When you bring home a new dog, your world is about to change. The two of you are about to venture out into the unknown together, and there will be a bumpy road ahead. Not only will you need some dog food for him, but you’ll also need some hypoallergenic dog food for him.
After all, not many people these days have dogs that are allergic to other dogs. That being said, what does hypoallergenic dog food mean? First, it isn’t necessarily the same as a hypoallergenic dog – although they can be found in the same general category. Instead, it is simply a term used to describe certain dog foods that are good for dogs with allergies or sensitivities.
What is Hypoallergenic Dog Foods?
Hypoallergenic dog foods is made with ingredients that are either less allergenic or have no effect on allergies. This is extremely helpful for people with dogs with allergies because it means some dog food brands may be safe for their dogs to eat.
This is helpful because while some dogs are allergic to specific ingredients in dog food, others are allergic to other dogs. If your dog is allergic to other dogs, then certain dog food brands may be the right choice for you and your dog.
Types of Hypoallergenic Dog Foods
Hypoallergenic Dry Dog Foods
These are dry foods made without the top 12 most common allergens that cause allergies in dogs. Hypoallergenic dry dog food ingredients will vary depending on the manufacturer but are usually made of corn, wheat, soybean, or rice.
Hypoallergenic Wet Dog Foods
These are wet foods that are also made without the top 12 most common allergens that cause allergies in dogs. The ingredients of a hypoallergenic wet food will vary depending on the manufacturer but are usually made of meat, fish, or vegetables.
Hypoallergenic Feeding Bowls
These are feeding bowls made of less allergenic materials. These bowls are mostly made of silicone or rubber, which are less allergenic than plastic.
Hypoallergenic Treats
These treats are made without the top 12 most common allergens that cause allergies in dogs. The ingredients of a hypoallergenic treat will vary depending on the manufacturer but are usually made of fruits, vegetables, or meat.
How to Choose the Best Hypoallergenic Dog Foods?
The next thing you want to consider is the ingredient quality of the hypoallergenic dog food you choose. This is extremely important because you don’t want to buy dog food with the word “hypoallergenic” on the package. You want to buy the best hypoallergenic dog food available.
This is tricky because the best hypoallergenic dog food often has the least allergenic ingredients. This is why you must know what allergens are in the hypoallergenic dog food you buy.
What is the Price Range of Hypoallergenic Dog Foods?
The last thing you want to consider is the price range of the hypoallergenic dog food you choose. This is an important thing to look into because you don’t want to buy any dog food in the hypoallergenic category. You want to buy the best hypoallergenic dog food, which can often be a little pricier than other dog foods.
When Should You Go for Hypoallergenic Dog Foods?
Many types of hypoallergenic dog food are available today, and some are better for certain dogs than others. For example, a dog allergic to corn shouldn’t eat dog food that is ultimately wheat or soybean-based dog food. If you are allergic to dogs, you will probably want to look for hypoallergenic dog foods that are wheat or soybean-free.
Tips for Feeding an Allergic or Sensitive Dog
Consult a Vet
Although most hypoallergenic dog foods are safe for dogs with allergies, it’s always a good idea to consult a vet. They can let you know if the hypoallergenic dog food you’re buying is safe for your dog, and they can also let you know if your dog is allergic to other dogs.
Make Sure You’re Feeding a Healthy Diet
Dogs allergic to certain foods often aren’t getting a healthy diet. This is why you must feed a healthy diet to your hypoallergenic dog.
Make Sure the Dog Food is Nutrient
Dense – Nutrient-density is a term used to describe the number of essential vitamins, minerals, and other nutrients a dog food contains. The best hypoallergenic dog foods are usually very nutrient-dense.
Conclusion
The best way to teach your dog that all dogs are welcome in the world is to welcome everyone to your home, whether a dog or a human. When you start feeding your new dog hypoallergenic dog food, you’ll do your part to ensure they are as comfortable as possible in their new home. This is especially important if they are allergic to other dogs, which is a growing problem thanks to the popularity of dog parks.