13 Novel Protein Rabbit and Sweet Potato Dog Meals

Nature’s Select kicks off our list with a well-rounded formula that’s great for dogs of all ages, from playful puppies to serene seniors. The first ingredient is deboned rabbit, ensuring a high-quality protein source right from the start. It’s followed by sweet potato and peas, providing complex carbohydrates for sustained energy. What sets this food apart is its inclusion of a robust blend of probiotics and prebiotics, which work together to support a healthy gut microbiome. This is crucial for dogs with digestive sensitivities, as a balanced gut can improve nutrient absorption and overall immunity.

The formula is also enriched with omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids from flaxseed and fish oil, promoting healthy skin and a shiny coat – often the first things to suffer during an allergic reaction. It’s completely free of corn, wheat, soy, and artificial preservatives, making it a clean choice for your canine companion. The kibble size is moderate, making it suitable for a wide range of breeds.

Pros and Cons

Verdict: This is an excellent all-around choice for any dog owner looking to switch to a novel protein diet. Its focus on digestive health with added probiotics makes it particularly beneficial for dogs with sensitive stomachs.

For the dog who turns their nose up at dry kibble, Wilderness Peak’s Rabbit Stew is a game-changer. This canned wet food boasts a savory, chunky texture that even the pickiest eaters find irresistible. The primary ingredient is real rabbit, submerged in a flavorful rabbit broth that boosts both taste and moisture content. High moisture is great for hydration, especially for dogs who don’t drink enough water, and can also support urinary tract health.

The recipe is simple and grain-free, using sweet potatoes, carrots, and green beans to provide essential vitamins and fiber. It’s formulated as a complete and balanced meal, not just a topper, so you can be confident your dog is getting all the nutrients they need. It’s slow-cooked in small batches to preserve the integrity of the ingredients. The pull-tab can makes serving a breeze, whether you’re at home or on the go.

Pros and Cons

Verdict: If you have a discerning dog who deserves a gourmet meal, or a dog who needs extra hydration, Wilderness Peak Rabbit Stew is the perfect choice. It’s a delicious and nutritious way to manage food sensitivities.

When it comes to severe allergies, simplicity is key. Pure Vitality’s Limited Ingredient Diet (LID) formula is designed with exactly that in mind. It contains a minimal number of essential ingredients to reduce the chance of triggering a reaction. The recipe leads with rabbit meal, a concentrated source of protein, and features sweet potato as the single carbohydrate source. There are no other grains, fillers, or common allergens like chicken, beef, or dairy.

This formula doesn’t skimp on nutrition, despite its simplicity. It’s fortified with a carefully selected blend of vitamins and minerals to ensure it meets AAFCO standards for a complete and balanced diet. It also includes sunflower oil, a good source of omega-6 fatty acids, to help nourish the skin barrier from the inside out. This is a go-to option for veterinarians performing an elimination diet to pinpoint specific food allergies.

Pros and Cons

Verdict: For dogs with known severe food allergies or those undergoing an elimination trial under veterinary guidance, Pure Vitality LID is one of the safest and most effective options available.

For pet parents who believe in the power of raw nutrition, Summit Trail offers a convenient and safe alternative. These freeze-dried raw patties capture the nutritional benefits of a raw diet without the mess or hassle. The recipe is 95% rabbit, including ground bone and organ meats, which provide a natural source of calcium, glucosamine, and essential nutrients. The remaining 5% consists of organic fruits and vegetables, including sweet potatoes, blueberries, and spinach, for a boost of antioxidants and fiber.

The freeze-drying process gently removes water while locking in flavor and nutrients, resulting in a lightweight, shelf-stable product. To serve, you simply crumble the patties and rehydrate them with a bit of warm water. This creates a soft, savory meal that is highly digestible and bioavailable. It’s a fantastic way to provide a minimally processed, nutrient-dense diet that mimics what a dog might eat in the wild.

