Pet parents like to ask… “What’s the best dry dog food on the market?”

Unfortunately…

Conflicting advice, deceptive marketing and thousands of dry dog food options can make finding the best brands a challenge.

So… we combined the top picks from our own editors… with those of the many pet food designers, nutritionists and veterinarians we’ve interviewed since launching The Dog Food Advisor… back in 2008.

On this page… we’ll share the best dry dog foods on the market. And we’ll answer the most frequently asked questions we get about finding and feeding quality kibbles.

---

The Best Dry Dog Foods
February 2023

Here are The Dog Food Advisor’s best dry dog foods for February 2023.

---

Wellness Complete Health Dry Dog Food

Rating:

Wellness Complete Health Adult Deboned Chicken and Oatmeal is one of 13 dry recipes included in our review of the Wellness Complete Health product line.

• First 5 ingredients: Deboned chicken, chicken meal, oatmeal, ground barley, peas
• Type: Grain-inclusive (oatmeal, barley, brown rice)
• Other recipes: Senior, puppy, large breed, small breed, whitefish and sweet potato, lamb and barley, turkey and oatmeal and more
• Price: $$
• See all 13 available recipes

This Wellness Complete Health formula derives the bulk of its meat protein from chicken and chicken meal. Our dry matter label analysis reveals the product contains 27% protein, 13% fat and 52% estimated carbs… creating a fat-to-protein ratio of about 50%.

One of the best grain-inclusive kibbles on the market. Highly recommended.

Check Current Online Price

Read Our Full Brand Review

---

Instinct Original Grain-Free Dry

Rating:

Instinct Original with Real Beef is one of 5 dry recipes included in our review of the Instinct Original product line.

• First 5 ingredients: Beef, chicken meal, white fish meal, peas, chicken fat
• Type: Grain-free
• Other recipes: Small breed, chicken, duck, rabbit, salmon and more
• Price: $$
• See all 5 available recipes

This Instinct example derives the majority of its animal protein from beef and chicken meal. Our dry matter label analysis reveals the recipe contains 40% protein, 23% fat and 29% estimated carbs… which creates a fat-to-protein ratio of about 57%.

With multiple “flavor” options, Instinct makes an ideal choice for feeding picky eaters. Highly recommended.

Check Current Online Price

Read Our Full Brand Review

---

Jinx Dry Dog Food

Rating:

Salmon and Sweet Potato recipe is one of 4 dry recipes included in our review of the Jinx product line.

• First 5 ingredients: Salmon, pearled barley, ground peas, turkey meal, brown rice
• Type: Grain-inclusive (pearled barley, brown rice)
• Other recipes: Chicken, Salmon, and Grain-Free
• Price: $$$
• See all 4 available recipes

This Jinx recipe derives the bulk of its animal protein from fresh salmon. Dry matter label analysis reveals the recipe contains 30% protein, 16% fat and 46% estimated carbs… creating a fat-to-protein ratio of about 52%.

A fully-balanced, grain-inclusive dog food. Highly recommended.

Check Current Online Price

Read Our Full Brand Review

---

Nature’s Logic Dry Dog Food

Rating:

Nature’s Logic Canine Chicken Meal Feast is one of 11 dry recipes included in our review of the Nature’s Logic product line.

• First 5 ingredients: Chicken meal, millet, chicken fat, pumpkin seed, yeast culture
• Type: Grain-inclusive (millet)
• Other recipes: Venison, beef, pork, rabbit, sardine, turkey, lamb, duck and more
• Price: $$
• See all 9 available recipes

This Nature’s Logic example recipe derives the bulk of its meat protein from chicken meal. Our dry matter label analysis reveals the product contains 40% protein, 17% fat and 36% estimated carbs… yielding a fat-to-protein ratio of about 42%.

Nature’s Logic is one of the few dry brands meeting AAFCO nutrient standards by using live feeding trials. Highly recommended.

Check Current Online Price

Read Our Full Brand Review

---

Taste of the Wild Dry Dog Food

Rating:

High Prairie is one of 9 dry recipes included in our review of the Taste of the Wild product line.

• First 5 ingredients: Buffalo, lamb meal, chicken meal, sweet potatoes, peas
• Type: Grain-free
• Other recipes: Puppy, small breed, salmon, venison and more
• Price: $
• See all 9 available recipes

High Prairie derives the majority of its meat protein from fresh buffalo, as well as both chicken and lamb meals. Our dry matter label analysis reveals the recipe contains 36% protein, 20% fat and 36% estimated carbs… producing a fat-to-protein ratio of about 56%.

Taste of the Wild provides a top-rated, nutrient-balanced formula at an affordable price. Highly recommended.

Check Current Online Price

Read Our Full Brand Review

---

Blue Buffalo Life Protection Dry

Rating:

Blue Buffalo Life Protection Chicken and Rice is one of 21 kibble recipes included in our review of the Blue Buffalo Life Protection product line.

• First 5 ingredients: Deboned chicken, chicken meal, brown rice, barley, oatmeal
• Type: Grain-inclusive (brown rice, barley, oatmeal)
• Other recipes: Puppy, large breed, small breed, senior, lamb, fish and more
• Price: $
• See all 21 available recipes

This Life Protection example derives the majority of its animal protein from chicken and chicken meal. Our dry matter label analysis reveals the recipe contains 27% protein, 16% fat and 50% estimated carbs… creating a fat-to-protein ratio of about 58%.

A top-rated, grain-inclusive kibble. One of The Advisor’s most popular recommendations.

Check Current Online Price

Read Our Full Brand Review

---

Purina Pro Plan Focus Dog Food

Rating:

Pro Plan Large Breed Adult is one of 19 kibbles featured in our review of the Purina Pro Plan Focus product line.

• First 5 ingredients: Chicken, brewers rice, whole grain wheat, corn gluten meal, whole grain corn
• Type: Grain-inclusive (rice, wheat, corn, barley)
• Other recipes: Puppy, small breed, sensitive skin and stomach, senior, weight management and more
• Price: $
• See all 19 available recipes

Focus Large Breed Adult derives the majority of its animal protein from fresh chicken. Our dry matter label analysis reveals the recipe contains 30% protein, 14% fat and 49% estimated carbs… creating a fat-to-protein ratio of about 46%.

Pro Plan is one of the dog food brands most frequently mentioned by breeders and veterinary professionals.

Each recipe has been expertly formulated by a team of board certified veterinary nutritionists.

