what is hydrolyzed protein for dogs

What Is Hydrolyzed Protein Dog Food? Pros, Cons, & FAQ

The information is current and up-to-date in accordance with the latest veterinarian research.

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If your dog is allergic to proteins or struggles with inflammatory bowel disease, youve probably heard abouthydrolyzed protein dog food. Meat is one of the most commonallergens¹found in dog food which often leads to itchiness and upset stomachs. The bodies of allergic dogs mistake the proteins as a threat and attack them, resulting in an allergic reaction.

However, these ingredients also provide your dog with complete proteins that contain amino acids that help their bodies function, provide them with energy, and keep them healthyand are therefore a crucial part of their diet.

Hydrolyzed protein dog food is a great alternative food for dogs with certain health problems because its made with proteins that have undergone a process in which theyve been broken down into tiny molecules that are too small to be identified by the immune system and, therefore, no allergic reaction occurs.

How Does It Work?

As we mentioned above, hydrolyzed protein dog food doesnt contain the full-form protein that is found in most dog food but rather tiny molecules of protein that are too small to be identified by the body. Thanks to science, the necessary protein your dog needs in their food can be hydrolyzed, which typically involves water and hydrochloric acid or proteolytic enzymes to break the protein peptide bonds apart to form single amino acids.

These two processes affect the breakdown of protein in a similar way that a dogs digestive system would break protein down. The protein strands can be broken down into smaller strand sizes or completely isolated to individual amino acids. Its a complex process, but it is approved by the FDA.

This type of dog food is necessary for dogs that cant digest protein well, as the protein has already been broken down and their digestive system doesnt have to do much work.

Novel Protein, Limited Ingredient, or Hydrolyzed Protein Dog Food?

Dogs with protein allergies are often allergic to chicken, lamb, beef, and fish because these are most commonly found in dog food. Its unlikely for a dog to be triggered by these animal proteins at first, but after eating the same diet over time, they may develop symptoms such as itchiness, hair loss, infections, vomiting, and diarrhea. This reaction can sometimes be eliminated by changing their dog food to one that contains novel protein instead of the protein theyve always consumed.

Often, before starting on hydrolyzed protein dog food, dog owners will buy dog food with a novel protein, such as kangaroo, venison, alligator, ostrich, etc., but if their body still reacts poorly to these animal proteins, theyll need something more radical.

A limited ingredient recipe may be all your dog needs to overcome their symptoms as these recipes cut out common allergens found in dog foodbut it may not be enough for your dog, and they may need to be transitioned onto hydrolyzed protein dog food to eliminate the threat altogether.

Both limited-ingredient and novel protein dog food can be bought at pet stores or specialty retailer stores without a prescription, while hydrolyzed protein dog food can only be purchased with a prescription from your vet. You should discuss any illness and food changes with your vet beforehand.

What Types of Dogs Do Best on Hydrolyzed Protein Dog Food?

Dogs with health issues that make digesting protein difficult will do best on hydrolyzed protein dog food. These conditions may be inflammatory bowel disease, food allergies, or pancreatic disease. Dogs with food allergies should have mild to no reactions, and dogs with bowel problems should experience less bloating, vomiting, and diarrhea.

Types of Hydrolyzed Protein Dog Foods

There are many hydrolyzed protein dog food options across a variety of brands that work with nutritionists and food scientists to achieve their formulas. It is not necessary to feed your dog hydrolyzed protein if they havent been diagnosed with food allergies or digestive problems, as standard high-quality dog food is nutritionally balanced and complete and will give your dog everything they need.

You also dont need to feed your dog this type of food if their symptoms are mild or if they do well on novel proteins, limited ingredient diets, or any other diet that meets their nutritional needs. However, hydrolyzed protein diets are excellent for dogs who require italbeit more expensive and harder to get.

Royal Canin, Hills Science Diet, Purina, and several other brands cater to dogs with digestive issues. These recipes reduce reactions, such as skin itchiness, dull coat, and stomach upset due to the broken-down proteins. Most of them also include fibers and prebiotics to restore and maintain the gut with healthy bacteria.

Hydrolyzed protein dog food comes in two types: dry dog food and canned dog food.

