Our dogs do so much for us, so it’s only fair that we reward them with the best adult dog food — or puppy food, to help their development — that we can buy.
The options include hypoallergenic, grain-free, non-GMO, dry, wet, or even freeze-dried and raw. For the newbie dog owner, it can be a little daunting! These reviews are our choices for the best dog foods, for puppies and adult dogs alike, so you can choose the brand that your best friend will adore.
A Glance at Our Top Picks (2023 Update)
Image Product Details
Best Overall
Nom Nom Fresh Dog Food
Human-grade quality
Gluten free & only whole grains
Fresh ingredients
Click to Save 50%
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Best Value
Blue Buffalo Divine Delights
Two flavors
No corn, wheat, or soy
Natural ingredients
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Instinct Raw Boost
High protein kibble
Omega fatty acids
No corn, wheat, or soy
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Blue Buffalo Life Protection
Formulated for puppies
High-quality protein
Omega fatty acids
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Taste of the Wild Prairie
32% protein
Real meat
Omega fatty acids
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The 20 Best Dog Foods
1. Nom Nom Fresh Dog Food — Best Overall
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Food Form: Fresh
Flavor: Beef, Chicken, Pork, Turkey
Special Diet: Gluten-free, wholegrain, high-protein
Nom Nom dog food includes four different recipes for fresh human-grade dog food. Each recipe is nutritionally balanced for your dog’s overall well-being and is appropriate for all life stages, which is why we recommend it as the best overall dog food.
Nom Nom is a good choice for dogs that suffer from allergies or food sensitivities, as it is a limited-ingredient food. This makes it easy to keep certain symptom-causing ingredients out of your dog’s diet. Nom Nom food has a higher-than-average protein-to-fat ratio and lower-than-average carbohydrate levels. Meat is the number-one source of protein in the food, and it is free from filler ingredients and only provides the nutritious ingredients that your dog needs.
As with all fresh foods, Nom Nom food must be stored in the refrigerator or freezer to prevent spoilage. While this can be an adjustment for owners who have never fed fresh food to their dogs, we feel that it’s worth it based on the nutritional value of this food.
Pros
Great for allergies or skin sensitivities
Limited-ingredient food
High protein-to-fat ratio
Low in carbohydrates
Meat is the number-one protein source
Cons
Requires storage in refrigerator or freezer
Designed with small dog breeds in mind, the Blue Buffalo Divine Delights Variety Pack comes in ready-made portions and two flavors in gravy: New York strips and filet mignon. Sold in a pack of 12, Blue Buffalo is the best dog food for the money. Focused on using natural ingredients, Blue Buffalo doesn’t use corn, wheat, or soy products in either recipe and avoids poultry by-products.
Great for allergies or skin sensitivities
Limited-ingredient food
High protein-to-fat ratio
Low in carbohydrates
Meat is the number-one protein source
- Great for allergies or skin sensitivities
- Limited-ingredient food
- High protein-to-fat ratio
- Low in carbohydrates
- Meat is the number-one protein source
Requires storage in refrigerator or freezer
- Requires storage in refrigerator or freezer
Food Form: Wet
Flavor: Filet mignon and NY strips
Special Diet: No corn, wheat, or soy; grain-free
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As this option is formulated for small dog breeds, the portions are too small for large breeds and may not contain the nutrients that they need to stay healthy. The pre-portioned trays are also difficult to open, especially for dog owners with arthritis.
Pros
Formulated for small dog breeds
Two flavors
12 pack
No corn, wheat, or soy
Ready-made portions
Natural ingredients
No poultry by-products
Budget friendly
Cons
Unsuitable for large dog breeds
Difficult to open for owners with arthritis
Sold in 4-pound, 10-pound, or 21-pound bags, the Instinct Raw Boost Grain-Free Recipe uses a blend of kibble and real chicken to give your dog a break from processed dog foods. With raw chicken to mimic the diet of your dog’s wild ancestors, the recipe is grain- and gluten-free.
Formulated for small dog breeds
Two flavors
12 pack
No corn, wheat, or soy
Ready-made portions
Natural ingredients
No poultry by-products
Budget friendly
- Formulated for small dog breeds
- Two flavors
- 12 pack
- No corn, wheat, or soy
- Ready-made portions
- Natural ingredients
- No poultry by-products
- Budget friendly
Unsuitable for large dog breeds
Difficult to open for owners with arthritis
- Unsuitable for large dog breeds
- Difficult to open for owners with arthritis
Food Form: Raw
Flavor: Chicken
Special Diet: Grain-free, gluten-free, high-protein, no corn, no wheat, no soy
Alongside the high-protein kibble, the formula contains omega fatty acids 3 and 6, probiotics, and antioxidants to support both your dog’s immune and digestive systems and their coat health.
