A lot of dog owners want to feed their pets food with high protein content, and luckily, there are numerous recipes available in the market that are rich in protein. However, this can cause confusion and uncertainty for owners when deciding which one to select.
What Constitutes a “High-Protein” Dog Food?
Before we proceed, it is important for us to be aligned in our understanding. To commence, let us discuss the definition of “high-protein dog food.”
The guidelines published by AAFCO cover labels such as “low calorie” or “low fat,” but they do not address “high protein” foods.
The nutritional requirements state that adult dog foods should have a minimum of 18% protein on a dry matter basis. Similarly, puppies and reproductively active females need foods with a minimum of 22.5% protein on a dry matter basis.
From a technical standpoint, any food that possesses a protein quantity surpassing these specified values can be considered as having a high protein content. However, for practical reasons, it is advisable to consider dog foods with a protein content of at least 30% if you are seeking a dog food that can be categorized as “high-protein.”
Dog food manufacturers have two options for providing nutritional data on protein content: they can either indicate it based on the food being fed as is, or based on the food after removing the moisture (dry matter).
The protein content of dog food is usually indicated on the labels, presented on an “as fed” basis.
When considering protein content, it is important to consider the moisture in the food. The presence of water in the food can affect your perception of protein content. It can complicate the comparison of two different foods, as their water content can vary.
When making comparisons, it is important to consider a dry matter basis, which involves removing the water content.
To determine the dry matter content of a food:
- Start by subtracting the moisture content of the food from 100%.
- Then, divide the “as fed” protein percentage by the percentage attained in the first step.
- The resulting figure is the protein content on a dry matter basis.
Alternatively, you have the option to utilize this calculator that is primarily intended for cat foods but can still be used for any type of prepared food.
If you don’t enjoy math, there’s no need to worry!
The protein content on a dry matter basis for all of the foods mentioned below has already been determined!
The 9 Best High-Protein Dog Foods
If you are in search of dog food that is high in protein, begin by considering one of the options mentioned below:
1. Ollie Turkey Dish with Blueberries
The Dog Food that is High in Protein and Considered the Best Overall.
The Ollie Turkey Dish with Blueberries is a flavorful meal that prioritizes protein, featuring turkey and nutritious ingredients like blueberries, kale, and carrots. The dish is presented in a tasty and visually appealing meaty mash, making it a favorite among all dogs, even those who are a bit more selective in their food preferences. Additionally, the convenience of having it delivered straight to your doorstep eliminates the need to go to the store.
Features refer to the characteristics or attributes of something.
- Minimally processed to preserve flavor and nutrition
- Customized to your dog’s unique needs through a quick, easy quiz
- All recipes are vet-approved
- Made in the USA with human-grade ingredients
Ingredients List
In a sequential manner, rephrase the following text without adding or removing any information: Turkey liver, carrots, lentils, kale, and turkey
The ingredients include oats, blueberries, pumpkin, Tricalcium phosphate, Chia seeds, Sunflower oil, Salt, Salmon oil, Zinc gluconate, Ferrous sulfate, Copper amino acid chelate, Vitamin E supplement, Manganese amino acid chelate, Choline bitartrate, Thiamine mononitrate, Riboflavin, Vitamin D3, Pyridoxine hydrochloride, and Potassium iodide.
The dry matter protein content amounts to 39.29%.
Additionally, the options include a Beef Dish With Sweet Potatoes, a Chicken Dish with Carrots, and a Lamb Dish with Cranberries.
Pros
- Excellent protein content
- Most dogs are head over paws for the flavor of this fresh food option
- Human-grade ingredients are the best of the best
Cons
- Unfortunately, quality comes at a price, and this food is expensive
- Refrigeration is required
2. NomNom Turkey Fare
The dog food that achieved the second highest ranking for overall best high-protein option was the Runner Up.
By completing the quick and easy online quiz, selecting your desired plan, and having food delivered to your door in no time, you can up your pup’s protein game with NomNom Turkey Fare. This fresh food is carefully measured to meet your dog’s dietary needs, whether he’s a seasoned squirrel chaser or a leisurely lapdog.
