Best Budget-Friendly Dog Foods 2023

Are you in search of an affordable yet high-quality dog food option?

Not always the cheapest, the best budget-friendly brands are not always the cheapest.

It is still possible to find numerous 4 and 5-star dog foods available at prices that are up to 40% lower than the cost of premium recipes.

These are affordable product lines from reputable brands that are specifically designed to cater to the needs of pet owners who want the best for their pets.

However, they also wish to steer clear of food products that contain inexpensive fillers and plant-based protein enhancers.

Are Cheap Dog Foods Safe?

Certainly. It is possible for low-priced dog foods to be safe.

However, please rephrase the text below step by step while keeping the same meaning. Do not include any additional information or omit any information.

If a company conducts regular safety testing and keeps the finished food at its facility until test results are confirmed, then as long as the food is low-priced, it is acceptable.

Once you have thought about each step, you can then conclude that it is safe.

However, please make sure to think in a step-by-step manner when rephrasing the following text, while also ensuring the meaning remains unchanged.

Avoid products that have been rated 2 stars or lower by The Dog Food Advisor.

BHA or other cancer-causing chemical preservatives are found in a lot of these inexpensive and poorly-rated recipes.

Instead of adding or removing information, rephrase the given text below while preserving the same meaning, by thinking step by step: Instead of introducing new information or omitting any, please rephrase the provided text below by carefully considering each step to maintain its original meaning.

It is recommended to prefer brands that have a rating of 4 stars or higher, such as the budget-friendly dog foods mentioned here. These recipes have undergone scrutiny by The Dog Food Advisor to ensure the absence of any potentially harmful chemical additives that are often present in cheaper alternatives.

Look for Quality at an Affordable Price

Recipes that contain inexpensive fillers and plant-based protein enhancers provide minimal nutritional benefits to your dog.

Therefore, it is necessary to approach the situation using a systematic thought process.

Analyze the text systematically, rewording it while retaining the original meaning without introducing additional information or omitting any information. Seek out worth or importance.

Brands that are considered top-rated are available for purchase at affordable prices.

In order to assist you in finding these valuable opportunities to save money…

By going through its extensive database of more than 5700 recipes, The Dog Food Advisor found the following budget-friendly brands that have received ratings of 4 and 5 stars.

Each of them provides excellent quality at a reasonable cost.

Make sure to bookmark this page so you can come back in the future for savings, as our research team continuously discovers new affordable brands.

Best Affordable Dog Foods September 2023

Diamond Naturals Dry Dog Food

First 5 ingredients: Lamb meal, ground white rice, cracked pearled barley, sorghum, egg product
Type: Grain-inclusive (ground white rice, cracked pearled barley, sorghum, rice bran, millet)
Price: $
Best for: Adults dogs
Other recipes: Adult, senior, puppy, small breed, large breed

Diamond Naturals Adult gets most of its meat protein from lamb meal. When we analyze the label on a dry matter basis, we find that the recipe has 26% protein, 16% fat, and 51% estimated carbs, resulting in a fat-to-protein ratio of around 61%. It is a high-quality brand that comes at a reasonable price, and we strongly recommend it.

Taste of the Wild Dry Dog Food

First 5 ingredients: Salmon, ocean fish meal, sweet potatoes, potatoes, peas
Type: Grain-free
Price: $$
Best For: Adult dogs
Other recipes: Small breed, puppy, adult

The majority of the meat protein in Taste of the Wild Pacific Stream comes from salmon and ocean fish meal. Our examination of the dry matter label shows that the formula contains 28% protein, 17% fat, and 48% estimated carbohydrates, resulting in a fat-to-protein ratio of approximately 60%.

Highly recommended, this product line offers a variety of recipes and is known for its quality and affordability.

American Journey Canned Dog Food

First 5 ingredients: Chicken, chicken broth, turkey, chicken liver, potatoes
Type: Grain-free
Price: $$
Best For: Adults + small or medium breed puppies
Other recipes: Adult, limited ingredient diet, stews

The majority of the animal protein in the This American Journey formula comes from chicken. When we evaluate the dry matter label, we find that the recipe consists of 41% protein, 27% fat, and 24% estimated carbs, resulting in a fat-to-protein ratio of approximately 67%.

