If there’s one thing my dogs have taught me, it’s how important the right food is for their wellbeing. Over the years, I’ve spent countless hours studying dog diets, consulting experts and trialling different foods with my own pack of spaniels and retrievers. One lesson that’s consistently stood out: a dog with a sensitive stomach or itchy skin can thrive on a novel protein diet.
Let’s explore what that means and why it matters.
What Is a Novel Protein?
A novel protein is simply a protein source your dog hasn’t been exposed to before. Think duck or venison for instance. Because food allergies and intolerances in dogs often develop from repeated exposure to common proteins, switching to a novel one gives their digestive system a break and reduces the risk of flare-ups.
If your dog is constantly scratching, struggling with loose stools or suffering from irritated skin, their food might be the culprit. More specifically, the protein in it might be.
Why Sensitive Dogs Often Need Novel Proteins
In my experience, the signs of food sensitivities can be subtle or confusing. A sensitive dog may still eat enthusiastically, but have low energy, poor coat condition or digestive troubles.
This is where novel protein dog food can make an impact.
Dogs, like us, thrive on variety, but when their immune system starts reacting negatively to a commonly fed protein source, it might be time for a dietary rethink.
By shifting to a protein diet based on something new and less likely to cause a reaction – like our new Cold-Pressed Game food (made with duck and venison) – we’re giving their system something that feels brand new. Their immune response doesn’t enter overdrive, and their gut can start healing.
The Science Bit
When a dog’s body identifies a protein as a threat, it launches an immune response. This can show as itchy paws, ear infections, vomiting, diarrhoea or even chronic inflammation. It’s a bit like us developing an allergy to a food we’ve eaten for years.
Switching to a novel protein reduces this stress. A gentler approach exists, especially when combined with high-quality, minimally processed dog food that supports rather than overwhelms the gut.
That’s one of the reasons why we created and launched our Cold-Pressed Game recipe. It’s not only made with nutrient-rich, highly palatable duck and venison, it’s also grain-free, gently pressed, low in fat and easy to digest, making it perfect for dogs with sensitive stomachs.
Whole Health from the Inside Out
Avoiding allergic reactions is not the only concern. Novel proteins like duck and venison bring their own unique nutritional benefits.
Duck is rich in iron, amino acids and fatty acids, which promote healthy skin and coat.
Venison is lean but packed with high-quality protein, B vitamins and zinc, which are great for muscle health and immune function.
Over the years, I’ve heard from countless dog owners looking for a natural, nutritionally balanced diet for dogs with sensitivities. Something more than standard “hypoallergenic” labels. Many had tried raw, others were looking for a gentler, more digestible option without compromising on quality or flavour.
That’s why we created our Game range: to offer a novel protein diet that’s not only ideal for sensitive dogs, but also delicious, high in nutrients and easy to incorporate into everyday feeding.
Cold-pressed Game food – complete and balanced diet – gently-pressed, low-fat and grain-free.
Freeze-dried Game treats – light, soft, protein-rich and incredibly palatable.
Air-dried Game treats – chewy and delicious – perfect for training or rewarding.
Each product is made using limited, novel protein sources and no unnecessary fillers – just premium nutrition designed to help dogs thrive.
Supporting Your Dog’s Digestive System
A sensitive dog needs food that soothes, not stresses, their gut. Our dogs’ digestive systems are still designed to process meat as their primary energy source, and novel proteins tend to be more bioavailable and easier for their bodies to absorb and use.
What we often overlook is that feeding a wide range of low-grade ingredients, fillers or over-processed proteins can quietly erode a dog’s digestive health over time.
We wanted to change that.
All James & Ella recipes are made with a short, honest ingredient list. They’re packed with prebiotics for gut health, omega-rich oils for inflammation and joint support, and of course, quality proteins to keep your dog thriving.
Who Should Consider a Novel Protein Diet?
If your dog shows any of the following, it might be time to explore a novel protein pet food:
Chronic itching or licking
Recurring ear infections
Loose stools or digestive upset
Poor coat quality
Low appetite or fussiness
A history of reacting poorly to certain foods
Novel proteins aren’t just for dogs with problems, they’re also a fantastic preventative measure. I believe in feeding dogs a species-appropriate, varied diet that gives their body the best chance at long-term health. For sensitive dogs, a novel protein like duck, venison or wild boar isn’t just helpful, it’s often essential.
From My Pack to Yours
I live with six dogs (at the time of writing – though we’ve had more). I know how overwhelming it can feel trying to do the right thing for them, especially regarding food. One of the biggest lessons I’ve learned is that less is often more: fewer ingredients, higher quality, and a protein that truly suits their individual needs.
That’s why I developed James & Ella – backed by science, shaped by personal experience, and always with your dog’s health and happiness in mind.
So, if your dog’s a bit scratchy, a bit off, or just not quite themselves, consider giving novel protein a try. Our Game range is where I’d start, and if you’re still unsure, feel free to book a call with our in-house nutritionist for a free 1-1 nutrition consultation!
Until next time,
James x
