If you’ve ever personally experienced allergies, you know just how uncomfortable (and irritating!) they can be. Dog allergies are equally unpleasant. So let’s explore what foods (meats specifically) can cause them — and give you some delicious vet-and-dog approved alternatives. 

What’s the Cause of Protein Allergies in Dogs?

Meat is an essential part of your dog’s diet, but did you know some proteins like beef and chicken can be allergy culprits?

You might be wondering: Why do dogs suddenly have sensitivities to certain foods or develop them over time?

Genetics can play a part or simply eating the same protein day after day. What’s the result? Itchy skin, tummy troubles, and one uncomfortable pup. 

The good news: There are plenty of nutritious, tasty dog-food meats such as fish, lamb, and rabbit (yes, rabbit), that can provide your dog with the protein, vitamins & minerals they need — without the unwanted reaction.

What meats and grains are most likely to trigger allergies in dogs? According to the experts at Veterinary Skin and Ear: 

• Beef: 34%

• Dairy: 17%

• Chicken: 15%

• Wheat: 13%

• Lamb: 5%

So how does this happen? Usually it’s prolonged exposure to a specific meat. While not all dogs develop an allergy for eating the same protein day after day, for years, some pup’s immune systems can perceive a regularly-eaten protein as a threat.

Over time, this leads to inflammation, making it tough for your dog’s body to properly break down that protein. Yikes. This can result in a bevy of discomfort, affecting their skin, digestion, and overall health. No thank you!

Introducing New Meat into Your Dog’s Diet

What’s the best way to keep your pup full and happy without pesky allergies? 

• Try sample packs, like Jinx Wet Dog Food Sampler, giving them a variety of premium, meaty goodness.

• Switch up those proteins! Some pet parents love to rotate their dog’s proteins every few months (or even years) for variety and fun. If you decide to try this, transition gradually between different foods to keep your dog’s tummy trouble-free.

• Opt for “novel proteins” like salmon, lamb, or rabbit. Choosing one of these in lieu of beef or chicken can help your pup get a well-rounded mix of protein and nutrients, without allergy-causing overexposure. 

Bonus: You’ll keep mealtime exciting!

That said, always be sure to switch your dog’s food gradually over a few weeks to avoid any tummy issues. We recommend mixing some of your dog’s new protein in with the old, adding a bit more each day, while reducing the allergy-causing protein.

Common Signs of Food Allergies in Dogs

One thing’s true about dog allergies: The symptoms definitely suck and your dog really doesn’t want them. If you happen to spot any of the following, speak to your vet about switching your pup’s meal plan to an allergy-friendly diet with a novel protein.

• Itchy, sore skin — especially around the face, paws, and ears

• Rash or redness on the belly or in skin folds

• Saliva staining — discolored fur from excessive licking

• Chronic ear infections

• Upset stomach — vomiting, diarrhea, or excessive gas

• Loss of appetite

Even if allergies aren’t a concern, a little variety in their bowl can enhance your dog’s mealtime experience and overall quality of life! Dogs do love their food (and new, fun flavors!)

What is the Best Meat for Dogs With Allergies?

Fortunately for us pet parents, there are loads of tasty, gentle alternatives to beef and chicken. The trick is to find meats that are not only easy on the tummy, but also rich in the proteins your dog needs to thrive. Here are some top-notch choices:

Fish

Fish is an excellent lean protein for dogs with food sensitivities. Whether it’s salmon (like this high-quality Grain-Free Salmon recipe from Jinx), white fish, or cod — fish is packed with helpful omega-3 fatty acids which support brain health, joint function, and a shiny coat! Added plus: Fish is (usually!) easy to digest, making it an excellent choice for pups with sensitive tummies.

Lamb

Lamb is a nutrient-dense, high in protein, amino acids, iron, calcium, zinc, and B vitamins — all the goods that contribute to strong muscles and overall health. If your dog’s turning their nose up at fish, lamb might be the way to go.

If you’re suddenly mutton-curious, check out our in-depth post: Is Lamb Good for Dogs? Why it's a Go-To Alternative for Chicken-Free Diets (add link)

Venison

Venison is a superb low-fat, high-protein option, great for overweight or less active dogs. It’s rich in B vitamins and iron (hello, energy!) as well as phosphorus and zinc, which support a healthy metabolism and your pup’s overall immune system. 

