sample buyer review...
Read more buyer reviews at justfoodfordogs.com"My dogs absolutely love it!! It is so fresh and healthy for them!! They go crazy for it and absolutely no issues switching to this new food!!"
What do pet parents think?
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Best Dry Dog Food For Allergies
Natural Balance Limited Ingredient Salmon & Brown Rice
This Salmon & Brown Rice formula is one of 19 Limited Ingredient Diet recipes in a dry dog food range made by Natural Balance. With no soy, gluten, artificial colors, or artificial flavors, it is ideal for dogs with a sensitive stomach, skin irritations and allergies.
This particular formula derives most of its animal protein from fresh salmon and salmon meal. Our dry matter label analysis reveals the recipe contains 27.7% protein, 14.1% fat and 45.3% estimated carbs… which produces a fat-to-protein ratio of about 51%.
Read our review of the full Natural Balance Limited Ingredient Dog Food (Dry) range here
Things we like
- Fish protein
- Whole grain brown rice
- Free of soy and gluten
Main Ingredients Salmon, salmon meal (source of glucosamine), brown rice, oatmeal, brewers rice Texture Dry Type Grain-inclusive (brown rice, brewers rice) Protein Percentage 27.7% AAFCO Standards Maintenance Best For Adults only, not for puppies Sample buyer review...
Read more buyer reviews at chewy.com"I have been looking for a new kibble for my pup who suffers from food & environmental allergies! The vet suggested we eliminate chicken and after much research, we decided to try this! Our dog loved it and it was easy on her tummy! Along with her meds and supplements, the New Balance Salmon & Brown Rice has been an amazing success!!"
What do pet parents think?
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Best Dog Food for Sensitive Skin
Zignature Turkey Formula
Turkey Formula is one of 12 limited-ingredient recipes made by Zignature. It is free from common allergens such as corn, wheat, soy, and dairy and includes antioxidant-rich fruits and vegetables, along with added essential vitamins and minerals.
This wet recipe gets the bulk of its animal protein from farm-raised turkey, a lean source of protein to help keep your dog’s muscles strong. Dry matter label analysis reveals this food contains 42.3% protein, 32.7% fat and 14.6% estimated carbs. . . with a fat-to-protein ratio of about 77%.
Read our review of the full Zignature Dog Food (Canned) range here
Things we like
- Meat #1 ingredient
- Includes low glycemic carbohydrates
- High moisture content
Main Ingredients Turkey, turkey broth, turkey liver, peas, chickpeas Texture Wet Type Grain-free Protein Percentage 42.3% AAFCO Standards All life stages Best For Puppies & adult dogs Sample buyer review...
Read more buyer reviews at chewy.com"As a pet care professional for over 12 years I always strive to give my dogs the best. Zignature has been a staple for our three dogs for three years and counting! We will continue to recommend this food to our clients and friends. "
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Best Limited Ingredient Dog Food For Allergies
Merrick Limited Ingredient Diet with Healthy Grains Real Turkey and Brown Rice Recipe
This limited-ingredient dog food by Merrick offers a balanced, wet alternative to dry kibble. A practical option for those seeking to pin down a possible offending ingredient. It is one of three recipes in this range.
This particular formula derives the bulk of its protein from fresh deboned turkey. Our dry matter label analysis reveals the recipe contains 36.5% protein, 26.9% fat and 25.4% estimated carbs… which results in a fat-to-protein ratio of about 74%.
Read our review of the full Merrick Limited Ingredient Diet Dog Food (Canned) range here
Things we like
- Single source of protein
- Also beneficial for dogs with a sensitive stomach
- Includes fiber-rich grains such as oatmeal
Main Ingredients Deboned turkey, turkey broth, turkey liver, brown rice, oatmeal Texture Wet Type Grain-inclusive (brown rice, oatmeal) Protein Percentage 36.5% AAFCO Standards Maintenance Best For Adults only (not for puppies) Sample buyer review...
Read more buyer reviews at chewy.com"I love the idea of limited ingredients. It feels healthier. My pups love it mixed with the Merrick Limited Dry Dog Food."
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Best Dog Food For Small Breeds With Allergies
Nutro Limited Ingredient Diet Adult Small Bites Sensitive Support with Real Lamb & Sweet Potato
Limited-ingredient dog food specially crafted for dogs’ sensitivities, without ingredients that commonly cause sensitivities, such as chicken, beef, wheat, or dairy protein.
It is one of five limited-ingredient formulas in the Nutro Pet Food range. This recipe gets the bulk of its animal protein from lamb. Our dry matter label analysis reveals it contains 23.4% protein, 16.3% fat and 48.6% estimated carbs . . . creating a fat-to-protein ratio of about 70%.
Read our review of the full Nutro Limited Ingredient Diet Dog Food (Dry) range here
Things we like
- Single novel protein source
- Transparent ingredient usage
- Limited ingredient diet
Main Ingredients Deboned lamb, lamb meal, chickpeas, dried potatoes, dried sweet potatoes Texture Dry Type Grain-free Protein Percentage 23.4% AAFCO Standards Maintenance Best For Small breed adult dogs only Sample buyer review...
Read more buyer reviews at chewy.com"I finally found a food that both of my terriers will eat and they are not having any allergies to so far. My border terrier mix is the one with allergies and my morkie doesnt like larger kibble. This is a win win for all of us. They love the small kibble and love the lamb instead of turkey. Im very happy with this product!"
How we review dog foods
We read the label.
This may sound simple, but there are thousands of dog foods on the market, and the label is the only source of reliable, standardized and government-regulated data available on every one of them. This includes the AAFCO nutrient profile, the Guaranteed Analysis and the ingredients.