Pros and Cons

Verdict: This is a premium choice for the dedicated pet owner wanting to provide the benefits of a raw diet. It’s especially good for highly active dogs or those needing to build lean muscle mass.

Heartland Farms takes a ‘back to basics’ approach with their oven-baked kibble. Baking is a slower cooking process done at lower temperatures compared to traditional extrusion. Proponents of this method claim it helps retain more of the natural flavor and nutrients of the ingredients. The result is a denser, less processed-feeling kibble that many dogs love. Their Rabbit & Sweet Potato Bake features rabbit as the star protein, supported by wholesome ingredients like sweet potatoes, chickpeas, and flaxseed.

This formula is fortified with taurine for heart health and a blend of antioxidants from apples and carrots to support a strong immune system. The crunchy texture of the baked kibble also provides a gentle abrasive action that can help clean teeth and reduce tartar buildup. It’s a hearty, wholesome meal that feels like it came straight from a country kitchen.

Pros and Cons

Verdict: A great option for owners who appreciate a more natural, slow-cooked approach to dog food. The dental benefits of the crunchy baked kibble are an added bonus for maintaining oral health.

As our dogs enter their golden years, their nutritional needs change. Canine’s Choice Senior Vitality is specifically formulated to support the health of aging dogs. This recipe uses easily digestible rabbit protein to help maintain muscle mass without putting a strain on the kidneys. The sweet potato provides gentle energy, while added fiber from pumpkin helps keep the digestive system regular.

What makes this a standout senior formula is the inclusion of glucosamine and chondroitin, two powerhouse ingredients for supporting aging joints and improving mobility. It also has controlled levels of fat and calories to help prevent weight gain, a common issue in less active senior dogs. A blend of antioxidants is included to combat cellular aging and support cognitive function, helping to keep your old friend sharp and happy.

Pros and Cons

Verdict: If you have a senior dog struggling with sensitivities and joint stiffness, this is the perfect diet. It addresses multiple age-related issues in one thoughtful, novel-protein formula.

Puppies with sensitive tummies need a special kind of care. Pawsitive Start’s Puppy Growth formula provides all the building blocks for healthy development in a gentle, easy-to-digest recipe. High-quality rabbit provides the protein needed for growing muscles, while sweet potato offers the energy required for endless playtime. The kibble is perfectly sized for small puppy mouths, making it easy to chew and swallow.

This formula is packed with crucial nutrients for growth. It contains DHA, an omega-3 fatty acid found in mother’s milk, which is vital for brain and eye development. Calcium and phosphorus levels are precisely balanced for controlled bone growth, which is especially important for large-breed puppies. It’s a complete and balanced meal designed to give your sensitive pup the best possible start in life.

Pros and Cons

Verdict: For the puppy who is already showing signs of food sensitivities, this formula is a lifesaver. It provides targeted nutrition for growth without the common allergens that can cause issues.

Air-dried food offers a unique middle ground between kibble and freeze-dried raw. Alpine Provisions uses a gentle air-drying process that slowly removes moisture while preserving the nutritional value of the raw ingredients. The result is a jerky-like texture that is nutrient-dense and highly palatable. This method makes the proteins and nutrients easy for your dog’s system to absorb.

The recipe is simple and potent, with over 90% of the formula coming from rabbit meat, organs, and bone. Sweet potato, kelp, and flaxseed round out the ingredient list, providing fiber, minerals, and healthy fats. It can be served as a complete meal or used as a high-value training treat or meal topper to entice a picky eater. It’s a convenient way to feed a diet that’s close to raw without the need for refrigeration or rehydration.

Pros and Cons

Verdict: This is a premium, versatile option for pet owners who want the benefits of raw feeding with the convenience of kibble. It’s especially great for travel, hiking, or as a powerful meal enhancer.

For dogs who benefit from a variety of protein sources (as long as they aren’t common allergens), Coastal Catch offers an interesting blend. While rabbit is the primary novel protein, this formula is supplemented with ocean fish meal. This addition provides a powerful boost of omega-3 fatty acids, particularly EPA and DHA, which are renowned for their anti-inflammatory properties. This can be especially beneficial for dogs with itchy skin or stiff joints.

