10 Best Dog Foods for Dry Itchy Skin

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What are the best dog foods for dry, itchy skin?

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Watching your dog scratch, bite, and slobber over an itchy spot to the point of bleeding is heart-breaking.

It is even worse when you do not know how to relieve your dog’s pain. Unlike humans, dogs cannot tell us how they are feeling; instead, they scratch continuously and may end up bleeding.

A bright coat and lustrous skin is every pet parent’s dream. However, itchiness may make this an unachievable dream. This is because frequent scratching causes lots of damage to both the skin and coat. 

Knowing what causes itchy skin is the first step to helping your dog. The main culprit is allergic reactions. These may result from food or the environment. Food allergies are easily solved with a change in diet. Avoiding the allergen is key. 

Dog foods for itchy skin reduce itchiness, moisturize, and nourish the skin. They are foods that have skin and coat-friendly attributes.

Hypoallergenic and limited ingredient formulas are best for skin and coat health. Hypoallergenic diets are mainly vet-prescribed but you can also purchase them online. However, getting such foods can be challenging. This is because there are many varieties to choose from and pet parents get more confused. 

We have made the selection process smooth and easy for you by reviewing various dog foods and coming up with the best 10 formulas. We also give you the attributes of the best dog foods for dry itchy skin and the breeds that are more exposed to dry itchy skin. 

What are the properties of the best dog foods for itchy skin?

Unlike regular foods, foods for itchy skin have unique properties. These attributes alleviate itchiness and restore the skin to its original radiance. Here are the key features to look out for when selecting the best formulas for dry itchy skin:

Limited ingredients formulas

They are best for dry itchy skin. This is because limited ingredient formulas include fewer ingredients, so you can easily identify the allergen. Identifying the allergen makes it easy to avoid it in the future. Fewer ingredients also minimize the risks of allergic reactions. 

Foods that are free from fillers and artificial additives are an excellent selection. Fillers, including corn, wheat, and soy proteins, are the main triggers of an allergic reaction. Artificial preservatives, including flavors, colors, or preservatives, are harmful to the skin. Reading the label carefully ensures you avoid such ingredients. 

High protein content

This is key when choosing the right foods for skin problems. Proteins provide amino acids, the building blocks of strong muscles; dogs need powerful muscles. Look for formulas with real meat as the leading ingredient. 

Meat meals are also great. However, real meat is preferable as it is highly digestible thus limiting the risks of allergies. Hydrolyzed and novel proteins are great. Hydrolyzed proteins are broken into small pieces that your dog’s digestive system will not recognize. Novel proteins include rabbit, bison, and kangaroo. They are excellent alternatives for dogs with chicken intolerance. 

Fat

It’s an essential component of the best dog foods for dry, itchy skin. Fats are excellent sources of omegas. Omega 3 and 6 fatty acids are vital for coat and skin health. They moisturize the skin and limit the risks of skin issues. Healthy fat sources include chicken fat, salmon oil, flaxseed, and canola oil. Animal-based fat sources are the best. Do not go overboard with fat as it is a recipe for obesity and pancreatitis. 

Complex carbohydrates

They are great for pups with dry, itchy skin. They provide energy for stamina and fiber to boost digestion. Excellent carbs include brown rice and pearled barley in grain-inclusive formulas and sweet potatoes and peas in grain-free diets. 

Antioxidant-dense formulas

They minimize the risk of inflammation and provide maximum immunity. Vitamin E is an excellent antioxidant. Look out for superfoods like blueberries and apples as they are antioxidant powerhouses. 

Choosing the right food with the right qualities is important as it limits the risks of further health problems, including obesity and digestive issues. A healthy dog means a life of bliss for both you and your fido. 

What causes itchy skin in dogs?