In addition, the entire Pro Plan product line is designed and manufactured according to rigorous guidelines recommended by the World Small Animal Veterinary Association.

Purina Pro Plan is one of the very best brands you’ll find on this or any list. And it’s easy on the budget, too. Highly recommended.

Check Current Online Price

Read Our Full Brand Review

---

Canidae Grain-Free Pure Dry Dog Food

Rating:

Canidae Pure Real Salmon and Sweet Potato is one of 10 dry kibble recipes included in our review of the Canidae Grain-Free Pure product line.

• First 5 ingredients: Salmon, salmon meal, menhaden fish meal, sweet potatoes, peas
• Type: Grain-free
• Other recipes: Puppy, senior, bison, lamb, duck, small breed, large breed, limited ingredient and more
• Price: $$$
• See all 10 available recipes

This Canidae Grain-Free product derives the majority of its meat protein from fresh salmon, as well as salmon and menhaden fish meals. Our dry matter label analysis reveals the recipe contains 36% protein, 20% fat and 36% estimated carbs… which produces a fat-to-protein ratio of about 56%.

An exceptional, dry recipe, free of corn, wheat or soy. A top recommendation.

Check Current Online Price

Read Our Full Brand Review

---

Orijen Dry Dog Food

Rating:

Orijen Original is one of 9 dry recipes included in our review of the Orijen product line.

• First 5 ingredients: Deboned chicken, deboned turkey, Atlantic flounder, cage-free eggs, whole Atlantic mackerel
• Type: Grain-free
• Other recipes: Puppy, fish, venison, duck, senior and more
• Price: $$$
• See all 9 available recipes

This Orijen product derives the majority of its animal protein from chicken, turkey and fish. Our dry matter label analysis reveals the recipe contains 43% protein, 21% fat and 28% estimated carbs… which produces a fat-to-protein ratio of about 47%.

A meat-rich, dry dog food made by a quality company… known for its superior, biologically appropriate designs. Not cheap… but worthy of serious consideration.

Check Current Online Price

Read Our Full Brand Review

---

Diamond Naturals Dry Kibble

Rating:

Diamond Naturals Extreme Athlete is one of 13 kibble recipes included in our review of the Diamond Naturals product line.

• First 5 ingredients: Chicken meal, chicken, ground white rice, chicken fat, cracked pearled barley
• Type: Grain-inclusive (ground white rice, cracked pearled barley)
• Other recipes: Large breed, small breed, puppy, senior, lamb, beef and more
• Price: $
• See all 13 available recipes

This Diamond Naturals formula derives most of its animal protein from chicken meal and fresh chicken. Our dry matter label analysis reveals the recipe contains 36% protein, 28% fat and 29% estimated carbs… which yields a fat-to-protein ratio of about 78%.

Diamond Naturals was recently selected as one of our most affordable dog foods. Highly recommended.

Check Current Online Price

Read Our Full Brand Review

---

Nulo Freestyle Dry Dog Food

Rating:

Nulo Freestyle Adult Turkey and Sweet Potato is one of 9 dry kibble recipes included in our review of the Nulo Freestyle product line.

• First 5 ingredients: Deboned turkey, turkey meal, salmon meal, chickpeas, chicken fat
• Type: Grain-free
• Other recipes: Salmon, trout, lamb, cod, small breed, large breed, puppy, senior and more
• Price: $$$
• See all 9 available recipes

This Nulo Freestyle recipe derives the bulk of its meat protein from turkey, as well as turkey and salmon meals. Our dry matter label analysis reveals the recipe contains 37% protein, 20% fat and 35% estimated carbs… which produces a fat-to-protein ratio of about 55%.

A superior, grain-free kibble, offering balanced nutrition… for a wide range of dogs. Recommended with confidence.

Check Current Online Price

Read Our Full Brand Review

---

Nutro Ultra Dry Dog Food

Rating:

Nutro Ultra Adult is one of 9 dry recipes included in our review of the Nutro Ultra product line.

• First 5 ingredients: Chicken, chicken meal, whole grain sorghum, whole grain barley, whole grain oats
• Type: Grain-inclusive (sorghum, barley, whole grain oats)
• Other recipes: Beef, duck, lamb, fish, small breed, large breed, puppy, senior and more
• Price: $$
• See all 9 available recipes

This Nutro formula derives most of its meat protein from chicken and chicken meal. Our dry matter label analysis reveals the recipe contains 24% protein, 15% fat and 53% estimated carbs… which creates a fat-to-protein ratio of about 63%.

Available in a wide range of flavor and recipe options. One of our top value picks.

Check Current Online Price

Read Our Full Brand Review

---

Go! Carnivore Dry Dog Food

Rating:

Go! Carnivore Chicken, Turkey and Duck Adult is one of 5 kibble recipes included in our review of the Go! Carnivore product line.

• First 5 ingredients: Chicken meal, turkey meal, salmon meal, de-boned chicken, de-boned turkey
• Type: Grain-free
• Other recipes: Salmon, turkey, duck, cod, puppy and more
• Price: $$
• See all 5 available recipes

This Go! Carnivore formula derives the majority of its animal protein from chicken, turkey and salmon meals, as well both chicken and turkey. Our dry matter label analysis reveals the recipe contains 38% protein, 18% fat and 36% estimated carbs… resulting in a fat-to-protein ratio of about 47%.

Free of GMO (genetically modified) ingredients and loaded with meat. A rare find. Highly recommended.

Check Current Online Price

Read Our Full Brand Review

---

Eagle Pack Dry Dog Food

Rating:

Eagle Pack Power Adult is one of 7 dry kibble recipes included in our review of the Eagle Pack product line.

• First 5 ingredients: Chicken meal, pork meal, ground brown rice, peas, chicken fat
• Type: Grain-inclusive (ground brown rice, dehulled barley)
• Other recipes: Puppy, small breed, large and giant breed, lamb, pork and more
• Price: $
• See all 7 available recipes

This Eagle Pack recipe derives the bulk of its meat protein from chicken and pork meals. Our dry matter label analysis reveals the recipe contains 33% protein, 21% fat and 38% estimated carbs… yielding a fat-to-protein ratio of about 63%.

A superior kibble at an affordable price. Made by the same trusted company that also produces Wellness. Exceptional value. Highly recommended.