Do know that raw food can carry more bad bacteria than fully cooked foods and might not last as long as some other options.
Pros
Real chicken
High protein kibble
Probiotics
Omega fatty acids
Antioxidants
Supports immune, digestive, and coat health
No corn, wheat, or soy
Grain and gluten-free
Available in three sizes
Cons
Raw food can carry more bacteria
The Blue Buffalo Life Protection Formula is designed specifically to support the growth of your puppy. It uses DHA and ARA to promote healthy brain and eye development, along with high-quality protein and omega fatty acids for muscle growth and healthy skin and fur. Blue Buffalo also contains antioxidants, vitamins, and minerals to boost your puppy’s immune health.
Real chicken
High protein kibble
Probiotics
Omega fatty acids
Antioxidants
Supports immune, digestive, and coat health
No corn, wheat, or soy
Grain and gluten-free
Available in three sizes
- Real chicken
- High protein kibble
- Probiotics
- Omega fatty acids
- Antioxidants
- Supports immune, digestive, and coat health
- No corn, wheat, or soy
- Grain and gluten-free
- Available in three sizes
Raw food can carry more bacteria
- Raw food can carry more bacteria
Food Form: Dry
Flavor: Chicken and brown rice
Special Diet: No corn, wheat, or soy
Unlike other kibbles that may be too big for your puppy to manage, this Life Protection formula is packed into “puppy-size” pieces to make it easy to eat. The kibble also helps prevent the build-up of tartar on teeth.
Due to the puppy-age formula, this Blue Buffalo option doesn’t contain the nutrients that adult and senior dogs require.
Pros
Formulated for puppies
DHA and ARA for brain and eye development
High-quality protein
Omega fatty acids
Supports immune health
“Puppy-sized” kibble
Prevents tartar build-up
Cons
Unsuitable for adult or senior dogs
With omega fatty acids and 32% protein, the Taste of the Wild High Prairie Dog Food supports your dog’s bones, muscles, and joints. The roasted bison and venison flavors are created using real meat to encourage your canine’s appetite.
Formulated for puppies
DHA and ARA for brain and eye development
High-quality protein
Omega fatty acids
Supports immune health
“Puppy-sized” kibble
Prevents tartar build-up
- Formulated for puppies
- DHA and ARA for brain and eye development
- High-quality protein
- Omega fatty acids
- Supports immune health
- “Puppy-sized” kibble
- Prevents tartar build-up
Unsuitable for adult or senior dogs
- Unsuitable for adult or senior dogs
Food Form: Dry
Flavor: Roasted bison and venison
Special Diet: Grain-free, gluten-free, high-protein
To ensure that the recipe is as healthy as possible, the formula contains prebiotics, probiotics, and antioxidants from real fruit and vegetables. It also doesn’t use common allergens that your dog might react to, like grain, gluten, corn, and wheat products.
While Taste of the Wild is packed with nutrition for your best friend, it’s an expensive kibble and might not be suited for all budgets.
Pros
32% protein
Supports bones, muscles, and joints
Real meat
Omega fatty acids
Prebiotics and probiotics
Antioxidants
Grain- and gluten-free
No corn or wheat
Cons
Expensive
- American Journey Salmon & Sweet Potato Recipe
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Food Form: Dry
Flavor: Salmon and sweet potato
Special Diet: Grain-free, high-protein, no corn, no wheat, no soy
Made with real salmon, sweet potato, fruits, and vegetables, the American Journey Salmon & Sweet Potato Recipe is grain-free and suitable for dogs with sensitive stomachs. The high protein content, amino acids, omega oils, and antioxidants work to promote lean muscles, skin, and coat health, along with strong immune and digestive systems.
32% protein
Supports bones, muscles, and joints
Real meat
Omega fatty acids
Prebiotics and probiotics
Antioxidants
Grain- and gluten-free
No corn or wheat
- 32% protein
- Supports bones, muscles, and joints
- Real meat
- Omega fatty acids
- Prebiotics and probiotics
- Antioxidants
- Grain- and gluten-free
- No corn or wheat
Expensive
- Expensive
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Food Form: Dry
Flavor: Salmon and sweet potato
Special Diet: Grain-free, high-protein, no corn, no wheat, no soy
Each of the three bag sizes — 4, 12, or 24 pounds — also contains DHA to help the development of the brain and eyes in younger dogs.
With its focus on real ingredients, American Journey is one of the more expensive dog foods out there. Some owners have also reported their dogs suffered from stomach upset while eating it.