Many factors contribute to itchy skin. Here are the most common culprits:

  • Skin infections, including yeast and bacterial infections, can cause itching and discomfort, resulting in redness, greasiness, and a distinct smell. Folded areas, including the neck, ears, and skin are at a high risk of a yeast infection. Continuous scratching leads to a bacterial infection. 
  • Food allergies also cause itchiness. Common food allergens include dairy, chicken, beef, gluten, and wheat. Eliminating the specific allergen solves this problem. 
  • Environmental triggers including mold, dust mites, and pollen trigger itchiness. Environmental triggers can be seasonal or all-year-round. 
  • Flea bites cause extreme pain and a great desire to scratch. Common hiding places for fleas include the hind legs, rear end, and tail base. You may not see the fleas as they bite and fly. A single bite causes extreme pain and itchiness. 
  • Stress or anxiety can also cause scratching. However, this is temporary as it subsides after the anxiety is gone. A short walk or exercise limits the risk of stress and anxiety. Severe anxiety, however, may not stop with exercise and a visit to the vet may help.
  • Hormonal imbalances cause skin problems including itching and dry skin. A reduction in thyroid hormone causes itching. You will also notice a change in your dog’s skin color or texture.
  • Nutritional deficiencies are also to blame. Foods lacking important supplements including omega fatty acids, antioxidants, zinc, or copper cause skin issues. Medical problems that cause poor nutrient absorption also cause skin problems.

Urgent treatment is important to reduce the risk of your dog developing hot spots from frequent scratching. Hotspots are extremely painful. 

What are the common symptoms of skin problems?

Here are the symptoms to look out for:

  • Scratching and licking
  • Redness
  • Inflammation
  • Swelling or lumps
  • Bald patches
  • Scaly patches
  • Lesions or scabs
  • Rashes 
  • Hot spots

The symptoms may vary depending on the main cause of the problem. Besides switching your dog’s diet, it is best to consult the vet if you notice any of the above symptoms. 

Remedies to skin problems in dogs

Diet is key when solving skin problems in dogs. However, it is not the only solution to itchy and dry skin. The following are the other remedies:

  • Prescription steroids from vets may help with skin problems. However, they come with other side effects including frequent urination, excessive thirst, and unhealthy weight.
  • Over-the-counter drugs are also useful, but they should be used sparingly as they can worsen the problem.
  • Antihistamines also come in handy. You should, however, not use them frequently as they cause drowsiness, trembling, or panting. 

Always consult the vet before opting for a specific treatment method. The vet will examine your dog and can even perform a blood test. This helps determine the root cause of the problem and hence prescribe the right treatment. 

Which breeds are prone to skin problems?

Skin problems can affect any dog. However, some dog breeds are more exposed than others due to their genetic make-up. Here are 11 breeds that are susceptible to skin problems:

  • Chinese Shar-Pei
  • Scottish Terriers
  • Labrador Retrievers
  • Boston Terriers
  • Lhasa Apsos
  • Boxers
  • Dalmatians
  • Golden Retrievers
  • Wirehaired Fox Terriers
  • Shih Tzus
  • West Highland White Terriers.

Knowing the breeds predisposed to skin problems helps you make wise decisions when choosing the right food for your dog. You will want to purchase formulas with skin-friendly supplements and those that nourish the skin. 

What are the leading brands for the best dog foods for itchy skin?

The ever-increasing pet food manufacturers have made it hard to distinguish between honest and false claims that their foods are perfect for skin health. Most dog food labels include healthy ingredients and may end up confusing you. So, how can you avoid falling into false marketing traps? Here’s a list of the top 5 brands with the best formulas for dry itchy skin:

These brands offer the best nutrition for your dog’s skin and overall wellness. Prices, however, vary depending on the brand. The average price for our 8 dry formulas is $2.99 per lb, ranging from $2.14 to $4.00per lb for bags weighing 24-40 lbs. The average price for the 2 wet formulas is $3.21. Lifestage and breed are also key when choosing the right dog food for the skin.

