best homemade food for dogs with yeast infections
Quick and Easy Homemade Dog Food For Yeast Infections (Foolproof Recipe)
Key Takeaways
- Yeast infections are as common for dogs as for us humans, and can be caused by poor diet or abnormal immune system activity.
- However, you can control your dogs food intake to mitigate the problem by starving the yeast of the nutrients it needs to survive.
- The following recipe of homemade dog food for yeast infections is one of the best dog food recipes Ive tried for that purpose.
Even the toughest, most stoic, and well-trained and active dogs can crumble into an itching mess when a yeast infection rolls around. The good news is that making your own homemade dog food for yeast infections is exceedingly simple. All you need are skinless chicken thighs, frozen vegetables, and the main yeast-killing ingredient, garlic. Cook these in a slow cooker and you have an anti-yeast dog food!
Just like humans, dogs can develop yeast infections. These infections can sometimes become chronic in nature. Whether or not they are, however, yeast infections will make your dogs skin very uncomfortable. Ive only really seen a handful of instances in which a dog was seemingly ignoring their yeast infection, and those dogs were either too old or sickly to care. One of the best ways to help your dog get over a yeast infection is by optimizing their diet. Do this by cutting out the pro-yeast stuff and giving them a healthy helping of natural anti-fungal ingredients. But while diet is important, I always advise dog owners to let the vet take a look at their dog if its the first time theyve gotten a yeast infection. This is always good practice before trying any home remedies, including an anti-yeast diet. Depending on your dogs physiology, sometimes that might not be enough and could be an exercise in futility, or worse even harm your dog. They should be able to tell you for sure if its worth going down that path. Still, more than a few vets have approved my homemade anti-yeast dog food, so Im confident yours will too, but again, it cant hurt to ask.
How Dogs Get Yeast Dermatitis
Yeast infections in dogs are referred to by veterinarians as yeast dermatitis. This condition is caused by an overgrowth of yeast microorganisms.
Just like us, dogs have a type of yeast called Malassezia living on their skin at all times. Although the yeast rarely causes problems, it can end up multiplying at an accelerated rate.
This often happens due to dietary issues, but anything that could decrease or even increase immune system activity can cause an overgrowth of yeast on your dogs skin.
Symptoms of Canine Yeast Dermatitis
One of the first symptoms pet parents may notice in dogs is constant scratching. Does your dog constantly scratch his ears or back? Theres a high chance it could be yeast infection. Itching becomes intense with severe yeast infections and should be monitored. The following are other symptoms you may notice withcanine yeast dermatitis.
- Red, inflamed skin
- Cracked lips
- Chewing at the paws
- Foul odors
The Optimal Homemade Dog Food For Yeast Infections
Before I share the recipe and instructions with you, I want to give you a warning. This dog food does not supply dogs with adequate and balanced nutrition for the long term.
Have you heard of the yeast starvation diet? It essentially just means you have to cut off carbs and sugars in order to restore the balance of yeast in the body. Of course, this also means going with yeast-free dog food, so no bread or bread-adjacent ingredients (kibble is notorious for having a lot of these!).
This literally starves the yeast cells of usable nutrients, making them die off if it is maintained for a long enough period. Hence, the best yeast starvation dog food to give your dog would be one that keeps to the regular diet that your dog eats, which should be full of protein, but without anything that could supply the yeast with energy. This means removing potatoes, yeast, and grains from your dogs diet. These foods have higher sugar content which feeds the yeast and makes them proliferate.
There are a number of dog food recipes out there for a yeast starvation diet, but I find this one to be the easiest and most accessible to make, while still being very effective.But if cooking your own dog food isnt for you, you may also try checking the best fresh dog food delivery service brands today for meals that are customized depending on the needs of your pet.
Ingredients
The ingredients for thishomemade dog foodare simple, and you likely already have them in your home.
- 3 pounds of boneless skinless chicken thighs
- 2 cloves of garlic
- 1 pound of frozen vegetables
You may be surprised to hear I included garlic in this homemade dog food recipe. Like some pet parents, you may think garlic is toxic to dogs. While experts disagree on whether or not thats true, the reality is that plenty of dog owners have been feeding their dogs garlic without ill effects, and its a fairly common ingredient in commercial dog food.
Garlic is only toxic to dogs in large amounts. Small amounts are highly beneficial to them. Garlic is a powerfulnatural antibiotic for dogs,able to perform well as an antifungal, antibacterial, and anti-parasite agent.
Directions
What I really love about this recipe is that you can cook it in a slow cooker. All you have to do is throw all the ingredients, except the veggies, in the slow cooker before work and your dogs dinner will be ready when you get home.
