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

This updated guide takes a look at this year's best dry dog ​​foods.

Undoubtedly, dry dog ​​food is the right choicemost popularChoose for dog lovers who want to feed their dogs the best. It is convenient to dose and feed, easy to store and has a long shelf life that does not require refrigeration, and deliverygood qualityProtein and nutrients to keep your dog healthy and happy.

ODisadvantagePart of the popularity of dry dog ​​food is that there is a bewildering selection on the market.

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

To help you choose, we've compiled a list of the best dog foods from our40-point inspection list. We think that each of thesemaximum qualityDog food is the perfect choice for your puppy.

Let's start.

The best dry dog ​​food

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

Top dog food reviews

1. Wellness Complete Health Dog Food with Boneless Chicken and Oatmeal

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

assessments:

• life stage:Adult
• Suitable for:Small, medium and large breeds
• caloric content(pro kg): 3.619 kcal
• To analyze:Protein (min.) 24% | Fat (min.) 12% | Dietary fiber (max.) 4% | Humidity (max.) 10%
• Form:Seco

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

OespecialThe mixture gives your dog complete bodysupport them nutritionallyNeed to maintain health and activity. The other ingredient mix is ​​loaded with it.antioxidantsand other high-quality nutrients to support cognitive health and keep your immune system strong. The flavors will also get your dog hooked!

Exemplary buyer review...“My dogs have been eating this for almost 9 years. I've tried other foods, but I keep coming back to this formula. Both dogs get along well with it, even with the bigger 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

assessments:

• life stage:Puppy
• Suitable for:Small, medium and large breeds
• caloric content(pro kg): 3.662 kcal
• To analyze:min protein 36% | min fat 16%, |fiber max. 5% | max. humidity 10%
• Form:Seco

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

Muscle growth is also at its peak in the puppy stage, which is why the 36% crude protein feed provides essential amino acids. The recipe also contains 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 puppies Blue Buffalo Wilderness as it is completely free of grains, wheat, corn and soy.

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

Main ingredients:1. Chicken, 2. Chicken Flour, 3. Whole Barley, 4. Peas, 5. Beer Rice

• life stage:Senior
• Suitable for:Small, medium and large breeds
• Caloric content (per kg):3.569 kcal
• To analyze:Protein (min.) 24% | Fat (min.) 12% | Dietary fiber (max.) 4% | Humidity (max.) 10%
• Form:Seco

Help your dog make a smooth transition into old age with human-grade Nutro Natural Choice Senior dry food. It is specifically designed to keep older dogs lean and active while preventing a variety of health issues. Chicken and brown rice are the main ingredients in the food to help with muscle repair and keep your dog energized.

Additionally, the food is fortified with glucosamine and chondroitin, which help build cartilage and prevent hip/elbow dysplasia and arthritis in dogs. Dogs also become more susceptible to illnesses as they age, which is why the food contains immunity-boosting antioxidants. Your dog also gets plenty of fiber from whole grains, which keeps his gastrointestinal system running smoothly.

4. Wellness CORE Original Boneless Turkey Grain Free Dog Food

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

assessments:

• life stage:Adult
• Suitable for:Small, medium and large breeds
• caloric content(pro kg): 3.698 kcal
• To analyze:min protein 34% | min fat 16%, |fiber max. 4% | max. humidity 10%
• Form:Seco

The special grain-free formula is a blend of boneless turkey, turkey meal and chicken meal to give your little one that much-needed protein boost dogs need to maintain good health.

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

5. Hill's Science Diet Large Breed Chicken and Hundefutter Barley

Main ingredients:1. Chicken, 2. Broken pearl barley, 3. Whole wheat, 4. Whole corn, 5. Beer rice

• life stage:Adult
• Suitable for:Large and Giant Breeds
• caloric content(pro Tasse): 363 kcal
• To analyze:Protein (min.) 20% | Fat (min.) 11.5% | Dietary fiber (max.) 4.5% | Humidity (max.) 10%
• Form:Seco

Large dogs need different nutrients and more calories than the average dog. Hill's Science Diet Large Breed Recipe is designed specifically for dogs with support for joint health and enough calories to last an entire day. Contains chicken and whole grains that provide amino acids and fiber to keep your dog muscular and energized.

In addition, the kibble is enriched with omega fatty acids to make your dog's coat shiny and skin healthier. Giant breeds are also prone to arthritis and joint problems, which diets containing glucosamine and chondroitin help to prevent. The kibble also contains vitamins C and E to strengthen the immune system and is free of artificial dyes and preservatives.