The carbohydrate base is sweet potato and tapioca, both gentle on the digestive system. The formula is also infused with a ‘superfood’ blend of coconut oil, kale, and blueberries to provide antioxidants and support overall wellness. This ‘surf and turf’ approach gives your dog a broader nutritional profile while still avoiding common triggers like chicken or beef.

Pros and Cons

Verdict: This is an ideal choice for dogs with sensitivities to poultry or red meat who could benefit from an extra anti-inflammatory boost for their skin or joints. It’s a nutritional powerhouse for overall vitality.

Simply Nourish Source offers a classic pâté-style wet food that is both nutritious and affordable. This smooth loaf is easy to mix with kibble or serve on its own, making it a great choice for dogs with dental issues or those who prefer a softer texture. Deboned rabbit is the first ingredient, followed by rabbit broth for moisture and flavor. Sweet potatoes, carrots, and peas are blended in to create a well-rounded meal.

This recipe is part of a limited ingredient line, focusing on a single animal protein source to minimize the risk of allergic reactions. It’s free from artificial colors, flavors, and preservatives. The smooth texture also makes it easy to stuff into puzzle toys or lick mats, providing mental enrichment alongside a healthy meal. It’s a straightforward, high-quality option that delivers on its promise of simple, nourishing ingredients.

Pros and Cons

Verdict: A fantastic and budget-friendly wet food option for pet owners looking for a simple, limited-ingredient rabbit formula. Its soft texture makes it incredibly versatile for all types of dogs.

TerraCanis is a German brand known for its human-grade ingredients, and this recipe is no exception. This isn’t just dog food; it’s a meal crafted with the same quality standards as food for people. The can is packed with fresh rabbit meat, heart, and liver, providing a rich and natural source of protein and vitamins. It’s gently cooked to preserve the nutrients and taste of the whole-food ingredients.

The addition of cranberries is a thoughtful touch, as they are known to support urinary tract health. Zucchini, chamomile, and linseed oil are also included, offering fiber, calming properties, and a rich source of omega fatty acids. This recipe is more of a gourmet stew than a simple loaf, with visible pieces of meat and vegetables. It’s a testament to the idea that our dogs deserve to eat as well as we do.

Pros and Cons

Verdict: For the pet parent who spares no expense and wants to provide a truly human-grade, gourmet meal, TerraCanis is in a class of its own. It’s a top-tier choice for ultimate health and wellness.

The Honest Kitchen bridges the gap between dry and wet food with its innovative dehydrated formulas. This recipe is made with human-grade ingredients that are finely diced and then gently dehydrated to remove moisture and lock in nutrients. To serve, you simply measure out the dry mix, add warm water, stir, and wait a few minutes for it to rehydrate into a warm, hearty meal. It’s like an ‘instant’ meal for your dog, but incredibly healthy.

This limited ingredient recipe features ranch-raised rabbit and a medley of organic produce like sweet potatoes, pumpkin, and parsley. Because it’s minimally processed, the nutrients are highly bioavailable. It’s also great for saving space, as a 10lb box rehydrates to make 40lbs of fresh food. This makes it an excellent option for those with limited storage or for traveling.

Pros and Cons

Verdict: Perfect for the health-conscious pet owner who loves the idea of fresh food but needs the convenience of a shelf-stable product. It’s a clean, simple, and highly nutritious choice.

Solid Gold has been a pioneer in holistic pet nutrition for decades, and their Leaping Waters formula is a testament to their experience. This grain-free and gluten-free kibble is designed for dogs with sensitive stomachs, featuring rabbit as a lean, easily digestible protein. It’s a balanced diet that incorporates a unique blend of 20 superfoods, including pumpkin, cranberries, blueberries, carrots, and broccoli, to provide a spectrum of natural antioxidants.

