5 Best Dog Food For Dachshunds With Skin Allergies

Dachshunds are one of the most energetic, brave, and high-spirited dogs. They were reared more than 300 years ago in Germany to chase badgers. 

They are observant, caring, and curious family hounds. But, these short-statured pooches are prone to skin allergies, so as a pet owner, you will need to know what the signs of skin allergies are and how to manage those signs. 

The majority of them have food allergies. The most common food allergens are beef, chicken, eggs, and grains. Many people don’t believe that protein sources can also cause skin allergies. 

That’s why; they transition their dogs to grain-free best dog food for dachshunds with skin allergies before eliminating protein sources. 

The best approach is to remove all the ingredients from their diet that we mentioned above. You can also try limited ingredient, grain-free, and single protein source foods. 

Once you find out which protein and grain sources agree with your little one, it is best to look for whole and balanced diets that include those protein and grain sources. 

The food should also contain omegas, antioxidants, and minerals for healthy skin and coat and a strong immune system. Fillers, unnecessary additives, and preservatives should not be present in them.

Of course, it is a lengthy process, but once you determine what your beloved family member can and cannot consume, you will be able to save time and money in the long term and also have a healthy and happy canine.

Fortunately, the market is flooded with the best food for a dachshund with allergies, so it can be tough for you to pick the right one for your dog.

But this is the reason we are here—to assist you to discover the right formula for your four-legged baby. 

We have designed a list of the top 5 best dog foods as well as a detailed buying guide to enlighten you on what to look for in dog food. Also, you will get to know about their nutritional needs, common skin allergies and their treatment, and much more.

What Are The Nutritional Needs Of Dachshunds?

The average weight of a mature dachshund is around 30 pounds and he requires a minimum of 800 to 900 calories every day. 

If he performs physical activity regularly, he will need 1000 calories a day. All hounds have different metabolic rates, so their caloric consumption will also be different from each other. 

Needless to say, exercise plays a significant role. A highly active canine will need more calories, whereas a less active mutt will need fewer calories. Make sure to feed them a well-adjusted proportion of fat, carbs, protein, and vitamins.

What Nutrients Do Dachshunds Need?

They need premium-quality dog food for dachshunds that deliver a higher amount of protein, a reasonable amount of fat, and a limited quantity of carbs to meet their micronutrient needs. 

They don’t have particular requirements for carbohydrates in their food and some pooches can’t even digest them.

They also have a greater threat of allergies than other canines, so you should exclude carb ingredients that might cause allergies such as soy, corn, and wheat. 

It is better to feed them grain-free carbs such as beans, legumes, etc. because they are easy to digest and also rich in nutrients. 

When your dachshund accomplishes his grownup weight and height, you should feed him 18% protein and 5% fat. 

If he is extremely active, he will need more fat for energy, but keep the fat moderate to prevent obesity. You can feed him food thrice a day. 

Seniors are not so active, so their hazard of unhealthy weight gain increases with growing age. 

Serve them the best food for a dachshund with lean protein and moderate fat. Two to three meals a day are enough for senior dachshunds.

How Much Should An Adult Dachshund Eat?

Various factors such as activity level, the food you are feeding, age, weight, etc. have a huge impact on how much they should eat. 

A senior hound that sleeps on the bed the whole day needs less food than a young dog that performs a physical activity.

To keep them healthy, you should not just count the calories, but provide them with the optimal percentage of protein, vitamins, and other vital nutrients. 

So, feed him food based on his weight to determine if the best dog food for Dachshunds with skin allergies you are serving him has the right level of fat, protein, and carbs, regardless of whether it’s dry, canned, or raw food. 

If he is over or underweight, decrease or increase the calories and micronutrients by 10%.

How Much Should A Senior Dachshund Eat?

In his senior age, he will slow down a little bit and won’t be able to manage a lot of food. Therefore, you will need to reduce his food according to his activity levels. 

However, keep a strict eye on his weight and ensure he does not gain or lose too much. We would recommend you talk to your vet to know how much food you should feed to your senior dachshund. 

He will tell you what his current weight is and what his weight should be. Then, it will be easy for you to determine daily food proportions.  

