Beyond the Bowl: Why Novel Protein Diets Are a Game-Changer

When it comes to feeding our dogs, the conversation is moving beyond tradition. Increasingly, dog carers are exploring alternatives to meat-heavy diets. This isn’t only about sustainability, it’s about recognising that many dogs can thrive on novel protein sources.

Why Consider a Novel Protein Diet? 

Just like people, dogs can develop sensitivities and intolerances to frequently used animal proteins, such as beef and chicken. These often show up as persistent itching, troublesome ear infections, or an upset stomach.

Research has shown that these are among the most common food allergens in dogs. A study published in BMC Veterinary Research identified beef, dairy, and chicken as frequent culprits in canine allergic reactions.

Novel protein diets - like Omni’s allergy-friendly, vet-formulated recipes - eliminate these triggers while still providing every essential nutrient your dog needs to stay healthy and happy.

At Omni, our diets are:

• Vet-formulated: Each recipe is designed by veterinary experts to meet complete and balanced nutritional standards.
  

• Built on novel proteins: We reduce the risk of allergic reactions by using proteins that are less common in dog food.
  

• Optimised for absorption: Our ingredients are chosen for high bioavailability, allowing your dog to efficiently absorb and use nutrients.
  

Dogs are omnivores, which means they can thrive on properly formulated diets that include high-quality plant and novel proteins. With the right balance of amino acids, vitamins, and minerals, these diets are scientifically proven to support long-term health.

A 2025 review published in Foods found that alternative and novel proteins such as lentils, yeast, and algae can fully meet canine amino acid requirements, making them safe and sustainable substitutes for traditional meat-based sources.

Similarly, the American Veterinary Medical Association (JAVMA) review (2023) concluded that carefully formulated elimination diets using novel proteins can improve skin and digestive symptoms in dogs with food allergies or intolerances.

When dogs switch to a novel protein diet, research shows key benefits including:

• Healthier skin and a shinier coat
  

• Fewer allergic flare-ups
  

• More consistent, balanced energy

A Modern View of Canine Nutrition

Switching to a novel protein diet isn’t about limiting your dog’s choices, it’s about expanding them. By avoiding the most frequent allergens, you give your dog the chance to thrive on food that is delicious, nutritionally complete, and supported by science.

At Omni, we understand how difficult it can be to watch your dog struggle with allergies and discomfort. That’s why our mission is simple: to make mealtimes healthier, safer, and more enjoyable, so bowls are emptied, and tails keep wagging.

Sources

• Mueller, R.S., Olivry, T., & Prélaud, P. (2016). Common food allergen sources in dogs and cats. BMC Veterinary Research. Available at: https://bmcvetres.biomedcentral.com/articles/10.1186/s12917-016-0633-8

• Klinmalai, P., et al. (2025). Comprehensive Review of Alternative Proteins in Pet Food. Foods (MDPI). Available at: https://www.mdpi.com/2304-8158/14/15/2640

• Jackson, H.A., et al. (2023). Food allergy in dogs and cats: current perspectives on diagnostics and therapeutic food options. Journal of the American Veterinary Medical Association (JAVMA). Available at: https://avmajournals.avma.org/view/journals/javma/261/S1/javma.22.12.0548.xml