We use our algorithm.
We take the data and enter it into our unique algorithm to produce a different set of figures, including the Dry Matter Analysis (the nutrient levels after water has been removed). This algorithm gives us a base score range on our five-star rating system.
We refine the score.
We take into account other factors, such as the quality of ingredients and the nature of the first few ingredients on the list (and therefore the most prevalent in the food), and narrow the score. The key ingredients are explained in-depth in the review.
Our expert nutritionist takes over.
At this point, our expert pet nutritionist, Laura Ward, goes through the review to check and approve it. She has the authority to make small discretionary changes to the star-rating based on her judgment of a food. We now have our final star-rating.
What other information do we include for dog parents?
Each dog food review includes sample consumer reviews and links to other reviews. It also includes the brand’s recall history. Our Best Dog Food pages also include consumer reviews.
Why we don’t just feed foods to our dogs.
Despite what other dog food review sites claim, simply giving a food to a dog and seeing if they eat it is completely unscientific and has little value as a review method. If you give a kid candy, they’ll happily eat it, but it doesn’t mean it’s good for them. And no one food suits every dog.
It’s also dangerous for dogs. We rate every dog food, good and bad. Why would we deliberately feed a dog bad dog food?
That said, we understand that personal experience of a food is important to dog parents and include consumer reviews on our pages.
What about lab-testing dog food?
Lab-testing dog food can provide useful, in-depth information, but as mentioned, there are thousands of dog foods on the market. We’d love to test them all, but there isn’t a facility in the country that could. Therefore, it’s impossible to have a fair universal rating system using lab tests.
It’s worth noting that dog food brands carry out their own testing. This ensures compliance with AAFCO and FDA pet food standards, as well as checking for pathogens.
Why you should trust our dog food reviews
Dog Food Advisor has been impartially reviewing dog food since 2008. We are the most trusted dog food review site in the United States, with a 4.9-star TrustPilot rating.
Here's why:
We do not accept money, gifts, samples or any other incentives in exchange for special consideration in writing our reviews.
We rate every dog food in the same way, using the only information we believe is equally available for all foods, reliable and therefore fair: what’s on the label. It’s the only way for any review site to rate every dog food on the market.
We focus on ingredients, nutrient profiles and recipes. We look at the ingredients used, including their quality, and review the nutritional analysis and macronutrient balance. We take into account any controversial or harmful ingredients.
Every review is expertly checked and approved by our highly qualified in-house animal nutritionist, Laura Ward.
We report all dog food and dog treat recalls through our Dog Food Recall Alert service, no matter the brand.
For more information, read our How We Rate Dog Food and Disclaimer and Disclosure pages.
More Top Picks
To view more top dog foods by category… click the link below that best meets your personal feeding needs.
Here are the most frequently asked questions we get about feeding dogs with food allergies:
Frequently Asked Questions
How can I switch to a new food without making my dog sick?
In this video…
Dr. Gary Richter shares a simple feeding tip that can help lower your dog’s risk of getting sick when you switch to a new recipe designed to help with food allergies.
It’s best to switch your dog to a new food gradually.
Start by mixing 20% “new” with 80% “old” food. Then, slowly increase that amount to a full 100% over the next 8 to 9 days.
| Schedule | Old Food | New Food |
|---|---|---|
| Days 1 and 2 | 80% | 20% |
| Days 3 and 4 | 60% | 40% |
| Days 5 and 6 | 40% | 60% |
| Days 7 and 8 | 20% | 80% |
| Day 9 | 0% | 100% |
What are the most common causes of food allergies in dogs?
The 6 most common canine food allergens1 include…
- Beef
- Chicken
- Chicken egg
- Dairy
- Soy
- Wheat gluten
Keep in mind, dogs aren’t naturally more allergic to these items. It’s just that they are the ingredients most commonly found in many dog food recipes.
Which also makes them the ones dogs are most frequently allergic to.
What are other causes of allergies and dry itchy skin in dogs?
Dog food isn’t the only cause of dietary and skin allergies.
Truth is…
Food allergies account for just 10% of all canine allergies.2
They’re only the third most common cause, ranked well behind fleas and environmental allergies.
Yet food is the first to be blamed whenever a dog shows any sign of an allergic reaction, like dry itchy skin.
What's the difference between a food allergy and a food intolerance?
A food allergy occurs when a dog’s immune system identifies a particular ingredient as harmful.
And then creates defensive antibodies to fight the invading enemy (the food).
On the other hand…
A food intolerance is a digestive problem rather than an immune response.
An intolerance occurs when a dog’s digestive system is unable to digest a specific ingredient.
For example, lactose intolerance is a common condition in which a dog is unable to digest lactose (a sugar found in milk).
How do the symptoms of dog food allergy and intolerance compare?
The symptoms of an allergy can include skin rash, hives, itching, paw biting, obsessive licking and sometimes nausea or vomiting.
The signs of food intolerance include (mainly) digestive distress, gas, bloating, nausea, vomiting or diarrhea.
Again, let’s use milk as an example…
A milk intolerance would look more like gastric distress. This can include symptoms like gas, bloating or diarrhea.
However, a milk allergy would produce an immune reaction (for example, itching or a rash).
Final word
The Dog Food Advisor does not accept money, gifts, samples or other incentives in exchange for special consideration in preparing our reviews.
However, we do receive a referral fee from online retailers (like Chewy or Amazon) and from sellers of perishable pet food when readers click over to their websites from ours. This helps cover the cost of operation of our free blog. Thanks for your support.
For more information, please visit our Disclaimer and Disclosure page.
