The 5 Best Dog Foods For German Shepherds With Skin Allergies (Even Puppies) - Shepherd Sense (2023)

Table of Contents
What is the best food for German Shepherds with skin allergies? Best dog food for German Shepherds with skin allergies Wellness Simple Limited Ingredient Diet Grain Free Formula Salmon & Potato Dry Dog Food Best food for German Shepherds with allergies Major Benefits Natural Balance L.I.D. Limited Ingredient Diets Large Breed Lamb and Brown Rice Formula Dry Dog Food Best dog food with limited ingredients and grains Major Benefits Hill's Science Diet Dry Food for Large Breed Adult Dogs with Sensitive Stomach and Skin, Chicken and Barley, Recipe Best vet recommended dog food for skin allergies Major Benefits Blue Buffalo Basics Limited Ingredient Grain Free Formula dry dog ​​food with turkey and potatoes Best food for German Shepherd Dogs with itchy and itchy skin Major Benefits Tuscan Natural Simply Pure Lamb Meal, Limited Ingredient Dry Dog Food Major Benefits Comparison table of the best dry dog ​​food for German Shepherd skin allergies German shepherd puppies and skin allergies The best dog food for German Shepherd puppies with skin allergies Purina Pro Plan Development Sensitive Skin and Stomach Salmon and Rice dry food for large breed puppies Best dog food for German Shepherd puppies with skin allergies Major Benefits Nulo Freestyle Limited+ Grain Free Turkey Recipe for Dogs, Dry Dog Food Best Limited Ingredient Dog Food for German Shepherd Dogs Major Benefits Nulo Freestyle Limited+ Grainless Salmon Puppy Recipe Dry Dog Food Best grain free food for German Shepherd puppies Major Benefits German Shepherd puppy food comparison chart for skin allergies Allergic food supplements for German Shepherd puppies What are the most common food allergies in German Shepherds? Other food allergens Do grains cause skin allergies in German shepherds? Adverse food reactions in German shepherds food allergy food intolerance What protein sources are best for a German Shepherd with skin allergies? Hypoallergenic diets for German Shepherd allergies Protein sources in hypoallergenic diets Premium dog food and German Shepherd skin allergies Dietary supplement for skin allergies in German Shepherds omega fatty acids raw food Raw food and German shepherd puppies homemade diets Alternative holistic treatments Changing Your German Shepherd's Diet to Reduce Food Allergies: The Facts Symptoms of skin allergy in German shepherds Other skin allergies in German shepherds floh allergy food allergy atopic dermatitis Allergy-free common areas What you need to know about German Shepherds with skin allergies and their dog food 5 steps to buying dog food for a German Shepherd with skin allergies additional resources References

Finding the best dog food for German Shepherds with skin allergies can seem like a maze!

You turn left, you turn right...

E BOOM!

All the flashy marketing and glossy labels are screaming for your attention!

No wonder you feel so overwhelmed.

But feeding your German Shepherd the food he needs for his sensitive skin doesn't have to be a nightmare.

Giving your dog the relief he craves is easier than you think...

Because I'll show you exactly how to buy the best dog food for a German Shepherd with skin allergies to soothe itchy, sore skin and ease their anxiety.

Let us begin!

What is the best food for German Shepherds with skin allergies?

The 5 Best Dog Foods For German Shepherds With Skin Allergies (Even Puppies) - Shepherd Sense (1)

The best dog food for German Shepherds with skin allergies avoids common ingredient triggers like beef, dairy, or gluten while promoting healthy skin. German shepherd skin allergies are associated with digestive issues and can get worse if your dog's digestive system isn't working properly.Foods with probiotics can help reduce allergies and intolerances while increasing nutrient absorption to maintain a healthy skin barrier. These skin-friendly diets provide relief from itching and itching and play an essential role in controlling allergies and sensitivities.

Sounds impressive right?

The only problem?

Choose the right food from the endless range of pet food products and direct marketing!

Rather than fret, here is the best dog food for German Shepherds with sensitive skin and allergies selected for you.

Best dog food for German Shepherds with skin allergies

A variety of commercial pet foods with limited and varied protein sources are available for treating skin allergies at home.

These commercial pet foods:

  • are practical
  • contain new protein sources
  • are nutritionally balanced and complete

Review this list and compare it to your German Shepherd's known allergies to find the best choice for your dog.