Check Current Online Price

Read Our Full Brand Review

---

Wellness Core Dry Dog Food

Rating:

Wellness Core Original is one of 12 dry recipes included in our review of the Wellness Core product line.

• First 5 ingredients: Deboned turkey, turkey meal, chicken meal, peas, potatoes
• Type: Grain-free
• Other recipes: Puppy, large breed, small breed, duck, rabbit, whitefish, senior and more
• Price: $$
• See all 12 available recipes

This Wellness Core formula derives the bulk of its animal protein from fresh turkey, as well as turkey and chicken meals. Our dry matter label analysis reveals the recipe contains 38% protein, 18% fat and 36% estimated carbs… producing a fat-to-protein ratio of about 47%.

Core has appeared on our Best Grain-Free Dog Foods list for more than 10 years. Enthusiastically recommended.

Check Current Online Price

Read more  Are You Ready to Get a Dog? 7 Cons of Having a Dog

Read Our Full Brand Review

---

Whole Earth Farms Dry Dog Food

Rating:

Whole Earth Farms Adult recipe is one of 6 kibble recipes included in our review of the Whole Earth Farms product line.

• First 5 ingredients: Chicken, chicken meal, rice, barley, pork meal
• Type: Grain-inclusive (rice, barley)
• Other recipes: Small breed, turkey, salmon, pork, beef, puppy and more
• Price: $
• See both available recipes

This Whole Earth Farms product derives the bulk of its meat protein from fresh chicken and chicken meal. Our dry matter label analysis reveals the recipe contains 28% protein, 16% fat and 48% estimated carbs… which results in a fat-to-protein ratio of about 56%.

A quality yet affordable, grain-inclusive kibble made by Merrick. Highly recommended.

Check Current Online Price

Read Our Full Brand Review

---

Holistic Select Grain-Free Dry Dog Food

Rating:

Holistic Select Adult and Puppy Health is one of 11 kibble recipes included in our review of the Holistic Select Grain-Free product line.

• First 5 ingredients: Salmon, anchovy and sardine meal, potatoes, peas, menhaden fish meal
• Type: Grain-free
• Other recipes: Puppy, small breed, large breed, senior, salmon, turkey, lamb and more
• Price: $$
• See all 11 available recipes

This Holistic Select formula derives most of its meat protein from fresh salmon, as well as anchovy and sardine meal. Our dry matter label analysis reveals the recipe contains 32% protein, 16% fat and 44% estimated carbs… producing a fat-to-protein ratio of about 48%.

An exceptional grain-free dog food offering numerous recipe and flavor options. Highly recommended.

Check Current Online Price

Read Our Full Brand Review

---

Dr. Tim’s Dry Dog Food

Rating:

Dr. Tim’s Pursuit Active Dog Formula is one of 8 dry kibble recipes included in our review of the Dr. Tim’s product line.

• First 5 ingredients: Chicken meal, brown rice, chicken fat, whole oat groats, dried beet pulp
• Type: Grain-inclusive (brown rice, oat groats)
• Other recipes: Active formula for sporting dogs, salmon, pork, chicken and more)
• Price: $$
• See all 8 available recipes

This Dr. Tim’s product derives the bulk of its animal protein from chicken meal. Our dry matter label analysis reveals the recipe contains 33% protein, 22% fat and 36% estimated carbs… creating a fat-to-protein ratio of about 67%.

One of the best-kept secrets in the dry kibble market. And it’s one of our top picks, especially for sporting dogs. Highly recommended.

Check Current Online Price

Read Our Full Brand Review

---

Iams Proactive Health Dry Dog Food

Rating:

Iams Lamb and Rice Adult formula is one of 12 dry recipes included in our review of the Iams Proactive Health product line.

• First 5 ingredients: Lamb, chicken by-product meal, brewers rice, ground whole grain barley, ground whole grain corn
• Type: Grain-inclusive (rice, barley, sorghum)
• Other recipes: Large breed, small breed, puppy, chicken, turkey, senior weight management and more
• Price: $
• See all 12 available recipes

Iams Lamb and Rice derives a large portion of its animal protein from fresh lamb. Our dry matter label analysis reveals the recipe contains 28% protein, 16% fat and 49% estimated carbs… which creates a fat-to-protein ratio of about 56%.

An affordable, “classic” design offering multiple recipe options. A top selection popular with veterinarians and professional breeders. Highly recommended.

Check Current Online Price

Read Our Full Brand Review

---

Victor Classic Dry Dog Food

Rating:

Victor Hi-Pro Plus is one of 5 kibble recipes included in our review of the Victor Classic product line.

• First 5 ingredients: Beef meal, grain sorghum, chicken fat, pork meal, chicken meal
• Type: Grain-inclusive (grain sorghum, whole grain millet)
• Other recipes: Chicken, puppy, active sporting dog formula and more
• Price: $
• See all 5 available recipes

Victor Hi-Pro Plus derives the bulk of its meat protein from beef meal. Our dry matter label analysis reveals the recipe contains 33% protein, 22% fat and 37% estimated carbs… which creates a fat-to-protein ratio of about 67%.

An affordable, all life stages kibble… recently added to our budget-friendly dog foods list. Highly recommended.

Check Current Online Price

Read Our Full Brand Review

---

Annamaet Dry Dog Food

Rating:

Annamaet Ultra is one of 8 kibble recipes included in our review of the Annamaet product line.

• First 5 ingredients: Chicken meal, brown rice, chicken fat, whole dry eggs, herring meal
• Type: Grain-inclusive (Brown rice, millet)
• Other recipes: Puppies, salmon, small breed, senior, weight loss and more
• Price: $$
• See all 8 available recipes

This Annamaet kibble derives most of its meat protein from chicken meal. Our dry matter label analysis reveals the recipe contains 36% protein, 22% fat and 34% estimated carbs… which produces a fat-to-protein ratio of about 63%.

Especially popular with sporting dog professionals. Enthusiastically recommended.

Check Current Online Price

Read Our Full Brand Review

---

Merrick Classic Healthy Grains Dry

Rating:

Real Beef and Brown Rice is one of 13 recipes included in our review of the Merrick Classic dry product line.

• First 5 ingredients: Deboned beef, pork meal, brown rice, barley, oatmeal
• Type: Grain-inclusive (brown rice, barley, oatmeal)

Price: $$

Merrick Classic Healthy Grains derives the bulk of its animal protein from fresh deboned beef and pork meal. Dry matter label analysis reveals the recipe contains 29% protein, 17% fat and 46% estimated carbs… resulting in a fat-to-protein ratio of about 58%.

