15 Best Hypoallergenic Dog Foods 2025: Vet-Recommended

This content was reviewed and fact-checked by veterinarian Dr. Aukse Caraite, DVM.

You feed your pup the highest-quality kibble, yet they’re constantly itching, suffering from digestive issues, or even losing fur. Could their daily meal be the culprit? Food allergies in dogs are more common than most owners realize, and the wrong ingredients can trigger everything from chronic ear infections to upset stomachs. But here’s the tricky part: even “healthy” dog foods can contain allergens that wreak havoc on sensitive pups. So, how do you separate marketing gimmicks from truly hypoallergenic options that will keep your dog happy and symptom-free? In this guide, we’ll break down the best hypoallergenic dog food options to help you choose a diet that supports your dog’s health—without the trial and error.

How to Pick The Best Hypoallergenic Dog Food

To choose the best hypoallergenic dog food for your pet, consider the following factors:

1. Identify the type of allergy: Determine whether the allergy is food-related or environmental to make an informed decision about your dog’s diet. Common food allergens like beef, chicken, dairy, wheat, soy, and eggs can cause itching, rashes, ear infections, vomiting, diarrhea, or excessive licking. Environmental allergies triggered by dust, pollen, or mold may show similar symptoms.

2. Perform an elimination diet and always talk to your vet: Limit treats and other foods, as they could trigger allergic reactions. For personalized advice, you can connect with an online registered vet nutritionist through Vetster anytime. You can also chat with an online vet to discuss your dog’s nutritional needs. If your dog shows signs of food sensitivities or allergies, consider an at-home dog allergy test to identify specific triggers or a gut health test to analyze their microbiome. This information can help you confidently choose the right formula, avoid allergenic ingredients, and develop a care plan to manage your dog’s allergies.

3. Pick the right ingredients

• Novel proteins: Options like venison, duck, lamb, rabbit, or fish are ideal for dogs with common protein allergies.
• Limited ingredients: Look for dog foods with a short list of ingredients to reduce potential allergens.
• Grain-free vs. whole grains: Opt for grain-free formulas if your dog has a confirmed grain sensitivity; otherwise, whole grains like oats and quinoa may be suitable.

4. Look for allergen-free diets:

• Fresh diets: Use the ingredients in their most natural state, avoiding all chemicals and allergens found in processed dog foods.
• Hydrolyzed protein diets: Proteins are broken down into smaller molecules, making them less likely to trigger an immune response.
• Prescription diets: Available through your vet, these diets are designed specifically for dogs with severe allergies.
• Allergy-friendly brands: Brands like Hill’s Science Diet, Royal Canin, and Blue Buffalo offer specialized formulas.

5. Check for added nutritional support: (i) Omega-3 fatty acids support skin health and reduce inflammation. (ii) Probiotics to promote a healthy gut, which can alleviate allergy symptoms. (iii) No artificial additives or chemicals.

6. Monitor your dog’s response: Keep a food diary to track your dog’s reactions to new foods. Look for improvements in symptoms like reduced itching, better coat condition, and regular stools.

Best Hypoallergenic Dog Foods

Here are the best hypoallergenic dog foods of this year.

Best Overall Hypoallergenic Dog Food

Why we recommended it: The Farmer’s Dog offers fresh meals tailored to your dog’s specific needs, considering dietary requirements, calorie intake, age, size, preferences, health issues such as allergies, food intolerances, cancer and more. The company collaborates with board-certified veterinary nutritionists to ensure each recipe meets AAFCO standards for balanced nutrition.

What sets it apart from competitors: Unlike many competitors, The Farmer’s Dog exclusively uses wholesome, USDA-approved human-grade ingredients fit for human consumption. Meals are pre-portioned and delivered directly to your door, making it a hassle-free option for busy pet parents.

How this formula hypoallergenic works: It uses gentle cooking and flash-frozen methods which help preserve the nutritional integrity of every ingredient, promoting better digestion, nutrient absorption, and reducing the risk of allergen formation compared to heavily processed kibble. Their formulas never include allergens like fillers, artificial additives, low-quality proteins, and by-products, which often cause inflammation in dogs. Think of The Farmer’s Dog as balanced homemade meals cooked by vet nutritionists using only fresh, whole-food ingredients that are easier for dogs to digest, reducing the risk of gastrointestinal upset.

Best Hypoallergenic Dry Dog Food

Why we recommended it: Spot & Tango Unkibble delivers the convenience of dry food with the quality of fresh ingredients, making it a healthier alternative to traditional dry dog food. The novel protein source (cod & salmon) reduces the risk of allergic reactions, while its grain-free composition eliminates common irritants like wheat, corn, and soy. Plus, the inclusion of superfoods like blueberries and cranberries provides additional antioxidant benefits.