Puppies need high-protein, high-fat foods while senior dogs need less fat as they are prone to obesity. Small dogs have unique nutritional and health needs compared to large dogs. Chihuahuas are prone to low blood sugar and hence need to eat frequently.

Frequent meals may not go well with larger dogs like the Great Dane as they can easily gain weight which causes mobility problems. Here is a quick summary of the top formulas for itchy skin:

Note: The prices in this article are as of 11th July 2022.

Let’s dive in 

Wellness Simple Turkey and Potato Limited Ingredient Diets Dry  Food 

Your dog deserves the best with Wellness Simple Limited Formula from Wellness. This formula has been on the market since March 17th, 2012. The meal features easily digestible real turkey for premium proteins and minimal risks of sensitivities and allergies. In addition, it uses fewer ingredients, making it easy to identify an allergen. 

The high amounts of omega-6 and 3 fatty acids from quality sources like flaxseed and canola oil nourish the skin and minimize the probability of itchiness. The high fiber and prebiotic levels also boost digestion for limited risks of sensitivities and allergies. It suits dogs with chicken intolerance and boosts immunity with vitamin E. 

Furthermore, this recipe has no corn, wheat, or artificial additives and is safe for skin health. The meal also has an additional benefit of high-calorie content to support stamina and keep your dog active throughout the day.

A slow transition prepares your dog’s digestive system for the new nutrient and limits the risks of allergies and sensitivities. Use a 5-7 day transition period starting with 25% of Wellness and increasing the amounts up to 100% during the 7th day. 

  • First 5 Ingredients: Deboned Turkey, Potatoes, Turkey Meal, Dried Ground Potatoes, Peas. 
  • Guaranteed Analysis: Crude Protein 26% min, Crude Fat 12% min, Crude Fiber 5.5% Max.
  • Calories: 430 kcal/cup
  • Suitable for which dogs: All breeds.
  • Feeding: Optimal feeding amounts may vary with your dog’s weight.
  • Key Benefit: Easily digestible carbohydrates and a single source protein to limit the risks of allergies. 
  • Price: $109.99 per 40-lb bag ($2.75-lb).  
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Taste of the Wild High Prairie Grain-Free Puppy Dry Food 

Massage your dog’s wild side with the Taste of the Wild Puppy Formula. The Taste of the Wild formulas mimics wild dog food to delight the inner wolf within your dog. Young puppies need a healthy foundation and a proper diet is key. Healthy skin during puppyhood is important as it dictates the future wellness of your dog’s skin.

Start puppy with this skin-friendly formula and save your money and time. This is because it will reduce the risks of skin issues during the adult and senior stages. This Taste of the Wild Puppy Formula is best for skin care. It includes selenium, omega 3 fatty acids, vitamin E, and omega 6 fatty acids which blend to support your puppy’s coat and skin health. 

DHA is great for puppies as it promotes proper brain development. It also increases focus and makes training easier. Training a puppy ensures they maintain discipline even when they are seniors. Probiotics, and high-quality fiber from premium ingredients, including chicory root, support immunity, and digestive health. Proper digestion and immunity lower the problems of skin allergies. 

  • First 5 Ingredients: Water Buffalo, Lamb Meal, Egg Product, Sweet Potatoes, Pea Protein. 
  • Guaranteed Analysis: Crude Protein 34% min, Crude Fat 15% min, Crude Fiber 5% Max.
  • Calories: 415 kcal/cup
  • Suitable for which dogs: All breeds.
  • Feeding: Optimal feeding amounts may vary with your dog’s weight.
  • Key Benefit: Water Buffalo is the leading ingredient for high-quality proteins to boost muscle power.
  • Price: $59.99 per 28-lb bag ($2.14-lb).  
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Canidae Pure Real Salmon and Sweet Potato Grain-Free Dry  Food 

This formula from Canidae Corporation is the perfect selection for dogs with dry, itchy skin. It includes skin-friendly ingredients like salmon, canola oil, and flaxseed. It also uses fewer ingredients.  Biotin is also among the ingredients for healthy skin and reduced frequencies of itching and dryness. This formula has been on the market since August 6th, 2013. 

