Several dog food brands are emerging daily, and the reason for this is not far-fetched. Dog owners are gradually getting accustomed to the best type of food that their dogs deserve.
Like humans, dogs are also allergic to some foods. However, trying to determine which ingredient your dog is allergic to could seem a herculean task, because there are numerous ingredients in these foods.
The difference between best-limited ingredient dog food and regular dog food is that; the former is made with limited ingredients to help determine which ingredient your dog is allergic to. These ingredients make food digestion easy and perfect for dogs with sensitive stomachs.
This article would help you sieve through the limited ingredient dog food brands available and select the top ten you can easily go through and make your choice.
Quick Recommendations:
- NomNomNow Fresh Pet Food
- Natural Balance L.I.D. Limited Ingredient Diets Sweet Potato & Fish
- American Journey Limited Ingredient Grain-Free Salmon & Sweet Potato
- Blue Buffalo Basics Limited Ingredient Diet Turkey & Potato Recipe Puppy Dry Dog Food
- Rachael Ray Nutrish Just 6 Natural Lamb Meal & Brown Rice Limited Ingredient
- CANIDAE Grain-Free PURE Real Salmon & Sweet Potato Recipe Dry Dog Food
- Wellness Simple Limited Ingredient Diet Grain-Free Turkey & Potato Formula
- Nutro Limited Ingredient Diet Grain-Free Adult Large Breed Lamb & Sweet Potato
- Zignature Turkey Limited Ingredient Formula Grain-Free Dry Dog Food
- Merrick Limited Ingredient Diet Grain-Free Real Lamb & Chickpeas Recipe Dry Dog Food
Limited Ingredient Dog Food Buying Guide
If you are concerned about which of the best-limited ingredient dog food you should buy for your dog, there are some factors you should consider that would guide you towards choosing the right product. If you do not want to buy a limited ingredient dog food, you can check our list of top 10 best dog food.
Factors which you ought to consider include:
Price: How much are you willing to pay for the product, and how much is it quoted. These are the factors you should consider. Your budget would determine the type of limited ingredient food you can buy for your dog. This would help prevent spending more than you have budgeted for.
Percentage of fat and protein: This is one of the biggest factors you should consider. The percentage of fat and protein in the food. For you to get one of the best-limited ingredient dog food that offers a high percentage of both protein and fat, you should be willing to pay more.
Source of protein: The protein used in making dog foods is usually derived from animals or vegetables. So you need to know if the protein is sourced from either a single or multiple animals.
Artificial flavors and additives: Check the food well to ensure that there are no additives or artificial flavors used in making the food. Though some are healthy for your dog, there are artificial flavors that would harm your dog.
Ingredients: How do the brands get their ingredients? Are they domestic and organic? You should also try to ensure that the source of the animal protein has not been fed antibiotics.
Dog’s preference: Your dog’s preference should also be put into consideration. Taste and preference differ in each dog. You do not need to buy a mackerel based food when you know your dog does not fancy the smell of fish.
Benefits of Limited Ingredient Dog Food
Eliminates allergies: This is why brands create limited ingredient dog foods. It helps to reduce the chances of your dog getting itchy skin due to food allergies. In case your dog reacts to the food, there are limited ingredients so you can easily tell which ingredient is the cause.
Diet rotation: Dogs love eating varieties. Eating the same food over and over again would be boring. When you need to rotate your dog’s diet, you should go for one of the best limited ingredient dog food. This would reduce the chances of your dog reacting to the food.
Aids digestion: Limited ingredient dog foods are usually grain-free, which makes digesting them easy for your dog without causing any harm to the stomach.
Helps identify allergic ingredients: The reduced level of ingredients would make identifying allergic ingredients easier. If your dog is still allergic after switching its diet to limited ingredient dog food, then you would know which of the ingredients you need to take off its diet.
List of 10 Best Limited Ingredient Dog Food Brands
If you want the best for your dog, you should select from this list of limited ingredient dog food.
