Food allergies and sensitivities are becoming increasingly common in dogs—and they can be tricky to spot. From itchy skin and upset stomachs to chronic ear infections or licking paws, the signs aren’t always obvious. If your dog seems uncomfortable or isn’t thriving on their current diet, a food allergy could be the cause.
In this blog, we’ll walk through how to recognize food allergies, what ingredients to avoid, and how to choose the best dog food for allergies. Plus, we’ll explain how BlackPaw’s Subscribe & Save and local delivery options make feeding your dog easier than ever.
Signs Your Dog May Have a Food Allergy
Unlike seasonal allergies that are triggered by environmental factors like pollen or dust, food allergies happen when your dog’s immune system reacts negatively to certain ingredients in their diet.
Common symptoms include:
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Itchy skin or chronic scratching
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Hair loss or hot spots
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Recurring ear infections
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Diarrhea or vomiting
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Excessive licking, especially of the paws
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Gas or bloating
If your dog displays one or more of these symptoms consistently, it’s time to consider whether food may be the culprit.
Common Dog Food Allergens
Some ingredients are more likely to trigger allergic reactions in dogs than others. These include:
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Beef
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Dairy
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Chicken
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Wheat
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Lamb
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Soy
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Eggs
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Corn
Note: Not all dogs are allergic to these ingredients. But if your dog is showing symptoms, switching to a limited ingredient diet (LID) or novel protein formula is a great first step.
How to Choose the Best Dog Food for Allergies
1. Start with a Limited Ingredient Diet (LID)
Limited ingredient foods contain fewer components, making it easier to identify what your dog can tolerate. These diets often include one protein and one carbohydrate source, avoiding common allergens.
Look for:
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Clearly labeled, single-source protein (e.g., duck, salmon, venison)
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Grain-free or whole grain options, depending on your vet’s recommendation
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No artificial preservatives, colors, or flavors
2. Try a Novel Protein
If your dog is allergic to common proteins like beef or chicken, consider switching to a novel protein—something they’ve never eaten before, like:
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Duck
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Rabbit
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Venison
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Kangaroo
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Fish
Novel proteins are less likely to trigger allergic responses and are widely available in high-quality formulas at BlackPaw.
3. Look for Hypoallergenic Formulas
Hypoallergenic dog food is designed to reduce allergic reactions and often includes hydrolyzed proteins (broken down into smaller components your dog’s immune system won’t recognize as allergens). These foods are ideal for dogs with confirmed food allergies diagnosed by your vet.
4. Avoid Fillers and By-Products
Choose foods that are free from unnecessary fillers like corn, soy, and wheat, and avoid vague ingredient labels like “meat meal” or “animal fat.” Look for transparency in ingredient sourcing and nutritional balance.
Don’t Forget Treats and Supplements
If you’re switching your dog’s food, be sure to check their treats and supplements too. Many common dog treats contain the same allergens you’re trying to avoid. At BlackPaw, we carry a wide range of limited ingredient and allergy-friendly treats to support your dog’s new diet.
How BlackPaw Can Help
At BlackPaw, we’re here to support your dog’s dietary needs with expert-approved, allergy-friendly food and treats. Whether your dog needs a grain-free formula, novel protein, or limited ingredient food, our team can help you find the right match.
Make it Even Easier with Subscribe & Save
Never run out of your dog’s special diet again. With BlackPaw’s Subscribe & Save program, you can:
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Schedule auto-deliveries of your dog’s food, treats, and supplements
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Save money on every order
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Enjoy free local delivery in Boulder County
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Adjust, pause, or cancel at any time
This means less stress for you—and uninterrupted nutrition for your dog.
FAQs About Dog Food Allergies
Can dogs develop food allergies later in life?
Yes. Dogs can develop sensitivities to ingredients they’ve eaten for years. Always consult your vet if you notice new symptoms.
How long does it take to see improvements after switching foods?
You may see signs of improvement within 4 to 6 weeks, though it can vary depending on the dog and the severity of the allergy.
Should I do an elimination diet?
In some cases, your vet may recommend an elimination diet—feeding your dog a simplified diet and gradually reintroducing ingredients to pinpoint allergens.
Find the Right Food for Your Dog at BlackPaw
If your pup is struggling with itchy skin, upset stomach, or food sensitivities, the right diet can make all the difference. At BlackPaw, we stock trusted brands and allergy-friendly formulas that support your dog’s unique needs.
Shop online or visit us in Louisville, CO to speak with our team and find the perfect fit.
Looking for allergy-friendly dog food and a better way to shop?
Try Subscribe & Save today and make feeding your dog easy, affordable, and stress-free.