What Are the Best Legume-Free Dog Foods (2023)

Here is our review of the best legume-free dog foods.

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Shopping for dog food might be challenging if you have a dog who is allergic or sensitive to popular ingredients like legumes.  Although adding legumes to your dog’s diet has advantages, there are several reasons you would want to avoid doing so.

Most pups develop allergies with time. The FDA has also linked legumes to cardiac problems in the ongoing investigation. This makes formulations devoid of legumes excellent choices. But where do you even begin? Most pet parents think the process is easy as it involves looking for grain-free recipes.

But this is not at all the case. Legumes are a component of certain grain-inclusive recipes. As a result, the selection procedure becomes challenging. Your search for the best formulas for your sensitive pup is made more challenging by numerous dog food companies claiming to be the best brands free of legumes. Additionally, choosing the wrong food makes the issue worse. It makes your dog susceptible to allergies, obesity, and other health problems.

Our thorough investigation makes it simple for you. We have compiled the best 10 legume-free formulas, so your job is to purchase them. We also tell you what qualities to look for when choosing the best dog food free of legumes. This guarantees you can buy other formulations that aren’t on our list. Let’s start.

What Are the Common Types of Legumes?

Legumes are a common element in dog diets because they add fiber and carbohydrates without increasing the cost of production. Additionally, some recipes use legumes as thickeners or pea protein to replace the animal protein in the formula.

Although they have their negative side, legumes can benefit your dog. Legumes often contain high levels of protein, fiber, and carbs. Additionally, many pulses—like peas and lentils—contain antioxidants, minerals, and vitamins. 

Therefore, many dogs can safely and healthily consume tiny amounts of legumes. These ingredients can help decrease blood pressure and be nutrient-dense and an excellent source of resistant starch. Here are the common types of legumes:

• Soybeans.
• Green and string beans.
• Chickpeas.
• Lentils.
• Peas.

Dogs that cannot tolerate legumes require a legume-free formula. Some dogs are also allergic to grains and need formulas with no common allergens. 

Legumes Alternatives 

Going for legume-free dog food means selecting recipes that use healthy legume alternatives. These would offer complete and balanced nutrition for your furry canine friend. Below are the best alternatives to go for.

Whole grains

They are rich in fiber, digestible carbs, minerals, and antioxidants. Examples of high-quality whole grains are brown rice, oats, millet, and pearled barley. Grain-free formulas are, however, devoid of these ingredients. 

Tapioca

Though not popular, tapioca contains other important nutrients and complex carbs. It also works well as a binding agent.

Sweet potatoes

Another food rich in fiber and other necessary nutrients is sweet potatoes. Antioxidants, vitamins A, B, and C, as well as the minerals potassium and calcium, are all present in them. Antioxidants support immune wellness, while vitamin A, calcium, and phosphorus promote vision, skin, and bone wellness. 

White potatoes have less nutritional value than sweet potatoes, although being less expensive. White potatoes may contribute to blood sugar issues and obesity since they have a higher carbohydrate content. However, since sweet potatoes also contain a lot of carbs, limit their addition to your dog’s diet.

Pumpkin

This is another high-fiber vegetable that is easy on the digestive tract. This orange vegetable is nourishing and high in vitamins A and C. However, it doesn’t have quite as many carbs as potatoes.

There are many different kinds of pumpkins; some are used primarily for baking, while others are best for carving due to their size, shape, and color. However, both pumpkin varieties are rich in fiber and beneficial nutrients your dog can consume.

Although pumpkins can be eaten uncooked by dogs, they may be difficult to digest and pose a choking risk. The rind can potentially suffocate your dog and obstruct its intestines.

Squash

For example, butternut and acorn squash are abundant in fiber and carbs. They are abundant suppliers of antioxidants, vitamins A and C, and minerals, just like pumpkins. Squash for dogs’ health also offers the following advantages:

• Hydration of the skin. 
• Better digestion.
• A robust, lustrous coat. 
• Better kidney, muscle, and nerve functioning. 

