Last Updated on February 5, 2024 by Aftab Tariq
The best dog food brands prioritize providing nutritionally rich meals for responsible pet owners, while also recognizing the importance of other essentials such as a comfortable bed and engaging playthings.
The significance of the right dog food is emphasized by experts who point out its positive impact on digestion, absorption, and maintaining a healthy weight.
Dr. Lori Teller, a certified veterinarian and former president of the American Veterinary Medical Association, underscores the quality of commercially processed canned or kibble foods in meeting dogs’ nutritional requirements, encompassing proteins, lipids, carbs, vitamins, and minerals.
These top-notch dog foods offer convenience, consistency, and accessibility, undergoing rigorous quality control to ensure the safety of pets and humans by preventing contaminants or pathogens.
For those seeking guidance on the best dog food brands, we consulted with vets and animal nutritionists. Here are some top choices based on their expert recommendations.
Best Dog Food to Consider in 2024
The dog diets mentioned below, including dry kibble and canned wet food, meet or exceed nutritional standards set by the Association of Animal Feed Control Officials (AAFCO), as suggested by our experts.
The companies producing these diets have veterinary nutritionists on staff to ensure the use of top-notch ingredients. Each brand provides feeding guidance on the container to help you determine the right amount for your dog based on its size and weight.
Puppies can choose from various high-calorie options, and dogs of all sizes can find easily digestible kibble from any of the brands.
AAFCO Nutrition
Our experts all agree that good dog food should meet the AAFCO nutrition standards.
“According to Roberts, ‘You can easily check if a pet food meets your furry friend’s needs by looking at the label. If it says “complete and balanced,” it’s designed to be your pet’s main diet for overall nutrition.'”
This crucial information, considered vital by the FDA, can be found in small font on the back label. Although AAFCO establishes standards, definitions, and policies, it doesn’t regulate, test, approve, or certify pet food. Therefore, there is no concept of an “AAFCO approved” brand or product.
Here is the list of Best dog food brands.
1. Stella & Chewy’s Freeze Dried Raw Dinner Patties – Grain Free Dog Food
Nutrition: Turkey with ground bone, turkey liver, and turkey gizzard
Breed size: Suitable for all breed sizes
Wet or dry food: Dry dehydrated raw
Cost: $2.25 per pound
Veterinarians have mixed views on raw-food diets for dogs. Some caution that both dogs and their owners may face health risks from consuming raw food.
Dr. Lori, for example, isn’t keen on raw food now, fearing it could make people in the house sick. He’s open to change if future studies show benefits, given the current lack of research.
On the flip side, some argue that the nutritional benefits of raw diets, like better digestion and a stronger immune system, justify the extra hygiene measures.
Advocates, including Krause, Liff, and Dr. Marty Goldstein, support these benefits. Liff stresses educating pet owners on safe food handling for raw diets.
Dr. Goldstein suggests that freeze-dried raw foods lower the risk of food poisoning and don’t need refrigeration.
Krause recommends dehydrated turkey patties from Stella & Chewy, praising their convenience and AAFCO approval. She’s a fan of Stella & Chewy products overall, emphasizing their quality.
2. DEHYDRATED WHOLE GRAIN CHICKEN
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Ingredients: Dehydrated chicken, organic barley, dehydrated potatoes.
Breed Size: All breeds.
Type: Dry dehydrated.
Cost: $7.99 per pound
A seasoned editor noticed a big improvement in their soft-coated wheaten terrier’s health when they switched from regular kibble to meals made with human-grade ingredients.
The decision was prompted by the dog’s struggle with stomach issues, which caused it to lose over 25% of its body weight. After six years of this new diet, the pet’s stomach problems improved significantly.
The chosen pet cuisine goes through a gentle dehydration process, making it seem like each ingredient is carefully dried and minced.
To make the dining experience even better, it’s suggested to let the food absorb warm water for a short time before serving.