This wet option is a great choice at an affordable price. It does not include any low-quality fillers. It can be used as a “topper” to boost the taste of any dry dog food. It is highly recommended.

Dr. Tim’s Dry Dog Food

First 5 ingredients: Chicken meal, brown rice, chicken fat, whole oat groats, dried beet pulp
Type: Grain-inclusive (brown rice, whole oat groats, rice bran)
Price: $$
Best For: Adults + small or medium breed puppies
Other recipes: Weight management, all life stages, athletic

Dr. Tim’s Pursuit obtains a significant portion of its animal protein from chicken meal. According to our dry matter label analysis, the recipe consists of approximately 33% protein, 22% fat, and 36% estimated carbohydrates. As a result, we calculated a fat-to-protein ratio of around 67%. This dog food is reasonably priced and of high quality. It does not contain any wheat shorts or other low-cost grain by-products. We highly recommend it with great enthusiasm.

Victor Purpose Dry Dog Food

First 5 ingredients: Beef meal, peas, sweet potato, chicken fat, menhaden fish meal
Type: Grain-free
Price: $
Best For: Adult dogs
Other recipes: Senior, healthy weight, puppy

The majority of the animal protein in Victor Hero Canine comes from beef meal, according to our evaluation of the dry matter label. The analysis shows that the recipe has 36% protein, 18% fat, and 38% estimated carbs, resulting in a fat-to-protein ratio of around 48%. This dog food is also enriched with chondroitin and glucosamine, making it a suitable choice for promoting joint health in adult dogs. Additionally, it does not contain inexpensive plant-based cereal grain fillers. We highly recommend it.

Eagle Pack Dry Dog Food

First 5 ingredients: Chicken meal, pork meal, ground brown rice, dehulled barley, oatmeal
Type: Grain-inclusive (ground brown rice, dehulled barley, oatmeal, rice)
Price: $
Best For: Adults + small or medium breed puppies
Other recipes: Reduced fat, small breed, large/giant breed, puppy

Eagle Pack Original derives its primary source of meat protein from chicken and pork meals. According to our dry matter label report, the formula consists of 29% protein, 16% fat, and 48% estimated carbohydrates, resulting in a fat-to-protein ratio of approximately 54%. This brand does not contain any controversial chemical preservatives or inexpensive plant-based fillers. We highly endorse it.

Horizon Complete Dry Dog Food

First 5 ingredients: Chicken meal, whole grain barley, whole grain rye, chicken, whole grain oats
Type: Grain-inclusive (whole grain barley, whole grain rye, whole grain oats)
Price: $$
Best For: All adults + puppies
Other recipes: Large breed, senior, puppy, weight management

This Horizon Complete product obtains the majority of its animal protein from chicken meal. According to our analysis of the dry matter label, the recipe comprises 29% protein, 16% fat, and an estimated 48% carbohydrates, resulting in a fat-to-protein ratio of approximately 54%. It is an affordable option suitable for all life stages, including both adults and puppies. Additionally, it does not contain genetically modified grains. We highly recommend it.

Eukanuba Dry Dog Food

First 5 ingredients: Chicken, chicken by-product meal, corn, wheat, chicken fat
Type: Grain-inclusive (wheat, ground grain sorghum)
Price: $$
Best For: Adult dogs
Other recipes: Puppy, large breed, small breed, medium breed, senior

Eukanuba Small Bites is primarily made from chicken for its animal protein content. An analysis of the dry matter label shows that the recipe contains approximately 28% protein, 18% fat, and an estimated 46% carbohydrates. This results in a fat-to-protein ratio of approximately 64%. It is a cost-effective dog food with many different recipe options, and it comes highly recommended.

Whole Earth Farms Wet Dog Food

First 5 ingredients: Beef, beef broth, beef liver, lamb, pork liver
Type: Grain-free
Price: $$$
Best For: All adults + puppies
Other recipes: Small breed, healthy weight, puppy

Whole Earth Farms Red Meat primarily gets its animal protein from beef. According to our dry matter label report, the recipe consists of 36% protein, 23% fat, and 33% estimated carbs, resulting in a fat-to-protein ratio of approximately 63%. This wet food option, produced by Merrick, a reputable company renowned for its superior recipes, is a cost-effective choice. We highly recommend it.

