5 Cheapest Dog Food Without Chicken

Many dog owners face the challenge of finding the right food for their pets, especially when dealing with allergies or intolerances to certain ingredients, such as chicken. In this guide, we’ll explore some of the best affordable dog food options without chicken, based on Reddit user recommendations and other sources.

1. Why Opt for Chicken-Free Dog Food?

Understanding Canine Allergies

While chicken is a common ingredient in many dog foods due to its high protein content, some dogs develop allergies or intolerances to it. Common symptoms include itching, redness, and digestive issues.

Benefits of Chicken-Free Dog Food

Diverse Protein Sources: Opting for chicken-free dog foods introduces your dog to various proteins like lamb, beef, or fish.

Lessens Allergy Risk: Eliminating chicken from their diet can reduce the chances of allergic reactions.

2. Top Recommended Brands

1. Stella & Chewy’s Poultry-Free Formula

Profile: Stella & Chewy’s is renowned for its emphasis on raw, premium dog foods. Their poultry-free line is crafted with this same commitment to high-quality ingredients.

• Main Ingredients: Depending on the specific variant, primary proteins include duck, lamb, beef, or fish.
• Nutritional Highlights: Rich in organic fruits and vegetables, the formulas also contain added taurine, which can be beneficial for a dog’s heart health.
• Added Benefit: The brand boasts a freeze-dried raw coating for added flavor and palatability.

2. Royal Canin Veterinary Diet

Profile: Though Royal Canin might come across as pricey, their veterinary diets are specially formulated to cater to specific dietary needs and medical conditions.

• Main Ingredients: Options include venison, potato, and hydrolyzed soy protein to ensure minimized risk of allergic reactions.
• Nutritional Highlights: Prebiotics aid in maintaining gut health, while omega-3 fatty acids from fish oil help support a healthy skin barrier.
• Added Benefit: The hydrolyzed protein variant is designed to reduce protein sizes, minimizing the chance of immune reactions.

3. Farmina N&D Ancestral Grain

Profile: Farmina combines the best of nature with scientific research to produce foods that cater to natural canine dietary habits.

• Main Ingredients: Lamb, fish (like cod or herring), and ancestral grains.
• Nutritional Highlights: The diet is rich in high-quality proteins and grains like spelt and oats without any artificial preservatives.
• Added Benefit: Maintains a low glycemic index, making it suitable for dogs prone to weight gain.

4. Orijen

Profile: Orijen emphasizes a biologically appropriate diet, ensuring dogs get nutrition that mirrors their evolutionary diet.

• Main Ingredients: Six different fish species, including mackerel, herring, and flounder, constitute the primary ingredients in their Six Fish variant.
• Nutritional Highlights: At least two-thirds of the fish ingredients are fresh or raw, providing essential nutrients in their most nourishing form.
• Added Benefit: Incorporates whole prey ratios of fish meat, organs, and cartilage, eliminating the need for synthetic additives.

5. Open Farm

Profile: Open Farm prioritizes ethical sourcing and traceability of ingredients, ensuring not only quality but also sustainability.

• Main Ingredients: Grass-fed beef, ocean-caught whitefish, and pasture-raised lamb are some of the primary sources of protein.
• Nutritional Highlights: Non-GMO fruits and vegetables, coconut oil for skin and coat health, and a mix of essential vitamins and minerals.
• Added Benefit: Their commitment to sustainability means that every product has a lot number, allowing you to trace the origin of every ingredient in the bag.

3. Going the Extra Mile: DIY Chicken-Free Meals

For those who have time and are keen on ensuring their pets get the best, making homemade meals can be an option. Some Reddit users suggest raw beef cuts and stewing meats as affordable options. However, it’s crucial to ensure a balanced diet, so consider adding appropriate supplements.

4. Money-Saving Tips

PetSmart Coupons: Some users mentioned playing games on the PetSmart app to earn discounts on dog food.

Bulk Buying: Purchasing in larger quantities might provide savings in the long run.