3. Pantry Fresh Wet Dog Food, Lamb & Brown Rice Human Grade Dog Food
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utrition: Lamb hearts, brown rice, and cauliflower as first ingredients
Breed size: Suitable for all breed sizes
Wet or dry food: Wet food
Cost: $0.53 per pound
Just Food For Dogs, a Californian company, has a stellar team of veterinarians specializing in various areas, earning them praise for their commitment to providing top-notch fresh-cooked pet food, as noted by Lori.
Regardless of differing opinions on pet food choices, Lori encourages not to feel judged for your decision. Lori acknowledges the company’s success in overcoming challenges related to low palatability in prescription foods and recommends Just Food For Dogs for their veterinarian-backed offerings.
Krause supports the brand, especially for addressing palatability issues, and suggests JustFoodForDogs for its complete meals made from human-grade ingredients. The PantryFresh collection includes macaroni, rice, turkey, beef, potato, lamb, and chicken.
Krause emphasizes the appropriateness of these top dry dog food brands, particularly the best dog food brands for allergies or specific needs like kidney disease in pets. The products are also praised for their shelf stability and lack of questionable preservatives, making them an excellent choice, according to Krause .
4. Royal Canin Dog Food, Chicken, 4 kg
Nutrition: Brewer’s rice, chicken by-product meal, wheat.
Breed Size: Small breeds.
Form: Dry.
Cost: $6.80 per pound.
The well-known dog food manufacturer Royal Canin offers a blend of components in their Maxi Adult Pellet Dog Food that are specially formulated for the maintenance of the health of large breed dogs. This food contains an optimal amount of protein to support muscle health and overall well-being.
With essential iron and other vital nutrients, Royal Canin’s products are trusted by veterinarians for their efficacy in promoting your dog’s health.
The carefully crafted combination of ingredients ensures your dog receives the best nutrition for a long and healthy life. When it comes to the health of your dog, Royal Canin is the brand that pet owners can rely on for their dog’s dietary needs.
Pros
- Extremely advantageous for the health of your dog’s gastrointestinal tract, cardiovascular system, and skin
- Abundant in essential nutrients, ensuring a well-rounded diet
- Offers a delectable taste that your dog will adore
- Completely free from beef, addressing dietary restrictions and preferences
Cons
- Offers a relatively lower value for your investment.
- Contains elevated levels of fat and carbohydrates
5. Purina Super Coat Adult Dry Dog Food
Nutrition: Salmon, barley, and rice as the main ingredients
Breed size: Designed for large breeds
Wet or dry food: Dry kibble
Cost: $3.41 per pound
Purina Super coat, a product of Nestlé Australia, stands out as a renowned dog food brand known for its health advantages. This dog food brand offers a range of products for adult dogs and puppies, emphasizing the importance of muscle health and overall nourishment.
With Purina Super coat, you can trust that your dog’s dietary needs are met, ensuring their health and well-being. When providing your dog with the best nutrition, Purina dog food is the only choice for dog owners who seek a reliable and trusted food brand.
Pros
- Delightful taste that your dog will enjoy
- Offers affordability without compromising quality
- Strengthens the immune system
- Boosts your dog’s energy and proactiveness
- Fosters the development of a shiny coat and healthy skin
Cons
- Limited suitability for specific dog breeds.
6. Fromm Family Pet Food Adult Gold
Nutrition: Chicken, chicken meal, broth, oatmeal, pearled barley, brown rice
Breed size: All sizes
Wet or dry food: Dry
Cost: $3.20 per pound
For more than seven years, Maggie, a hound mix with skin allergies since puppyhood, has been enjoying Fromm dog food.
The decision came after a vet suggested trying the name brand from this family-run business, leading to significant improvement in Maggie’s condition—she now only occasionally experiences hot spots and dandruff.
What appeals to the owner is Fromm’s dry food, conveniently available in five-pound bags. This allows for a weekly rotation of flavors and recipes for Maggie without the need for a veterinarian prescription.
Although not commonly found in major stores, local pet shops, such as Brooklyn’s Trixie’s Pet Food Supplies & Accessories, or online vendors, typically carry the product.
