This post contains affiliate links. See our Affiliate Disclosure Statement page for more details.
Table of Contents
Does Fresh Dog Food Help With Allergies?
The prevalence of food allergies in dogs is relatively low with about 1% of dogs experiencing allergic responses to food, according to published data.
However, dogs experiencing food allergies can have a devastating effect on the dog and the owner’s quality of life. The dog may experience skin disorders leading to itching, scratching, biting, and licking.
In addition, the pet owner may have to provide special food to help their dog from experiencing these symptoms.
So, does fresh dog food help with allergies? This article looks at 3 exclusive benefits of fresh food and delves into the research to provide information to help your pet who may be experiencing allergies.
Does Fresh Dog Food Help With Allergies – 3 Benefits
- Elimination of potential allergens
- One of the key advantages of a fresh dog food diet is that it allows pet owners to have control over the ingredients.
- This means they can exclude common allergens such as wheat, corn, soy, and artificial additives, which are commonly found in commercial dog foods.
- By eliminating these potential triggers, it’s possible to reduce the risk of allergic reactions in dogs.
- Improved gut health
- Fresh dog food often includes a variety of whole foods, including lean meats, fruits, vegetables, and some grains or legumes.
- This diverse range of ingredients can contribute to a healthier gut microbiome in dogs.
- A balanced and healthy gut microbiome plays a crucial role in regulating the immune system and can help reduce the incidence of allergies and inflammatory responses.
- Reduced exposure to additives
- Commercial dog foods often contain additives such as preservatives, artificial flavors, and colors, which may contribute to allergic reactions in some dogs.
- Purchasing fresh dog food allows pet owners to avoid these additives and provide a more natural diet for their dogs.
To learn more about allergies in dogs, read the following articles to get attentional information.
5 Dog Food Skin Allergies: Best Treatments
7 Most Common Boxer Dog Allergies – Helping Your Boxer With Symptoms
6 Top Foods That Lead To Food Allergies In Your Boxer Dog
Does Fresh Dog Food Help With Allergies – What Are Food Allergies?
Food allergies can be divided into 3 distinct categories; Immunologic, Non-Immunologic, and Toxic based on the source of the alleged and the body’s response.
. Please refer to the table below for the types of food allergies along with an example of each type.
Table Types of Food Allergies and Examples
| Type of Food Allergy | Example of What Causes the Allergy |
|---|---|
| Immunologic | Peanut allergy |
| Non-immunologic | Lactose intolerance |
| Toxic | Shellfish poisoning due to toxins like saxitoxin |
Please note that this table provides simplified examples, and food allergies can vary in severity and specific causes. It’s always important to consult a veterinarian for accurate information and diagnosis related to food allergies.
In the journal article Food Allergy: Diagnostic & Therapeutic Food Options, Todays Veterinary Practice: November/December 2011 they note that food allergy in dogs is relatively uncommon.
“Food allergy is uncommon affecting 1% of all dogs.” – Todays Veterinary Practice
“0nly 5% to 15% of dogs with skin and ear disorders are likely to be food allergic” – Todays Veterinary Practice
Most Common Allergens
Numerous studies have been conducted on what ingredients cause food allergies in dogs.
Based on data collected from 15 experimental studies from different continents, cited in Food Allergies, A Canine Review, and a veterinary article, Food Allergies in Dogs indicates the top 6 foods causing food allergies in dogs are
- Beef
- Dairy Products
- Wheat
- Lamb
- Chicken Egg
- Soy
The data from these studies showed beef, dairy products, and wheat accounted for 69% of reported cases of adverse food reactions.
Lamb, chicken egg, and soy accounted for 25% of adverse reactions in these studies.
Source: Food Allergies a Canine Review
For allergy-related products for your pet, we use and recommend PetCareRx. They have a great selection of products, with fast delivery and great customer service.
Enjoy 25% OFF Sitewide at PetCareRx.com! Use Code: CARE25
Clinical Signs of Food Allergies
Most dogs experiencing a food allergy will present with a condition known as pruritus.
According to the Merck Veterinary Manual, pruritus can be defined as:
“Pruritus is defined as an unpleasant sensation within the skin that provokes the desire to scratch. Itching is a sign, not a diagnosis or specific disease.” Itching (Pruritus) in Dogs, Merck Veterinary Manual
In the article Food Allergy: Diagnostic & Therapeutic Food Options, Todays Veterinary Practice: November/December 2011 they state:
“Approximately 30% to 50% of animals with cutaneous (skin) signs of food allergy also have signs of vomiting, diarrhea, increased frequency of defecation and abdominal pain”.
Does Fresh Dog Food Help With Allergies – Specialized Diets
Does fresh dog food help with allergies? Several specialized diets have shown positive results in dogs with food allergies.
- Novel protein
- Usually, unique meat not typically found in commercial dog food.