A few excellent options of hydrolyzed protein dog foods are:

Advantages of Hydrolyzed Protein Dog Food

There are many advantages to hydrolyzed protein dog food. It can reduce the symptoms and discomfort your dog faces on a daily basis caused by food allergens, exocrine pancreatic insufficiency, and inflammatory bowel disease. Because hydrolyzed protein is already broken down, their bodies dont have to work as hard to digest it, and its so small that the immune system doesnt recognize it as a threat.

Its a safe option for allergic dogs, and it not only reduces signs but can restore once itchy, dry, and dull skin and coats back to a healthy and shiny condition.

Another advantage to this food is that its made under strict conditions to prevent unwanted ingredients from contaminating the specialized food. By avoiding cross-contamination, you can easily pinpoint what causes your dogs allergic reactions and get answers faster.

Disadvantages of Hydrolyzed Protein Dog Food

Of course, nothing is perfect, and hydrolyzed protein dog food comes with a few disadvantages. The first is the price. Because of the extensive process and strict quality control this type of food undergoes, it is very expensive and costs more than many premium dog foods on the market. How long your dog may need to stay on the food is unknown and may ultimately become a bigger expense than you anticipated.

Unfortunately, some dogs still experience flare-ups on this specialized food. What works for someone elses dog may not work as well for yours. Your dog may also refuse to eat it, and youll lose a lot of money and still have your dogs condition to worry about. Some manufacturers offer a money-back guarantee if your dog will not eat their food.

Hydrolyzed protein is bitter in taste, and dog foods often contain artificial flavors to make them more appealingbut artificial flavors can cause allergies in some dogs.

And lastly, you need a prescription to be able to purchase the most hydrolyzed protein dog food, which requires a trip to your vet, which is an extra financial and time investment.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

How Long Can My Dog Be on Hydrolyzed Protein Dog Food?

Your dog will be on the food for a minimum of 612 weeks until their symptoms subside. After this period, you can start to introduce one protein source to their food. If they have a reaction to it, you know theyre allergic to that type of protein. This process can take time, but its important to work with your vet and follow their treatment advice when your dog is on this specialized food. It is an elimination diet that identifies which types of ingredients your dog is allergic to and can rule out environmental factors as the symptoms often mimic each other.

Can I Make It At Home?

Hydrolyzed protein dog food is expensive and wondering whether you can make it yourself at home is a reasonable question. But the food is so expensive for a reason, and thats because it undergoes a special process and must be made in the lab by professionals, using the correct chemicals and equipment. Its also made under strict conditions to avoid cross-contamination. Therefore, it cannot be made at home.

What Can I Feed My Dog Instead of Hydrolyzed Protein Dog Food?

As weve mentioned above, alternatives to hydrolyzed protein dog food would be diets consisting of limited ingredients or using novel proteins instead of the common ones. However, these alternatives are not a direct replacement and arent always effective.

Some companies have started using insects as their protein source as its unlikely that dogs will be allergic to them. The black soldier fly and mealworms are most commonly used. Others believe that plant protein is the way to combat allergies in dogs, using tree nuts, edible seeds, and peanuts instead of meat. However, its important to chat with your vet before switching your dog onto uncommon formulas.

Wrapping Up

If your dog has digestive problems or food allergies, your vet may consider hydrolyzed protein dog food. This food contains proteins that have been broken down through the process of hydrolysis and are no longer seen as a threat to your dogs immune system. Youll need a prescription from your vet to purchase the food and will need to follow their feeding guidelines and treatment advice. Thankfully, there are various types of this food to choose from, and youre likely to see great improvements in your dog from it.

Featured Image Credit: Pixel-Shot, Shutterstock

Best Hydrolyzed Dog Foods: 7 Allergy-Friendly Eats

Ever wonder what dogs with multiple food allergies eat?

You know, doggos who have cycled through proteins like lamb, chicken, turkey, and more and still cant find a good fit?

The answer may be hydrolyzed dog foods.

Veterinarians formulate these specialized dog foods for dogs suffering from severe food allergies and bowel disorders.

Think a hydrolyzed food may be helpful for your pooch? Read on to learn everything about them and see a few or our favorites!

Best Overall Hydrolyzed Dog Food

Most Affordable Hydrolyzed Dog Food

Most Affordable Hydrolyzed Canned Dog Food

What Is a Hydrolyzed Dog Food?

Hydrolyzed sounds super high-tech, right? Well, thats because it kind of is.

