Royal Canin Hydrolyzed Protein vs. Selected Protein: Which One Is Best for Your Dog’s Allergies and Sensitivities? 🐶🍽️
When managing your dog’s food allergies or sensitivities, it’s essential to choose the right diet to avoid flare-ups and keep your furry friend healthy. Two highly recommended options are Royal Canin Hydrolyzed Protein and Royal Canin Selected Protein diets. Both are formulated to address food sensitivities, but which one is the better choice for your dog?
Key Takeaways: Quick Answers to Common Questions
- What’s the main difference between Hydrolyzed and Selected Protein? Hydrolyzed breaks proteins down into smaller molecules; Selected Protein uses novel whole proteins.
- Which is better for severe allergies? Hydrolyzed Protein is generally more effective for dogs with severe food allergies.
- Can Selected Protein help with mild sensitivities? Yes, Selected Protein works well for dogs with mild to moderate sensitivities to common proteins.
- What’s the best option for digestive issues? Hydrolyzed Protein is more digestible and suited for gastrointestinal problems.
- Is one better for skin allergies? Both are beneficial, but Hydrolyzed Protein is often preferred for more severe cases.
- Which diet is more palatable? Selected Protein is typically more appealing to picky eaters due to its use of whole proteins.
- How do the ingredients compare? Selected Protein uses novel proteins like duck or rabbit, while Hydrolyzed Protein breaks down chicken or soy.
- Can I switch between the two? Yes, but it should be done gradually and under the guidance of a vet.
- Which is more affordable? Pricing varies by region, but Selected Protein can be slightly more expensive due to the novel proteins.
- Which one should I choose for my dog? The choice depends on your dog’s specific health needs, severity of allergies, and your vet’s recommendation.
1. What’s the Difference Between Hydrolyzed and Selected Protein? 🧬🍖
Royal Canin Hydrolyzed Protein and Royal Canin Selected Protein are both designed to address food allergies, but they work differently.
- Hydrolyzed Protein: This diet breaks down proteins into tiny molecules, making them unrecognizable to the immune system and reducing the likelihood of an allergic reaction. It’s often used for dogs with severe food allergies or those that react to multiple proteins.
- Selected Protein: This diet uses novel proteins (like duck, rabbit, or venison) that your dog likely hasn’t been exposed to before. It’s ideal for dogs with mild to moderate sensitivities to common proteins like chicken, beef, or lamb.
| Diet Type | Key Mechanism | Best For | 💡 Tip |
|---|---|---|---|
| Hydrolyzed Protein | Protein is broken down into smaller molecules | Severe allergies or multiple sensitivities | Best for dogs with complex allergic reactions. |
| Selected Protein | Uses novel whole proteins | Mild to moderate sensitivities | Ideal if your dog doesn’t need full protein hydrolysis. |
💡 Pro Tip: If your dog has been on several diets without success, Hydrolyzed Protein may offer the best chance for relief.
2. Which Is Better for Severe Allergies? 🔬⚠️
Hydrolyzed Protein is generally considered the superior choice for dogs with severe food allergies. By breaking down proteins into smaller molecules, it helps prevent the immune system from recognizing the protein as an allergen, which can significantly reduce or eliminate allergic reactions.
Selected Protein is also beneficial for dogs with allergies, but it is more suitable for dogs who are sensitive to common proteins and don’t require the extreme breakdown that hydrolyzed protein offers.
| Diet Type | Severity of Allergies | 💡 Tip |
|---|---|---|
| Hydrolyzed Protein | High | Best for dogs with extreme or multiple protein sensitivities. |
| Selected Protein | Moderate | Good for dogs with allergies to specific proteins like chicken or beef. |
💡 Pro Tip: If your dog experiences chronic itching, ear infections, or gastrointestinal issues, Hydrolyzed Protein may provide more comprehensive relief.
3. How Do These Diets Help with Digestive Issues? 🍲🧘♀️
Both diets are formulated to be gentle on the digestive system, but Hydrolyzed Protein tends to be more effective for dogs with serious gastrointestinal problems like chronic diarrhea or vomiting. The smaller protein molecules are easier to digest, making it an ideal choice for dogs with sensitive stomachs or inflammatory bowel disease (IBD).
Selected Protein is also a good option for dogs with milder digestive issues, particularly if those issues are tied to sensitivities to more common proteins.
| Diet Type | Digestibility Level | 💡 Tip |
|---|---|---|
| Hydrolyzed Protein | Very high | Best for dogs with chronic gastrointestinal issues. |
| Selected Protein | High | Good for dogs with occasional digestive upset. |
💡 Pro Tip: If your dog suffers from frequent diarrhea or gas, Hydrolyzed Protein can be easier on their digestive system.