Wellness Simple Limited Ingredient Diet Grain Free Formula Salmon & Potato Dry Dog Food

The 5 Best Dog Foods For German Shepherds With Skin Allergies (Even Puppies) - Shepherd Sense (2)

Best food for German Shepherds with allergies

Wellness Simple Salmon and Potato Recipe is an ingredient-limited grain-free dry food that consists of only five specially selected key ingredients.

Simple ingredients contain a single source of protein and ensure a healthy, shiny coat and smooth skin. With natural probiotics, antioxidants, omega fatty acids, glucosamine and taurine in a complete meal, your dog will love the delicious taste of fish.

Major Benefits

  • Formulated with natural probioticssoothe sensitive stomachs and food intolerances.
  • It contains a single source of protein with easily digestible carbohydratesReduction in stomach discomfort.
  • Designed to promote overall body health by supporting digestive function and promoting ahealthy coat and skin, which can reduce itching and scratching.

Natural Balance L.I.D. Limited Ingredient Diets Large Breed Lamb and Brown Rice Formula Dry Dog Food

The 5 Best Dog Foods For German Shepherds With Skin Allergies (Even Puppies) - Shepherd Sense (3)

Best dog food with limited ingredients and grains

Natural Balance L.I.D. Limited Ingredient Diets Dry Dog Food, Lamb & Brown Rice, Large Breed Formula is a gluten-free, grain-containing dry dog ​​food designed for dogs that are intolerant to common protein sources.

While consumers still have the option of using gluten-free grains, the fiber in brown rice helps maintain your dog's healthy digestion. Brown rice helps with bowel regulation, while the larger kibble size helps keep teeth clean and strong.

Major Benefits

  • The chicken-free formula uses real lamb as the first ingredientsensitive dogs allergic to poultryj.
  • The inclusive grain formula isgluten-free, for owners who prefer a low-ingredient, grain-based diet.
  • The kibble is designed for the jaws and teeth of large breedsEncourage large breed dogs to eat more slowly, reducing bloating and stomach upset.

Hill's Science Diet Dry Food for Large Breed Adult Dogs with Sensitive Stomach and Skin, Chicken and Barley, Recipe

The 5 Best Dog Foods For German Shepherds With Skin Allergies (Even Puppies) - Shepherd Sense (4)

Best vet recommended dog food for skin allergies

Hill's Science Diet Adult Sensitive Stomach and Large Breed Chicken Barley Recipe is specially formulated for adult large breed dogs over 50 pounds.

First we introduce real chickenThe vet-recommended food contains prebiotic fiber to support a healthy microbiome for German Shepherds with sensitive skin.Added beet pulp increases fiber and promotes tighter, more regular bowel movements.

For those who cannot afford prescription diets, this research-backed dog food is an affordable, high-quality alternative for German Shepherds suffering from allergies or excessive itching and scratching.

Major Benefits

  • Combined nutrient-rich prebiotic fibers support stool qualityMake cleaning less stressful.
  • Highly digestible ingredients for optimal nutritionSmoothes sensitive tummies and reduces blemishes.
  • Veterinarian recommended formula forDogs prone to allergies and stomach problems.

Blue Buffalo Basics Limited Ingredient Grain Free Formula dry dog ​​food with turkey and potatoes

The 5 Best Dog Foods For German Shepherds With Skin Allergies (Even Puppies) - Shepherd Sense (5)

Best food for German Shepherd Dogs with itchy and itchy skin

Blue Buffalo's Basics Basics Limited Ingredient Diet grain-free formula is a palatable, reduced-ingredient diet for German Shepherds with food intolerances that can cause itching and scratching.

This limited-ingredient diet recipe features a single source of animal protein and includes pumpkin and easily digestible carbohydrates. Prepared with BLUE's exclusive LifeSource Bits to support your dog's health and well-being. This combination of uniquely selected antioxidants, minerals and vitamins is handpicked by veterinarians and animal nutritionists.

Major Benefits

  • The recipe is gluten-free for sensitive tummiescan be easily disturbed by regular dog food to prevent allergy symptoms.
  • Limited ingredient turkey dog ​​food that is not only healthy but also appetizing for your pet.Made for picky eaters only.
  • Made without artificial flavors or preservativesReduce chemical allergic reactions on the skin and prevent scratches.

