Feeding your dog a nutritious diet is an important responsibility of being a pet owner, along with providing a comfortable bed and entertaining toys. According to the American Veterinary Medical Association, “appropriate food” is ranked fourth in their Guidelines for Responsible Pet Ownership. Choosing the right food for your dog is a crucial decision as it can improve digestion and absorption, as well as provide specific health benefits.
Dr. Lori Teller, president of the American Veterinary Medical Association, explained that commercially processed canned or kibble foods are carefully formulated to provide dogs with the necessary proteins, fats, carbohydrates, vitamins, and minerals. These foods are convenient, consistent, and readily available. Additionally, they undergo stringent quality control and inspection measures to detect any contaminants or pathogens before they can harm pets or people.
As the number of dog-owning households increases in the U.S., it is not surprising that Americans are spending more money on their dogs’ food. According to a recent survey by the American Pet Products Association, people spent over $50 billion on pet food and treats in 2021, compared to $38 billion in 2020. On average, dog owners spend $287 on food each year. The same survey found that in 2020, 41% of dog owners chose to feed their pets premium dog food, up from 37% the previous year. Despite concerns about inflation and decreased spending on items like leashes and toys, major pet retailers like Chewy and Petco have observed a higher demand for premium dog food in the past year.
However, determining which dog food is the most suitable for your dog can be a challenge. To assist you in making a decision, we sought advice from veterinarians and animal nutrition experts regarding important factors to consider when selecting the best dog food. Additionally, we have assembled a list of highly rated options that align with their recommendations.
Best dog food to consider in August 2023
All of the highly rated dog foods, including dry kibble and canned wet food, meet or exceed the nutritional standards set by the Association of Animal Feed Controls Officials (AAFCO) as advised by our experts. These brands have veterinary nutritionists on staff to ensure the use of high-quality ingredients and provide a feed guide on their packaging to help you determine the appropriate portions for your dog based on their weight and size. Additionally, all of the brands offer high-calorie options for puppies and easily digestible kibble sizes for dogs of different sizes.
Top overall dog food: Royal Canin
Royal Canin is known for its wide range of dog food options, including both dry and wet food. They cater to various dog sizes, breeds, and dietary requirements, such as food sensitivities and gastrointestinal issues. I personally feed my 4-year-old Havachon, Bella, the small breed kibble from this brand. It is specifically formulated for small dogs weighing 9 pounds to 22 pounds and aged 10 months to 8 years. This choice was suggested by my veterinarian. Bella tends to eat this brand faster compared to others, some of which she would leave half-eaten. Shari Uyehara, the manager of editorial operations at Select, also feeds her 11-month-old cavalier King Charles spaniel, Loki, the brand’s puppy formula, which was recommended by Loki’s breeder. Additionally, Royal Canin offers dry food formula suitable for medium and large breed dogs.
Top subscription dog food: The Farmer’s Dog
There are multiple subscription home delivery services for dog food that regularly send bags of fresh food directly to your door. Dr. Judy Morgan, a veterinarian specializing in integrative care, suggested The Farmer’s Dog, which she describes as “TV dinners for dogs” due to their appeal. Sadhana Daruvuri, a select social editor, revealed that she feeds The Farmer’s Dog to her 7-month-old Maltipoo, Bandit, and he enjoys it. She mentioned that she conducted a trial with Bandit and it was evident that he preferred it over his kibble, as her friends had also experienced with their dogs. Morgan pointed out that while this option may not be cost-effective for those on a budget with larger dogs, it could be more advantageous for owners of smaller dogs.
Top dog food for puppies: Hill’s Science Diet
According to the brand, Hill’s Science Diet offers dog food for puppies that is specifically designed for dogs up to 1 year old. This dog food is packaged in a small kibble that is easy to digest. The formula includes natural DHA from fish oil, which supports the healthy development of the brain and eyes in puppies. Additionally, there is a blend of vitamin E and vitamin C that aids in supporting a healthy immune system in puppies. Hill’s Science Diet provides this dog food in both a 4.5-pound and 15.5-pound bag. They also offer a canned puppy formula, which our experts recommend mixing into your dog’s kibble.
Top dog food for large breeds: Purina
Purina asserts that it has a team of veterinary nutritionists who assist in determining healthy formulations and ingredients. According to Purina, their highly regarded Pro Plan dog food is suitable for dogs of various sizes and at all stages of life, including large breed adults and puppies. The brand states that the Purina Pro Plan formula includes natural prebiotic fiber for digestive health, as well as omega-6 fatty acids and vitamin A for skin and coat health. Zoe Malin, a writer, mentions that her 100-pound yellow lab Chance consumes the weight management dry kibble from Purina, which according to the brand, contains a protein-to-fat ratio that is more optimized. Zoe Malin further explains that Chance has been eating this particular dog food since he turned 9 years old and became less active compared to when he was a puppy.
Top frozen dog food: Just Food For Dogs
According to the brand, Just Food for Dogs is created with a focus on being high in protein and low in calorie count. This makes it potentially advantageous for dogs who may be overweight or lack regular exercise. The brand provides a range of meal choices that consist of locally sourced produce and adhere to a limited ingredients diet, featuring only one source of protein.
