Hydrolyzed Protein Dog Food Reviews & Buyer's Guide
- Last updated on October 20, 2022
- By: Caroline Stowe
Did you know that hydrolyzed protein dog food can be used to treat two different diseases? Food allergies and inflammatory bowel disease are both commonly treated with hydrolyzed dog food. Veterinarians typically prescribe hydrolyzed protein diet for dogs to help alleviate the symptoms of these conditions.
But what exactly is hydrolyzed protein dog food, why is it beneficial, and is it the right choice for your pup? In this article, we’ll explain what hydrolyzed protein diet is, how it works, what are the benefits and potential side effects of feeding it to your dog. We’ll also offer our recommendations and provide product reviews to help you choose the right one for your pup.
Table of Contents
What Is hydrolyzed protein dog food?
Hydrolyzed protein dog food is a type of food that has been specifically designed for dogs who have allergies or sensitivities. The hydrolyzed process breaks down the proteins into smaller pieces. This makes them easier for the dog to digest and doesn’t trigger your dog’s immune system, which can help reduce the risk of an allergic reaction.
What to look for in a hydrolyzed protein dog food brand?
There are a few things you should keep in mind when choosing a hydrolyzed protein dog food:
Dog’s age & size: When choosing a hydrolyzed protein diet for your dog, consider the age, breed and size of your pup and choose one that is appropriate for the age and size. Puppies and smaller breeds will need a diet that is higher in calories and protein, while older dogs or larger breeds may need a diet that is lower in fat and calories.
Ingredients: It is important to read the ingredient list carefully to ensure that the food is made with high-quality ingredients and contains all of the nutrients your dog requires. Look for one that is specifically designed for dogs with sensitivities and allergies and is certified by the AAFCO. Avoid foods that contain fillers, preservatives, artificial additive or coloring.
Hydration: Hydrolyzed protein dog foods can be either dry or wet. If you have a dog that tends to be on the drier side, you may want to go for wet food. Wet foods typically contain more moisture than dry foods, which can help keep your dog hydrated.
Allergies: If your dog has any allergies, it’s important to choose a food that doesn’t contain any ingredients that could trigger an allergic reaction. For example, if your dog is allergic to corn, you’ll want to avoid foods that contain cornmeal or cornstarch.
Cost: Hydrolyzed protein dog foods can vary in price, depending on the brand and the quality of the ingredients. In general, you can expect to pay more for food that contains higher-quality ingredients. Choose one that is within your budget.
Check reviews: Read reviews from other dog parents to get an idea of what to expect. Keep in mind that not all dogs will respond the same way to a particular food, so take reviews with a grain of salt.
If you are in doubt, always consult your veterinarian to make sure it is the right choice for your Fido.
What is the best hydrolyzed protein dog food?
When it comes to finding the best hydrolyzed protein dog food, there is no one-size-fits-all answer. However, many veterinarians recommend specific brands such as Royal Canin, Hill’s, and Blue Buffalo. These brands have all been specifically formulated for dogs with allergies or inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), and are generally well tolerated by most canines.
If you’re looking for a high-quality and reliable option for your pup, be sure to check out our reviews below! We’ve evaluated dozens of different products to bring you the finest so that you can select the best one for your dog’s nutritional needs and requirements.
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Our Top Picks For Dry Foods:
Our Top Picks For Wet Foods:
Hydrolyzed protein dog foods reviewed
Our team of experts has researched and reviewed the best dog foods with hydrolyzed protein. We’ve looked at dozens to find out what is really safe, and nutritious without compromising your pup’s health or taste buds!
Before making any purchases, read on and check out our reviews as we share our findings to help you make an informed decision and select the best option for your pup’s diet needs.
Royal Canin Hydrolyzed Protein HP Dry Dog Food For Adults & Puppies
Key ingredients: Brewers Rice, Hydrolyzed Soy Protein, Chicken Fat, Dried Plain Beet Pulp, Fish Oil
Caloric content per kg: 3,856 kcal
Nutrition Info (Guaranteed Analysis): Crude Protein 19.5% min, Crude Fat 17.5% min, Crude Fiber 3.1% max, Moisture 10.0% max, EPA + DHA 0.2% min, Omega-3 Fatty Acids 0.5% min
We often get asked what’s the best diet for dogs with food sensitivities. And our answer is always the same: Royal Canin Hydrolyzed Protein Adult HP.