These ingredients are healthy for pups. Look out for them when buying legume-free formulas. 

Features of the Best legume-Free Dog Food?

The choosing procedure is challenging because many formulae are available in the pet food sector, as previously indicated. It is crucial to comprehend the major characteristics to look out for when reading the label. These are the principal ones:

Protein source as the leading ingredient

Dogs are carnivorous in nature and require meals that mimic wild dog food. Meat massages your dog’s instincts. Proteins are also great for muscle wellness. Read the label carefully to determine whether the meat is real and recognizable. 

This is important because some meats could be from diseased or dead animals, thus exposing your pooch to other health issues. 

Plant-based proteins are okay, but they do not provide sufficient proteins. They should, therefore, not be the leading ingredients. Common high-quality protein sources that should top the ingredient list include chicken, turkey, salmon, beef, or novel proteins like rabbit and kangaroo. The leading ingredient has a high percentage in any dog food. 

Suits your dog’s life stage

Dogs have different health and nutritional needs at every life stage. Puppies are highly active and require meals rich in calories, fats, and proteins. On the other hand, senior dogs are less active, and their calorie and fat requirements are lower. 

Such dogs are also predisposed to joint issues, and their meal must include joint-friendly supplements like chondroitin and glucosamine. Although all dogs require DHA, puppies need them more. This is because DHA is crucial for brain development. 

Highly digestible carbs

Carbohydrates’ primary role in an animal’s diet is to give it sufficient energy. Dogs can break down some carbohydrate sources into simple sugars that can be quickly absorbed. Additionally, carbohydrates provide the dry kibble its shape and texture, making it easy to chew and shelf stable. 

Furthermore, carbs are excellent fiber sources. Although fiber is not a nutrient that dogs must have, it is nonetheless found in most dog foods because it keeps dogs full, promotes colon health, aids digestion, and even helps diabetic dogs manage their blood sugar levels.

Highly digestible carbs like pumpkin lower the chances of allergic reactions and tummy problems. 

Provides complete and balanced nutrition

Go for formulas that include healthy nutrients to support your dog’s health and nutritional well-being. Look for the AAFCO statement indicating that the food meets the requirements to offer complete and balanced nutrition. 

Includes healthy nutrients and supplements

Recipes with healthy nutrients ensure proper growth and development. Such nutrients and supplements include omegas for coat and skin health, probiotics and prebiotics for gastrointestinal wellness, antioxidants for immune health and a healthy oxidative environment, and glucosamine to support hip and joint functions. 

Zero fillers and artificial additives

Fillers like corn and soy have no nutritional benefits and only add bulk to your dog’s food. They are common allergens and hence expose your pup to further health complications. Artificial additives, including preservatives, flavors, and colors, are also harmful. Go for formulas crafted with wholesome and natural ingredients. 

What Are the Top Legume-Free Dog Food Brands?

It is difficult to find brands that satisfy the aforementioned criteria. But the greatest manufacturers provide recipes that follow these guidelines. These brands consist of

• Merrick
• Rachel Ray Nutrish
• Holistic Select
• Natural Balance
• Blue Buffalo 

Prices vary with brands. The average price for our ten brands is $5.15, ranging from $1.43-21.99 per lb for dry foods. The average price for the two canned formulas is $3.25 per oz. Here’s our quick summary of the best legume-free formulas:

• Best Overall:  Merrick Classic Healthy Grains Puppy Recipe Dry Food – $47.98 per 12-lb bag ($3.99-lb).

• Best Budget-Friendly: Rachael Ray Nutrish Just 6 Limited Ingredient Dry Food – $39.99 per 28-lb bag ($1.43-lb).

• Best for Large and Giant Dogs:  Holistic Select Large & Giant Breed Adult Health Dry Food – $77.99 per 30-lb bag ($2.59-lb).

• Best for Allergies: Natural Balance Limited Ingredient Diet Salmon Formula Dry Food – $47.98 per 12-lb bag ($3.99-lb).

