Best Dog Food for Skin Allergies in Australia (2025 Vet Guide)

Here are our top vet-recommended dog foods for skin allergies in Australia for 2025:

• Best Dry Dog Food for Skin Allergies: Hill’s Prescription Diet Derm Complete Dry Dog Food
• Best Wet Dog Food for Skin Allergies: Royal Canin Veterinary Skin Support Wet Dog Food
• Best for Itchy Skin and Coat Support: Royal Canin Veterinary Skintopic Dry Dog Food
• Best Hypoallergenic Dog Food: Royal Canin Hypoallergenic Dry Dog Food
• Best Skin Support Dog Food for Small Breeds: Royal Canin Veterinary Diet Skintopic Small Dog Dry Food
• Best Skin Support Dog Food for Large Breeds: Purina Pro Plan Sensitive Skin & Stomach Medium & Large Breed Adult Dog Dry Food
• Best Prescription Diet for Severe Allergies: Hill’s Prescription Diet z/d Skin/Food Sensitivities Dry Dog Food
• Best Budget-Friendly Skin Support Option: Hill's Science Diet Sensitive Stomach & Skin Adult Dog Dry Food

Hill’s Prescription Diet Derm Complete Dry Dog Food

Hill’s Derm Complete is specially formulated to help dogs with both food and environmental allergies. It uses egg as a single, novel protein and includes clinically proven nutrients to reduce itching, restore skin integrity, and support immune balance.

The standout feature in this Hill's Prescription Diet is its Histaguard Complex, which helps manage the body's response to environmental allergens like pollen and dust. Combined with omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids, it works to calm inflammation and strengthen the skin’s natural barrier.

Why Dr Jack recommends this food:

• Clinical studies show this diet reduces signs of skin allergies.
• This formula supports dogs with multiple allergy triggers.
• The nutrients help strengthen immune health and promote skin healing.

Royal Canin Veterinary Skin Support Wet Dog Food

This wet formula by Royal Canin is ideal for dogs with skin sensitivities who need a softer food due to age or dogs with dental issues. It’s packed with essential fatty acids, antioxidants, and nutrients that help reduce skin inflammation and support repair.

Its palatable texture makes it easier for fussy or senior dogs to enjoy their meals, while its nutrient profile promotes strong skin defences and improved coat health. It can be fed on its own or alongside matching dry dog food.

Why Dr Jack recommends this food:

• This food suits dogs with poor appetite or difficulty chewing.
• Targeted nutrients support healthy skin regeneration.
• The moist format boosts hydration and enhances palatability.

Royal Canin Veterinary Skintopic Dry Dog Food

Royal Canin Skintopic is designed for dogs dealing with chronic itching, redness, and coat issues related to environmental allergens. It combines high levels of omega-3 fatty acids, antioxidants, and vitamins to reduce skin flare-ups and support barrier function.

This formula also includes a unique skin care nutrient complex to nourish the skin from the inside out, making it a reliable choice for dogs with atopic dermatitis or seasonal skin issues.

Why Dr Jack recommends this food:

• This diet targets inflammation linked to environmental allergies.
• Key nutrients strengthen the skin’s barrier to reduce future flare-ups.
• Clinical research supports its effectiveness in dermatological care.

Royal Canin Hypoallergenic Dry Dog Food

This prescription diet by Royal Canin is formulated with hydrolysed soy protein, which is broken down into small particles that are unlikely to trigger allergic reactions. It’s ideal for dogs with confirmed food allergies or chronic gastrointestinal upset linked to diet.

With added omega fatty acids and B vitamins, it also helps maintain skin health while eliminating common allergens like chicken, beef, wheat, and dairy from the recipe.

Why Dr Jack recommends this food:

• Hydrolysed protein makes this diet suitable for true food allergies.
• The formula excludes common allergy triggers.
• Key ingredients help soothe both skin and digestive sensitivities.

Royal Canin Veterinary Diet Skintopic Small Dog Dry Food

Formulated specifically for small dog breeds, this Royal Canin diet supports dogs with sensitive or allergy-prone skin. It contains nutrients that promote a healthy skin barrier, along with tailored energy content for smaller, high-metabolism dogs.

The kibble size is designed for small mouths, while the formula works to reduce skin inflammation and improve coat shine, making it perfect for breeds like like Pomeranians, Chihuahuas and Miniature Poodles.

Why Dr Jack recommends this food:

• This diet is formulated for the specific needs of small dogs.
• Targeted nutrients help reduce skin sensitivity and support a healthy coat.
• The small kibble size improves acceptance and aids digestibility.