Pros
Real salmon and sweet potato
Fruits and vegetables
High protein
Amino acids promote healthy muscles
Omega fatty acids
Fiber-rich chickpeas
Antioxidants
Grain-free
4-, 12-, or 24-pound bags
DHA supports brain and eye development
Cons
Expensive
Caused stomach upset for some dogs
For dogs with sensitive stomachs, the Purina Pro Plan Salmon & Rice Formula is easy to digest and avoids ingredients known to cause allergic reactions in some dogs, like corn, wheat, and soy. Using a careful blend of omega fatty acids, prebiotics, and probiotics, Purina Pro Plan supports your dog’s skin, coat, immune, and digestive health. The recipe is made with real salmon to utilize the natural omega-3 and -6 oils.
Real salmon and sweet potato
Fruits and vegetables
High protein
Amino acids promote healthy muscles
Omega fatty acids
Fiber-rich chickpeas
Antioxidants
Grain-free
4-, 12-, or 24-pound bags
DHA supports brain and eye development
- Real salmon and sweet potato
- Fruits and vegetables
- High protein
- Amino acids promote healthy muscles
- Omega fatty acids
- Fiber-rich chickpeas
- Antioxidants
- Grain-free
- 4-, 12-, or 24-pound bags
- DHA supports brain and eye development
Expensive
Caused stomach upset for some dogs
- Expensive
- Caused stomach upset for some dogs
Food Form: Dry
Flavor: Salmon and rice
Special Diet: High-protein, no corn, no wheat, no soy
Although the 30-pound bag size will last a long time and is suitable for multi-dog households, some fussy canines may grow tired of the salmon and rice flavor and eventually refuse to eat it.
Pros
Gentle on sensitive stomachs
No corn, wheat, or soy
Real salmon
Omega fatty acids
Prebiotics and probiotics
Easy to digest
Cons
Only available in 30-pound bags
Fussy dogs might get bored with the flavor
- American Journey Variety Pack Canned Dog Food
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Food Form: Wet
Flavor: Chicken and beef
Special Diet: Grain-free, no corn, no soy, no wheat, high-protein
American Journey Variety Pack Canned Dog Food is sold in packs of 12 12.5-ounce cans. The flavors include an equal selection of chicken or beef stew, both of which contain plenty of vitamins, minerals, amino acids, and omega fatty acids to support your dog’s overall health — from their bone and joints to their immune systems and their skin and coat.
Gentle on sensitive stomachs
No corn, wheat, or soy
Real salmon
Omega fatty acids
Prebiotics and probiotics
Easy to digest
- Gentle on sensitive stomachs
- No corn, wheat, or soy
- Real salmon
- Omega fatty acids
- Prebiotics and probiotics
- Easy to digest
Only available in 30-pound bags
Fussy dogs might get bored with the flavor
- Only available in 30-pound bags
- Fussy dogs might get bored with the flavor
Food Form: Wet
Flavor: Chicken and beef
Special Diet: Grain-free, no corn, no soy, no wheat, high-protein
Formulated with simple recipes that don’t contain corn, wheat, soy, by-products, or grain, this high-protein food is gentle on sensitive stomachs and doesn’t exacerbate allergies.
Some owners have mentioned that the cans that they ordered arrived dented. A few fussy canines may dislike the taste of this American Journey wet food and refuse to eat it.
Pros
Grain-free
High protein
Omega fatty acids
No by-products
Amino acids
Gentle on sensitive stomachs
Two flavors
Pack of 12
Cons
Some fussy dogs don’t like the taste
The cans are sometimes dented
Puppies that enjoyed the puppy-oriented version of Blue Buffalo Life Protection Formula Dry Food will enjoy the adult version when they grow up. Containing high-quality protein and glucosamine, Blue Buffalo promotes bone and dental health, while supporting your dog’s joints. The antioxidants also work to ensure that your favorite canine’s immune system stays strong.
Grain-free
High protein
Omega fatty acids
No by-products
Amino acids
Gentle on sensitive stomachs
Two flavors
Pack of 12
- Grain-free
- High protein
- Omega fatty acids
- No by-products
- Amino acids
- Gentle on sensitive stomachs
- Two flavors
- Pack of 12
Some fussy dogs don’t like the taste
The cans are sometimes dented
- Some fussy dogs don’t like the taste
- The cans are sometimes dented
Food Form: Dry
Flavor: Chicken and brown rice
Special Diet: No corn, no wheat, no soy
To help your dog maintain a healthy diet, Purina Pro Plan doesn’t use corn, wheat, soy, or poultry by-products. It’s also available in five bag sizes — 3, 6, 15, 24, and 30 pounds — for a range of household sizes.
Despite sharing a name with the puppy formula, this recipe is only suitable for adult dogs and doesn’t contain the nutrients needed for puppies. The larger bags are also expensive and the kibble crumbles easily.
