Less Common Proteins for Dogs With Food Sensitivities

Some dogs react to common proteins such as chicken and beef. Signs can include itchy skin and an upset stomach. A less common protein is one thing owners try. Talk to your veterinarian first, so they can help find the cause.

This guide explains what a less common protein diet is and how to switch to one safely.

What Is a Less Common Protein Diet?

A less common protein diet uses protein sources your dog has not eaten before. Chicken, beef and dairy are common triggers, so some owners choose a different protein.

Less common proteins include:

• Wild boar
• Kangaroo
• Venison
• Rabbit
• Duck

Check the full ingredient list of any food you choose. Our rabbit recipe has pork heart and liver. Our kangaroo recipe has lamb heart, lung and liver.

Why Dogs React to Food

A food allergy happens when a dog’s immune system reacts to a protein. Your veterinarian can help work out what is behind your dog’s symptoms.

Signs owners ask about include:

• Itchy skin
• Recurring skin irritation
• Diarrhea or vomiting
• Frequent ear infections
• Weight loss

What Owners Try

Many pet parents notice a difference in coat or stools when they change food. Every dog is different, and no food is right for every dog.

Switching to a Less Common Protein

Switch gradually to avoid an upset stomach. Our Feeding Guide has the full 10-day plan:

• Days 1 to 3: 25% new food
• Days 4 to 6: 50% new food
• Days 7 to 9: 75% new food
• Day 10: 100% new food
• Sensitive stomach? Make each step a day longer. Reach 100% by day 13.

Watch your dog during the switch. If stools go soft, go back to the last mix that suited your dog, and stay there a few more days. Call your veterinarian for diarrhea that lasts more than a day, blood or black stools, or repeated vomiting.

Choosing a Food

When you choose a food, read the full ingredient list and look for:

• Whole-food ingredients, such as vegetables
• A protein your dog has not eaten before
• No fillers or artificial additives

Our rabbit and kangaroo recipes are less common proteins. Check each recipe’s full ingredient list.

Final Thoughts

A less common protein is one thing owners try for dogs with sensitive stomachs. It won’t suit every dog. Work with your veterinarian.

Ready to start? Read our Feeding Guide, or contact us. We’ll suggest a recipe to start with and how much to feed.