Gluten-free dog food is usually made without wheat, barley, rye, or other gluten-containing grains. These special formulas usually prioritize digestible ingredients and high-quality animal proteins while eliminating gluten as a potential irritant. They can be a great choice for dogs with sensitive stomachs or pet parents seeking clean-label nutrition. While gluten intolerance in dogs is relatively rare, some dogs experience better digestion or fewer skin issues on a gluten-free diet.
Things to look for when shopping for gluten-free dog food include:
No wheat, rye, or barley: Look for foods without these common gluten-containing grains if you're trying to eliminate gluten from your dog's diet.
Limited-ingredient or grain-free recipes: Many pet parents prefer gluten-free recipes free of grain and other common irritants that can upset sensitive stomachs.
Rich in quality protein: Recipes with meat-based proteins like chicken, beef, lamb, or fish as the first ingredient help your pup get the easily digestible protein they need to thrive.
Nutritional profile: Be sure to select a complete and balanced formula appropriate for your dog's age, breed, and size.
Dry and wet formulas: Choose from kibble and canned food formats to suit your pup's unique taste and needs.
Whether your dog has a specific sensitivity or you simply prefer a grain-free approach, gluten-free dog food can help support digestion, skin health, and overall well-being. Chewy carries a wide selection of gluten-free dog food varieties, including both dry and wet foods, limited-ingredient recipes, and grain-free options. Once you find the perfect ones, be sure to set all your pup's favorites to Autoship, so you'll always have plenty on hand.
Gluten isn't necessarily bad for dogs, but some dogs may develop sensitivities that lead to itchy skin, digestive upset, or chronic inflammation. In some of these cases, removing gluten may help ease symptoms. If your dog is experiencing allergies, skin irritation, or digestive issues, talk to your vet about possible causes and strategies for managing symptoms, including dietary changes.
Gluten-free dog food is different from grain-free in that it may still contain certain grains. Grain-free dog food excludes all grains, including rice, oats, and corn, while gluten-free food eliminates only gluten-containing grains like wheat, rye, and barley. Some gluten-free formulas still include non-gluten grains such as brown rice, oats, quinoa, or millet.
The best way to know if a dog food is gluten-free is to check the ingredient list and product labeling. Look for "gluten-free" on the label and verify that the ingredients don't include wheat, barley, rye, or other gluten-containing ingredients. If your dog has a medical condition requiring a gluten-free diet, consult your vet for expert guidance.
Save 5% on repeat deliveries