This highly palatable diet is suitable for both adult dogs and puppies. It’s specially formulated with hydrolyzed proteins, which are comprised of low-molecular-weight peptides that may be absorbed into the digestive system without triggering an immune reaction. It minimizes GI and skin responses that can be triggered by pet food allergies.
Enriched with essential nutrients, B vitamins, and amino acids that are essential for skin health in dogs with sensitivity or irritation, as well as omega-3 fatty acids EPA and DHA to promote healthy skin and coat. An exclusive blend of fibers and prebiotics help support healthy digestion in dogs prone to digestive upsets, including diarrhea.
And with strict manufacturing procedures to help avoid cross-contamination, you can confidently feed Royal Canin Hydrolyzed Protein Adult HP long-term to dogs with food sensitivities.
So if you’re looking for a diet that’s specifically formulated for dogs with food sensitivities, we highly recommend Royal Canin Hydrolyzed Protein Adult HP.
Pros:
- Reduced GI and skin reactions
- Enriched with essential nutrients
- B vitamins and amino acids for healthy skin
- Omega-3 fatty acids EPA and DHA for additional skin and coat health benefits
- Exclusive blend of fibers to support healthy digestion
- Strict manufacturing procedures
- Suitable for growing puppies and adults of all breeds
Cons:
- More expensive than most other brands
- Some dogs do not like the smell and would not eat it
Hill's Prescription Diet z/d Skin/Food Sensitivities Dry Dog Food For Adults
Key ingredients: Hydrolyzed Chicken Liver, Hydrolyzed Chicken, Soybean Oil, Corn Starch, Vitamins, Biotin, Folic Acid.
Caloric content per kg: 3,556 kcal
Nutrition Info (Guaranteed Analysis): Crude Protein 19.1% min, Crude Fat 14.4% min, Crude Fiber 4.4% max, Omega-3 Fatty Acids 0.3.0% min, Omega-6 Fatty Acids 4.43% min
If you’re concerned about your dog’s skin and food sensitivities, Hill’s Prescription Diet z/d Skin/Food Sensitivities is a great option. This food is specifically designed by Hill’s nutritionists and veterinarians to support your dog’s skin and food sensitivities. It contains high-quality hydrolyzed animal protein as well as a single purified carbohydrate source to help avoid common food allergens.
Plus, it’s enriched with essential fatty acids and promotes a healthy skin barrier. Studies have shown that this diet can improve skin & coat health in just 30 days, normalize stool, and support a healthy immune system.
Highly recommend Hill’s Prescription Diet z/d Skin/Food Sensitivities for dogs with sensitive skin or digestive issues.
Pros
- Promotes healthy skin & coat
- Contains high-quality hydrolyzed animal protein
- Single purified carbohydrate source to help avoid common food allergens
- Enriched with essential fatty acids
- Improves skin health in just 30 days
- Normalizes stool
- Supports a healthy immune system
Cons:
- Pricey compared to some other brands
- Some dogs may not be fond of the taste and so refuse to eat it.
BLUE BUFFALO Natural Veterinary Diet HF Hydrolyzed for Food Intolerance Dry Dog Food
Key ingredients: Salmon Hydrolysate, Potatoes, Peas, Flaxseed, Fish Oil, Pumpkin, Dried Kelp, Dried Chicory Root
Caloric content per kg: 3,529 kcal
Nutrition Info (Guaranteed Analysis): Crude Protein 24.0% min, Crude Fat 12.0% min, Crude Fiber 5.0% max, Moisture 10.0% max, Calcium 0.7% min, Phosphorous 0.5% min, Vitamin E 300 IU/kg min, Soluble Fiber 1.0% min, Omega 3 Fatty Acids 1.5% min, Omega 6 Fatty Acids 2.0% min
Looking for a natural diet that can help address your pup’s food sensitivities? Blue Buffalo’s Natural Veterinary Diet HF Hydrolyzed for Food Intolerance Dog Food is the ideal choice. This grain-free veterinary diet is specifically formulated with hydrolyzed salmon to provide a highly digestible protein source your pup will tolerate.