- Examples include, Duck, Pork, Bison, Rabbit, Fish, Venison
- Hydrolyzed Diets
- According to the article “What is Hydrolyzed Protein Dog Food?” Pet Md, Jennifer Coates, DVM, January 6, 2023,
- “Hydrolyzed protein dog food is a food in which the proteins are chemically broken down into tiny pieces through a water-based process called hydrolysis. This essentially makes proteins “invisible” to a dog’s immune system.”
- The Pet MD article cites these products as being beneficial hydrolyzed diet dog foods.
- Hill’s Prescription Diet z/d Skin/Food Sensitivities Small Bites Original Flavor Dry Dog Food, 7-lb bag,
- Hill’s Prescription Diet z/d Skin/Food Sensitivities Original Flavor Dry Dog Food 25lb bag
- Royal Canin Veterinary Diet Adult Hydrolyzed Protein PS Dry Dog Food
- Royal Canin Veterinary Diet Adult Hydrolyzed Protein Loaf Canned Dog Food
Does Fresh Dog Food Help With Allergies – 3 Benefits
Now that we understand what food allergies are, the clinical signs, and the type of diets that are effective in treating them, let’s look at the 3 benefits that fresh dog food has in helping with allergies.
Does Fresh Food Help With Allergies – Elimination of potential allergens
Does fresh dog food help with allergies? Yes, because fresh dog foods help to eliminate potential allergens from their food.
Fresh dog foods can help eliminate potential allergens by providing a transparent and controlled diet.
These diets often consist of fresh, whole ingredients that are minimally processed, which reduces the chances of introducing common allergens.
Fresh dog foods are typically free from artificial additives, preservatives, and fillers that can trigger allergic reactions in dogs.
Additionally, many commercial fresh dog food brands offer limited ingredient options, allowing pet owners to easily identify and avoid specific allergens.
For example, if a dog has a known allergy to chicken, the owner can choose a fresh dog food recipe that excludes chicken and opt for alternative protein sources like beef or fish.
Below is a table illustrating the benefits of fresh dog foods in eliminating potential allergens:
| Benefits of Fresh Dog Foods in Eliminating Potential Allergens |
| 1. Transparent Ingredients: Fresh dog foods provide a clear list of ingredients used, making it easier to identify potential allergens. |
| 2. Minimal Processing: The minimal processing of fresh dog foods helps retain the integrity of ingredients and reduces the likelihood of allergen contamination. |
| 3. Free from Artificial Additives: Fresh dog foods are often free from artificial additives, preservatives, and fillers that can trigger allergic reactions. |
| 4. Limited Ingredient Options: Many fresh dog food brands offer limited ingredient recipes, allowing pet owners to avoid specific allergens and tailor the diet to their dog’s needs. |
| 5. Alternative Protein Sources: Fresh dog food recipes often provide a variety of protein sources, enabling owners to choose alternatives if their dog has allergies to common proteins like chicken or beef. |
For fresh dog food that is minimally processed and uses high-quality ingredients try Ollie’s Fresh Turkey with Fresh Blueberries which contains blueberries, kale, carrots, and pumpkin as natural ingredients.
For Alternative protein sources try:
Just Food For Dogs Joint & Skin Support fresh dog food. The recipe contains pork, Quinoa, kale, carrots, and fuji apples as natural ingredients.
NomNom Turkey Fare Fresh dog food with Turkey, brown rice, eggs, carrots, and spinach as natural ingredients.
Take 50% Off Plus Receive Free Shipping On Your First Order of Nom NomDoes Fresh Dog Food Help with Allergies – Improved Gut Health
Does fresh dog food help with allergies? Yes, by incorporating probiotics, prebiotics, and fiber to help improve gut health. Since 70% of our immune benefits come from the GI tract, it is essential to have a healthy GI tract.
Fresh dog food can play a significant role in improving gut health in dogs.
Compared to commercially processed kibble, fresh dog food is often made from high-quality, whole-food ingredients that are minimally processed and retain their natural nutritional value.
This can have a positive impact on a dog’s gut health in several ways.
First, fresh dog food is typically free from artificial additives, preservatives, and fillers that can be difficult for dogs to digest and may lead to gastrointestinal issues.
By eliminating these potentially problematic ingredients, fresh dog food reduces the strain on the digestive system and allows for easier absorption of nutrients.
Furthermore, fresh dog food often includes ingredients that are specifically chosen to support gut health. These ingredients can include:
- Probiotics
- Probiotics are beneficial bacteria that help maintain a healthy balance of gut flora.
- They can aid digestion, improve nutrient absorption, and enhance the overall function of the digestive system.
- Prebiotics
- Prebiotics are dietary fibers that serve as food for the beneficial bacteria in the gut.
- They promote the growth of these beneficial bacteria, which in turn supports a healthy gut environment.
- Fiber-rich fruits and vegetables
- Fresh dog food often incorporates fiber-rich ingredients such as sweet potatoes, pumpkin, and leafy greens.
- These fiber sources can help regulate bowel movements, prevent constipation, and support a healthy gut transit time.