• Best Canned:  Blue Buffalo Wilderness Beef & Chicken Canned Dog Food – $39.00 per 12.5-oz can, case of 12 ($3.12-oz).

Please Note that these prices are as of 11th February 2023. Let’s look at our extensive review.

Merrick Classic Healthy Grains Puppy Recipe Dry Food

Start off your puppy with this high-quality meal from Merrick Pet Care. This puppy formula is available in 4 and 12-lb bags. It uses healthy grains and features real deboned chicken as the top ingredient. The recipe has been on the market since January 14th, 2016. 

Chicken is a superb protein source for healthy muscles, while healthy grains like quinoa support the digestive system. High quantities of DHA, glucosamine, chondroitin and omega fatty acids are used in the formulation. 

While DHA, chondroitin, and glucosamine are excellent for the brain, vision, and joint health, omegas support coat and skin health. This meal may not be right for dogs with grain allergies and those that cannot tolerate chicken. 

• First 5 Ingredients: Deboned Chicken, Chicken Meal, Brown Rice, Barley, Oatmeal.

• Guaranteed Analysis: Crude Protein 28% min, Crude Fat 16% min, Crude Fiber 3.5% Max.

• Calorie Content: 406 kcal/cup.

• Suitable for which dogs: All breeds.

• Feeding: Optimal feeding amounts may vary depending on your dog’s age and weight.

• Key Benefit: High levels of omegas, DHA, chondroitin, and glucosamine to support coat, skin, brain, vision, and joint functions.  

• Price: $47.98 per 12-lb bag ($3.99-lb).

Rachael Ray Nutrish Just 6 Limited Ingredient Dry Food 

This is the best value-for-the-money legume-free formula from The J.M. Smucker Co. It is a limited-ingredient formula with only 6 ingredients. Consuming it, therefore, reduces the chances of allergies and sensitivities. The meal has been on the market since March 1st, 2013.

Brown rice is an excellent alternative to legumes. They provide fiber and energy for your furry companion. The meal has no fillers or artificial additives to lower tummy problem frequency. 

Including taurine ensures your dog’s heart stays strong, while increased omegas reduce skin irritations and dull coats. Calcium and phosphorus are great for strong bones. Thanks to antioxidants like vitamin E, your dog’s immune system will also benefit. 

• First 5 Ingredients: Lamb Meal, Brown Rice, Brewers Rice, Dried Beet Pulp, Chicken Fat.

• Guaranteed Analysis: Crude Protein 20% min, Crude Fat 13% min, Crude Fiber 4% Max.

• Calorie Content: 325 kcal/cup.

• Suitable for which dogs: All breeds.

• Feeding: Optimal feeding amounts may vary depending on your dog’s weight.

• Key Benefit: Uses fewer ingredients to reduce the risk of allergies and sensitivities. 

• Price: $39.99 per 28-lb bag ($1.43-lb).

Holistic Select Adult Health Giant & Large Breed Dry Food

Your Great Dane requires a high-quality recipe that offers complete and balanced nutrition, and this meal from Holistic Select is the perfect selection. It has several components that promote the overall digestive health of your dog. The formula has been on the market since October 2nd, 2001.

High omega levels aid your dog’s skin and coat health, and antioxidants, glucosamine, probiotics, and taurine support heart health. The meal is tasty, so your picky eater won’t give you problems. L-carnitine supports a healthy weight. 

Large and giant dogs are susceptible to joint problems, and this recipe includes chondroitin and glucosamine that lower the chances of joint inflammation. It also includes calcium and phosphorus for bone and joint health. Pups with grain allergies may not benefit from this grain-inclusive meal. 

• First 5 Ingredients: Chicken Meal, Oatmeal, Rice, Chicken Fat, Oats.

• Guaranteed Analysis: Crude Protein 24% min, Crude Fat 13% min, Crude Fiber 4% Max.

• Calorie Content: 453 kcal/cup.

• Suitable for which dogs: Large and giant breeds. 