It contains naturally sourced omega-3 fatty acids and flaxseed to help your Fidos’ skin and coat look healthy and glossy. This diet is also enriched with vitamins E and C, along with antioxidant-rich ingredients including pumpkin and kelp to help boost your pup’s healthy immune system.
Furthermore, this wholesome diet has both beneficial nutrition and a taste your furry best friend will absolutely love.
Pros:
- Formulated for dogs with food intolerance
- Real hydrolyzed salmon as the first ingredient for a highly digestible protein
- Naturally sourced omega-3 fatty acids for healthy skin and coat
- Antioxidant-rich ingredients, Vitamins E and C for a healthy immune system
- Taste that most dogs love
- NO chicken or poultry by-product meals
- Grain-free, and no corn, wheat or soy
- NO preservative or artificial flavor
- Suitable for all breed sizes
- More affordable than other brands
Cons:
- Not for growing puppies
- Not suitable for dogs that have kidney problems as it contains peas
- Contains potato, which is an allergen in some dogs
ROYAL CANIN Hydrolyzed Protein Small Dog Dry Dog Food
Key ingredients: Brewers Rice, Hydrolyzed Soy Protein, Chicken Fat, Dried Plain Beet Pulp, Fish Oil,
Caloric content per kg: 3,653 kcal
Nutrition Info (Guaranteed Analysis): Crude Protein 22.0% min, Crude Fat 14.0% min, Crude Fiber 2.6% max, Moisture 10.0% max, Calcium 1.06% max, Phosphorus 0.91% max, Magnesium 0.1% max
If you have a small breed dog, you know that they require special care and attention. From their delicate bones to their tiny stomachs, everything about them is miniature. That’s why Royal Canin has created a veterinary-exclusive dry dog food that is specially designed for small adult dogs with food sensitivities to meet their nutritional requirements.
Formulated with hydrolyzed soy proteins so they can be easily absorbed in your dog’s digestive tract without triggering an immune reaction. Plus, it contains optimal levels of B vitamins and amino acids to help reinforce your dog’s skin barrier, as well as the RSS methodology to reduce the risk of struvite and calcium oxalate crystal and stone formation in the bladder.
And to top it all off, the kibbles are specifically designed for miniature mouths with specific shape, dimension, and texture to fit small dogs’ jaws to encourage thorough chewing and promote Tartar control.
So if you’re looking for quality food that will provide your small breed dog with everything they need to thrive, look no further than Royal Canin Hydrolyzed Protein Small Dog Dry Dog Food.
Pros:
- Formulated with hydrolyzed soy proteins to reduce the risk of immune system reaction
- Improve your dog’s skin and GI health by reducing skin reactions and gastrointestinal problems caused by protein intolerances
- Contains optimal levels of B vitamins & amino acids to help reinforce your dog’s skin barrier
- Supports urinary tract health
- Kibbles are specifically designed for small/toy breeds with shape, dimension, and texture to fit small jaws
- Limited ingredient diet
Cons:
- Not suitable for puppies
- Not be suitable for large breed dogs
- Contains chicken fat, grain and soy, so not suitable for dogs with allergies to chicken, grain or soy
- Some dogs may not like the taste
PURINA Pro Plan Veterinary Diets HA Hydrolyzed Dry Canine Formula for Allergies
Key ingredients: Corn Starch, Hydrolyzed Soy Protein Isolate, Hydrolyzed Chicken Liver, Hydrolyzed Chicken, Coconut Oil
Caloric content per kg: 3,782 kcal
Nutrition Info (Guaranteed Analysis): Crude Protein 18.0% min, Crude Fat 9.5% min, Crude Fiber 4.0% max, Moisture 10.0% max, Calcium 0.7% min, Phosphorus 0.6% min
If your dog suffers from allergies or food sensitivities, Purina’s Pro Plan Veterinary Diets HA Hydrolyzed Formula Dog Food is a great option. The tasty chicken-flavored kibbles are made with hydrolyzed protein, which means that the protein has been broken down into smaller components to minimize the likelihood of an allergic reaction.
This is a highly digestible and effective formula that promotes excellent nutrient absorption in dogs. It meets the nutritional levels established by the AAFCO Dog Food Nutrient Profiles for the maintenance of adult dogs.