A key feature of Solid Gold’s approach is their focus on gut health. This recipe is fortified with protected living probiotics and prebiotic fiber to support a healthy digestive system from the inside out. The sweet potatoes and chickpeas provide a steady source of energy. This holistic approach aims not just to avoid allergens but to actively improve your dog’s overall well-being.

Pros and Cons

Verdict: A fantastic holistic option for pet owners who want to go beyond just managing sensitivities and actively boost their dog’s immune system and gut health with a nutrient-rich diet.

Navigating the world of dog food can feel overwhelming, but you’re already on the right track by researching novel proteins! Here’s what to keep in mind when choosing the perfect rabbit and sweet potato meal for your furry friend.

Read the Ingredient List First: The most important rule is to check the first few ingredients. You want to see ‘rabbit’ or ‘deboned rabbit’ listed as number one, not a carbohydrate or a lesser-quality ‘meat by-product’. This ensures the food is built around a high-quality protein source.

Why Rabbit?: Rabbit isn’t just a novel protein. It’s also a lean, low-cholesterol white meat that is an excellent source of Vitamin B12, which is crucial for a healthy nervous system and energy production. It’s naturally lower in fat than many other proteins, making it a great choice for maintaining a healthy weight.

The Role of Sweet Potato: Sweet potatoes are a nutritional powerhouse. They are an excellent source of dietary fiber, which aids in digestive health. They are also rich in vitamins A, C, and B6, as well as several minerals. As a complex carbohydrate, they provide a slow, sustained release of energy, avoiding the blood sugar spikes that can come from simple carbs or fillers like corn.

Wet vs. Dry vs. Alternative:

• Dry Kibble: Convenient, cost-effective, and good for dental health. Look for brands that are baked or minimally processed.
• Wet Food: Highly palatable and great for hydration. Ideal for picky eaters, seniors, or dogs with dental issues.
• Freeze-Dried/Dehydrated: Offers the nutritional benefits of raw food with the convenience of a shelf-stable product. Often the most nutrient-dense option, but also the most expensive.

Check for Unwanted Extras: Look out for artificial colors, flavors, and preservatives. A good-quality food doesn’t need them. Also, be mindful of fillers like corn, wheat, and soy, which offer little nutritional value and are common allergens themselves.

Consult Your Vet: Before making any major dietary changes, especially if your dog has health issues, it’s always best to have a chat with your veterinarian. They can help you confirm if a food sensitivity is the likely problem and guide you in choosing the best diet for your dog’s specific needs.

1. Is a rabbit and sweet potato diet good for all dogs?

While it’s specifically designed for dogs with food sensitivities to common proteins, a high-quality rabbit and sweet potato formula is a healthy and balanced choice for most adult dogs. Rabbit is a lean, nutritious protein. However, puppies and senior dogs have unique nutritional needs, so it’s best to choose a formula specifically designed for their life stage.

2. How do I transition my dog to a new food?

Never switch your dog’s food abruptly, as this can cause digestive upset. A gradual transition is key. Start by mixing a small amount of the new food (about 25%) with their old food (75%). Over the course of 7-10 days, gradually increase the amount of the new food while decreasing the old food until you have fully transitioned.

3. How can I tell if my dog has a food allergy or sensitivity?

Common signs include chronic itching, scratching, or licking (especially paws and ears), recurrent ear infections, hot spots, a dull or greasy coat, and digestive issues like gas, loose stools, or vomiting. If you notice these symptoms, it’s a good idea to consult your veterinarian to rule out other medical issues and discuss the possibility of a food trial.

4. Is grain-free always the better option?

Not necessarily. While many dogs with sensitivities benefit from grain-free diets, the true culprits are often the protein sources (like chicken or beef). Some dogs do have specific grain allergies, but for many, it’s not the primary issue. The most important thing is a high-quality, digestible diet. If you’re considering grain-free, look for formulas that use healthy alternatives like sweet potatoes, and discuss it with your vet, especially regarding any concerns about heart health (DCM).