• Feeding: Optimal feeding amounts may vary depending on your dog’s weight.

• Key Benefit: Contains chondroitin and glucosamine for joint wellness in large and giant dogs. 

• Price: $77.99 per 30-lb bag ($2.59-lb).

Natural Balance Limited Ingredient Diet Salmon Formula Dry  Food

Allergies and sensitivities devastate your dog’s body. Additionally, they make it challenging to get the ideal mixture for your dog. The Natural Balance Salmon Formula is our go-to recipe for allergies. Since March 9th, 2020, the meal has been available on the market.

The first ingredient in this dish is salmon, which provides the necessary protein and amino acids to maintain strong muscles. Sweet potatoes provide a grain-free source of fiber for gastrointestinal health.

The formula has a short ingredient list, with salmon being the only protein source. There are zero grains, soy, gluten, or artificial ingredients. 

• First 5 Ingredients: Salmon, Menhaden Fish Meal, Sweet Potatoes, Tapioca Starch, Potatoes.

• Guaranteed Analysis: Crude Protein 24% min, Crude Fat 10% min, Crude Fiber 4.5% Max.

• Calorie Content: 373 kcal/cup.

• Suitable for which dogs: All breeds.

• Feeding: Optimal feeding amounts may vary depending on your dog’s breed, temperature, age, climate, and weight.

• Key Benefit: The first ingredient is salmon, which provides the necessary protein and amino acids to maintain strong muscles.

• Price: $47.98 per 12-lb bag ($3.99-lb).

Blue Buffalo Wilderness Beef & Chicken Canned Dog Food

Your dog’s ancestors’ nutrition inspires this meal from the Blue Buffalo Company. It is crafted to awaken the wolf within, making it a great legume-free canned meal. It is rich in protein and has a high moisture content. The initial manufacturing date is June 3rd, 2010.

The high protein in this moist chow comes from beef, chicken, and chicken liver. Chicken liver is also rich in vitamin A. This vitamin supports the vision and eye health of your dog.

The recipe uses potatoes as alternatives to legumes. These potatoes provide highly digestible carbs for energy and digestion. It may not suit dogs with cardiac problems since Potatoes have been linked to heart issues. 

• First 5 Ingredients: Beef, Chicken, Chicken Broth, Chicken Liver, and Potatoes.

• Guaranteed Analysis: Crude Protein 10% min, Crude Fat 9% min, Crude Fiber 1.5% Max.

• Calorie Content: 523 kcal/can.

• Suitable for which dogs: All breeds.

• Feeding: Optimal feeding amounts may vary depending on your dog’s poundage.

• Key Benefit: Beef, chicken, and chicken liver are the main ingredients for amino acids that boost muscle health.

• Price: $39.00 per 12.5-oz can, case of 12 ($3.12-oz).

Victor Classic Hi-Pro Plus Dry Food

Very active dogs need a diet that can supply them with the energy they require. For energetic breeds of all ages, this legume-free recipe from Mid America Pet Food LLC is designed to provide the nutrition they require to maintain their activity levels. The formula has been on the market since  April 27th, 2013. 

It offers a healthy, balanced meal by supplying protein from real meat and vegetables high in nutrients. The VPRO Blend of vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants supports immune and digestive health.

Available in 5,15, 40, and 50 lb bags, this high-quality meal suits all life stages, so you do not need to switch to new formulas wherever your pup enters a new stage. There are no gluten, fillers, or artificial ingredients. 

• First 5 Ingredients: Beef Meal, Grain Sorghum, Chicken Fat, Pork Meal, Chicken Meal. 

• Guaranteed Analysis: Crude Protein 30% min, Crude Fat 20% min, Crude Fiber 3.8% Max.

• Calorie Content: 406 kcal/cup.

• Suitable for which dogs: All breeds.

• Feeding: Optimal feeding amounts may vary depending on your dog’s weight.

• Key Benefit: High antioxidant levels for the immune system. 

• Price: $80.99 per 50-lb bag ($1.62-lb).

