10 Best Dog Food for Itchy Skin and Allergies 2023 © Bestie Paws Hospital (2023)

A dog’s diet can have a significant impact on its overall health and well-being, including the condition of its skin and coat. For dogs with sensitive, itchy skin, finding the right food can be especially important. In this article, we will explore the factors that contribute to sensitive, itchy skin in dogs and discuss the characteristics of the best dog food for this condition.

What’s the best dog food for itchy skin?

If your furry friend suffers from sensitive, itchy skin, finding the right dog food can be a challenge. But don’t worry – there are plenty of options out there that can help alleviate your dog’s skin irritation and provide all the nutrients they need to stay healthy and happy.

One of the best dog foods for sensitive, itchy skin is Royal Canin Hypoallergenic Hydrolyzed Protein Dry Dog Food. This formula is specifically designed for dogs with food allergies or intolerances, and it uses hydrolyzed protein (a protein that has been broken down into smaller pieces) to minimize the risk of an allergic reaction. It’s also made with high-quality sources of carbohydrates, such as brown rice and potato, which are gentle on the digestive system and can help reduce inflammation.

Another great option is Purina Pro Plan Veterinary Diets HA Hydrolyzed Formula Dry Dog Food. Like the Royal Canin formula, this food uses hydrolyzed protein to help prevent allergic reactions, and it also includes prebiotics to support digestive health. It’s formulated without corn, wheat, or soy, making it a good choice for dogs with multiple allergies or sensitivities.

If your dog prefers wet food, you might want to try Hill’s Science Diet Adult Sensitive Stomach & Skin Wet Dog Food. This formula is made with real chicken and barley, and it’s free from artificial colors, flavors, and preservatives. It’s also enriched with vitamins and minerals to support overall health, and it’s formulated to be easy on the digestive system.

No matter which option you choose, be sure to speak with your veterinarian before making any changes to your dog’s diet. They can help you determine the best food for your dog’s specific needs and ensure that they are getting all the nutrients they need to stay healthy and happy.

What kind of dog food is best for dogs with skin allergies?

When it comes to dogs with skin allergies, finding the right type of dog food can be a bit of a challenge. This is because many commercial dog foods contain ingredients that can trigger allergic reactions in sensitive dogs.

One of the best types of dog food for dogs with skin allergies is a limited-ingredient diet. These types of dog foods contain fewer ingredients, which can help to reduce the risk of an allergic reaction. They typically include a single source of protein, such as chicken or fish, along with a limited number of carbohydrates, such as sweet potatoes or peas.

Another option is a hypoallergenic dog food. These types of dog foods are specifically formulated to be less likely to trigger allergic reactions in sensitive dogs. They often contain novel proteins, such as venison or rabbit, which are less likely to cause an allergic reaction.

It’s also important to choose a dog food that is free of common allergens, such as corn, wheat, and soy. These ingredients are often used as fillers in commercial dog foods, but they can be very irritating to dogs with skin allergies.

Finally, it’s a good idea to look for a dog food that is made with high-quality, natural ingredients. These types of dog foods are less likely to contain artificial preservatives, colors, and flavors, which can also trigger allergic reactions in sensitive dogs.

What is the best hypoallergenic dog food at Walmart/PetSmart?

Here’s a list of the best hypoallergenic dog foods:

1. Purina Pro Plan Sensitive Skin & Stomach, High Protein Dry Dog Food
2. Hill’s Science Diet Dry Dog Food, Adult, Sensitive Stomach & Skin
3. Blue Buffalo Basics Skin & Stomach Care, Natural Adult Dry Dog Food
4. CANIDAE Pure Limited Ingredient Premium Adult Dry Dog Food
5. NUTRO Limited Ingredient Diet Adult Grain Free Dry Dog Food
6. Wellness Simple Natural Limited Ingredient Dry Dog Food
7. Rachael Ray Nutrish Just 6 Limited Ingredient Diet Dry Dog Food
8. Wild Earth Dog Food for Allergies, Vegan Dry Dog Food, High Protein Plant-Based Kibble
9. Hill’s Prescription Diet Derm Complete Environmental, Skin & Food Sensitivities Dry Dog Food, Veterinary Diet
10. Hill’s Prescription Diet z/d Skin/Food Sensitivities Dry Dog Food, Veterinary Diet

What homemade food is good for dogs with itchy skin and allergies?

Homemade food can be a great option for dogs with allergies, as it allows you to control the ingredients and avoid any potential triggers. Here are some ideas for homemade food that is good for dogs with allergies:

Cooked rice and chicken: This simple meal is easy to digest and can be a great option for dogs with allergies to other protein sources. Just cook the rice and chicken separately, then mix them together and serve.

Sweet potato and turkey: Sweet potatoes are a great source of fiber and nutrients, and turkey is a lean protein that is often well-tolerated by dogs with allergies. Combine these two ingredients for a tasty and healthy meal.

Boiled eggs and steamed vegetables: Eggs are a great source of protein and can be easily cooked in a variety of ways. Steamed vegetables are also easy to digest and can provide a range of nutrients.

