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8 Best Dog Food for Ear Infections (2024)

Written by: Justin Palmer
Justin Palmer is a Certified Pet Food Nutrition Specialist and co-founder of iHeartDogs.com. Inspired by his rescued husky, Splash, he dedicated himself to learning about extending both the length and quality of her life. Splash lived and thrived until 18 years old, and now Justin is on a mission to share what he learned with other dog owners.Read more
| Published on March 13, 2024

Ear infections are a common problem for dogs, and they can be caused by a variety of factors, including allergies, bacteria, and yeast. While there are many treatments available to help alleviate the symptoms of ear infections, one often overlooked solution is a change in diet. By feeding your dog a high-quality dog food that is specifically designed to promote ear health, you can help prevent ear infections from occurring in the first place.

When it comes to choosing the best dog food for ear infections, there are a few key factors to consider. First and foremost, you want to look for a dog food that is made with high-quality, natural ingredients. This means avoiding foods that are high in artificial preservatives, colors, and flavors, as well as those that contain fillers like corn, wheat, and soy.

Another important consideration is the type of protein used in the dog food. Many dogs are allergic to common proteins like chicken, beef, and lamb, which can exacerbate ear infections. Look for dog foods that use novel proteins like duck, venison, or fish, as these are less likely to cause allergic reactions.

Finally, you’ll want to consider the overall nutrient profile of the dog food. A dog food that is high in omega-3 fatty acids, antioxidants, and other key nutrients can help support your dog’s immune system and promote overall ear health.

In this article, we’ll take a closer look at some of the best dog foods for ear infections on the market today. We’ll examine the ingredients, nutrient profiles, and other key factors that make these dog foods stand out, so you can make an informed decision about which one is right for your furry friend.

Best Dog Food for Ear Infections

We understand that dealing with ear infections in dogs can be a frustrating and uncomfortable experience for both you and your furry friend. That’s why we’ve put together a list of the best dog foods for ear infections. These products have been carefully selected based on their high-quality ingredients and their ability to support your dog’s overall health and well-being. Whether your dog is dealing with chronic ear infections or you’re simply looking to prevent them, these dog foods are sure to help.

#1 – Dr. Harvey’s Specialty Diet Allergy Salmon Recipe

If you’re looking for a human-grade dog food that combats canine vulnerabilities from the inside out, Dr. Harvey’s Specialty Diet Allergy Salmon Recipe is worth considering.

Pros

  • The first ingredient is salmon, which is a great source of protein and omega-3 fatty acids.
  • Grain-free with limited ingredients for optimal digestion.
  • Enriched with prebiotic and probiotic cultures for gut health and a strong immune system.

Cons

  • A bit pricey compared to other dog foods.
  • Some dogs may not like the taste of the food.
  • The feeding guideline may not be suitable for all dogs.

Dr. Harvey’s Specialty Diet Allergy Salmon Recipe is a great option for dogs with skin, stomach, and environmental sensitivities. It’s made with premium and balanced superfoods that fortify your dog’s immune system the clean and healthy way. Simply add hot water and Dr. Harvey’s Fish Oil to make a complete, homemade meal for your dog in minutes.

This dog food is made in the USA with all ingredients dehydrated only in the USA. The 5-pound bag makes up to 20 pounds of hydrated dog food, and the feeding guideline is included for your convenience.

If you’re looking for a high-quality dog food that’s gentle on your furry friend’s stomach and helps combat allergies, Dr. Harvey’s Specialty Diet Allergy Salmon Recipe is worth considering.

#2 – Forza10 Dermo Allergy Dog Food

If your dog is suffering from skin allergies or minor skin ailments, Forza10 Dermo Allergy Dog Food may be worth considering.

Pros

  • Specially formulated to help improve dry skin and provide relief for minor skin ailments and allergies for sensitive skin while promoting overall dog health and wellness.
  • Contains hydrolyzed fish protein which helps with food allergy and inflammatory bowel disease.
  • Developed to improve skin health, eliminate most allergens that can cause skin and coat issues.

Cons

  • Some customers have reported that the smell is unpleasant.
  • A few customers have reported that their dog did not like the taste of the food.
  • The price is higher compared to other dog food brands.