Adult Dachshund Feeding Chart By Age

Dog Age	Amount Of Food Per Day	Number Of Meals
7 To 8 Months	6 To 12 Ounces	2
9 To 10 Months	5 To 11 Ounces	2
10 To 12 Months	4 To 11 Ounces	2

What Treats Should You Give To Dachshunds?

Treats are an important part of their healthy and balanced diet. As they are predisposed to obesity, so choose the healthiest options.

• Natural Treats

You can feed them small pieces of broccoli, carrots, watermelon, or cucumber.

• Treat-Filled Toy

Kong toy filled with peanut butter or mashed banana is also a great option for them, but, not all dachshunds like these treats.

• Packaged Treats

Offer them packaged treats that don’t contain synthetic colors, flavors, and preservatives.  

Dental Chews And Dried Treats

These little dogs love dental chews. If you can feed them the natural ones, they are excellent for their dental health. Besides, you can give them dried sprats, minnows, venison sausages, and liver treats as well.

How Often Should You Feed Dachshunds?

Your mature dachshund will be in good physical shape when he is following a stable daily feeding routine. 

You can divide the best food for a dachshund with allergies according to your will, but make sure he is acquiring the appropriate quantity of food every day.

It is better to feed them twice a day. Some folks feed their canines 25% food in the morning and 75% food in the evening. 

On the other hand, senior dachshunds have a slow metabolic rate, so you can give them food once a day. 

Keep an eye on his weight and talk to your vet if he is losing excessive weight or becoming obese.

What Type Of Food Should Dachshunds Eat?

These gorgeous mutts love to eat, so they will consume almost everything you feed them. 

But they must obtain the required nutrition from the dog food for a dachshund to stay healthy and fit. Here are the foods they can eat:

Homemade Food

You can prepare food for them at home if you want. However, you should be aware of their nutritional needs and make sure you are fulfilling their needs through the food. 

Pick foods that are natural and free from synthetic colors, flavors, and chemicals. Avoid foods that contain grains like soy, wheat, or corn if your dog has allergies.

Dry Food

You can feed them whole and balanced dry kibble. It is affordable and you can purchase it in a large quantity at once. You can store it for ages and it is also superb for their oral health.

Raw Food

These days, many pet owners feed raw food to their dachshunds. It is good for their skin and overall health. 

This diet sounds chaotic, but it is typically frozen into pieces or blocks, which you just put into your four-legged fellow’s dish to defrost.

Wet Food

Wet food is good for them only if it is “complete”. It should give them all the nutrients they need, without having to include dry food. 

Many dogs love this type of food because it has gravy with large pieces of mouthwatering meat.   

Organic Food

The market is saturated with organic dog foods. But, what does “organic” mean? 

They are similar to other kinds of diets, but the ingredients integrated into them are 100% organic. 

Their ingredients don’t have fertilizers, antibiotics, and other chemicals in them.

Semi-Moist Dog Food

This type of the best dog food for dachshunds with skin allergies is considered a treat or snack rather than a food. 

It does not have much nutritional value as it contains artificial colors, flavors, and preservatives. 

It is obtainable in different shapes such as bones, hamburgers, etc. Dogs love its soft and chewy texture.

What Dachshunds Can And Cannot Eat?

Can Eat	Cannot Eat
Carrots	Chocolate
Boneless Salmon	Raw Meats
Blackberries	Grapes And Raisins
Oatmeal	Fatty Meats
Bread	Dairy Products
Watermelon	Sweets And Sugar
Pineapple	Salt And Salty Foods
Blueberries	Onions And Garlic

How Much Water Should Dachshunds Drink?

Water makes up nearly 65% of their body weight. An adult pooch should drink one ounce or 1/8 cup of water per pound of his body weight per day. 

Though both kibble and canned food have a percentage of water, it is not enough to meet his daily fluids needs. 

Water should be available for them 24/7 because you don’t know when they will feel thirsty. 

To keep their water fresh and clean, use filtered bowls and wash them twice a week. 

If he won’t drink enough amount of water, he will become dehydrated, which is the biggest cause of various health problems. 15% dehydration is fatal.

Should You Feed Supplements To Dachshunds?

