In order to find the best dog food for your beloved pet, it is crucial to consider several key factors. These include the age, size, breed, potential allergies, ingredient quality, and personal tastes of your dog. Additionally, dog owners must decide on the type of meat, such as beef, pork, or salmon, and whether to provide raw, wet canned, or dry kibble food, based on their dog’s preferences.
Given the multitude of options in the market, it can be challenging for pet owners to navigate and understand all the choices. Thus, we have compiled our top recommendations for the finest dog food, and it might be prudent to consult your veterinarian to determine if it is suitable for your specific furry friend.
How to choose the best dog food
Dr. Matthew McCarthy, the veterinarian and founder of Juniper Valley Animal Hospital in Middle Village Queens, New York, provides guidance on how pet owners can make a smart choice when it comes to selecting the best dog food for their pets. The World Small Animal Veterinary Association (WSAVA), a global organization comprising over 200,000 veterinarians, has established criteria for veterinarians and pet owners to employ in the selection and assessment of pet food. These guidelines aim to enhance the level of care for companion animals globally and assist in navigating the plethora of nutritional claims found online. WSAVA’s minimum criteria consist of:
- Selecting a food that is made by a responsible company.
- Selecting a food that is quality control tested.
- Evaluating the label for Association of American Feed Control Officials (AAFCO) statements that are appropriate. AAFCO is an independent organization that has developed ingredient definitions and label standards for well over 100 years.
- Evaluating if there are any ‘red flags’ such as unsubstantiated health claims.
Dr. McCarthy advises that the best thing to do is to work together with your veterinary team to determine the most suitable food for your pet. They have a better understanding of this matter and can offer the best advice. If you find food that meets these requirements, it may be worth considering for your pet.
Dr. McCarthy noted that the Association of American Food Control Officials, known as AAFCO, provides guidance on choosing the most suitable food for your dog. Along with carefully reading the label, it is essential to verify that the food aligns with the species, life stage, and condition of your pet.
Our top picks for best dog food
We conducted a thorough search of the marketplace to locate the finest dog food selections that include the essential details you require, such as the primary three ingredients present in every formulation. This will help you make a knowledgeable choice.
Best raw dry dog food: Instinct Raw Boost Dry Dog Food
Instinct Raw Boost offers the convenience of dry food for dog owners who follow a raw diet. This shelf-stable formula contains kibble with high protein content, combined with freeze-dried raw chicken, beef, or salmon chunks. Multiple varieties are available, catering to different nutritional needs of dogs, such as addressing skin and coat problems or specific formulations for puppies.
Best dog food for allergies: Merrick Grain-Free Dry Dog Food
Pet owners whose dogs have allergies can take advantage of the wide selection available in the Merrick Grain-Free range. Each recipe in this line is carefully formulated to exclude common allergy-inducing ingredients such as soy, gluten, and corn. By eliminating these ingredients, it becomes easier to find a variety of dog food that your canine companion will enjoy. With its emphasis on a reduced number of ingredients, a variety of recipes, and high-quality protein sources such as lamb, duck, and beef, Merrick Grain-Free is a dependable option for dogs with allergies.
Best wet dog food: Taste of the Wild Canned Dog Food
At Taste of the Wild, the main emphasis is on protein, as demonstrated by their range of canned wet dog foods containing high-quality meat and other protein sources. One such variety is the Canyon Canine Formula, which incorporates beef, lamb, wild boar, egg, beef liver, and peas. Complementing these ingredients are easily digestible fruits and vegetables including blueberries, sweet potatoes, tomatoes, and raspberries. While a 12-pack of cans might be slightly costly, this nutritious wet dog food is guaranteed to keep dogs eagerly anticipating each meal.
Best dog food for sensitive stomachs: ACANA Singles Limited Ingredient Diet
While some dogs naturally have a strong digestive system, others require assistance in finding a dog food that not only tastes good but also agrees with their sensitive stomachs. ACANA provides four premium dog food options that cater to dogs with a finicky appetite. These recipes are grain-free and consist of easily digestible single-source meats and fruits and vegetables packed with nutrients. This ensures that both selective eaters and dogs with food sensitivities can enjoy their preferred sources of protein. Additionally, pet owners can have peace of mind knowing that their dog’s stomach will handle this nutritious grain-free kibble with ease.