Using high-quality ingredients, including omega-6 fatty acids, vitamin A, and zinc to maintain and protect the skin barrier. In addition, it is fortified with coconut oil, a natural oil rich in fatty acids, to help with gastrointestinal ailments in dogs, improve digestion, reduce allergic reactions, and bring relief to dry itchy skin and other symptoms of dermatitis which often accompanies food sensitivity in dogs.
Pros:
- Developed in collaboration with nutritionists, researchers, and veterinarians
- Single high-quality protein source & single carbohydrate source
- Contains high-quality ingredients, including omega-6 fatty acids, vitamin A, and zinc
- Fortified with coconut oil for gastrointestinal health, reduce allergic reactions and relief from dry itchy skin
- A highly digestible and effective formula that promotes excellent nutrient absorption in dogs.
- Meets the nutritional levels established by the AAFCO Dog Food Nutrient Profiles for the maintenance of adult dogs
- Ideal for dogs of all sizes and breeds
Cons:
- Not suitable for puppies
- Contains chicken and corn starch, which is an allergen in some dogs
- Some dogs dislike the flavor and refuse to eat it
DIAMOND CARE Sensitive Skin Formula Adult Dog Food
Key ingredients: Peas, Pea Flour, Hydrolyzed Salmon, Flaxseed, Tomato Pomace, Salmon Oil
Caloric content per kg: 3,510 kcal
Nutrition Info (Guaranteed Analysis): Crude Protein 22.0% min, Crude Fat 12.0% min, Crude Fiber 4.5% max, Moisture 10.0% max, Zinc 150 mg/kg min, Selenium 0.35 mg/kg min, Vitamin E 300 IU/kg min, Taurine 0.12% min, Omega-6 Fatty Acids 2.5% min, Omega-3 Fatty Acids 0.8% min, Total Microorganisms Not Less Than 80,000,000 CFU/lb min
If your dog has been scratching more than normal or licking its paws a lot, it may be experiencing allergies or skin sensitivities. You need to choose a food that will be gentle on their digestive systems and won’t trigger any adverse reactions. That’s why Diamond Care Sensitive Skin Formula Dog Food is a great choice.
This grain-free LID formula is made with peas as a quality carbohydrate source and hydrolyzed salmon as the only animal protein, to help reduce ingredients that can cause problems. Each bite of salmon flavor kibble is packed with omega-3 and 6 fatty acids for maintaining healthy skin and coat.
Vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants like vitamin E are also included for boosting immunity. It’s nutrient-dense and easily digestible. Enriched with proprietary, species-specific probiotics that survive and thrive in the GI tract to boost immunity and digestive health. It is formulated to give your adult dogs the skin-nourishing nutrition they need to look and feel their best.
So if you’re looking for a complete, nutritious and balanced diet that’s great for dogs with digestive issues, sensitive stomachs or allergies, we highly recommend Diamond Care Sensitive Skin Formula. Your pups will love the rich salmon flavor in every bowl, and you’ll love seeing them healthy and happy.
Pros:
- Hydrolyzed salmon as the only animal protein
- Limited ingredient diet (LID) formula
- Omega-3 and 6 fatty acids for maintaining healthy skin and coat
- Enriched with proprietary, species-specific probiotics that survive and thrive in the GI tract to boost immunity and digestive health
- To aid healthy digestion, this formula combines soluble and insoluble fiber
- Grain free, gluten free
- Does not contain fillers, corn, wheat, soy, preservatives, artificial colors, or flavors
- Suitable for all sizes and breeds of dogs
Cons:
- Not suitable for puppies
- Contains peas, not suitable for dogs with allergies to peas
- Some dogs do not like the taste and would not eat it
Royal Canin Veterinary Diet Hydrolyzed Protein Canned Food
Key ingredients: Water Sufficient For Processing, Pea Starch, Hydrolyzed Chicken Liver, Hydrolyzed Soy Protein, Vegetable Oil, Fish Oil
Caloric content: 396 kcal/13.7 oz can
Nutrition Info (Guaranteed Analysis): Crude Protein 5.0% min, Crude Fat 2.5% min, Crude Fiber 2.2% max, Moisture 75.5% max
If you’re looking for wet dog food that can help with tummy troubles, hair loss, and itching due to food sensitivities? Royal Canin Veterinary Diet Hydrolyzed Protein Adult HP Canned Dog Food is perfect for your pup!
