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Dealing with your Boston Terrier’s food allergies can be beyond frustrating! We asked our 800,000 members of the Boston Terrier community on Facebook the following question: “Those of you with Boston Terriers who have allergies…. what food do you use and why?” We received hundreds of replies, and summarized the top 20 responses here.
As always, be sure to consult your veterinarian before making any health changes to your Boston Terrier’s diet.
Healthier Meals for Dogs With Allergies
Blue Buffalo Life Protection Formula Adult Small Breed Dry Dog Food
I use this… since her birth, she has had bad reflux and allergies. I tried several different kinds (under vet care), and this is what worked best for her.
Author: Danielle D.
Likes: 0
iHeartDogs Allergy & Itch Relief for Dogs with Salmon Oil
Not a food recommendation, but I would HIGHLY recommend this allergy supplement on Amazon. Reduced my dog’s itching substantially. My vet said keep using it!
Author: Jay C.
Likes: 18
Duchess doesn’t really have a food allergy, but I use Beneful salmon for her, and it seems to do well. She doesn’t have as much gas, and when she does break wind, it’s not curling my nose hairs. So that’s a benefit of the food she gets, I suppose.
Author: Chris M.
Likes: 0
Purina Pro Plan Sensitive Skin and Stomach Dog Food With Probiotics for Dogs
Purina Pro Plan sensitive stomach and skin. Then I cook a topper of pork loin (fat trimmed and on a rack out of fat), and steam broccoli, cauliflower, carrots, squash, green beans, blueberries, and strawberries, and run it all through a food processor and use it as their topper. I make this for my Boston and my Yorkie.
Author: Jennifer G.
Likes: 4
Select Sensitive Stomach Dog Food Roll
Fresh Pet or I fix it myself with venison.
Author: Belinda W.
Likes: 2
Nutro Natural Choice Small Bites Dry Dog Food
I have been feeding lamb and rice to all my dogs for years. My vet says it’s easier on their digestive tract. Been using Nutro for some time. He rarely has stomach problems. Very little gas, too. Boy, he can clear a room.
Author: Glenda T.
Likes: 0
My sister-in-law’s dog has many allergies. She only gives her dog food she makes herself, such as chicken, green beans, cheese, carrots, rice, and things healthy for dogs. This was recommended by her vet. Also, the reason why you have more knowledge of what’s going into your fur babies’ food.
Author: Glenna R.
Likes: 0
Hill’s Science Diet Adult Sensitive Stomach & Skin Dry Dog Food
Hills Science Diet– has worked for all my pups with allergies.
Author: Brandie H.
Likes: 4
Nutrish Small Breed Real Chicken & Veggies Recipe Whole Health Blend Dry Dog Food
We use Rachel Ray’s little bites, which have the right fat and protein %, and the size of the piece works great for my 13-year-old and my 3-year-old runt
Author: Ty R.
Likes: 1
Royal Canin Veterinary Diet Canine Hypoallergenic PR Potato & Rabbit Dry Dog Food
I have the worst allergies. I had to switch to Royal Canin PR. Her fur finally grew back after switching.
Author: Nacole S.
Likes: 1
Dog parents need to realize that food is medicine for dogs, the same way it is for us. Kibble dog foods don’t have much nutrition. They are heated to such a high temperature. They also contain ingredients that cause allergic responses. If you feed kibble, you should consider cooking a topper for your dog’s food with appropriate vegetables and meat, and give them fruit. The best thing about that is you know what your dog is eating. This will make a dramatic difference in your dog’s health.
Author: Deborah C.
Likes: 3
We started making our dog food. We control the ingredients, and it’s healthy. We tried the farmer’s dog for a while, but it was outrageously expensive. We have 3 dogs, a Boston and 2 chihuahua’s. It costs us about $10-12/week to feed all three. And that includes dog treats as well.
Author: Norris S.
Likes: 1
Rachael Ray Nutrish Just 6 Premium Natural Dry Dog Food
The only thing mine could eat was Rachel Rays, just 6 or Rachel Rays Grain Free. I tried everything, but those were the only 2 that cleared up her skin and her tummy.
Author: Kay W.
Likes: 0
Fromm Four-Star Nutritionals Game Bird Dog Food
Our Rocky takes Apoquel every day. We had him tested, and he doesn’t have a food allergy; instead, it’s environmental. Molly is fine. We buy Fromm grain-free because it’s a good quality food
Author: Geri L.