Sweet potatoes and garbanzo beans are the best sources of dietary fiber for smooth digestion and reduced risks of tummy problems. They also provide energy for physical activities. The formula is free from grains and has no wheat, corn, gluten, or soy for minimal probabilities of allergies. 

Canidae Salmon & Sweet Potato formula supports immunity with optimal vitamin C and E levels. It boosts bone and joint wellness with glucosamine and chondroitin. Your dog’s heart will also benefit as this recipe includes taurine.

The blend of probiotics and antioxidants further promotes digestion and immune health. The feeding guidelines depend on your pup’s weight. However, you may adjust the amounts to suit your dog’s unique needs.  

  • First 5 Ingredients: Salmon, Menhaden Fish Meal, Salmon Meal, Lentils, Sweet Potatoes.
  • Guaranteed Analysis: Crude Protein 32% min, Crude Fat 14% min, Crude Fiber 4.5% Max.
  • Calories: 459 kcal/cup
  • Suitable for which dogs: All breeds.
  • Feeding: Optimal feeding amounts may vary with your dog’s activity levels and weight. 
  • Key Benefit: High levels of omega 6 and 3 fatty acids to moisturize the skin and minimize the risk of itchiness. 
  • Price: $74.99 per 24-lb bag ($3.12-lb).  
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Merrick Limited Ingredient Turkey and Rice Wet Dog Food

This limited ingredient Recipe from Merrick Pet Care is formulated specifically to help minimize allergies and sensitivities which can cause skin problems. The meal uses a single easily digestible protein source and is free from fillers and artificial additives. These characteristics make it the best solution for dry itchy skin. 

High digestibility ensures maximum absorption of essential nutrients for overall well-being. A tasty blend of wholesome grains, including brown rice and oatmeal, provides high-quality fiber for proper digestion and healthy weight. Real turkey is the leading ingredient for amino acids that promote the growth and development of thick muscles. Turkey also supports an ideal weight. 

The high fat and calorie content ensure your pup is actively engaged throughout the day. The moist texture improves flavor to delight your picky eater dog. After opening the can, cover and refrigerate any unused portions.

This retains freshness and ensures a longer shelf life thus saving you money. The feeding guidelines on the package depend on your dog’s weight. The amounts can be adjusted to meet the unique needs of every dog. 

  • First 5 Ingredients: Deboned Turkey, Turkey Broth, Turkey Liver, Brown Rice, Oatmeal.
  • Guaranteed Analysis: Crude Protein 8% min, Crude Fat 6% min, Crude Fiber 1.4% Max.
  • Calories: 402 kcal/can
  • Suitable for which dogs: All breeds.
  • Feeding: Optimal feeding amounts may vary with your dog’s poundage.
  • Key Benefit: High water content (78%) to moisturize the skin and limit the risk of itchiness.
  • Price: 44.16 per 12.7-oz can, case of 12 ($3.48-oz).  
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Natural Balance Limited Ingredient Dry Food 

Give your dog a naturally balanced formula with the Natural Balance Limited ingredient Diets by Natural Balance. Each bite boosts high-quality nutrition. Its first production date is September 9th, 2019. Real USA farm-raised chicken tops the ingredient list to support musculature. Brown rice is among the first 5 ingredients and provides healthy servings of fiber for a happy digestive system and minimal risks of obesity. 

The moderate fat and calorie contents supply energy for stamina and reduce the probability of unhealthy weight gain. Using fewer ingredients is great for the skin as it limits the risks of allergies and makes it easy to identify and avoid an allergen.

Chicken is the only protein source also to limit the frequency of allergies. Furthermore, the meal has no wheat, corn, soy, gluten, or artificial additives. It also includes omega 6 and 3 fatty acids. These components boost the overall skin well-being.