The features include:
- Can be fed on its own or served with your dog’s kibble
- All recipes are designed by board-certified veterinary nutritionists
- Plans change with your dog, letting you adjust as he grows or switches preferences
- Made in the USA using gentle cooking methods
Ingredients List
Ingredients such as ground turkey, brown rice, eggs, carrots, and spinach are included in the list.
The ingredients in the product include dicalcium phosphate, calcium carbonate, citric acid, potassium chloride, salt, water sufficient for processing, fish oil, choline bitartrate, natural flavor, vinegar, iron amino acid chelate, taurine, zinc gluconate, vitamin E supplement, copper gluconate, niacin, manganese gluconate, vitamin A supplement, thiamine mononitrate, pyridoxine hydrochloride, riboflavin, cholecalciferol, potassium iodide, folic acid, and vitamin B12 supplement.
The dry matter protein content is 35.71%.
The text can be rephrased as follows: Additionally, there are options for Pork Potluck, Chicken Cuisine, and Beef Mash.
Pros
- Great protein content (and formulated by a veterinary nutritionist!)
- Most pups give it a paw’s up for taste
- Quality is next-level awesome
Cons
- Pricing is up there compared to standard kibble
- Food requires refrigeration
3. Blue Buffalo Wilderness Salmon plus Wholesome Grains
The most superior dry dog food with a high protein content.
Blue Buffalo Wilderness Salmon plus Wholesome Grains allows you to preserve the beneficial properties of high protein in kibble format. It includes real meat as its primary ingredient, as well as produce for essential fiber and nutrients. Additionally, this dry food contains Blue’s LifeSource Bits, which are rich in antioxidants to support immune function.
The characteristics are:
- Probiotic blend aids in gut health
- Doesn’t contain corn, soy, or wheat
- Grain-free and grain-inclusive recipes are available
- Made in the USA with globally sourced ingredients
Ingredients List
Some of the ingredients used in the recipe include salmon with the bones removed, fish meal, dried chicken, oatmeal, and barley.
The ingredients in this product include chicken meal, potatoes, dried tomato pomace, dried egg product, chicken fat, natural flavor, sweet potatoes, peas, pea protein, potato starch, flaxseed, direct dehydrated alfalfa pellets, salt, L-Threonine, DL-Methionine, potassium chloride, calcium carbonate, pea fiber, alfalfa nutrient concentrate, dried chicory root, preserved with mixed tocopherols, choline chloride, carrots, zinc amino acid chelate, zinc sulfate, vegetable juice for color, ferrous sulfate, vitamin E supplement, iron amino acid chelate, blueberries, cranberries, barley grass, parsley, turmeric, dried kelp, yucca schidigera extract, niacin, calcium pantothenate, copper sulfate, biotin, L-Ascorbyl-2-Polyphosphate, L-Lysine, vitamin A supplement, copper amino acid chelate, manganese sulfate, manganese amino acid chelate, taurine, thiamine mononitrate, riboflavin, vitamin D3 supplement, vitamin B12 supplement, pyridoxine hydrochloride, calcium iodate, dried yeast, dried Enterococcus faecium fermentation product, dried Lactobacillus acidophilus fermentation product, dried Aspergillus niger fermentation extract, dried Trichoderma longibrachiatum fermentation extract, dried Bacillus subtilis fermentation extract, folic acid, sodium selenite, and oil of rosemary.
The dry matter protein content is 34%.
The available options are Grain-Free Salmon, Chicken Plus Wholesome Grains, Grain-Free Chicken, and Grain-Free Duck.
Pros
- 34% protein content is rock solid
- Most dogs are happy with the flavor
- Kibble size works well with dogs large and small
Cons
- Mixed proteins can be a problem for dogs with sensitivities
- Some dogs refuse to eat Blue’s LifeSource Bits
4. Taste of the Wild Grain-Free High Prairie
Please rephrase the text below while maintaining the same meaning and without adding or removing any information: “Top-quality dry dog food with high protein content and no grains.”
Feed your dog Taste of the Wild Grain-Free High Prairie, which contains a high-protein recipe consisting of a tasty combination of roasted bison and venison. Omega fatty acids help improve your dog’s skin and coat, and probiotics promote a healthy gut.
