Hypoallergenic dog food

Only a vet’s diagnosis will confirm that your dog has a food allergy. If your dog is showing typical symptoms of an allergic reaction, e.g. diarrhoea, vomiting, itchy ears or skin problems, consult your vet and have your dog checked for allergies.

You can find further information on allergies and the diagnosis process in our magazine article on food allergies in dogs.

Above all, you must ensure that you provide food consisting of ingredients that your dog tolerates. Refer to the diagnosis of your veterinarian in this regard. It often helps to choose a single, previously not fed protein source and either no carbohydrates or a different carbohydrate source.

Gradually introduce your dog to the new food. While doing so, check that your dog tolerates the food better or if allergic reactions persist. The allergy food also has to taste good so that your dog doesn’t refuse to eat it. 

Allergens vary from one dog to the next. It’s best to consult your vet to pinpoint what your dog is allergic to. However, there are ingredients that frequently cause allergies in dogs. Examples include beef and poultry.

Most dog owners then switch to a sole source of protein. So-called single protein foods make it easier to restrict other allergens. Grain-free dog food is a popular choice for allergy sufferers. Carbohydrates are added from a range of vegetables.

Below is a list of ingredients that are well-tolerated by many allergic dogs and used as substitute ingredients:

• Lamb
• Ostrich
• Horse
• Kangaroo
• Insects
• Potato
• Pea 

It is not uncommon for dogs to have food allergies. Hence, there are numerous well-known brands that produce special dog food for allergic dogs. These are well-tolerated and can boost your dog’s well-being. Brands offering hypoallergenic dog food include:

• Royal Canin Veterinary
• Concept for Life Veterinary Diet
• Greenwoods
• Lukullus
• Hill’s Prescription Diet
• Rocco Diet Care
• Happy Dog
• Josera
• Bosch 

The effectiveness varies depending on the symptoms. While stomach issues often improve within 2-3 weeks or even faster, it may take 4-6 weeks for skin problems to show improvement.

Theoretically, all dogs, even those with no allergies, can eat hypoallergenic food. It is usually highly digestible food, which generally poses no disadvantage and can be suitable for dogs without allergies. However, to ensure that your dog gets all the essential nutrients, make sure that it is a complete food. 

Yes. In principle, any dog can suffer from a food allergy. According to studies, German Shepherds, Golden Retrievers, Labradors, Dachshunds, Dalmatians and Boxers are the most susceptible. 

Yes, you can feed your pet hypoallergenic foods on a permanent basis. As long as the food is a complete food and your dog tolerates it well. Depending on weight, age, and activity level, the hypoallergenic food may need to be adjusted in the future.