Novel Proteins for Dogs
Alternative protein sources for dogs with food sensitivities, allergies, and special dietary needs
When traditional proteins aren't working, novel proteins can provide relief and optimal nutrition.
Why Novel Proteins?
Novel proteins are less commonly used in traditional dog foods, making them ideal for dogs with food sensitivities or allergies to common proteins like chicken or beef. They provide variety, unique nutrient profiles, and support overall health. When dogs develop food allergies or sensitivities to common proteins, their immune system overreacts, causing symptoms like:
Skin Symptoms
- Chronic itching and scratching
- Hot spots and rashes
- Recurring ear infections
- Red, inflamed paws
Digestive Symptoms
- Chronic diarrhea or loose stools
- Vomiting or regurgitation
- Excessive gas and bloating
- Loss of appetite or weight loss
The Solution: By switching to a protein your dog has never eaten before, you eliminate the trigger for their allergic reaction. Novel proteins give their immune system a "reset" and their body a chance to heal.
Most dogs show improvement within 2-6 weeks of switching to a novel protein diet. Combined with proper elimination diet protocols, novel proteins can identify exact food triggers and provide long-term relief.
Our Novel Protein Options
Each protein offers unique benefits and nutritional profiles. Choose based on your dog's specific needs and health conditions.
Venison
Lean, hypoallergenic, nutrient-rich; supports sensitive digestion
Venison is a highly digestible, lean protein that most dogs have never been exposed to, making it an excellent choice for dogs with food sensitivities.
Key Benefits
- Exceptionally lean (only 2-3% fat)
- Rich in B vitamins (B6, B12, niacin)
- High in iron and zinc for immune support
- Low allergen potential
- Easily digestible protein source
Helps With
- Food allergies and intolerances
- Inflammatory bowel disease (IBD)
- Chronic skin issues
- Weight management (due to low fat content)
- Pancreatitis recovery (low fat)
Nutritional Highlights (Dry Matter Basis)
30-34%
Protein
2-4%
Fat
Key Nutrients
B12, B6, iron, zinc, selenium
Rabbit
Rare, gentle, low-fat; rich in essential nutrients and ideal for immune health
Rabbit is one of the most hypoallergenic proteins available, with a mild flavor and exceptional digestibility. It's ideal for dogs with severe food sensitivities.
Key Benefits
- Highest protein-to-fat ratio of all meats
- Hypoallergenic - rarely causes reactions
- Rich in essential amino acids
- High in vitamin B12 and selenium
- Gentle on sensitive digestive systems
Helps With
- Multiple food allergies
- Severe skin allergies and itching
- Chronic ear infections
- Elimination diet trials
- Pancreatitis (ultra-low fat)
- Weight management
Nutritional Highlights (Dry Matter Basis)
33-36%
Protein
2-3%
Fat
Key Nutrients
B12, selenium, phosphorus, niacin
Duck
Savory, hypoallergenic; rich in amino acids and healthy fats
Duck provides a unique protein source with naturally high omega-3 fatty acids, supporting skin health, coat quality, and reducing inflammation.
Key Benefits
- High in omega-3 fatty acids
- Supports skin and coat health
- Anti-inflammatory properties
- Rich in iron and B vitamins
- Highly palatable for picky eaters
Helps With
- Dry, flaky skin
- Dull coat condition
- Chronic inflammation
- Joint issues (anti-inflammatory)
- Food sensitivities to common proteins
Nutritional Highlights (Dry Matter Basis)
28-32%
Protein
10-14%
Fat
Key Nutrients
Omega-3, iron, selenium, B vitamins
Salmon
Omega-3 powerhouse; supports skin, coat, joints, and cognitive health
Salmon is packed with omega-3 DHA and EPA, essential for brain development, heart health, and fighting inflammation throughout the body.
Key Benefits
- Highest omega-3 content (DHA & EPA)
- Supports cognitive function
- Promotes heart health
- Reduces inflammation
- Supports joint health
- Boosts immune system
Helps With
- Arthritis and joint pain
- Cognitive decline in senior dogs
- Heart disease
- Chronic inflammation
- Autoimmune conditions
- Skin allergies
Nutritional Highlights (Dry Matter Basis)
25-29%
Protein
10-15%
Fat
Key Nutrients
Omega-3 (DHA/EPA), vitamin D, B12, selenium
Alligator
Unique, lean, highly digestible; great for allergies and sensitive stomachs
Alligator is an extremely rare protein source that few dogs have encountered, making it ideal for severe allergies and elimination diets. It's lean, nutritious, and highly digestible.
Key Benefits
- Extremely rare protein - minimal exposure
- Lean and easily digestible
- High in omega-3 fatty acids
- Rich in essential amino acids
- Low cholesterol
- Novel flavor dogs love
Helps With
- Severe multiple food allergies
- Failed elimination diets
- Chronic skin conditions
- Environmental allergies requiring protein rotation
- Inflammatory bowel disease (IBD)
- Novel protein trials
Nutritional Highlights (Dry Matter Basis)
32-35%
Protein
2-4%
Fat
Key Nutrients
Omega-3, potassium, vitamin B12, phosphorus
Wild Boar
Lean, nutrient-rich; supports heart health and adds dietary variety
Wild boar offers a rich, flavorful alternative to common proteins. It's packed with nutrients, highly digestible, and rarely causes allergic reactions in dogs.
Key Benefits
- Rich in thiamine (vitamin B1)
- High in zinc and selenium
- Excellent iron content
- Low in saturated fat
- Rich, palatable flavor
- Supports muscle development
Helps With
- Food allergies to common proteins
- Picky eaters refusing other proteins
- Anemia (high iron content)
- Muscle wasting conditions
- Chronic digestive issues
- Protein rotation diets
Nutritional Highlights (Dry Matter Basis)
28-31%
Protein
6-9%
Fat
Key Nutrients
Thiamine (B1), zinc, selenium, iron, niacin
How to Choose the Right Novel Protein
Step 1: Identify Past Protein Exposure
List every protein your dog has eaten - in kibble, treats, chews, and table scraps. The goal is to find a protein they've NEVER had before.
Step 2: Consider Your Dog's Health Conditions
Use our protein profiles above to match proteins with your dog's specific health needs. For example, choose ultra-lean proteins like rabbit or venison for pancreatitis.
Step 3: Start a Proper Elimination Diet
Feed ONLY the novel protein and a single carbohydrate source for 8-12 weeks. No treats, no table scraps, nothing else. This identifies if food is the trigger.
Step 4: Work with a Nutrition Expert
Novel protein diets must be properly balanced for long-term feeding. Our team ensures your dog gets complete nutrition while managing their food sensitivities.
Ready to Try Novel Proteins?
Our team can help you select the right novel protein and create a complete, balanced elimination diet tailored to your dog's needs.