The features are as follows:
- Real meat is the top ingredient
- Produce like raspberries, blueberries, and peas provide natural fiber and antioxidants
- Also available in a grain-inclusive form
- Made in the USA with globally sourced ingredients
Ingredients List
The ingredients included in the list are Water buffalo, Lamb meal, Chicken meal, Sweet potatoes, and Peas …
The ingredients in the dog food are as follows: Potatoes, Chicken fat, Egg product, Roasted bison, Roasted venison, Beef, Natural flavor, Tomato pomace, Potato protein, Pea protein, Ocean fish meal, Salt, Choline chloride, Taurine, Dried chicory root, Tomatoes, Blueberries, Raspberries, Yucca schidigera extract, Dried Lactobacillus plantarum fermentation product, Dried Bacillus subtilis fermentation product, Dried Lactobacillus acidophilus fermentation product, Dried Enterococcus faecium fermentation product, Dried Bifidobacterium animalis fermentation product, Vitamin E supplement, Iron proteinate, Zinc proteinate, Copper proteinate, Ferrous sulfate, Zinc sulfate, Manganese sulfate, Copper sulfate, Potassium iodide, Thiamine mononitrate, Manganese proteinate, Ascorbic acid, Vitamin A supplement, Biotin, Niacin, Calcium pantothenate, Sodium selenite, Pyridoxine hydrochloride, Vitamin B12 supplement, Riboflavin, Vitamin D3 supplement, Folic acid.
The protein content in dry matter is 32%.
There are also 13 grain-free and grain-inclusive recipes available, including Pacific Stream, Pine Forest, and Sierra Mountain.
Pros
- Great mix of protein options to choose from
- Taste gets a tail wag from most dogs
- Pricing is reasonable for such a quality kibble
Cons
- Some pups struggled with belly issues while transitioning to TOTW
- Mixed protein recipes won’t work for dogs with food sensitivities
5. Diamond Naturals Extreme Athlete
The Most Affordable Dog Food with High Protein
Diamond Naturals Extreme Athlete offers a fantastic price tag as a bonus. This high-protein kibble includes probiotics and joint-boosting glucosamine and chondroitin. It also contains real produce, which provides natural fiber and nutrients.
Characteristics: The following are the traits or qualities:
- Cage-free chicken is the first ingredient
- Omega fatty acids support canine skin and coat health
- Antioxidants provide an immunity boost
- Made in the USA with globally sourced ingredients
Ingredients List
Some of the ingredients included in the chicken-based meal are chicken, ground white rice, chicken fat, cracked pearled barley, and so on.
The ingredients in this product include egg product, ground miscanthus grass, dried beet pulp, natural flavor, flaxseed, potassium chloride, salt, choline chloride, dried chicory root, glucosamine hydrochloride, L-Carnitine, kale, chia seed, pumpkin, blueberries, oranges, quinoa, dried kelp, coconut, spinach, carrots, papaya, yucca schidigera extract, dried Lactobacillus plantarum fermentation product, dried Bacillus subtilis fermentation product, dried Lactobacillus acidophilus fermentation product, dried Enterococcus faecium fermentation product, dried Bifidobacterium animalis fermentation product, vitamin E supplement, beta carotene, chondroitin sulfate, iron proteinate, zinc proteinate, copper proteinate, ferrous sulfate, zinc sulfate, manganese sulfate, copper sulfate, potassium iodide, thiamine mononitrate, manganese proteinate, ascorbic acid, vitamin A supplement, biotin, niacin, calcium pantothenate, sodium selenite, pyridoxine hydrochloride, vitamin B12 supplement, riboflavin, vitamin D3 supplement, and folic acid.
The content of protein in dry matter is 32%.
The single Chicken recipe is the only option available for Extreme Athlete.
Pros
- Affordably priced, especially for quality, high-protein kibble
- Inclusion of probiotics is always a win
- Large bag size great for large breeds or multi-dog families
Cons
- Some dogs need enticing to give it a try
- More protein options would be nice, as not every dog tolerates chicken
6. Ketona Chicken Recipe Dry Dog Food
Dog food with the highest protein content.
