What to Feed a Dog with Food Sensitivities

If your dog scratches constantly, has a dull coat, or struggles with an upset stomach, food sensitivities could be the culprit. The good news? Simplifying what goes into their bowl — and their treat jar — is one of the most effective first steps.

What Are Food Sensitivities in Dogs?

Food sensitivities (sometimes called food intolerances) occur when a dog's digestive system reacts poorly to a specific ingredient. Common signs include:

• Itchy skin, paws, or ears
• Loose stools or vomiting
• Excessive flatulence
• A dull or flaky coat

The most common dietary culprits are proteins — typically the ones dogs have been eating most of their lives. Chicken, beef, dairy, and wheat are frequently implicated, though any ingredient can trigger a reaction in a sensitive dog.

The Elimination Diet: Where Most Vets Start

A vet-supervised elimination diet is the gold standard for identifying trigger ingredients. The process involves feeding your dog a completely novel protein and carbohydrate source — ingredients they've never eaten before — for 8–12 weeks. During this time, every treat matters. A single bite of the wrong ingredient can reset the entire trial.

This is where single-ingredient treats become genuinely essential, not just a trend.

Why Single-Ingredient Treats Are Non-Negotiable

Most commercial treats are a minefield for sensitive dogs — long ingredient lists, hidden additives, preservatives, and flavour enhancers can all trigger reactions. A single-ingredient dehydrated treat tells you exactly what your dog is eating: one protein, nothing else.

During an elimination trial, if your dog is being tested on lamb, their treats need to be lamb too. Our Beef Treats and Chicken Treats collections make it easy to stay on-protocol without sacrificing reward time.

After the Trial: Reintroducing Proteins Carefully

Once you've identified the safe base protein, you can begin reintroducing other ingredients one at a time, with at least two weeks between each addition. Keep a simple food diary — note any new treats alongside any symptoms — to build a clear picture of what your dog can and can't tolerate.

A Note on Sourcing

For sensitive dogs, quality sourcing matters as much as the ingredient itself. Locally sourced, single-origin proteins with no added hormones or preservatives reduce the variable. All of our treats are made from Australian-raised animals with no nasties — just the protein on the label.

Always consult your veterinarian before starting an elimination diet, particularly if your dog has pre-existing health conditions.