You should cook the ingredients for about six hours on low. Do not add the frozen vegetables until the last 30 minutes. Allow the dog food to cool completely before serving.
How Much Homemade Dog Food Should You Feed For Yeast Infections?
You should feed your dog 1/2 cup of this dog food for every 20 pounds of their body weight. Provide your dog with two servings a day, adjusting for how active they are, whether theyre nursing, and other factors. Consult with your vet if you have concerns.
How to Store This Homemade Recipe Once Cooked
You should store the homemade dog food in an airtight container in the fridge. This recipe will keep for about six days, and it freezes well if you make too much or just want to cook extra.
Tips for Treating Canine Yeast Infections
Chronic yeast infections will likely require an anti-yeast diet. The above recipe is a basic starting point.Yeast infections are sometimes difficult to get rid of if your dog has allergies or a poor immune system[1], so you may need to consult with your vet if the infection does not respond to your efforts.
In addition to the recipe above, I also recommend the following tips.
- Feed your dog a raw diet of mostly meat. Follow my raw dog food recipes for skin allergies.
- Try a limited ingredient diet. The main ingredient should be meat, and the food should contain no grains.
- Minimize processed pet foods always. Make suretreatsand food do not contain high fructose corn syrup or any sugar derivative.
- Prioritize protein in your dogs diet.
Foods to Avoid When Your Dog Has a Yeast Infection
- Crackers
- Bread
- Bacon
- Cheese
- Mushrooms
- Peanuts
- Buttermilk
- Lunch meat
- Fruit
- Peanuts
Frequently Asked Questions
1.What can I feed a dog with a yeast infection?
You should stick to a basic diet that is free of grain and processed foods. The recipe above is a good starting point. Focus on protein and veggies to get rid of the yeast infection.
2.How do I starve my dogs yeast?
Sugar is the biggest food source for yeast. The glucose in foods can feed the yeast and make them thrive and increase. Eliminate all forms of sugar from your dogs diet, including those found in grains and fruits.
3.What ingredient in dog food causes yeast infections?
Sugar can cause yeast to grow in numbers. If your dogs immune systems cannot handle fighting the yeast, infections will occur. While sugar does not cause a yeast infection, it can cause yeast to grow in numbers and will make a yeast infection worse.Yeast in bread and carbohydrates also excel at supplying yeast with energy.
10 Best Dog Foods for Yeast Infections 2023 (Premium & Budget)
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Last Updated on April 24, 2023
Yeast infections arent just a human problem dogs get them too!
Often confused for skin allergies, yeast infections can be a depressing and often frustrating chronic problem that causes your dog to itch uncontrollably, smell bad, and look poorly.
You can treat a canine yeast infection with medicated shampoos, antibiotics, and by changing your dogs diet.
Top 5 Picks for Best Dog Food for Yeast Infections
Best Dog Food for Dogs with Yeast Infections (by Life Stage)
There arent any dog foods catered specifically to prevent or treat yeast infections, but there are certain ingredients that may exacerbate the problem.
While searching for the best anti-yeast dog food, you want to avoid starchy or sugary ingredients.
Best Puppy Food for Yeast Infections
All puppies require lots of calories to grow properly, but when you have a pup with a yeast infection, youll want to make sure that the calories come from protein instead of carbs or sugar.
1. Farmina Medium and Maxi Breed Puppy Food (Lamb & Blueberry)
Our rating: 4Top ingredients: Lamb, Dehydrated Lamb, Whole SpeltType: Dry
A medium-to-large-breed formulation that offers appropriate joint support.
Made from GMO-free ingredients such as sweet oranges and blueberries, your pup will be getting a highly nutritious and low-glycemic meal.
Pros:
- Wonderful option for dogs with allergies to peas or legumes
- Low-glycemic recipe that doesnt contain potatoes
Cons:
- Doesnt sit well with all dogs and have been known to cause loose stools
CHECK PRICE HERE
2. Zignature Zssential Multi-Protein Formula Grain-Free Dry Dog Food
Our rating: 4.5Top ingredients: Turkey, Turkey Meal, SalmonType: Dry
An all-encompassing formula that is gluten and grain-free. Whether puppy or adult, large breed or small, this is the kibble that is suitable for all.
With only the basic necessities, Zignature removes any potentially problematic ingredients. Its the best choice for sensitive pups.