This fully balanced formula contains zinc amino acid complex and 4 other chelated minerals, superior nutritional supplements typically found in higher quality dog foods. Reasonably priced. Highly recommended.

Check Current Online Price

Read Our Full Brand Review

---

---

A Final Word

The Dog Food Advisor does not accept money, gifts, samples or other incentives in exchange for special consideration in preparing our reviews.

However, we do receive a referral fee from online retailers (like Chewy or Amazon) and from sellers of perishable pet food when readers click over to their websites from ours. This helps cover the cost of operation of our free blog. Thanks for your support.

For more information, please visit our Disclaimer and Disclosure page.

References

---

— Update: 05-03-2023 — cohaitungchi.com found an additional article 8 best dog food brands to consider for a healthy and balanced diet in 2023 from the website www.nbcnews.com for the keyword what is the best food to feed my dog.

In addition to providing a cozy bed and plenty of toys, feeding your dog a nutritious diet is one of the many responsibilities that come with being a pet parent. But selecting the right food for your pup is one of the most important decisions you can make as a pet owner: Experts told us the right food can not only lead to better absorption and digestion but also give your dog distinct health advantages.

“Commercially processed canned or kibble foods are formulated to meet dogs’ nutritional needs for proteins, fats, carbohydrates, vitamins and minerals — they’re convenient, consistent and readily available, and they undergo a process of quality control and inspection that is meant to catch any contaminants or pathogens before they affect pets or people,” explained Dr. Lori Teller, a board-certified veterinarian and president of the American Veterinary Medical Association.

LEARN MORE How to determine the best food for your dog | Wet versus dry food | Is a grain-free formula better for dogs? | Are raw food diets and supplements necessary?

As the number of dog-owning households grows in the U.S., it comes as no surprise that Americans are spending more on their furry friends’ diet. According to a recent survey by the American Pet Products Association, people spent upwards of $50 billion on food and treats for their pets in 2021 (up from $38 billion in 2020), with dog owners spending an average of $287 on food annually. Major pet supply retailers, like Chewy and Petco, have also seen a higher demand for premium dog food in the past year despite inflation concerns causing decreased spending on other essentials, like leashes and toys.

To help you decide what’s right for your dog, we consulted veterinarians and animal nutrition experts on what to keep in mind when shopping for the best dog food. We also compiled some highly rated options based on their guidance.

Best dog food to consider

In line with our experts’ advice, all of the following highly rated dog foods — including dry kibble and canned wet food — meet or exceed the Association of Animal Feed Controls Officials (AAFCO) nutritional standards. They also come from brands that have a team of veterinary nutritionists on staff to regulate the use of high-quality ingredients, and each brand provides a feed guide on its packaging to help you determine the appropriate portions for your dog’s weight and size. All of the brands also offer high-calorie options for puppies and easily digestible kibble sizes for various sized dogs.

Best overall dry dog food: Royal Canin

Royal Canin Size Health Nutrition Small Adult Formula Dog Dry Food

Royal Canin offers some of the most diverse dog food options on the market — the brand makes both dry and wet food for a variety of dog sizes, breeds and dietary restrictions, including food sensitivities and gastrointestinal issues. I feed my 4-year-old Havachon, Bella, Royal Canin’s small-breed kibble — formulated for small dogs from 10 months old to 8 years that weigh 9 pounds to 22 pounds — after it was recommended by my veterinarian. Select’s manager of editorial operations Shari Uyehara said she also feeds her dog Loki, a 1-year-old cavalier King Charles spaniel, the same formula after it was recommended by Loki’s breeder. I’ve noticed that Bella prefers this brand over others, which she would often leave half-eaten. Royal Canin also offers its dry food formula for medium and large breeds, as well as a puppy formula.

Best subscription dog food: The Farmer’s Dog

The Farmer’s Dog Subscription Dog Food

There are several subscription home-delivery services for dog food, which regularly send bags of fresh food directly to your door. Dr. Judy Morgan, a veterinarian who specializes in integrative care, recommended The Farmer’s Dog, which she calls “TV dinners for dogs” due to their palatability. Select’s social editor Sadhana Daruvuri said she feeds The Farmer’s Dog to her 11-month-old Maltipoo, Bandit, and he loves it. “I knew friends who tried it, and their dogs were all big fans, so I did a trial with Bandit and it was obvious he liked it way more than his kibble,” she said. If you’re on a budget and have a large dog, this might not be a cost-effective option for you, but it may be more beneficial for owners of smaller dogs, Morgan noted.

Best dog food for puppies: Hill’s Science Diet

Hill’s Science Diet Puppy Small Bites Dry Dog Food

Hill’s Science Diet’s dog food for puppies is designed for dogs up to 1 year old and is packaged in a small, easy-to-digest kibble, according to the brand. The formula contains natural DHA from fish oil that works to support healthy brain and eye development, as well as a vitamin E and vitamin C blend that helps support a healthy immune system in puppies, Hill’s Science Diet says. The food comes in a 4.5- or 15.5-pound bag, and the brand also offers a canned puppy formula, which our experts said can be great to mix into your dog’s kibble.

Best dog food for large breeds: Purina

Purina Pro Plan Adult Large Dry Dog Food

Purina says it employs several veterinary nutritionists to help determine healthy formulations and ingredients. The brand’s highly rated Pro Plan dog food is geared toward dogs of different sizes and in all stages of life, including large-breed adults and puppies, Purina says. The Purina Pro Plan formula contains natural prebiotic fiber for digestive health, and omega-6 fatty acids and vitamin A for skin and coat health, according to the brand. Select’s associate updates editor Zoe Malin said her large 100-pound yellow lab Chance eats the weight-management dry kibble from the brand, which Purina says contains a more optimized protein-to-fat ratio, since he’s 9 years old and less active now.

Best frozen dog food: Just Food For Dogs

Just Food For Dogs Fish & Sweet Potato

Just Food For Dogs is designed to be high in protein and low in calorie count, so it can be beneficial for dogs who may be overweight or don’t get regular exercise, according to the brand. It offers a variety of meal options that are made up of locally sourced produce and only one source of protein for a limited ingredients diet.