4. Which Is More Palatable for Picky Eaters? 😋🍗
Selected Protein diets are generally more appealing to picky eaters because they use whole, novel proteins like duck, rabbit, or venison, which tend to have a richer flavor and texture.
Hydrolyzed Protein, on the other hand, might be less appealing to some dogs due to the process of breaking down the proteins, which can reduce the food’s aroma and flavor.
| Diet Type | Palatability Level | 💡 Tip |
|---|---|---|
| Hydrolyzed Protein | Moderate | May need mixing with water or broth to increase palatability. |
| Selected Protein | High | Better for picky eaters due to whole protein ingredients. |
💡 Pro Tip: If your dog is a picky eater, start with Selected Protein and only switch to Hydrolyzed Protein if necessary.
5. How Do the Ingredients Compare? 📝🔍
The main difference between these two diets lies in the protein source:
- Hydrolyzed Protein uses proteins that are broken down (often chicken or soy), which reduces the likelihood of an allergic reaction.
- Selected Protein uses novel proteins like duck, rabbit, or venison, paired with simple, hypoallergenic ingredients like potatoes or peas.
| Ingredient Type | Hydrolyzed Protein | Selected Protein | 💡 Tip |
|---|---|---|---|
| Protein Source | Hydrolyzed chicken/soy | Duck, rabbit, or venison | Choose based on your dog’s allergy profile. |
| Carbohydrate Source | Brewer’s rice | Potatoes, peas | Consider the carb source if your dog has grain sensitivities. |
💡 Pro Tip: If your dog has a known allergy to chicken, opt for Selected Protein with a novel protein like rabbit or duck.
6. Which Diet Is Better for Skin Allergies? 🐾💧
Both diets are formulated to improve skin health, but Hydrolyzed Protein is often recommended for dogs with severe skin allergies because it’s designed to reduce immune system reactions more effectively. It helps alleviate symptoms like itching, rashes, and chronic ear infections.
Selected Protein can also help dogs with skin allergies, especially if they are reacting to specific common proteins, but Hydrolyzed Protein may be more suitable for complex or unidentified allergies.
| Diet Type | Skin Allergy Relief | 💡 Tip |
|---|---|---|
| Hydrolyzed Protein | Excellent | Best for dogs with severe or unknown skin allergies. |
| Selected Protein | Good | Effective for dogs with mild to moderate skin issues. |
💡 Pro Tip: If your dog’s skin allergies haven’t improved on other diets, Hydrolyzed Protein may provide faster relief.
7. Which Is More Affordable? 💰💳
Pricing for these diets can vary, but Selected Protein diets are often slightly more expensive due to the use of novel proteins, which are harder to source. Hydrolyzed Protein is generally more affordable, especially when used for long-term management of food sensitivities.
| Diet Type | Average Price (per lb) | 💡 Tip |
|---|---|---|
| Hydrolyzed Protein | $$ | More budget-friendly for long-term feeding. |
| Selected Protein | $$$ | Slightly higher due to the use of novel proteins. |
💡 Pro Tip: Check with your vet for potential discounts or promotions on both diets to make them more affordable.
8. Can I Switch Between Hydrolyzed and Selected Protein? 🔄🍽️
Yes, you can switch between Hydrolyzed Protein and Selected Protein, but it’s important to do so gradually to avoid digestive upset. A slow transition over 7 to 10 days allows your dog’s digestive system
to adjust to the new food. Consult your vet before making any changes, especially if your dog has a history of severe allergies or digestive issues.
💡 Pro Tip: Start by mixing 25% of the new food with 75% of the current food and gradually increase the new food while decreasing the old.
Final Thoughts: Choosing Between Royal Canin Hydrolyzed Protein and Selected Protein
Both Royal Canin Hydrolyzed Protein and Selected Protein are excellent choices for managing food allergies and sensitivities. Hydrolyzed Protein is best for dogs with severe or complex allergies, while Selected Protein works well for dogs with moderate sensitivities or specific protein allergies.
Quick Recap: Key Differences Between Hydrolyzed and Selected Protein
- Protein Type: Hydrolyzed breaks down proteins; Selected uses novel whole proteins.
- Best For: Hydrolyzed Protein is ideal for severe allergies; Selected Protein is better for mild sensitivities.
