The Best Dog Food for Sensitive Skin: Top Picks for 2024

Dogs are beloved members of our families, and as such, we want to provide them with the best possible care. One essential aspect of that care is ensuring that they receive a balanced and nutritious diet. However, some dogs suffer from sensitive skin, which can make finding the right food a challenge. The wrong food can cause allergies, itching, and other skin problems that can be uncomfortable for your furry friend.

The best dog food for sensitive skin is formulated to provide a balanced diet while minimizing the risk of allergic reactions and other skin issues. When choosing a dog food for sensitive skin, it’s essential to pay attention to the ingredients. Look for foods that contain high-quality proteins, such as chicken, fish, or lamb, and avoid foods that contain fillers or artificial preservatives.

Another critical factor to consider is the type of carbohydrates in the food. Dogs with sensitive skin may be more prone to digestive issues, so it’s important to choose foods that are easy to digest. Look for foods that contain whole grains like brown rice or oatmeal, as well as vegetables like sweet potatoes or carrots.

When choosing the best dog food for sensitive skin, it’s also important to consider your dog’s age, breed, and activity level. Puppies and older dogs have different nutritional needs than adult dogs, and certain breeds may be more prone to skin issues than others. Additionally, dogs with high activity levels may require more protein and calories than dogs who are less active.

At the end of the day, choosing the right dog food for sensitive skin can make a significant difference in your dog’s overall health and well-being. We’ve researched and tested ten of the top dog foods for sensitive skin to help you find the best option for your furry friend.

Top 3 Best Dog Foods for Sensitive Skin

1. Bundle x Joy Vibrant Salmon Superfood Dog Food

2. Solid Gold Nutrientboost Mighty Mini Small Breed Dog Food

3. ZIWI Peak Air-Dried Dog Food

As pet owners, we know how important it is to provide our furry friends with the best nutrition possible. However, dogs with sensitive skin can be particularly challenging to feed, as certain ingredients may cause skin irritation, itching, and other discomforts. That’s why we’ve researched and tested various dog foods to bring you the best options for dogs with sensitive skin. Below are our top picks that are not only gentle on the skin but also provide complete and balanced nutrition for your furry companion.

Bundle x Joy Vibrant Salmon Superfood Dog Food

Bundle x Joy Vibrant Salmon Superfood Dog Food

If you’re looking for a high-quality dog food that’s great for all adult breeds and sizes, Bundle x Joy Vibrant Salmon Superfood Dog Food is a great option. Made with real salmon as the first ingredient, this natural and healthy dog food includes 20 plant-based superfoods in every bag, including flaxseed, pumpkin, apples, carrots, and cranberries. Plus, it’s grain-free and poultry-free with no corn, wheat, soy, artificial colors, flavors, or preservatives.

Pros

  • Made with real salmon as the first ingredient for a natural and healthy dog food
  • Includes 20 plant-based superfoods in every bag, including flaxseed, pumpkin, apples, carrots, and cranberries
  • Great for all adult breeds and sizes with omega fatty acids to support healthy skin and a shiny coat and probiotics to support digestion

Cons

  • One of the pricier dry kibbles on the market
  • May not be suitable for dogs with specific dietary needs or restrictions
  • Some dogs may not enjoy the taste or texture of the kibble pieces

We’ve been using Bundle x Joy Vibrant Salmon Superfood Dog Food for several weeks now and have noticed a significant improvement in our dog’s coat and overall health. The kibble pieces are small enough for our small breed dog to enjoy, and the added probiotics have made a noticeable difference in his digestion. We also appreciate that Bundle x Joy is a 100% female-founded company committed to empowering women in all walks of life.

Overall, if you’re looking for a high-quality dog food that’s great for all adult breeds and sizes and includes natural, wholesome ingredients, Bundle x Joy Vibrant Salmon Superfood Dog Food is definitely worth considering.

Solid Gold Nutrientboost Mighty Mini Small Breed Dog Food

Solid Gold Nutrientboost Mighty Mini Small Breed Dog Food

We highly recommend the Solid Gold Nutrientboost Mighty Mini Small Breed Dog Food for pet owners looking for a high-quality and nutritious dog food that is easy on the stomach and teeth of their small dogs.

Pros

  • The nutrientboost formula supports gut, immune, and coat health for your small puppy, adult, or senior dog.
  • The grain and gluten-free kibble is designed for small mouths to help small canine pets chew with ease.
  • The probiotic support formula features 90 million probiotics per pound for digestive health, balanced gut flora, and immune support.

Cons

  • The price point may be higher than some other dog food brands.
  • The kibble may be too small for some larger small breed dogs.
  • The bag size may not be ideal for larger dogs or households with multiple dogs.

