14 of the Best Dry Dog Foods [2023] (2023)

This updated guide reviews all of this year's best dry dog ​​foods.

Without a doubt, dry dog ​​food is thebut popularoption for dog lovers who want to feed their dogs the best. It is convenient to measure and feed, stores easily and has a long shelf life without the need for refrigeration, and provideshigh qualityProteins and nutrients to keep your dog healthy and happy.

OdisadvantageThe popularity of dry dog ​​food stems from the confusing number of options on the market.

So how do you choose the best dog food for your best friend?

To help you choose wisely, we've compiled a list of the best dog foods using our40 point inspection list. We believe that any of thesemaximum qualityDog food will be a perfect choice for your puppy.

Let's start.

The best dry dog ​​food

How to change your dog's food without making your pup sick.Watch this important video to learn how:

The best dog food reviews

1. Wellness Complete Health Boneless Oatmeal Chicken Dog Food

Main ingredients:1. Boneless Chicken, 2. Chicken Meal, 3. Oats, 4. Ground Barley, 5. Peas

evaluations:

• Stage of life:Adult
• Suitable for:Small, medium and large breeds
• caloric content(por kg): 3.619kcal
• Analysis:Protein (min.) 24% | Fat (min.) 12% | Fiber (max.) 4% | Humidity (max) 10%
• Mould:seco

This recipe is undoubtedly one of the best dry dog ​​foods on the market today and the most recommended by veterinarians and breeders. Made with an interesting combination of boneless chicken and white fish, the formula is a complete and balanced diet for your dog.

Oespecialthe mix gives your dog full bodynutritional support thatneed to maintain health and activity. The other mix of ingredients is loaded withantioxidantsand other high-quality nutrients to support cognitive health and keep your immune system strong. The flavors will also keep your dog hooked!

Buyer Review Example…“My dogs have been eating this for almost 9 years. I have tried other foods but I always come back to this formula. Both dogs get along well, even with the largest pieces."

2. Blue Buffalo Wilderness Puppy Chicken Recipe Food Dog Food

5 main ingredients:1. Boneless chicken, 2. Pea protein, 3. Chicken meal, 4. Chicken fat, 5. Flaxseed

evaluations:

• Stage of life:Puppy
• Suitable for:Small, medium and large breeds
• caloric content(per kg): 3,662 kcal
• Analysis:Proteinmin. 36% |Fat. 16%, |Max. 5% | humidity max. 10%
• Mould:seco

Puppies require more nutrients and protein than adults to support their growing bodies. So if there is one food that we recommend for all puppies, it would be Blue Buffalo Wilderness Dog Food. It is made to replicate the diet of wolves and contains real foods like boneless chicken, peas, fish oil, and sweet potatoes.

Muscle growth also peaks during puppyhood, so the food has a crude protein content of 36% to provide essential amino acids. The recipe also includes taurine to promote heart health and reduce the risk of DCM, as well as DHA and ARA to support vision and brain development. Owners of sensitive or allergic breeds can also feed their pups Blue Buffalo Wilderness as it is grain, wheat, corn and soy free.

3. Nutro Natural Choice Senior Dog Food with Chicken and Brown Rice

Main ingredients:1. Chicken, 2. Chicken meal, 3. Whole barley, 4. Peas, 5. Rice for beer

• Stage of life:Senior
• Suitable for:Small, medium and large breeds
• Caloric content (per kg):3.569kcal
• Analysis:Protein (min.) 24% | Fat (min.) 12% | Fiber (max.) 4% | Humidity (max) 10%
• Mould:seco

Help your dog make a smooth transition into old age with Nutro Natural Choice Human Grade Senior Dry Dog Food. It is specifically formulated to keep senior dogs lean and active while preventing a host of health problems. Chicken meat and brown rice are the main ingredients of the food to support muscle repair and keep your dog full of energy.

Additionally, the food is fortified with glucosamine and chondroitin, which strengthen cartilage and prevent hip/elbow dysplasia and arthritis in dogs. Dogs also become vulnerable to diseases in old age, so the food contains antioxidants that strengthen immunity. Your dog will also get plenty of fiber from whole grains which will keep his GI system running smoothly.