Hydrolyzed dog foods are made differently from other dog foods. Hydrolyzed dog foods are made with proteins that have been broken down by water into tiny pieces. This helps reduce the chances of them triggering an immune response that leads to unpleasant itching, inflammation, gastric reactions, and more in dogs with food allergies.

This process is called hydrolysis, giving the food its name.

Hydrolyzed dog foods still provide balanced nutrition to dogs, but theyre altered to suit the specific needs of certain dogs.

Want more info? Check out our whole guide explaining the ins and outs of what hydrolyzed protein actually is.

Veterinary Authorization Typically Required

Hydrolyzed dog foods are carefully formulated for specific dogs medical needs and arent for every doggo. Youll need a prescription from your vet to purchase all but one of the recipes below from retailers, as theyre only intended for canines with severe allergies or bowel disease.

If your dog has only mild food allergies and youd like to try switching foods without needing a prescription, check out our guide to the best hypoallergenic dog foods.

The 7 Best Hydrolyzed Dog Foods

Now that we know more about hydrolyzed dog foods, we can dig into the best ones available. Check out todays all-star hydrolyzed dog foods with us.

1. Royal Canin Veterinary Diet Hydrolyzed Protein HP

Best Overall Hydrolyzed Dog Food

About: Royal Canin Veterinary Diet Hydrolyzed Protein HP is a high-quality kibble designed by animal nutritionists for dogs with food sensitivities to be easy to digest and less likely to trigger skin reactions. It can be fed on its own to adult dogs or paired with the matching canned option to entice pickier pups.

Features:

• Hydrolyzed soy is the main source of protein
• Blend of prebiotics and fiber promotes healthy digestion
• Contains the fatty acids EPA and DHA for skin, coat, brain, and eye health
• Made in the USA with ingredients from around the globe

Ingredients List

Brewers Rice, Hydrolyzed Soy Protein, Chicken Fat, Natural Flavors...,

Dried Plain Beet Pulp, Monocalcium Phosphate, Vegetable Oil, Sodium Silico Aluminate, Fish Oil, Calcium Carbonate, Fructooligosaccharides, Potassium Chloride, Salt, Dl-Methionine, L-Tyrosine, Taurine, Vitamins [Dl-Alpha Tocopherol Acetate (Source Of Vitamin E), Niacin Supplement, L-Ascorbyl-2-Polyphosphate (Source Of Vitamin C), D-Calcium Pantothenate, Biotin, Pyridoxine Hydrochloride (Vitamin B6), Riboflavin Supplement, Thiamine Mononitrate (Vitamin B1), Vitamin A Acetate, Folic Acid, Vitamin B12 Supplement], Choline Chloride, Trace Minerals [Zinc Proteinate, Zinc Oxide, Manganese Proteinate, Manganous Oxide, Copper Sulfate, Ferrous Sulfate, Sodium Selenite, Copper Proteinate, Calcium Iodate], Marigold Extract (Tagetes Erecta L.), Magnesium Oxide, Rosemary Extract, Preserved With Mixed Tocopherols And Citric Acid

Pros

• Premium choice for dogs with multiple food allergies or severe tummy troubles
• Kibble size suits pups big and small
• Most pet parents note an improvement in coat appearance and stools after switching to the food

Cons

• As with all hydrolyzed dog foods, this stuff is pricey
• Not every dog is a fan of the taste

2. Hills Prescription Diet z/d

Best Overall Hydrolyzed Dog Food Runner-Up

About: Hills Prescription Diet z/d is a vet-formulated kibble that aims to bypass food allergies by using hydrolyzed chicken liver as the primary protein. It also features the patented S+OXSHIELD to prevent the formation of bladder stones in canines.

Features:

• Made with a hydrolyzed protein and a single carbohydrate source
• Omega fatty acids nourish skin and coat condition
• Antioxidants give taxed immune systems a boost of support
• Made in the USA with internationally sourced ingredients

Ingredients List

Corn Starch, Hydrolyzed Chicken Liver, Powdered Cellulose, Soybean Oil...,

Calcium Carbonate, Dicalcium Phosphate, Lactic Acid, Potassium Chloride, Glyceryl Monostearate, Choline Chloride, Iodized Salt, vitamins (Vitamin E Supplement, L-Ascorbyl-2-Polyphosphate (source of Vitamin C), Niacin Supplement, Thiamine Mononitrate, Vitamin A Supplement, Calcium Pantothenate, Biotin, Vitamin B12 Supplement, Pyridoxine Hydrochloride, Riboflavin Supplement, Folic Acid, Vitamin D3 Supplement), DL-Methionine, minerals (Ferrous Sulfate, Zinc Oxide, Copper Sulfate, Manganous Oxide, Calcium Iodate, Sodium Selenite), Taurine, Mixed Tocopherols for freshness, Natural Flavors, Beta-Carotene.