Subscription Services: Some online pet stores offer discounts for regular delivery subscriptions.

5. Other Factors to Consider

Reading the Label: “No chicken by-product” doesn’t necessarily mean “no chicken.” It’s essential to thoroughly read the ingredients.

Consulting a Vet: Before changing your dog’s diet, especially if they have sensitivities, always consult with a veterinarian.

FAQs: Chicken-Free Dog Food

1. Why might a dog require chicken-free dog food?

Many dogs develop food sensitivities or allergies over time. Chicken is a common allergen, often manifesting in symptoms like itching, ear infections, and gastrointestinal issues. By eliminating chicken from the diet, dog owners can alleviate these symptoms and improve their pet’s overall well-being.

2. Is “chicken meal” the same as whole chicken in dog food ingredients?

No, they aren’t the same. While both originate from chicken, “chicken meal” is a concentrated source. It results from cooking chicken tissues (excluding feathers, feet, beaks, and intestines) to remove water and fat. The result is a dense protein source. However, if your dog is allergic to chicken, both “whole chicken” and “chicken meal” should be avoided.

3. How can I transition my dog to a chicken-free diet safely?

Begin by gradually introducing the chicken-free food. Start with a mix of 75% old food and 25% new food, then transition to a 50-50 mix after a few days. Over a week or two, keep increasing the proportion of new food until you’ve fully transitioned. Monitoring for any digestive upset and consulting with your veterinarian can provide guidance tailored to your pet.

4. Can I trust a dog food label that states “chicken-free”?

In most cases, established brands are truthful. However, cross-contamination can occur if products with chicken are manufactured in the same facility. For dogs with severe allergies, even trace amounts can cause reactions. It’s crucial to read ingredient lists thoroughly and, when in doubt, reach out directly to the manufacturer.

5. Are there benefits to feeding chicken-free dog food to dogs without chicken allergies?

Dietary diversity is generally beneficial. Rotating proteins can provide a broader spectrum of amino acids and reduce the risk of developing new food allergies. Even if your dog isn’t allergic to chicken, introducing other protein sources can promote overall health.

6. What other common allergens should I be aware of in dog foods?

In addition to chicken, common allergens include beef, dairy, wheat, egg, soy, and corn. If your dog is exhibiting signs of allergies, it might not just be chicken. An elimination diet, guided by a vet, can help identify the specific allergens affecting your pet.

7. What about treats and supplements? Can they contain chicken?

If your dog has a chicken allergy, it’s essential to ensure that treats, supplements, and even flavored medications don’t contain chicken or chicken derivatives. Always read the ingredient lists and opt for chicken-free alternatives to prevent allergic reactions.

8. How do I recognize a chicken allergy in my dog?

Symptoms might vary, but common signs include itchy skin (especially around the face, paws, ears, and belly), frequent ear infections, excessive licking or biting of the skin, gastrointestinal problems like diarrhea or vomiting, and chronic gas. If your dog showcases any of these, consult a vet. They might recommend an elimination diet to pinpoint the allergen.

9. Why is chicken a common ingredient in dog foods?

Chicken is a cost-effective protein source that’s readily available. Its lean meat is an excellent source of essential amino acids, vitamins, and minerals, making it an appealing choice for many dog food manufacturers.

10. Are chicken-free dog foods more expensive?

Not necessarily. While some premium brands with exotic proteins might be pricier, several affordable options exclude chicken. It’s essential to compare prices and ensure you’re not compromising on quality.

11. Can I prepare homemade chicken-free meals for my dog?

Absolutely! Many pet owners opt for homemade diets to have complete control over ingredients. If you choose this route, it’s vital to consult with a veterinarian or pet nutritionist. They’ll ensure your dog gets all essential nutrients from alternative protein sources.