- Digestibility: Hydrolyzed Protein is easier to digest for dogs with gastrointestinal issues.
- Palatability: Selected Protein tends to be more appealing for picky eaters.
- Price: Hydrolyzed Protein is generally more affordable.
With the right guidance, you can choose the best option to keep your dog healthy, happy, and allergy-free! 🐕🍲
Comment 1: “What’s the main reason a vet would recommend Hydrolyzed Protein over Selected Protein for my dog?”
A vet will recommend Hydrolyzed Protein over Selected Protein primarily when your dog’s allergies are severe or difficult to diagnose. Hydrolyzed protein has been broken down into such small molecules that the immune system doesn’t recognize it as an allergen, meaning your dog is far less likely to have an adverse reaction. This makes it particularly effective for dogs with multiple protein sensitivities or for those whose allergic triggers are unknown. Hydrolyzed Protein is essentially a fail-safe solution when other diets haven’t worked because it bypasses the body’s usual allergic responses. Selected Protein, on the other hand, may still cause reactions if the novel protein (like duck or venison) is something your dog could be sensitive to, especially if they have a broad range of allergies. Hydrolyzed Protein is a more controlled and predictable approach for dogs who need maximum allergy protection.
Comment 2: “Can Hydrolyzed Protein or Selected Protein help with conditions other than allergies?”
Yes, both Hydrolyzed Protein and Selected Protein can be beneficial for conditions beyond just allergies. Hydrolyzed Protein is especially effective for dogs with gastrointestinal disorders like inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), chronic diarrhea, or vomiting. The breakdown of proteins into smaller particles makes it easier for the digestive system to process, reducing the likelihood of inflammation in the intestines. In fact, many vets prescribe Hydrolyzed Protein specifically for dogs with severe digestive issues because it helps stabilize the gut and prevent flare-ups.
Selected Protein can also assist dogs with sensitive stomachs or digestive problems, though it’s often chosen when a dog has mild to moderate sensitivities or intolerance to common proteins like chicken or beef. It can be useful in managing mild gastrointestinal symptoms without needing to resort to more processed hydrolyzed proteins. For dogs that don’t have severe digestive problems, Selected Protein can offer a gentler, more palatable alternative while still addressing food sensitivities.
Comment 3: “How long should my dog stay on a Hydrolyzed or Selected Protein diet before I see results?”
The time it takes to see results when switching to either Hydrolyzed Protein or Selected Protein depends largely on your dog’s individual condition, but typically, you should start noticing improvements within 4 to 6 weeks. For skin-related issues, such as itching, redness, or chronic ear infections, it may take a few weeks for the body to fully recover from the inflammation triggered by previous foods. However, digestive improvements, such as less gas, firmer stools, and reduced vomiting, can often be observed more quickly—sometimes within just a few days of starting the new diet.
It’s crucial to give the new food enough time to work, as both diets require complete elimination of any other food sources (such as treats or table scraps) to avoid contamination from allergens. In cases of severe food allergies or gastrointestinal issues, your vet may recommend staying on the diet for a minimum of 8 to 12 weeks to ensure that your dog’s system has fully adjusted. If no improvement is seen by then, your vet may suggest further diagnostics or adjustments to the diet. Consistency is key, so it’s important to feed only the prescribed diet and follow your vet’s guidance closely.
Comment 4: “If my dog is doing well on Hydrolyzed Protein, is there any benefit to switching to Selected Protein?”
If your dog is thriving on Hydrolyzed Protein, there’s typically no need to switch to Selected Protein, especially if they have a history of severe allergies or digestive issues. Hydrolyzed Protein is specifically designed to prevent allergic reactions by breaking down proteins into smaller, non-reactive molecules, making it the safest option for dogs with multiple or unidentified food allergies. However, if your dog’s allergies are well-managed and you want to offer more variety or a more natural protein source, switching to Selected Protein may be an option—under the close supervision of your vet.
Selected Protein diets use novel proteins that are less processed, potentially offering better palatability and a more natural nutrient profile for dogs who no longer need the extreme breakdown of proteins provided by Hydrolyzed Protein. That said, any switch should be done gradually and carefully monitored, as there’s always a risk that your dog could react to the new protein, even if it’s considered novel. The key benefit to switching might be improved enjoyment of the food, but it’s important to weigh that against the possibility of reintroducing allergic reactions.
Comment 5: “What happens if my dog refuses to eat the Hydrolyzed Protein food? Is Selected Protein more appetizing?”
