Signs Your Dog May Need an Allergy-Friendly Diet (and What to Feed Them)

Explore ethically sourced, novel protein diets crafted for dogs with sensitivities available locally at Raw Fed and Furry.

Does your dog constantly scratch, deal with recurring ear infections, or have digestive issues that just don’t seem to clear up? You’re not alone. Many pet owners across Ottawa are realizing that what’s in their dog’s bowl may be at the root of chronic discomfort.

The good news? Diet-based allergies are more common than people think—and the right food can make all the difference. At Raw Fed and Furry, we help dog owners transition to novel protein dog food that supports healthier skin, better digestion, and overall wellness.

What Are the Signs of a Food Allergy in Dogs?

Allergies in dogs often show up differently than they do in humans. Instead of sneezing or watery eyes, your dog’s symptoms are usually skin- or gut-related. If you’ve ruled out seasonal triggers and pests like fleas, here are common signs that food could be the culprit:

• Persistent scratching or licking

• Red, irritated skin or hotspots

• Recurrent ear infections

• Vomiting or loose stool

• Gas or bloating

• Poor coat condition or hair loss

• Excessive paw chewing or face rubbing
  

These issues may build slowly, making them easy to overlook—until they become chronic. If you’re seeing two or more of these symptoms, it may be time to consider a dietary shift.

What Is a Novel Protein Diet?

A novel protein is simply a protein source your dog hasn't eaten before. Common examples include:

• Turkey

• Duck

• Rabbit

• Venison

• Kangaroo

• Goat
  

Why does this matter? Dogs typically develop allergies to proteins they’ve been overexposed to—chicken, beef, and lamb are common culprits. Switching to a less familiar protein helps reduce inflammation and allows your dog’s system to “reset.”

At Raw Fed and Furry, we offer a variety of novel protein dog food options, including turkey-based meals one of the most easily digestible proteins available.

How to Know When to Try a Novel Protein Diet

If your dog has been on the same commercial food for years—or you’re seeing escalating allergy symptoms now is the time to explore an elimination approach. Here’s what typically leads dog owners in Ottawa to our storefront or online shop:

• Vets recommending diet changes after allergy testing

• Frustration with recurring skin conditions despite medications

• A desire to move toward more natural, species-appropriate feeding

• Trial-and-error attempts with “hypoallergenic” kibble that failed
  

We regularly work with pet owners referred by veterinarians or nutritionists to build transition plans that take your dog’s history and sensitivities into account.

Hypoallergenic vs. Novel Protein Dog Food: What’s the Difference?

Hypoallergenic dog food typically includes hydrolyzed proteins—meaning the proteins are broken down into small molecules unlikely to trigger an immune response. While this can be effective, it’s also a heavily processed solution.

Novel protein diets focus instead on whole, high-quality proteins your dog hasn’t been exposed to, offering a more natural route to symptom relief. When paired with minimal ingredients and no fillers or preservatives, this approach can support long-term health and immune balance.

At Raw Fed and Furry, our formulations are free from artificial additives and unnecessary grains, making them a preferred option for families who value transparency and clean nutrition.

Transitioning to a Novel Protein Diet: What to Expect

Starting a new feeding plan doesn’t have to be complicated. Here's how to safely introduce a novel protein diet to your dog:

1. Start With a Clean Slate

Avoid feeding multiple new proteins at once. Choose one source (like turkey) and monitor how your dog responds over two to four weeks.

2. Simplify the Ingredients

Go for a limited-ingredient formula to help isolate any potential sensitivities. Avoid treats and supplements unless they match the main protein.

3. Observe and Adjust

Watch for improvements in digestion, skin condition, and energy. While some dogs improve within days, others may take a few weeks to show results.

4. Reach Out for Support

We’re here to help. Whether it’s an in-store chat or a quick email, we offer personalized support to ensure the transition is as smooth as possible.

Why Choose Raw Fed and Furry in Ottawa?

We’re not just another pet food retailer. We’re a dedicated resource for pet owners who want more transparency, more control, and better outcomes for their dogs. Here’s what sets us apart:

• Local Expertise: Located in Orleans, ON, we serve families throughout Ottawa and surrounding areas.

• Trusted Sourcing: All of our raw food options are ethically sourced and rigorously vetted.

• Specialized Formulas: Choose from novel proteins tailored for dogs with food sensitivities.

• Personalized Guidance: In-store or online, our team helps you find the right product for your dog’s needs.

• Convenient Ordering: Buy online and pick up in-store, or have it delivered locally.
  

We believe your dog deserves the same quality of food you expect for yourself. That means real ingredients, real support, and real results.

Client Success Stories

"If you're looking for a high quality, high protein raw dog food, Raw Fed & Furry is an excellent choice. We can see it in our dog's coat and energy. Our dog was born with a skin disease that caused his hair to fall out. Once we fed him raw, his coat and mood improved dramatically."SALT WAVE (Local Guide)

"Great raw food supplier! Our two Alaskan Malamutes absolutely love the Premium and Chicken Mix. Their coats are shinier, teeth whiter, and stools are less stinky and smaller—overall a much healthier outcome."

F Mu (Local Guide)

"Amazing service. Always helpful. Been getting raw food from Garth since he opened and he has always gone above and beyond. My dogs love his food and are in the best health they have been."David Beraki

Still Unsure What to Feed Your Allergy-Prone Dog?

If your current food isn’t working, the signs are clear—and it’s time for a better solution. A novel protein diet could be the key to giving your dog relief without harsh medications or expensive trial-and-error routines.

We invite you to explore our selection of hypoallergenic and novel protein options, including our customer-favorite turkey-based raw meals. They’re a gentle, digestible choice for sensitive dogs and they’re available right here in Ottawa.

Visit Us or Contact Our Team

Raw Fed and Furry 5929 Jeanne D’arc Blvd S Unit 9 Orleans, ON, Canada, K1C 2N1

Store Hours Wed–Fri: 12pm – 6pm Sat–Sun: 12pm – 4pm

Contact Us

 Email: thatsrawsome@gmail.com

 Phone: (343) 883-1818