By feeding them balanced and stellar quality food, you can ensure that he is getting all the necessary nutrients he needs to stay healthy.

They will acquire all the vitamins and minerals from the food you are feeding them and won’t be able to tolerate additional ones. 

Hence, don’t give your adult mutt extra supplements unless the vet prescribes them. 

However, if you have a senior dachshund, you can add glucosamine and omega fatty acids supplements into your diet by consulting with the vet. 

The glucosamine supplement will relieve pain caused by hip dysplasia and other structural problems. Omega 3 and 6 fatty acids supplements will make their fur and skin healthy.

Common Health Issues Of Dachshunds

Just like other hounds, dachshunds are also prone to some health problems, so as a pet parent, you must feed them a high-quality diet that will support and improve their health and not work against them. 

Daily physical activity is critical for them. Remember, no best dog food for a dachshund or physical activity can do wonders and cure your furry companion’s potential health issues. However, a low-quality diet and no exercise can make the problems worse.

Anal Gland

Dachshunds have two anal glands that are located on either side of the anal. They should be emptied during the defecation. 

Nevertheless, if your doggie frequently suffers from constipation or diarrhea, he may not be able to empty them properly. It will cause accumulation, leakage, irritation, etc. 

Therefore, you should buy the best dog food for dachshunds with skin allergies that has enough fiber to produce soft stools. Prebiotics and probiotics also play a vital role in improving digestive health.

Intervertebral Disc Disease

As they have long spines and small legs, so they are susceptible to musculoskeletal disorders, including intervertebral disc disease. 

That’s why; you should feed them a highly nutritious diet that has glucosamine, omega-3 fatty acids, high protein content, vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants.

Obesity

These tiny canines gain weight quickly, and even a pound or two can make a significant transformation to their health. 

They are prone to IVDD; you can lower the threat by maintaining your dog’s weight to reduce pressure on his long spine. 

Some of them can put on weight by eating specific foods, while others will lose weight. Make sure not to overfeed them and also look for a diet that meets their dietary requirements. 

Urinary And Bladder Stones

Bladder and urinary stones can be very painful for hounds, so you should pay attention to any urinary and bladder problems bothering your furry buddy. 

The vet will prescribe a specifically designed dog food to help remove stones. So, talk to him before buying any food because a recommended food may be required.

Eye Problems

Dachshunds have stunning eyes but, sadly, they are predisposed to various types of eye issues, including progressive retinal atrophy, which is a genetic disease that makes the retina degenerate. This ailment can also make them blind. 

Some of them have cataracts and glaucoma. To prevent these issues, feed them a food that is rich in fish oil, beta carotene, vitamin A, lutein, and antioxidants.

Hip Dysplasia

Dachshunds commonly suffer from bone and joint-related problems, including hip dysplasia, which causes one or more hip joints to form improperly. 

It causes severe pain, inflammation, and then arthritis. If your dog walks unsteadily or finds it difficult to stand up, then he might be suffering from hip dysplasia. 

To keep bone and joint-related issues at the bay, serve your pooch the best dog food for dachshunds with skin allergies that contain glucosamine and chondroitin. 

Dachshund Skin Allergies And Conditions

They suffer from several skin allergies and problems that are as follows:

Color Dilution Alopecia

Color dilution alopecia is a hereditary disease, in which the coat becomes patchy and thin. It is found in chocolate, blue, and other diluted colors. 

Patches of baldness and hair loss on the ears, face, tail, legs, and trunk are the obvious signs of CDA. These signs will start between the age of 6 months and 3 years.

Because the skin is uncovered, they are then prone to tumors, skin infections, and skin ailments. 

To treat the secondary skin infections and problems, you will need to give them antibiotics recommended by the vet. Color dilution alopecia can’t be prevented.

Fleas Allergy/Dermatitis

Flea infestations can quickly make your dachshund weak and initiate other health issues. That’s why; you should make sure there are no fleas in your dog’s surroundings. 

If he is constantly biting, rubbing, or scratching, it means something is troubling him. Redness, itchy skin, and tiny bumps are also the symptoms of flea allergy. 

To prevent this issue, eliminate fleas from your house and put your mutt on the flea preventative medication. 