Pros

• Most pet parents report an improvement in skin and digestive issues
• Taste earns higher marks than most hydrolyzed dog food options
• Ideal for pups prone to bladder stones

Cons

• Its a pretty pricey dog food
• Kibblet size too large for smaller breeds

3. Diamond Care Sensitive Skin Formula

Most Affordable Hydrolyzed Dog Food

About: Diamond Care Sensitive Skin Formula uses a limited-ingredient recipe with a single hydrolyzed protein source: salmon. Omega fatty acids give your dogs skin a helping hand, promoting a thicker, healthier coat and soothing itchiness.

Features:

• Animal nutritionist-formulated recipe
• Probiotics included to support healthy digestion
• Suitable for adult dogs of all sizes
• Made in the USA with globally sourced ingredients

Ingredients:

Ingredients List

Peas, Pea Flour, Hydrolyzed Salmon, Canola Oil (Preserved With Mixed Tocopherols)...,

Flaxseed, Natural Salmon Flavor, Tomato Pomace, Salmon Oil, Dicalcium Phosphate, Calcium Carbonate, Dl-Methionine, Choline Chloride, Taurine, Dried Lactobacillus plantarum Fermentation Product, Dried Bacillus subtilis Fermentation Product, Dried Lactobacillus acidophilus Fermentation Product, Dried Enterococcus faecium Fermentation Product, Dried Bifidobacterium animalis Fermentation Product, Vitamin E Supplement, Iron Proteinate, Zinc Proteinate, Copper Proteinate, Ferrous Sulfate, Zinc Sulfate, Manganese Sulfate, Copper Sulfate, Potassium Iodide, Thiamine Mononitrate, Manganese Proteinate, Ascorbic Acid, Vitamin A Supplement, Biotin, Niacin, Calcium Pantothenate, Sodium Selenite, Pyridoxine Hydrochloride, Vitamin B12 Supplement, Riboflavin, Vitamin D3 Supplement, Folic Acid

Pros

• About half the cost of other hydrolyzed dog foods
• Curiously, this one doesnt require a vet authorization (though its recommended to ask your vet before switching to a hydrolyzed protein food)
• Many pawrents praise the food for improving canine skin and coat appearance

4. Purina Pro Plan Veterinary Diets HA

Best Hydrolyzed Dog Food for Picky Eaters

About: Each recipe of Purina Pro Plans Veterinary Diets HA features a single source of hydrolyzed protein and a single carbohydrate source to reduce the chances of an immune reaction in canines while offering three proteins to choose from to suit your dogs tastes and needs. Formulated by a team of veterinarians and animal nutritionists, its a lightweight, crunchy kibble with a unique, light coloring and less odor than other foods.

Features:

• Made to be highly digestible, ensuring your pup absorbs nutrients
• Antioxidants offer immune support
• Available in chicken, salmon, and vegetarian protein options
• Made in the USA with global ingredients

Ingredients List

Corn Starch, Hydrolyzed Soy Protein Isolate...,

Partially Hydrogenated Canola Oil Preserved With Tbhq, Coconut Oil, Powdered Cellulose, Tricalcium Phosphate, Corn Oil, Dicalcium Phosphate, Hydrolyzed Chicken Liver, Hydrolyzed Chicken, Potassium Chloride, Guar Gum, Salt, Choline Chloride, Magnesium Oxide, Dl-Methionine, Taurine, Zinc Sulfate, Vitamin E Supplement, Ferrous Sulfate, Manganese Sulfate, Niacin (Vitamin B-3), Copper Sulfate, Vitamin A Supplement, Calcium Pantothenate (Vitamin B-5), Thiamine Mononitrate (Vitamin B-1), Riboflavin Supplement (Vitamin B-2), Vitamin B-12 Supplement, Garlic Oil, Pyridoxine Hydrochloride (Vitamin B-6), Folic Acid (Vitamin B-9), Vitamin D-3 Supplement, Calcium Iodate, Biotin (Vitamin B-7), Menadione Sodium Bisulfite Complex (Vitamin K), Sodium Selenite. B-2627