Forza10 Dermo Allergy Dog Food is rich in raw fish proteins, fiber, and omega 3 fatty acid. It is also free from GMOs, gluten, artificial colors, and flavors. This dog food may be able to help with skin problems such as dermatitis, itching, redness, hot spots, and dandruff.

Overall, if your dog is experiencing skin allergies or minor skin ailments, Forza10 Dermo Allergy Dog Food may be a good option to consider. However, it is important to note that some customers have reported that the smell is unpleasant and the price is higher compared to other dog food brands.

#3 – GO! SOLUTIONS Skin + Coat Care – Dry Dog Food

If you’re looking for a high-quality dog food that supports healthy skin and a shiny coat, GO! SOLUTIONS Skin + Coat Care is an excellent choice.

Pros

  • Made with premium-quality de-boned turkey as the first ingredient
  • Contains omega fatty acids from salmon oil to support healthy skin and a shiny coat
  • Includes probiotics and prebiotic fiber from dried chicory root to support healthy gut bacteria and good digestion

Cons

  • Contains grains, which some dogs may be sensitive to
  • Some dogs may not like the taste
  • More expensive than some other dog food brands

This dry dog food is made with natural ingredients and is complete and balanced for dogs of all ages. It contains no by-product meals, artificial preservatives, chicken, potatoes, legumes, wheat, corn, or soy.

In addition to supporting healthy skin and a shiny coat, this dog food also includes antioxidant-rich fruits and veggies to support immune system health and whole grains for an excellent source of energy.

Each GO! SOLUTIONS healthy dog food recipe has been crafted by a team of qualified and passionate pet nutritionists to provide solutions for your dog’s unique dietary needs and taste preferences.

Overall, if you’re looking for a high-quality dog food that supports healthy skin and a shiny coat, GO! SOLUTIONS Skin + Coat Care is definitely worth considering. However, it is more expensive than some other dog food brands and may not be suitable for dogs with grain sensitivities.

#4 – Stella & Chewy’s Stella’s Solutions Skin & Coat Boost Grass-Fed Lamb & Wild-Caught Salmon Dinner Morsels Freeze-Dried Raw Dog Food, 13 oz (SOL-FDLSSC-13) Lamb & Salmon (Skin & Coat Boost) 13 Ounce (Pack of 1)

If you’re looking for a dog food topper that promotes healthy digestion and intestinal health, Stella & Chewy’s Stella’s Solutions Skin & Coat Boost Grass-Fed Lamb & Wild-Caught Salmon Dinner Morsels Freeze-Dried Raw Dog Food is a great option.

Pros

  • Made with all-natural, active ingredients like pumpkin and chicory root for overall intestinal and gut health.
  • Responsibly sourced animal-based protein from multiple meat sources for protein-rich taste dogs crave.
  • Grain-free, pea-free, lentil-free, and potato-free, with no fillers, legumes, artificial colors, flavor, or preservatives.

Cons

  • Some customers may find it pricey compared to other dog food toppers.
  • Some dogs may not like the taste or texture of the freeze-dried raw morsels.
  • May not be suitable for dogs with certain dietary restrictions or allergies.

Stella & Chewy’s Stella’s Solutions Skin & Coat Boost Grass-Fed Lamb & Wild-Caught Salmon Dinner Morsels Freeze-Dried Raw Dog Food is an all-in-one supplement and feeding solution that helps with indigestion relief for dogs, overall gut health, and digestive boost, and adds the benefit of raw nutrition to a dog’s diet in one convenient dog food. Bonus: Even the pickiest pups go wild for this dog food topper!

This dog food topper is made in the USA in Stella & Chewy’s own kitchen with grass-fed beef. Each ingredient is responsibly sourced, and the recipe includes added taurine. With low carbohydrates and no fillers, legumes, artificial colors, flavor, or preservatives, these recipes will feed your dog’s wild side.

Overall, Stella & Chewy’s Stella’s Solutions Skin & Coat Boost Grass-Fed Lamb & Wild-Caught Salmon Dinner Morsels Freeze-Dried Raw Dog Food is a great option for pet parents seeking to add nutrition, reward their pet for good behavior, or entice a picky eater. It’s the perfect training treat or snack, as your dog will simply love them.