Farmina N&D Ocean Codfish & Orange Ancestral Grain Medium & Maxi Adult Dry Food

Every Farmina product is produced with premium ingredients proportionately high in protein, fat, and high-quality vitamins and minerals. This formula is no exception. Packed with 30% protein and 18% fat, this recipe delivers complete and balanced nutrition for your sensitive pup.

Cod tops the ingredient list. Codfish is a great source of protein because it is both high in protein and low in fat.  Besides being rich in vitamins and minerals, cod also contains Omega-3 fatty acids that support the health of the immune, endocrine, and cardiovascular systems.

This recipe also boosts brain, bone, and joint well-being thanks to the high levels of DHA, calcium, phosphorus, chondroitin, and glucosamine. This low-glycemic formula has no fillers or artificial additives. It is, however, grain-inclusive and may not be best for dogs with grain allergies. 

• First 5 Ingredients: Cod, Dehydrated Cod, Herring Oil, Whole Spelt, Whole Oats.

• Guaranteed Analysis: Crude Protein 30% min, Crude Fat 18% min, Crude Fiber 2.9% Max.

• Calorie Content: 400 kcal/cup.

• Suitable for which dogs: All breeds.

• Feeding: Optimal feeding amounts may vary depending on your dog’s weight.

• Key Benefit: Increased protein content, calcium, phosphorus, chondroitin, and glucosamine for muscle, bone, and joint wellness. 

• Price: $94.90 per 26.5-lb bag ($3.58-lb).

Health Extension Original Chicken & Rice Recipe Dry Food

This legume-free formula from Health Extension is the best selection if your pup is allergic to beans, peas, and other legumes. It is produced with organic chicken and natural ingredients, including brown rice, flaxseed, oatmeal, and lamb, to give a balanced diet and support general health for puppies and older dogs. It has been on the market since June 7th, 2012. 

This product, made in the USA, has easily absorbed grains and digestible proteins. The top proteins for dogs with delicate digestive systems include chicken, lamb, and fish.

Oatmeal and brown rice have fiber, making stools firmer and simple to digest. Another wonderful source of soluble fiber to support your friend’s regularity is the beet pulp in the mix.

• First 5 Ingredients: Organic Chicken, Ground Brown Rice, Chicken Meal, Chicken Fat,  Oatmeal.

• Guaranteed Analysis: Crude Protein 24% min, Crude Fat 18% min, Crude Fiber 4% Max.

• Calorie Content: 418 kcal/cup.

• Suitable for which dogs: All breeds.

• Feeding: Optimal feeding amounts may vary depending on your dog’s activity level, age, and environment. 

• Key Benefit: Real chicken is the main ingredient for thick and powerful muscles. 

• Price: $59.98 per 30-lb bag ($1.99-lb).

ZiwiPeak Venison Grain-Free Air-Dried Dog Food

This high-quality meal from ZiwiPeak features venison as the main and only protein source. Venison is a rich source of B vitamins and minerals like zinc, phosphorus, and iron. Many dogs enjoy its flavor, which supports healthy energy levels in dogs. The initial manufacturing date is May 23rd, 2009.

Venison-based pet foods are a good alternative to other protein sources like beef or chicken for canines with food sensitivities or allergies. There are no added carbs or fillers, making it a great option for allergies and sensitivities. 

Dog breeds susceptible to joint problems will also benefit from this recipe thanks to the increased chondroitin and glucosamine levels. The formula also includes taurine for proper heart health. This recipe is expensive but worth its value. 

• First 5 Ingredients: Venison, Venison Tripe, Venison Heart, Venison Lung, Venison Liver.

• Guaranteed Analysis: Crude Protein 44% min, Crude Fat 24% min, Crude Fiber 3% Max.

• Calorie Content: 264 kcal/scoop.

• Suitable for which dogs: All breeds.

• Feeding: Optimal feeding amounts may vary depending on your dog’s weight.

• Key Benefit: Venison is the only protein source for B vitamins and minerals that promote your pup’s overall wellness. 