This list would highlight the features, pros, cons, and customer reviews of each product. Select one of these products and your dog would appreciate it.
| IMAGE | PRODUCT | |
|---|---|---|
 | NomNomNow Fresh Pet Food
| VIEW PRODUCT → |
 | Our Top Pick Natural Balance L.I.D. Limited Ingredient Diets Sweet Potato & Fish
| VIEW ON AMAZON →READ REVIEWS → |
 | American Journey Limited Ingredient Grain-Free Salmon & Sweet Potato
| VIEW ON CHEWY →READ REVIEWS → |
 | Blue Buffalo Basics Limited Ingredient Diet Turkey & Potato Recipe Puppy Dry Dog Food
| VIEW ON AMAZON →READ REVIEWS → |
 | Rachael Ray Nutrish Just 6 Natural Lamb Meal & Brown Rice Limited Ingredient
| VIEW ON AMAZON →READ REVIEWS → |
 | CANIDAE Grain-Free PURE Real Salmon & Sweet Potato Recipe Dry Dog Food
| VIEW ON AMAZON →READ REVIEWS → |
 | Wellness Simple Limited Ingredient Diet Grain-Free Turkey & Potato Formula
| VIEW ON AMAZON →READ REVIEWS → |
 | Nutro Limited Ingredient Diet Grain-Free Adult Large Breed Lamb & Sweet Potato
| VIEW ON AMAZON →READ REVIEWS → |
 | Zignature Turkey Limited Ingredient Formula Grain-Free Dry Dog Food
| VIEW ON AMAZON →READ REVIEWS → |
 | Merrick Limited Ingredient Diet Grain-Free Real Lamb & Chickpeas Recipe Dry Dog Food
| VIEW ON AMAZON →READ REVIEWS → |
1. NomNomNow Fresh Pet Food
Though this is the most expensive brand on the list, the quality is second to none. The recipes used in making this food were designed by qualified veterinarians and they ensured only fresh and natural ingredients were used to help give your dog all the required nutrients it needs to live a healthy life. There is a meal plan on the website which uses your dog’s breed, age, and size before selecting the perfect plan for your dog.
There are no artificial flavors, no grains and the number of ingredients used in making this product is very small. This would aid fast and easy digestion without causing any bodily harm to your dog. The protein and fat content in this product is higher than the other best limited ingredient dog food on the market. Your dog would also stay hydrated while eating because of the moisture content present in the food.
Features
- Little amount of ingredients would reduce the chances of eating allergic ingredients.
- Meal plan available when you purchase this product.
- Available for all breeds, size, and age of dogs.
Why you should buy
There are several reasons why you should buy this product, this is the market leader when it comes to limited ingredient dog food. It is safe for your dog because it would not cause any reactions to your dog. Unbeaten quality for years is another unwavering reason why you should purchase this product.
Pros
- High nutritional value for your dog.
- Home delivery every two weeks.
- Suitable for sensitive dogs.
Customer’s Review
This product has a 4.8 out of 5 stars on Amazon.
2. Natural Balance L.I.D. Limited Ingredient Diets Sweet Potato & Fish
This is a household name for dog lovers. This brand has been able to successfully produce food using limited ingredients at an affordable rate. Your dog would experience more muscle and bone growth, but the percentage of protein and fats in this product is disappointing.
The protein is derived from vegetables which are not good for dogs with sensitive stomachs. This problem does not apply to only this product, it involves all dog foods that use fish. There are a handful of ingredients in this product, it has a high level of vitamins and minerals.
Features
- No grains.
- Easy digestion.
- Great source of carbohydrates.
Why you should buy
Though there have been claims that this product should not be expensive because of its lack of high protein. However, looking on the bright side, the good in this product far outweigh the bad, so I believe this product is good enough for you. If you have enough money, you should go for something better.
Pros
- Contains lots of omega-3 and 6.
- Limited ingredients.
- Easy digestion.
Cons
- Low level of protein and fat.
- Quite expensive.
Customer’s Review
This product has a 4.5 out of 5 stars reviews on Chewy.
3. American Journey Limited Ingredient Grain-Free Salmon & Sweet Potato
Of all the best limited ingredient dog food, this is the cheapest. This product is quite similar to the natural balance mentioned previously. Their recipes contain sweet potato and fish recipes. The source of protein for this food is a single animal. It also has the problem of a low percentage of fats and protein.
The recipe is grain-free, which makes it easily digestible, and it contains no grain, no soy, or poultry by-products. This formula is suitable for all breeds, sizes, and ages of dogs. If your dog hates fish, then you should not get this food for them. With this product, you do not have to change your dog’s diet once you start feeding it. That is because it is suitable for all sizes and ages of dogs.