This sweet potato and fish option provides a balanced diet for dogs with sensitive stomachs or those in need of a novel protein due to allergies, Just Food For Dogs says. The brand offers two types of food: Fresh Frozen, which has no preservatives and can be thawed and served, and Pantry Fresh, which is shelf-stable for up to two years and doesn’t require refrigeration, according to the brand.

Best dog food for sensitive stomachs: Purina

Purina Pro Plan Adult Sensitive Skin & Stomach Dry Dog Food

Some dogs are sensitive to certain food ingredients, which can cause excessive itching, loose stools, occasional vomiting and other symptoms. Investing in a dog food formulated for dogs with sensitive stomachs and skin can help minimize these issues. This option from Purina is crafted without corn, wheat or soy to make it more easily digestible for dogs with an intolerance to these ingredients. However, experts told us these types of ingredients should only be avoided if your dog has an intolerance, as they are full of healthy vitamins, minerals and carbohydrates. To help your dog maintain a complete and balanced diet, the brand says the formula contains high-protein salmon, probiotics and prebiotic fiber for digestive and immune health and omega-6 fatty acids to help support a healthy skin and coat.

Best poultry-free dog food: Merrick

Merrick Grain Free Real Salmon & Sweet Potato Dry Dog Food

Former Select editor Morgan Greenwald said she gives Merrick’s salmon and sweet potato kibble to her 1-year-old pit bull mix, Suzie, since she can’t tolerate some other types of protein. “She gobbles it down and she does great with it — she has a sensitive tummy and her vet said we should avoid chicken and turkey, so I stick to salmon,” Greenwald said, adding that she likes the sweet potato in the formula “because it’s good for dogs’ digestion.”

The experts we spoke to agree: Studies show that proteins like beef and chicken are among the most reported causes of allergies in dogs, so it’s important to look out for common signs of allergies — like excessive itching and vomiting — to figure out what works best for them, said Dr. Joe Wakshlag, professor of clinical nutrition and sports medicine and rehabilitation at Cornell College of Veterinary Medicine. However, most dogs don’t usually experience these types of allergies, so you don’t need to avoid chicken and turkey unless you think your dog may have an allergy or intolerance.

Best wet dog food: Royal Canin

Royal Canin Adult Gastrointestinal Canned Dog Food

If you prefer to incorporate canned food into your dog’s meals, Royal Canin offers a variety of wet food options tested by veterinary nutritionists that can help you provide them with a little more diversity at dinnertime. Though it’s on the pricier side, this low-fat option can be good for adult dogs with gastrointestinal issues or digestive sensitivities, according to the brand. The formula contains prebiotics to help maintain good bacteria in the gut, a blend of dietary fibers that can promote healthy digestion and omega-3 fatty acids from fish oil to help soothe the GI tract, Royal Canin says.

How to determine the best food for your dog

The two biggest factors that determine whether your dog’s food is good for their health is whether it’s nutritionally complete and balanced and whether you’re giving your dog the right proportions based on their size and weight. “Overall, when selecting your pet’s food, it is important to consider the information on the label and information beyond the label,” said Dr. Megan Shepherd, a board-certified veterinary nutritionist and owner of Veterinary Clinical Nutrition, PLLC.

On the label, the nutrition adequacy — or the AAFCO statement — indicates the species and life stage the food is formulated for and how it’s substantiated, either by formulation or feeding tests. But what isn’t on the label can be equally as important. The Global Nutrition Guidelines set by the World Small Animal Veterinary Association (WSAVA) recommend investigating the brand to determine the people involved in the product’s formulation and manufacturing and whether the company routinely analyzes its finished products for nutrient content, pathogens and other items that don’t belong in dog food.

“Do they have veterinarians on staff or, more specifically, do they have veterinary nutritionists who are board-certified in that field? Brands that provide the best diets also invest in research,” said Dr. Brian Roberts, a board-certified veterinarian and regional medical director in the Mid-Atlantic region with VCA Animal Hospitals.

Below, we break down some key considerations experts suggest when shopping for high-quality dog food.

Meeting AAFCO nutrition standards

Our experts all agreed that any good dog food will meet the AAFCO nutrition standards. “You can determine if a pet food meets your pet’s nutritional needs by looking at the nutritional adequacy statement on the label — if this statement includes the phrase ‘complete and balanced,’ then the product is intended to be fed as a pet’s sole diet and should be nutritionally balanced,” Roberts said.

“We have the AAFCO to make sure that everything you feed [your dog] is a form of dog food that’s nutritionally complete,” said Wakshlag. You should be able to find the statement — which the FDA considers one of the most important aspects of a dog or cat food label — on the back label (in small font).

While AAFCO has feed control officials that develop standards, definitions and policies for the sale and distribution of pet food, among other animal feeds, the voluntary membership association doesn’t regulate, test, approve or certify pet food, so there’s no such thing as an “AAFCO approved” brand or product.

Ingredients and palatability

Finding the best food for your dog is much less about the specific ingredients than you may think. Dr. Richard Hill, a board-certified veterinary nutritionist and associate professor at the University of Florida Department of Small Animal Clinical Sciences, noted dog owners should focus on the nutrients their companion is getting from those ingredients instead.

However, the ingredient list can give you an idea of what nutrients your dog can get from their meal. The AAFCO states that an ingredient list is required to display all ingredients from highest amount to least amount by weight, which means the first three listed are the most critical — this will help you determine if the formula is vegetable-based with things like corn and rice or meat-based with chicken, fish or lamb, experts told us.

AAFCO has developed several safety standards for ingredients used in pet food, and the association goes into depth about common pet food labels.

• Organic food needs to follow production and handling requirements set by the USDA’s National Organic Program — which regulates all organic crops, livestock and agricultural products — to be recognized by the association.
• Human-grade has no real definition in any animal feed regulations because very few pet food products can be officially considered edible by humans, AAFCO says.
• Natural food has to be derived solely from plant, animal or mined sources and cannot be produced by a chemically synthetic process (although ingredients can contain trace amounts of chemically synthetic compounds and still be considered natural).

“Some say natural ingredients like whole chicken are better than something processed like chicken meal; however, both are from the same source — chicken meal is just dehydrated chicken,” Roberts noted.

There are some ingredients that you should avoid, though — the main one that’s commonly seen in commercial pet food is garlic powder. Garlic is a palatant, which means it’s designed to make the food taste better, according to Shepherd — however, it can be dangerous. “While the amount of garlic in pet food and treats may be below the level that could cause anemia, garlic still causes red blood cell oxidation — I recommend avoiding products that contain garlic powder,” she said.