Pros

• Multiple protein options are ideal for pickier pups needing variety
• Most doggos seem to like the taste compared to other hydrolyzed dog foods
• Small, round kibblets are the perfect size for most pooches

Cons

• Some pet parents find the light kibble color strange
• Its a pricey kibble

5. Royal Canin Veterinary Diet Hydrolyzed Protein Small Dog

Best Hydrolyzed Dog Food for Small Breeds

About: Hydrolyzed soy is the primary protein source of Royal Canins Veterinary Diet Hydrolyzed Protein Small Dog, a kibble designed for smaller breeds with bite-sized, easier-to-chew food morsels. A balanced mix of B vitamins and amino acids promotes a healthy skin barrier, while a limited ingredient list avoids common allergy triggers.

Features:

• Formulated by veterinarians and animal nutritionists
• Suits dogs prone to developing bladder stones
• Single carbohydrate source to reduce triggering food sensitivities
• Made in the USA with international ingredients

Ingredients List

Brewers Rice, Hydrolyzed Soy Protein, Chicken Fat, Natural Flavors...,

Vegetable Oil, Dried Plain Beet Pulp, Sodium Silico Aluminate, Calcium Sulfate, Salt, Fish Oil, Monocalcium Phosphate, Fructooligosaccharides, Potassium Chloride, Calcium Carbonate, Sodium Tripolyphosphate, Dl-Methionine, Taurine, Vitamins [Dl-Alpha Tocopherol Acetate (Source Of Vitamin E), Niacin Supplement, L-Ascorbyl-2-Polyphosphate (Source Of Vitamin C), D-Calcium Pantothenate, Biotin, Pyridoxine Hydrochloride (Vitamin B6), Riboflavin Supplement, Thiamine Mononitrate (Vitamin B1), Vitamin A Acetate, Vitamin B12 Supplement, Folic Acid], Choline Chloride, Trace Minerals [Zinc Proteinate, Zinc Oxide, Manganese Proteinate, Manganous Oxide, Copper Sulfate, Ferrous Sulfate, Sodium Selenite, Copper Proteinate, Calcium Iodate], Gla Safflower Oil, Marigold Extract (Tagetes Erecta L.), Magnesium Oxide, Rosemary Extract, Preserved With Mixed Tocopherols And Citric Acid

Pros

• Kibble size engineered specifically for small breeds with food sensitivities who may struggle to chew larger morsels
• Many owners note an improvement in canine stools and skin condition
• Flavor is a win with most woofers

Cons

• Like most other hydrolyzed dog foods, its expensive
• Small bag sizes can be a drag

6. Royal Canin Veterinary Diet Hydrolyzed Protein

Best Hydrolyzed Canned Dog Food

About: Give your floof the wet food goodness he loves with Royal Canin Veterinary Diet Hydrolyzed Protein, a loaf-form canned option containing hydrolyzed chicken liver and soy protein. Included EPA and DHA fatty acids promote skin, coat, eye, and brain health, while fiber and prebiotics aid digestion.

Features:

• Designed by animal nutrition experts to be easily digestible by sensitive systems
• Antioxidants boost canine immune health, an area of concern in pups with food sensitivities
• Can be served on its own or mixed into the matching dry recipe
• Made in the USA with ingredients from around the globe

Ingredients:

Ingredients List

Water Sufficient For Processing, Pea Starch, Hydrolyzed Chicken Liver...,

Hydrolyzed Soy Protein, Vegetable Oil, Powdered Cellulose, Natural Flavors, Lecithin, Sodium Carboxymethylcellulose, Fish Oil, Sodium Tripolyphosphate, Calcium Carbonate, Sodium Silico Aluminate, Potassium Chloride, Calcium Sulfate, Carrageenan, Taurine, Vitamins [Dl-Alpha Tocopherol Acetate (Source Of Vitamin E), L-Ascorbyl-2-Polyphosphate (Source Of Vitamin C), Niacin Supplement, D-Calcium Pantothenate, Biotin, Pyridoxine Hydrochloride (Vitamin B6), Riboflavin Supplement, Thiamine Mononitrate (Vitamin B1), Vitamin A Acetate, Vitamin B12 Supplement, Folic Acid, Vitamin D3 Supplement], Choline Chloride, Monocalcium Phosphate, Sodium Carbonate, Trace Minerals [Zinc Proteinate, Manganese Proteinate, Zinc Oxide, Ferrous Sulfate, Copper Sulfate, Manganous Oxide, Sodium Selenite, Copper Proteinate, Calcium Iodate], Magnesium Oxide, Marigold Extract (Tagetes Erecta L.)