Features
- Very cheap.
- Easy to digest
- Contains lots of vegetables which make up for the low level of carbohydrates.
- Single source of animal protein.
Why you should buy
The major reason why people go for this product is that it is the cheapest available on the market. The price should not make you forget the fact that this product is made from fish, so if your dog hates fish please detest from buying this product. Also, this food works for all sizes of dogs whether large or small.
Pros
- High level of Omega 3 and 6.
- Cheapest among all products available.
- Easy to digest.
- Made in the USA.
Cons
- Low percentage of fat and protein.
Customer’s Review
This product has a 4.4 out of 5 stars review on Chewy.
4. Blue Buffalo Basics Limited Ingredient Diet Turkey & Potato Recipe Puppy Dry Dog Food
This food is a combination of turkey and potato recipe, which has been made specifically for dogs that have sensitive stomachs. This easily digestible food has potato has its main source of carbohydrate. This limited ingredient dog food is recommended for puppies because of the small kibbles.
Combining this food with phosphorus and calcium would ensure your pup has healthy teeth, bones, and gums. Since this food is for puppies, you would have to change to adult food when your dog has reached that stage of development. This food has a below-average percentage of fat 13% and protein 22%. Though this should be enough to support the growth of an average puppy.
Features
- Single source of animal protein.
- No poultry by-products.
- Special sized kibble to help tartar removal.
Why you should buy
This food is perfect for your puppy, and it is relatively cheap. If you want strong teeth and gums for your dog, then you should go for the Blue Buffalo Basics Limited Ingredient, for dog owners with a sensitive stomach, this is your choice. If you do not know how sensitive your puppy is, then this food is also recommended.
Pros
- Very cheap.
- High level of Omega 3 and 6.
- Designed for only puppies.
Cons
- Low level of fat and protein.
- Not suitable for adult dogs.
Customer’s Review
This product has a 4.0 out of 5-star reviews on Chewy.
5. Rachael Ray Nutrish Just 6 Natural Lamb Meal & Brown Rice Limited Ingredient
This dry dog food contains just 6 ingredients, and they have been improved with extra vitamins and minerals. For dogs with allergies, and you do not know which ingredient to remove from the diet, this is the food you should buy when you want to convert your dog to a limited ingredient dog food. Though the protein and fat are below average, 20% and 13% respectively.
Though the limited ingredient would cause a low percentage of protein and fat, the good part is that the protein is sourced from only animals, no vegetable protein can be found in this dry dog food. Animal protein is easily digested and more nutritious than vegetable-derived protein.
Features
- Only animal protein.
- Great for dogs with allergies.
- Easily digestible.
Why you should buy
The fact that this product is made from only animal-sourced protein is enough for you to buy this product, then it is suitable for dogs with severe allergies that need limited ingredient dog food. The price is just icing on the cake.
Pros
- Very cheap.
- Easy digestion.
Customer’s Review
This product has a 4.0 out of 5 stars review on Chewy.
6. CANIDAE Grain-Free PURE Real Salmon & Sweet Potato Recipe Dry Dog Food
If you need high quality for your dog food, CANIDAE grain-free would come through for you. This food comprises of nutrition which is guaranteed to keep your dog safe and healthy for a very long time.
It contains just 8 ingredients namely; potatoes, salmon, sweet potatoes, salmon meal, peas, canola oil, sun-cured alfalfa, and menhaden fish meal. This food is enriched by vitamins, minerals, and a probiotics mix. The food provides protein and fat of 32%, 18% respectively. With this above-average percentage, your dog would develop faster and maintain its muscle fibers.
Features
- High percentage of fat and protein.
- Contains a high nutritional level.
- It is dry dog food.
Why you should buy
For those that can afford it, this limited ingredient dog food would work wonders for your dog. The price is definitely worth the nutritional content your dog would derive from eating this formula. However, if your dog does not like the smell of fish, you should not buy this product.
Pros
- High percentage of fat and protein.
- Suitable for any breed of dog.
Customer’s Review
This product has a 4.2 out of 5 stars review on Chewy.