Nutritional value and proportions

To make sure you’re giving your dog the appropriate nutrients and proportions, Shepherd recommended first checking the food’s energy density — which is shown as kcal (calories) per cup, can or ounce, similar to the nutritional facts on human foods — and its feeding guidelines. Once that’s determined, you can keep an eye on your pet’s weight with the Body Condition Score, which is a visual scale that evaluates the amount of fat on key parts of the dog’s body (a 4 or 5 score is ideal).

Unfortunately, the No. 1 nutritional disease in dogs is obesity and, in some breeds, this can take as much as two years off their lifespan, according to Hill. A lot of obesity problems in dogs come down to the owner’s inability to understand their dog’s calorie intake. “We just pay attention to what’s on the side of the bag and those recommendations are pretty much for the normal, active dog — a lot of dogs just aren’t normal and active,” Wakshlag said. “That’s one thing to consider that’ll help your dog live longer: It’s not necessarily about what you’re feeding them, it’s how much you’re feeding them,” Hill added.

Your dog’s size, weight and life stage

Generally, your dog’s food should match their life stage. For example, you should feed your puppy food that has the puppy label until they reach their adult body weight — small breeds can switch to adult food at seven to nine months, while bigger breeds typically switch at 12 to 14 months, according to the American Kennel Club.

“Puppy food is appropriate for adult dogs only if the adult dog will not become overweight on a higher calorie food,” Shepherd noted. When it comes to the later stages of your dog’s life, if your senior dog is healthy and eating a nutritionally balanced diet, there is no need to change their food, according to Tufts University Cummings School of Veterinary Medicine.

You’ll often see certain dog foods labeled for small, medium and large breeds — these labels mostly deal with the size of the kibble and whether it’s easy for them to ingest. Some brands like Royal Canin offer breed-specific formulas, which can help certain breeds’ needs. “Manufacturers that follow nutritional science have developed diets with ingredient content for specific classes of breeds who are predisposed to certain problems. Many large and giant breeds can develop joint problems in life — some of which are linked to certain ingredients — and diets labeled ‘giant breed’ take this into consideration,” Roberts said.

Wakshlag suggested being mindful of whether the formulas are actually beneficial or just marketing tactics, noting that you should double-check the ingredients list and nutritional content to make sure the food is actually serving its purpose for your breed.

Wet versus dry food: What’s the difference?

The main difference between dry food and canned dog food is its water content. “Kibble is 10% water, [while] canned food is upwards of 70% water,” Roberts said. If both products have the same ingredients and only the water content differs, he noted it’s okay to mix the wet food with your dog’s dry kibble, especially if they often get picky about their food or need an extra boost of hydration. You can also add fresh dog-safe vegetables and fruits to their meals (or as treats) to add nutritional value without adding the calories (as long as they’re still getting their normal kibble), Wakshlag said.

Dry food is also more economical and typically much more stable if it’s stored in its original container in a dry location compared to wet food, which perishes at room temperature after opening, according to Shepherd. (For food safety purposes, Hill recommended storing your dog’s kibble in a cool, dry environment to prevent it from going bad and completely cleaning out the bag or reusable container before putting new kibble on top.)

Shepherd added that a sole wet food diet can be helpful for dogs who can no longer chew kibble due to dental disease or dogs who may benefit from a higher moisture diet due to health conditions, like chronic recurrent urinary issues.

Is a grain-free formula better for dogs?

A grain-free formula is made without wheat, barley, rye and corn, and it’s commonly fed to dogs with a gluten intolerance. However, a grain-free diet isn’t better for your dog — and feeding grain-free kibble to your dog can sometimes prevent them from getting their appropriate daily nutritional intake.

“Although often seen in humans, actual cases of true gluten intolerance in dogs and cats are quite rare,” said Roberts, adding that the aforementioned ingredients aren’t just filler ingredients. “Carbohydrates — and corn especially — provide calories, extra fiber for better digestion, important vitamins and minerals and antioxidants,” he said. Hill echoed the importance of carbs in your dog’s diet: “There’s no reason why animals shouldn’t consume a reasonable amount of carbohydrates — [they’re] okay in moderation.” Plus, grain-free foods will usually use other sources of carbohydrates in place of grain — including potatoes and legumes — so the formula will very rarely be low in carbs despite the brand’s marketing, Hill explained.

Research has found an association between some grain-free diets and dilated cardiomyopathy in some dogs, but the cause for the association is still under investigation by the FDA. “We don’t know if there are ingredients to avoid or if it is due to an overall quality control issue,” Shepherd said. Wakshlag noted that it may not be the grain-free foods that are causing these issues, but rather the dogs themselves may be predisposed.

Are raw food diets and supplements necessary?

Typical dog food, whether it’s basic dry kibble or a combination of kibble with wet food, is specifically designed to meet your dog’s nutritional needs. Some dog owners will feed their dogs a raw food diet — which can be homemade, freeze-dried and dehydrated — and this typically consists of everything from raw meat and eggs to dog-safe fruits and vegetables. But our experts advised against it: “The AVMA discourages feeding dogs any animal-source protein that has not first been subjected to a process to eliminate pathogens because of the risk of illness to cats and dogs as well as humans,” Teller said.

Raw meat-based diets can also produce a higher risk of microbial pathogens, antibiotic resistance genes and other anti-nutritional factors, according to Shepherd. This also goes for freeze-dried meat products that typically get mixed in with kibble as “boosters” — “they should be considered raw as freeze-drying does not eliminate pathogens,” Shepherd said. And if your pet is eating a complete and balanced commercially available pet food, supplements are not recommended unless specifically prescribed by your veterinarian, Teller noted.

Catch up on Select’s in-depth coverage of personal finance, tech and tools, wellness and more, and follow us on Facebook, Instagram and Twitter to stay up to date.

---

— Update: 18-03-2023 — cohaitungchi.com found an additional article What should I feed my dog? from the website www.rspcapetinsurance.org.au for the keyword what is the best food to feed my dog.

There are a number of potential diets for dogs, but it can be hard to determine which one is best for your four-legged friend. To help you make an informed decision, keep these factors in mind when deciding what to feed your dog.

What dogs eat

It’s important to remember all dogs are individuals, and what diet might be fine for your friend’s dog may be completely inappropriate for your dog. When it comes to a daily diet for your dog, it’s important to consult with your vet.