4. Wellness CORE Grain Free Original Boneless Turkey Dog Food

5 main ingredients:1. Boneless turkey, 2. Chicken meal, 3. Potatoes, 4. Chicken liver, 5. Salmon oil

evaluations:

• Stage of life:Adult
• Suitable for:Small, medium and large breeds
• caloric content(per kg): 3,698 kcal
• Analysis:Proteinmin. 34% |Fat. 16%, |Max. 4% |Humidity max. 10%
• Mould:seco

The special grain-free formula is a blend of deboned turkey, turkey meal, and chicken meal to give your little darling the much-needed protein boost dogs need to maintain optimal health.

The high protein content is one of the main reasons most dog owners choose this option, especially for growing puppies and dog breeds that require an extra dose of protein for growth and maintenance. In addition to new sources of protein, the recipe is made with wholesome, natural ingredients, with no artificial flavors or colors.

5. Hill's Science Diet Large Breed Dog Food with Barley and Chicken

Main ingredients:1. Chicken, 2. Split Pearl Barley, 3. Whole Wheat, 4. Whole Corn, 5. Rice for Beer

• Stage of life:Adult
• Suitable for:Large and Giant Breeds
• caloric content(per cup): 363 kcal
• Analysis:Protein (min.) 20% | Fat (min.) 11.5% | Fiber (max.) 4.5% | Humidity (max) 10%
• Mould:seco

Large dogs need different nutrients and more calories than the average canine. Hill's Science Diet Large Breed Recipe was created especially for these dogs, with support for joint health and enough calories to last an entire day. It has chicken meat and whole grains that provide amino acids and fiber to keep your dog muscular and full of energy.

In addition, the food is enriched with omega fatty acids to keep your dog's coat shiny and skin healthier. Giant breeds are also prone to arthritis and joint problems, which their diet prevents with glucosamine and chondroitin. The food also contains vitamin C and E to strengthen immunity, and does not contain artificial colors or preservatives.

6. IamsProActive Health Adult MiniChunks Dog Food

Main ingredients:1. Chicken, 2. Whole ground corn, 3. Whole ground sorghum, 4. Chicken by-product meal, 5. Dried beet pulp

• Stage of life:Adult
• Suitable for:small breeds
• caloric content(por kg): 3.646kcal
• Analysis:Protein (min.) 25% | Fat (min.) 14% | Fiber (max.) 4% | Humidity (max) 10%
• Mould:seco

The protein-rich mini-chunk formula is made from high-quality, farm-raised chicken to ensure your adult dog gets all the protein he needs.

The recipe relies on other wholesome ingredients including grains, fruits and vegetables for additional minerals, vitamins and acids to ensure better skin condition and a shinier coat.

7. ORIJEN Original Grain-free dry dog ​​food

5 main ingredients:1. Chicken, 2. Turkey, 3. Sole, 4. Whole mackerel, 5. Chicken liver

evaluations:

• Stage of life:Adult
• Suitable for:Small, medium and large breeds
• caloric content(per kg): 3,940 kcal
• Analysis:Proteinmin. 38% |Fat. 18%, |Max. 4% |Humidity max. 12%
• Mould:seco

Made with 85% animal-derived ingredients and packed with tons of calories, Orijen Original Grain-Free Recipe is the ultimate dry dog ​​food for shoppers with no budget constraints. It is based on the ancestral diet of canines and features whole foods like chicken, turkey, halibut, and mackerel, plus lentils, cranberries, and various fruits and vegetables.

Each of these whole foods offers a variety of nutrients and tons of protein to boost muscle growth and energy levels. The recipe also contains 473 calories per cup, making it ideal for underweight and athletic dogs. All of these ingredients give the food a delicious, meaty flavor, which is further enhanced by a freeze-dried meat topping.