The Ketona Chicken Recipe Dry Dog Food has a high protein content, almost twice as much as most kibbles. It contains 90% less carbohydrates compared to regular dry dog food and prioritizes real protein, with American-raised chicken as the primary ingredient.
Characteristics: Please rephrase the text above while maintaining the same meaning. Do not add new information and do not remove information.
- Made with non-GMO chicken sourced from farms using sustainable practices
- Doesn’t include corn, soy, wheat, or grains
- Meets AAFCO standards for all life stages except the growth of large-breed puppies
- Made in the USA
Ingredients List
The ingredients include chicken, pea protein, ground green peas, oat hulls, chicken fat, and so on.
The sentence needs to be rephrased step by step without adding or removing any information. Here is one possible rephrasing: 1. Flaxseed meal, Phosphoric acid, Gelatin, Chicken liver digest, Calcium carbonate, Salt, Pea fiber, Potassium chloride, Choline chloride, Vitamine E supplement, Niacin supplement, Thiamine mononitrate, Calcium pantothenate, Vitamin A supplement, Sunflower oil, Vegetable oil, Citric acid, Ascorbic acid, Pyridoxine hydrochloride, Riboflavin supplement, Vitamin D3 supplement, Biotin, Vitamin B12 supplement, Folic acid supplement, Zinc proteinate, Iron proteinate, Copper proteinate, Manganese proteinate, Iodine proteinate, Sodium selenite, Lecithin, Mixed tocopherols, Rosemary extract. 2. Flaxseed meal, Phosphoric acid, Gelatin, Chicken liver digest, Calcium carbonate, Salt, Pea fiber, Potassium chloride, Choline chloride, Vitamin E supplement, Niacin supplement, Thiamine mononitrate, Calcium pantothenate, Vitamin A supplement, Sunflower oil, Vegetable oil, Citric acid, Ascorbic acid, Pyridoxine hydrochloride, Riboflavin supplement, Vitamin D3 supplement, Biotin, Vitamin B12 supplement, Folic acid supplement, Zinc proteinate, Iron proteinate, Copper proteinate, Manganese proteinate, Iodine proteinate, Sodium selenite, Lecithin, Mixed tocopherols, Rosemary extract.
Our calculation of the dry matter protein content is even higher than the 46% advertised by the brand.
The Salmon Recipe is also available as an option.
Pros
- More than double the protein of some standard kibbles
- Low-carb recipe may be a good fit for diabetic doggos
- Some pet parents noted improvements in canine coats and skin
Cons
- Pricing is steep
- Super-high protein levels aren’t for every dog
7. ZIWI Peak Air-Dried Dog Food
The top choice for dog food with a high protein content that has been dried using the best method.
ZIWI Peak Air-Dried Dog Food provides a substantial portion of real meat and organs, delivering a range of essential nutrients including green mussels and kelp. It can be given as a topper or served as a full meal for your pup.
Characteristics:
- Limited ingredient list
- Contains meat sourced from animals not treated by hormones or growth promotants
- Entirely grain-free recipe
- Made in New Zealand
Ingredients List
Lamb is followed by lamb heart, lamb tripe, lamb liver, and lamb kidney…
The ingredients in this product include lamb lung, New Zealand green mussel, lamb bone, lecithin, chicory inulin, dried kelp, dipotassium phosphate, magnesium sulfate, zinc amino acid complex, copper amino acid complex, iron amino acid complex, manganese amino acid complex, selenium yeast, salt, parsley, citric acid, mixed tocopherols, vitamin E supplement, thiamine mononitrate, vitamin D3 supplement, and folic acid.
The dry matter protein content of the lamb recipe is 35%.
The options consist of Lamb, Beef, Chicken, Mackerel & Lamb, Tripe & Lamb, and Venison.
Pros
- Meat and organ-rich recipe focuses on animal-derived protein first and foremost
- Single-protein recipes ideal for dogs with sensitivities
- Taste gets a bark of approval from most dogs
Cons
- Grain-free food isn’t for every dog
- No bones about it: It’s expensive
8. Purina Beyond Wild Prey-Inspired Grain-Free High Protein
The top-rated wet dog food option with high protein content is the Best High-Protein Wet Dog Food.
