Hypoallergenic dog treats

What makes a dog treat hypoallergenic?

A hypoallergenic treat is formulated to minimize the risk of an allergic reaction. It starts with the protein source. Dogs most often react to proteins they’ve been eating for years, such as chicken or beef. That’s why hypoallergenic dog treats use proteins that few dogs have eaten before. The same principle applies to hypoallergenic food: the less familiar the protein, the lower the chance that the body will react to it.

You can also recognize a hypoallergenic treat by a few common features:

• unique protein sources, such as horse, venison, duck, goat or white fish;
• no grains or gluten;
• no artificial colors, fragrances or flavors;
• often pure meat or fish, with a short ingredient list.

Hypoallergenic and grain-free are often confused, but they don’t mean the same thing. Grain-free dog treats contain no grains, but can still be made with chicken or beef. Hypoallergenic treats are primarily about the protein source. Our hypoallergenic treats are also grain-free and gluten-free, so you can be sure on both counts.

To be honest, hypoallergenic doesn’t mean a dog can never react. It means the chances are much lower.

Hypoallergenic dog treats for sensitive dogs

Does your dog often scratch, lick their paws or have recurring ear problems? Or do they have inconsistent stools and an upset stomach after eating? These signs could point to a food allergy or intolerance. Itching that keeps coming back is another common sign.

Every bite matters for these dogs, including treats. There’s little point in carefully feeding hypoallergenic dog food and then giving them a treat with chicken or wheat. Choose a treat that fits with the rest of your dog’s diet. If your dog has a sensitive stomach, a treat with simple ingredients is often gentler on their stomach.

If the symptoms keep coming back, or you’re unsure what your dog can and can’t tolerate, talk to your vet. Better to call once too often than not often enough.

Which hypoallergenic treat is right for your dog?

A training treat calls for something different from a chew for relaxing on the couch. So first consider what you want to use the treat for.

Hypoallergenic training treats

When you train with your dog, you give lots of rewards in a short time. Hypoallergenic training treats are small, easy to carry in your pocket, and quick to eat. This helps keep your dog’s attention without giving him too much. In our training treats you’ll find both soft and crunchy varieties.

Hypoallergenic dog treats

Sometimes you just want to spoil your dog without giving a command first. After a long walk, or because he waited so patiently by the door. That’s when hypoallergenic dog treats are ideal. These small, tasty dog treats are gentle on sensitive stomachs, so you can treat your dog without worry.

Hypoallergenic chew sticks and chews

Chewing is about more than food for dogs. It helps them relax, unwind, and stay busy when they’re bored. Hypoallergenic chew sticks and other hypoallergenic dog chews last a long time. Try dried deer hide, roe deer hide, horse hide, salmon skin, or lamb spaghetti.

Many dog chews are air-dried. They dry slowly, which helps them retain their natural texture. Oven-dried treats are often a little harder and crunchier.

What should you look for when choosing?

Choosing between a few hypoallergenic dog treats? These tips will help you decide quickly.

• Protein source. Choose a protein your dog tolerates well, or one recommended by your vet. Options include treats made with horse, deer, duck and salmon.
• Ingredients. The shorter the ingredient list, the easier it is to see what your dog is eating.
• Texture. A puppy or senior dog may prefer soft treats, while an enthusiastic chewer may prefer hard treats.
• Size. A treat should suit your dog’s size so they can chew it properly rather than swallow it whole.
• Calories. If you reward your dog often, choose small pieces or a lower-calorie treat.

How many treats should you give per day?

Treats are tasty, but they count toward your dog’s daily intake. As a rule of thumb, treats should make up no more than about 10% of your dog’s daily energy intake. If you do a lot of training with hypoallergenic training treats, give a little less at mealtime. If you’re watching your dog’s weight, then low-calorie treats a smart choice.

Order hypoallergenic dog treats

With Riverwood's hypoallergenic dog treats, you can reward your dog without worry. They're grain- and gluten-free, contain no artificial additives, and are made with unique protein sources. Order on a weekday before 3:00 p.m. and we'll ship your order the same day. You can pay securely, including after delivery, and read what other pet owners think of us on Trustpilot.

Would you rather smell and feel them for yourself first? Riverwood is also available at a pet store near you. And if you'd like to try the food as well as the treats, a trial pack is an easy way to get started.

Frequently asked questions

Is grain-free the same as hypoallergenic?

No. Grain-free means the treat contains no grains. Hypoallergenic refers to the protein source: a protein that few dogs are familiar with, so the risk of a reaction is lower. Whether grain-free is really better for your dogdepends on what they need.

My dog is allergic to chicken. Which treats can I give them?

Choose a treat with a protein your dog isn't familiar with, such as horse, venison, goat, or whitefish. Be sure to check the ingredient list, as some treats combine two protein sources. Turkey and duck are also poultry. If you're unsure, consult your veterinarian.

Are hypoallergenic treats suitable for puppies?

Some of the treats are also suitable for puppies. Choose small, soft pieces and check the product details to see what age the treat is suitable for. We also have puppy treats.

Are the treats also suitable for cats?

Some treats are suitable for both dogs and cats. This is always stated on the product page. Looking for something specifically for your cat? Browse our cat treats.

What's the difference between air-dried and oven-dried?

Air-dried treats dry slowly, preserving their natural texture. Oven-dried treats are often crispier. You'll find both among our dried treats.

How should I store the treats after opening?

Seal the bag tightly after use and store it in a cool, dry place out of direct sunlight. The packaging tells you how long the treats stay fresh after opening.