Why is There Dog Food Without Chicken?

Did you know that there is dog food without chicken? It may be surprising to learn it because chicken is a common ingredient in many pet foods. You can use several different proteins in dog food. So, chicken is not the only option. 

In this post, we’ll look at other pet food protein options. We’ll also discuss why some people choose other pet food proteins over chicken. 

What is the Best Chicken Free Dog Food?

Are you looking for chicken-free and grain-free dog food? Look no further. StrathwoodTaste of the Wild Pacific Stream dog food is your match. This high-quality dog food contains premium ingredients, including real meat and nutrient-rich vegetables, without chicken or animal products. 

Whether you have a puppy or an adult dog, this chicken-free dog food can help your furry friend stay healthy and happy. So, don’t wait any longer. Try StrathwoodTaste of the Wild Pacific Stream Canine Grain-Free today on your dog!

What Makes Dog Food With No Chicken Different?

Dog food with no chicken is different from other types of dog food in several ways. It typically has more minor animal protein sources, such as beef or lamb.

Additionally, it may contain more plant ingredients like vegetables and grains, which provide essential nutrients for your dog’s health and well-being.

Whether you are choosing no chicken dog food for your pet or looking for a good dog food option for an animal shelter or rescue organization, there are many things to consider before making your choice. 

Some things to look out for include the quality of the ingredients, the nutritional value of the food, and any reviews or feedback from other dog owners who have been trying the dog food—looking for chicken-free dog food that is also free from grains? 

Why Should You Stop Feeding Your Dog Chicken?

There are a few reasons why you should stop feeding your dog chicken. First, chicken is one of the most common allergens for dogs. On estimation, about 10% of all dogs are allergic to chicken. This allergy can manifest itself in various ways, including skin problems, digestive issues, and respiratory distress.

Second, even if your dog isn’t allergic to chicken, it could still develop an adverse reaction. Chicken byproducts are present in dog food as fillers, and they can cause vomiting and diarrhea.

Thirdly, many commercial dog foods contain preservatives and other chemicals that can harm your dog’s health.

Finally, there are several types of dog food without chicken. They typically have other animal protein sources, such as beef or lamb. 

What are the Alternatives to Feeding Your Dog Poultry?

Thankfully, there are several additional high-quality animal protein options for dogs with chicken sensitivity.

Bison

Bison is a popular lean alternative to beef and a perfect substitute for chicken because of its low-fat content. This red meat is exceptionally high in iron and protein, but it has premium pricing.

Duck

Although somewhat uncommon, duck is a good source of animal proteins in pet food. This fowl is safe to feed chicken-sensitive dogs and is an attractive option for dog breeds with high-fat content needs. But you can opt to trim out the excess fat in the skin before processing.

Eggs

Eggs are another unique dog food proteinous ingredient. Some pups may have egg allergies, but eggs are a high-quality source of protein with amino acids and omega fatty acids. You can find eggs in grain-free dog food.

Fish

Some of the best dog diets generally have fish as their single source of animal proteins. Fish are abundant in omega fatty acids, especially omega 3. These nutritious fats support skin and coat health. So, they are crucial for pups with chicken allergies.

Lamb

Lamb is a unique protein source that the best dog food without chicken meal has. This red meat rivals chicken in mineral content. It is rich in zinc, selenium, phosphorus, and niacin. It is one of the best alternative protein sources for grain-free dog diets without chicken.

Why You Should Talk to Your Vet First

When it comes to dog food without chicken products, there are several options. However, not all dog foods have the same formula. Some dog foods contain ingredients that may be harmful to your dogs, such as chicken or grain. That’s why it’s essential to talk to your vet before choosing dog food. 

Your vet can help you select dog food without chicken or grain to meet your dog’s individual needs.