This tasty meal is made with hydrolyzed proteins which makes absorption easy and minimizes immune reactions. It’s also packed with B-vitamins, amino acids, and omega-3 fatty acids to promote healthy skin and coat growth.
In addition, an exclusive blend of fibers helps support healthy digestion. Whether your Fido is prone to digestive upsets like diarrhea or suffers from food sensitivities, Royal Canin Veterinary Diet Hydrolyzed Protein Adult HP Canned Dog Food is a great choice!
Pros:
- Highly palatable canned food designed particularly for dogs with food allergies or skin, coat, and digestive problems.
- Reduces allergic reactions in your dog that may come from common food proteins.
- Features B vitamins, amino acids, and omega-3 fatty acids to promote healthy skin and coat growth
- Unique blend of fibers and prebiotics improves and supports digestive health
- Limited ingredient diet, does not contain corn or wheat
- Enriched with essential nutrients
- Manufactured under strict procedures to prevent cross-contamination, so you can feed it to your dog with confidence for a happy and healthy life.
- Perfect for both puppies and adult dogs
Cons:
- More expensive than most other brands
- Some dogs do not like the smell and would not eat it
Hill's Prescription Diet z/d Food Sensitivities Wet Dog Food
Key ingredients: Water, Hydrolyzed Chicken Liver, Corn Starch, Soybean Oil, Vitamins (Vitamin E Supplement, Ascorbic Acid (source of Vitamin C), Vitamin B12 Supplement, Biotin, Vitamin D3 Supplement), Minerals (Zinc Oxide, Ferrous Sulfate, Manganese Sulfate, Copper Sulfate, Calcium Iodate), Taurine, Beta-Carotene.
Caloric content: 352 kcal/13 oz (370 g) can
Nutrition Info (Guaranteed Analysis): Crude Protein 3.0% min, Crude Fat 2.3% min, Crude Fiber 2% max, Moisture 78% max
Hill’s Prescription Diet z/d Dog Food is a special formula developed by Hill’s nutritionists and veterinarians to help dogs with food sensitivities, digestive problems, and skin issues.
The highly hydrolyzed animal protein and single carbohydrate source make it easy for your dog to digest, while the added fiber helps promote healthy bowel movements.
The antioxidants in the food are clinically proven to support a healthy immune system, and the S+OXSHIELD formulation promotes a urinary environment that reduces the risk of developing struvite and calcium oxalate crystals.
In as little as 30 days, you will see a visible improvement in your dog’s skin and coat. Additionally, this food helps to normalize stool, promotes a healthy skin barrier, and helps support a healthy immune system.
We highly recommend Hill’s Prescription Diet z/d Canned Dog Food to help with your dog’s food sensitivities and digestive issues.
Pros:
- Highly hydrolyzed animal protein and single carbohydrate source make it easy for your dog to digest
- Added fiber helps promote healthy bowel movements
- Your dog’s skin and coat will improve in as little as 30 days
- Stop dog’s incessant itching
- Stop diarrhea and help your dog get back to normal stools
- Clinically proven antioxidants support a healthy immune system
- S+OXSHIELD formulation promotes a urinary environment that reduces the risk of developing struvite and calcium oxalate crystals
- Formulated for adult and senior dogs of all breed sizes
Cons:
- Not easy to open the can, some dog owners find that they need to use a can opener to open the cans.
- Some dogs do not like the taste and just will not eat it
PURINA Pro Plan Veterinary Diets HA Hydrolyzed Wet Dog Food, Chicken Flavour
Key ingredients: Water, Pea Starch, Hydrolyzed Chicken Liver, Hydrolyzed Soy Protein Isolate, Powdered Cellulose, Coconut Oil, Soybean Oil, Fish Oil
Caloric content: 346 kcal/ 13-oz (370g) can
Nutrition Info (Guaranteed Analysis): Crude Protein 3.0% min, Crude Fat 2.3% min, Crude Fiber 2% max, Moisture 78% max
Dogs with allergies or suffer from sensitive stomach issues typically have difficulty digesting certain proteins found in pet food. Purina has created a solution with their Pro Plan Veterinary Diets HA Hydrolyzed Chicken Flavour Canned Canine Formula for dogs with these issues.