Safety and transparency are key and this company has a program called “Feed To Balance” that tests every batch of food so you can be 100% assured of its safety. 

  • First 5 Ingredients: Chicken, Chicken Meal, Brown Rice, Brewers Rice, Rice Bran.
  • Guaranteed Analysis: Crude Protein 23% min, Crude Fat 12% min, Crude Fiber 4.5% Max.
  • Calories: 322 kcal/cup
  • Suitable for which dogs: All breeds.
  • Feeding: Optimal feeding amounts may vary with weight.
  • Key Benefit: High levels of vitamin E promote immunity and minimize the risks of skin inflammation.
  • Price: $62.99 per 24-lb bag ($2.62-lb).  
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Zignature Turkey Formula Limited Ingredient Wet Dog Food for Itchy Skin

All Zignature recipes are crafted with your allergic dog’s needs in mind. And this turkey formula is no exception. It has an initial production date of March 8th, 2015, and is the best choice for coat and skin care. This recipe contains only one protein source and a few other ingredients to reduce the negative effects on your dog’s skin. 

The moisture content of 78% supports skin health and digestion. It also detoxifies the body for a brilliant coat and lustrous skin. Biotin is also important for skin care. This wet formula is crafted with wholesome veggies and fruits for powerful antioxidants that boost immunity and prevent inflammation. 

Zignature Turkey Formula is devoid of common allergens like wheat, corn, soy, chicken, or dairy, proving it’s the best selection for allergies. The meal is low in saturated fat and rich in phosphorus and selenium for a healthy weight, strong bones, and protection against free radicals that cause oxidative damage.

Moreover, it uses low-glycemic carbs and is heart-friendly with taurine and L-carnitine. Serve according to your dog’s weight. 

  • First 5 Ingredients: Turkey, Turkey Broth, Turkey Liver, Peas, Turkey Meal. 
  • Guaranteed Analysis: Crude Protein 11.5% min, Crude Fat 5% min, Crude Fiber 1.2% Max.
  • Calories: 397 kcal/can
  • Suitable for which dogs: All breeds.
  • Feeding: Optimal feeding amounts may vary with your dog’s weight.
  • Key Benefit: Turkey is the leading ingredient for high-value proteins to fuel your dog’s muscles. 
  • Price: $38.28 per 13-oz can, case of 12 ($2.94-oz).  
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Brothers Complete Formula Turkey Meal & Egg Advanced Allergy Dry Food 

Crafted specifically for allergies, this meal by Brothers Complete Dog Food is the best choice for your dog’s skin. It features real turkey and uses low-glycemic carbs from cassava roots. Your dog’s muscles will benefit more as this formula includes eggs. Eggs contain 9 amino acids that the body cannot produce. 

The food is also packed with digestive enzymes that increase nutrient absorption, break down food, promote immunity, and lower the probability of allergic reactions. The high probiotics and prebiotics are great for the gut, bowel, and immune well-being. It includes no artificial preservatives. On the contrary, this formula is naturally preserved with mixed tocopherols. 

It is also free from wheat, corn, soy, or grain, making it the perfect meal for skin and coat care. Chicken fat and ground flaxseed further support the skin, while pumpkin and peas provide fiber for smooth digestion and minimal risk of obesity. Vitamins C and E promote immunity while calcium and phosphorus ensure your dog’s bones and muscles remain strong. 

  • First 5 Ingredients: Turkey Meal, Whole Eggs Dried, Pea Starch, Cassava/Tapioca, Peas.
  • Guaranteed Analysis: Crude Protein 34% min, Crude Fat 16% min, Crude Fiber 4% Max. 
  • Calories: 415 kcal/cup
  • Suitable for which dogs: All breeds.
  • Feeding: Optimal feeding amounts may vary with your dog’s age, activity levels, and weight. 
  • Key Benefit: High levels of DHA for cognitive wellness and improved trainability. 
  • Price: $95.90 per 25-lb bag ($3.84lb).  
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Wellness CORE Deboned Turkey, Turkey Meal & Chicken Meal Recipe Grain-Free Original Dry Food 

This protein-rich formula by Wellness perfectly suits your dog’s skin, featuring real turkey as the number one ingredient. It includes omega 3 fatty acids, vitamin A, omega 6 fatty acids, and vitamin E that work together to give your dog a brilliant coat and smooth skin. 

