Does Your Dog Need Hypoallergenic Food?

What are hypoallergenic foods? How can you tell if your pooch needs to switch to hypoallergenic dog food? We're answering your most frequently asked questions in this blog post.

What is hypoallergenic dog food?

Hypoallergenic dog food is specially formulated to minimise allergic reactions. Unlike standard dog foods, it typically avoids common allergens such as beef, dairy, chicken, wheat, soy and corn. Instead, it uses alternative protein sources like duck, lamb or fish and carbohydrate sources such as sweet potatoes or peas.

Some hypoallergenic foods (like Impact+ Hypoallergenic Dog Food) even use Hydrolysed proteins. These proteins are broken down into tiny pieces (Peptides), making it less likely for your dog’s immune system to react.

Want to learn more? Check out our blog post about hydrolysed dog food.

Is hypoallergenic food necessary?

Your dog might need hypoallergenic food if they’re dealing with food allergies. A vet may  suggest an elimination diet, which involves feeding your dog a limited-ingredient or hypoallergenic food exclusively for 8-12 weeks. During this time, you’ll monitor your dog’s symptoms. If the symptoms improve and return when the original diet is reintroduced, a food allergy is likely.

Food allergies or intolerances are common for dogs and cats. Lower-quality foods with artificial additives or known allergens can cause problems. Here are some signs your dog might need a change in diet:

• Itchy skin: Especially around the ears, paws or stomach.
• Chronic ear infections: Persistent issues that don’t respond well to treatment.
• Gastrointestinal problems: Vomiting, diarrhea or excessive gas.
• Hair loss or dull coat: Noticeable changes in their coat’s health.

Why choose MyPetSays hypoallergenic dog food?

Our hypoallergenic recipes are crafted to avoid common allergens, following Pet Food Manufacturers Association (PFMA) guidelines. These recipes are gentle on sensitive tummies, reducing symptoms of food intolerance while providing all the nutrients your dog needs.

Our Impact+ hypoallergenic recipes go the extra mile with Peptides and Collagen to support digestion and target specific health needs. These come in three unique options for adult dogs:

 

Our hypoallergenic dog food bestsellers

Check more hypoallergenic recipes →

Making the switch to MyPetSays hypoallergenic food can make a world of difference for your dog:

• Healthier skin and coat: Less itching and a shinier, healthier coat.
• Better digestion: Reduced stomach upset and firmer stools.
• Improved quality of life: Your dog will feel happier and more energetic.

How to switch to hypoallergenic dog food?

Switching foods too quickly can upset your dog’s tummy, so it’s best to do it gradually over 2–3 weeks. Start by mixing a small amount of the new food with their old food and slowly increase the new food while reducing the old. This gives their digestive system time to adjust.

Can any dog eat hypoallergenic food? 

Of course! Many owners choose hypoallergenic food even if their dog doesn’t have allergies because it’s made with reliable, highly digestible ingredients. Hypoallergenic foods are really about reducing the risk of adverse reactions to particular ingredients or components of those ingredients. By consuming hypoallergenic dog food, your pooch has a reduced risk of food related illness.