Pros
High-quality protein
Available in five sizes
Supports bone and dental health
Glucosamine for joint health
Antioxidants
No corn, wheat, or soy
No poultry by-products
Cons
The kibble crumbles easily
Expensive
Not suitable for puppies
Sold in four bag sizes, the Purina ONE SmartBlend Chicken & Rice Formula is suitable for single- or multi-dog homes. The recipe uses real chicken and is easy to digest to ensure that your dog receives the nutrition that they need to remain healthy. Omega fatty acids, vitamins A and E, and included glucosamine keep your canine’s skin, coat, immune system, heart, and joints in top shape.
High-quality protein
Available in five sizes
Supports bone and dental health
Glucosamine for joint health
Antioxidants
No corn, wheat, or soy
No poultry by-products
- High-quality protein
- Available in five sizes
- Supports bone and dental health
- Glucosamine for joint health
- Antioxidants
- No corn, wheat, or soy
- No poultry by-products
The kibble crumbles easily
Expensive
Not suitable for puppies
- The kibble crumbles easily
- Expensive
- Not suitable for puppies
Food Form: Dry
Flavor: Chicken and rice
Special Diet: High-protein
Some owners have complained about the strong “off” smell of this product, and others mentioned that they received a torn bag. A few fussy dogs may also refuse to eat this SmartBlend option, particularly if they get bored with the flavor when you use the larger bags.
Pros
Omega fatty acids
Four bag sizes
Vitamins A and E
Glucosamine
Easy to digest
Real chicken
Cons
The bag can be damaged during shipping
Some dogs dislike the flavor
Smells unpleasant
The Rachael Ray Nutrish Real Beef, Pea, & Brown Rice Recipe helps boost your dog’s energy levels with a tasty mix of real meat and vegetables. Omega fatty acids support your four-legged friend’s skin and coat health, while the fiber and protein content promotes organ, muscle, and digestive health.
Omega fatty acids
Four bag sizes
Vitamins A and E
Glucosamine
Easy to digest
Real chicken
- Omega fatty acids
- Four bag sizes
- Vitamins A and E
- Glucosamine
- Easy to digest
- Real chicken
The bag can be damaged during shipping
Some dogs dislike the flavor
Smells unpleasant
- The bag can be damaged during shipping
- Some dogs dislike the flavor
- Smells unpleasant
Food Form: Dry
Flavor: Beef, pea, and brown rice
Special Diet: Gluten-free, no wheat
Sold in 6-, 14-, 28-, or 40-pound bags, Rachael Ray suits canines that are trying out new food or multi-dog households.
Some owners have complained about the greasiness of this kibble, and the bag has been known to break during the shipping process. Rachael Ray Nutrish also includes peas in the recipe, and some dogs may be allergic to the ingredient.
Pros
Omega fatty acids
Real beef
No poultry by-products
Available in four sizes
Supports digestion
Promotes organ and muscle health
Cons
Greasy
Contains peas
The bag can break during shipping
- See Also: Rachael Ray Dog Food Review
- Tylee’s Human-Grade Frozen Dog Food
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Food Form: Frozen
Flavor: Beef
Special Diet: Grain-free, pea-free, human-grade, no corn, no wheat, no soy
If you’re worried about the type of food that your dog is ingesting or don’t want to feed your best friend something that you wouldn’t eat yourself, Tylee’s Human-Grade Frozen Dog Food is suitable for human consumption. Frozen in 30- or 96-pound bags for extra longevity, Tylee’s is made with USDA beef and can be used as a complete meal or a food topper.
Omega fatty acids
Real beef
No poultry by-products
Available in four sizes
Supports digestion
Promotes organ and muscle health
- Omega fatty acids
- Real beef
- No poultry by-products
- Available in four sizes
- Supports digestion
- Promotes organ and muscle health
Greasy
Contains peas
The bag can break during shipping
- Greasy
- Contains peas
- The bag can break during shipping
Food Form: Frozen
Flavor: Beef
Special Diet: Grain-free, pea-free, human-grade, no corn, no wheat, no soy
To properly support your canine’s health and balanced diet, the recipe contains natural fiber, antioxidants, and omega fatty acids. Tylee’s also takes pride in avoiding common allergens like corn, wheat, soy, and by-products.
Tylee’s must be kept in the freezer until ready to defrost and use. While it lasts a long time, both available bag sizes are on the large side and may go to waste if your dog doesn’t like the flavor. Also, depending on the time taken during shipping, the product may arrive defrosted.
Pros
USDA beef
Human-grade
Natural fiber
Antioxidants
Omega fatty acids
No corn, wheat, or soy
No by-products
Two bag sizes
Can be used as a complete meal or food topper
Cons
Must be kept frozen
Has to be defrosted before use
No small bags
Can defrost during shipping
While Iams Adult MiniChunks High Protein Dog Food can be given to all sizes of dogs, the kibble is designed to be easy to eat for small breeds. The five bag sizes give you plenty of options for single- or multi-dog homes or just to try out a new brand.