Tuscan Natural Simply Pure Lamb Meal, Limited Ingredient Dry Dog Food

The 5 Best Dog Foods For German Shepherds With Skin Allergies (Even Puppies) - Shepherd Sense (6)

Tuscan Natural Simply Pure Lamb Meal Dry Dog Food is a hypoallergenic formula made with animal-raised, grass-fed lamb meal as the first ingredient.

This unique source of protein helps dogs with allergies and sensitivities that are intolerant to the more commonly used proteins. This grain-infused formula is made with antioxidant-rich extra virgin olive oil for healthy skin and coat and is sustainably sourced.

Major Benefits

  • The hypoallergenic and easily digestible formulaHelps reduce food intolerance, thereby reducing stomach upset and skin allergies.
  • Added olive oil provides essential monounsaturated fatty acidssupport shiny skin and coat.
  • Simple and limited ingredientsfor dogs with allergies and skin intolerances that are prone to stomach pain and skin rashes.

Comparison table of the best dry dog ​​food for German Shepherd skin allergies

Best dog food for German Shepherds with skin allergiesmain proteinUnique animal protein source?Is it grain free?Is it wheat free?is it gluten freeDoes it contain omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids?
Wellness Simple Limited Ingredient Diet Grain Free Formula Salmon & Potato Dry Dog FoodSalmonSimSimSimSimSim
Natural Balance L.I.D. Limited Ingredient Diets Large Breed Lamb and Brown Rice Formula Dry Dog FoodLammSimNOSimSimSim
Hill's Science Diet Dry Food for Large Breed Adult Dogs with Sensitive Stomach and Skin, Chicken and Barley, RecipeChicken* Please note that while this is not a new protein, it is the only AAFCO foodresearched food experiments.NONOSimNOSim
Blue Buffalo Basics Limited Ingredient Grain Free Formula dry dog ​​food with turkey and potatoesPeruSimSimSimSimSim
Tuscan Natural Simply Pure Lamb Meal, Limited Ingredient Dry Dog FoodLammSimNOSimSimSim

German shepherd puppies and skin allergies

Even German Shepherd puppies can develop skin problems due to food allergies.

They may be suffering from stress from having to leave their mother and litter, stomach upset from changing their diet, or allergies to new irritants in their home.

So what's the solution?

Switching to a food that's better suited to your pup's sensitive skin can help make him less itchy, improve bowel movements, and relieve dry skin. However, you must choose wisely to avoid an allergic outbreak on the skin.

The best dog food for German Shepherd puppies with skin allergies

The 5 Best Dog Foods For German Shepherds With Skin Allergies (Even Puppies) - Shepherd Sense (8)

If you have a German Shepherd puppy, you'll want to feed them dry food that's specially formulated for sensitive skin and stomach, with limited ingredients, or formulated for gentle digestion.It is best practice to feed a large breed puppy a nutritionally complete, sensitive dry food to avoid imbalances during their crucial growth phase.

Dry dog ​​food is the easiest to feed for oral health because of the convenience, price, and polishing effect on your pup's teeth. However, if your dog prefers it, you can dampen the food with warm water to mash the dry kibble and make the texture more appealing.

Purina Pro Plan Development Sensitive Skin and Stomach Salmon and Rice dry food for large breed puppies

The 5 Best Dog Foods For German Shepherds With Skin Allergies (Even Puppies) - Shepherd Sense (9)

Best dog food for German Shepherd puppies with skin allergies

Purina Pro Plan Development Sensitive Skin & Stomach Salmon & Rice with Probiotics dry food for large breed puppies is backed by research using food testing for dogs with sensitivities.

Specially formulated for large breed puppies under 12 months, delicious salmon is the key ingredient. And fish is known not only for its attractive taste, but also for its high digestibility for dogs.

It facilitates digestion and causes less stress in the stomach.

Major Benefits

  • Highly digestible salmon is a high-protein recipeeasy on little tummies.
  • Oatmeal was used for supportcalm digestion and prevent allergic skin reactions.
  • Contains DHA from fish oilhealthy brain development.
  • Probiotics support sensitive immune systems andCreate more balanced gut bacteria for smoother elimination.