American Journey Grain-Free

First 5 ingredients: Deboned salmon, chicken meal, turkey meal, peas, sweet potatoes
Type: Grain-free
Price: $$
Best For: Adults + small or medium breed puppies
Other recipes: Chicken, Beef, Lamb and 10 More

The main sources of animal protein in American Journey Grain-Free are fresh salmon, chicken, and turkey meals. When analyzing the dry matter label, it is found that the recipe contains approximately 36% protein, 16% fat, and 41% estimated carbs. This leads to a fat-to-protein ratio of around 44%.

The presence of salmon oil is observed, and this oil is naturally abundant in the valuable EPA and DHA omega-3 fatty acids. When comparing to oils derived from plants, these two exceptional fats offer the greatest level at which they can be utilized by dogs.

Confidently recommended at an affordable price.

Salmon oil, when taking into account its freshness and purity, should be regarded as an admirable addition.

Blue Buffalo Life Protection Dry Dog Food

First 5 ingredients: Deboned chicken, chicken meal, brown rice, barley, oatmeal
Type: Grain-inclusive (brown rice, barley, oatmeal)
Price: $$
Best For: Adult dogs
Other recipes: Healthy weight, small breed, large breed, puppy

The majority of the meat protein in this specific Blue Buffalo Life Protection comes from chicken and chicken meal. Our analysis of the dry matter label shows that the recipe consists of 27% protein, 16% fat, and approximately 50% estimated carbs. As such, it has a fat-to-protein ratio of around 58%, which makes it a great choice considering its quality and affordable price. We highly recommend it.

Canidae All Life Stages Dry Dog Food

First 5 ingredients: Chicken meal, barley, peas, chicken fat, brown rice
Type: Grain-inclusive (barley, brown rice, white rice)
Price: $
Best For: All adults + puppies
Other recipes: Large breed, less active, multi-protein

The Canidae All Life Stages formula derives most of its animal protein from chicken meal. According to our dry matter label report, the recipe includes 29% protein, 15% fat, and approximately 48% estimated carbs, resulting in a fat-to-protein ratio of roughly 52%.

An affordable classic choice that does not contain cheap fillers and comes highly recommended.

Chicken Soup for the Soul Dry Dog Food

First 5 ingredients: Chicken, turkey, chicken meal, turkey meal, cracked pearled barley
Type: Grain-inclusive (cracked pearled barley, whole grain brown rice, oatmeal, white rice)
Price: $
Best For: Adult dogs
Other recipes: Puppy, large breed, mature, weight care

Chicken Soup for the Soul Classic Adult obtains most of its meat protein from poultry and poultry meal. Our assessment of the dry matter labeling shows that the formula consists of 28% protein, 14% fat, and an estimated 50% carbohydrates, resulting in a fat-to-protein ratio of approximately 52%.

A highly recommended recipe that offers superior quality at a reasonable cost, without any low-quality protein additives.

Nutro Ultra Dry Dog Food

First 5 ingredients: Chicken, chicken meal, whole grain sorghum, whole grain barley, whole grain oats
Type: Grain-inclusive (sorghum, barley, oats)
Price: $$
Best For: Adult dogs
Other recipes: Weight management, large breed, senior, small breed

The main source of meat protein in this particular Nutro Ultra Adult formula is derived from both chicken and chicken meal. Our analysis of the label on the dry matter shows that the recipe consists of 27% protein, 17% fat, and an estimated 49% carbohydrates, resulting in a fat-to-protein ratio approximately equal to 63%.

Enthusiastically recommended, this classic design comes at an affordable price without any inclusion of cheap agricultural by-products.

The Best Natural Dog Foods of 2022, According to Veterinarians

In our quest for healthier lifestyles, we commonly aspire to consume a more natural diet that minimizes processed foods. As devoted pet owners, we desire the same for our dogs, as a natural diet can yield comparable advantages. However, selecting the optimal natural dog food for your canine companion poses a question.

To start with, it is important to understand the characteristics of natural pet food. Natural pet food, as defined by the Association of American Feed Control Officers, should consist of ingredients that come from plants, animals, or naturally occurring minerals, and should not have been chemically processed. While the FDA does not currently regulate the term “natural,” opting for a natural dog food can help reduce the presence of artificial colors, flavors, and synthetic preservatives in your dog’s diet. This ensures that they consume a greater amount of whole ingredients and fewer chemicals.