And yes, venison is considered a novel protein, meaning most dogs haven’t been overexposed to it, so an allergic reaction is less likely.

Rabbit

Rabbit has a lot going for it. It’s one of the leanest white meat, it’s naturally lower in cholesterol than beef or chicken, and it’s an incredible source of B12. Here’s the kicker: Rabbit contains more protein per serving than venison, chicken, beef, duck, lamb, turkey, or veal. A protein powerhouse for your pup.

 

Consider a Novel Protein Diet for Dogs With Allergies

Looking for the best diet to soothe your pup’s uncomfortable allergy symptoms? Enter the “Novel Protein Diet”. We’ve mentioned novel proteins a few times above but let’s get into the nitty gritty.

A Novel Protein Diet swaps out the usual suspects (chicken and beef) for something a little more… exotic. Rabbit, bison, lamb — oh my! Not only can it help minimize allergies in your dog, it offers your dog a new sensory-taste experience!

As said, the shift to a Novel Protein Diet can be super helpful for dogs with sensitive stomachs. They’re less likely to suffer allergic reactions, and they’ll benefit from new, hypoallergenic nutrients in their diet. Serious win-win.

Novel Protein Diet Considerations

Keep in mind that while novel protein diets are effective, some can be more time-consuming and expensive than regular diets, as proteins like rabbit and bison tend to be pricier and sometimes harder to find. You may need to order online or visit specialty stores.

Thankfully your pals at Jinx’ have developed affordable novel-protein dog foods — packed with quality goodness! — like our Atlantic Salmon Kibble (with grain and grain-free), and our new Grass-Fed Lamb Kibble.

The benefits of novel proteins for allergy-prone dogs are almost too numerous to count! So if your dog’s feeling icky-scratchy from the same ole food, definitely worth a switch — just be sure to transition gradually to avoid tummy woes.

Quality Food for Dogs With Allergies

Finding the right protein for your pup doesn’t have to be a guessing game. Whether you’re introducing fish, lamb, venison, or rabbit into your dog’s diet, you’re really just looking for great-quality ingredients.

At Jinx, we're here to upgrade the way you care for your dog — no matter the protein — by giving you holistic nutrition made with real ingredients and a whole lotta love.

Hypoallergenic Dog Food Options

Hypoallergenic dog food — aka, less likely to cause a reaction — can be a game-changer for pups with allergies and sensitive stomachs because common allergens are literally removed from the dog food.

No surprise then that a lot of hypoallergenic diets are often grain-and-chicken-free as poultry and grain can trigger food sensitivities. 

Opting for a dog food like our grain-and-chicken free Jinx Lamb Kibble can reduce potential food sensitivies, making meal-time (and what comes after!) easier on your pup.

Ingredients and Dog Food for Pups with a Sensitive Stomach

On the hunt for food that's gentle on your sweet dog’s tummy? Here are some ingredients (and phrases!) to keep an eye out for on the packaging:

• Easily Digestible Proteins — These usually include novel proteins like lamb, rabbit, or venison.

• Limited Ingredient Diet (LID) — Just like it says, there are fewer ingredients. The right simple foods can cause fewer complications.

• Probiotics and Prebiotics — The unsung heroes in your dog’s diet, pro-and-prebiotics support their healthy gut flora. 

• Fatty Acids: Omega-3 and Omega-6 fatty acids assist on a lot of fronts: your dog’s brain and skin health, plus they  reduce inflammation. A wellness boost in every bite.

Be sure to keep an eye out for these when researching food! Especially if your dog has a sensitive stomach or allergies. It can make a huge difference in their comfort and overall health.

Looking for a trusted, tasty option that licks, er ticks, all these boxes? Check out Jinx’s Grass-Fed Lamb Kibble, specially formulated to nurture your pup’s digestion while providing essential nutrients for a well-balanced diet.

The Bottom Line on Dog Food Allergies

We get it, dealing with your dog’s food allergies can feel challenging! Hopefully this post has been helpful.

Whether you're trying to pinpoint an allergy trigger, or you’re ready to go hypoallergenic to cure them — the key lies in selecting dog food that’s tailored to your pup’s unique needs. 

Curious about which proteins are best for your dog? Have more questions about your dog’s specific allergies? Don’t hesitate to reach out to your vet or the friendly experts at Jinx. We’re here to help you make the best choice for your furry family member.