This wet dog food is made with high-quality ingredients, healthy antioxidants, and a single high-quality carbohydrate source to provide your dog with essential nutrients.
Plus, the chicken flavor is sure to make mealtime even more enjoyable for your pup. And because it’s formulated with premium hydrolyzed protein, it’s easier for your dog to digest.
Whether you’ve got a pup in their development stage or an adult dog, this wet food provides the nutrition they need to thrive. And because it’s crafted for dogs of all sizes, you can rest assured knowing that even your large breed dog will get the nourishment they need.
As a dog parent, we only want the best for our furry friends. We want them to have food that not only tastes good but is also nutritious and satisfying. That’s why we recommend Purina Pro Plan Veterinary Diets HA Hydrolyzed dog food.
Your dog will love the taste of Purina Pro Plan Veterinary Diets HA Hydrolyzed Chicken Flavour Canned Canine Formula, and you’ll love how easily it digests.
Pros:
- Easily digestible as it is formulated with premium hydrolyzed protein
- Chicken flavor is sure to make mealtime more enjoyable for your pup
- Contains healthy antioxidants help support your dog’s healthy immune system
- Features single high-quality carbohydrate source
- Provides dogs of all breed sizes with essential nutrients
- Made with high-quality ingredients
- Formulated for dogs in all life stages including puppies
Cons:
- Some picky eaters simply refuse to eat it
- Contains chicken so not recommended for dogs with poultry allergies
- It’s difficult to mix into kibble since the texture is quite firm
BLUE BUFFALO HF Hydrolyzed For Food Intolerance, Canned Dog Food
Key ingredients: Salmon Hydrolysate, Water, Potato Starch, Pea Fiber, Flaxseed (source of Omega 3 and 6 Fatty Acids), Sunflower Oil
Caloric content: 367 kcal/ 12.5 oz (354g) can
Nutrition Info (Guaranteed Analysis): Crude Protein 8.0% min, Crude Fat 2.0% min, Crude Fiber 3.0% max, Moisture 78.0% max, Vitamin E75 IU/kg min, Omega 3 Fatty Acids 0.30% min, Omega 6 Fatty Acids 0.35% min, Ascorbic Acid (Vitamin C) 20 mg/kg min
Some dogs have negative reactions to common proteins, which can lead to skin irritation and digestion problems. This Blue Buffalo recipe is specially formulated to help manage those issues and minimize reactions.
It is specially formulated with hydrolyzed salmon, a digestible protein source, to minimize reactions and provide your dog with healthy omega-3 fatty acids from fish oil and flaxseed.
It’s also crafted with vitamins and antioxidants, plus blueberries and cranberries to support healthy immunity. This wholesome and natural veterinary diet is perfect for dogs with food sensitivities, as it does not contain corn, wheat, or soy. Plus, it’s grain-free!
Plus, this grain-free recipe is made without corn, wheat or soy, making it a great option for canines with food sensitivities. Not to mention, it is a wholesome and natural veterinary diet that is nutritious for your pup.
So we recommend giving your sensitive dogs the nutrition they need and the taste they’ll love with Blue Buffalo HF Hydrolyzed for Food Intolerance Wet Dog Food to keep them feeling their best!
Pros:
- Formulated by veterinarians and animal nutritionists
- Made using premium-quality ingredients
- NO chicken (or poultry) by-product meals
- Features hydrolyzed salmon, a digestible protein-rich real meat source
- Healthy omega-3 fatty acids from fish oil and flaxseed
- Enriched with vitamins and antioxidants, plus blueberries and cranberries to support healthy immunity.
- 100% Grain-free recipe made without corn, wheat or soy
Cons:
- Some dog owners do not like the smell
- Some dogs refused to eat it
Benefits of Hydrolyzed Protein Diet for Dogs
A hydrolyzed protein diet has many benefits that make it a great choice for pup parents. Some of the key benefits include:
1) Easier digestion for dogs with sensitive stomachs – The hydrolyzed proteins have been broken down into smaller pieces, which makes them easier to digest. This is ideal for dogs who have trouble digesting traditional protein sources.
2) Improved absorption of nutrients – The smaller pieces of protein are more easily absorbed by the dog’s digestive system, which means they get more nutrients from the food they eat. This is important for dogs who are recovering from illness or surgery, or who are older and need all the help they can get to stay healthy.