Purina Pro Plan Sensitive Skin & Stomach Medium & Large Breed Adult Dog Dry Food

This formula from Purina is tailored for medium and large breed dogs with sensitive skin and digestion. It uses salmon as the first ingredient, providing a rich source of omega-3s to nourish the skin and reduce inflammation.

With no wheat, soy, or artificial additives, it's gentle on the stomach and helps support a strong immune system. Added glucosamine also promotes joint health, which is especially important for larger dogs.

Why Dr Jack recommends this food:

• Salmon-based protein helps support sensitive skin in dogs.
• The recipe excludes wheat and soy to improve digestibility.
• Added nutrients provide targeted joint support for large dog breeds.

Hill’s Prescription Diet z/d Skin/Food Sensitivities Dry Dog Food

Hill’s z/d is one of the most trusted options for dogs with severe food allergies or chronic dermatitis. It features hydrolysed protein and a purified carbohydrate source, which greatly reduces the risk of triggering an allergic reaction.

This formula is clinically tested to help reduce skin symptoms and support healthy digestion, making it ideal for dogs who haven’t responded to more conventional allergy diets.

Why Dr Jack recommends this food:

• Hydrolysed protein and a single carbohydrate source support dogs with extreme sensitivities.
• Clinical studies show this diet reduces signs of skin and food reactions.
• Vets often use it in elimination trials and long-term allergy management.

Hill's Science Diet Sensitive Stomach & Skin Adult Dog Dry Food

For pet parents looking for an over-the-counter option, this Hill's Science Diet formula offers excellent skin and digestive support at a more affordable price. It uses prebiotic fibre and vitamin E to promote healthy digestion and nourish the skin.

With omega-6 fatty acids and high-quality protein, it helps maintain a shiny coat and reduce dry, flaky skin. It’s a great choice for dogs with mild sensitivities who don’t require a prescription veterinary diet.

Why Dr Jack recommends this food:

• This Hill's formula offers an affordable option with targeted skin support.
• Its gentle ingredients are easy on sensitive stomachs.
• Key nutrients help reduce dry, itchy skin and promote a healthy coat.

Every dog food in this guide has been selected based on veterinary insight, clinical research, and real-world effectiveness. We looked beyond marketing labels to focus on diets that deliver meaningful improvements for dogs suffering from allergies and skin sensitivities.

Our selection process considered the following factors:

• Veterinary endorsement – All foods are recommended by vets and meet strict medical criteria for allergy and skin management.
• Proven results – We prioritised diets that have shown clinical improvements in skin condition, coat quality, and allergy control.
• Nutritional quality – Only foods with balanced, complete nutrition, high-quality ingredients, and evidence-based skin support nutrients made the list.
• Compliance with standards – All foods meet or exceed AAFCO, FEDIAF, or Australian Pet Food Manufacturing Standards (AS 5812).

Skin allergies are not just skin-deep. They often signal underlying immune reactions triggered by food, environmental allergens, or both. Over time, unmanaged allergies can lead to chronic itching, secondary infections, hair loss, and significant discomfort.

Skin-support diets are formulated to help break this cycle. They provide targeted nutrients like omega-3 fatty acids to reduce inflammation, strengthen the skin’s natural barrier, and improve resilience to allergens. Some even use hydrolysed or novel proteins to avoid triggering food-related reactions altogether.

Feeding the right food plays a vital role in both managing symptoms and preventing future flare-ups, making it one of the most effective tools in long-term allergy care.

Dog skin allergies can be triggered by a variety of factors, and often more than one is involved. Understanding the underlying cause helps guide the right treatment and dietary approach.

1. Food Allergies

Some dogs develop immune responses to specific ingredients like chicken, beef, dairy, or wheat. These reactions can show up as itching, ear infections, or digestive upset.

2. Environmental Allergies

Also known as atopic dermatitis, these include allergens such as pollen, grass, mould, and dust mites. Dogs may lick their paws, scratch their face, or develop red, inflamed skin.

3. Flea Allergy Dermatitis

Even a single flea bite can cause a severe allergic reaction in sensitive dogs. Strict flea control is essential for managing this condition.

4. Contact Allergies

Reactions can also occur from direct contact with certain shampoos, cleaning products, or synthetic materials.

Pinpointing the cause with your vet’s help allows you to choose the most appropriate food and lifestyle changes for your dog’s specific needs.

A dog’s skin is its largest organ, and it relies heavily on proper nutrition to stay healthy. When the skin barrier is compromised due to allergies or poor nutrition, it becomes more vulnerable to inflammation, infections, and persistent itching.

