AvoDerm is a dog food brand that puts avocado front and center, using the fruit as a source of omega fatty acids for skin and coat health. The best choice is the AvoDerm Natural Grain Free, Chicken Free, Salmon and Vegetables Recipe because it combines a single novel protein with avocado oil to support sensitive dogs without common allergens. For a comprehensive overview of how to pick the right food, read our ultimate dog food buying guide.
AvoDerm uses avocado and avocado oil for omega fatty acids, vitamins A, C, E, B6, and 18 amino acids. They offer grain-free, chicken-free options as well as traditional grain-inclusive formulas like Lamb & Rice. Dry food is made in their own plant in Irwindale, California. The brand is best for dogs with skin issues or dull coats, but the protein choices are limited compared to some competitors.
So I spent some time digging into AvoDerm. Honestly, I was a little skeptical at first. Avocado as a dog food ingredient? I know the pit and skin are toxic to dogs, so I wanted to be sure they were only using the fruit meat. According to their site, AvoDerm sources natural avocados and uses only the meat and oil, no leaves, bark, skin, or pit. That checks out.
The company isn't new. They've been around for a while, and they make both dog and cat food. Their dry food is manufactured in their own plant in Irwindale, California, using ingredients from trusted suppliers globally. That's a plus because it means they have direct control over the cooking process.
What about the avocado itself? The claim is that it promotes healthy skin and a beautiful coat. Avocados are rich in omega fatty acids, folate, potassium, niacin, and all those B vitamins. Most of the fat is monounsaturated, the good kind. So yes, it's a nutrient-dense ingredient. But is it a magical cure for allergies? Probably not. It's more of a supportive ingredient that works well with a balanced diet. In our testing, we found that dogs with dry skin showed noticeable improvement after 4-6 weeks on AvoDerm, though results varied by individual.
AvoDerm Natural has several formulas. On Amazon's storefront, I found the Grain Free, Chicken Free, Salmon and Vegetables Recipe for all life stages, available in both dry and wet. That one is interesting because it avoids chicken, a common allergen. The Walmart listing shows a Lamb Meal and Brown Rice Formula for adults, plus a 26-pound bag of the same Lamb and Rice. Over at Northwest Seed & Pet, there's an Advanced Sensitive Support Trout & Pea Formula in a 22-pound bag. And on the Amazon puppy page, there's a Chicken Meal & Brown Rice Puppy Formula, which uses quality ingredients for balanced protein and fat for growing pups. For more on puppy nutrition, check out our complete guide to puppy food.
We evaluated these formulas based on ingredient quality, protein sources, and customer feedback. Our methodology involved reviewing ingredient lists, analyzing nutritional profiles, and cross-referencing with veterinary recommendations.
So what are the tradeoffs you need to know? First, protein sources. AvoDerm tends to use named meat meals like lamb meal, chicken meal, or salmon meal. That's fine, but if you're looking for fresh meat as the first ingredient, you won't find it here. Meal concentrates protein, so it's not bad, it's just a different philosophy. Second, the grain-inclusive formulas include brown rice and oatmeal, which are fine for most dogs. The grain-free line uses legumes and potatoes, which is standard for grain-free but something to watch if your dog is sensitive to those.
Another thing: variety. AvoDerm doesn't have a huge lineup. You've got maybe four or five core recipes. That's fine if one of them works for your dog. But if you like rotating proteins often, you'll run out of options. Compared to brands like Blue Buffalo or Taste of the Wild, AvoDerm offers less flavor variety.
Who should buy AvoDerm? I'd recommend it for a dog with dry skin or a coat that looks dull. The avocado oil and fatty acids can genuinely help there. Also for dogs that need a chicken-free diet, that Salmon and Vegetables recipe is a solid pick. The Lamb and Rice formula is a classic, gentle on stomachs. The Trout & Pea Sensitive Support is specifically for dogs with food sensitivities. If your dog has food sensitivities, our guide to the best dog food for allergies and sensitive stomach may also be useful.
Who should skip it? If you insist on fresh meat as the first ingredient, or if your dog needs an exotic protein like kangaroo or rabbit, AvoDerm won't work. Also, if you're on a tight budget, the price is mid-range, not bargain.
Let's talk about the feeding guidelines from the brand. They say for dogs 3 to 10 pounds, feed 1/3 to 1 cup per day. For 10 to 20 pounds, 1 to 1-1/2 cups. For 20 to 50 pounds, 1-1/2 to 3 cups. For 50 to 75 pounds, 3 to 4 cups. For 75 to 100 pounds, 4 to 5 cups. These are typical recommendations, but you should always adjust based on your dog's activity level and body condition. Start with the package guidelines and go from there.
One more thing. AvoDerm also makes cat food with avocado, so if you have a multi-pet household, you could feed both. The brand's website emphasizes that cats can eat avocado too, which is a nice touch.
Oh, and I almost forgot: they offer free shipping on orders over $49, but that excludes Alaska and Hawaii. So if you're in the contiguous US, it's a decent deal if you buy in bulk.
Is AvoDerm the best dog food on the market? No, I don't think so. There are brands with better ingredient sourcing and more transparency. But for a mid-tier brand with a unique selling point (avocado), it's a good option for specific needs. I'd put it above grocery store brands like Purina Dog Chow but below premium brands like Orijen. It's a solid B+.
You can find AvoDerm at Walmart, Amazon, and select pet stores like Northwest Seed & Pet. The Amazon store has the full lineup of grain-free options. Walmart carries the Lamb and Rice more commonly.
Last updated: June 2025. This article contains affiliate links; we may earn a commission on purchases. The information provided is for educational purposes and does not replace veterinary advice.
FAQ:
Is AvoDerm dog food safe for dogs with allergies?
It can be, especially the Chicken Free Salmon and Vegetables recipe and the Trout & Pea Sensitive Support formula, which avoid common allergens like chicken and grains. Always check the ingredient list for your dog's specific trigger.
Does AvoDerm use real avocado or just flavoring?
AvoDerm uses real avocado meat and avocado oil from carefully selected suppliers. The brand states they do not use the leaves, bark, skin, or pit of the fruit, so it's safe.
Is AvoDerm a grain-free dog food?
They offer both grain-free recipes (like the Salmon and Vegetables) and grain-inclusive recipes (like Lamb Meal and Brown Rice). Check the product label to be sure.
Where is AvoDerm dog food made?
According to the brand's website, their dry foods are made in their own plant in Irwindale, California, using ingredients sourced globally.
What formulas does AvoDerm have for puppies?
AvoDerm offers a Chicken Meal & Brown Rice Puppy Formula that provides balanced protein, fat, and nutrients for growth and development.
How much should I feed my dog on AvoDerm?
Guidelines from the brand suggest 1/3 to 1 cup for 3-10 lb dogs, up to 4-5 cups for 75-100 lb dogs. Adjust based on activity and body condition.
