First Five Ingredients: Corn starch, hydrolyzed poultry, coconut oil, vegetable oil, natural flavors  | Type: Prescription dry kibble | Life Stage: Adult 

Dogs often develop allergies to animal protein in their diet. Hydrolyzed food can be a solution to this issue. A hydrolyzed diet breaks down the animal proteins into tiny pieces, which the immune system doesn't recognize as allergens. 

If your dog has been on various diets with different animal proteins, Royal Canin Ultamino might be the perfect solution. This kibble contains poultry proteins broken down into single amino acids, which reduces the chances of an allergic reaction.

What We Like:
• Best hydrolyzed option
• Specific nutrients like B vitamins reinforce the skin barrier
• Strict manufacturing procedures prevent cross-contamination

What We Don’t Like:
• The first ingredient isn't an animal protein
• Not available in a wet, canned version

First Five Ingredients: Water, hydrolyzed chicken liver, corn starch, powdered cellulose, soybean oil | Type: Prescription wet food | Life Stage: Adult and senior

Hill’s Prescription Diet Z/D is a specialized dog food tailor-made for dogs with food sensitivities. Created by expert veterinarians and nutritionists, this recipe is specifically designed to minimize the risk of an allergic reaction. The animal protein in this food is highly hydrolyzed and contains only one carbohydrate source.

For those picky eaters, a canned version of the food is also available, with extra moisture content to aid in hydration. Hill’s diet can also help reduce the risk of typical urinary crystal formation, making it an ideal choice for dogs with urinary health concerns and allergies.

What We Like:
• Free from additives commonly associated with dog allergies
• Wet formula is more palatable
• Contains natural fiber

What We Don’t Like:
• Only available in one flavor

First Five Ingredients: Potatoes, potato starch, duck, potato protein, soybean oil | Type: Prescription dry kibble | Life Stage: Adult and senior | Other Flavors: Potato and salmon, potato and venison

Hill’s Prescription Diet D/D is a specially formulated diet that provides your dog with a unique protein source. It’s suitable for adult and senior dogs, making it a great choice if your furry friend is transitioning between the two age groups.

Unlike over-the-counter options that may contain contaminants from other types of animal proteins, a prescription novel protein diet is often a better choice. These contaminants can trigger an allergic reaction in your dog, making it essential to opt for a safer and healthier option like Hill’s Prescription Diet D/D.

Note: If your dog has previously consumed duck-containing food or treats, this option may not suit your pet. 

What We Like:
• Only contains one animal protein to reduce potential allergen exposure
• High levels of omega-3 fatty acids and antioxidants
• No soy protein

What We Don’t Like:
• High cost
• Must be prescribed by a veterinarian

First Five Ingredients: Kangaroo, kangaroo meal, peas, pea flour, chickpeas  | Type: Dry kibble | Life Stage: All life stages | Other Flavors:  Lamb, trout and salmon, turkey, catfish, pork, goat, venison, whitefish, duck

Zignature Kangaroo Formula is a novel protein diet made with kangaroo meat. While many dog foods and treats come with exotic animal protein sources such as bison or duck, most dogs have never tasted kangaroo meat before and may benefit from this dog food as part of a strict diet trial.

Kangaroo meat is an excellent source of lean animal protein, ideal for dogs that need to manage their weight. Moreover, compared to other animal proteins, kangaroo meat contains significantly higher levels of B12.

Note: Zignature Kangaroo Formula is available over the counter, but you should still consult your vet before changing your pup’s diet.

What We Like:
• Contains probiotics
• Available in a small bites formula for smaller breeds
• Appropriate for all life stages


What We Don’t Like:
• More expensive than other over-the-counter novel protein diets

First Five Ingredients: Venison, butternut squash, sweet potatoes, brussels sprouts, cranberries | Type: Fresh frozen | Life Stage: Adult | Other Flavors: Chicken and white rice, beef and russet potato, turkey and whole wheat macaroni, fish and sweet potato, lamb and brown rice, tofu and quinoa

Providing your dog with fresh and healthy food is absolutely essential for their wellbeing. However, creating a well-balanced and nutritious diet at home can be extremely challenging.

Fortunately, JustFoodForDogs offers a perfect solution with human-grade meals made from preservative-free, whole-food ingredients. These meals are gently cooked and highly digestible, providing optimal nutrient absorption for your beloved friend.

Note: If your dog needs to lose weight, this diet is a healthy option as it is high in protein but relatively low in calories.

What We Like:
• Fresh and minimally processed
• No preservatives or growth hormones
• Gluten-free

What We Don’t Like:
• Only suitable for adult dogs
• Needs to be thawed before serving

First Five Ingredients: Deboned salmon, salmon meal, brown rice, oatmeal, barley | Type: Dry kibble | Life Stage: Adult | Other Flavors: Chicken and brown rice, salmon and brown rice, turkey and brown rice

Merrick Limited Ingredient Diet is an excellent option for dog owners who want to avoid common food allergens. This dog food has fewer ingredients, making it easier to control what your dog is consuming. Additionally, it contains high levels of glucosamine and chondroitin, which promote joint health and make it an ideal choice for dogs with orthopedic issues like osteoarthritis.

The grains in this kibble provide fiber to dogs, which is essential for maintaining a healthy digestive system. Plus, a grain-inclusive diet may be a better choice over grain-free diets often associated with heart disease in dogs.

What We Like:
• Made with only nine key ingredients
• High levels of omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids to support healthy skin
• No soy, corn, wheat, dairy, eggs, or artificial colors

What We Don’t Like:
• Only comes in one bag size

First Five Ingredients: Turkey, oatmeal, barley, fish meal, canola meal | Type: Dry kibble | Life Stage: Adult (*puppy and senior options available) | Other Flavors: Lamb and oatmeal, salmon and rice

Purina Pro Plan Sensitive Skin and Stomach formula is designed to be gentle on dogs with sensitive skin and digestive tracts. The ingredients, like oatmeal, are highly digestible, so your dog can absorb the nutrients effectively. Sunflower oil provides omega-6 fatty acids, while fish oil provides omega-3 fatty acids, essential for your dog to maintain healthy skin and coat. 

Tip: There are separate formulations specifically labeled for different life stages so you can choose the most suitable option, whether you have a puppy, adult, or senior dog. 


What We Like:
• Meat is the first ingredient
• Contains prebiotics and probiotics for gut health
• No artificial flavors or colors

What We Don’t Like:
• Contains more than one protein source (more potential allergens)