Pros:
- 32% protein
- Has no common allergens like corn, potatoes, chicken, wheat, or soy
- With the added benefit of flaxseed oil which is a healthy source of omega-3 fatty acids for healthy skin and a shiny coat
Cons:
CHECK PRICE HERE
Best Adult Dog Food for Yeast Infections
The top picks for adult dog food are often made with natural ingredients or contain human-grade natural foods.
Pet owners who have dogs suffering from Malassezia or other forms of yeast infections know how tiresome home remedies can be.
The best dry dog food comes into play as it can help curb some of these itching problems.
1. NUTRISCA Dry Dog Food (Lamb & Chickpea)
Our rating: 5Top ingredients: Lamb, Lamb Meal, PeasType: Dry
A formula thats suitable for adult dogs of all breeds. This grain and starch-free dog food emulate a dogs natural diet.
This best value for money dog food has all the necessary ingredients and more. You can expect your dog to be better protected with the added antioxidants and minerals.
Pros:
- 30% protein
- A grain-free formula suitable for sensitive digestions
- Filled with antioxidant-rich ingredients such as blueberries and carrots
Cons:
- Contains chicken fat which is a controversial ingredient for dogs sensitive to poultry
CHECK PRICE HERE
2. The Honest Kitchen Limited Ingredient Diet Fish Recipe Grain-Free Dehydrated Dog Food
Our rating: 4Top ingredients: Dehydrated White Fish, Dried Organic Coconut, Dried ChickpeasType: Dehydrated
This list wont be complete without mention of The Honest Kitchen. Made from only six wholesome ingredients, it is easily digestible and packs a punch of nutrients.
Relatively pricey, its best recommended for dogs with severe allergies and super sensitive stomachs.
Pros:
- Limited ingredients mean a lower chance of having an allergic reaction
- Also comes in beef, duck, turkey, and chicken recipes
- Human-grade dog food
Cons:
- Must be prepared with carefully measured amounts of water and rehydrated prior to serving
- Doesnt come cheap
- Fishy smell might be too pungent for some
CHECK PRICE HERE
3. Rachael Ray Nutrish Natural Chicken & Veggies Recipe Dry Dog Food
Our rating: 4.5Top ingredients: Chicken, Chicken Meal, Dried PeasType: Dry
This recipe might have slightly lower protein levels than the rest of the dog food listed here, but it is a grain-inclusive option that offers wholesome carbohydrates.
If your dog is not too sensitive, they could benefit from this great value for money option!
Pros:
- 26% protein
- U.S-grown chickens as the first ingredient
- Perfect for adults of all sizes
- An affordable option for those on a budget
Cons:
- Not the best option for dogs with a high activity level
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4. Stella & Chewys Stellas Solutions Skin & Coat Boost Dinner Morsels Dog Food
Our rating: 5Top ingredients: Lamb, Salmon, Lamb Heart, Lamb LiverType: Freeze-dried
Use it as a topping or feed it on its own, this all-breed suitable formula is created specifically for your dogs coat health.
Fortified with omega fatty acids, biotin, vitamin E, and linoleic acid, it will help keep your poochs skin problems at bay. Say bye-bye to itchy skin and hair loss with Stella & Chewys limited ingredient recipe.
Pros:
- Contains pineapple, a natural anti-inflammatory fruit
- Includes superfoods such as chia seeds and fenugreek to combat yeast overgrowths
- Uses coconut flour as a binding agent which is much healthier for your doggo
Cons:
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5. CANIDAE Small Breed Adult Dry Dog Food
Our rating: 4.5Top ingredients: Chicken, chicken meal, peasType: Dry
One of the very few dog foods specially formulated for extra small dogs that protect against food allergies and yeast problems.
With novel protein from wild-caught salmon and zero grains, this is the perfect option for toy dogs with sensitivities.
Pros:
- Freeze-dried raw coated kibbles which are smaller and healthier for small breeds
- Contains probiotics for easy digestion
- Created with just eight key ingredients
Cons:
- Owners have complained of inconsistencies with the kibble
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6. Brothers Complete Dry Dog Food (Lamb and Egg)
Our rating: 4.5Top ingredients: Lamb meal, Dried whole eggs, Turkey mealType: Dry
Best-suited for dogs with advanced allergies or for dogs whose immune system needs a boost. This high-quality dog food comes in pellets instead of the common kibble.
A low carb and low glycemic choice which is high in amino acids, and for highly active dogs that require some assistance in the digestive department.