6. IamsProActive Health Adulto MiniChunks Hundefutter

Main ingredients:1. chicken, 2. ground whole corn, 3. ground whole sorghum, 4. chicken viscera flour, 5. dehydrated beet pulp

• life stage:Adult
• Suitable for:small races
• caloric content(pro kg): 3.646 kcal
• To analyze:Protein (min.) 25% | Fat (min.) 14% | Dietary fiber (max.) 4% | Humidity (max.) 10%
• Form:Seco

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

The recipe is based on other healthy ingredients such as grains, fruits and vegetables for the addition of minerals, vitamins and acids to ensure better skin condition and a shinier coat.

7. ORIJEN Original Grain Free Dog Food

5 main ingredients:1. Chicken, 2. Turkey, 3. Sole, 4. Whole Mackerel, 5. Chicken Liver

assessments:

• life stage:Adult
• Suitable for:Small, medium and large breeds
• caloric content(pro kg): 3.940 kcal
• To analyze:min protein 38% | min fat 18%, |fiber max. 4% | max. humidity 12%
• Form:Seco

Made with 85% animal-derived ingredients and packed with tons of calories - Orijen Original Grain-Free Recipe is the best dry dog ​​food without budget constraints. It is based on the ancient diet of dogs and contains whole foods such as chicken, turkey, halibut and mackerel, as well as lentils, cranberries and various fruits and vegetables.

Each of these whole foods provides 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 athletic and underweight dogs. All of these ingredients give the food a meaty, luscious flavor, enhanced by a freeze-dried meat topping.

8. Wild High Prairie Grain Free Flavor

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

assessments:

• life stage:Adult
• Suitable for:Small, medium and large breeds
• caloric content(pro kg): 3.719 kcal
• To analyze:min.32% protein | fat min. 18%, |fiber max.4% |humiditymax. 10%
• Form:Seco

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

The best animal protein comes from venison, bison, wild boar, lamb, salmon and wild fowl. But it doesn't end here. This particular recipe is my favorite because of the excellent nutritional profile it offers, which I find ideal for different dog breeds.

Exemplary buyer review...“I've tried several brands of snacks. Expensive and not expensive but that's what my dogs loved and ate no wet food.

9. Go! Solutions Carnivore Grain Free Dog Food with Chicken, Turkey and Duck

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

assessments:

• life stage:Adult
• Suitable for:Small, medium and large breeds
• caloric content(pro kg): 3.951 kcal
• To analyze:min.32% protein | fat min. 16%, |fiber max.3% |moisture max. 10%
• Form:Seco

The grain-free and gluten-free formula is a great example of a quality meal for your dog, making it one of the best dry dog ​​foods you can give your little one.

Suitable for all breed types, the protein-rich formula is made with 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 Management Foods Chicken, Lamb and Salmon

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

• life stage:Adult
• Suitable for:Small, medium and large breeds
• caloric content(pro kg): 3.346 kcal
• To analyze:protein min.26% | fat min. 9%, |fiber max.12% |humiditymax. 4%
• Form:Seco

Losing weight can make your dog more active, improve joint health, and significantly increase its 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.

The best thing about this food, however, is that it's made entirely from non-GMO ingredients like chicken, brown rice, and beet pulp. These nutrient-rich foods are easy on the stomach while promoting muscle growth and high energy levels. The feed is also free of additives and artificial fillers such as corn, wheat and soy.

11. Selected Healthy Chicken and Brown Rice Dog Food for Adults

Main ingredients:1. Chicken Flour, 2. Brown Rice, 3. Oats, 4. Chicken Fat, 5. Dried Beet Pulp

• life stage:Adult
• Suitable for:Small, medium and large breeds
• caloric content(pro kg): 3.916 kcal
• To analyze:Protein (min.) 25% | Fat (min.) 15% | Dietary fiber (max.) 4% | Humidity (max.) 10%
• Form:Seco

The Holistic Select brand is known for offering complete and balanced nutrition suitable for dogs of different breeds and life stages. The dry food formula is a perfect blend of healthy ingredients to provide premium protein and other nutrients.

Prepared with high quality chicken and brown rice, the blend favors digestive health and facilitates the absorption of nutrients. Provide your dog with a healthy balance of whole grains for good health and lots of energy.