Best dog food for puppies: Nulo Freestyle Puppy Grain-Free Puppy
To establish a healthy foundation for your puppy’s health, it is essential to carefully examine labels while shopping. Nulo Freestyle Puppy simplifies the process of understanding the ingredients it contains. It is available in turkey and salmon varieties, with the first three ingredients sourced from protein-rich sources that promote stronger muscles, teeth, and bones. Nulo’s two dry puppy foods are enriched with nutrient-packed fruits and vegetables, such as carrots, blueberries, and apples. Additionally, both formulas are free of chicken and grains, reducing the risk of common food allergies.
Best senior dog food: Blue Buffalo Life Protection Formula Senior
As older dogs age, it is crucial for them to receive specialized nutrition that will help them stay alert, remain mobile, and maintain good health. However, the process of making dry dog food shelf stable and free from bacteria through high heat also results in the loss of a considerable amount of nutrients, which is unfortunate. Nevertheless, Blue Buffalo has devised a solution by forming their signature “LifeSource Bits” under significantly lower heat, thus preventing the depletion of nutrients. Furthermore, the inclusion of ingredients such as pumpkin, spinach, and cranberries provides additional antioxidants, vitamins, and minerals, boosting the nutritional value of each bite and introducing variety to the diet.
Best dog food for weight loss: Nutro Natural Choice Healthy Weight
When your dog becomes overweight, finding the right diet to assist them in losing weight and keeping a healthy body can be challenging. However, Nutro Natural Choice Healthy Weight offers two recipes specifically made for overweight dogs. These recipes consist of lean chicken and lamb options, which provide easily digestible protein, and brown rice, which includes the necessary natural fiber for proper digestion.
Because it contains quality protein sources and does not include filler grains such as corn, soy, and gluten, this high-end healthy dog food is worth feeding dogs even after they have achieved their ideal weight.
Best large breed dog food: Taste of the Wild PREY
Extra-large dog breeds have distinct nutritional requirements compared to smaller dogs. Taste of the Wild PREY simplifies the process of ensuring that they receive sufficient protein. This particular dry dog food contains a higher amount of single-source protein per piece compared to the majority of other options available in the market. Additionally, it has a wholesome limited-ingredient recipe. The product presents three premium protein sources, including Angus beef, turkey, and trout, in combination with lentils, tomato pomace, and chicken fat as its three additional key ingredients. This uncomplicated dry dog food is also a favorable choice for dogs with food allergies.
BONUS: 10 OF THE BEST NATURAL AND ORGANIC DOG FOODS
Best organic food for dogs overall – Tender & True Organic Chicken Dry Dog Food
This dog food not only steals the best-in-show biscuit, but it also takes the title for the best natural and organic dog food. In order to be deemed organic by the US Department of Agriculture, 95% of its ingredients must be organic, and this Tender & True dog food lives up to that standard. It is made from a combination of organic ingredients, with cage-free chicken as the primary ingredient, as well as antioxidants, vitamins, and minerals. This dog food does not contain any artificial colors or flavorings, and it is also free from corn, wheat, and soy, making it easier to digest for dogs with sensitive stomachs.
Best all-natural dog food – Spot & Tango
Choosing wet food is generally the most natural option because it is processed at lower temperatures and has fewer preservatives. Spot & Tango is included in our top natural dog food list as they produce small batches of fresh food using high-quality ingredients. Pet owners have the choice between Turkey & Red Quinoa, Beef & Millet, and Lamb & Brown Rice, and can be assured that each recipe is free from artificial preservatives, fillers, and additives. Additionally, they offer “UnKibble” recipes that align with the same principles as the wet food. They emphasize that their UnKibble is not extruded and does not contain meat meals or mystery meats, which is a common occurrence in most dry kibble products available.
