What does Hypoallergenic mean in dog food?

The term hypoallergenic, literally meaning below-average-allergy-causing, is used widely in the pet food industry to identify foods and treats that are less likely to cause an adverse reaction in the pets that eat them.

Unfortunately there are no official guidelines on which ingredients qualify as hypoallergenic or not and so the definition can vary from one brand to another. Maize, for example, is regarded as a hypoallergenic ingredient by some manufacturers while others avoid it like the plague.

To be awarded our hypoallergenic logo a food must be free from added wheat, maize, dairy products, soya products and artificial additives, all of which we have often found to be problematic in sensitive dogs.

It is important to note, however, that since dogs can develop adverse reactions to almost any ingredient, no food is absolutely risk free.