What sets it apart from competitors: UnKibble is gently dried at low temperatures, preserving more nutrients and flavor, making this formula both gentle on digestion and highly nutritious. There are no powdered meat meals, fillers, or artificial preservatives. Spot & Tango also offers personalized meal plans tailored to a dog’s breed, weight, and activity level, ensuring a more customized feeding experience.

How this formula hypoallergenic works: This hypoallergenic formula works by eliminating common allergens (like chicken, beef, wheat, and soy) and using easily digestible whole foods instead. The cod and salmon provide high-quality protein and omega-3 fatty acids, which help reduce skin irritation and inflammation. Ingredients like pumpkin, spinach, and dried kelp supply natural fiber and prebiotics to support gut health, while antioxidants from blueberries and cranberries help strengthen the immune system.

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Best Hypoallergenic Wet Dog Food

Why we recommended it: The JustFoodForDogs Pantry Fresh Balance Remedy hypoallergenic recipe combines 100% human-grade ingredients with veterinary-backed science. It is prepared in USDA-certified kitchens and avoids feed-grade fillers, artificial additives, and preservatives—common irritants for dogs’ digestive systems. Unlike most wet dog foods, which can be rich and heavy, this formula keeps things simple: a single protein (lean ground turkey) and starch source (rice), which minimizes allergy triggers and eases digestion.

What sets it apart from competitors: The Tetra Pak technology is a standout feature. While most fresh or vet-recommended diets require freezing, this shelf-stable formula retains freshness for up to two years without refrigeration until opened—ideal for emergencies or travel. Competitors often use higher-fat proteins or synthetic fortification, but JustFoodForDogs relies on cold-pressed oils (sunflower, coconut, flaxseed) to deliver omega fatty acids naturally, reducing inflammation without harsh processing.

How this hypoallergenic formula works: The hypoallergenic recipe’s ultra-low fat content (1-4%) and limited ingredients reduce the workload on the pancreas and intestines, making it easier for dogs to absorb nutrients without irritation. The low fiber (1%) and low-residue design minimize stool volume and gas, while the inclusion of easily digestible white rice provides gentle carbohydrates for energy. Though white rice is less nutrient-dense than brown rice, its simplicity helps avoid overwhelming sensitive systems. Ground turkey serves as a lean, novel protein, reducing the risk of triggering common protein allergies from chicken or beef. The moisture-rich texture also aids in hydration, benefiting dogs prone to constipation or dehydration-related digestive issues. The inclusion of fish oil and flaxseed oil ensures a rich source of omega-3 fatty acids, which help reduce skin irritation, inflammation, and itching, common symptoms of food allergies.

Best Hypoallergenic Dog Food for Puppies

Why we recommended it: The Gently Cooked Open Farm puppy recipe is specifically designed to provide essential nutrients for optimal growth and development while minimizing the risk of allergic reactions. It includes prebiotic fiber from pumpkin and chicory root, which supports healthy digestion and gut health. Additionally, it contains calcium iodate for energy production and essential amino acids to promote muscular and cognitive development in puppies.

What sets it apart from competitors: Uses a blend of proteins (pork, salmon & chicken) that are less likely to trigger food allergies. It also includes added collagen for healthy joint development, crucial for growing puppies.

How this formula works for allergies: This hypoallergenic formula is gently cooked to retain nutrients and avoid allergens created through heavy processing. It contains pumpkin, butternut squash, and prebiotic fibers that support a healthy digestive system, reducing symptoms like diarrhea or gas commonly linked to allergies.

Best Hypoallergenic Dog Food for Sensitive Stomachs

Why we recommended it: Open Farm’s Pollock & Oatmeal Digestive Health Kibble combines easily digestible, hypoallergenic ingredients with nutrients to reduce stomach sensitivities. It features wild Alaskan pollock as the first ingredient, combined with stomach-soothing fibers like oatmeal and pumpkin. Open Farm distinguishes itself through its commitment to ethical sourcing and ingredient transparency.

What sets it apart from competitors: The recipe’s inclusion of prebiotics, probiotics, and postbiotics supports a balanced gut microbiome, which is not commonly found in standard dog foods.

How this hypoallergenic formula works: This formula contains gut-supporting ingredients, and skin-nourishing nutrients to aid dogs with sensitive stomachs and skin. Wild-caught Alaskan pollock, a novel protein source, reduces the risk of allergic reactions associated with more common proteins. Pollock also offers omega-3 fatty acids, which help reduce gut inflammation and soothe irritated skin. Oatmeal and barley supply soluble fiber for smooth digestion, while pumpkin and dried chicory root act as prebiotics to support a balanced gut microbiome. The inclusion of dried Bacillus coagulans fermentation product (a probiotic) further strengthens digestion, improving stool consistency and reducing stomach discomfort. For skin health, flaxseed, sunflower oil, and coconut oil provide essential fatty acids that help hydrate the skin, reduce itching, and strengthen the skin barrier. Antioxidant-rich ingredients like blueberries, cranberries, and turmeric support anti-inflammatory benefits, further protecting the skin from irritation.