7. Wellness Simple Limited Ingredient Diet Grain-Free Turkey & Potato Formula
Only the finest natural quality ingredients were used in making this amazing dog food. This is one of the best limited ingredient dog food available in the market, and it contains only 8 ingredients, they are; salmon meal, potatoes, peas, dried ground potatoes, salmon, tomato pomace, canola oil, and ground flaxseed. No by-products were used in making this formula.
If your dog reacts to any of the ingredients, you can always check the other types of dog foods available. This formula contains 25% protein which is derived from only animal protein, and it also contains omega 3 and 6. The nutritional level of this food is a force for other brands to reckon with.
Features
- High nutritional level.
- No by-products were used in making this product.
- Only quality natural ingredients were used with no flavors or additives.
Why you should buy
If the price is within your budget, you should go for this product, it has a high level of protein and also contains omega 3 and 6 which would promote the skin and coat of your dog.
Pros
- High nutritional value.
- Available for all breeds.
- Only natural ingredients were used.
Cons
- Very expensive.
Customer’s Review
This product has a 3.5 out of a 5-star review on chewy.
8. Nutro Limited Ingredient Diet Grain-Free Adult Large Breed Lamb & Sweet Potato
This lamb and potato-based food are made for large dogs, but it is a bit behind when compared with other best limited ingredient dog food. It contains 10 ingredients which is a bit much considering that it should be a limited ingredient food.
This product makes use of animal and potato protein which is not advisable for your dog to consume because it can cause digestion problems. Also, the price is just too high for the benefit it provides.
Features
- Has a percentage of 20% protein and 13% fat.
- Available for only large dog breeds.
Why you should buy
You can purchase this product if you have a dog that prefers a lamb based meal. If not, other brands of the same price bracket that offer better benefits.
Pros
- High level of vitamins and minerals.
Cons
- Too expensive.
- Causes digestion problems.
Customer’s Review
This product has a 4.5 out of 5 stars review on Chewy.
9. Zignature Turkey Limited Ingredient Formula Grain-Free Dry Dog Food
If you are looking to buy a turkey-based meal, this is a great option for you. This premium limited ingredient formula is filled with 31% protein and 18% fat. This is an above-average percentage which is great for bone and muscle development.
Though this food contains more ingredients than a conventional limited ingredient dog feed, the ingredients your dog might be allergic to have been removed from this food. It contains carrots, cranberries, and blueberries which would help with digestion.
Features
- Contains vitamins and antioxidants.
- Contains Omega 3 and 6.
- Free from allergic ingredients.
Why you should buy
This product has been vouched for by numerous customers through positive feedbacks and reviews. Also, contains natural ingredients which would help your dog with easy digestion
Pros
- Easy digestion.
- Provides muscle and bone support.
- High level of protein and fat.
Customer’s Review
This product has a 4.5 out of 5 stars review on Chewy.
10. Merrick Limited Ingredient Diet Grain-Free Real Lamb & Chickpeas Recipe Dry Dog Food
This is an all-rounder for a limited ingredient dog food. This food contains only 8 ingredients, which include; sunflower oil, deboned lamb, chickpeas, lamb meal, natural flavor, flaxseed, peas, and lentils.
There is also omega 3 and 6 to help support and maintain a healthy coat and skin. It contains a protein percentage of 26% and 16% for fats. These would aid easy digestion for your dog.
Features
- Contains omega 3 and 6 fatty acids.
- Limited ingredients were combined.
- Only natural ingredients were used.
Why you should buy
There are more than enough reasons for you to but this product, the price is nothing compared to what you would gain from this brand. If you believe the other products you have seen in this list of best limited ingredient dog food are amazing, this is the king of them all.
Pros
- Contains the required level of nutrients for your dog.
- Price is right for the benefits.
- Available for all breeds of dogs
Customer’s Review
This product has a 3 out of 5 stars review on Chewy.
Final thoughts on Best Limited Ingredient Dog Food in 2023
There is not much left to say, but ensure that whichever limited ingredient dog food you select is right for your dog and also within your budget. Some other brands and products that have not been listed here, you can check out more on types of food for dogs via our website.
Hopefully, this list has been able to help you in your quest to getting the right food for your dog. Follow the steps pointed out, do the right thing, and watch your dog grow in perfect health.
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Forrest is a lover of dogs, the wild outdoors, deep mysterious conversations… and coffee. He is the owner of several websites, including Canine Weekly. He resides in Austin, Texas.