Pros:
- Includes digestive enzymes and both pre-and probiotics
- Natural preservatives are used in this wholesome dog food free from artificial fillers that may cause health issues
Cons:
- There was an owner who complained about this recipe giving their dogs tummy troubles
CHECK PRICE HERE
7. Earthborn Venture Dry Dog Food (Rabbit & Pumpkin)
Our rating: 4.5Top ingredients: Rabbit Meal, Pumpkin, TapiocaType: Dry
Earthborn Holistics Venture line actually has a few different flavors.
You can choose the exotic Alaskan pollock, wild boar, or this rabbit and pumpkin food formula. Its formulated specifically for dogs with skin and digestive problems.
Its protein source would not trigger and make yeast issues worse, and your pet will surely enjoy it.
Pros:
- Doesnt contain any eggs, by-products, or potatoes, which may cause allergies in some dogs
- The natural ingredients are highly digestible and high in both vitamins and minerals
Cons:
- Some owners may not be able to handle the smell
- Very few dogs have experienced loose stools
CHECK PRICE HERE
Best Senior Dog Food for Yeast Infections
Generally, older dogs require less fat and carbs. So, a senior pooch should stay away from overly starchy ingredients.
Even sweet potatoes, which have been touted as a healthy alternative to potatoes should be avoided.
1. Instinct Natural Dry Dog Food (Rabbit)
Our rating: 5Top ingredients: Rabbit, Salmon Meal, Menhaden Fish MealType: Dry
This freeze-dried raw coated kibble gives fido an extra push in the health department thanks to the high amounts of nutrients found in raw food.
You dont have to worry about any nasty additives such as artificial coloring, flavoring, or by-product meals. As an added bonus, this dog food is also free from potatoes and grains.
Pros:
- Naturally occurring omegas for healthy brain health and shiny fur
- Includes the necessary additives for a healthy digestive system and immunity
- Contains cranberries, a fruit high in antioxidants
Cons:
CHECK PRICE HERE
Understanding Yeast Infections In Dogs
The first thing you should know is that your dog did not contract an overgrowth of yeast from an infected dog or even person. It is not contagious at all.
A yeast infection can occur in any damp or moist area, such as the ears or skin folds. It can cause the leaky gut syndrome, which can aggravate yeast infections.
What Causes a Yeast Infection?
Yeast infections are caused by an imbalance of bacteria that naturally lives on canines called Malassezia and Candida.
An abundance of these bacterias may cause your dog to have ear infections if their ears arent cleaned and dried properly after a bath or swim.
A full-blown yeast infection can start with a shallow cut, an insect bite, or a compromised immune system; this is where diet can help.
Most common symptoms of yeast infections in dogs
Allergies may cause an overgrowth of yeast by compromising your dogs immunity, but a yeast infection can also cause allergies to develop, too.
| Symptoms of Yeast Dermatitis (Malassezia) | Symptoms of Candidiasis |
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What is an Anti-Yeast dog food?
Since yeast feeds on sugar, eliminating starch and glucose from your pet food can significantly starve the infection.
A diet high in antioxidants and vitamins can also strengthen your dogs immune system, which can help fight off future infections.
Many anti-yeast diets are low in starch and fortified with digestive enzymes. You can also look for omega oils and other supplements that will help strengthen your dogs skin and coat.
Best Anti-Yeast Dog Food Buying Guide
A balanced diet is a key to a healthy and happy fido. Even if he is suffering from chronic yeast infections, you want to make sure their dog food has all the essential nutrients.
Dog Nutrition 101: What kind of food does your dog need for Yeast Infection?
Different dog breeds have different nutritional needs, and so do dogs in various stages of their life.
Large breed puppies need carefully balanced amounts of calcium and phosphorus to ensure proper joint development.
Teeny tiny puppies will need more calories to sustain their fast metabolisms, plus they reach maturity much sooner than larger breeds.
On the other hand, senior dogs require fewer calories and may need softer dog food, depending on their activity level and dental health.
On the topic of activity level, the diet of adult dogs should help keep them at an optimum weight.
Things to look for when selecting dog food for Yeast Infection
Whether choosing a dog food off Amazon or Chewy, always ensure the dog food has a low glycemic index and high protein.
Allergies may aggravate yeast infections, so limited ingredient diets and even grain-free recipes may be a better choice for food-sensitive pups.
| Best ingredients for dogs with yeast infections | Worst ingredients for dogs with yeast infections |
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Wet, Semi-Moist, or Dry? Which food for Yeast Infection is best for your dog?
Choosing lean proteins over starchy foods is much more important than the texture of the food. Wet, raw, dry, or any type of food doesnt matter much.
When feeding dry kibble, pay attention to your dogs water intake, especially if your dog isnt fond of drinking water.
