Dog food allergies

Some dogs can be sensitive to the food they eat – and while this can be a worry for pet owners, knowing the signs and understanding common triggers can make a real difference. This guide explores dog food allergies, what can cause them, and how to support your dog if you're concerned about their diet.

What are dog food allergies?

Dog food allergies happen when a dog’s immune system reacts to a particular ingredient in their diet. This can affect dogs of all ages and breeds, though literature reports that some breeds (such as West Highland White Terriers, Rhodesian Ridgebacks and Pugs) may be more prone. 

Reactions often show up through changes in the skin or digestion, and it's important to monitor your dog's overall health and behaviour. If you're unsure, always speak to your vet.

Changes in your dog’s routine or wellbeing can sometimes be linked to what’s in their bowl. As YuMOVE in-house vet Dr Charlotte explains,

“What your dog eats can affect their wellbeing in lots of different ways. If they have sensitive digestion or skin concerns, it could be linked to something in their diet. Your vet can help you explore this further.”

What are food intolerances in dogs?

Food intolerances are different from allergies. While allergies involve an immune response, intolerances cover adverse reactions to foods that, unlike allergies, do not involve your pet's immune system. 

For example, a dog might not be allergic to dairy, but may still find it difficult to digest, as dogs can’t break down lactose. Spotting the difference can help guide your decisions on what to feed your dog.

What are the most common food allergies and intolerances in dogs?

Dogs are most often allergic to certain proteins in their food. According to this review study, the most common triggers include beef, which affects around 34% of dogs with food allergies, followed by dairy (17%), chicken (15%), wheat (13%) and lamb (5%). Other, less common allergens can include soy, corn, egg, pork, fish and rice. 

To help make sense of it all, here’s a quick overview of common allergens for dogs, the signs to look out for, and some helpful ways to support your dog’s wellbeing:

While many foods are fine for dogs – unless they have an intolerance or allergy – there are some that simply aren’t safe for pets. If you're ever unsure what food dogs are not allowed, it's best to check with a vet or qualified pet nutritionist. Some dog owners also search questions like can dogs drink beer? – the answer is a definite no. Alcohol and yeast can be harmful to dogs and should always be avoided.

Less common allergens

While some ingredients are well-known triggers, others are less obvious but have been reported. These might include:

• Lamb or fish (especially in dogs who’ve been exposed to these proteins regularly)
• Certain fruit or vegetables
• Fillers and flavourings in low-quality food

If you're exploring new foods, introduce them slowly and keep an eye on any changes in your dog’s health or habits.

Signs of dog food allergies

Dogs show different signs depending on how their body reacts to the food. The most common areas affected are the skin and digestion, but there are other clues to look out for too.

Skin concerns

Skin-related signs can be some of the first to appear. If your dog seems more irritated than usual or is scratching frequently, it could be linked to what they’re eating.

• Itchy skin and excessive licking
• Red or inflamed patches
• Changes in coat condition
• Signs of skin infection

Want to dig deeper? Take a look at why does my dog keep itching and our full dog skin allergies guide.

Stomach concerns

Digestive signs are also common. If your dog’s toilet habits have changed, it could be worth exploring their diet.

• Loose stools or vomiting
• Flatulence or signs of tummy sensitivity
• Changes in appetite or weight

Need more tips? Check out our guides on upset stomach in dogs and our handy dog poo chart.

Less common signs

These may not appear in every dog, but are still worth watching out for:

• Changes in mood or energy levels
• Restlessness or difficulty settling
• Repeated paw licking or chewing

Common ways to manage dog food allergies

There are a few helpful ways to support your dog’s wellbeing if you think they may have sensitivities to certain foods:

• Try a hydrolysed diet with your pet (your vet can advise you further on this)
• Avoid known ingredients that have previously caused concern
• Look for dog skin supplements that include Omega-3s or other helpful ingredients (remember to check them for allergens)
• Support digestion with probiotics for dogs – especially if there have been signs of tummy upset
• Keep a food diary to help spot patterns
• Check in with your vet for tailored advice

Support your dog with confidence

Understanding dog food allergies can help you support your furry friend with confidence. While every dog is different, spotting the signs early and knowing which foods to avoid can make a real difference to their wellbeing.

If you’re curious about your dog’s everyday health, take a look at our complete guide to common dog health concerns.