Yeast Infections

Another common skin problem that dachshunds suffer from is yeast infections. It happens in combination with Acanthosis nigricans or all by itself. 

Food or environmental allergies, hormonal imbalances, and reactions to antibiotics are the biggest causes of this infection. The signs include rashes, skin irritation, inflammation, foul-smelling infection, etc.

If your hound shows these symptoms, you should get in touch with your vet to find out what has instigated the overproduction of yeast, so the root cause can be addressed. 

It is necessary to resolve the primary issue first before treating the yeast infection; otherwise, it will come back again. 

To prevent it, you should feed him the best food for a dachshund with allergies, groom him properly, and regularly clean his ears. 

Pinnal Alopecia

Pineal alopecia is a condition in which hair loss starts on the ears of the dachshund. Sooner or later, it spreads over the entire or most of the body. 

Itching is not linked with this skin problem. It typically begins at the age of 6 and 12 months. In the late middle age, the affected canine’s hair is almost gone. 

The fundamental reason for it is unidentified but some vets believe that it is genetic and can happen instantly or progressively over time. 

This condition cannot be treated. As the root cause is still unknown, so it is also very difficult to prevent it.

Mange

It is an inflammatory disease that is caused by various species of mites that live on the hair and skin of the dachshunds. This condition has two types: demodectic mange and sarcoptic mange. 

Demodectic mange affects pooches that are less than 12 months old with another primary cause. On the other hand, sarcoptic mites are the root cause of sarcoptic mange. 

It is a severe condition and is often seen on the ears of the canines. Its signs include severe irritation, inflammation in the affected parts, and hair loss on the face and legs. 

Most of the time demodectic mange resolves itself without requiring any treatment. However, if your dog is suffering from secondary skin infections, you will need to offer him antibiotics. 

You will need to utilize flea preventative that removes mites, special shampoo, and antibiotics to treat the generalized demodectic mange. 

However, to prevent this skin disease, provide him superior quality dog food for dachshunds and a stress-free environment.

Also, keep him on the flea preventative medication that is normally given every 4 to 6 weeks. Regular bathing with a special shampoo can also help to prevent it.

Environmental Allergies

Environmental allergies are the major cause of skin issues. Grass, pollen, or any other material that exists in your dog’s surroundings can be the allergen. 

Its symptoms include intense itching, discharge from the eyes, sneezing, etc. 

You can treat seasonal environmental allergies with oral medications recommended by the vet to help relieve his allergic reaction. 

To prevent this type of allergy, limit his exposure to the allergen.

Food Allergies

Food allergies are not common in dachshunds, but they can occur and cause severe skin problems when they eat the allergen. 

Just like humans, they can be allergic to any ingredient. However, many dachshunds are allergic to chicken, beef, wheat, soy, corn, yeast, and dairy. 

Its common signs are dry, red, and flaky skin, itching, biting, and hair loss. If he has a food allergy, eliminate the allergen from his diet. 

However, if he also has secondary skin infections, you will need to give him antibiotics as well.

Best Dog Food For Dachshunds With Skin Allergies

1. Purina Pro Plan Sensitive Skin & Stomach

The Purina Pro Plan Sensitive Skin & Stomach dry dog food is made with high-quality ingredients that are prudently picked for specific dietary or practical purposes. 

It is a highly digestible kibble that features salmon as its fundamental ingredient and main protein source. 

Oatmeal is also incorporated into it that safeguards the sensitive stomach, whereas prebiotic fiber promotes good bacteria for gut health. 

This sensitive skin dog food for a dachshund is without soy, corn, wheat, chicken by-product meal, and preservatives.

It contains 23 vital minerals and vitamins to support your cutie pie’s overall wellbeing and health. It is an ideal option for canines that are less than 20 pounds. 

Ingredients

• Crude Protein 28%: Important for muscle development.
• Crude Fat 17%: Creates energy they need for mobility.
• Crude Fiber 3%: Lowers constipation.

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2. Hill’s Science Diet Dry Dog Food

The Hill’s science diet sensitive stomach and skin dog food is specifically designed for miniature and small breed mutts.