- Digestive enzymes
- Some fresh dog foods contain added digestive enzymes, such as papain and bromelain, which can aid in the breakdown of proteins and improve digestion.
- Omega-3 fatty acids
- Fresh dog food often includes ingredients like fish oil or flaxseed to provide omega-3 fatty acids.
- These fatty acids have anti-inflammatory properties and can help alleviate gastrointestinal inflammation.
The benefits of these gut-supporting ingredients are varied and synergistic. They can
- Improve digestion
- Reduce the risk of sensitivities or allergies
- enhance nutrient absorption
- contribute to overall gut health in dogs
Here is a table summarizing some common ingredients used in fresh dog food to support gut health and their benefits:
| Ingredient | Benefits |
|---|---|
| Probiotics | Support beneficial gut bacteria |
| Prebiotics | Promote growth of healthy gut flora |
| Fiber-rich fruits | Aid in bowel movement regulation |
| and vegetables | |
| Digestive enzymes | Enhance protein breakdown and digestion |
| Omega-3 fatty | Reduce gastrointestinal inflammation and support |
| acids | overall gut health |
NomNom Probiotic Support GI Trageted for Dogs to help provide “good bacteria” into your dogs diet to help promote good gut health. It is recommended that you contact your veterinary to ensure that this is appropriate for your individual dogs health and diet.
By incorporating these gut-supporting ingredients into fresh dog food, pet owners can help improve their dog’s digestive health and overall well-being.
However, it’s important to consult with a veterinarian to ensure that the specific dietary needs of the dog are met.
For more information on probiotics, fiber, and fruits and vegetables, read our articles
5 Proven Benefits of Probiotic Dog Food – Happy Active Boxer
5 Proven Benefits Of Fiber – Happy, Healthy Boxer Dog
5 Best Calcium-Rich Vegetables To Support Strong Bones and Muscle in Boxer Dogs
Does Fresh Food Help With Allergies? Reduced Exposure to Additives
Does Fresh Dog food help with Allergies? Yes, Fresh food tries to reduce your pets exposure to additives by reducing them in the food products.
Fresh dog food can be beneficial for dogs with allergies as it reduces their exposure to additives commonly found in commercially processed dog food.
Many commercial dog foods contain artificial additives such as artificial colors, flavors, and preservatives, which can trigger allergic reactions in some dogs.
By switching to fresh dog food, pet owners can eliminate or significantly reduce the intake of these additives, leading to a decrease in allergic reactions.
Fresh dog food is often made from whole-food ingredients that are minimally processed and do not contain artificial additives.
This can help alleviate allergy symptoms and improve the overall well-being of allergic dogs.
However, it’s important to note that dogs with severe allergies should be evaluated by a veterinarian to identify specific allergens and ensure a well-balanced diet.
Here is a table summarizing some commonly used additives in commercial dog food and their uses:
| Additive | Uses |
| Artificial colors | Enhance the visual appeal of the food |
| Preservatives | Extend the shelf life of the food |
| Texturizers | Improve texture and palatability |
| Emulsifiers | Prevent separation of ingredients |
| Stabilizers | Maintain consistency and prevent spoilage |
| Antioxidants | Prevent the oxidation of fats and proteins |
| Sweeteners | Add sweetness to the food |
| Fillers | Increase the volume of the food |
Just Food For Dog’s Variety Sample Variety Box is a preservative-free option for feeding your pet and is designed for picky eaters
By avoiding or minimizing these additives found in commercial dog food, fresh dog food can help reduce the risk of allergic reactions and promote better overall health for dogs with allergies.
While these factors suggest that fresh dog food might be beneficial for allergies, it’s important to consult with a veterinarian before making any significant changes to your dog’s diet.
It’s worth noting that scientific research on the effects of fresh dog food specifically on allergies is limited. The majority of studies focus on general benefits and risks of raw or homemade diets. Therefore, it is advisable to consult reputable sources and discuss the matter with your veterinarian to make an informed decision about your dog’s diet.
Does Fresh Dog Food Help With Allergies – Summary
Does fresh dog food help with allergies? The answer is yes, fresh food can be beneficial to helping your dog with allergies because it provides 3 benefits vs commercial dog food.
- Elimination of Potential Allegens
- Improved Gut Health
- Reduced Exposure to Additives
While there is limited clinical work evaluating fresh foods impact on allergies, the benefits listed above makes it a good option for pet owners whose dogs have sensitive stomach and are experiencing allergies.
It is important that you consult with your veterinarian to have them evaluate the severity of the allergy and propose a proper course of treatment including the type of diet that should be fed to your dog based on their specific health needs.
Discoverboxerdogs.com are Mary and Chris Kustanbauter. We reside in Red Lion, PA with our two Boxers, Duke and Katie, who are both rescue dogs. We have been working with Adopt A Boxer Rescue for the past 17 years and have adopted 5 Boxers from this fine organization. To learn more visit our Home, Boxer Dog Family, and Blogs Pages Visit us on social media on Facebook – Discoverboxerdogs.com, Instagram, and Pinterest