Does your pup struggle with itchy skin, endless ear infections, or tummy troubles after meals? If so, food allergies might be the culprit. And here is the good news: with the right diet, you can often bring relief.

One of the most effective strategies is switching to a novel protein diet, which uses protein sources your dog’s body has not encountered before. In this guide, we will cover what novel proteins are, why they are a game-changer for dogs with allergies, and how to choose the right food for your pup here in Bristol, TN.

Understanding Dog Allergies

Signs of Food Allergies in Dogs

Food allergies in dogs can look different from dog to dog, but some of the most common signs include:

• Persistent itchy skin

• Recurring ear infections

• Digestive upset (vomiting, diarrhea, gas)

• Excessive licking or chewing of paws

Because our dogs cannot tell us what is wrong, it often feels like playing detective. Spotting these clues early can save your pup a lot of discomfort.

Common Allergens in Dog Food

Food allergies often start with ingredients found in standard dog foods. The most common triggers are:

• Proteins: Beef, chicken, and dairy

• Grains: Wheat and corn

That does not mean these foods are bad for every dog, but once a sensitivity develops, continuing to feed the same proteins often makes symptoms worse.

What Are Novel Proteins?

A novel protein is a protein source your dog has not eaten before. Because their immune system has not been exposed to it, the risk of an allergic reaction is much lower. Think of it as hitting the reset button on your dog’s diet.

Examples of novel proteins include:

• Rabbit

• Venison

• Duck

• Fish such as salmon or whitefish

• Even more unique options like kangaroo

👉 Rotating proteins regularly, whether novel or familiar, can also support gut health and prevent overexposure. Learn more about the benefits of rotating your dog’s protein here.

Choosing the Best Food for Dogs with Allergies

Reading Labels Like a Pro

Reading dog food labels can feel like decoding a secret language, but here is the trick: always start with the first three to five ingredients. Those make up the bulk of what is in the bag.

Look for:

• Single-source proteins (for example, just rabbit, not rabbit plus chicken)

• Limited-ingredient recipes to minimize potential allergens

• Clear labeling without hidden fillers or by-products

Food Formats That Work

At Black Dog Barkery, we stock a variety of canine nutritionist-approved novel protein diets in different formats, so you can find what works best for your dog’s needs and your lifestyle:

• Freeze-dried

• Raw

• Fresh lightly cooked

These formats often provide higher-quality protein and fewer fillers than traditional kibble.

👉 Not sure which type of dog food would be best for you and your dog? We go through the pros and cons of each in our guide on choosing the best dog food.

Building a Balanced Meal

It is not just about the protein, supportive ingredients matter too. Pairing novel proteins with safe vegetables like pumpkin, sweet potato, or green beans can provide fiber and extra nutrients.

👉 Add-ons to your dogs food provide both increased nutritional value and variety for your dog. Check out our list of dog-friendly vegetables to add to your dog's next meal.

Next Steps for Bristol Pet Parents

Managing dog food allergies can feel overwhelming, but you don't have to do it alone. Here are some practical steps:

1. Keep a food journal. Track what your dog eats and how they respond. It helps identify patterns.

2. Transition gradually. Always introduce new proteins slowly over five to seven days to avoid digestive upset.

3. Work with your vet. They can help rule out other causes and confirm whether allergies are food-related.

4. Stop by the Barkery. We regularly help Bristol and Tri-Cities families find the right novel protein diet. Our shelves are stocked with carefully chosen, canine nutritionist-approved brands, so you can feel confident in what you are feeding.

Final Thoughts

Food allergies do not have to mean endless itchiness or tummy troubles. With a carefully chosen novel protein diet, you can help your pup feel comfortable, healthy, and full of energy again.

At Black Dog Barkery in Bristol, TN, we are proud to carry a variety of novel protein diets, from rabbit and venison to duck and fish, along with limited-ingredient formulas that make managing allergies easier.

Every dog deserves food that makes them thrive, not itch. If you're ready to explore allergy-friendly diets for your pup, come visit us. We will help you find the right fit.