Domesticated dogs are largely carnivores that eat some omnivorous foods. Dr Leigh from Your Vet Online advises that it is important to ensure your dog’s food is both complete and balanced for its stage of life, and if it has any medical issues.

It is entirely acceptable to feed your dog a pure kibble diet. Or you can mix their diet up with some cooked or raw meat, fish, vegetables and rice.

Many owners like to feed a raw meat diet to their dogs, and while this can suit some dogs very well, there are some important considerations you need to be aware of. Experienced vet Dr Leigh Davidson suggests the following.

• Choose human-grade meat as some pet meat and bone products will contain preservatives that can be bad for your dog’s health.
• Practice impeccable food hygiene as the risk of both you and your dog getting a food-borne bacterial infection such as campylobacter or salmonella is high.
• Have a veterinary nutritionist formulate the diet for you. Many raw diets are not balanced appropriately for stage of life or medical conditions.

A small amount of cooked meat such as boiled chicken or lamb is an option for dogs to eat, but avoid cooked bones or toxic substances such as onion sauces that may be present on the meat.

Tinned sardines, tinned tuna, and tinned salmon in spring water can be fed as an occasional treat to your dog, but always check for fish bones first.

Don’t be scared to bulk out your dog’s meal with cooked pumpkin or raw grated carrot. According to Dr Leigh, many dogs lack enough fibre in their diet, and the addition of cooked pumpkin or grated carrot can improve their bowel health.

Be careful to make sure your dog isn’t consuming the whole bone as this can lead to constipation.

Generally, one to two bones a week is sufficient to help remove plaque from teeth. Remember, the bone should be large enough that the dog can’t fit it in its mouth whole, and they should be raw – cooked bone can splinter, which can cause internal damage or obstruct the intestine, both of which can be fatal.

For more information on how to feed your dog bones, visit the RSPCA Australia knowledge base.

How much food your dog needs

The amount of food your dog needs will largely depend on the size, breed and age of your dog, as well as how regularly it exercises. The key is to ensure you don’t overfeed or underfeed your dog. If ever you’re unsure, ask your vet to assess your dog’s diet and nutrition, and the condition of its body and overall health.

Always ensure your dog is well hydrated. This means making sure their water bowl is filled up at all times and is changed daily, so they can help themselves to water whenever they need or want.

When assessing your dog’s size and weight, it is far more important to look at their body shape than weight. You want your dog to be lean, which means you should be able to feel their ribs when you run your fingers firmly over their side and see a defined waist. If this isn’t possible, it’s diet time. Obesity in dogs is linked to decreased longevity and diseases such as osteoarthritis, and it is totally preventable.

Image supplied by Hill’s Prescription Diet ~ Clinical Nutrition to Improve Quality of Life

Food in relation to your dog’s age

8–16 weeks

This is the age when many pups will enter their new home. It’s important to not make huge diet changes at this time as you might inadvertently cause a stomach upset.

Many breeders will tell you what they have been feeding your dog. Ideally, you will continue with this, and introduce the diet you wish to feed them in small incremental stages over a few weeks until you are feeding your pup your preferred diet completely.

The best food to feed is a high quality commercial kibble designed for puppies. This ensures all the nutrients your puppy needs for growth and development are present.

You can add cooked meats and vegetables or rice as you wish; however, the main diet needs to be the commercially balanced kibble.

Raw diets are not recommended for very young pups as they don’t have the immune system development to cope with a high bacterial load. It is also very difficult to balance a raw diet for growing puppies.

Puppies have a high nutritional demand and can’t go for long without food. It’s very important to feed small meals regularly.

16+ weeks

At the 16-week mark, feel free to introduce some raw meaty bones gradually. It’s around this time that permanent teeth are erupting, so this encourages them to chew actively on something other than your shoes or couch (it won’t affect or benefit teeth health at all). For puppies, one bone a week is generally enough; and remember, the meatier – the better.

Don’t be alarmed if your puppy becomes possessive over its food when it’s eating. Always discourage children from getting too close to them when they’re eating, and be aware they may growl or snap at you if you attempt to take the food away. You can prevent the development of food guarding by handfeeding your pup in the early stages. If your pup already guards, please seek help from a veterinarian.

When you’re introducing a new food to your pup, keep an eye on it at all times for any signs of illness or distress. Like humans, dogs can have intolerances or be allergic to things, or a certain food simply may not agree with your pup. Note down what it is you fed your puppy if a reaction or illness occurs and pop that on the no-feed list.

As your pup gets older, you can gradually reduce the number of feeds to twice per day. Try to ensure you aren’t overfeeding or underfeeding your dog. It can be tricky as most people will assume bigger breeds need more to eat; however, this isn’t always the case. Overfeeding your puppy can lead to health issues such as musculoskeletal problems later in its life.

Adult dogs

Adult dogs should be fed either once or twice a day. Use a high-quality commercial dog food, making sure it’s appropriate for the life stage and health status of your dog.

Small or medium breed dogs are generally deemed to be ’adults’ from 12 months of age, whereas your larger breed dogs take a little longer and don’t really become ‘adults’ until 18–24 months.

Check with your veterinarian when to change over from puppy-appropriate food to adult-appropriate food.

The same feeding guidelines apply to adult dogs. Ensure the diet you choose is complete and balanced. You can add meat (cooked or raw), and vegetables or fish for variety. Choose large, raw, meaty bones. Most importantly, don’t over feed.

Senior dogs

For senior dogs, the need to keep tabs on their health is crucial. Many older dogs have chronic health issues that can be affected or improved by the diet you feed.

For some senior dogs, frequent smaller meals will keep them happy and satisfied. For others, it’s about keeping things the same as before. Some senior dogs may need more fibre, protein or other nutrients to ensure their bodies are taken care of. Speak to your veterinarian about your dog’s specific needs.

Keep certain foods out of reach

When it comes to your pets, not everything people eat is safe for them. It’s important to know that while this list is not comprehensive, these are the most common household foods that you’ll need to protect your pup from.

Chocolate

While dogs love the smell of chocolate, it’s toxic for them, and should never be fed to them.

Onions and garlic

Onions are very toxic to dogs. They cause oxidative damage to the red blood cells causing them to rupture leading to anaemia.

Citrus

The citric acid found in fruits such as grapefruit, lemon, lime and orange, can cause diarrhoea, vomiting and at the very worst end of the scale, depression of the central nervous system.