At a Glance – The Best Dog Food Without Chicken

Name of product	Best for case
StrathwoodTaste of the Wild Pacific Stream Canine Grain-Free Adult Dry Dog Food	Best overall non-chicken dog food
Instinct Original Grain-Free Recipe with Real Rabbit Natural Dry Dog Food	Best dry non-chicken dog food
ORIJEN Dog Regional Red Recipe, High-Protein Grain-Free Dry Dog Food	Best grain-free non-chicken kibble
I and love and you” Nude Superfood Dry Dog Food	Best for dogs with sensitive stomachs
Zignature Dog Food, Kangaroo	Best non-chicken canned dog food
ACANA Regionals Wild Atlantic Dry Dog Food	Best for junior dogs
Canidae PURE Ancestral Premium Dry Dog Food	Best For dogs with sensitive skin and stomach
Blue Buffalo Basics Skin & Stomach Care, Natural Adult Dry Dog Food	Best adult dry dog food
Diamond Skin & Coat Real Meat Recipe Dry Dog Food	Best for budget
Rachael Ray Nutrish Zero Grain Natural Dry Dog Food	Best natural, gluten-free dog food

Our Chicken-Free Dog Food Buying Guide

When buying dog food without chicken, it’s essential to do your research and find dog food that will meet the needs of your pup. If you have any questions, be sure to ask your veterinarian. With this in mind, let’s look at some of the critical factors to consider when buying chicken-free dog food.

Meeting AAFCO Guidelines

One of the first things to look for when buying chicken-free dog food is whether or not it meets AAFCO guidelines. The Association of American Feed Control Officials (AAFCO) sets nutritional standards for pet foods. So, ensure that any potential food options you consider meet these standards. 

This consideration ensures that your dog gets all the nutrients they need for optimal health and wellbeing.

Addressing Medical Condition/s

Along with meeting AAFCO guidelines, consider your dog’s specific medical conditions. If your dog has any food allergies or sensitivities, choose food free of the ingredients that cause allergies. 

Additionally, suppose your dog requires a special diet due to specific health concerns like obesity or kidney disease? In that case, you’ll want to look for a food tailored to their particular needs and provides the nutrients they need.

Pet Palatability

Finally, consider pet palatability when buying poultry-free dog food. Different dogs have different preferences regarding their food’s taste and texture. So, find food that your dog enjoys and won’t cause any digestive issues. 

Some dogs prefer canned foods over dry kibble, while others prefer the opposite. It’s all about finding what works best for your pup.

Reviewing the Best Poultry-Free Dog Food

StrathwoodTaste of the Wild Pacific Stream Canine Grain-Free Adult Dry Dog Food: Best Overall Non-chicken Dog Food

Brand: Taste of the Wild

Weight: 5 pounds (2.3 kilograms)

Life stage: Adult dogs.

First ingredient: Real fish

Flavor: Grain-free adult

Item form: Dry

Product dimensions:‎ 3.5 x 9.5 x 16 inches (8.89 x 24.1 x 40.6 centimeters)

Breed recommendation: All breed sizes

About This Item

Taste of the Wild is grain-free, high-quality kibble that delivers the same nourishment that your dog’s wild-living ancestors loved. Taste of the Wild has many recipes, including a couple without chicken, such as the Pacific Stream recipe. 

This kibble contains high-quality proteins, such as lamb and salmon, to provide your dog with the protein and omega fatty acids they need and enough fiber for its digestive health.

Features

• The first component is real meat, in this case, salmon.
• It contains no maize, soy, wheat, or artificial colors.
• It contains prebiotics and probiotics to support gut health.
• This senior dog food without chicken contains a protein combined with the best amino acid profile.

List of Ingredients

Sweet potatoes, potatoes, peas, salmon, ocean seafood feast.

Pros

• Compared to other kibbles of the same quality, it has a reasonable price.
• This dog food contains several antioxidant-rich components.

Cons

• Most of the Taste of the Wild dog foods are grain-free, a concern to some dog owners.
• Because this is a multi-protein diet, it is not suitable for dogs with specific protein sensitivities.

Instinct Original Grain-Free Recipe with Real Rabbit Natural Dry Dog Food: Best Dry Non-chicken Dog Food

Amazon’s Choice in Dry Dog Food by Instinct

Brand: Instinct

Flavor name: Rabbit

Size: 20 pounds (9.1 kilograms)

Item form: Pellet, raw, dry

Breed recommendation: All breed sizes, 

First Ingredient: Animal protein

Life stage: Adult

Product dimensions: 23 x 13.5 x 4.5 inches (58.4 x 34.4 x 11.4 centimeters)

About This Item

One of our faves is Instinct’s Be Natural dry dog chow., which our dogs enjoy even more than we did. We find its all-natural, no-filler composition, including animal protein as the first and second ingredients, healthy to dogs. Although it is not grain-free dog food, it contains natural fruits and vegetables to keep your dogs healthy. 