Hydrolyzed Protein diets are known for their effectiveness in managing food allergies, but some dogs may find them less appetizing due to the way the proteins are processed, which can reduce the aroma and flavor. If your dog refuses to eat the Hydrolyzed Protein food, Selected Protein diets can often be more appetizing because they use whole, novel proteins like duck, rabbit, or venison, which tend to have a richer flavor profile and more natural texture.
Before switching, try making the Hydrolyzed Protein more palatable by adding a small amount of warm water to enhance the aroma or mixing in a vet-approved topper that won’t interfere with the hypoallergenic properties of the diet. If your dog continues to resist eating, Selected Protein can be a great alternative, especially for dogs who are picky eaters but don’t require the extreme allergen control provided by Hydrolyzed Protein. Always consult your vet before making any changes, as reintroducing whole proteins could trigger allergic reactions, especially if your dog’s allergies are severe.
Comment 6: “Can I give my dog treats while they’re on Hydrolyzed or Selected Protein diets, or should I avoid them?”
When your dog is on a Hydrolyzed Protein or Selected Protein diet, it’s important to avoid standard treats, as they can introduce allergens that might undermine the diet’s effectiveness. Even small amounts of regular treats can trigger allergic reactions or gastrointestinal upset. However, this doesn’t mean you have to eliminate treats entirely—there are hypoallergenic treats specifically designed to complement both Hydrolyzed and Selected Protein diets. These treats use the same hydrolyzed or novel protein sources as the diets, ensuring that they won’t disrupt your dog’s progress.
If your dog is on a Hydrolyzed Protein diet, look for treats that are made with hydrolyzed proteins or simple, single-ingredient options like baked sweet potato slices. For dogs on a Selected Protein diet, you can offer treats made with the same novel protein, such as duck or rabbit, to stay within the parameters of their dietary restrictions. Always consult with your vet before introducing any new treats to make sure they’re appropriate for your dog’s specific diet and won’t interfere with the therapeutic benefits of the food. Consistency is critical when managing food allergies, so even treats should be carefully selected to avoid flare-ups.
Comment 7: “How do I know if my dog’s digestive issues are improving on Hydrolyzed or Selected Protein diets?”
You’ll be able to tell if your dog’s digestive issues are improving on either Hydrolyzed Protein or Selected Protein by monitoring key signs of gastrointestinal health. Within the first week or two, you should notice improvements in your dog’s stool consistency—loose stools should become firmer, and any vomiting or regurgitation should decrease. A reduction in bloating, flatulence, and digestive discomfort is also a sign that the food is working. Dogs who previously struggled with food-related discomfort may appear more energetic and comfortable after eating, as their bodies adjust to the more digestible formulas of these specialized diets.
For dogs with chronic conditions like inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) or food sensitivities, a Hydrolyzed Protein diet tends to show faster digestive improvements because it reduces the immune system’s response to food and minimizes inflammation in the gut. Selected Protein diets may take a bit longer to show results, particularly if your dog is transitioning from a highly processed food or has multiple sensitivities to common proteins. Keep in mind that it can take 4 to 6 weeks to see full improvements, so patience and consistency are key. If there’s no noticeable improvement within this time frame, or if symptoms worsen, consult your vet to assess whether the diet is working or if further adjustments are needed.
Comment 8: “Are there any potential downsides to feeding my dog Hydrolyzed or Selected Protein diets long-term?”
While both Hydrolyzed Protein and Selected Protein diets are safe and nutritionally balanced for long-term feeding, there are a few considerations to keep in mind. One potential downside of Hydrolyzed Protein diets is that because the proteins are broken down into such small molecules, the food may be less palatable over time for some dogs. Additionally, the process of hydrolyzing proteins can slightly reduce the overall nutrient complexity compared to whole proteins, though both Royal Canin formulas are designed to be complete and balanced for your dog’s needs.
Selected Protein diets generally provide a more natural source of protein, but the availability and cost of novel proteins like duck or rabbit can make these diets more expensive and sometimes harder to find. Additionally, if your dog develops new allergies, you may run out of novel protein options that are safe to feed. However, most dogs do well on these diets long-term, and the key benefit is the prevention of allergic reactions or digestive flare-ups, which outweighs the potential drawbacks.
It’s important to regularly monitor your dog’s health, energy levels, and weight when feeding either diet long-term. If you notice any changes in their condition, such as weight loss, loss of appetite, or a return of allergy symptoms, consult your vet to ensure that the diet is still the best option for your dog’s evolving health needs.