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Dealing with your German Shepherd’s food allergies can be beyond frustrating! We asked our 800,000 members in the German Shepherd community on Facebook the following question: “Those of you with German Shepherds 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 German Shepherd’s diet. Also, view our roundup of the Best Foods for Dogs with Allergies.
Healthier Meals for Dogs With Allergies
My Chopper was allergic to wheat, so we went to Nature’s Recipe Lamb and Rice. I’ve fed all my GSDs that ever since (more than six of them over 10 years). It’s never had a recall.
Author: Jo Ann McKahan B.
Likes: 7
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
All my animals are on a raw diet. No allergies, no skin conditions.
Author: Barb P.
Likes: 6
Purina Pro Sensitive skin and stomach. Vet recommended and has not needed steroids or had any breakouts since she started
Author: Melissa M.
Likes: 3
Grain-free. But…Give a teaspoon of Raw organic coconut oil in food, work up to a tablespoon a day. What it does is control the Candida overgrowth in the gut, which is the basis of supposed allergies and sensitive skin issues. Learned all this from a very trusted Dr. Works every time!!!!
Author: James K.
Likes: 1
Taste of the wild. Bison n Vinson
Author: Lisa H.
Likes: 4
We use Blue Buffalo Basics, grain-free, duck and potato. He’s allergic to beef, rice, lamb, sweet potatoes, corn, and carrots. Various molds and grass. Spring and fall are rough. He’s currently on a steroid because of itching and biting that resulted in a hot spot. This was after 3 weeks of Apoquel. Really wish they would come out with a generic for that.
Author: Nikki M.
Likes: 1
We used Diamond Naturals Grain-free white fish and sweet potato.
Author: Reneé Zingalie S.
Likes: 2
My girl, Lady, was allergic to chicken. I switched her to Timberwolf Salmon Kibble & the scratch & shaking VANISHED IMMEDIATELY!! OVER NIGHT!!! I later switched to: Taste of the Wild Salmon Kibble, & she thrived until DM took her at age 16!
Author: Lynn B.
Likes: 3
Mine has a problem with chicken, so we use Diamond Naturals large breed lamb and rice, no corn, wheat, or soy
Author: Carol Rosch T.
Likes: 2
I use Blue Buffalo salmon and sweet potatoes formula for mine. She’s allergic to anything with corn in it. She loves this food, and the salmon does good things for her skin and coat
Author: Barbara Jean O.
Likes: 1
Authority sensitive skin and stomach. Plus, I give her plain yogurt and pumpkin purée, which is good for digestion.
Author: Sherry G.
Likes: 3
This is a good one: Has Beef, Lamb, Fish, and Wild Boar….. NO CHICKEN or Grain…..
Author: Al K.
Likes: 0
Hill Science for sensitive skin and stomach.
Author: Rusty M.
Likes: 0
Raw because it’s the only food that didn’t upset her stomach after years of trying to find something suitable.
Author: Tez K.
Likes: 0
Nature’s Recipe Chicken, Pumpkin, and Sweet Potato
Author: Jami Granger H.
Likes: 0
We use Blue Buffalo Basics Salmon and potatoes. No chicken/no grain. Plus, we give her a fish oil capsule, and she takes 1 1/2 Apoquel tablets every day to help her skin dermatitis. It all works well and stays under control.
Author: Terri B.
Likes: 0
The only thing that we have found that helps is Zignature Trout and Salmon.
Author: Samantha K.
Likes: 0
Royal Canin! It’s specially formulated for the breed!
Author: Kevin L.
Likes: 0
Simply nourish large breed salmon and sweet potato is great too
Author: Akshita C.
Likes: 0
To keep my shepherd’s skin from being dry (looking like eczema), I put a little olive oil in their food…this is what the dry foods lack, and my shepherd’s fur and skin are healthy; my dad had me do this.
Author: Debbie R.
Likes: 0
FAQs: Best Foods for German Shepherds with Allergies
Here are some frequently asked questions (FAQs) about feeding German Shepherds with allergies. These answers are designed to be informative and optimized for SEO.
1. What are the common food allergies in German Shepherds?
German Shepherds commonly develop allergies to proteins like chicken, beef, dairy, wheat, and soy. Identifying the specific allergen can help you choose a suitable diet.
2. How can I tell if my German Shepherd has a food allergy?
Signs of food allergies in German Shepherds include itchy skin, ear infections, gastrointestinal issues like vomiting or diarrhea, and excessive licking or scratching. Consulting a veterinarian can confirm the allergy.
3. What ingredients should I avoid in dog food for allergic German Shepherds?
Avoid ingredients like chicken, beef, wheat, soy, and dairy if your dog has shown sensitivity. Opt for limited-ingredient diets or hypoallergenic formulas to reduce the risk of allergic reactions.
4. Are grain-free diets better for German Shepherds with allergies?
Not necessarily. While some dogs are sensitive to grains, others may react to proteins instead. It’s essential to conduct a proper allergy test to identify triggers before choosing a grain-free option.
5. What are some of the best protein sources for German Shepherds with allergies?
Novel proteins such as duck, venison, lamb, and fish are less likely to cause allergic reactions compared to common proteins like chicken and beef. Look for high-quality, single-protein dog foods.
6. Can homemade dog food help manage allergies in German Shepherds?
Yes, homemade diets can be beneficial as they allow complete control over ingredients. However, consult a veterinarian or pet nutritionist to ensure the diet is nutritionally balanced.
7. What are the benefits of hypoallergenic dog food for German Shepherds?
Hypoallergenic dog foods use hydrolyzed proteins or novel ingredients that minimize allergic reactions. They are especially beneficial for dogs with chronic skin issues or digestive problems related to food allergies.
Support Your Dog’s Allergy Relief With Better Nutrition
Choosing the right food can make a world of difference for dogs with allergies. When you select recipes made with gentle ingredients and clean nutrition, you help soothe irritation, support digestion, and keep your pup feeling their best. Every thoughtful choice brings your dog closer to the comfort and wellness they deserve. With the right allergy-friendly diet, you can ease symptoms and enjoy more joyful, energetic days together. Because a healthy, comfortable dog is a truly happy dog.
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