Nulo Freestyle Limited+ Grain Free Turkey Recipe for Dogs, Dry Dog Food

The 5 Best Dog Foods For German Shepherds With Skin Allergies (Even Puppies) - Shepherd Sense (10)

Best Limited Ingredient Dog Food for German Shepherd Dogs

If you're looking for a limited-ingredient diet for your German Shepherd puppy, you'll be pleased to know that Nulo Freestyle Limited+ Turkey Recipe Grain-Free Puppy & Adult Dry Dog Food consists of only a single source of animal meat for 30% Crude protein in every bowl.

Packed with probiotics to support your growing pup's digestive and immune health, as well as omega fatty acids for healthy skin and coat.

Major Benefits

  • The unique animal protein formula contains turkey as the first ingredientfor dogs allergic to chicken and chicken meal.
  • With specially formulated probiotics to support a healthy gut and immune system –exactly what dogs with skin allergies need.
  • The multi-stage life cycle formula isGood for puppies transitioning to adult-only food.

Nulo Freestyle Limited+ Grainless Salmon Puppy Recipe Dry Dog Food

The 5 Best Dog Foods For German Shepherds With Skin Allergies (Even Puppies) - Shepherd Sense (11)

Best grain free food for German Shepherd puppies

Is your German Shepherd puppy very sensitive to grain and corn?

Then provide him with the ingredient-restricted nutrition he needs with this Nulo Freestyle Limited + Salmon Recipe grain-free dry food for puppies and adults.

The pure salmon formula is rich in probiotics to support digestive health and contains omega fatty acids to soothe itchy skin and improve your pup's coat.

In fact, it contains no grain or anything artificial for highly sensitive dogs.

Major Benefits

  • Salmon is the first ingredient foreasier digestion in sensitive tummies for less clutter and stress.
  • Low carb for owners who are lookingIncrease the protein content in your pup's diet.
  • Made without chicken, eggs, peas, corn, wheat, soy, pea protein or artificial colors and preservativesAvoid common skin allergens.

German Shepherd puppy food comparison chart for skin allergies

Best dog food for German Shepherds with skin allergiesmain proteinIs it a single animal protein source?Is it wheat free?is it gluten freeAdvantages
Purina Pro Plan Development Sensitive Skin and Stomach Salmon and Rice dry food for large breed puppiesSalmonNOSimNOVeterinarian recommended puppy food that has passed feeding tests for puppies with sensitive skin and digestion.
Nulo Freestyle Limited+ Grain Free Turkey Recipe for Dogs, Dry Dog FoodPeruSimSimSimMade from a single source of animal protein for puppies with chicken allergies.
Nulo Freestyle Limited+ Grainless Salmon Puppy Recipe Dry Dog FoodSalmonSimSimSimA limited ingredient, grain, gluten and corn-free diet designed to reduce food intolerance in highly sensitive puppies with skin conditions.

Allergic food supplements for German Shepherd puppies

The 5 Best Dog Foods For German Shepherds With Skin Allergies (Even Puppies) - Shepherd Sense (12)

German Shepherd puppies with sensitive skin do well with the addition of salmon oil to their daily diet. And fish oil has been shown to increase skin hydration and health.

PetHonesty Anti-Scratch Turkey Flavored Salmon Oil Liquid Dietary Supplement for Dogs with Allergiesis a liquid oil supplement that is easy to add to your dog's food. It might even tempt a picky eater to eat their food to the last bite!

But that is not all…

Research shows that oils with omega fatty acids help soothe inflamed skin and moisturize to fight itchiness and itchiness.

How awesome is that?

If your dog is very picky, you may need to add the oil gradually to get him used to the taste. Or you can give them a chewable allergy supplement, such asPetHonesty Allergy Skin Health Salmon Flavored Soft Chewable Food Supplement.

Avoid puppy multivitamins as your dog's dry food is complete and balanced. Extra vitamins and minerals in concentrated form can cause joint damage during growth due to calcium or phosphorus imbalance.

I know it's a lot of information to take in...

But stay with me here and you will learn a lot about how to manage your German Shepherd’s itchy skin.

What are the most common food allergies in German Shepherds?

The 5 Best Dog Foods For German Shepherds With Skin Allergies (Even Puppies) - Shepherd Sense (13)

In German Shepherds, the most commonly reported food allergies are beef, dairy, wheat, chicken, and egg. All of these ingredients have been common parts of commercial diets for the past three decades, and pets tend to be allergic to proteins that have been in their diets for months or years.