Best Hypoallergenic Dog Food with Hydrolyzed Protein

Why we recommended it: ​SquarePet’s Veterinarian Formulated Solutions (VFS) Hydrolyzed Protein Pork formula is a high-quality, limited ingredients formula with the use of hydrolyzed pork protein, which has been broken down into smaller components, making it exceptionally digestible and less likely to trigger allergic reactions. 

What sets it apart from competitors: While most hydrolyzed dog foods require a prescription, this formula offers a premium hydrolyzed alternative without needing one, providing a cost-effective option for pet owners. The product is made in the USA within an SQF certified manufacturing facility, ensuring high quality and safety standards.

How this hypoallergenic formula works: Aside from providing a digestible protein source, the diet contains dandelion greens, which aid in promoting a healthy gut microbiome and are crucial for optimal digestion and immune function.​ Additionally, marine microalgae serve as a direct source of DHA, further enhancing the diet’s anti-inflammatory properties. The formula also incorporates sunflower oil, a source of linoleic acid (an omega-6 fatty acid), which is essential for maintaining skin barrier function and coat condition. The balanced inclusion of these fatty acids helps manage inflammatory responses and supports a healthy coat.

Best Budget-Friendly Hypoallergenic Dog Food

Why we recommended it: Brothers Complete Chicken (or Turkey) Meal and Egg Formula is a budget-friendly hypoallergenic dog food designed for dogs with food sensitivities, allergies, or digestive issues. It offers a balanced nutritional profile with high-quality ingredients and uses chicken meal as its primary protein source, which is a concentrated form of protein, providing nearly 300% more protein than fresh chicken. The inclusion of whole dried eggs further enhances the protein content and digestibility of the food.

What sets it apart from competitors: Focuses on gut health and allergy prevention. The formula includes encapsulated probiotics and digestive enzymes to support a healthy digestive system. Additionally, the use of cassava root as a carbohydrate source instead of grains or potatoes may help prevent “leaky gut” issues that can lead to food allergies and skin problems.

How this hypoallergenic formula works: It reduces allergic reactions by using highly digestible animal proteins while avoiding common allergens like corn, wheat, and soy. Prebiotics (inulin FOS) and probiotics (Lactobacillus, Enterococcus) support gut health, reducing food sensitivity symptoms. Digestive enzymes enhance nutrient absorption, minimizing digestive distress. Omega-3s from flaxseed and algae help combat inflammation and promote skin health, while rosemary, green tea, and cranberry antioxidants strengthen the immune system.

Best Hypoallergenic Dog Food for Skin Allergies

Why we recommended it: Diamond Care Sensitive Skin hypoallergenic formula is made with hydrolyzed salmon, a novel protein source that is less likely to trigger allergic reactions and is rich in Omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids, which strengthen the skin’s natural barrier, reducing irritation and itchiness. It’s also enriched with vitamins and minerals to promote skin repair and strengthen the immune system.

What sets it apart from competitors: Includes proprietary K9 Strain Probiotics to support gut health, which plays a vital role in reducing allergic reactions.

How this hypoallergenic formula works: The hydrolyzed salmon proteins in this formula are broken down into amino acids or peptides, which are small enough that the immune system cannot recognize them as allergens. The process of hydrolyzation also makes proteins more digestible, reducing the strain on a dog’s digestive system. This helps minimize the chances of triggering allergic reactions, such as itching, gastrointestinal distress, or ear infections.

Best Hypoallergenic Dog Food For Seniors

Why we recommended it: JustFoodForDogs Senior dog food provides a hypoallergenic diet tailored to an older dog’s slower metabolism and digestive needs. It’s prepared in USDA-certified kitchens with ingredients like ground lamb, brown rice, and blueberries—this balanced mix of natural ingredients ensures that senior dogs get the necessary energy and lean muscle support without putting unnecessary strain on their digestive system.

What sets it apart from competitors: Unlike heavily processed senior dog foods, this meal is lightly cooked and frozen to maintain freshness without artificial preservatives while preserving enzymes and bioavailability—critical for seniors with weakened digestion.

How this hypoallergenic formula works: Lamb serves as a novel protein source, reducing the risk of triggering food allergies common in dogs. Brown rice offers a source of complex carbohydrates that help stabilize digestion, regulate bowel movements and minimize bloating or diarrhea. The inclusion of prebiotic-rich spinach and cauliflower adds soluble fiber for healthy gut motility, and blueberries contribute antioxidants to reduce oxidative stress and support immune health. Safflower and fish oil supply omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids, which soothe gastrointestinal inflammation and promote skin, coat, and brain health.