Antioxidants, probiotics, and taurine contribute to a healthy coat and skin. Antioxidants prevent inflammation while probiotics support bowel and gut health. A healthy digestive system means minimal allergies risk contributing to skin problems. Taurine keeps the heart strong and a healthy heart means overall wellness.

Safety is top-notch as this meal is crafted in the United States using high-quality and wholesome ingredients. It has no corn, wheat, soy, grain, or gluten making it the perfect selection for skin allergies and stomach sensitivities.

For maximum benefits, mix with wet foods. This raises the moisture content to moisturize the skin. Transition your dog slowly to reduce the risk of negative reactions. Such negative reactions include allergies which can present in the form of itchiness thus affecting the skin. A 5-7 days transition period is okay. 

  • First 5 Ingredients: Deboned Turkey, Chicken Meal, Turkey Meal, Peas, Dried Ground Potatoes.
  • Guaranteed Analysis: Crude Protein 34% min, Crude Fat 16% min, Crude Fiber 4% Max.
  • Calories: 417 kcal/cup
  • Suitable for which dogs: All breeds.
  • Feeding: Optimal feeding amounts may vary with your dog’s weight.
  • Key Benefit: Optimal levels of chondroitin and glucosamine for strong joints and thick bones.
  • Price: $74.99 per 26-lb bag ($2.88-lb).  
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Brothers Complete Lamb and Egg Itchy Skin Dog Food Recipe Dry Dog Food

Brothers Dog Food offers complete nutrition for your dog. This formula has been on the market since September 1st, 2014, and it is an excellent selection for skin health. Lamb is the best alternative, especially for dogs with chicken intolerance. It provides premium proteins for powerful muscles and thick bones. 

This unique formula includes encapsulated probiotics and digestive enzymes for gut wellness, maximum absorption of nutrients, converting foods into useful energy, minimizing allergies, and promoting immunity.

All of these contribute to healthy skin for reduced skin and coat issues. Natural preservation ensures the food remains fresh for longer and lowers the risk of sensitivities and allergic reactions resulting from artificial additives. 

You will not find grains or white potatoes in this meal. Additionally, no fillers like wheat and corn make this diet the best for skin allergies. Vitamins C and E blend with other antioxidants to enhance immunity and prevent cellular damage. Taurine, phosphorus, and calcium are great for cardiac, bone, tooth, and muscle wellness. Inulin supports digestion.

  • First 5 Ingredients: Lamb Meal, Dried Whole Eggs, Turkey Meal, Cassava/Tapioca, Pea Flour. 
  • Guaranteed Analysis: Crude Protein 30% min, Crude Fat 15% min, Crude Fiber 4% Max.
  • Calories: 400 kcal/cup
  • Suitable for which dogs: All breeds.
  • Feeding: Optimal feeding amounts may vary with your dog’s weight.
  • Key Benefit: High levels of omega 6 and 3 fatty acids for smooth skin and bright coat and minimal risks of shedding and itchiness.
  • Price: $100.07 per 25-lb bag ($4.00-lb).  
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Taste of the Wild Prey Angus Beef Limited Ingredient Dry Food 

Quality and Diamond Pet Foods, Inc go hand in hand. The company formulates premium recipes that boost your dog’s overall well-being. Their meals are crafted specifically to awaken the inner wolf within your dog. Give your dog a bite and it will come for more and more. This specific recipe features real beef for your dog’s musculature. Its initial production date is January 8th, 2019. 