USDA beef
Human-grade
Natural fiber
Antioxidants
Omega fatty acids
No corn, wheat, or soy
No by-products
Two bag sizes
Can be used as a complete meal or food topper
- USDA beef
- Human-grade
- Natural fiber
- Antioxidants
- Omega fatty acids
- No corn, wheat, or soy
- No by-products
- Two bag sizes
- Can be used as a complete meal or food topper
Must be kept frozen
Has to be defrosted before use
No small bags
Can defrost during shipping
- Must be kept frozen
- Has to be defrosted before use
- No small bags
- Can defrost during shipping
Food Form: Dry
Flavor: Chicken
Special Diet: High protein
Protein from real chicken, antioxidants, fibers, and prebiotics all support the health of your canine’s digestive and immune systems.
While the kibble is designed with small breeds in mind, some owners have said that it’s still too big for their dog. There are also reports of this dry food causing stomach upsets and allergic reactions due to the recipe not being hypoallergenic.
Pros
Five bag sizes
Designed for small dog breeds
Real chicken
Supports digestive health
Antioxidants
Fibers and prebiotics
Cons
MiniChunks might be too big for some breeds
Can cause stomach upset
Not hypoallergenic
Beef, filet mignon, grilled chicken, and porterhouse steak are all included in the Cesar Classic Loaf in Sauce Beef Recipe variety pack. With 24 ready-made portions, there is plenty of selection to keep fussy dogs entertained and for multi-dog homes.
Five bag sizes
Designed for small dog breeds
Real chicken
Supports digestive health
Antioxidants
Fibers and prebiotics
- Five bag sizes
- Designed for small dog breeds
- Real chicken
- Supports digestive health
- Antioxidants
- Fibers and prebiotics
MiniChunks might be too big for some breeds
Can cause stomach upset
Not hypoallergenic
- MiniChunks might be too big for some breeds
- Can cause stomach upset
- Not hypoallergenic
Food Form: Wet
Flavor: Beef, filet mignon, grilled chicken, porterhouse steak
Special Diet: Grain-free, pea-free
The trays are sealed for freshness and easy to open, and the grain-free portions can be used as food toppers for kibble or as meals on their own.
Since it’s formulated for adult dogs, Cesar doesn’t contain the nutrients that puppies need to support their growth. The portions might also be too small for large dog breeds. Some owners have complained about the bad smell of this dog food.
Pros
Four flavors
Pack of 24
Ready-made portions
Easy-peel trays
Grain-free
Can be a meal or a food topper
Cons
Unsuitable for puppies
Smells unpleasant
Portions might be too small for large breeds
Nature’s Recipe Salmon, Sweet Potato & Pumpkin Recipe supports your best friend’s digestion and immune health with real salmon and fiber-rich pumpkin. The salmon content ensures that your dog receives a healthy dose of omega oils to help keep their joints lubricated and their skin and coat healthy. There are also no poultry by-products, corn, wheat, or soy used in this grain-free formula.
Four flavors
Pack of 24
Ready-made portions
Easy-peel trays
Grain-free
Can be a meal or a food topper
- Four flavors
- Pack of 24
- Ready-made portions
- Easy-peel trays
- Grain-free
- Can be a meal or a food topper
Unsuitable for puppies
Smells unpleasant
Portions might be too small for large breeds
- Unsuitable for puppies
- Smells unpleasant
- Portions might be too small for large breeds
Food Form: Dry
Flavor: Salmon, sweet potato, and pumpkin
Special Diet: Grain-free, no corn, no wheat, no soy
Some owners found the strong fishy smell of this brand unpleasant, and the kibble itself can crumble easily, especially during shipping. Despite the three bag sizes — 4, 12, and 24 pounds — Nature’s Recipe is one of the more expensive options available. Some dogs refuse to eat salmon-flavored food.
Pros
Omega fatty acids
Supports digestion and immune health
Real salmon
Grain-free
No poultry by-products
Three bag sizes
No corn, wheat, or soy
Cons
Expensive
Kibble crumbles easily
Some dogs dislike the flavor
Unpleasant fishy smell
The Blue Buffalo Homestyle Recipe is sold in a pack of 12 cans. Formulated for adult dogs, it supports your canine’s immune, skin, and coat health with a careful mix of real beef, antioxidants, and omega fatty acids. Blue Buffalo avoids common allergens — wheat, corn, and soy products — and doesn’t use poultry by-products, all to ensure that your dog’s diet is healthy, nutritional, and balanced.