12. Is chicken liver or chicken fat safe for a dog with chicken allergies?

Generally, if a dog is allergic to chicken, it’s wise to avoid all chicken-derived products, including liver and fat. While some dogs might only react to specific parts of the chicken, it’s safer to eliminate all potential triggers, especially if the allergy symptoms are severe.

13. How do I ensure chicken-free dog food provides a balanced diet?

Look for labels that state the food meets the nutritional profiles set by the Association of American Feed Control Officials (AAFCO). It’s an indication that the food provides a balanced diet for dogs. Additionally, checking for whole protein sources, like beef, fish, or lamb, as primary ingredients can ensure nutritional adequacy.

14. Are there chicken-free dog foods specifically for puppies or senior dogs?

Yes, various life-stage specific chicken-free dog foods cater to puppies, adults, or senior dogs. Puppies, for instance, require more protein and certain nutrients for growth. Always choose a product that aligns with your dog’s age and nutritional needs.

15. How often should I reassess my dog’s dietary needs?

Dogs’ nutritional needs can evolve with age, activity level, and health status. It’s a good practice to consult with your veterinarian annually or whenever there’s a significant change in your dog’s health or lifestyle.

16. How can chicken allergies in dogs be diagnosed?

To diagnose food allergies, including chicken, veterinarians often employ an elimination diet. This method involves feeding the dog a simplified diet with minimal ingredients, none of which the dog has eaten before. If the symptoms subside during this phase, potential allergens, like chicken, are reintroduced one at a time to see which triggers the allergic reaction.

17. Why are other poultry, like duck or turkey, sometimes used as alternatives?

Duck and turkey are distinct protein sources from chicken and can be useful for dogs that are specifically allergic to chicken protein. Each bird species has different protein structures, and it’s possible for a dog to be allergic to one type of poultry but not another.

18. Are there dog breeds more susceptible to chicken allergies?

Allergies can develop in any breed, but some breeds seem to be more predisposed. Breeds like Golden Retrievers, Cocker Spaniels, and German Shepherds often have more reported cases of allergies, including food allergies. However, it’s essential to treat each dog as an individual and not rely solely on breed predispositions.

19. Can dogs outgrow or develop chicken allergies later in life?

Yes, allergies can change throughout a dog’s life. A dog might not be born with allergies but can develop them over time with repeated exposure to an allergen. Conversely, with managed dietary practices and reduced exposure, some dogs might show fewer allergy symptoms as they age.

20. What’s the difference between chicken intolerance and chicken allergy in dogs?

An allergy is an immune system response to a protein that the body misidentifies as a threat. Symptoms often manifest on the skin. Intolerance, on the other hand, is a digestive issue where a dog’s system can’t adequately process a particular ingredient, leading to gastrointestinal symptoms.

21. How can I transition my dog to a chicken-free diet without upsetting their stomach?

Transition slowly. Start by mixing a small amount of the chicken-free dog food with their regular food. Gradually increase the amount of the new food while decreasing the old over 7-10 days. This slow introduction helps acclimate your dog’s digestive system.

22. Are there chicken-free dog treats available in the market?

Yes, many treats cater to dogs with specific dietary needs. Look for treats labeled as chicken-free or those made with alternative proteins like beef, lamb, fish, or vegetarian options.

23. Do chicken allergies correlate with other poultry allergies in dogs?

Not always. While chicken, turkey, and duck are all poultry, a dog allergic to chicken may not necessarily be allergic to other birds. However, if you suspect an allergy, it’s wise to be cautious when introducing any new poultry sources.

24. Is raw feeding a viable alternative for dogs with chicken allergies?

Raw feeding can be an alternative, but owners must ensure a balanced diet. If considering raw feeding, select proteins your dog isn’t allergic to and consult with a pet nutritionist or vet to ensure all nutritional requirements are met.

25. What should I do if my dog accidentally consumes chicken?

If your dog has a severe chicken allergy and consumes it inadvertently, monitor for adverse reactions. In cases of intense allergic reactions, seek immediate veterinary care. For mild cases, ensure they have plenty of water and monitor their condition.