Many people don't suspect that food allergies are the cause of German Shepherd itching because the dog has been fed the same food its entire life and has recently started showing symptoms. However, German Shepherds can develop an allergy to a certain substance over time, so this fact does not rule out a food allergy.

German Shepherds have a higher genetic predisposition to skin allergies. While food allergies can occur at almost any age, allergies are more likely to occur in middle-aged dogs (Those).

However, it is important to note that not all commercial diets have been adequately tested in dogs with known food allergies.

The fastest way to find out the cause of your dog's allergic reactions is to visit the vet.

Keep in mind that it can take 8 to 12 weeks to see the effects of a skin allergy diet.

Other food allergens

The 5 Best Dog Foods For German Shepherds With Skin Allergies (Even Puppies) - Shepherd Sense (14)

While proteins are generally a greater trigger of skin allergies in German shepherds than other ingredients, there are a variety of other potential food allergens.

Common Food Allergens in German Shepherds:

  • beef
  • dairy
  • Military
  • Wheat
  • Oats
  • Owner
  • Chicken
  • pork meat
  • Yeast
The 5 Best Dog Foods For German Shepherds With Skin Allergies (Even Puppies) - Shepherd Sense (15)

Dairy products are another ingredient that can aggravate skin allergies or cause stomach sensitivity. Some dogs are lactose intolerant and dairy products could be to blame for their red, itchy, and itchy skin.

Lactose intolerance can also cause gas, bloating, abdominal discomfort, and diarrhea after consuming dairy or milk products.

Do grains cause skin allergies in German shepherds?

The 5 Best Dog Foods For German Shepherds With Skin Allergies (Even Puppies) - Shepherd Sense (16)

No, grains do not generally cause skin allergies in German Shepherds. Cereals are actually a rarer trigger of allergies than animal products, even if the opposite is often claimed on the Internet.

Corn accounts for only about 4% of allergies.

However, wheat grains are reported as a food allergen in 13% of dogs.

Although grains are a less common cause of skin allergies, it's a good idea to check the pet food you buy for wheat ingredients to avoid this known allergen.

Adverse food reactions in German shepherds

The 5 Best Dog Foods For German Shepherds With Skin Allergies (Even Puppies) - Shepherd Sense (17)

A recent study published inBMC Veterinary Research Journalfound that German shepherds are at high risk of developing adverse reactions to food (Those).

However, what some owners refer to as a "food allergy" is more appropriately described as an "adverse food reaction" from a clinical perspective.

Adverse food reactions in dogs are generally classified into two categories:

  • food allergy
  • food intolerance

Let's take a quick look at each one so you can better help your dog with their skin problems.

food allergy

A food allergy is a reaction by the immune system to certain proteins in your dog's food. German shepherds with food allergies may have gastrointestinal distress (diarrhea and vomiting), skin issues (redness, itching, secondary skin infections, and ear infections), or both.

Luckily, true food allergies in German Shepherds are very rare. Less than 1-3% of dogs have a clinical food allergy (Those).

food intolerance

In the case of a food intolerance, on the other hand, the immune system is not affected. For example, lactose intolerance (a reaction to dairy products) and fat intolerance (some dogs develop diarrhea when given a high-fat food or treat).

Food intolerances are quite common and can lead to diarrhea, vomiting or other gastrointestinal problems. Rarer, but still possible, a food intolerance can lead to skin problems.

When you change your dog's food, it's not just the ingredients that change - protein, carbohydrates, fats, fiber, digestibility, and amounts of other nutrients or supplements can also change.

All of these changes can affect your dog's digestive system. This makes solving your German Shepherd’s skin problems a challenge.

A quicker way to diagnose food allergies is to get oneCheap food intolerance testto eliminate the causes of intolerance or allergies. This type of home test simply involves sending about 10 strands of skin to a lab for testing.

If you're considering a diet for your German Shepherd's skin allergies, do some research on that as wellHealthy food for German Shepherds with stomach sensitivityto find even more useful information to keep your dog happy.

What protein sources are best for a German Shepherd with skin allergies?

The 5 Best Dog Foods For German Shepherds With Skin Allergies (Even Puppies) - Shepherd Sense (18)

Food allergies in German Shepherds are usually directed against a specific protein in the food. This is usually gluten, meat or dairy.

