If your dog constantly scratches, has recurring ear infections, or suffers from chronic diarrhoea, food allergy may be the cause. The most common canine food allergens are beef, chicken, dairy, wheat, and soy — ingredients found in virtually every mainstream dog food. A hypoallergenic diet uses novel proteins and limited ingredients to eliminate these triggers.
Novel Proteins Explained
A “novel protein” is simply a protein source your dog has never eaten before. Because the immune system hasn’t been exposed to it, there’s no existing sensitivity. Common novel proteins available in the UK:
| Protein | Availability | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Venison | Widely available | Most common novel protein in UK |
| Duck | Widely available | Watch for multi-protein formulas |
| Kangaroo | Specialist brands | Truly exotic, very low allergenicity |
| Rabbit | Growing availability | Lean, highly digestible |
| Insect (BSF larvae) | Emerging (Bug Bakes, Yora) | Sustainable + hypoallergenic |
| Fish (salmon, haddock) | Widely available | Novel if dog hasn’t had fish before |
The elimination diet process: Feed a single novel protein for 8-12 weeks minimum, then reintroduce previous proteins one at a time to identify the trigger. Always consult your vet before starting.
See also Best Natural Dog Food, Best Grain-Free Dog Food, and Best Insect Dog Food.