Omega fatty acids
Supports digestion and immune health
Real salmon
Grain-free
No poultry by-products
Three bag sizes
No corn, wheat, or soy
- Omega fatty acids
- Supports digestion and immune health
- Real salmon
- Grain-free
- No poultry by-products
- Three bag sizes
- No corn, wheat, or soy
Expensive
Kibble crumbles easily
Some dogs dislike the flavor
Unpleasant fishy smell
- Expensive
- Kibble crumbles easily
- Some dogs dislike the flavor
- Unpleasant fishy smell
Food Form: Wet
Flavor: Beef, garden vegetables, and sweet potatoes
Special Diet: No corn, no wheat, no soy
This 12-pack option is long-lasting but might not be suitable for fussy dogs that get bored easily due to the single flavor. Despite the lack of other allergens, the Homestyle Recipe does contain peas, which some dogs can be allergic to. The formula doesn’t contain the right nutrition for puppies.
Pros
12 pack
No wheat, corn, or soy
Real beef
Good source of energy
No poultry by-products
Supports immune health
Omega oils
Cons
Only one flavor
Unsuitable for puppies
Contains peas
High in protein and omega fatty acids, Merrick Backcountry Freeze-Dried Big Game Recipe is easy to digest for sensitive stomachs and supports fur and skin health. Made with real lamb, wild boar, and venison, this grain-, wheat-, corn-, and soy-free recipe doesn’t exacerbate allergies.
12 pack
No wheat, corn, or soy
Real beef
Good source of energy
No poultry by-products
Supports immune health
Omega oils
- 12 pack
- No wheat, corn, or soy
- Real beef
- Good source of energy
- No poultry by-products
- Supports immune health
- Omega oils
Only one flavor
Unsuitable for puppies
Contains peas
- Only one flavor
- Unsuitable for puppies
- Contains peas
Food Form: Freeze-dried
Flavor: Lamb, wild-boar, and venison
Special Diet: Grain-free, gluten-free, no corn, no wheat, no soy
Although the bags are sold in 4- or 40-pound sizes, Merrick Backcountry is one of the more expensive options out there. The raw nature of this freeze-dried food means it can carry more harmful bacteria, and the kibble itself can crumble easily.
Merrick Backcountry is suitable for all breed sizes, but some older dogs with fewer teeth or toy breeds may find the pieces difficult to eat.
Pros
Real lamb
Wild boar and venison
Two bag sizes
High protein
Gentle on sensitive stomachs
Omega fatty acids
Cons
Raw food can carry more bacteria
Freeze-dried kibble crumbles easily
Kibble might be too big for small dogs
Expensive
The Annamaet 25% Medium & Large Breed Dog Food is formulated with big dogs in mind. With non-GMO ingredients and no corn, wheat, or soy, the recipe is allergen-free and human-grade. The high protein content, prebiotics, probiotics, and omega fatty acids benefit your dog by boosting the health of their muscles, digestive system, skin, and fur.
Real lamb
Wild boar and venison
Two bag sizes
High protein
Gentle on sensitive stomachs
Omega fatty acids
- Real lamb
- Wild boar and venison
- Two bag sizes
- High protein
- Gentle on sensitive stomachs
- Omega fatty acids
Raw food can carry more bacteria
Freeze-dried kibble crumbles easily
Kibble might be too big for small dogs
Expensive
- Raw food can carry more bacteria
- Freeze-dried kibble crumbles easily
- Kibble might be too big for small dogs
- Expensive
Food Form: Dry
Flavor: Chicken meal and brown rice
Special Diet: No corn, no wheat, no soy, human-grade, high-protein, non-GMO
Unlike many other dry foods, the Annamaet isn’t designed for small dog breeds, and the pieces may be too big for them to manage comfortably. It’s also incredibly expensive despite the four bag sizes, and none of the options are resealable to maintain freshness.
Pros
Human-grade
Non-GMO
No corn, wheat, or soy
High protein
Prebiotics and probiotics
Omega fatty acids
Four bag sizes
Cons
Expensive
Not formulated for small dog breeds
The bag isn’t resealable
- True Acre Foods Chicken & Vegetable Dog Food
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Food Form: Dry
Flavor: Chicken and vegetable
Special Diet: Grain-free, gluten-free, no wheat or corn
True Acre Foods Chicken & Vegetable Dog Food uses U.S.A.-raised chicken in a grain- and gluten-free recipe to support your best friend’s digestive system. Omega fatty acids and antioxidants work together to keep your dog’s joints, skin, fur, and immune system healthy, while the lack of corn and wheat products avoids common canine allergies.