Diets formulated for skin support often contain ingredients that work on multiple levels. Essential fatty acids like omega-3s reduce inflammation, while high-quality protein supports tissue repair. Vitamins such as A, E, and B-complex help maintain hydration and skin cell function. In addition to diet, supplements can play a valuable role — particularly those targeting gut health. Products like Synbiotic D-C and other dog probiotics help support the gut-skin axis, improving immune regulation and potentially reducing allergic responses. When combined with a skin-focused diet, these supplements can help accelerate healing and improve long-term results.

Choosing the right food for your dog’s skin condition goes beyond avoiding obvious triggers. Here are the key features that set effective allergy-support diets apart:

Hypoallergenic and Limited Ingredient Formulas

These diets use either hydrolysed proteins (broken down so the immune system doesn’t react to them) or novel proteins your dog hasn’t encountered before. Limiting the number of ingredients reduces the chances of a reaction and simplifies the identification of triggers.

Omega-3s, Fatty Acids and Skin-Support Nutrients

Omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids are essential for reducing inflammation and supporting skin repair. Look for diets rich in fish oil or flaxseed, as well as added nutrients like vitamin E, zinc, and biotin for coat and skin health.

Ingredients to Avoid (e.g. Chicken, Wheat, Dairy)

Common allergens for dogs include chicken, beef, dairy, soy, and wheat. If your dog has a known sensitivity, opt for foods that clearly exclude the ingredient. Many prescription diets are specifically formulated without these common triggers.

Even the best food won't deliver results if it isn’t introduced and fed correctly. These tips will help ensure your dog gets the most from their new allergy-friendly diet:

Transitioning to New Foods Safely

Change foods gradually over 5 to 7 days. Start with 25% new food mixed with 75% old food, then slowly increase the new while reducing the old. This helps avoid digestive upset and allows your dog’s system to adjust.

Watching for Signs of Improvement

Most dogs show visible improvements in their skin and coat within 4 to 8 weeks on a specialised diet. Watch for reduced itching, clearer skin, less paw licking, and a shinier coat. If symptoms persist beyond this window, check in with your vet.

How to Handle Treats and Extras

Be careful not to undo the benefits of a special diet with treats that contain allergens. Use hypoallergenic treats or reserve a portion of your dog’s main food to use as treats throughout the day. Avoid table scraps and commercial treats unless you’re sure they match the same allergy-friendly standards.

Managing skin allergies is not just a short-term fix but an ongoing process. Consistency and routine are key to keeping symptoms under control and preventing flare-ups.

• Stick to the prescribed diet without switching or adding foods unless recommended by your vet.
• Maintain regular flea control, even if your dog’s allergies aren’t flea-related. Fleas can trigger or worsen allergic reactions.
• Schedule regular check-ups to monitor progress and adjust treatment plans as needed.
• Minimise exposure to environmental allergens by wiping your dog’s paws after walks, using air purifiers, and washing bedding frequently.

With a consistent diet, veterinary guidance, and good daily care, most dogs with allergies can enjoy a more comfortable, itch-free life.

How long does it take for dog food to help with skin allergies?

Most dogs show signs of improvement within 4 to 8 weeks of starting a new allergy-friendly diet. Some may respond faster, especially if the food addresses both food and environmental triggers. Consistency is key — avoid switching foods or adding treats unless approved by your vet.

Can I feed allergy-friendly food without a prescription?

Yes, there are non-prescription options like Hill’s Science Diet Sensitive Stomach & Skin or Purina Pro Plan Sensitive Skin & Stomach. However, dogs with severe allergies or confirmed food intolerances usually benefit more from prescription formulas recommended by your vet.

Do all itchy dogs need hypoallergenic food?

Not necessarily. While diet can play a major role, some dogs itch due to fleas, environmental allergens, or even stress. It’s best to consult your vet to rule out other causes before committing to a long-term dietary change.

Is it okay to mix wet and dry allergy-friendly food?

Many pet parents mix wet and dry formats to improve the palatability and hydration of their dog's allergy-friendly food. Make sure both foods are compatible in terms of ingredients and allergy support, and adjust portions to avoid overfeeding.

What treats are safe for dogs with allergies?

Stick to treats made with limited ingredients or that match your dog’s main food. Prescription diets often offer matching treats, or you can use small amounts of the main kibble as training rewards. Avoid anything containing chicken, beef, wheat, or dairy unless your vet confirms it's safe.

Supporting your dog through skin allergies can feel overwhelming, but the right food can make a world of difference. By choosing a vet-recommended diet designed for skin support, you’re helping reduce your dog’s discomfort, heal their skin, and improve their overall quality of life.

Whether your dog needs a hypoallergenic formula, a sensitive skin option, or a prescription solution, the foods in this guide offer trusted, effective relief. With patience, consistent feeding, and support from your vet, your dog can go from itchy and uncomfortable to happy, healthy, and thriving.

This article was written by Dr Jack Ayerbe