The pate of Purina Beyond Wild Prey-Inspired Grain-Free High Protein is full of nutrient-dense organ meat to promote lean muscle development. This mixture can be served alone or mixed with your dog’s regular food as a high-protein treat.
Characteristics: The characteristics are as follows:
- Real meat is always the first ingredient
- Contains a natural source of glucosamine for joint support
- Doesn’t contain corn, soy, wheat, or poultry by-product meal
- Made in the USA
Ingredients List
Starting with Turkey, the sequence continues as Turkey broth, Chicken, Liver, and Duck…
The ingredients in the product include chicken liver, potassium chloride, zinc sulfate, ferrous sulfate, copper sulfate, manganese sulfate, potassium iodide, sodium selenite, chicken heart, guar gum, salt, carrageenan, choline chloride, vitamin E supplement, niacin, thiamine mononitrate, calcium pantothenate, pyridoxine hydrochloride, vitamin B-12 supplement, riboflavin supplement, vitamin A supplement, folic acid, vitamin D-3 supplement, and biotin.
The dry matter protein content of Turkey, Liver & Duck Pate is 40.91%.
There are two options available in Turkey, which are Liver & Duck and Beef, Liver & Lamb.
Pros
- Real meat and organ make for a top-notch protein content
- Taste is a win with most dogs
- Pricing is pretty reasonable, especially when compared to diets with less protein
Cons
- Pate texture doesn’t always mix well into kibble or please picky palates
- Mixed proteins aren’t a good fit for every dog
FEATURE: Purina Dog Chow High Protein Pate Wet Dog Food, High Protein With Real Beef
Since 1926, feed your dog chow for both canned and dry needs, with no artificial flavor or preservatives and containing 40 g of protein per can.
To support your dog’s muscles, serve them Purina Dog Chow High Protein With Real Beef Classic Ground wet dog food, which is made with real beef and provides 40 grams of protein per can. Remember, every ingredient in this hearty entree has a purpose.
By following this Dog Chow recipe, you can be assured that your adult dog will receive 100 percent complete and balanced nutrition, which contributes to his overall health. This particular Classic Ground Dog Chow formula is gentle and does not include any artificial flavors or preservatives.
By manufacturing this wet dog food in the USA and closely monitoring every step of the process, we guarantee that it meets your high standards. Pick Purina Dog Chow High Protein With Real Beef Classic Ground wet dog food, which not only satisfies your dog’s nutritional needs but also delivers the delicious meaty taste he enjoys. Offer your dog a meal that supplies the premium nutrition he requires to thrive by choosing Purina Dog Chow High Protein With Real Beef Classic Ground wet dog food.
Every serving of our pet food provides your furry friend with all the essential nutrients needed to maintain their strength and overall health. Our wholesome formula, which includes real beef, offers a satisfying texture and robust taste with 40 grams of protein per can. Rest assured that our Purina Dog Chow recipe contains no artificial flavors or preservatives. You can enhance your dog’s mealtime routine by alternating this option with our Purina Dog Chow High Protein With Real Chicken Classic Ground recipe for a delightful poultry flavor your dog will love. Remember, at Purina, we are more than just a pet food company.
We understand the significance of trusting the food you give to your pet, as our employees are also pet enthusiasts. Hence, all the top-notch ingredients we use can be traced back to our trusted sources. Our team of experts, including pet nutritionists and veterinarians, meticulously develop each recipe to fulfill your dog’s nutritional needs.
By offering wet foods, you can provide your dog with protein-rich meals that promote muscle growth and maintenance while ensuring a delicious taste. Our Dog Chow recipe is proudly manufactured in the USA, and we conduct over 100,000 quality and safety checks daily in our American facilities for your reassurance. When you serve this recipe, you can trust in the expertise and innovation of Purina, a leading authority in pet nutrition for over 90 years.
To consistently provide your dog with a nutritious and high-quality meal, rely on Purina Dog Chow High Protein With Real Beef Classic Ground wet dog food. This dog food offers complete and balanced nutrition, including high levels of protein to promote strong muscles and support your dog’s body requirements.