• Price: $193.58 per 8.8-lb bag ($21.99-lb).

Merrick Grain-Free Real Chicken Canned Dog Food

This legume-free formula from Merrick Pet Foods features real deboned chicken as the first ingredient. It also uses high-quality ingredients from reliable and trusted sources. The recipe has been on the market since March 13th, 2018. 

Canned meals have additional benefits. Because wet food has more moisture, it can keep your pet hydrated and prevent urinary tract issues. Additionally, wet food includes fewer carbs than dry food but the same amount of protein. Furthermore, fussy eaters frequently prefer moist food.

Salmon oil provides skin and coat-friendly omegas, while taurine boosts cardiac functions. No fillers, grains, or gluten exist, so your sensitive fido can safely consume it. 

• First 5 Ingredients: Deboned Chicken, Chicken Broth, Chicken Liver, Dried Egg Product, Natural Flavor.

• Guaranteed Analysis: Crude Protein 9% min, Crude Fat 7% min, Crude Fiber 1.4% Max.

• Calorie Content: 442 kcal/13.2 oz can.

• Suitable for which dogs: All breeds.

• Feeding: Optimal feeding amounts may vary depending on your dog’s weight.

• Key Benefits: High moisture content for proper hydration, minimal chances of urinary issues, and better taste. 

• Price: $42.96 per 12.7-oz can, case of 12 ($3.38-oz).

What Facts Should You Know About Legume-Free Dog Food?

Some pups can be sensitive or allergic to legumes. Consuming them results in itching, skin irritation, rash, hives, and bald spots. Drolling, vomiting, and watery eyes are other signs of legume allergy. This Is where legume-free formulas come in. consuming a recipe devoid of legumes lowers the chances of your pup experiencing such symptoms. Below are important facts about legume-free dog food:

• When looking for legume-free dog food, it is best to consider protein sources. Ensure the protein is from real and recognizable meat.  Animal-based proteins are preferable. This is because they bring out the wolf within your dog since they imitate what dogs ate before domestication. 
• Select formulas that use natural veggies and fruits for high-quality nutrients that boost your dog’s overall well-being.   For instance, pumpkin is popular because it is a rich source of fiber and simple to digest, especially for pooches with sensitive stomachs.
• Whether a dog food supports specific health conditions your dog may have is one of the most important factors to consider when selecting. If your dog has certain health issues, prescription medications, weight management options, or sensitive-digestion recipes are worthwhile considerations.
• The majority of dog food is made for all breeds and ages. This is fantastic if you have many dogs with different life stages. The disadvantage of these generic formulae is that they are not targeted toward a particular dog breed. For instance, puppies greatly benefit from the nutrients found in formulas designed specifically for them.

What Are the Best Dog Foods for Legume-Free According to Dog Sizes?

Best Legume-Free Dog Food for Small Dogs

• Purina Beneful Small Breed Incredibites Dry Food: Toys and small breeds cannot chew legume-free dog food formulated for large dogs. Such foods may cause choking or blockages. This recipe features farm-raised beef as the primary ingredient and essential vitamins and minerals plus antioxidants for the immune system. 

The Best Legume-Free Dog Food for Medium Dogs

• Nutro Ultra Adult Dry Food: This recipe suits your medium dog with its high protein content. It uses wholesome grains like sorghum, barley, brown rice, and oats. These are excellent legume alternatives for energy and proper digestion. Minerals, antioxidants, and omegas support bone, immune, coat, and skin health.

Best Legume-Free Dog Food for Large Dogs

• ORIJEN Puppy Amazing Grains Large Breed Dry Food: This formula uses nutrient-rich ingredients to maintain large-breed puppies’ health and nutritional needs. The mix includes prebiotics, probiotics, fibers, and natural DHA and EPA to promote immunity, digestion, eye development, brain function, and skin and coat health. The first five ingredients are all animal protein, ensuring sufficient high-quality protein in the recipe.

What Are the Best Dog Foods for Legume-Free With Different Ingredients?

