Many dog owners are surprised to learn that chicken, one of the most popular ingredients in dog food, is also one of the most common dietary triggers for dogs. It seems counterintuitive. Chicken is lean, full of protein, and widely used in “sensitive” or “grain-free” diets. So why the issues?
1. Overexposure is a big part of the problem
Chicken has been used in commercial dog food for decades because it’s inexpensive and easy to process. Many dogs end up eating chicken-based kibble, treats, and chews every single day, sometimes for years.
That constant exposure can lead the immune system to overreact to chicken proteins, classifying them as harmful. The result is an intolerance, showing up as itching, paw licking, ear infections, digestive upset, or general discomfort.
2. It’s often poor-quality chicken
Mass-produced pet food rarely uses the same quality of chicken we’d cook at home. It can include rendered by-products, heavily processed protein meals, and even residues from antibiotics or feed additives. These can change how your dog’s body recognises the protein, increasing the likelihood of a negative reaction.
3. It’s not a true allergy (but it feels like one)
Most dogs don’t have a true allergy to chicken, which involves an immune IgE response, but rather an intolerance or sensitivity, meaning their body struggles to digest or process it properly. The symptoms can look similar, but intolerance typically builds up slowly over time.
4. Rotating proteins can help
Feeding your dog the same protein year-round isn’t ideal. Just like people, dogs benefit from variety. Rotating proteins (for example, lamb, duck, or fish) and using an intolerance screening, such as Paw Print Health's Complete Intolerance Screening, can help you spot which foods are best tolerated, before problems arise.
🐶 Bottom line...
Chicken might seem harmless, but for many dogs, it’s a silent irritant. Understanding your dog’s sensitivities and adjusting their diet accordingly, can make all the difference to their skin, digestion, and energy levels.
To find out more about Paw Print Health's Complete Intolerance Screening for dogs - click here.