To grain or not to grain: Do dogs need grain-free food for Yeast Infection?
Grain-free dog food is best suited for dogs with grain allergies.
If your dog isnt grain-sensitive, theres no reason to put them on a grain-free diet, especially if they are a breed susceptible to heart disease.
Furthermore, grain-free doesnt mean anti-yeast. Many of these grainless options contain potatoes and other starchy foods, which are a no-no.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
How much food does your dog need when he has a yeast infection?
Continue feeding your dog according to his needs. Theres no need to change the amount of food unless you have been feeding your dog a lower-grade pet food with lots of fillers.
Superior quality dog food keeps canines full for longer, and you wont need to feed as much.
What should you do if your dog has sensitivities and allergies?
Try to figure out what is causing your dogs allergic reactions and eliminate that food from your dogs diet.
It can be challenging, but you can start with some of the more common allergens, such as beef, dairy, wheat, eggs, chicken, lamb, and soy.
What about homemade or raw diets for yeast infections?
Homemade or raw diets are great for dogs with allergies or yeast infections because you can control whats going into their meals.
Check out how Brittany dealt with her Samoyeds sensitivities through homemade food:
What can you give your dog for ear infections?
To help soothe your dogs itchiness, you can deposit some green tea, diluted apple cider vinegar, or medicated ear drops into your poochs ears.
You can also offer your pup some coconut oil for its antifungal properties. You should give 1 tsp for 10 lbs (4.5 kg) of body weight. Water can also help flush the toxins out.
How do you cure yeast infections in dogs?
The root cause of a yeast infection is your dogs immune system. In many dogs, yeast infections will be a chronic problem, and there is no actual cure.
However, you can manage it by using an appropriate shampoo and offering a suitable diet.
4 Simple Steps To Manage Yeast Infections In Dogs
Step 1: Treat the Itch
Check for hot spots and your dogs ears. You can help alleviate the itch with homemade remedies such as a vinegar rinse. You can also look for a benzoyl peroxide shampoo if theres waxy buildup all over your dog.
Step 2: Starve The Yeast
Starch only makes up about 4% of a wild dogs diet. Commercial kibbles often exceed ten times that amount, causing the yeast to multiply out of control.
Starve out the yeast by removing sugar, including carbs. Heavy metals also attract them, so make sure youre feeding your dog high-quality fish oil, GMO-free ingredients, and non-fluoridated water.
Step 3: Kill The Yeast
Add some yeast-killing food and supplements into your dogs diet. Garlic in small, controlled amounts can be beneficial to your dog. You only want to give tsp for every 5 lbs (2.2 kg) of your dogs weight.
Caprylic acid can also help your dog, but the dosage is around tsp for medium- to large breeds, and you will need to make your adjustments accordingly.
Powdered olive leaf has been proven to fight mange. Small dogs should have a tsp daily, medium-sized dogs at a teaspoon, and large dogs can have 1 tsp.
Pau DArco is a South American herb and should never be given to pregnant dogs.
Canine Herbalist Rita Hogan suggests that toy dogs should have no more than 100 mg, whereas giant breeds may have up to 500 mg.
Do note that as the yeast dies, it can cause your dog to react poorly and result in diarrhea, joint pain, nausea, or a worsening of their symptoms.
This yeast die-off may last a few days up to a few weeks, but its entirely normal and not life-threatening.
To prevent a severe yeast die-off, you can gradually increase the treatments intensity instead of making significant changes overnight.
Step 4: Boost Immunity
A healthy gut and balanced immune system will naturally prevent yeast infections.
Probiotics and prebiotics are great in this regard, and you can find them in dandelion root, burdock root, chlorella, and raspberries.
Fiber can increase the good bacteria in your dogs gut which will help control the growth of yeast in your dog. Thats why leafy greens are a great addition to your dogs diet.
Talk to your vet before choosing the best dog food for yeast infections
While some dogs can never be completely yeast-free, a suitable diet will help immensely in helping your dog live a comfortable life.
When choosing a diet for your dog, dont forget to take into account their activity level, breed size, and life stage.
Let us know in the comments if you have anything to add or a question we can help answer!
Further Reading: Got issues? Weve got solutions
Reference
Cess Gamas( Head of Content Marketing and Editor )Cess is the Head of Content Writing at K9 Web and a passionate dog care expert with over 5 years of experience in the Pet Industry. With a background in animal science, dog training, and behavior consulting, her hands-on experience and extensive knowledge make her a trusted source for dog owners.
When not writing or leading the K9 Web content team, Cess can be found volunteering at local shelters and participating in dog-related events.
