Novel & Single-Protein Raw Diets for Dogs with Allergies

Food allergies and intolerances are among the most common reasons Melbourne dogs itch, scratch and get upset tummies. The dietary answer is often a novel or single protein diet. Here's what that means, which proteins to try, and how to use them.

Single protein vs novel protein — what's the difference?

A single-protein diet contains just one animal protein source, so there's nothing to hide a trigger. A novel protein is one your dog rarely (or never) eats — so their immune system hasn't learned to react to it. The best allergy diets are often both: a single, novel protein.

The best novel & single proteins for dogs

• Kangaroo — lean, sustainable, genuinely novel for most dogs, and easy to digest. Shop kangaroo dog & cat food.
• Fish & salmon — rich in skin- and coat-supporting omega-3s; great for itchy dogs. Shop salmon & fish.
• Turkey — a leaner alternative to chicken for dogs that react to poultry staples.
• Goat, venison, duck — useful rotations once you've found what works.

Why raw makes single-protein feeding easy

Complete raw patties are frequently formulated as one protein plus bone, organ and veg — no grains, no mixed meat meals, no hidden proteins. That makes raw ideal for elimination diets. Browse single-protein raw and the wider raw & BARF range.

How to run an elimination trial

1. Choose one novel single protein your dog hasn't had.
2. Feed only that (and matching treats) for 6–8 weeks.
3. Track itching, ears, stools and energy.
4. Reintroduce other proteins one at a time to find triggers.

Transition gradually — follow the 7-day transition plan — and support digestion with our gut health range.

Watch the treats and extras

One chicken treat can undo an elimination trial. Match treats to your trial protein, and check labels on chews and dental products in our dental & oral care range.

Find your dog's protein

Start with kangaroo or salmon & fish, or the sensitive stomach range — delivered frozen across Melbourne. For the full method, read the sensitive stomach guide and the complete Melbourne raw feeding guide.