Best Vet-Prescribed Hypoallergenic Dog Food

Why we recommended it: Hill’s Prescription Diet z/d Skin/Food Sensitivities Dry is a veterinarian-prescribed hypoallergenic dog food clinically proven to help dogs avoid adverse reactions to food. Developed by Hill’s nutritionists and veterinarians, z/d uses hydrolyzed animal proteins that are broken down into smaller components, making them less likely to trigger allergic responses. The formula also includes increased essential fatty acids and vitamin E levels to promote a healthy skin barrier.

What sets it apart from competitors: It combines hydrolyzed proteins with a proprietary blend of prebiotics called ActivBiome+ technology, which helps nourish the gut microbiome and support digestive health. This dual-action approach targets both the immune system’s reaction to food and overall digestive well-being.

How this hypoallergenic formula works: It uses hydrolyzed chicken liver and hydrolyzed chicken are broken down into smaller peptides, making them less likely to trigger an immune response. Corn starch serves as a purified carbohydrate source, reducing exposure to common allergens while providing a digestible energy source. Powdered cellulose contributes natural fiber, supporting healthy digestion and stool consistency.

Best Hypoallergenic Raw Dog Food

Why we recommended it: Raw dog food diets, such as those offered by We Feed Raw (our top pick for the best raw dog food delivery brands), are often considered hypoallergenic due to their use of natural, unprocessed ingredients that closely align with a dog’s ancestral diet. By focusing on high-quality, single-protein sources and eliminating common allergens like grains, fillers, and artificial additives, these diets aim to reduce the incidence of allergic reactions in sensitive dogs.​ This formula is protein-packed with 80% meat and organs and 15% non-GMO fruits, vegetables, vitamins, and minerals to give your dog a complete BARF diet. It’s minimally processed, never cooked, pure, natural nutrition to keep your best friend strong. 

What sets it apart from competitors: Provides whole, unaltered ingredients that dogs are less likely to encounter the processed proteins and additives that often trigger allergies. This approach minimizes potential allergens and supports overall health by offering a more natural nutrient profile.

Homemade Hypoallergenic Dog Food

Preparing homemade dog food can be an excellent way to manage food sensitivities, as it allows you to control ingredients and eliminate common allergens like artificial additives, fillers, and low-quality proteins. A well-balanced hypoallergenic diet should focus on easily digestible proteins (such as turkey, duck, or venison), gut-friendly carbohydrates (like sweet potatoes or quinoa), natural probiotics (such as kefir or goat’s milk), and anti-inflammatory fats (like fish oil or flaxseed oil) to support digestion while minimizing allergic reactions. For a complete and balanced homemade diet, check out our dedicated guide on homemade dog food to discover more vet-approved recipes, nutrition tips, and feeding guidelines. Consider using a DIY Nutrient Kit from JustFoodForDogs or The Farmer’s Dog to ensure your pup gets essential vitamins and minerals. If you’re looking for allergy-friendly treats, explore our homemade dog treat recipes for simple, nutritious snacks that won’t upset sensitive stomachs. Before making any dietary changes, consult with your veterinarian or a pet nutritionist to confirm that your homemade meals meet your dog’s specific nutritional needs.

Other Hypoallergenic Dog Foods

The Bottom Line

Finding the best hypoallergenic dog food isn’t just about eliminating symptoms but transforming your dog’s quality of life. By identifying triggers, choosing the right ingredients, and making informed decisions, you can put an end to chronic itching, digestive distress, and discomfort for good. The right diet can mean more energy, a shinier coat, fewer vet visits, and, most importantly, a healthier, happier pup. Beyond diet, boosting your dog’s gut health can further support allergy management. Adding probiotics to their meals can strengthen the immune system, improve digestion, and help reduce allergic reactions. The right dog probiotics can enhance overall well-being, making them a valuable addition to an allergy-conscious feeding plan.

For dogs still experiencing allergy flare-ups, the right allergy dog medication can provide much-needed relief. Pairing an effective allergy treatment with a well-balanced, hypoallergenic diet offers a holistic approach to managing symptoms. When quick relief is needed, over-the-counter allergy medications can be a practical option, while natural home remedies can soothe itchy skin and reduce inflammation. These gentle solutions work alongside diet to provide lasting comfort.

Now that you know what to look for, it’s time to take action. Swap uncertainty for confidence, trial and error for real results, and give your dog the relief they deserve—one meal at a time. By combining the right food, supplements, and treatments, you can help your pup live a healthier, more comfortable life.

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Sources

Canine Bible uses only high-quality sources, including peer-reviewed studies, to support the facts within our articles. Read our editorial process and product review methodology to learn more about how we fact-check, test products, and keep our content accurate, reliable, and trustworthy.