Best organic wet dog food – Castor & Pollux Organix Grain-Free Organic Chicken & Vegetable Recipe
Castor & Pollux, leaders in organic pet foods, craft their dog food in small batches in a certified organic kitchen. This wet dog food is free from corn, wheat, soy, preservatives, and artificial colors, and it also contains added probiotics to support a healthy digestive system.
Best organic dry dog food – Castor & Pollux Organix Dry Dog Food Organic Chicken Recipe
The best organic dog food includes dry options for your pup, which should be considered for this list. This recipe is filled with nutrient-rich superfoods like organic flaxseed, blueberries, and sweet potato. In addition to organic, free-range chicken, the ingredients are responsibly grown without synthetic fertilizers or chemical pesticides.
Best natural wet dog food – Purina Beyond Natural Wet Dog Food
It is a well-known fact that the path to a dog’s affection is by satisfying its hunger. This is why chicken is the primary element in this delicious blend. However, it is crucial to note that the chicken used in this product is not just any ordinary chicken, but rather chicken that has been raised without the use of steroids or hormones. These substances are not appealing for your canine companion. In addition, this recipe is abundant in fiber and natural probiotics. Furthermore, it is important to highlight that this formulation is entirely devoid of corn, wheat, soy, poultry-by products, and any other artificial colors, flavors, or preservatives. It sounds delectable!
Best natural dry dog food – Orijen Dog Original Recipe
With 85% premium animal ingredients, this dog food includes fresh, raw animal-based proteins as its first five ingredients. Orijen follows a Wholeprey diet, providing pups with high-quality animal proteins that closely mimic the ones consumed by their wild ancestors. It sounds impressive to us!
Best natural dog food for senior dogs – Diamond Naturals Dry Senior Dog Food
To support the immune system, a range of fruits and vegetables enriched with vitamins and antioxidant superfoods like blueberries and spinach are included. Furthermore, the recipe contains glucosamine and chondroitin to aid in supporting the joints and cartilage of senior dogs. Complete nutrition for senior dogs is provided through the inclusion of cage-free chicken and various protein sources that help fortify bones and muscles. Additionally, omega fatty acids like flaxseed and chia seed maintain the health of the skin and coat of your four-legged companion.
Best organic dog food for puppies – Castor & Pollux Organix Puppy Recipe
Sigh, once again we have a Castor & Pollux product… This dog food is made from organic, free-range chicken, which serves as the foundation and supplies all the essential nutrients needed for puppies to develop into robust and thriving adult dogs.
Best dehydrated natural dog food – The Honest Kitchen Human Grade Dehydrated Grain Free Dog Food
To prepare this dehydrated dog food, all you need to do is add a small amount of water and wait for three minutes. By the end of this time, Fido will surely become excited for the food. Made with ingredients that are minimally processed and suitable for human consumption, although it is not recommended for pet owners to try it themselves, this dog food consists of a delightful combination of actual ingredients such as free-range chicken, green beans, organic flaxseed, and organic kelp.
Best hypoallergenic dog food – Canidae Pure Limited Ingredient Premium Adult Dry Dog Food
If your dog often experiences stomach issues, it is crucial to provide them with hypoallergenic dog food that reduces the chances of allergies and intolerances. This dog food is made with less than ten easily identifiable ingredients and does not contain grains. It is a nourishing combination of real salmon, sweet potato, antioxidants, and probiotics, making it ideal for sensitive dogs.
Choosing the best organic dog food for your pooch
When examining a dog food label, the initial aspect to search for is a declaration from the AAFCO indicating that it complies with industry norms. Opt for a natural dog food that supplies the essential nutrients for your canine companion based on their life stage. Puppy food is specifically formulated to promote muscle and bone development, while senior dog food contains nutrients that aid in supporting joint health and mobility. Decide whether you prefer to feed your dog dry kibble, wet food, or dehydrated food and make your choice based on what makes your furry friend the most excited.
It is advisable to seek the advice of a veterinary nutritionist before deciding to switch your dog’s food. Consulting with them will help determine if the chosen dog food provides all the necessary nutrients for your Fido’s wellbeing. It is also common for them to suggest gradually introducing the new food over a span of 9 days.