8. Comida para perros Taste of the Wild High Prairie Grain Free

5 main ingredients:1. Buffalo, 2. Lamb Meal, 3. Chicken Meal, 4. Sweet Potato, 5. Peas

evaluations:

• Stage of life:Adult
• Suitable for:Small, medium and large breeds
• caloric content(per kg): 3,719kcal
• Analysis:Proteinmin.32% |Fatmin. 18 %, |Fiber max. 4% | humidity max. 10%
• Mould:seco

Rich in omega essential acids, your dog will love the variety of protein-rich ingredients this recipe has in store for them.

The main protein of animal origin is extracted from the meat of deer, bison, wild boar, lamb, salmon and wild birds. But it doesn't end here. This particular recipe is my favorite because of the excellent nutritional profile it has, which I find ideal for different breeds of dogs.

Buyer Review Example…“I have tried several brands of food. Expensive and not expensive but this is what my dogs love and eat without any wet food along with it.”

9. Come on! Solutions Carnivore Grain Free Chicken, Turkey + Duck Dog Food

5 main ingredients:1. Chicken Meal, 2. Turkey Meal, 3. Salmon Meal, 4. Boneless Chicken, 5. Boneless Turkey

evaluations:

• Stage of life:Adult
• Suitable for:Small, medium and large breeds
• caloric content(per kg): 3,951 kcal
• Analysis:Proteinmin.32% |Fatmin. 16%, |Fibramax.3% |Moisturemax. 10%
• Mould:seco

The grain-free and gluten-free formula is an excellent example of a premium food for your dog, and is therefore one of the best dry dog ​​foods you can give your child.

Suitable for all breeds, the multi-protein rich formula is made from grain-free chicken, turkey, trout, salmon and duck to provide complete and balanced nutrition for your dog's optimal health.

10. Nutro Ultra Adult Weight Control Dog Food Chicken, Lamb and Salmon

5 main ingredients:1. Chicken, 2. Chicken Meal, 3. Whole Grains 4. Brown Rice, 5. Whole Sorghum

• Stage of life:Adult
• Suitable for:Small, medium and large breeds
• caloric content(per kg): 3,346kcal
• Analysis:Proteinmin.26% |Fatmin. 9 %, |Fiber max. 12% | humidity max. 4%
• Mould:seco

Losing weight can make your dog more active, improve joint health, and significantly increase his lifespan. And the best diet for this purpose is Nutro Ultra Adult Weight Management. It has fewer calories than the average dry food, which increases fat metabolism and makes your dog leaner than before.

However, the best part of this food is that it is made entirely from non-GMO ingredients, such as chicken meat, brown rice, and beetroot pulp. These nutrient-dense foods are easy to digest while promoting muscle growth and high energy levels. The food is also free of artificial additives and fillers like corn, wheat, and soy.

11. Selected Healthy Adult Holistic Chicken Meal And Dog Food With Brown Rice

Main ingredients:1. Chicken meal, 2. Brown rice, 3. Oats, 4. Chicken fat, 5. Dried beetroot pulp

• Stage of life:Adult
• Suitable for:Small, medium and large breeds
• caloric content(por kg): 3.916kcal
• Analysis:Protein (min.) 25% | Fat (min.) 15% | Fiber (max.) 4% | Humidity (max) 10%
• Mould:seco

The Holistic Select brand is characterized by offering a complete and balanced diet that adapts to dogs of different breeds and stages of life. The dry kibble formula is a perfect combination of wholesome ingredients to provide premium protein and other nutrients.

Prepared with excellent quality chicken and brown rice, the blend promotes digestive health and facilitates the absorption of nutrients. Serve your dog a healthy balance of whole grains for optimal health and lots of energy.

12. Natural Balance LID Grain Free Serving of Salmon and Sweet Potato

Main ingredients:1. Salmon, 2. Menhaden fishmeal, 3. Sweet potato, 4. Tapioca starch, 5. Canola oil

• Stage of life:Adult
• Suitable for:Small, medium and large breeds
• caloric content(por kg): 3.450kcal
• Analysis:Protein (min.) 24% | Fat (min.) 10% | Fiber (max.) 4.5% | Humidity (max) 10%
• Mould:seco

Put an end to itchy skin and ear infections with Natural Balance LID Salmon & Sweet Potato Dog Allergen Free Food. It is made from a single protein, salmon, which promotes nutrition and muscle repair. For carbohydrates, the meal uses sweet potatoes and tapioca due to their excellent digestibility and fiber content.

