Why Do Some Dogs Need Single
Food allergies are the primary reason some dogs need a single-protein food.
This is the case because normally harmless proteins can trigger immune responses in dogs with allergies. In other words, the dogs immune system freaks out at the presence of a typical protein and acts as though it is a dangerous substance.
Just about any protein can cause problems, but chicken and beef are two of the most common offenders for dogs.
And because both of these ingredients are frequently used as secondary ingredients to bolster the flavor and nutritional value of dog foods , owners with allergic pups often have trouble finding suitable foods.
Other dogs dont have food allergies, but instead have something called food intolerances. Food intolerances do not trigger immune responses like allergies do they simply occur when a dogs system cant properly deal with a harmless protein.
This means that dogs with food intolerances dont typically experience immune responses, such as itchy skin. However, dogs with protein intolerances can still suffer from uncomfortable symptoms, such as gas and diarrhea.
Another potential reason a dog may require a single-protein food versus a mixed one is his individual nutritional needs.
A working Malinois, for example, may need more energy from his diet than a couch-surfing bulldog. Other dogs may need diets with less protein content to help address health conditions or shed a few extra pounds.
Best Novel Protein Dog Foods 2022 Review And Top Picks
As a pet parent, youve probably heard about novel protein dog food or possibly even given it to your dog. The term novel protein refers to a type of meat different from the meat commonly used in dog food like beef, chicken, turkey, and lamb. Since dogs allergic reactions and food sensitivity can come from these four protein sources, a novel source is needed to avoid them.
How Novel Proteins Can Help
Protein is the component in food that is the primary cause for dietary intolerance. If your dog suffers from any of the above symptoms, changing to a novel protein recipe may help.
In recent years, pet food companies have sourced an amazing array of novel meat proteins such as: Duck
The introduction of a single source, novel animal protein diet, such as GO! SOLUTIONS SENSITIVITIES Limited Ingredient Pollock Recipe, may help to alleviate your dogs symptoms. Lamb used to be considered a novel protein source, but in the past twenty years or so it has become a common pet food ingredient. However, lamb may work for dogs who have not been previously exposed to it.
Many pet owners confuse protein with meat, when in reality protein comes from plant-based ingredients as well. When different plant proteins are used in combination, they can provide all of the essential amino acids dogs require and can be excellent solutions for dogs with meat protein sensitivities. Trying different sources of protein can help to determine whether your dog is reacting to meat proteins or those in the plant-based ingredients in his food.
After introducing a novel protein to your dog, allow enough time for him to adjust to it so you can see if the new protein is helping alleviate the symptoms.
Six or eight weeks is a good time span to be able to judge whether the new food agrees with your dog.
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What Is A Food Allergy
A food allergy is when the bodys immune system reacts to an allergen, which is a tiny part of the protein which the immune system recognises as either safe or a threat. An allergen most commonly an animal protein, but can also be an animal product protein, such as dairy, or plant-based food, such as wheat and soy.
When the body encounters an allergen which it deems a threat, it triggers mast cells to release histamine and other inflammatory messengers. Mast cells are common in the skin and the guts, which is why allergies can lead to symptoms such as itchy skin, inflamed ear canals and diarrhoea.
Its important to note, a food allergy is an immune reaction and therefore different to a food intolerance, which is when the body struggles to digest an ingredient. The terminologies are often confused.
Earthborn Holistic Meadow Feast Grain
Earthborn Holistic Meadow Feast is an adult dog maintenance dry dog food designed to provide high protein and proper nourishment to dogs prone to stomach sensitivity. It will meet all the nutritional needs of your adult dogs .
Key benefits
- Uses a single protein source, i.e., premium lamb meal that will provide energy, lean muscle mass, and development. The added L-Carnitine will further help in fat conversion to energy and lean muscle.
- Has limited ingredients and doesnt have potatoes, grains, or gluten, giving an excellent choice of a grain-free recipe.
- Features a blend of fruits and vegetables, including apples, blueberries, spinach, carrots, and cranberries for additional nutrients
- Added omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids for healthy skin, coat and creating a healthy skin barrier
Additional information
- First ingredients: Lamb meal, peas, tapioca, canola oil , pea protein, pea fiber, flaxseed, natural flavors, blueberries, cranberries, apples, carrots, spinach.
- Calories:3520 kcal/kg and 370 kcal/cup calculated Metabolizable Energy ME on as fed basis.
- Guaranteed analysis: Crude protein : 26.0%, crude fat : 15.0%, crude fiber: 5.0%, moisture : 10.0%, calcium : 1.2%, phosphorus : 1.0%, omega-3 fatty acids : 1.75%, omega-6 fatty acids : 2.1%, Ascorbic Acid : 100mg/kg and L-Carnitine : 50mg/kg, vitamin E : 250 IU/kg, and Taurine : 0.05%
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Royal Canin Canine Selected Protein Adult Pr Potato Rabbit Dry Dog Food
Royal Canin Canine Selected Protein Adult PR Dry Dog Food is a veterinary exclusive novel protein dog food made with potato and rabbit ideal for canines that suffer from food sensitivities.