Human-grade
Non-GMO
No corn, wheat, or soy
High protein
Prebiotics and probiotics
Omega fatty acids
Four bag sizes
- Human-grade
- Non-GMO
- No corn, wheat, or soy
- High protein
- Prebiotics and probiotics
- Omega fatty acids
- Four bag sizes
Expensive
Not formulated for small dog breeds
The bag isn’t resealable
- Expensive
- Not formulated for small dog breeds
- The bag isn’t resealable
Food Form: Dry
Flavor: Chicken and vegetable
Special Diet: Grain-free, gluten-free, no wheat or corn
This option by True Acre is available in three sizes to suit single- or multi-dog households.
The formula does contain peas, which can cause allergic reactions in some dogs, and poultry by-products. While True Acre Foods is designed with all dog breeds in mind, the size of the kibble might be too big for small dog breeds.
Pros
Grain and gluten-free
Available in three sizes
Omega fatty acids
U.S.A.-raised chicken
Antioxidants
No wheat or corn
Supports digestion
Cons
Contains poultry by-products
Contains peas
Kibble might be too big for small dog breeds
Formulated to be easy to digest and gentle on sensitive stomachs, the Hill’s Science Diet Sensitive Stomach & Skin Dog Food can be used on its own or mixed with kibble. This 12-pack uses natural ingredients, including slow-cooked turkey, and is recommended by veterinarians.
Grain and gluten-free
Available in three sizes
Omega fatty acids
U.S.A.-raised chicken
Antioxidants
No wheat or corn
Supports digestion
- Grain and gluten-free
- Available in three sizes
- Omega fatty acids
- U.S.A.-raised chicken
- Antioxidants
- No wheat or corn
- Supports digestion
Contains poultry by-products
Contains peas
Kibble might be too big for small dog breeds
- Contains poultry by-products
- Contains peas
- Kibble might be too big for small dog breeds
Food Form: Wet
Flavor: Turkey and rice stew
Special Diet: Sensitive digestion
The contained vitamin E and omega oils support your dog’s immune and digestive systems, along with their skin and coat.
While the recipe is easy to digest, Hill’s Science Diet does contain allergens and may exacerbate sensitivity caused by allergies. The pull-tabs on the cans can be difficult to use, and leftover food needs to be refrigerated. Along with the unpleasant smell, some dogs dislike the gel-like texture.
Pros
Easy to digest
Gentle on sensitive stomachs
Omega oils
Vitamin E
Can be mixed with kibble
Natural ingredients
Recommended by veterinarians
12 pack
Cons
Contains peas
Open cans need to be refrigerated
Pull-tabs on can lids are difficult to use
Some dogs dislike the gel texture
Smells unpleasant
Buyer’s Guide: Finding the Best Dog Food
There are many things to consider before making the final decision on what dog food to purchase for your beloved best friend. The pet food market is a bit of a jungle, to say the least. Not only are there many different options to choose from but there is a ton of conflicting information about what is truly healthy.
Easy to digest
Gentle on sensitive stomachs
Omega oils
Vitamin E
Can be mixed with kibble
Natural ingredients
Recommended by veterinarians
12 pack
- Easy to digest
- Gentle on sensitive stomachs
- Omega oils
- Vitamin E
- Can be mixed with kibble
- Natural ingredients
- Recommended by veterinarians
- 12 pack
Contains peas
Open cans need to be refrigerated
Pull-tabs on can lids are difficult to use
Some dogs dislike the gel texture
Smells unpleasant
- Contains peas
- Open cans need to be refrigerated
- Pull-tabs on can lids are difficult to use
- Some dogs dislike the gel texture
- Smells unpleasant
Since your dog’s health and nutrition are at the top of your list, we’ve included some things to take into consideration before making your choice.
Does Your Dog Need a Special Type of Food?
First and foremost, you need to consider your dog’s specific needs and that goes for each dog you own. Some dogs suffer from food allergies or sensitivities, which will require a diet that does not contain the allergens that bother them. For those with certain health conditions, there may be some dietary modifications needed.
For most healthy dogs, you will have a wider variety of foods to choose from and won’t be required to filter out as many options. If you have a dog that does have certain needs, you will need to weed out the foods that don’t fit the criteria. Always check with your veterinarian regarding your dog’s health and dietary needs surrounding any conditions they have.
Decide Your Preferred Food Type
You have several food types to choose from, all of which have their pros and cons.
Dry Kibble
Dry food is a popular choice among most dog owners and is the most readily available choice in grocery stores and local pet food stores. Dry food stores well and is the most cost-friendly option, but it is higher in carbohydrates and low in moisture. Some dry kibbles will contain bits of freeze-dried food or even tender bites to add flavor and make it more palatable.
Wet or Canned Food
These varieties have an even longer shelf life than dry kibble and contain much more moisture for hydration. It is much more palatable and contains fewer carbohydrates than dry kibble, but it is also more expensive, messy, and creates more trash. A lot of owners opt to feed wet food as a topper for dry kibble to offset the cost of exclusively feeding this variety.