3) Reduces allergy potential – Because the proteins were chemically broken down to the point that they no longer trigger an allergic response, dogs fed a hydrolyzed protein diet are less likely to have food allergies.
4) Less likely to have inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) – IBD is a chronic inflammation of the gastrointestinal tract that could be caused by an overreaction of the immune system to a food protein. Hydrolyzed protein dog foods are beneficial because the smaller protein pieces are less likely to trigger an immune reaction.
5) Better skin and coat health – Dogs who eat a hydrolyzed protein diet often have shinier coats and fewer skin problems than dogs on other diets. This is because the hydrolyzed proteins contain all the essential amino acids that help keep your dog looking good from the inside out.
Side effects of hydrolyzed protein dog food
When switching your dog’s diet, it is possible that they might experience an increase in flatulence or be excessively gassy. However, this will only last for 2-3 weeks as their body gets used to the new ingredients and becomes accustomed to the new diet.
Additionally, since it changes the way nutrients are digested and used within the body, your pooch may experience an increase in stools or frequent bathroom trips. This also is usually temporary and will subside once their body gets used to the new nutrients from the new diet.
Hydrolyzed protein diets are safe and most dogs will not experience any side effects when starting a hydrolyzed protein diet but you should always keep an eye on them to make sure they are not having problems. If anything seems off or if the symptoms continue longer than expected (or get worse), consult your veterinarian immediately as he/she can pinpoint the source much faster than you could!
FAQs
Question: Will my dog gain weight on hydrolyzed protein food?
It is possible for your furry companion to gain weight on a hydrolyzed protein diet for dogs, but it is not as likely as it is with other types of food. Be sure to monitor your dog’s weight and adjust portions as needed.
Question: Is hydrolyzed protein bad for dogs?
Hydrolyzed protein is not bad for dogs. In fact, it can be beneficial for dogs with allergies or sensitivities to certain ingredients. The hydrolyzed process breaks down the proteins into smaller pieces, making them easier for your dog’s digestive system to break down and absorb. This can help to prevent an allergic reaction or sensitivity in your dog.
Question: How long will it take for my dog to see improvement?
After a dog has been switched to a hydrolyzed protein diet they will notice an improvement in digestion and elimination problems within two weeks. They may also see an increase in energy levels as well as a better coat.
If a dog with food allergies is put on this type of diet the effects are fairly immediate, though it can take some time for your pet’s immune system to adjust itself. So while you may start to see positive results after only 2-3 days, it may be up to 3 weeks before you experience 100% relief from symptoms caused by the allergies.
Question: How do I know if my dog needs a hydrolyzed protein diet?
Many dog owners are not familiar with the term “hydrolyzed protein diet” and are not sure if their dogs need this type of food. Hydrolyzed protein diets are often prescribed for dogs with allergies or sensitivities to certain ingredients in their food. These diets are also sometimes recommended for dogs who have trouble digesting certain proteins.
There are a few signs that may indicate that your dog needs a hydrolyzed protein diet. If your dog has chronic skin problems, gastrointestinal issues, or recurring ear infections, then a hydrolyzed protein diet may be recommended by your veterinarian.
Our Final Thoughts on Dog Food with Hydrolyzed Protein
There are many benefits to feeding your dog a hydrolyzed protein diet. For many years, veterinarians have used hydrolyzed protein meals to treat pets’ digestive difficulties, and they remain an effective choice today.
If your veterinarian prescribes a hydrolyzed protein diet for your pet, you may rest confident that it is safe to put them on the new meal plan right away. But start by gradually adding small amounts of the new food to your dog’s old food. This will help their digestive system adjust to the new diet. Be patient as it may take a few days or weeks for your dog to adjust to its new diet.
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Author:
Caroline Stowe
- Updated on October 20, 2022
Disclaimer: This article doesn’t intend to replace professional veterinary advice, nor should it be used as a substitute for veterinary services, diagnosis, or treatment. The content on this website, including information and opinions expressed herein, are intended for general informational purposes only. In case you have concerns or questions regarding your dog’s health and diet requirements, please consult your veterinarian before doing anything that might affect it.
DogPetGuide.com and the writer are not responsible or liable for any damage, liability, costs, or claims arising from any possible consequences of the reader’s action after reading this article.
