15 Best Foods for Maltese with Allergies

Dealing with your Maltese’s food allergies can be beyond frustrating! We asked our 800,000 members of Maltese community on facebook the following question: “Those of you with Maltese’ who have allergies…. what food do you use and why?” We received hundreds of replies, and summarized the top 20 responses here.

As always, be sure to consult your veterinarian before making any health changes to your Maltese’ diet. iHeartDogs is reader supported, so some of the links below may be affiliate links where we receive a small commission at no additional cost to you.

15 Best Dog Foods for Maltese with Allergies

Mostly rice and vegetables. Some beef or lamb. No chicken here. Egg for breakfast. With rice and green beans.

Author: Tammara M.

Likes: 2

Mine is allergic to anything with feathers and 27 different kinds of grass and trees. All of them either in my yard or in the woods next door to my home.

Author: Tam M.

Likes: 2

Blue Buffalo lamb and rice. No chicken, duck or turkey. These little ones are frequently allergic to anything with feathers.

Author: Kristy W.

Likes: 2

Raw meat with green beans, carrots, boiled eggs and shells, peas and pumpkin. Also give a multi vit.

Author: Diane Hoekstra D.

Likes: 2

Not a food recommendation, but I would HIGHLY recommend this allergy supplement on Amazon. Reduced my dog’s itching substantially. My vet said keep using it!

Author: Jay C.

Likes: 18

Hills Science Diet for sensitive skin & stomach = tuna & Vegetables

Author: Jackie N.

Likes: 2

He gets salmon, green beans, potatoes and other veggies.

Author: Pat C.

Likes: 1

I feed them foods with cool proteins, like rabbit, duck, pork and seafood

Author: Pat O.

Likes: 2

Chicken allergy and potentially beef which lead to terrible diarrhea. We went with a novel protein diet and now she is comfortable with pork, rabbit, duck. She loves fish treats and hates fish based kibble and wet foods.

Author: Michael M.

Likes: 1

I make my own. Chicken, rice, vegetables

Author: Crystal C.

Likes: 2

Blue Wilderness Salmon! No dyes, grains or by products. Same with treats

Author: Kay B.

Likes: 2

Raw food. Southcliffe Complete mixed with vegetables and sprats

Author: Emma Jane B.

Likes: 2

Raw lamb from Stella and Chewy

Author: Patty Riley R.

Likes: 2

Iams Lamb and Rice

Author: Debra B.

Likes: 1

Rice and fish or turkey Sweet potato may give diarrhea

Author: Ann W.

Likes: 0

Frequently Asked Questions: Best Foods for Maltese with Allergies

1. What are common food allergies in Maltese dogs?
   Maltese dogs are prone to allergies from common ingredients such as chicken, beef, dairy, soy, wheat, and corn. These ingredients can trigger skin irritation, gastrointestinal distress, and chronic ear infections. Identifying and eliminating allergens through an elimination diet or allergy testing is a crucial first step.

2. What ingredients should I look for in hypoallergenic dog food for a Maltese?
   Look for limited-ingredient diets that include novel proteins like duck, salmon, or venison, and easily digestible carbohydrates such as sweet potatoes or brown rice. Also consider foods with added omega-3 fatty acids, probiotics, and no artificial preservatives or fillers.

3. Is grain-free food better for Maltese with allergies?
   Not necessarily. While some Maltese may benefit from grain-free diets if they are allergic to grains like wheat or corn, others tolerate whole grains well. It’s essential to identify the specific allergen affecting your Maltese rather than assuming grains are the culprit.

4. Can homemade dog food help with allergies in Maltese?
   Yes, homemade diets allow full control over ingredients and can be effective for dogs with multiple sensitivities. However, it’s critical to consult a veterinary nutritionist to ensure the food is balanced and meets your Maltese’s nutritional needs.

5. What are the signs that my Maltese has a food allergy?
   Common signs include excessive itching, licking paws, chronic ear infections, red or inflamed skin, gastrointestinal upset (vomiting or diarrhea), and poor coat quality. If you notice these symptoms, a vet consultation is recommended.

6. How long does it take to see improvements after switching to allergy-friendly food?
   Most Maltese dogs begin showing improvement within 6–8 weeks after switching to an allergy-friendly or elimination diet. However, some symptoms may take longer to resolve fully, depending on the severity of the allergy.

7. Are prescription allergy diets necessary for a Maltese with food allergies?
   Prescription diets can be helpful, especially in severe or complex cases. They often contain hydrolyzed proteins or unique ingredients to avoid common allergens. However, some over-the-counter limited-ingredient diets may also work well with guidance from your veterinarian.

As always, be sure to consult your veterinarian before making any health changes to your Maltese’s food. iHeartDogs is reader supported, so some of the links above may be affiliate links where we receive a small commission at no additional cost to you.