Oat and fish stew: Oats are a good source of fiber and can be easily cooked with a variety of fish options, such as salmon or cod. This stew is easy to digest and can be a great option for dogs with allergies.

Pumpkin and beef: Pumpkin is a great source of fiber and is often well-tolerated by dogs with allergies. Combine it with a lean protein like beef for a tasty and healthy meal.

What food causes itchy skin in dogs?

Itchy skin in dogs can be caused by a variety of factors, including allergies, parasites, and infections. One possible trigger for itchy skin in dogs is food. Here are some common types of food that may cause itchy skin in dogs:

Grains: Some dogs may be allergic to grains like wheat, corn, and soy, which are often used as fillers in commercial dog food. If your dog is allergic to grains, it may cause itchy skin and other symptoms like diarrhea, vomiting, and coughing.

Chicken: Chicken is a common protein source in dog food, but some dogs may be allergic to it. If your dog is allergic to chicken, it may cause itchy skin and other symptoms like redness, swelling, and difficulty breathing.

Beef: Like chicken, beef is another common protein source in dog food. However, some dogs may be allergic to beef, which can cause itchy skin and other symptoms like redness, swelling, and difficulty breathing.

Dairy: Some dogs may be intolerant to dairy products, which can cause itchy skin and other symptoms like diarrhea, vomiting, and bloating.

Artificial preservatives and additives: Some commercial dog food brands contain artificial preservatives and additives that may cause itchy skin and other symptoms in some dogs.

How do you tell if my dog is allergic to his food?

There are a few signs to look for if you suspect your dog may be allergic to their food. These include:

Itching and scratching: If your dog is constantly scratching or biting at their skin, it could be a sign of an allergic reaction. This can be especially noticeable around the face, paws, and underside of the body.

Skin irritation: Allergic reactions can cause redness and inflammation of the skin, resulting in bumps or rash-like appearances.

Digestive issues: If your dog is experiencing diarrhea or vomiting after eating, it could be a sign of an allergy.

Respiratory issues: Allergic reactions can also affect your dog’s respiratory system, causing coughing, sneezing, or difficulty breathing.

What do vets recommend for dogs with itchy skin?

Identify and treat any underlying cause: Vets may recommend blood work or skin tests to identify any underlying health issues that may be causing the itching, such as allergies or infections. They may also recommend medications or other treatments to address the root cause.

Use a hypoallergenic shampoo: If the itching is due to allergies, a hypoallergenic shampoo can help soothe the skin and reduce irritation. These shampoos are free of ingredients that may trigger allergies and are gentle on the skin.

Supplement with fatty acids: Fatty acids, such as omega-3 and omega-6, can help reduce inflammation and improve the overall health of the skin. Vets may recommend supplements that contain these fatty acids or adding them to your dog’s diet through foods like salmon or flaxseed oil.

Use a humidifier: Dry air can exacerbate skin irritation, so using a humidifier can help add moisture to the air and reduce itchiness.

Avoid using flea prevention products with harsh chemicals: Some flea prevention products can contain harsh chemicals that may irritate the skin. Vets may recommend using a more natural or gentle option to prevent fleas without causing further irritation.

Avoid exposure to allergens: If your dog has allergies, it’s important to try and minimize their exposure to allergens as much as possible. This may involve using air purifiers, keeping the house clean, and avoiding certain types of grass or plants.

Conclusion of best itchy skin dog food

The best way to find out if your dog has an allergy is by trying different foods and seeing how his symptoms change. The goal is to help you find the best dog food for your pet’s unique needs.

Here are our top picks:

• Royal Canin Hypoallergenic Hydrolyzed Protein Dry Dog Food
• Purina Pro Plan Sensitive Skin & Stomach, High Protein Dry Dog Food
• Hill’s Prescription Diet Derm Complete Environmental, Skin & Food Sensitivities Dry Dog Food, Veterinary Diet
• Blue Buffalo Basics Skin & Stomach Care, Natural Adult Dry Dog Food
• CANIDAE Pure Limited Ingredient Premium Adult Dry Dog Food

Pros:

• Itchy skin dog food is specifically formulated to address the nutritional needs of dogs with itchy skin. It is often made with high-quality protein sources, such as fish or lamb, which are less likely to cause allergic reactions.
• Itchy skin dog food is also rich in fatty acids, such as omega-3 and omega-6, which can help to reduce inflammation and soothe itchy skin.
• Many itchy-skin dog food brands are grain-free, which can be beneficial for dogs with sensitivities to grains.

Cons:

1. Itchy skin dog food can be more expensive than regular dog food, especially if you have a large breed dog.
2. Some dogs may not respond well to itchy skin dog food, and it may not be the sole solution for their itchy skin issues. It may be necessary to also address other factors such as environmental allergies or parasites.
3. Itchy skin dog food may not be suitable for all dogs, especially those with other health issues or allergies to certain ingredients. It is always best to consult with a veterinarian before switching your dog’s diet.

It is important to work with a veterinarian to determine the root cause of the itchiness and determine the best course of action. It may be necessary to combine itchy skin dog food with other treatments, such as medications or environmental modifications, to achieve optimal results.