Since the food contains few ingredients, it is perfect for dogs with all types of food allergies. In the recipe you will find zero grains, dairy, red meat, poultry, corn, wheat or soy, most of which trigger allergic reactions in dogs. The food remains fully balanced and with nutrients to strengthen immunity and leave your dog's coat healthy and full.

13. Blue Buffalo Life Protection Formula Adult Dog Food

5 main ingredients:1. Boneless Chicken, 2. Chicken Meal, 3. Brown Rice, 4. Barley, 5. Oatmeal

evaluations:

• Stage of life:Adult
• Suitable for:Small, medium and large breeds
• caloric content(per kg): 3,618 kcal
• Analysis:Protein min.24% |Grasamin. 14%, |Fibramax.5% |Moisturemax. 10%
• Mould:seco

This Blue Buffalo recipe is another great mix that I personally like. It has an interesting combination of meat-based proteins, antioxidant-rich whole grains, and healthy fats.

And that's why this blue buffalo formula is one of the healthiest dog foods around, with an impressive nutritional profile and a high protein to fat ratio that ensures well-balanced nutrition for your four-legged canine friend.

14. Purina Pro Plan Dog Food with Shredded Chicken and Rice

5 main ingredients:1. Chicken, 2. Rice, 3. Whole wheat, 4. Soybean meal, 5. Beef fat

evaluations:

• Stage of life:Adult
• Suitable for:Small, medium and large breeds
• caloric content(per kg): 4,038kcal
• Analysis:Protein (min.) 26% | Fat (min.) 16% | Fiber (max.) 3% | Humidity (max) 12%
• Mould:seco

Just as athletes need a personalized diet, active breeds also need a special dog food that can fuel their daily adventures. Purina Pro Plan Shredded Blend dog food is designed for just that purpose with more calories and incredible meaty flavor to support the most energetic dogs around. The main ingredients of the diet are chicken meat and rice, both necessary to maintain muscles and energy to perform various activities.

Active dogs also burn calories quickly, so the food contains 387 calories per cup of whole grains. It is also enriched with probiotics that promote intestinal health and increase nutrient absorption. Omega-6 fatty acids and vitamin A are also added to keep your dog's coat shiny and soft. In addition to the normal kibble, the food also contains shredded chicken meat to enhance the flavor and appeal to your dog at every meal.

frequent questions

Is dry food the best option for my dog?

Dry food or dry dog ​​food is, in fact, thebetterdiet, as long as you pay attention to the ingredients before choosing a brand for your pup. Not only is it a more commercial option, it also has along service life, it does not need to be refrigerated and the chewy consistency guarantees the health of your dog's teeth.

How to store dry dog ​​food?

Fortunately, it doesn't take a lot of effort to store dry dog ​​food. The best way to prolong the freshness of dry food is to keep it in its original packaging and only take out what you are feeding your dog. You can also use airtight containers to store the food.

Is dry dog ​​food better than wet dog food?

There are definite benefits associated with dry dog ​​food. These options are not only nutritionally balanced for your dog, but they are also easier to serve and store. Food has less odor and is less likely to spoil if left in the container for a long time. On the other hand,wet food optionsThey are also beneficial for dogs, especially dogs that need to increase their water intake, but dry food actually has more benefits.

What is a 'balanced food' for dogs?

A "balanced" diet refers to the ideal nutrient profile associated with a mixture of foods. If a brand claims to be complete and perfectly balanced for your dog, it guarantees to provide all the essential nutrients closest to the dog's natural diet.

What does "healthy" dog food mean?

A diet is considered healthy if it contains unprocessed, real, bioavailable, nutrient-dense ingredients. The ingredients are also inspected and approved by the USDA.

Does the serving size matter?