When treating a food allergy, the offending protein is usually avoided. New (unusual) protein-based diets can help relieve allergies for itchy skin problems.

New protein diets contain a unique source of protein that your dog has never eaten before. Therefore, he did not develop an allergy. Examples of new proteins are venison, duck, salmon and white fish. Some new proteins are even more exotic - like kangaroo.

The new proteins include:

  • white fish
  • Salmon
  • pato
  • Wild
  • kangaroo

This meat is commonly used in hypoallergenic German Shepherd diets to reduce skin inflammation and soothe sensitive tummies.

Hypoallergenic diets for German Shepherd allergies

The 5 Best Dog Foods For German Shepherds With Skin Allergies (Even Puppies) - Shepherd Sense (19)

Most hypoallergenic diets include proteins and carbohydrates that your dog has not eaten before to reduce potential allergens. Because 80% of food allergies in dogs are due to beef, dairy, and wheat, you should avoid feeding these products (Those).

New sources of protein for hypoallergenic diets are pork, salmon, duck and kangaroo. Carbohydrate sources can include potatoes, peas, yams, sweet potatoes, and canned pumpkin.

Although the most inexpensive way to determine which foods your German Shepherd may or may not be allergic to is by usingAffordable home allergy testIn many cases, your GSD may have a food intolerance rather than an actual allergy.

In these cases, hypoallergenic commercial diets may alleviate or alleviate skin allergies in German shepherds (Those).

Protein sources in hypoallergenic diets

new proteinsCommon allergenic proteins
white fishbeef
SalmonOwner
patoMilitary
Wildpork meat
kangarooChicken

Premium dog food and German Shepherd skin allergies

The 5 Best Dog Foods For German Shepherds With Skin Allergies (Even Puppies) - Shepherd Sense (20)

Another common misconception is that German Shepherds are only sensitive to low-quality commercial dog food. But if they're allergic to an ingredient, it doesn't matter if it's premium food or the cheapest brand on the market.

Even if the quality of premium food for the diet and diet of a German Shepherd is better, the source of allergy is still the same with both foods.

One benefit of purchasing premium food for your GSD is that you will typically need to feed less food due to the quality of the ingredients.

Dietary supplement for skin allergies in German Shepherds

The 5 Best Dog Foods For German Shepherds With Skin Allergies (Even Puppies) - Shepherd Sense (21)

There are two commonly recommended dietary supplements for German Shepherds with dry, itchy skin.

They are:

  • Essential omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids
  • And allergen supplements for seasonal outbreaks

omega fatty acids

The 5 Best Dog Foods For German Shepherds With Skin Allergies (Even Puppies) - Shepherd Sense (22)

Omega fatty acids are needed to maintain your dog's healthy skin and give them a shiny coat. These fatty acids have a mild anti-inflammatory effect on the skin and help reduce skin dryness. They are reported to help around 20% of allergic dogs and are not harmful when administered according to the manufacturer's directions. There are practically no side effects.

Because of their effectiveness on skin problems and the low rate of side effects, it is worth including them in your German Shepherd’s diet (Those).

There are numerous combination products for dogs available in capsule, powder, liquid, or chewable form. The fatty acids help reduce allergic skin inflammation and itching, but dogs with other medical conditions such as high cholesterol or blood clotting problems should not take them.

A preferred choice for omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids is PointPet Omega 3, 6 and 9 supplements for dog skin and coat. This dietary supplement is easy to administer in the form of a tasty chewy candy and has no fishy smell. 🐠

For more fish oil information and options, see this helpful article:Fish Oil Supplements for German Shepherd Dogs

For German Shepherds, who are more prone to skin allergies during certain times of the year, a seasonal allergy supplement is helpful to alleviate skin concerns.PetHonesty AllergySupport Soft, chewable salmon flavored food supplement for dogsIt's a great option for seasonal support for itchy German Shepherds.

Wait 4 to 12 weeks to see the effect of any of the complementary treatments.

raw food

The 5 Best Dog Foods For German Shepherds With Skin Allergies (Even Puppies) - Shepherd Sense (23)

There has been a recent trend toward raw food, and proponents of the diet often refer to their "natural" ingredients or are "evolutionally correct." But these claims are not supported by science (Those).

Don't take my word for it...

See the official statement from the World Small Animal Veterinary Association for yourself.