You can choose from various foods for your dog’s diet, including salmon, lamb, and beef. All our dogs adore them. We believe it is the best dry dog food without chicken that gives you value for your money because it is free of additives. So, it does not cause food sensitivities. Also, it is high in protein and natural ingredients. 

Features

• It contains animal protein.
• It is not grain-free.

List of Ingredients

• Rabbit, Salmon Meal, Menhaden Fish Meal, Chickpeas, Canola Oil.

Pros

• It does not contain fillers.
• Coated in raw.
• 25 percent high-protein formula.

Cons

• This dog food isn’t grain-free.

ORIJEN Dog Regional Red Recipe, High-Protein Grain-Free Dry Dog Food: Best Grain-free Non-chicken Kibble

Amazon’s Choice in Dry Dog Food by Orijen

Brand: Orijen

Style: Grain-free food

Flavor: Regional Red

Size: 25 pounds

Item form: Dry

Breed recommendation: All breed sizes

First ingredient: Six fish

Product dimensions: 28.4 x 15 x 4.5 inches

Life stage: 

About This Item

The active ingredients in Orijen are six fish, which provide a balanced and complete diet for your dog. The monkfish, herring, silver hake, flounder, Acadian redfish, and Atlantic mackerel are the whole fish ingredients in this high-protein dry dog chow. 

Because animal protein accounts for 85 percent of the total components, this dog food without chicken by-products is substantial in protein. So, it is ideal for dogs who enjoy the taste of fish. The high protein contents support lean, powerful muscles and a healthy immune system and digestive system. 

List of Ingredients

• Monkfish, herring, silver hake, flounder, Acadian redfish, and Atlantic mackerel

Features

• Flavor of six different types of fish.
• It has a lot of protein.

Pros

• It has a lot of protein.
• 85% of the product is from high-quality animal components.
• It satisfies dietary requirements.

Cons

• Some dogs may dislike the flavor of fish.
• Various serving sizes are available.

“I and Love and You” Nude Superfood Dry Dog Food: Best for Dogs with Sensitive Stomachs

Amazon’s Choice in Dry Dog Food by I AND LOVE AND YOU

Brand: I and Love and You

Flavor: Simply sea recipe

Item form: Grain

Breed recommendation: All breed sizes

First ingredient: Pork

Product dimensions:15.5 x 25.5 x 5.25 inches (39.4 x 64.8 x 13.3 centimeters)

Life stage: Adult

About This Item

Flaxseeds, coconut oil, and turmeric are some of the new ingredients in Superfood dog food. It contains no by-product meals, wheat, maize, soy, rice, chemical preservatives, flavors, or colors. It is also a non-GMO protein or product.

The first three ingredients in this high-protein I and Love and You dog chow are meat, fish, or poultry. Every three days, add a bit more I and Love and You no chicken dog food and less of the other food. We are after tummy rubs, not tummy rumbles.

Features

• Contain no by-product meals.
• It does not have chemical preservatives.

List of Ingredients

Pork, Meat Meal, Herring Meal, Peas, Chickpeas.

Pros

• For maximum nutrient absorption, chelated minerals are an addition.
• It contains fiber-rich ground flaxseed, which is good for your health.
• There are no fillers, by-products, or artificial additives in this product.

Cons

• The protein content is low.
• Carbohydrate-dense.
• Low moisture content.
• Fish allergies are possible in some dogs.

Zignature Dog Food, Kangaroo: Best Non-chicken Canned Dog Food

Amazon’s Choice in Dry Dog Food by Zignature

Brand: Zignature

Size: 25 pounds (11.3 kilograms)

Flavor: Kangaroo

Item form: Dry

Breed recommendation: All breed sizes

Product dimensions:24 x 16 x 4 inches (61 x 40.6 x 10.2 centimeters)

Life stage: Puppy

About This Item

Finding a chicken-free canned naked essentials dog food can be difficult. Yet, Zignature’s selection of wet food options makes it simple. Their recipes have a small number of ingredients because they’re for dogs with food allergies. 