This dog food is powered by nutrientboost, a natural dog food dry protein source proven to support canine digestive health while also supporting nutrient absorption. Each bite of this grain-free dog food for small dogs provides nourishing protein, antioxidants, superfood with vitamins and minerals, and omega fatty acids to support skin, coat, and immune system health.

The Solid Gold Nutrientboost Mighty Mini Small Breed Dog Food is perfect for dogs with sensitive stomachs as it is easy on the teeth and stomach. This craveable small dog food features 90 million probiotics per pound for digestive health, balanced gut flora, and immune support.

In conclusion, the Solid Gold Nutrientboost Mighty Mini Small Breed Dog Food is a great choice for pet owners who want to provide their small dogs with a high-quality, nutritious, and easy-to-digest food.

ZIWI Peak Air-Dried Dog Food

ZIWI Peak Air-Dried Dog Food

If you’re looking for a high-quality dog food that’s perfect for dogs with sensitive skin, you might want to try ZIWI Peak Air-Dried Dog Food. This holistic pet food is made from only the best natural ingredients, including grass-fed lamb, ethically raised in the mild and temperate climate of beautiful New Zealand. It’s perfect for carnivores and is rich in meat and organs in authentic ratios, free from unnecessary carbohydrates.

Pros

  • Authentic whole-prey ratios, featuring 96% free-range Lamb, Organs, Bone, and New Zealand Green Mussels.
  • Limited Ingredient (L.I.D) premium dog food without added carbohydrates, ideal for food sensitive dogs.
  • Cold-washed Green Tripe, New Zealand Green Mussels, and Organic Kelp; holistic ingredients to support digestion, healthy skin and coat, joint health, reduce inflammation, and promote heart and brain health.

Cons

  • Relatively expensive compared to other dog foods.
  • Some variability in the shape, size, color, texture, and odor of the food due to the natural ingredients and handcrafted small batches.
  • It may take some time for your dog to adjust to the nutrient-dense food.

We’ve found that ZIWI Peak Air-Dried Dog Food is a great choice for dogs with sensitive skin. It’s nutrient-dense and made from high-quality ingredients that are ethically and sustainably sourced. The 10% superfood boost helps support your dog’s overall health, including digestion, skin, coat, and joint health.

In addition to being a complete meal, ZIWI Peak Air-Dried Dog Food is also great as a topper for a nutritional boost on your existing food. You can feed it to your dog at any life stage, from puppy to senior dogs, and it’s optimized for all dog breeds, including small and large dogs.

If you’re looking for a high-quality dog food that’s made from only the best natural ingredients and is perfect for dogs with sensitive skin, we highly recommend ZIWI Peak Air-Dried Dog Food.

Purina Pro Plan Sensitive Skin and Stomach Dog Food Salmon and Rice Formula – 30 lb. Bag

Purina Pro Plan Sensitive Skin and Stomach Dog Food Salmon and Rice Formula - 30 lb. Bag

If you’re looking for a dog food that is gentle on your furry friend’s stomach and skin, then the Purina Pro Plan Sensitive Skin and Stomach Dog Food Salmon and Rice Formula is worth considering.

Pros

  • Oatmeal is easily digestible and gentle on the digestive system.
  • High protein formula, with real salmon as the first ingredient.
  • Fortified with guaranteed live probiotics for digestive and immune health.

Cons

  • Some dogs might not like the taste of salmon.
  • The kibble size might be too small for larger breeds.
  • The price point might be higher than other dog food brands.

We’ve been using this dog food for a few months now, and we’ve noticed a significant improvement in our dog’s digestion and skin health. The oatmeal in the formula is gentle on his stomach, and the high protein content keeps him feeling full and satisfied.

One of the things we love about this dog food is that it’s fortified with guaranteed live probiotics, which helps keep our dog’s digestive system healthy. We’ve also noticed that his coat is shinier and healthier-looking since we switched to this dog food.

While some dogs might not like the taste of salmon, our dog seems to enjoy it. However, we’ve heard from other dog owners that their dogs didn’t like the taste, so it might be worth trying a smaller bag before committing to a larger size.

Overall, we would recommend the Purina Pro Plan Sensitive Skin and Stomach Dog Food Salmon and Rice Formula to any dog owner looking for a high-quality dog food that is gentle on their furry friend’s stomach and skin.

Hill’s Science Diet Wet Dog Food, Adult, Sensitive Stomach & Skin, Salmon & Vegetable Entrée, 12.8 Ounce (Pack of 12)

Hill's Science Diet Wet Dog Food, Adult, Sensitive Stomach & Skin, Salmon & Vegetable Entrée, 12.8 Ounce (Pack of 12)

If you are looking for a dog food that promotes healthy digestion and skin health, then Hill’s Science Diet Adult Sensitive Stomach & Skin Salmon & Vegetable Entrée is a great option.