It delivers optimal health and wellness and also nourishes their skin. It has chicken as its first ingredient and major protein source. If your canine is allergic to chicken, you should not feed it to him. 

This great quality dry kibble offers clinically proven antioxidant benefits for dachshunds. Natural ingredients are utilized for crafting it and it also has an outstanding taste that tiny hounds will truly enjoy. 

It boasts DHA from fish oil for healthy eyesight and brain development. Omega 6 fatty acids and vitamin E promote glossy fur and healthy skin.  

Ingredients

• Crude Protein 26%: Repairs the damaged tissues.
• Crude Fat 15.9%: Helps them absorb nutrients.
• Omega 3 Fatty Acids 0.5%: Supports brain, eye, and nervous system functions.

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3. Hill’s Science Diet Dry Dog Food

It can be hurting when you see your beloved dachshund suffer from diarrhea, bloating, or skin allergies as an outcome of something she consumed. 

The amazing news is that this pain and uneasiness can be removed by feeding the best dog food for dachshunds with skin allergies that is gentle on tummies. 

The Hill’s Science diet dry dog food is highly recommended by the vets for hounds with delicate abdomens. 

It does not contain artificial colors, flavors, and preservatives that are known for triggering skin allergies and stomach sensitivity issues in the majority of mutts. 

Chicken and chicken meals are its fundamental ingredients. If your dog has a poultry allergy, we would advise you not feed to him. 

On the other hand, it aids them in forming lean, strong muscles and maintaining sturdy bones, teeth, and moveable joints. 

Barley, brewers rice, and yellow peas are the biggest sources of complex carbohydrates. All these ingredients are lip-smacking and loaded with fiber that your little fellow requires for improved digestion.

Ingredients

• Protein 25.9%: Essential for healthy skin, hair, and muscles.
• Fat 16%: Boosts the food’s taste and texture.
• Vitamin E 800 IU/KG: Helps the body to create red blood cells.

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4. Forza10 Dermo Sensitive Skin Dog Food

Forza10 Dermo sensitive skin best food for a dachshund with allergies and gives relief to dry skin and minor skin allergies and diseases. It also improves their overall health and wellbeing.

It is packed with fiber and raw fish proteins and is free from gluten, artificial colors, flavors, and GMO ingredients. 

This grain-free formula is perfect for small mutts with skin and joint problems and irritations, thanks to omega 3 and 6 fatty acids. It is anticipated to offer perceptible outcomes to your precious one’s coat and skin health. 

The brand has added therapeutic fruit and plant extracts in it for delicious taste and skin nourishment. 

If your canine has redness, hot spots, hair loss, or any other skin condition or allergy, you must feed it to him.

Ingredients

• Crude Protein 23%: Builds nails and ligaments.
• Crude Fiber 4.0%: Improves stool consistency.
• Omega 6 Fatty Acids 3.5%: Essential for reproduction and immune system function. 

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5. MAX Dog Allergy Relief – Itch-Free Skin

The max dog allergy relief –itch-free skin chews are rich in salmon oil, probiotics, and antioxidants that support their immune system. 

It has 10 active ingredients to support canines with environmental and skin allergies. It improves skin and coat health and supports normal histamine reactions.

Additionally, it also boosts immune system response and digestive health. They are manufactured in a GMO-certified facility in the United States. Only the greatest quality ingredients are used for making it.

We have been feeding these tasty chews to our 18 months old dachshund for about 2 months now and they have significantly reduced her irritation and red eyes. She happily eats them and is now a pretty happy canine.  

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How To Buy The Best Dog Food For Dachshunds With Skin Allergies?

While shopping for dog food for a dachshund, keep in mind these things:

• Look for food that is manufactured with organic and wholesome ingredients along with some processed foods.
• The number one ingredient of the diet must be meat such as fish, turkey, duck, lamb, or any other protein that your hound is not allergic to or has not been exposed to previously. Meat meal and meat byproducts are also good only if the company is well-known and has high safety standards.
• There should be an ample amount of fat (preferably a minimum of 12% for adult dachshunds).
• It should have a limited content of digestible carbs such as wholesome grains and low-starch vegetables.
• We would recommend you to buy food that is made in the USA, Canada, Australia, New Zealand, and Western Europe because these countries have strict safety protocols and they are considered the trustworthy and safest options.
• Avoid food that features fillers, preservatives, artificial colors, flavors, and other chemicals.
• Apart from specific proteins, certain grains such as wheat, corn, and soy can also trigger skin allergies. 
• Dachshunds with skin allergies may do better on food that has only one protein source and includes ingredients that your doggie may not have consumed earlier and consequently is less likely to be allergic to.
• To prevent skin allergies, you can also feed them a limited ingredient diet because it can make it easier for you to find out the particular allergen your canine is reacting to.  