You'll find dry dog ​​food in a variety of kibble sizes. ANDchoose the right sizeis important because younger dogs and small breeds may find it difficult to eat larger pieces of food. There is a risk of choking if you give your small dogs a large kibble to eat. Larger dogs, on the other hand, can comfortably eat kibble of all sizes.

Can dry dog ​​food go bad in the heat?

While dry dog ​​food stays fresh longer compared to other options, exposing it to heat, moisture, and air can speed up the degradation process. It is best to store dry dog ​​food in a cool, dry place.

Are dry dog ​​cereals bad for my dog's diet?

grain free dietsthey are an excellent choice for dogs with a sensitive gut. The allergen-free recipe does not cause food-related sensitivities in dogs. However, whole grains provide valuable nutrients such as minerals, vitamins, fiber and essential fatty acids. They are not fillers and may have beneficial health implications.

Can my dog ​​easily chew dry dog ​​food?

Most puppies can easily chew small sized dry kibble. However, some youngsters may find it difficult and require you to soften the dog food before eating. To soften, add a few tablespoons of warm water to the bowl and set aside for a few minutes to allow the food to soften. If your dog is not allergic to chicken or beef, you can also add hot broth to soften your precious pup's food.

What is the role of moisture in dry dog ​​food?

Moisture content can have a significant effect on the overall percentage of other ingredients in a dry dog ​​formula, including protein, carbohydrate, and fat. Being aware of moisture content will help you determine the nutrient composition of foods.

Why is it important to check the fiber content in dry dog ​​food?

Fiber is a crucial component of a dog's diet and it is important to ensure a certain amount of fiber in his daily food. The presence of fiber improves stools, promotes weight maintenance or loss, improves colon health, and helps with digestion problems. It adds to the overall health benefits for your dog.

How important is fat in a dog's diet?

All dogs require a certain amount of fat in their diets to maintain health and strength. In fact, a dog's need for fat is much greater than that of humans, and since dogs do not suffer from hardening of the arteries or atherosclerosis, the fat content does not pose a threat to your dog's health. They need fat for the energy they need to run and play.

Do I need to feed my dog ​​a varied diet?

While variety may have some advantages, especially for picky eaters, there is no strong evidence to support how a varied diet can be healthier. However, if your dog likes to switch between different flavors and recipes, you can introduce variety.

What kind of food is best for my dog?

This is a subjective question. You need to consider different factors such as your dog's breed, age, gender, body composition, activity level, and temperament before choosing the right option available. But in general, a diet that offers a mix made with quality ingredients is considered healthy and beneficial for your dog.

What protein sources are best for dogs?

It is important to understand that not all proteins are created equal. Dogs need a higher protein content with high digestibility. Meat-based protein is the best source that provides this essential nutrient for your dog.

Are raw food diets safe for my pet?

There are potential downsides to giving your dog just oneraw food diet. Failure to comply with nutritional standards causes deficiencies and imbalances and can lead to various infectious diseases. You can give him certain raw foods like fruits and vegetables, as well as a nutritionally balanced diet like supplements.

Buyers Guide

What to avoid feeding your dog

It is very important to maintain quality when it comes to your dog's diet. This is one of the key factors that I always keep in mind before finalizing my lists ofdog food. I don't compromise on quality and neither should you. Look for options that use quality poultry, meat and fish as the basic ingredient. Choosing dog food with a high source of animal protein as the first ingredient is essential, unless your dog has kidney problems.

Here are some things to stay away from when narrowing down your list of the best dry dog ​​foods.

1. Additives, preservatives, colors and artificial flavors

Avoid anything that contains the word "artificial". These things compromise the quality of the dog food and are also detrimental to your dog's health. Additives and artificial ingredients can also trigger allergies and sensitivities in some dogs. Low-quality grain-based diets often have a list of these artificial ingredients and should be avoided entirely.

2. Unnecessary fillers

While whole grains are great dog food ingredients, refined grains are nothing more than low-quality fillers that your dog's tummy won't like. To stick with the best dog food option, avoid anything that includes unnecessary fillers and look for options with more formulations based on meat, vegetables, fruits, whole grains, healthy oils, and seeds.