Pros

Cons

  • Not recommended for puppies and pregnant or nursing dogs
  • Some dogs may not like the taste
  • May be more expensive than other dog food options

We have been using Hill’s Science Diet Adult Sensitive Stomach & Skin Salmon & Vegetable Entrée for our dog for a few months now and have noticed a significant improvement in his digestion and skin health. The wet food is easy for him to digest and the natural fibers help with stool pickup. We have also noticed that his coat looks healthier and shinier since switching to this dog food.

One thing to keep in mind is that this dog food is not recommended for puppies and pregnant or nursing dogs. Additionally, some dogs may not like the taste of the salmon and vegetable entrée. While this dog food may be more expensive than other options, we believe that the benefits to our dog’s health are worth the cost.

Overall, we highly recommend Hill’s Science Diet Adult Sensitive Stomach & Skin Salmon & Vegetable Entrée for any dog with digestive or skin issues. It is made with natural ingredients and has helped improve our dog’s overall health and well-being.

Hill’s Science Diet Dry Dog Food, Adult, Sensitive Stomach & Skin, Chicken Recipe, 30 lb. Bag Chicken & Barley 30 Pound (Pack of 1)

Hill's Science Diet Dry Dog Food, Adult, Sensitive Stomach & Skin, Chicken Recipe, 30 lb. Bag Chicken & Barley 30 Pound (Pack of 1)

If you’re looking for a dog food that promotes digestive health while nourishing skin, then Hill’s Science Diet Sensitive Stomach & Skin Adult Dog Food is the perfect choice.

Pros

Cons

  • Some dogs may not like the taste of this dog food.
  • It is a little bit expensive compared to other dog food brands.
  • The bag is a bit heavy and may be difficult to handle for some people.

We have been using Hill’s Science Diet Sensitive Stomach & Skin Adult Dog Food for our dog for a few months now, and we have seen a significant improvement in his digestive health. Our dog used to have frequent stomach upsets, but since we switched to this dog food, he has not had any issues. We also noticed that his coat has become shinier and healthier-looking.

This dog food is made with natural ingredients, and we feel confident that we are feeding our dog a high-quality product. The kibble is the perfect size for our dog, and he seems to enjoy the taste. The only downside is that it is a bit expensive compared to other dog food brands, but we believe that it is worth the extra cost for the benefits it provides.

Overall, we highly recommend Hill’s Science Diet Sensitive Stomach & Skin Adult Dog Food to anyone looking for a high-quality dog food that promotes digestive health and nourishes skin.

Halo Holistic Plant-Based Recipe With Superfoods, Complete Digestive Health, Vegan Dry Dog Food Bag, Adult Formula, 10-lb Bag

Halo Holistic Plant-Based Recipe With Superfoods

If you’re looking for a highly nutritious, sustainable dry dog food that is formulated to boost your dog’s health, then Halo Holistic Vegan Plant-Based Recipe with Superfoods could be an excellent option for you. As a digestive dog food, it includes prebiotics and probiotics for dogs, plus postbiotics to support every stage of digestion.

Pros

  • Made with high-quality ingredients for optimal nutrition and digestive support
  • 100% complete and balanced, plant-based dog food with added vitamins and minerals for adult dogs
  • No artificial flavors, preservatives or colors

Cons

  • A bit pricey compared to other dog foods
  • Some dogs may not like the taste
  • May cause an upset stomach in some dogs

We’ve been using this dog food for a few months now, and we’ve noticed a significant improvement in our dog’s skin and coat. The plant-based, super premium dog food is a holistic blend of high-quality ingredients, including vitamin and mineral-rich superfoods like blueberries, cranberries, carrots, and apples. Our dog loves the taste, and we love that it’s made only with non-GMO ingredients, and no corn, wheat, soy, or artificial preservatives.

The 10 lb. bag of Halo Holistic Plant-Based Recipe with Superfoods dry adult dog food is vegan dog food made with no animal ingredients. It’s 100% complete and balanced nutrition that your dog needs to look and feel their best. This vegetarian dog food is cooked in the USA with high-quality ingredients for optimal nutrition and digestive support.

Overall, we highly recommend this dog food for those looking for a plant-based option that supports healthy skin and coat for dogs. It’s a bit pricey compared to other dog foods, but we think it’s worth the investment for the high-quality ingredients and noticeable health benefits.

Merrick Limited Ingredient Diet Dry Dog Food Real Salmon & Brown Rice Recipe with Healthy Grains – 22.0 lb. Bag 22 Pound (Pack of 1)

Merrick Limited Ingredient Diet Dry Dog Food Real Salmon & Brown Rice Recipe with Healthy Grains best dog food for sensitive skin

If you’re looking for a dog food that’s specially formulated for dogs with food sensitivities or allergies, then Merrick Limited Ingredient Diet Dry Dog Food Real Salmon & Brown Rice Recipe with Healthy Grains is a great choice. We’ve been using this dog food for our furry friend for a while now and we’re happy with the results.