The Best Legume-Free Dog Food with Salmon

• Taste of the Wild Smoked-Flavored Salmon Ancient Grains Ancient Stream Dry Food: Salmon is good for the skin. It is also rich in proteins for strong muscles. Consuming salmon keeps your dog away from frequent infections thanks to its antioxidant properties. This formula uses ancient grains like millet and pearled barley.

Which Is the Best Legume-Free Dog Food without Chicken

• Stella & Chewy’s Wholesome Grains Wild Red Dry Food: Dogs that cannot tolerate chicken and legumes will find this premium formula an excellent alternative. It contains a high protein content from sources like goat, beef, venison, bison, and lamb. The recipe is freeze-dried raw to tempt your picky eater. 

Best Legume-Free Dog Food with Pumpkin

• Orijen Large Breed Puppy Amazing Grains Dry Food: Pumpkin offers fiber for smooth digestion, and this high-quality meal features whole pumpkin for a healthy dog. Your dog’s skin, coat, and immune system will benefit from the high DHA and EPA levels. DHA is also crucial for brain wellness in puppies. 

Best wet dog food without vegetables 

Royal Canin Canned Puppy Dog Food is a legume and vegetable-free dog food for puppies. This formula includes vitamins C and E to ensure your puppy is not constantly sick. The inclusion of beet pulp and fish oil promotes gastrointestinal wellness. 

Taurine supports heart functions. However, dogs with grain allergies may not benefit from this recipe since it includes grains. 

• First 5 Ingredients: Water Sufficient for Processing, Chicken By-Products, Chicken, Pork By-Products, Chicken Liver.

• Guaranteed Analysis: Crude Protein 7.5% min, Crude Fat 4% min, Crude Fiber 2% Max.

• Calorie Content: 166 kcal/13.5-oz can.

• Suitable for which dogs: All breeds.

• Feeding: Optimal feeding amounts may vary depending on your dog’s activity levels, age, and weight.

• Key Benefits: High moisture content for proper hydration, minimal chances of urinary issues, and better taste. 

• Price: $41.88 per 13.5-oz can, case of 12 ($3.10-oz).

Best dog food without barley 

• Barley may trigger allergic reactions in dogs that cannot tolerate grains. American Journey Grain-Free Salmon & Sweet Potato Dry Food is devoid of grains, including barley. Salmon is the leading ingredient for amino acids that boost muscle wellness. Increased antioxidants boost immunity, while fiber from sweet potatoes supports smooth digestion. 

Can dogs be allergic to legumes? 

Yes. Dogs can be allergic to legumes, and a legume-free formula comes in. Common symptoms to watch out for include skin irritations, vomiting, watery eyes, hives,  and excessive itching. 

What is the best protein for dogs with skin allergies?

Novel protein sources are best for dogs with skin allergies. These are proteins your dog has never been introduced to, thus reducing the chances of negative reactions. Such proteins include venison and bison. Hydrolyzed proteins are also great. These proteins have been chemically broken into their most fundamental amino acids.

What vegetables are best for dogs with allergies?

Broccoli and green beans are the best veggies for pups with allergies. Broccoli can be served cooked and raw as long as no flavors or oils are added. Serve cautiously, as the florets contain isothiocyanates, which can irritate the stomach. Green beans are fiber-dense for digestion. 

Is it safe to feed legumes to dogs? Final Thoughts

Dogs that cannot tolerate legumes can still get balanced and complete nutrition from legume-free formulas. Our 10 best formulas help you make that critical switch to meals devoid of legumes. 

Start with our best overall Merrick Classic Healthy Grains Puppy Recipe Dry Food. It starts with real chicken and uses high-quality proteins for your digestive wellness. The high levels of DHA ensure your dog’s brain develops well. 

Our budget-friendly meal Rachael Ray Nutrish Just 6 Limited Ingredient Dry Food, uses fewer ingredients to reduce the risks of allergies and sensitivities. You have a wide list to choose from. The decision is yours.