What to look for in the best dog food

You're pretty clear on that part now, but let's dig deeper into it:

• Complete nutrition:They aredaily diet for dogsthey should be loaded with ingredients that provide all the essential nutrients they need. Pay special attention to protein, fat and fiber. To compare, check the nutritional adequacy standards set by AAFCO and compare the label to see if the pet food you're choosing meets or exceeds the standard.
• Whole or specified meat meal:To obtain high-quality sources of protein and amino acids, it is important to have meat, bone meal, meat meal, and specific meat by-products as your main food.Ingredients.
• Avoid low-quality fillers and grains – If you don't mind feeding your dog grains, make sure they are only whole grain options. Avoid anything that is processed or includes gluten. Barley and rice are comparatively better than wheat and corn.
• Use only natural preservatives or none at all: Having strict rules about preservatives can ensure a longer, healthier life for your dog. The best type of dog food is one with no preservatives or only natural sources of preservatives like ascorbate (vitamin C) or tocopherols (vitamin E). Avoid foods that mention BHA, BHT, and ethoxyquin.

When it comes to getting the best healthy dog ​​food available on the market, there are several considerations that you cannot afford to overlook. With the variety and qualities available on the market today, it becomes very difficult to choose the most suitable brand that you think will be perfect for your dog.

While the debate over exactly what you should feed your dog remains ongoing, I will try to highlight the most important factors to help you choose a complete and nutritionally balanced diet that is perfect for your dog's needs.

So before you go any further, the first thing you need to understand is your dog's breed, life stage, and digestive system. Once you've done this step, it will be easier to determine your butt's specific dietary needs.

With this primary information in hand, you can instantly eliminate all options that you feel are not right for your dog. This leaves you with fewer options available and therefore makes it easier to compare and decide. So, without further ado, let's jump in and learn more!

Standard Dog Food Nutrition

First of all, you should always make sure that the nutritional needs of your canine companion are perfectly covered by the mixture that you choose for him. The factors listed above will help you determine your dog's specific nutritional needs.

Dogs require different ranges of nutrients in varying amounts throughout different life stages. What you feed your puppy will be different from what your adult dog needs. Similarly, your super active working dog will have a different nutrient profile requirement, while you need to be very specific about what you feed your older dog. The best part is that you get a handful of options where the formula is suitable for "all life stages" and different breeds. This is a particularly great benefit for parents of many different types of dogs.

things to consider

Now that you have the main information in hand, focus on your dog's current health. The dietary requirement of a hyperactive dog is different from that of an obese dog. For example, if your dog is allergic to certain ingredients, you should definitely read the label carefully to avoid any options that include those ingredients. Similarly, if your dog is overweight, you should opt for a low-calorie, low-calorie protein option for weight management.

Here are a few more things to consider:

Can I easily identify the ingredients?

A reputable pet food manufacturer will try to make the label easy to read. Look for options that list real meat and meat by-products. However, be sure to clearly mention the origin of the by-product so that you know whether it is healthy for your dog or not. Correctly identifiable ingredients help you to be more aware of what you are feeding your dog. Unspecified ingredients can endanger the health of your dog and therefore this factor should never be ignored.

Check the 'balanced and complete' label

This tag can further simplify your search for the best dry dog ​​food. Complete and balanced nutrition means that the diet contains everything your four-legged friend needs to be fit, healthy and happy. It contains enough protein, carbohydrates, fat, and other micronutrients such as minerals and vitamins that can help your dog maintain optimal health. To earn this seal and display it as a label, manufacturing companies must match AAFCO's standard nutrient profiles. These standards are set by canine nutrition authorities and the badge guarantees that it has passed the defined feeding test.

If the nutritional profile of a given brand exceeds the standard set by the AAFCO, it will be considered even better. So be sure to check this label.

choose only the best

Don't forget to check out the full list I've curated to make this process easier. The best dry food for your four-legged friend will be your choice. As a pet parent, you are responsible for what you feed your child. So make sure you make this decision wisely and responsibly. Use the information shared in this article in the best interest of your dog.