Pros

• A safe canned option for dogs with severe food or digestive sensitivities
• Most pups are fans of the flavor
• Ideal for giving dogs with food sensitivities a friendly, enriching option for a Lickimat, stuffable Kong toy, and more

Cons

• Pricing is high
• Loaf texture can be hard to mix into kibble

7. Hills Prescription Diet z/d

Most Affordable Hydrolyzed Canned Dog Food

About: Save your doggy dollars for funner things with Hills Prescription Diet z/d, a more budget-friendly canned option featuring a hydrolyzed protein. Its recipe is formulated by animal nutritionists and vets for balance and ease of digestion, making it a solid choice for pups with pesky food sensitivities.

Features:

• Hydrolyzed chicken liver is the primary source of protein
• Made with a single carbohydrate source
• Features fatty acids to nourish your pups skin and coat
• Made in the USA with global ingredients

Ingredients:

Ingredients List

Water, Hydrolyzed Chicken Liver, Corn Starch, Powdered Cellulose...,

Soybean Oil, Dicalcium Phosphate, Calcium Carbonate, Potassium Chloride, Iodized Salt, Choline Chloride, DL-Methionine, vitamins (Vitamin E Supplement, Ascorbic Acid (source of Vitamin C), Thiamine Mononitrate, Niacin Supplement, Calcium Pantothenate, Vitamin B12 Supplement, Pyridoxine Hydrochloride, Biotin, Vitamin D3 Supplement, Riboflavin Supplement, Folic Acid), Potassium Citrate, minerals (Zinc Oxide, Ferrous Sulfate, Manganese Sulfate, Copper Sulfate, Calcium Iodate), Magnesium Oxide, L-Tryptophan, Taurine, Beta-Carotene

Pros

• While pricey, its more affordable than other hydrolyzed can options
• Most pups give the taste a paws up
• Several owners report an improvement in coat appearance and digestives woes

Cons

• Some dogs dislike the foods texture
• A pull-tab can would be more convenient

Dont Forget About Treats

Dont trigger your dogs food allergies with the wrong treats. Some hypoallergenic dog treats may work, but your best bet is to opt for dog treats using hydrolyzed proteins, like Hills Prescription Diet Hypo Treats.

Another option is to use your dogs hydrolyzed kibble or chunks of a hydrolyzed canned loaf as rewards during training.

Which Dogs Need Hydrolyzed Dog Foods?

As we mentioned, while great for some sniffers, hydrolyzed dog foods arent for every four-footer.

Theyre typically vet-prescribed for a reason, so you cant (and shouldnt) switch your dog to them for run-of-the-mill food intolerance.

The primary reasons canines need hydrolyzed dog foods are:

• Food allergies: Pups with multiple food allergies may need to turn to hydrolyzed dog food after exhausting other options, like fish, venison, lamb, and even exotic proteins like kangaroo. These allergies are difficult enough to control that you must go beyond sticking to a chicken-free dog food or off-the-shelf limited-ingredient dog food.
• Irritable bowel disease: This chronic irritation causes ongoing issues with diarrhea, vomiting, pain, and malabsorption. The condition usually affects older dogs but can strike any breed at any age. Hydrolyzed dog food is easier to digest, potentially preventing gastric upset in these pups.

Many canine products are marketed as being hypoallergenic dog foods, but this isnt always the case. Like humans, every dog is unique and can experience a reaction to any ingredient. If you suspect a hydrolyzed dog food is necessary for your pup after trying multiple foods, consult your vet for the best course of action, as the problem may not even be food-based at all.

Its important to note that not every skin problem means your dog has allergies. Your dog can have a skin infection, mange, flea allergy, or a million and one other problems, which is why seeing your vet for a proper diagnosis is a must. The fix can be as simple as a food for dogs with sensitive skin, a far more cost-friendly option than hydrolyzed dog food.