Fresh Food
You also have fresh food diets that can either be bought locally or obtained through subscription services, depending on the brand you choose. Fresh food diets are the healthiest choice, as they contain fewer preservatives and are typically made from top-quality ingredients. Fresh food is also highly palatable and is full of moisture and needed nutrients. This is undoubtedly the most expensive choice of the three and can get quite costly when feeding larger or multiple dogs. Fresh food can also be used as a topper to dry kibble to help provide health benefits but remain friendly to the budget.
Choose an Appropriate Food
Every dog needs to be fed food that is appropriate to its age, size, and overall activity level. What is appropriate for one dog, may not be appropriate for another. Puppies, adults, and seniors all have different nutritional needs, so be sure to get food that works for your dog’s life stage. Some foods are suitable for all life stages, while others are crafted specifically for different stages of life.
Active dogs that expend a lot of energy will have more energy and nutritional requirements than those couch potatoes. Size also plays a factor when determining the right food. If you have a large dog breed, it’s best to look for food that is formulated to fit their needs. The same goes for small dogs, which will need a smaller kibble that is easier to chew.
Check the Ingredients
The ingredient list may not be able to tell you the overall quality of the ingredients, but it does provide a list of everything that is included in the food, which will help you make a more informed decision. This is especially important for dogs that have special dietary needs or suffer from allergies, as you want to avoid potential allergens in the formula.
It’s good to look for foods that offer real meat as the first ingredient to ensure pure animal protein is at the top of the list. It is important to avoid foods that are full of fillers, artificial colors, preservatives or flavors, heavy amounts of by-products, or any other harmful ingredients. A licensed veterinarian will be able to give you information on what types of ingredients to avoid, and what to look for before you make your purchase.
Read the Food’s Label
The dog food label will contain all the information you need to determine what you need to know about a particular food. Labels can be difficult to read, time-consuming, and even misleading, according to the Merck Veterinary Manual. Check out this source that walks you through how to properly read a pet food label so that you aren’t left more confused than when you started.
Dog food labels are required by the United States Food and Drug Administration, or FDA to tell you eight key pieces of information regarding your dogs’ food. Individual states may have some more precise label requirements as well. The eight key pieces of information disclosed by the FDA, include:
Product name
Net weight of the product
Name and address of the manufacturer
Guaranteed analysis
List of ingredients
Intended animal species
Statement of nutritional adequacy
Feeding guidelines
A few years ago, the FDA started an investigation concerning certain diets and the potential link to Canine Dilated Cardiomyopathy, mostly surrounding grain-free diets. 16 dog food brands have been named in the investigation, but none have been recalled, as the investigation is still ongoing. If you have concerns regarding this information, reach out to your veterinarian to discuss whether a grain-free diet is even necessary for your dog.
- Product name
- Net weight of the product
- Name and address of the manufacturer
- Guaranteed analysis
- List of ingredients
- Intended animal species
- Statement of nutritional adequacy
Consider the Cost
You will be buying dog food throughout your dog’s life, so you need to ensure your budget is prepared for the extra expense before ever bringing home a new four-legged family member. It is important not to skimp on quality for a more budget-friendly food, as most low cost foods are packed full of unnecessary ingredients, which could ultimately lead to nutritional deficiencies or other health concerns which can end up being very costly in the long run.
There are plenty of wallet-friendly choices that still offer great quality overall and it’ll be easier to recognize this once you are familiar with ingredient lists and reading the labels. As mentioned, different food types come at different costs with fresh food options being the most expensive. As a general rule, the higher the quality of the diet, the more expensive it will be. Be sure to find something that works for you financially and for your pup’s overall health and nutritional needs.
Talk to Your Veterinarian
Getting advice from your veterinarian is highly recommended when it comes to your dog’s nutrition. In fact, it’s a good idea to check with them before making any dietary changes or transitioning to a new food choice. Your veterinarian is familiar with your dog’s health and will be able to guide you on what you need to look for in terms of dog food.
Conclusion
Overall, the best adult dog food is the Nom Nom Dog Food. It’s packed with high quality nutrition to keep your dog happy and healthy for years to come. A more affordable option is the Blue Buffalo Divine Delights Variety Pack, with a range of flavors to stop fussy dogs from getting bored.
Whether you’re a new dog owner or a seasoned canine friend, knowing which dog food your dog will enjoy the most is a challenge. Hopefully, these reviews will help you choose your dog’s next favorite brand.
- You may also want to read: 6 Best Dog Foods for Weimaraners – Reviews & Top Picks
Featured Image Credit: Pixel-Shot, Shutterstock