Likes: 1
Merrick Premium Grain Free Dry Adult Dog Food
Merrick. Salmon & Sweet potato or chicken & sweet potato. No problem with her skin allergies using that.
Author: Jean N.
Likes: 1
Taste of the Wild High Prairie Canine Grain-Free Recipe with Roasted Bison and Venison Adult Dry Dog Food
Taste of the Wild (Bison), it’s grain-free, and he’s doing great on it; he’s also allergic to poultry!
Author: Robyn B.
Likes: 3
Purina Pro Plan Sensitive Skin and Sensitive Stomach Dog Food Lamb and Oat Meal Formula
Purina Pro Plan Lamb and Oatmeal for a sensitive stomach and skin. My dog needed the probiotic, and he needs it for his skin!
Author: Deborah L.
Likes: 1
Blue Buffalo Basics Grain-Free Dry Dog Food for Adult Dogs
Blue Buffalo grain-free limited ingredients salmon and sweet potato
Author: Kathy M.
Likes: 1
Merrick Premium Grain Free Dry Adult Dog Food
Merrick salmon and sweet potato….my boy has a severe chicken allergy and is also allergic to grains when they are in dog food.
Author: Kaitlyn E.
Likes: 1
Fromm Four-Star Nutritionals Salmon A La Veg Dog Food
Fromm dog food… no chicken …everything else seems to work…salmon..pork n peas…lots of fruit/vegetables…11 years now.
Author: P.I. Roth
Likes: 0
ORIJEN Amazing Grains High Protein Dry Dog Food
Orijen regional red. Three dogs. The only one who’s ever had an allergy to food was our cat, after 8 years on it, switched her to Science Hill’s sensitive stomach.
Author: Heinous N.
Likes: 0
Frequently Asked Questions About the Best Foods for Boston Terriers with Allergies
1. What are the most common food allergies in Boston Terriers?
Boston Terriers are prone to allergies from common protein sources such as beef, chicken, and dairy. Grains like wheat, corn, and soy can also trigger allergic reactions. Identifying and eliminating these allergens through an elimination diet or allergy testing can help determine the root cause.
2. How can I tell if my Boston Terrier has a food allergy?
Typical signs of food allergies include excessive scratching, ear infections, gastrointestinal issues like vomiting or diarrhea, and red, inflamed skin. If these symptoms persist, consult your veterinarian for a proper diagnosis and dietary guidance.
3. What ingredients should I look for in hypoallergenic dog food?
Choose foods with limited ingredients and novel protein sources like duck, salmon, or venison. Grain-free options and those that use alternative carbohydrates, such as sweet potatoes or peas, are also ideal. Look for formulas labeled as “limited ingredient” or “hypoallergenic.”
4. Are grain-free diets good for Boston Terriers with allergies?
Grain-free diets can be beneficial if your Boston Terrier is allergic to grains like wheat or corn. However, not all Boston Terriers need grain-free food, so it’s best to determine your dog’s specific sensitivities before making the switch.
5. Can homemade diets help Boston Terriers with allergies?
Yes, a homemade diet allows for complete control over ingredients, making it easier to eliminate allergens. However, it’s crucial to work with a veterinarian or canine nutritionist to ensure the diet is balanced and meets all of your dog’s nutritional needs.
6. Is switching to a novel protein diet helpful for allergic Boston Terriers?
Yes, novel protein diets—using uncommon meat sources like kangaroo, rabbit, or duck—can help avoid triggering existing allergies. These proteins are less likely to have been encountered by your dog before, reducing the risk of allergic reactions.
7. How long does it take to see improvement after switching foods?
You may start to notice improvements in your Boston Terrier’s symptoms within 4 to 6 weeks of switching to a new diet. However, some cases may take longer, especially if the dog has multiple allergies. Consistency and patience are key.
Support Your Dog’s Allergy Relief With Better Nutrition
Choosing the right food can make a world of difference for dogs with allergies. When you select recipes made with gentle ingredients and clean nutrition, you help soothe irritation, support digestion, and keep your pup feeling their best. Every thoughtful choice brings your dog closer to the comfort and wellness they deserve. With the right allergy-friendly diet, you can ease symptoms and enjoy more joyful, energetic days together. Because a healthy, comfortable dog is a truly happy dog.
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