How to Pick the Best Hydrolyzed Protein Dog Food

Picking the best hydrolyzed dog food for your four-footer is similar to selecting the healthiest food for any dog. But because of the medical issues involved, the food-selection process has a few differences, most notably that your vet makes the decision with you in nearly every case.

When considering a hydrolyzed dog food:

• The decision is made with your vet. Since almost all hydrolyzed dog foods are prescription-based, deciding on the best hydrolyzed food for your dog means meeting with your vet and discussing which prescription option would work best for your pooch. This is where things like taste or texture are discussed if youre concerned about your dogs picky palate or the kibble size if your pup is petite.
• The food addresses any specific health conditions your dog has. This ties into point one, as you and your vet need to ensure the food is best-suited for your dogs needs. That may mean a low-protein dog food for a dog with kidney issues or a low-carb, high-fiber diabetic dog food.
• The food meets AAFCO standards for your dogs life stage. You and your vet will make sure the product is suitable for your sniffers nutrient needs at his life stage. Most hydrolyzed dog foods meet the needs for adult dog maintenance, but some also work for puppies too.

Other factors like a foods country of origin and formula creation are also important, but for veterinary diets like the specific hydrolyzed dog foods we discussed, these are typically a non-issue, as theyre made in the USA, designed by experts like vets and animal nutritionists.

Still, if you have any lingering concerns, ask your vet. Theres no harm in asking questions.

How Are Food Allergies Diagnosed?

Diagnosing a canine food allergy takes time, but its well-worth the effort if your pooch has ongoing issues. It should always be done under your vets guidance, as you want to be sure the problem isnt something else like an illness or skin infection.

The most common approach involves an elimination trial or elimination diet, in which your dog eats a super bland diet (usually of so-called hypoallergenic foods) for a number of weeks. Once your dogs symptoms of allergies subside, youll begin slowly reintroducing ingredients commonly found in his old food to identify the problem one(s).

In some cases, your vet may opt to do a blood test to detect allergen-specific IgE antibodies, but these are hit-or-miss. Some vets find them worthwhile, while others find elimination diets more effective.

Food Allergies vs Food Intolerances

Food allergies are often confused with food intolerances in dogs, which can lead to you switching to a mega-expensive food that isnt really necessary.

But both types of problems manifest in different ways, which can aid in distinguishing between the two.

Signs of food allergies in dogs include:

• Itchy, irritated skin (Especially around paws, ears, rump, and inner thighs)
• Red, inflamed ears (Often worsening to chronic ear infections)
• Watery eyes
• Coughing
• Hair loss
• Sneezing
• Vomiting
• Diarrhea

The biggest takeaway is the skin component, as an allergy triggers an immune response that goes beyond digestive upset. This isnt seen in food intolerances, which typically involve gassiness or diarrhea.

Fortunately, most canines with a protein allergy can eat a single-protein dog food without issue, and never need a hydrolyzed option.

With food intolerances, one or more ingredients simply dont sit well in your dogs tummy and cause gas and diarrhea. This is similar to the lactose found in milk or cheese upsets a lactose intolerant persons stomach but wont trigger head-to-toe hives.

Another common cause of an upset stomach in dogs is switching your dogs food to a new one too fast.

What Are Some Common Dog Food Allergy Triggers

Any protein in dog food can trigger an allergic reaction, but some are more commonly problematic than others.

Grain (technically, the proteins in grains) is often labeled a canine allergy trigger and a reason many owners switch to grain-free dog food. But grains are rarely behind allergic reactions the vast majority of dogs can digest grains without issue.

The most common dog food allergens include:

• Beef
• Chicken
• Eggs
• Dairy
• Soy

Are Dog Food Allergies Common in Some Breeds?

Although all dogs are individuals, and any four-footer can suffer from allergies, some breeds appear more prone to allergies than others.

A few of the most common food-allergy sufferers include:

• Pit bulls
• Bull dogs
• Boxers
• Golden retrievers
• Labrador retrievers
• Lhasa apsos
• Shih tzus
• Scottish terriers
• West highland white terriers

If you suspect a food allergy in your floof, make a vet appointment to rule out other potential causes, such as parasites, environmental allergies, or skin diseases.

Does your doggo dine on hydrolyzed dog food? Is it any of the ones weve listed above or another awesome choice? Tell us in the comments. Wed love to hear!