Allergy-Prone Dog? Try a Vegan Diet

If your pup has allergies, you've probably been through your fair share of trial-and-error with their diet. It can feel frustrating when no matter what, their itchy skin or tummy troubles inevitably start to flare up again.

Before you throw in the towel and accept that your dog will be on lifelong allergy meds, consider this: According to a study conducted in 2016 by Ralf Mueller, animal protein allergies are highly prevalent in dogs, even more so than allergies to grains. A fully plant-based diet may be the ticket to allergy relief for your pup.

The study found that beef, dairy, and chicken were the top 3 food allergens, based on a population of 297 dogs with cutaneous adverse food reactions, or CAFRs (a fancy way of saying skin reactions). CAFRs include both food hypersensitivities and food intolerances.

Food sensitivities can also present as digestive issues (loose stool, diarrhea, vomiting, etc.), so don't rule out a vegan diet for pups with tummy troubles either. Your pup's gut health is closely linked with their diet, and many sensitive pups benefit from eliminating animal ingredients entirely.

How do I safely try a vegan diet for my sensitive dog?

Look for a nutritionally complete and balanced vegan food, like v-dog, that meets AAFCO requirements. This will ensure that your pup won't be missing out on any key nutrients (i.e., you won't need to supplement their diet). V-dog is also free of wheat, soy, and corn, the top 3 plant allergens according to Mueller's study.

With a sensitive dog, it's important to transition slowly to any new food. We recommend taking 1-2 weeks to gradually incorporate the new food into their diet.

[Questions about transitioning? Reach out to our plant-powered pooch experts at support@v-dog.com.]

Meet 5 dogs who healed on a vegan diet

"Since switching to V-Dog, Rey has not had any allergy flare ups, her GI system is functioning perfectly and her hair has never looked better."

- Delilah

"Atticus had red buildup around his mouth and eyes. He would stain anything he would rest his face on. I can’t believe that in less than a month on v-dog, all the buildup around the mouth and eyes is gone!"

- Erica

"I rescued a dog with a skin condition last year and immediately transitioned him to v-dog. He’s 85 pounds of pure muscle and he hasn’t had any breakouts."

- Melissa

"Since starting this food 2 years ago, my sweet doggie has had ZERO digestive or skin problems. Before v-dog, he was itchy, gassy, and threw up regularly. He’s happier and I’m happier. Win-win!"

- Susan

"My Bulldog Pepper transitioned to v-dog one week after I adopted her. Her coat and skin are just amazing!!! I'm spreading the word to other dog owners with dogs that have allergies....no more of those problems for Pepper!"

- Kris

Learn more about allergy relief on a vegan diet

V-dog makes 100% vegan products for dogs, packed with allergy-friendly, easily digestible ingredients. By removing meat from your dog's diet, you're taking a stance against animal cruelty and lowering their carbon pawprint, all while helping boost their overall health. Shop our plant-powered products here.