Pros

  • The limited ingredient dog food is specially formulated for dogs with food sensitivities or allergies.
  • The dry food for dogs features real deboned salmon as the first ingredient.
  • The natural dog food contains no chickpeas, lentils or peas.

Cons

  • It’s a bit expensive compared to other dog food brands.
  • Some dogs may not like the taste of the salmon and brown rice recipe.
  • The kibble size may be too small for larger dogs.

This dog food is made with just 9 key ingredients, making it easy to digest for dogs with sensitive stomachs. The first ingredient is real deboned salmon, which provides important amino acids, vitamins, and minerals for balanced nutrition. We appreciate that this limited ingredient dog food is made without soy, corn, wheat, dairy, eggs, or artificial colors, preservatives or flavors.

We’ve noticed that our dog’s coat is shinier and healthier since we’ve switched to this dog food. The added healthy grains in the formula also help support healthy digestion. However, this dog food is a bit expensive compared to other brands, but it’s worth the investment for the health of our furry friend.

Overall, if you’re looking for a limited ingredient dog food for your furry friend with food sensitivities or allergies, then Merrick Limited Ingredient Diet Dry Dog Food Real Salmon & Brown Rice Recipe with Healthy Grains is definitely worth considering.

Buying Guide

When it comes to choosing the best dog food for sensitive skin, there are a few things to keep in mind. Here are some features to consider before making a purchase:

Ingredients

The first thing to look for is high-quality ingredients. Avoid products that contain fillers, artificial preservatives, and by-products. Instead, look for whole foods like meat, fish, vegetables, and fruits. Also, consider the source of the ingredients. Organic and non-GMO options are often better for dogs with sensitive skin.

Protein Content

Protein is essential for your dog’s overall health, but it’s especially important for dogs with sensitive skin. Look for products with a high protein content, ideally from animal sources like chicken, beef, or fish. However, be careful not to choose a product that is too high in protein, as this can cause other health problems.

Grain-Free Options

Grain-free options are becoming more popular, and they can be a good choice for dogs with sensitive skin. Grains like wheat, corn, and soy can cause allergies and skin irritation in some dogs. However, not all grain-free options are created equal, so be sure to read the labels carefully.

Limited Ingredients

Some dog food brands offer limited ingredient options, which can be a good choice for dogs with sensitive skin. These products contain a smaller number of ingredients, making it easier to identify and avoid potential allergens.

Omega-3 Fatty Acids

Omega-3 fatty acids are essential for healthy skin and coat. Look for products that contain fish oil or other sources of omega-3s. This can help reduce inflammation and improve your dog’s skin health.

By keeping these features in mind, you can choose the best dog food for your furry friend with sensitive skin.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the best food to feed a dog with skin sensitivities?

When it comes to feeding dogs with skin sensitivities, it’s important to choose a high-quality dog food that is specifically formulated for sensitive skin. Look for dog foods that contain high-quality protein sources such as chicken, lamb, or fish, and avoid foods that contain fillers, artificial preservatives, and additives.

What are the ingredients to avoid in dog food for sensitive skin?

When shopping for dog food for sensitive skin, it’s important to avoid ingredients that can trigger skin allergies and irritations. Some common ingredients to avoid include wheat, corn, soy, and dairy products. Additionally, artificial preservatives, colors, and flavors can also be problematic for dogs with sensitive skin.

What are some homemade dog food recipes for dogs with skin allergies?

If you prefer to make your own dog food at home, there are many recipes that can be beneficial for dogs with skin allergies. Some popular ingredients for homemade dog food include lean proteins such as chicken, turkey, and fish, as well as vegetables like sweet potatoes, carrots, and green beans.

What is the best dog food for dogs with skin irritation?

The best dog food for dogs with skin irritation is one that is specifically formulated to address their specific skin issues. Look for dog foods that contain ingredients that are known to soothe and nourish the skin, such as omega-3 fatty acids, vitamin E, and zinc.

What are some recommended dry dog foods for dogs with sensitive skin?

There are many high-quality dry dog foods on the market that are formulated for dogs with sensitive skin. Some popular brands include Blue Buffalo, Hill’s Science Diet, and Royal Canin.

What senior dog food is recommended for dogs with sensitive skin?

As dogs age, their skin can become more sensitive, so it’s important to choose a senior dog food that is specifically formulated for sensitive skin. Look for dog foods that contain high-quality protein sources, as well as ingredients that are known to promote skin health, such as omega-3 fatty acids and antioxidants. Some popular senior dog food brands include Purina Pro Plan, Nutro, and Wellness.