Milk and lactose

Some dogs may be lactose intolerant, resulting in stomach upsets like vomiting or diarrhoea. If your dog reacts strongly to milk products, it’s best to avoid them.

Raw yeast dough

While your dog can have small bits of bread, raw dough is definitely a no-no. As the yeast rises, it can cause gas in the dog’s digestive system, which is painful and may potentially rupture its stomach or cause gastric dilation and volvulus.

Fatty foods

If you’re looking at maintaining a healthy weight for your dog, sweet and fatty foods should be avoided. Also, fatty foods can lead to illnesses such as pancreatitis.

Salty foods

Salt is an essential component to your dog’s diet helping muscle and nerve function. However, some dogs with chronic disease such as kidney, heart or liver problems may need to watch their salt consumption. It is always important to get advice from your vet regarding the diet of your pet.

If your dog snacks on something it shouldn’t, pet insurance is one way you can ensure they get the professional help they need along with a financial helping hand for vet bills. RSPCA Pet Insurance for dogs is affordable and flexible, with first year of premiums helping support the RSPCA.

---

— Update: 22-03-2023 — cohaitungchi.com found an additional article 10 Superfoods to Share With Your Dog from the website www.thewildest.com for the keyword what is the best food to feed my dog.

You’ve heard about “superfoods” for humans (lookin’ at you, salmon and blueberries). But what makes a food  “super” for dogs? Canine superfoods deliver the maximum amount of nutrients with minimum calories. And as it turns out, lots of superfoods for dogs are good for humans, too. 

The nutrient-packed picks below will help your dog (and you) fight disease, boost energy, and maintain good health in general. They make great additions to your dog’s diet — whether you feed them packaged dog food or home-cooked meals. Just be sure to introduce these foods gradually and in proper portions — and run them by your vet first if your dog has any dietary or health issues.

10 Superfoods for Dogs

1. Kale

This supercharged leafy green contains loads of vitamins, including A, E, and C. Kale is a good source of antioxidants and helps the liver detoxify the body. It also has anti-inflammatory properties. If your dog has bladder stones or kidney disease, ask your vet before feeding your dog kale; it may need to be avoided.

2. Carrots

Crunchy and naturally sweet, carrots are loved by most dogs. They’re loaded with carotenoids, fiber, vitamins C and K (which aids in blood clotting to help wounds heal), as well as potassium. They also have magnesium, manganese, most of the B vitamins, and phosphorus, which is required for energy production, among other things.

3. Pumpkin

Low in calories and high in soluble fiber, pumpkin helps maintain a healthy digestive tract. It is low in sodium and exceptionally high in carotenoids, potassium, and vitamin C; it also has some calcium and B vitamins. Canned organic pureed pumpkin can be found at grocery stores but be sure that it is pure and not a pie filling — it should have no sugar or spices added.

4. Sweet Potatoes

These tuberous root veggies are rich in beta-carotene and boast 150% more antioxidants than blueberries. Sweet potatoes are also super high in heart-healthy vitamin A and packed with vitamin C to keep your dog’s immune system strong.

5. Fish

Oily fishes like herring, salmon, sardines, mackerel, and anchovies are bursting with omega-3 fatty acids. Omega-3s can do wonders for your dog’s skin, coat and brain; it can also inhibit inflammatory processes that cause arthritic pain and other chronic canine conditions. (If your dog has any of these conditions, ask your vet if fish oil in capsule form might help too.) Fish are also an excellent protein source, with many essential vitamins and minerals.

6. Nori (dried seaweed)

Dried edible seaweed is a Japanese staple. Often associated with sushi, nori is available in some supermarkets, especially those that stock Asian food items. It has protein, galactans (a soluble fiber), vitamins C, E and all the Bs, and minerals such as zinc and copper. It also contains some lesser-known sterols and chlorophyll, which may help regulate metabolism. Nori may also aid in fat metabolism, immune function, and anti-tumor responses. Be sure to buy low sodium nori to keep your dog’s salt intake in check.

7. Chia seeds

The seeds of this traditional grain have several of the same benefits as the more well-known “super seed” flax. But unlike flax seed, you don’t need to grind them to reap the health benefits. You can simply sprinkle seeds onto your dog’s meals. The nutritional benefits of chia include fiber, omega 3 fatty acids, calcium, antioxidants and even protein. They are also highly absorbent, which means they can help hydrate the body.

8. Quinoa

Commonly considered a grain, quinoa is actually a seed related to spinach. It’s a complete protein, supplying all eight of the essential amino acids and is a good source of fiber, folate, magnesium, iron, phosphorous, and many phytochemicals. One of the few vegetable sources of complete proteins, quinoa is a potent antioxidant and helps reduce the risk of diabetes.

9. Yogurt

Yogurt contains active cultures known as probiotics (aka, healthy bacteria), which help keep bad bacteria away. It may improve gut function, contains a number of nutrients, including protein, calcium, phosphorus, vitamin B12, potassium, zinc, and iodine. It is also a fair source of other B vitamins, such as riboflavin and pantothenic acid (required for enzyme action and energy production, as well as other cellular functions).

10. Blueberries

Loaded with phytochemicals, blueberries are a great treat for your dog year-round (you can buy them fresh or frozen). The deep blue color comes from anthocyanidins, which are potent antioxidants; blueberries also supply vitamins C and E, manganese, and fiber. It’s best to give your dog small quantities since gorging on this tasty fruit can adversely affect canine (and human) bowel movements.

A Few Other Healthy Foods For Dogs

In addition to these superfoods, there are many natural, fresh, wholesome foods that dogs and humans can thrive on, including apples, green beans, papaya, leafy greens, liver and hearts, eggs, oats, bananas, wheat grass, cranberries, nuts, pumpkin seeds, coconut oil, parsley, wheat germ, apple cider vinegar, and many more. For dogs, animal protein such as chicken, turkey, duck, lamb, goat, rabbit, pork, beef, fish, and venison should also be an integral part of their meals.

Natural Dog Food Recipe: Fish and Potato Bites

Your dog will love this recipe for a salmon-based dog food treat. It is easy to make with basic ingredients that you have at home. Directions for this incredible homemade dog food recipe include mixing salmon (or chicken), some sweet potatoes, and a bit of broth. Learn how to provide your dog with nutritious, natural, delicious homemade dog food and treats that are made with little or no fuss. Use organic and non-GMO ingredients where available.