#5 – ORIJEN AMAZING GRAINS Original Dry Dog Food

If you’re looking for a high-quality dog food that can help support your furry friend’s immune system, skin, and coat, ORIJEN AMAZING GRAINS Original Dry Dog Food is a great option to consider.

Pros

  • Contains 90% animal ingredients to provide your dog with a strong source of protein, vitamins, and minerals
  • Includes DHA and EPA from whole herring, mackerel, and pollock oil to help support immune function, healthy skin, and a shiny coat
  • Features prebiotics, probiotics, and soluble and insoluble fiber from inulin and amazing grains to support your dog’s digestive health

Cons

  • Has a strong fish smell that may not be appealing to some dogs and their owners
  • Contains grains sourced from non-GMO crops, which may not be suitable for dogs with grain sensitivities
  • Higher price point compared to some other dog food options on the market

ORIJEN AMAZING GRAINS Original Dry Dog Food is made with fresh or raw chicken, turkey, chicken liver, whole herring, and whole mackerel, giving your dog a strong source of protein, vitamins, and minerals. The freeze-dried dog food coating provides a burst of flavor that dogs instinctively crave.

This dog food kibble is tailored to provide maximum nutrition for dogs by helping support three key benefits: digestive health, immune support, and healthy skin and coat. The first five ingredients are fresh or raw poultry and fish to provide your dog with a strong source of protein, vitamins, and minerals, as well as grains sourced from non-GMO crops.

Overall, ORIJEN AMAZING GRAINS Original Dry Dog Food is a high-quality dog food that can help support your dog’s overall health and wellbeing. While it may not be suitable for dogs with grain sensitivities, it’s a great option for those looking for a dog food that contains a high percentage of animal ingredients.

#6 – Earth Animal Wisdom Air-Dried Dog Food | From the Sea Recipe Premium Natural Dog Food | All Breeds & Ages | Made in The USA | 2 Pound Bag From the Sea 2 Pound (Pack of 1)

If you’re looking for a premium dog food that is gentle on your dog’s stomach and helps prevent ear infections, Earth Animal’s Wisdom Air-Dried Dog Food is a great option to consider.

Pros

  • The premium protein from wild-caught catfish and clams, combined with sustainably sourced sardines, is perfect for sensitive stomachs and rotational feeding.
  • The unique holistic formula enriched with organic sprouted seeds is highly digestible and helps nurture your dog’s gut health.
  • The jerky-like texture of the food makes it a great alternative to processed kibble, and dogs of all sizes and ages love the natural taste of seafood.

Cons

  • The price may be a bit expensive for some pet owners.
  • Some dogs may not like the taste or texture of the food, so it may not be the best option for picky eaters.
  • The food can be difficult for small breeds to chew.

Earth Animal’s Wisdom Air-Dried Dog Food is a premium dog food that combines quality ingredients including real organ and muscle meat, ancient grains, fruits and vegetables, and vitamins and minerals. The gentle air-drying process helps retain high nutrient density, making it a great alternative to processed kibble.

This dog food is made with integrity by Earth Animal, a trusted B Corp that uses the Earth’s finest ingredients, the best cooking processes, and the most stringent safety controls to make premium nutrition that can be easily scooped and served.

Overall, if you’re looking for a high-quality, nutritious dog food that can help prevent ear infections and is gentle on your dog’s stomach, Earth Animal’s Wisdom Air-Dried Dog Food is definitely worth considering.

#7 – Blue Buffalo True Solutions Perfect Skin & Coat Natural Adult Dry Dog Food

We highly recommend Blue Buffalo True Solutions Perfect Skin & Coat Natural Adult Dry Dog Food for dogs with sensitive skin.

Pros

  • Formulated with high-quality salmon and wholesome ingredients to care for your dog’s sensitive skin naturally
  • Clinically proven to support healthy skin and shiny coat with omega 3 & 6 fatty acids
  • Natural ingredients recommended by veterinarians, including antioxidant-rich LifeSource Bits

Cons

  • Expensive compared to other dog food brands
  • Some customers reported their dogs not liking the taste of the food
  • Packaging may vary

Blue Buffalo True Solutions Perfect Skin & Coat Natural Adult Dry Dog Food is a great option for dogs with sensitive skin. The formula contains high-quality salmon and wholesome ingredients like fruits and vegetables that help care for your dog’s skin naturally. It is also enriched with vitamins, minerals, and other nutrients to support your dog’s overall health.