7. Hill’s Science Diet Puppy Small Bites Dry Dog Food
Nutrition: Primary ingredients: brown rice, brewers rice, egg product
Breed Sizes: Suitable for all breed sizes
Wet or Dry Food: Dry food
Cost: $5.42 per pound
Hill’s Science Diet puppy food is made for dogs up to one year old, with small, easy-to-eat kibble. It includes natural DHA from fish oil for brain and eye development, plus vitamins E and C to boost a healthy immune system in puppies.
You can grab it in 4.5- or 12.5-pound bags. If you prefer, our experts suggest mixing in a canned puppy formula with the kibble for added variety and nutrition.
8. Frozen Fresh Dog Food, Fish & Sweet Potato Dog Food
Nutrition: Salmon, barley, and rice as the main ingredients
Breed size: Tailored for large breeds
Wet or dry food: Dry food
The people behind Just Food For Dogs say their product is great for pudgy or less active dogs because it’s packed with protein and low in calories. It’s also perfect for those on a simple diet, offering meals made from local ingredients and a single protein type.
They claim that dogs with tummy troubles or allergies needing a different protein source can find a well-balanced diet in their sweet potato and fish option.
Just Food for Dogs brags that their Fresh Frozen food is preservative-free and can be thawed and served whenever, while their Pantry Fresh food, which doesn’t need refrigeration, stays good for up to two years.
What to look for when picking out high-quality dog food?
When selecting a high-quality dog food, several key factors come into play to ensure your furry friend’s health and well-being. First and foremost, consider your dog’s age, breed, and activity level, as these factors influence their calorie requirements and dietary needs.
Be attentive to any allergies your dog might have, and check the ingredient list of the dog food brand you’re considering for potential allergens. Protein, meat, and quality ingredients are a must to promote the health of the dog’s muscles and their body as a whole. Additionally, nutrients such as vitamins and minerals play a vital role in their diet, contributing to overall vitality.
Consult with a veterinarian to determine the right dosages and quantities of food for your dog’s weight and age, as this can vary significantly from one household to another.
By keeping these essential considerations in mind, you can make an informed decision and choose a high-quality dog food that meets your pet’s specific requirements.
Our Experts:
At Select, we trust people who know their stuff. We’re committed to keeping things fair and making sure all advice and expert help are crystal clear, with no hidden money conflicts.
Dr. Lori Teller: Board-certified veterinarian and former president of the American Veterinary Medical Association
Dr. Richard Hill: Board-certified veterinary nutritionist and associate professor at the University of Florida, contributes to Small Animal Clinical Sciences
Dr. Judy Morgan: Specializes in integrative veterinary care
Dr. Megan Shepherd: Board-certified veterinary nutritionist, owner of Veterinary Clinical Nutrition, PLLC
Best Dog Food Brands
Choose the best dog food brands for optimal nutrition and well-being for your furry companion.
Best Dog Food Brands Australia
Conclusion
When determining the best dog food brands, several factors are significant in making an informed decision. The list of top dog food brands includes Pedigree, Purina, Drools, Pure pet, and more, each offering a range of products tailored to fit different breeds and age needs.
Whether you have an adult super dog or a puppy, these brands consider health advantages, taste, and market trends. They offer various options, from dry food to grain dry food, meat, and rice, ensuring a wide range to cater to your dog’s dietary requirements. Be informed about dog food brands to avoid for a healthier and happier furry friend.
Note: At The Dog Food Advisor, we keep it simple. Our evaluations are always unbiased – no payment, gifts, or samples sway our opinions.
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Frequently asked questions
What is the Number 1 Healthiest Dog Food?
What is the Best Dog Food Brands Recommended by Vets?
Is Purina a good dog food?
Is there a Problem With Taste of the Wild Dog Food?
References
Senior Pets, American Veterinary Medical Association
American Kennel Club (AKC)
Association of Animal Feed Control Officials
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