12. Natural Balance LID Grain Free Dog Food with Salmon and Sweet Potato

Main ingredients:1. Salmon, 2. Menhaden Fish Meal, 3. Sweet Potato, 4. Tapioca Starch, 5. Canola Oil

• life stage:Adult
• Suitable for:Small, medium and large breeds
• caloric content(pro kg): 3.450 kcal
• To analyze:Protein (min.) 24% | Fat (min.) 10% | Dietary fiber (max.) 4.5% | Humidity (max.) 10%
• Form:Seco

Put an end to itchy skin and ear infections with Natural Balance LID Salmon & Sweet Potato allergen-free food. It consists of a single protein, namely salmon, which promotes nutrition and muscle repair. For carbohydrates, the meal uses sweet potatoes and tapioca for their excellent digestibility and fiber content.

Because the food has so few ingredients, it's perfect for dogs with all types of food allergies. The recipe contains zero grains, dairy, red meat, poultry, corn, wheat or soy, many of which cause allergic reactions in dogs. The diet is still fully balanced with nutrients to boost immunity and keep your dog's coat healthy and full.

13. Blue Buffalo Life Protection Formula Adult Hundefutter

5 main ingredients:1. Boneless Chicken, 2. Chicken Flour, 3. Brown Rice, 4. Barley, 5. Oat Flour

assessments:

• life stage:Adult
• Suitable for:Small, medium and large breeds
• caloric content(pro kg): 3.618 kcal
• To analyze:protein min.24% | fat min. 14%, |fiber max.5% |moisturemax. 10%
• Form:Seco

This blue buffalo recipe is another excellent blend that I personally like a lot. It has an interesting combination of meat-based protein, antioxidant-rich whole grains and healthy fats.

And that's why this blue buffalo formula is one of the healthiest foods available, with an impressive nutritional profile and a great protein-to-fat ratio, ensuring a balanced diet for your four-legged canine friend.

14. Purina Pro Plan Shredded Chicken and Rice Mix for Dogs

5 main ingredients:1. Chicken, 2. Rice, 3. Whole Wheat, 4. Soybean Meal, 5. Beef Fat

assessments:

• life stage:Adult
• Suitable for:Small, medium and large breeds
• caloric content(pro kg): 4.038 kcal
• To analyze:Protein (min.) 26% | Fat (min.) 16% | Dietary fiber (max.) 3% | Humidity (max.) 12%
• Form: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 to do just that with more calories and an incredibly meaty taste to support the most energetic dogs out there. The main ingredients in the diet are chicken and rice, both of which are necessary for maintaining muscles and energy for various activities.

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

common questions

Is dry food the best option for my dog?

Dry food or dry dog ​​food is whatpreferablyNutrition 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 durability, does not need to be refrigerated and the chewy consistency ensures healthy teeth for your dog.

How to store dry dog ​​food?

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

Is dry food better than wet food?

There are definite benefits associated with dry dog ​​food. Not only are these options 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 bowl too long. On the other hand,Wet food optionsare also beneficial for dogs, especially dogs that need to increase their water intake, but dry food actually has more benefits.

What is a "balanced diet" for dogs?

A "balanced" diet refers to the ideal nutrient profile associated with a food mix. When a brand claims to be complete and perfectly balanced for your dog, it guarantees that it is providing all the essential nutrients that most closely resemble your dog's natural diet.

What does "healthy" dog food mean?

A diet is considered complete when it contains unprocessed, genuine, bioavailable, nutrient-rich ingredients. The ingredients are also USDA tested and approved.

Does ration size matter?

You can find dry dog ​​food in a variety of kibble sizes. ANDChoosing the right sizeimportant, as it can be difficult for younger dogs and small breeds to eat larger pieces of food. There is a risk of choking if you feed your smaller dogs a large kibble. Larger dogs, on the other hand, can easily eat kibbles of all sizes.

Can dry food spoil in the heat?

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

Is the grain in dry dog ​​food bad for my dog's diet?

grain free dietare an excellent choice for dogs with a sensitive gut. The allergen-free formula does not trigger any diet-related sensitivities in dogs. However, whole grain products provide valuable nutrients such as minerals, vitamins, fiber and essential fatty acids. They are not fillers and can have beneficial health effects.

Can my dog ​​chew dry food without problems?

Most puppies can chew dry kibble without any problems. However, some young dogs find it difficult and require you to dip the kibble before eating. Add a few tablespoons of warm water to the bowl for dipping and set aside for a few minutes to allow the food to soften. If your dog isn't 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 impact on the overall percentage of other ingredients in a dry dog ​​food, including protein, carbohydrates and fat. Knowing the moisture content will help determine the nutritional composition of the food.