However, Zignature does not sacrifice quality, nutrition, or taste in the process because this dish contains a variety of pup-friendly proteins, fiber, and carbohydrate-rich legumes.

Features

• The first ingredient is high-quality protein.
• It’s free of corn, soy, wheat, chicken, and dairy.
• Legumes are high in fiber, which aids digestion and provides energy.

List of Ingredients

Salmon, lentils, chickpeas, trout broth

Pros

• Pup parents say the flavor and texture of these foods are better than other alternatives.
• All of Zingature’s recipes do not have chicken.

Cons

• There are no grain-free choices available.

ACANA Regionals Wild Atlantic Dry Dog Food: Best for Junior Dogs

Brand: ACANA

Flavor: Seafood

Item form: Dry

Item weight: 25 pounds (11.3 kilograms)

Breed recommendation: All breed sizes

Life stage: Adult

About This Item 

ACANA is one of the best brands because of its high-quality dog feeds. This Wild Atlantic dry dog food contains actual meat from quality protein sources like freshwater fish, giving your dog a range of protein sources in one serving. 

Rainbow trout, yellow perch, and blue catfish are among the freshwater fish in this dog food. There’s also a red meat version without the chicken. We admire the high quality and novel protein sources in this diet dog food without chicken. But, you’ll pay a premium for it because it’s one of the most expensive dog foods.

Features

• High-quality novel protein sources.

List of Ingredients

• Red meat.

Pros

• High-quality protein alternatives.
• Grain-free.
• Meat is 60% of the recipe.

Cons

• Extremely costly.
• There’s a lot of hair in the kibble.

Canidae PURE Ancestral Premium Dry Dog Food: Best For Dogs with Sensitive Skin and Stomach

Brand: Canidae

Size: 20 pounds (9.1 kilograms)

Flavor: Lamb, goat, & wild boar

Item form: Dry

Breed recommendation: All breed sizes

First Ingredients: Salmon, 

Life stage: Adult

Product dimensions: 26 x 15 x 3.5 inches (66 x 38.1 x 8.9 centimeters)

About This Item

If you have to take the chicken out of your dog’s food, they most likely have an upset stomach. Diets with limited ingredients can assist dogs with food sensitivities and control their allergies.

Simple meals in these diets provide nutritional needs while avoiding common allergies like chicken. Salmon is the only protein source with a crude protein value of 32 percent in this dog food without chicken. A single protein source helps to prevent the emergence of new protein allergies. 

Features

• Sensitive Digestive System.
• Grain-Free.
• Chicken-Free.

List of Ingredients

Salmon, Salmon Meal, Menhaden Fish Meal, Lentils, Sweet Potatoes.

Pros 

• High in healthy fats.
• Grain-free.
• Preventing allergies in sensitive dogs.

Cons 

• Not suitable for overweight dogs.

Blue Buffalo Basics Skin & Stomach Care, Natural Adult Dry Dog Food: Best Adult Dry Dog Food

Brand: Blue Buffalo

Flavor: Salmon & Potato

Size: 24 pounds (10.9 kilograms)

Item form: Dry

First Ingredient: Lamb 

Life stage: Adult

Breed recommendation: All breed sizes

About This Item

Unlike cheaper replacements for excellent protein sources in lower-grade dog diets, the Blue Buffalo Basics Limited Ingredient Diet dog food offers lamb protein as the first ingredient. Instead of chicken, you can feed your dog lamb, turkey, duck, or salmon for a more diverse and nutritious diet. 

This dog food is grain-free to promote gentle digestion. It is ideal for dogs with sensitive stomachs. This dog food with limited ingredients makes an excellent choice for dogs with allergies, food sensitivities, or other health issues. 

Features

• Grain-free.
• Excellent choice for dogs with allergies, food sensitivities, or other health issues. 

List of Ingredients

• Lamb 

Pros

• The first component is lamb.
• Formula with a small number of ingredients.