- Uses rabbit meal as its only animal protein source while protein from soy is hydrolyzed to ensure it doesnt cause any allergic reaction.
- It is highly digestible and very palatable
- Has added E.P.A. and D.H.A. from omega fatty acids to support healthy skin and a shiny, lustrous coat.
- Complete and balanced for adult maintenance, making it suitable for both long-term and trial feeding.
Cons
- Like other veterinary exclusive diets, it costs much more.
Additional information
- First ingredients: Dried potato, rabbit meal, coconut oil, hydrolyzed soy protein, potato protein, natural flavors, vegetable oil, monocalcium phosphate, and fish oil.
- Calorie content: On as fed basis, it has a calculated calorie value of 3495 kcal of metabolizable energy per kilogram of the food or an equivalent of 287 kilocalories M.E. per cup
- Guaranteed analysis: Crude Protein : 19.5%, Crude Fat : 10.5%, Crude Fiber : 3.7%, Moisture :10.0%, Omega 3 Fatty Acids : 0.35%, Eicosapentaenoic Acid : 0.12%, Docosahexaenoic Acid : 0.05%.
Benefits Of Kangaroo Meat For Dogs
Is kangaroo meat good for dogs? You bet! Kangaroo meat is a healthy choice for your dogs primary protein, and dog food with kangaroo meat as the primary protein is a great choice for your dog! Kangaroos are indigenous to and one of the animals that are commonly identified with Australia. Many restaurants sell entrees made from kangarooand while not all human food is good for dogs, kangaroo is one that is.
Kangaroos, unlike domesticated animals, live in the wild and enjoy a high quality of life because they dont have to endure cruel or inhumane conditions that many other animals do during their short lives. And dingos, a wild variety of domestic dogs, catch and eat kangaroos as part of their diet. So you can be sure that it will be good for your dog as well.
So what are the benefits of adding kangaroo to your dogs diet? Here are 10 reasons why you should consider kangaroo for dogs.
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Benefits Of Novel Protein Dog Food & Snacks
Our dogs rely on us to provide them with a diet that supports their health and happiness. For dog parents whose furry companions live with dietary allergies, this can be quite the feat. Navigating the world of dog food can quickly become overwhelming but when choosing a novel protein diet for your dog, it can be a great way to provide relief from itchy skin and an upset tummy. Opting for a novel protein dog food and treats also comes with a wide array of other health benefits for your BFF .
How To Choose A Novel Protein Source
When selecting a novel protein dog food, it is always best to conduct thorough research of the brand and nutritional label to determine whether there are other ingredients that your dog may be allergic to – check out our article on hypoallergenic dog foods to discover some common food allergies and intolerances in dogs.
Purchasing from a reputable supplier of novel protein dog food will ensure that all of the ingredients and nutrition within the food are fully trackable and traceable, meaning that you know exactly what your dog is consuming.
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Earthborn Holistic Venture Smoked Wild Boar
This recipe starts with fresh Wild Boar that is humanely hunted in the wild across wooded landscapes of Europe. Added to this food is handpicked, vine-ripened butternut squash from Central America.
Butternut squash is an excellent source of Vitamin A and Vitamin E. It’s also a good source of fiber, antioxidants, Vitamin C, and minerals such as manganese, magnesium, and potassium.
NO Grain, NO Gluten, NO Peas, NO Lentils, NO Legumes, NO Potato, NO Egg, NO Chicken, NO Colorants, NO Fillers, NO By-Products, NO Artificial Preservatives, and NO Genetically Modified Ingredients.
PROS: Made from real wild boar, no additives, preservatives, or bad fillers. Specially Formulated as a Grain & Gluten-Free Alternative Diet for Dogs with Sensitivities. Enriched with Added Taurine to Help Support Your Dogs Heart Health
CONS: Higher price-point
Symptoms Of Food Allergies And Food Intolerance
Food allergies rank as the third most commonly diagnosed allergies that affect cats and dogs. Food allergies can present in pets at any age. As with most allergies that afflict cats and dogs, the symptoms of a food allergy include:
- Recurring ear infections
Food intolerance differs slightly from a food allergy. Pets that suffer from a food allergy experience the above symptoms because an ingredient in the food is triggering an allergic response. Pets that suffer from food intolerance experience gastrointestinal symptoms, including vomiting or diarrhea, because an ingredient simply does not agree with them. Inflammatory bowel disease is one of the common conditions that can present with food intolerance. Whether your pet suffers from food allergies or food intolerance, the diagnosis and treatment are the same. Learn more about nutrition here.
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Final Thoughts On Our Best Novel Dog Foods For 2022
Many dogs today have allergies and food sensitivity. If thats your pup, the best overall dog food on todays list Ollies Fresh Lamb Dish With Cranberries is ideal. Diamond Naturals, Lamb Meal & Rice, our best value choice, is perfect for pet parents on a budget. Our premium choice, is Ziwi Peakss Venison Grain-Free, Air-Dried dog food, is a top-shelf novel protein dog food. Then theres Purina Pro Plan Sensitive Skin & Stomach, our choice for the best food for puppies. Lastly, our vets choice, Taste of the Wild Ancient Stream Smoke-Flavored Salmon with Ancient Grains, is just what the doctor ordered. All of these superior-quality novel protein dog foods come highly recommended.