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

Fiber is a crucial part of a dog's diet and it is important to ensure a certain amount of fiber in the daily meal. The presence of fiber improves bowel movements, promotes weight maintenance or loss, improves intestinal health and helps with digestive problems. Contributes 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 diet to stay healthy and strong. In fact, a dog's need for fat is much greater than that of humans, and since dogs don't suffer from hardening of the arteries or atherosclerosis, the fat content poses no threat to your dog's health. They need fat to provide the energy they consume. needs to run and walk needs to play.

Should I feed my dog ​​a varied diet?

While variety can have some benefits, especially for picky eaters, there's no solid evidence that a varied diet can be healthier. However, if your dog likes to switch between different flavors and recipes, you can introduce varieties.

What is the best food for my dog?

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

Which 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 good digestibility. Meat-based protein is the best source to provide your dog with this essential nutrient.

Is raw food safe for my pet?

There are potential downsides to just giving your dog araw food diet. Failure to meet nutritional standards generates deficiencies and imbalances and can lead to various infectious diseases. You can add certain raw foods, such as fruits and vegetables, to a balanced diet as a dietary supplement.

shopping guide

What to Avoid When Feeding Your Dog

It is very important to pay attention to the quality of your dog's food. This is one of the basic factors I always keep in mind before finalizing my main lists.dog food. I don't compromise on quality and neither should you. Look for options that use quality poultry, meat, and fish as a 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. Artificial additives, preservatives, colors and flavors

Avoid anything that contains the word contrived. These things affect the quality of dog food and are also harmful to your dog's health. Additives and artificial ingredients can also trigger allergies and sensitivities in some dogs. Low-quality grain-based diets often come with a list of these artificial ingredients and should be completely avoided.

2. Unnecessary fillers

While whole grains make great ingredients for dog food, refined grains are nothing more than inferior fillers that your dog's tummy won't like. To stick with the best dog food option, avoid anything that contains unnecessary fillers and look for options with 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 this part now, but let's dig deeper:

• Complete nutrition:Yourdog daily dietthey should be loaded with ingredients that provide all the essential nutrients they need. Pay special attention to proteins, fats and fiber. For comparison, check the nutritional standards established by the AAFCO and compare the label to see if the food you have chosen meets or exceeds the standard.
• Whole or specific meat flour:For high-quality protein and amino acid sources, it is important to have meat, bone meal, meat meal and certain meat by-products as primary products.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 contains gluten. Barley and rice are comparatively better than wheat and corn.
• Just stick to natural or non-natural preservatives: Strict rules on preservatives can guarantee your dog a longer, healthier life. The best type of feed is without preservatives or with only natural sources of preservatives, such as 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, there are several considerations you shouldn't ignore. With the variety and qualities available in the market today, it is very difficult to choose the most suitable brand that you think will be perfect for your little dog.

While the debate over what exactly you should feed your dog remains constant, I'll try to highlight the most important factors to help you choose a complete, nutritionally balanced diet that's perfectly tailored to your dog's needs.

So, before we go any further, you must first understand your dog's breed, life stage and digestive system. Once you've completed this step, figuring out your tail's specific dietary needs will become easier.

With this basic information, you can immediately rule out any options you don't feel are right for your dog. This leaves you with fewer options, making it easier to compare and decide. So without further ado, let's jump in and learn more!

Standard dog food nutrition

The first thing you should always do is ensure that your four-legged friend's nutritional needs are perfectly met by the mixture you choose for him. The above factors will help you determine your dog's specific nutritional needs.

Dogs need different nutrients in different amounts at different stages of life. What you need to feed your puppy is different than what your adult dog needs. Likewise, your super-active working dog will have a different nutritional profile, whereas you need to be very careful about what your older dog feeds. The best part is that you get a handful of options where the formula is suitable for "all life stages" and different races. This is a huge plus, especially for parents of multiple dog breeds.

things to consider

Now that you have the most important information at hand, focus on your dog's current health. The nutritional needs of an overactive dog are different from those of a dog struggling with obesity. For example, if your dog is allergic to certain ingredients, read the label carefully to stay away from options that contain those ingredients. If your dog is overweight, you should opt for a protein-dense, lower-calorie option to help manage weight.

Here are a few more things to keep in mind:

Can I easily identify the ingredients?

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

Look for the "balanced and complete" label.

This label can further simplify your search for the best dry dog ​​food. A healthy, balanced diet means that the diet includes 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 on a label, manufacturing companies must meet AAFCO's standard nutrient profiles. These standards are set by dog ​​nutrition authorities and the badge guarantees you have passed the specified feeding test.

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

Choose only the best

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