Frequently Asked Questions

1. What Should I Feed My Dachshund With Itchy Skin?

If he has itchy skin due to yeast infections or skin allergies, you can offer him two teaspoons of plain, sugar-free yogurt once a week to boost his immune system. 

2. Why Does My Dachshund Scratch And Bite Excessively? 

If he is continuously biting and scratching, he might have a skin allergy or problem, or fleas. These babies are predisposed to oily, dry, and flaky skin. They are hypersensitive to particular foods and substances in the environment, which can make their skin itchy and sore. 

3. Why Does My Dachshund Always Seem Hungry?

Active hounds will burn off their energy from their caloric consumption very quickly. It usually happens with dogs in a house with kids. 

However, don’t leave their food dish out for the whole day because the food will go bad after some time and your dog will also be spoiled. 

Moreover, free-feeding could lead them to obesity. When you free feed a pooch, it becomes difficult for you to figure out how much he is eating in a day. 

Therefore, you should set a feeding schedule to guarantee that he is consuming the correct amount of food according to his weight, age, activity level, and health condition.

4. What Is The Ideal Time To Feed Dachshunds?

You can feed them breakfast around 7 am or 8 am and dinner around 6 pm to 7 pm. Their dinner should be a minimum of 3 to 4 hours before their sleep time so that they can digest the best food for dachshunds and go to the bathroom before going to sleep. 

We would recommend you to not leave their dish out for the whole day. Control the percentage of food in their dish and serve them at the same time every day.

5. How Can I Treat My Dog’s Dry Skin?

• Use a shampoo that is exclusively formulated for hounds.
• Brush him daily.
• Feed him a premium quality best food for a dachshund with allergies.
• Keep him on tick and flea preventative medication.

6. What Should I Include In My Pooch’s Food For Dry And Flaky Skin?

Add coconut oil to his diet as it is a healthy substitute for processed fats. It can help them lose weight, provide relief to dry and flaky skin, and make them feel energetic. 

7. Is Cheese Good For Dachshunds?

Yes, they can eat cheese only if they are not allergic to it. If he is intolerant to it, don’t feed it to him. Even if he is not allergic, feed it to him in moderation.

8. Can I Apply Olive Oil On My Dog’s Itchy Skin?

Using olive oil as a moisturizer and applying it to your dachshund’s skin directly can be beneficial, but don’t apply it too much because it will make the skin greasy and could become a cause of yeast and bacteria production. 

Instead, add a few drops of olive oil to a cup of water and use your hands to apply this mixture to your mutt’s coat.

9. Can Dachshunds Drink Coffee?

They can’t have coffee because it contains caffeine which is harmful to dogs. Caffeine has a bad impact on their hearts and nervous system.  

10. Can I Feed Bananas To My Dachshund?

You can serve them bananas because they are an outstanding low-caloric treat for them. They are packed with vitamins, fiber, potassium, and many other vital nutrients. They have high sugar content, so don’t make them a part of their regular diet. 

Conclusion

If you want to provide your dachshund with the best dog food for dachshunds with skin allergies to keep them healthier and happier, take into account the 5 options we reviewed above.

All these options will give him the nutrition he requires and an incredible taste that will make him eat his whole food. Which food do you feed your dog and which products have given you good or bad results? Share with us in the comments.

References:

• https://www.tandfonline.com/doi/full/10.1080/2058802X.2019.1622270
• https://digital.library.adelaide.edu.au/dspace/handle/2440/119249
• https://www.akc.org/dog-breeds/dachshund/
• https://youdidwhatwithyourweiner.com/21-things-about-dachshunds-every-owner-should-know/