It combines skin-friendly ingredients including chicken fat, salmon oil, and biotin in a single bite. So consuming a whole bowl would add loads of benefits for your dog’s skin and coat health. Using fewer ingredients adds to the taste and minimizes the risks of allergies. They also make it easier to pinpoint an allergen and avoid it in your dog’s diet. 

Picky eater dogs will consume the whole bowl as this meal includes an added savory seasoning. Probiotics, selenium, and vitamin E are best for digestive and immune health while taurine and L-carnitine are wonderful for cardiac wellness. The benefits go further to include DHA for improved memory and concentration. 

  • First 5 Ingredients: Beef, Lentils, Tomato Pomace, Chicken Fat, Natural Flavor.
  • Guaranteed Analysis: Crude Protein 27% min, Crude Fat 15% min, Crude Fiber 5% Max.
  • Calories: 412 kcal/cup
  • Suitable for which dogs: All breeds.
  • Feeding: Optimal feeding amounts may vary with your dog’s age and weight.
  • Key Benefit: Vitamin A blends with omega 3 and 6 fatty acids for nourished skin and a healthy coat.
  • Price: $65.99 per 25-lb bag ($2.64-lb).  
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What are the facts that you should know about dog foods for itchy skin?

Selecting the right dog food for dry and itchy skin is the first step to solving skin-related problems. High–quality dog food with premium ingredients is best for skin allergies. Here are other important facts about the best dog foods for dry itchy skin:

  • Foods specific to a given life stage should be given to dogs in that life stage. For example, having a puppy with skin issues does not mean you rush to any dog food with skin-friendly ingredients. Puppies have unique health and nutritional needs. However, foods that cater to all life stages may be consumed by both young and old dogs.
  • Omega 3 and 6 fatty acids play a vital role in skin health. Consuming foods with these twin omegas limits the risk of skin allergies and itchiness. Animal-based fat sources, including salmon oil and chicken fat are the best. However, plant-based sources like flaxseed and canola oil also do the trick.
  • Proteins from real and recognizable sources are also important for dogs with dry itchy skin. They give dogs strong muscles. The ingredient list is given according to the percentage of an ingredient in the meal. So ensure real meat is the leading ingredient. 
  • Real fruits and veggies are excellent sources of vitamins, minerals, antioxidants, and dietary fiber. Vitamins like vitamin C and E are great for immunity while vitamin A boosts skin and vision wellness. Antioxidants prevent oxidative damage while dietary fiber is best for digestive health and a healthy weight. Complex carbs are also powerful sources of dietary fiber and energy. 

What are the best foods for itchy skin according to dog sizes? 

Best Foods for Small Dogs with Itchy Skin

Best  Foods for Medium and Large Dogs with Dry Itchy Skin

  • Fromm Family Foods Gold Nutritionals 727520 Adult Dry Food suits both medium and large dogs with the high protein content from real chicken. Chicken fat, flaxseed, and salmon oil provide omegas to soothe the skin. Dietary fiber from oat groats, pearled barley, and brown rice is best for proper digestion.

What are the best foods for itchy skin with different ingredients? 

The ingredients in any dog food are critical as they dictate the nutritional components of the food. High-quality ingredients mean increased nutritional and health benefits for your dog. Premium ingredients may come with a high price but are worth your money.

Best Foods with Pumpkin for Dry Itchy Skin

Best Foods with Glucosamine for Dry Itchy Skin

What are the other dog foods for different health conditions similar to itchy skin? 

Best  Foods for Pancreatic Dogs

Pancreatitis is the inflammation of the pancreas. Pancreatic dogs need a low-fat formula to prevent overworking the pancreas. 

Best Foods for Pups with Sensitive Stomachs

Dogs with sensitive tummies need a limited ingredient meal devoid of common allergens, and Diamond Care Grain-Free Sensitive Stomach Adult Dry Food is the right choice. It uses a single easily digestible protein from eggs, fewer ingredients, and has no corn, wheat, soy, or artificial additives.