In order to find the best natural dog food for your dog, we sought the advice of experts. We specifically aimed to narrow down the options recommended by vets. However, it is important to consult your veterinarian before making any alterations to your pup’s diet.

ACANA Singles + Wholesome Grains Limited Ingredient Diet Lamb & Pumpkin Recipe

Dr. Katy Nelson, Chewy’s senior veterinarian, states that the combination of lamb and pumpkin is highly successful. Pumpkin is highly beneficial for pet digestion and approximately 60 percent of the ingredients consist of high-quality lamb. Additionally, this dry food incorporates whole grains such as oats and sorghum to provide your dog with ample sustained energy.

Nature’s Recipe Grain-Free Salmon, Sweet Potato & Pumpkin Recipe

Dr. Jennifer Coates, DVM, suggests this Nature’s Recipe diet as a grain-free dry food option. She appreciates that the primary ingredient is salmon, which is a high-quality protein source that aids in muscle development. Additionally, this natural dog food includes sweet potatoes and pumpkin, which serve as good sources of carbohydrates for increased energy and improved digestion.

Instinct Original Grain-Free Real Chicken Natural Wet Canned Dog Food

This dog food in a can consists of real meat, fruits, and vegetables. With the use of cage-free chicken as the primary ingredient, you can rely on it to provide a substantial amount of protein. Additionally, it contains natural sources of omega fatty acids which promote healthy skin and a glossy coat. According to Dr. Nelson, incorporating a grain-free wet dog food like this into a well-balanced diet, alongside nutritious kibble, is recommended.

Purina Beyond Beef, Potato & Green Bean Recipe Ground Entree Canned Dog Food

Dr. Coates suggests this Purina canned blend made with beef, potato, and green bean if you are in search of dog food that is both affordable and of excellent quality. It contains essential nutrients such as vitamins and minerals, as well as beef sourced from Texas.

Purina Beyond Simply White Meat Chicken & Whole Barley Recipe Dry Dog Food

This high quality dog food is recommended by Dr. Coates as a great option that is affordable, especially if you have a large dog that consumes a lot of kibble. It is made using steroid-free, white meat chicken and contains limited ingredients, providing a rich source of nutrients and natural probiotics to promote healthy digestion.

Stella & Chewy’s Tantalizing Turkey Meal Mixers Freeze-Dried Raw Dog Food Topper

If you are searching for a cost-effective method to introduce natural dog food into your pet’s diet, Dr. Nelson suggests using natural dog food toppers. These freeze-dried morsels are created from cage-free turkey and organic fruits and vegetables, and they are highly recommended. Additionally, these nuggets can even be fed as a complete meal, offering an added bonus.

Stella & Chewy’s Freeze-Dried Chicken Dinner Patties

If you want to feed your dog a raw diet, natural freeze-dried dog foods such as these chicken dinner patties offer a convenient option. They can be served as-is or rehydrated with water. Additionally, they work well as a topper for your dog’s diet of kibble and fresh foods, which is precisely how Dr. Nelsons utilizes Stella and Chewy’s freeze-dried biscuits for her own dogs.

The Honest Kitchen Whole Grain Chicken Recipe Dehydrated Dog Food

This whole grain dehydrated healthy dog food has an ingredient list of words you can actually pronounce, starting with chicken. “The Honest Kitchen does a great job of creating human-grade meals for pets with healthy proteins, grains, fruits and vegetables—pets feel like they’re eating Thanksgiving dinner every day … but it’s good for them!” says Dr. Nelson. If you have a picky eater, add this to their meal for an extra flavor boost.

Farmina N&D Ancestral Grain Chicken & Pomegranate Senior Recipe

Dr. Nelson suggests that dogs in their senior years might require certain dietary requirements for their all-natural dog food. This food is recommended for older dogs as it contains high-quality animal protein. Additionally, it is formulated using GMO-free spelt and oats, providing steady energy for your aging dog.

Instinct Raw Boost Freeze-Dried Raw Coated Dry Puppy Food

Dr. Nelson suggests this combination of whole grain kibble and freeze-dried raw blend for young dogs, as it is beneficial for their physical and cognitive well-being. The recipe consists of minimally processed chicken and natural DHA derived from chicken eggs, both of which aid in the growth of the brain and eyes.