Unfortunately, raw feeding is risky, especially for German Shepherds with skin problems.

Dogs with allergies are already susceptible to pathogens due to their weakened immune systems. Raw meat and proteins contain bacteria that are not only harmful to your dog, but also to you and your children.

Even a spotless cleaning of countertops or freezing raw meat beforehand won't stop your dog from transmitting the bacteria and pathogens in raw meat through his saliva.

These pathogens linger throughout the home, putting you and your family at risk of disease. If you really want raw food, take the time to buy a German Shepherd.Food intolerance test at hometo understand the best nutrition for your health.

Raw food and German shepherd puppies

The 5 Best Dog Foods For German Shepherds With Skin Allergies (Even Puppies) - Shepherd Sense (24)

A raw food diet is difficult to balance and carries many risks for German Shepherd puppies.

There is a growing body of research raising serious concerns about nutritional imbalances and health risks for dogs, especially growing puppies.

Find out why this is important...

A research study found that 6-week-old large breed puppies fed raw bone and raw food (BARF) from about 3 weeks of age developed malformations in their bones — a harmful condition for large breed dogs.

Another study looked specifically at German shepherd puppies fed raw meat and rice who subsequently developed hyperparathyroidism, a condition that causes osteoporosis, weakness and pain in the bones and joints.

Unfortunately, the raw food diet for German Shepherd puppies is difficult to manage.

homemade diets

The 5 Best Dog Foods For German Shepherds With Skin Allergies (Even Puppies) - Shepherd Sense (25)

Homemade diets are another way for you to control the ingredients in your dog's food.

Keep in mind that these diets are time-consuming, difficult to balance, and may not provide the right level of nutrients for long-term nutrition.

Because of this, using a homemade diet is often a temporary measure until the best dog nutrition is found.

Alternative holistic treatments

The 5 Best Dog Foods For German Shepherds With Skin Allergies (Even Puppies) - Shepherd Sense (26)

Some owners prefer not to take long-term prescription medications for their dogs when treating allergies.

In this case, holistic allergy treatments help to manage skin problems. Look for a holistic doctor who uses classic homeopathic treatments for pet allergies as a natural alternative to clinical medication.

In some cases, the holistic veterinarian can rebalance the immune system and alleviate unresolved skin problems.

Changing Your German Shepherd's Diet to Reduce Food Allergies: The Facts

The 5 Best Dog Foods For German Shepherds With Skin Allergies (Even Puppies) - Shepherd Sense (27)

A common misconception that still lingers around is that switching between different diets can prevent food allergies from developing in your German Shepherd Dog. There is no evidence that you should feed your dog different foods or change your dog's diet to prevent allergies.

In fact, this technique can backfire when a food allergy is suspected and the pet has been fed a large number of diets with a wide variety of ingredients.

Do you think I'm exaggerating?

As part of treating food allergies, your veterinarian may ask you to put your dog on a diet with ingredients your GSD has never eaten.

Frequently changing your dog's diet can make a food-free diet overly difficult. And finding a suitable new (untested) diet to try a diet will not only take more time and cause more stress for you and your dog, it will also cost more money.

Symptoms of skin allergy in German shepherds

The 5 Best Dog Foods For German Shepherds With Skin Allergies (Even Puppies) - Shepherd Sense (28)

The most common symptom of a skin allergy in German Shepherds is persistent itching. However, skin allergies in a German Shepherd can produce a number of symptoms.

This can include:

  • excessive scratches
  • Excessive licking (can be on a specific part of the body or all over the body)
  • wounds
  • Red, irritated, or scaly skin
  • Biting or chewing the skin
  • hair loss
  • Head shaking (especially with itching and discomfort in the ear)
  • Rubbing ears or face
  • Rubbing or sliding on surfaces

With severe skin allergies in German shepherds, you not only need to manage the discomfort and stress of the allergic reaction, but also the more serious risk of secondary infection.

Have you ever thought that your dog might have other allergies besides food?

Other skin allergies in German shepherds

The 5 Best Dog Foods For German Shepherds With Skin Allergies (Even Puppies) - Shepherd Sense (29)

One or more different causes can lead to an allergy in your German Shepherd Dog.

Allergens are divided into three main groups. Within each group, your GSD may be allergic to something very specific, but the groups often overlap. This means your dog may be allergic to one or all of the three main groups.