The omega 3 & 6 fatty acids in this dog food are clinically proven to support healthy skin and a shiny coat. The natural ingredients in this dog food are recommended by veterinarians, and it contains antioxidant-rich LifeSource Bits to support your dog’s immune system.

However, some customers reported that this dog food is expensive compared to other brands, and some dogs did not like the taste of the food. Additionally, the packaging may vary.

Overall, if you’re looking for a dog food that can help manage your dog’s sensitive skin, Blue Buffalo True Solutions Perfect Skin & Coat Natural Adult Dry Dog Food is a great option to consider.

#8 – IAMS Advanced Health Skin & Coat Chicken and Salmon Recipe Adult Dry Dog Food

We highly recommend IAMS Advanced Health Skin & Coat Chicken and Salmon Recipe Adult Dry Dog Food to pet owners who want to ensure their furry friends have the best nutrition possible.

Pros

  • The IAMS SMARTCOAT blend with Omega fatty acids, zinc, and vitamin E promotes skin health and coat luster.
  • The crunchy kibble helps reduce plaque buildup that can lead to bad breath.
  • The formula is free from artificial preservatives or flavors.

Cons

  • Some dogs may not find the taste of the kibble appealing.
  • The price point may be higher than other dog food brands.
  • The product may not be suitable for dogs with certain allergies or dietary restrictions.

This chicken and salmon recipe is formulated without fillers, artificial flavors, or preservatives. It contains salmon and the IAMS SMARTCOAT Blend, which includes a clinically proven Omega 6:3 fatty acid ratio, Zinc, and Vitamin E to support and promote coat health. Beet pulp and FOS are added to help support healthy digestion. The kibble is made with real, farm-raised chicken and whole grains, which builds strong muscles with quality protein sourced from real chicken. Veterinarians recommend IAMS, and this premium tailored recipe ensures that your dog will always be at their best.

In conclusion, IAMS Advanced Health Skin & Coat Chicken and Salmon Recipe Adult Dry Dog Food is a great choice for pet owners who want to provide their dogs with a healthy and nutritious diet. The formula is designed to support your dog’s whole-body health, and it contains essential nutrients and antioxidants without any artificial preservatives or flavors.

Dog Food for Ear Infections Buying Guide

When it comes to choosing the best dog food for ear infections, there are a few key features to look for. Here are some of the most important factors to consider:

Ingredients

The ingredients in your dog’s food can have a big impact on their overall health, including their ear health. Look for high-quality, whole food ingredients like meat, vegetables, and fruits. Avoid fillers like corn, wheat, and soy, which can cause inflammation and may exacerbate ear infections.

Nutritional Balance

A well-balanced diet is essential for supporting your dog’s immune system and overall health. Look for dog foods that provide a complete and balanced nutritional profile, including protein, fat, and carbohydrates. Additionally, some dogs may benefit from added supplements like omega-3 fatty acids, which can help reduce inflammation and support skin and coat health.

Limited Ingredients

If your dog has a history of ear infections or other health issues, you may want to consider a limited ingredient dog food. These foods typically contain a smaller number of ingredients, making it easier to identify potential allergens or irritants. Additionally, limited ingredient dog foods may be less likely to cause inflammation and other health problems.

Grain-Free Options

While grains are not inherently bad for dogs, some dogs may be sensitive to them. If your dog has a history of ear infections or other health issues, you may want to consider a grain-free dog food. These foods typically use alternative sources of carbohydrates, like sweet potatoes or peas, instead of grains.

Wet vs. Dry

Both wet and dry dog food can be good options for dogs with ear infections, but there are some differences to consider. Wet dog food may be easier for some dogs to digest, and it can help increase their overall water intake. Dry dog food, on the other hand, can help promote dental health by removing plaque and tartar from teeth.

By considering these factors and choosing a high-quality dog food that meets your dog’s nutritional needs, you can help support their overall health and reduce the risk of ear infections.

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