As responsible pet owners, we strive to provide our furry companions with the best nutrition possible. Finding the right dog food can be challenging for dogs with allergies, sensitivities, or dietary restrictions. If you’re looking for dry dog food options that exclude chicken, you’ve come to the right place. In this blog post, we will explore the world of chicken-free dry dog food and introduce you to some of the best brands and formulas available on the market today.
While chicken is a common ingredient in many dog foods, it may not suit all dogs. Some dogs may have allergies or sensitivities to chicken protein, requiring a diet that avoids this ingredient. Luckily, plenty of high-quality dry dog food options cater to these needs, providing balanced nutrition without compromising on taste or quality.
5 Best dry dog food without chicken
Here, we will review the top five best dog foods without chicken available on the market. These selections have been made based on personal opinion, extensive research, popularity, quality, price, durability, and user opinions.
1. Wag High Protein Dry Dog Food Lamb & Lentil Recipe, Grain Free
Wag Dry Dog Food is a popular choice for those seeking a chicken-free option for their dogs. With Australian lamb as the primary protein source, it boasts an impressive crude protein percentage of 35%. The inclusion of plant-based proteins like flaxseed further enhances its nutritional value.
| Features | Description |
|---|---|
| Real Australian Lamb Ingredient | Provides a delicious blend for your pup |
| Nutritious Vegetables (Lentils and Peas) | Rich in vitamins, minerals, antioxidants, and phytonutrients |
| Salmon Oil and Flaxseed | Contains omega-3 fatty acids, including long-chain DHA |
| No Added Grain, Corn, or Wheat | Suitable for dogs with grain sensitivities |
| No Added Artificial Colors, Flavors, or Chemical Preservatives | Ensures a natural and healthy diet for your dog |
| Made in California, USA | Manufactured in a family-owned facility using trusted, high-quality sources from around the world |
| Formulated with Veterinarians and Pet Nutritionist | Recipes developed with professional expertise to meet your dog’s nutritional needs |
| Gradual Transitioning | Recommends a 7-10 day transition period when switching to Wag food to help avoid dietary upsets |
Wag’s formula stands out with added amino acids like taurine, D.H.A., and salmon oil, making it a nutritious and flavorful choice for dogs.
2. The Honest Kitchen Human Grade Dehydrated Whole Grain Dog Food
The Honest Kitchen is known for its commitment to using human-grade ingredients in their small dog food. Their Whole Grain Turkey Recipe is a dehydrated option that ensures high-quality nutrition without chicken.
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Main Ingredients | Cage-free turkey, organic oats, and apples |
| Nutrient Retention | Gently dehydrated for maximum nutrient retention and digestion |
| Suitability | Complete and balanced nutrition for adult dogs of all breeds and sizes, including seniors |
| Preparation | Easy homemade meal – just add warm water for a wholesome and delicious meal |
| Versatility | Can be served alone as a complete meal or used as a topper for dry food |
| Quality Standards | 100% human grade ingredients produced in a human food facility |
| Safety | Higher quality ingredients and safety standards, similar to human food |
| Exclusions | No preservatives, by-products, fillers, GMO ingredients, corn, wheat, or soy |
| Origin | Natural dog food made in the USA with trusted sources from around the world. |
Featuring cage-free turkey as the single protein source, it exceeds F.D.A. safety standards. This brand’s dedication to quality and the dehydration process make it an excellent choice for dogs with dietary restrictions.
3. Instinct Limited Ingredient Diet Grain-Free Recipe with Real Salmon Natural Dry Dog Food
Instinct offers a limited-ingredient diet recipe that is entirely free from chicken. Real salmon is the primary protein source, making it suitable for dogs prone to allergic reactions. The grain and dairy-free formula ensures a wholesome meal for sensitive canines.
| Features | Instinct Limited Ingredient Dog Food |
|---|---|
| Grain-Free Formula | Yes |
| Protein Source | 1 Protein (Wild Caught Salmon) |
| Vegetable Source | 1 Vegetable (Not specified) |
| Excluded Ingredients | Dairy, Eggs, Chicken, Beef, Fish, Sweet Potato, Potato, Chickpeas, Corn, Wheat, Soy, Artificial Colors, Preservatives |
| Raw Coated Kibble | Yes |
| Freeze Dried Raw Coating | Yes |
| Nutrition and Taste | Delicious and Healthy Flavor |
| Suitable for Dogs with Food Allergies | Yes |
| Made with Real Meat and Whole Foods | Yes |
| Protein Packed and Minimally Processed | Yes |
| Country of Origin | Made in the USA with ingredients from around the world |
| Comparison to Other Brands | Blue Buffalo, Rachel Ray, Hills Science Diet, Purina One, Taste of the Wild, Merrick, Natural Balance, Wellness, Orijen, Royal Canin, Zignature, Nutro |
Instinct’s commitment to providing a single animal protein and vegetable blend sets it apart from other brands, catering to dogs with specific dietary needs.