Cons

• Expensive.
• Only a minimum of 20% protein.

Diamond Skin & Coat Real Meat Recipe Dry Dog Food: Best For Budget

Brand: Diamond naturals

Size: 30 pounds (13.6 kilograms)

Flavor: Salmon and Potato

Item form: Pellet

Breed recommendation: All breed sizes

First ingredient: Salmon, 

Life stage: All life stages

Product dimensions: 26 x 17 x 5 inches (66 x 43.2 x 12.7 centimeters)

About This Item

Chicken is a low-cost component that you may find in even the most basic dog food without chicken recipes. However, Diamond Naturals’ Skin & Coat dog food replaces chicken without raising the price significantly.

Instead, the salmon provides a 25% crude protein content. Salmon also contains a lot of omega-3 fatty acids. These lipids may be beneficial in supporting coat health in sensitive dogs with skin problems. 

Diamond dry dog food is hypoallergenic, reducing the likelihood of skin responses from other allergens. The management of allergic reactions to chicken and other foods requires a healthystrong immune system.

It also boosts your pup’s immune system with high quantities of antioxidants and a unique blend of probiotics. 

Features

• It has a lot of high-quality protein in it.
• Suitable for all phases of dog life.
• Grain-free.

List of Ingredients

Salmon, Fish Meal, Potatoes, Lentils, Peas.

Pros

• It has an ideal amino acid composition for a health dog skin
• Chicken-free.
• Supports the development of lean, powerful muscles

Cons

• It may not be effective for dogs with itchy skin disorders.

Rachael Ray Nutrish Zero Grain Natural Dry Dog Food: Best Natural Gluten Free Dog Food

Brand: Rachael Ray Nutrish

Flavor: Beef, potato & bison

Item form: Dry

Breed Recommendation: All breed sizes

First Ingredient: Salmon 

Life stage: All life stages

Product dimensions: 3.25 x 12 x 19 inches (8.3 x 30.5 x 48.3 centimeters)

About This Item

The first ingredient in this dog food is lamb. It’s ideal for dogs who enjoy the taste of lamb yet have food sensitivities. It’s also beneficial for fussy eaters in dogs. This dog food does not contain wheat, soy, corn, gluten, filler materials, artificial flavors, preservatives, colors, or chicken by-product meals, which are common allergens.

List of Ingredients

• Salmon
• Lamb

Features 

• Lamb meal and brown rice are the flavors of this dish.

Pros

• It’s safe for dogs that have food sensitivities.
• The first ingredient is a lamb meal.
• There are no filler ingredients in this product.
• Gluten-free.

Cons

• Various serving sizes are available.

FAQs on Non-Chicken Dog Food

Can Dogs Allergic to Chicken Eat Chicken Fat?

Unfortunately, it is not always possible to know whether a dog will be able to tolerate certain ingredients or not. Many dog foods and treats contain ingredients for dogs with a chicken allergy.

However, some low-fat dog foods without chicken products, such as those made with alternative protein sources like lamb or fish. These foods may help ease the symptoms of a dog’s allergic reaction to chicken and provide all the nutrients he needs for healthy growth and development.

Additionally, keeping your dog on a low-fat diet can also help reduce his risk of weight gain and associated health problems like the heart.

Can Dogs That are Allergic to Chicken Eat Turkey or Duck?

Yes, dogs that are allergic to chicken can eat turkey or duck. Turkey and duck are both poultry products, so they share many of the same proteins that can cause allergies in dogs. However, some dogs may be more allergic to one type of poultry than another. So, if your dog is allergic to chicken, try feeding them turkey or duck instead.

ILV’s Final Verdict on No Chicken Dog Food

Many dog foods include no chicken, yet our canine companions deserve the best. So we have been trying as many non-chicken dog foods as we could find. We think StrathwoodTaste of the Wild Pacific Stream Canine Adult Dry Dog Food without chicken is the best.

It is a grain-free, high-quality kibble that delivers the same nourishment that your dog’s wild-living ancestors wanted. Taste of the Wild has many recipes, including a couple without chicken, such as the Pacific Stream recipe. Try it today!