According to Just Food For Dogs, this option of sweet potato and fish is suitable for dogs with sensitive stomachs or allergies who require a novel protein. The brand provides two varieties of food: Fresh Frozen, which can be thawed and served without any preservatives, and Pantry Fresh, which can be stored for up to two years without refrigeration.
Top dog food for sensitive stomachs: Purina
Investing in dog food specially formulated for dogs with sensitive stomachs and skin can be beneficial for dogs who are sensitive to certain ingredients in food. Some dogs may experience symptoms such as excessive itching, loose stools, and occasional vomiting. Purina offers a dog food option that does not contain corn, wheat, or soy, making it easier for dogs with an intolerance to digest. However, it is important to note that these ingredients are still beneficial as they contain essential vitamins, minerals, and carbohydrates. The formula from Purina includes high-protein salmon, probiotics, and prebiotic fiber to support digestive and immune health, as well as omega-6 fatty acids for a healthy skin and coat. This helps ensure that your dog receives a complete and balanced diet.
Top poultry-free dog food: Merrick
Morgan Greenwald, an editor, mentioned that she feeds her 1-year-old pit bull mix named Suzie with Merrick’s salmon and sweet potato kibble. This specific food is given to Suzie as she cannot handle certain types of protein. Greenwald further stated that Suzie eats the food quickly and has a positive response to it. Suzie has a sensitive stomach, and her vet advised avoiding chicken and turkey, therefore Greenwald prefers to stick to the salmon. Additionally, Greenwald appreciates the inclusion of sweet potato in the formula as it is beneficial for a dog’s digestion.
According to the experts we consulted, studies indicate that proteins such as beef and chicken are frequently reported as triggers for allergies in dogs. Therefore, it is crucial to be aware of common signs of allergies, such as excessive itching and vomiting, in order to determine the most suitable diet for dogs. Dr. Joe Wakshlag, a professor at Cornell College of Veterinary Medicine specializing in clinical nutrition, sports medicine, and rehabilitation, emphasized the importance of identifying potential allergens. Nonetheless, it is unnecessary to avoid chicken and turkey unless you suspect that your dog may have an allergy or intolerance, as most dogs do not typically experience these types of allergies.
Top canned dog food: Royal Canin
Royal Canin offers a variety of wet food options that have been tested by veterinary nutritionists. If you prefer to incorporate canned food into your dog’s meals, these options can provide more diversity at dinnertime. Although it is more expensive, this low-fat option can be beneficial for adult dogs with gastrointestinal issues or digestive sensitivities, according to Royal Canin. The formula contains prebiotics to maintain good bacteria in the gut, a blend of dietary fibers to promote healthy digestion, and omega-3 fatty acids from fish oil to soothe the GI tract.
What’s the difference between puppy food and adult dog food?
Dr. Krause informed The Dodo that certain adult dog foods might lack the necessary nutrients for a developing puppy.
According to her, pet owners can ensure that they are providing their puppies with properly balanced puppy food by selecting a food labeled by AAFCO standards as suitable for puppies or all life stages.
What pet parents should look for in a puppy food
According to Dr. Krause, when searching for an excellent puppy food, it is more crucial to ensure that the chosen food is balanced for puppies or all life stages, rather than focusing on specific ingredients.
Additionally, your vet will inform you if there is a need to search for specific puppy food ingredients based on a potential medical diagnosis, as mentioned by Dr. Bryant.
Apart from ingredients, there are a few additional factors that pet parents should consider while selecting the appropriate food for their puppies.
Wet vs. dry food
Dr. Krause stated that canned food frequently has a higher moisture content and can occasionally contain higher levels of protein. On the other hand, kibble is dry and typically has additional carbohydrates.
There are certain puppies that have preferences when it comes to their preferred formula, so you have the option to try both and see which one your puppy is more attracted to. In fact, some pet owners choose to feed their puppies dry food during one feeding and wet food during another.
Dr. Bryant informed The Dodo that if the brand is decent, he doesn’t stress excessively about their choice.
Large- vs. small-breed puppy food
Dr. Satchu advises that it is crucial to purchase the breed formula that corresponds with the type of puppy you are acquiring, as they will vary depending on your puppy’s nutritional requirements.
According to Dr. Satchu, the breed formulations are designed to match the size a puppy is anticipated to reach in its adult stage, and are available in regular, large-breed, and small-breed variations.
According to Dr. Satchu, large-breed formulas are suitable for puppies that are expected to weigh over approximately 60 to 75 pounds as adults, and small-breed formulas are suitable for puppies that are expected to weigh under 20 pounds as adults.
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“Large versus small comes down to not ingredients but a reduction in protein for large breeds,” Dr. Bryant explained. “The theory is that this slows their growth just a bit to decrease the potential of some joint diseases.”
How to transition your puppy to adult food
Make sure to make the transition from puppy food to adult formula over a long period of time when it is time for your puppy to switch.
Dr. Bryant advised that the transition from puppy food to adult food should be carried out gradually over a period of about a month, with a decrease in puppy food and an increase in adult food. He mentioned that this shift should occur when the dog is around 12 months old, but for giant breeds, pet parents can wait until their dog is 16 months old.
To ensure your puppy starts off well, it is important to feed them a high-quality puppy food that is recommended by a veterinarian. This will help set them up for a long, healthy, and joyful life. Remember to make a wise choice and seek guidance from your vet.