What Are Novel Protein Dog Foods
Since these protein sources are not food in most ordinary canine diets, most dogs have not been exposed to them. Therefore, there are minimal chances that these diets will cause allergic reactions.
However, on lamb, according to Dr. Jennifer Coates, in the past, lamb and rice was the go-to, over-the-counter combination, but after it became widely available, it lost most of its efficacy. Rice is probably still okay , but so many dogs have eaten lamb at some point in their lives now that it isnt really novel anymore.
Therefore, if you opt for any diet with lamb, ensure your pet hasnt eaten it before. Otherwise, it may not be helpful.
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How Is A Food Allergy Diagnosed In Dogs
A food trial using a hypoallergenic dog food is the only reliable way to diagnose food allergies in dogs. There are two ways to do this using a novel protein source or hydrolyzed protein.
A novel protein source is one that is completely new to the dog, thereby reducing the chance of an immune response. In addition, the diet should contain a novel, single source of carbohydrates since plants also contain protein. Hypoallergenic dog food options include venison and potato, duck and pea, salmon and potato or even kangaroo, as long as the dog hasnt been exposed to these ingredients in the past. Lamb used to be considered hypoallergenic but is now in so many commercial dog foods that it is no longer novel.
Hydrolyzed diets are made when intact animal proteins are broken down into very small molecules that the immune system should not be able to recognize as allergens, virtually eliminating the possibility of an adverse food reaction. Starch or rice are typically used as carbohydrate sources because they are very infrequently associated with allergic reactions.
Once the food allergy has been diagnosed using a hypoallergenic dog food, a challenge should be performed to confirm the diagnosis. When the original diet is fed, the symptoms should return within two weeks. Following confirmation of the food allergy, single source ingredients may be added to the hypoallergenic dog food to determine exactly which ingredients must be avoided in the future.
Relief From Itchy Skin & Upset Tummy
Well start with the most obvious: Switching to a novel protein diet is often the quickest way to eliminate the allergen making your dog feel miserable.
While some dogs struggle with ingredients other than protein in their diets, meats and cheap proteins account for 95% of dog allergies. So, by switching your pup to a novel protein diet, you have the greatest chance of eliminating their allergen without having to go through a complete elimination diet process.
This means your dogs skin will heal while their digestive system will get back on tract sooner rather than later. Most dogs get relief from itchy ears and rears along with digestive peace within two to four weeks after transitioning.
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Working Towards A Sustainable Future
Our belief that pets make our world better inspires and gives life to our purpose of making a better A BETTER WORLD FOR PETS
- Ingredients
-
Potato, rabbit meal, coconut oil, hydrolyzed soy protein, potato protein, natural flavors, vegetable oil, monocalcium phosphate, fish oil, calcium carbonate, choline chloride, DL-methionine, salt, potassium chloride, vitamins , taurine, trace minerals , rosemary extract, preserved with mixed tocopherols and citric acid.
Calorie Content
This diet contains 3526 kilocalories of metabolizable energy per kilogram or 289 kilocalories ME per cup on an as fed basis .
- Guaranteed Analysis
A Boost In Mood & Metabolism
Nobody enjoys having an upset stomach or feeling itchy all day long! Neither do dogs. These chronic allergy symptoms really put a damper on their mood and even cause increased depression and anxiety. Plus, issues like diarrhea can have a profound effect on your dogs gut biome, which is linked to brain processes, including hormonal balancing and metabolism.
As your dog finds relief from digestive issues and incessant scratching, plus a healthy metabolism, you can bet theyll feel happier!
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Other Great Novel Protein Dog Foods
Better Hydration For Long Term Wellness
Water is the most important ingredient for a healthy life for your dog. Every bodily function requires water. Dogs with allergies often become victims of long-term dehydration from a loss of water and electrolytes due to diarrhea. This leads to a long list of health problems, including decreased organ and muscle function.
Through a novel protein diet, your dog can better maintain their hydration level along with the minerals that help the body better utilize water.
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Other Types Of Dog Diets:
Limited-ingredient dog food is not the only specialized diet that pet parents can feed their dogs to help them live their best life. Talk to your veterinarian about which diet might be the best fit for your four-legged friend.
1. Grain-Free Dog Food – Food absent from common grains like rice or wheat.
2. Natural Dog Food – Food made with only natural ingredients.
3. Dog Food for Sensitive Stomachs – Food designed to help pups with sensitive tummies.
4. Vet-Authorized Diets – diets that require vet authorization to purchase and are designed to help with specific issues and conditions.
Finding the right diet can be difficult when you dont know where to start. Always start with a conversation with your pets veterinarian to see if they might benefit from a limited-ingredient dog food diet.
Information in this article is not intended to diagnose, treat or cure your pet and is not a substitute for veterinary care provided by a licensed veterinarian. For any medical or health-related advice concerning the care and treatment of your pet, contact your veterinarian.