4. ORIJEN Dry Dog Food, Six Fish, Grain Free & Poultry Free, High Protein, Fresh & Raw Animal Ingredients
Orijen’s Six Fish formula is an exceptional option for dog owners seeking a chicken-free diet. This premium product combines six varieties of whole wild-caught, sustainable fish, providing a taste that dogs will love.
| Features | Description |
|---|---|
| Fresh, Whole Fish Ingredients | Contains Atlantic mackerel, herring, monkfish, Acadian redfish, flounder, and silver hake as rich and varied protein sources. |
| 85% Quality Animal Ingredients | Provides a high percentage of animal ingredients to meet dogs’ natural, biological needs. |
| Biologically Appropriate Diet | Offers a grain-free formula that mimics the diet dogs have evolved to eat, with fresh and raw animal ingredients. |
| Fresh Regional Ingredients | Sources ingredients from trusted suppliers, delivered fresh or raw, maintaining their natural and nourishing qualities. |
With an impressive 85% protein content, this grain-free option ensures a highly nutritious meal. Orijen’s commitment to quality and innovative cooking methods make it a top contender in the chicken-free dog food market.
5. Natural Balance Limited Ingredient Adult Grain-Free Dry Dog Food
Natural Balance is a trusted brand known for its limited-ingredient diets. The L.I.D. Grain-Free Salmon and Sweet Potato Formula is a great choice for dogs with food allergies or sensitivities. Balanced omega-6 and omega-3 fatty acids support healthy skin and coat.
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| First Animal Protein Source | Salmon is the primary animal protein source, providing essential protein and amino acids for muscles. |
| Grain-Free Fiber Source | Sweet potatoes are included as a grain-free source of fiber, supporting digestive health. |
| Sensitive Pets | Simplified list of premium ingredients supports a healthy coat, skin, and digestive system. |
| Limited Ingredients | No added grain, soy, gluten, or artificial colors or flavors, making it suitable for sensitive pets. |
| Nutrient-Rich Recipe | Crafted with nutritious ingredients like sweet potatoes and flaxseed for a healthy immune system. |
| Suitable for All Dogs | Designed for all dogs, not just those with specific sensitivities or allergies. |
| Safety and Transparency | Natural Balance tests every batch for safety and offers validation on their website or through support. |
| Bag Size | Contains a 24-pound bag of the product. |
Including nutritious fruits and vegetables mimics the natural diet of dogs’ ancestors. Natural Balance’s rigorous testing and commitment to quality ensure a safe and wholesome meal for your furry friend.
Can I feed my dog only dry food?
Yes, you can feed your dog only dry food. Dogs can be perfectly healthy and thrive on a dry dog food diet. Quality dry dog food provides all the essential nutrients and elements necessary for their overall health and well-being. While individual tastes and preferences may differ, the nutritional properties of dry food meet the dietary requirements of dogs and support their healthy and active lifestyle.
What can I feed my dog, who is allergic to chicken?
If your dog is allergic to chicken, you can feed them a protein source that is different from chicken. Options like beef or less common proteins such as rabbit or venison are often suitable for dogs with chicken allergies.
However, it is crucial to consult with your veterinarian to determine the best food options and conduct a food trial to identify and manage any potential allergies.
What kind of dog food does not have chicken in it?
There are various types of dog food available that do not contain chicken. Here are some common options:
- Lamb-based dog food: Dog food made with lamb as the primary protein source is a popular alternative to chicken-based formulas. Lamb provides a nutritious protein option and is suitable for dogs with chicken allergies or sensitivities.
- Fish-based dog food: Fish-based formulas, such as those containing salmon, whitefish, or trout, offer an excellent source of protein without chicken. Fish-based dog food is often rich in omega-3 fatty acids, which are beneficial for skin and coat health.
- Novel protein sources: Some dog foods utilize novel protein sources like duck, turkey, venison, or bison. These alternative protein options provide variety and can be suitable for dogs with chicken allergies or those on elimination diets.
- Vegetarian or vegan dog food: Vegetarian or vegan dog food options exclude all animal-based ingredients, including chicken. These formulas typically use plant-based proteins like soy, peas, lentils, or quinoa to meet a dog’s nutritional requirements.
- Limited ingredient diets (L.I.D.s): L.I.D.s are designed to minimize potential allergens by featuring a limited number of ingredients. Some L.I.D. dog food options are specifically formulated to be free of chicken, focusing on alternative protein sources and avoiding common allergens.
Video: Top 5 Dog Foods Without Chicken
Conclusion
Choosing the right dog food is crucial for your pet’s health and well-being. The five brands reviewed here offer excellent options for owners looking to avoid chicken in their dog’s diet. Whether it’s Wag, The Honest Kitchen, Instinct, Orijen, or Natural Balance, each brand provides unique features and high-quality ingredients.