The main groups are:

  • floh allergy
  • food allergy
  • atopic dermatitis

floh allergy

Some pets are allergic to flea saliva that is injected into the skin when they bite.

This is the most common form of allergy in dogs and can result in scratching, chewing and biting.

You may notice small red patches called papules that itch and bite on your GSD, making the skin appear more inflamed and irritated.

food allergy

A food allergy is a reaction to a specific food protein or chemical that a dog ingests. Food allergies can also occur if your dog has eaten the same food for months or years.

Food allergies are manifested on the skin and cause great concern to the owners, since the dog feels discomfort and pain on a daily basis.

Any dog ​​found to be itchy more than usual may have a food allergy.

atopic dermatitis

Atopic dermatitis is essentially a reaction to an allergen in the environment.

It is comparable to asthma or hay fever in humans.

Environmental allergens can be seasonal, such as reactions to pollen, or they can be present year-round, such as with dust mites in the home.

With seasonal atopic dermatitis, the German shepherd can only itch if the allergen is present in sufficient quantity to trigger a reaction. Dogs may rub their eyes, sneeze, or cough when they feel the trigger.

Allergy-free common areas

The 5 Best Dog Foods For German Shepherds With Skin Allergies (Even Puppies) - Shepherd Sense (30)

German shepherds have allergies in many areas of their bodies.

For example:

  • ears
  • Eyes
  • Magen

Dietary changes can help with these allergies, but it is good to be aware that other allergens may exist and how they can affect your German Shepherd.

Just think about it.

If you change your German Shepherd's diet and he doesn't show any improvement in his skin, there may be other allergies to look out for.

Here are other areas your German Shepherd might be concerned about if they are having an allergic reaction.

Areas of concern for allergiesexamples
eyes, nose, throatSneezing, watery eyes, discharge
lower respiratory tractcause asthma
FirstCauses itchy skin, eczema, ear infections, hot spots and paw licking
ColonCauses chronic diarrhea

What you need to know about German Shepherds with skin allergies and their dog food

The 5 Best Dog Foods For German Shepherds With Skin Allergies (Even Puppies) - Shepherd Sense (31)

A true medically diagnosed food allergy is quite rare in German Shepherds.

But food intolerances and sensitivities could be to blame for your German Shepherd's itchy and red skin.

And that's why buying the best dog food for German Shepherds with skin allergies is so important.

5 steps to buying dog food for a German Shepherd with skin allergies

  1. Commercial hypoallergenic dog food with new proteins can help manage and even treat skin problems and ailments.
  2. Finding the food that triggers the allergy is not as easy and straightforward, and a vet-supervised food elimination test may be required.
  3. Grains are less likely to cause allergies on a dog's skin, but many new protein dog foods include grain-free options because of consumer preference.
  4. German Shepherds can develop food allergies at any age and are genetically more likely, but other factors can also contribute to their skin problems such as fleas, environmental factors or seasonal allergies - remember that food isn't the only culprit.
  5. Make sure your dog takes omega fatty acid supplements to help strengthen their healthy layer of skin and give them an extra layer of support and nourishment.

With the right plan, the best dog food for German Shepherds with skin allergies can give your dog some much-needed relief.

More importantly, you help them feel comfortable in their own skin.

additional resources

Axelsson E, et al. The genomic signature of dog domestication reveals adaptation to a starchy diet. Nature 2013;495:360-364

DeLay J, Laing J. Nutritional osteodystrophy in puppies fed BARF.AHL-Bulletin.2002;6:23.

Kawaguchi K, Braga IS, III, Takahashi A, Ochiai K, Itakura C. Secondary nutritional hyperparathyroidism occurring in a German shepherd puppy line.Jpn J Vet Res.1993;41:89–96.

Lloyd, D. Diagnosis and management of adverse food reactions in dogs.Proc World Small Animal Vet Assoc World Congr2006.

Mueller RS, et al. Critically reviewed topic on pet food side effects (2): Common sources of food allergens in dogs and cats. BMC Vet Res. 2016; 12:9,

Mueller and others. food hypersensitivity. small animal dermatology. Philadelphia: W.B. Saunders Company (1989), pp. 470-474

Roudebush, P. Ingredients Associated with Adverse Food Reactions in Dogs and Cats.Adr Small Anim Med Surg2002; 15(9):1.

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