What are the best foods for different dog breeds with itchy skin? 

Best Foods for French Bulldogs with Itchy Skin

Frenchies have low-maintenance needs when it comes to coat and skin care. However, they can experience itchiness and a good diet comes in handy.

Best Foods for Huskies with Itchy Skin

Huskies are not prone to skin problems. However, they can develop itchiness at any stage of their lives. Formulas that support skin and coat health are key. Huskies are working dogs and hence need a calorie-dense diet.

  • Orijen Grain-Free Puppy Formula suits young Huskies with itchy skin. The high levels of omega-6 and 3 fatty acids blend with powerful antioxidants to minimize the risk of itchiness. Each cup has 475 calories to support physical activity. 
  • Acana Grain-Free Wild Atlantic Dry Food is great for adult Huskies with skin itchiness. It has calcium, phosphorus, chondroitin, and glucosamine for healthy bones and joints. In addition, the twin omegas, DHA, and EPA, support the skin and brain while improving mobility. 

Best Foods for Labradors with Itchy Skin

Labs are predisposed to skin problems. This stems from the fact that Lab’s immune system produces Immunoglobulin E; an allergic antibody that triggers allergic reactions. These breeds, therefore, need a healthy diet that supports the skin. 

  • Canidae Chicken, Turkey, & Lamb All Life Stages Dry Food is not only rich in protein, but also includes skin-friendly ingredients like chicken fat, flaxseed, and salmon oil. The meal is also packed with vitamins C and E for immunity and the prevention of oxidative damage. 
  • Nutro Ultra Adult Dry Food is also perfect for your Lab’s skin. It features whole flaxseed and chicken fat for omega fatty acids. In addition, the high content of vitamin E and selenium prevents skin inflammation. 

Best Foods for Dachshunds with Itchy Skin

Genetics, food allergies, and environmental factors can cause skin problems in your Dachshund. Consuming omega-rich foods help with skin issues. 

  • Dr. Tim’s Kinesis All Life Stages Dry Food is great for skin care as it includes omega-3 fatty acids from fish oils. It is also rich in DHA and EPA for brain health and mobility. Vitamins C and E blend with selenium to boost immunity. 
  • Another superb formula for Dachshunds with itchy skin is Castor & Pollux Organix Small Breed Grain-Free Dry Food. This recipe features real chicken for proteins and organic flaxseed for skin well-being. It includes no corn, grains, wheat, or soy making it a magnificent selection for the skin. 

Best Foods for Shih Tzus with Itchy Skin

Shih Tzus are susceptible to skin problems. Skin allergies can affect different parts of your dog’s body. But the eyes, feet, muzzle, underside, and paws are the most affected areas in Shih Tzus. Atopic dermatitis affects the face, ears, joints, and belly. 

Best Foods for Yorkies with Itchy Skin

Yorkies have sensitive skin that exposes them to skin problems, including itching. They are also susceptible to allergies. Dust, pollen, fleas, and molds are the common allergens in Yorkies. A balanced recipe with ingredients that benefit the skin helps with skin issues in  Yorkies. Such foods include

Best Foods for German Shepherds with Itchy Skin

German Shepherds are predisposed to skin allergies which cause itchiness. Scratching, frequent head shaking, hair loss, and smelly skin are some of the symptoms of allergic reaction in your German Shepherd. Specific foods including 

Our Verdict 

Having a dog with dry, itchy skin is not a death sentence. You and your canine furry baby can live a happy life even with skin issues. Selecting the right formulas is the starting point. Foods with certain ingredients or supplements help when dealing with a dog with dry itchy skin.

Our top foods, including our best overall formula Wellness Simple Limited Ingredient Diet Turkey and Potato Dry Food include all the properties of the best dog food for dry, itchy skin. Introduce it slowly and gradually move to the other recipes. Consulting the vet before trying any new food on your dog is key. It minimizes the risks of allergic reactions, tummy issues, and sensitivities which are costly in the long run.

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