Being a pet parent includes the important responsibility of feeding your dog a nutritious diet. Experts emphasize that the right food provides numerous health benefits, from weight management to a strong immune system. Commercially processed dog foods, whether canned or kibble, are formulated to meet your dog’s nutritional needs, offering convenience, consistency, and quality control.
To help you navigate the options, we consulted veterinarians and animal nutrition experts to identify what to consider when choosing the best dog food. Below, we’ve compiled expert-recommended dog food brands across various categories, including some favorites of pet-owning NBC Select staffers.
Best Dog Food for Puppies: Hill’s Science Diet Puppy Small Bites Dry Dog Food
Hill’s Science Diet Puppy Small Bites Dry Dog Food is formulated for puppies up to 1 year old, featuring small, easy-to-digest kibble. This formula includes natural omega-3 fatty acids from fish oil to support healthy brain and eye development, and a blend of vitamins E and C to boost a puppy’s developing immune system. It is available in 4.5- and 12.5-pound bags, with a canned puppy formula also available for mixing with dry food, as recommended by experts.
Food type: Dry | Texture: Crunchy kibble | Calorie content: 393 kcal per cup | Main ingredients: Chicken, brown rice, whole grain wheat
Best Dry Dog Food for Sensitive Stomachs: Purina Pro Plan Adult Sensitive Skin & Stomach Dry Dog Food
For dogs with sensitivities, Purina Pro Plan Adult Sensitive Skin & Stomach Dry Dog Food is an excellent choice. This formula is designed to minimize digestive issues and skin irritation, excluding corn, wheat, and soy for easier digestion. It incorporates high-protein salmon, a novel protein source beneficial for sensitive stomachs, along with probiotics and prebiotic fiber to support digestive and immune health. Omega-6 fatty acids are also included to promote a healthy skin and coat.
Food type: Dry | Texture: Crunchy kibble | Calorie content: 407 kcal per cup | Main ingredients: Salmon, barley, rice, oatmeal, canola meal, fish meal
Best Overall Dog Food: Royal Canin Small Breed Adult Dry Dog Food
Royal Canin Small Breed Adult Dry Dog Food stands out as a top overall choice due to its tailored nutrition for small breeds and veterinarian recommendations. This brand offers a wide variety of dog food options formulated for specific sizes, breeds, and dietary needs, including sensitivities and gastrointestinal issues. The small-breed kibble is designed for dogs aged 10 months to 8 years, weighing between 9 and 22 pounds. Its crunchy texture and resealable bag enhance palatability and freshness.
Food type: Dry | Texture: Crunchy kibble | Calorie content: 359 kcal per cup (small breed formula) | Main ingredients: Corn, chicken by-product meal, brewers rice, brown rice
Royal Canin dog food is frequently recommended by veterinarians for its breed-specific formulations and high-quality ingredients. Many dog owners report their pets thriving on Royal Canin, appreciating its palatable taste and nutritional benefits.
Best Poultry-Free Dog Food: Merrick Grain Free Real Salmon & Sweet Potato Dry Dog Food
Merrick Grain Free Real Salmon & Sweet Potato Dry Dog Food is ideal for dogs with poultry sensitivities or allergies. This formula uses salmon as a novel protein source, avoiding common allergens like chicken and beef. It is rich in omega fatty acids and easily digestible, making it suitable for dogs with sensitive stomachs. Grain-free and packed with real salmon and sweet potato, it provides a balanced diet while catering to specific dietary needs.
Food type: Dry | Texture: Crunchy kibble | Calorie content: 392 kcal per cup | Main ingredients: Deboned salmon, salmon meal, whitefish meal, sweet potatoes, potatoes, peas
Best Food for Active Dogs: Purina Pro Plan Sport Performance Salmon & Cod Dry Dog Food
Purina Pro Plan Sport Performance Salmon & Cod Dry Dog Food is specifically designed for active adult dogs. Its high protein (30%) and fat (20%) ratio supports energy levels and muscle maintenance in active breeds. Glucosamine and omega-3 fatty acids contribute to joint health and mobility, crucial for active dogs. Palatable and available in various flavors, including salmon and cod, it caters to even picky eaters while meeting the nutritional demands of a sporty lifestyle.
Food type: Dry | Texture: Crunchy kibble | Calorie content: 473 kcal per cup | Main ingredients: Salmon, rice, poultry by-product meal, corn gluten meal, whole grain corn, beef fat
Best Subscription Dog Food: The Farmer’s Dog Subscription Dog Food
The Farmer’s Dog Subscription Dog Food offers fresh, human-grade dog food delivered directly to your door. This subscription service customizes meal plans based on your dog’s specific needs, including age, breed, weight, activity level, and build. Meals are pre-portioned and ready-to-serve, making feeding convenient and ensuring optimal nutrition. Fresh ingredients and customized plans make it a top choice for owners seeking premium, tailored nutrition for their dogs.
Price: Price is based on $2 per day for 14 days. | Food type: Fresh | Texture: Soft, easy to chew | Calorie content: n/a (based on questionnaire) | Main ingredients: Human-grade (based on questionnaire)
Many dog owners have found that switching to The Farmer’s Dog significantly increases their pet’s enthusiasm for mealtime, even for picky eaters. The fresh, palatable nature of the food, combined with the convenience of home delivery, makes it a popular choice.
Best Dog Food for Large Breeds: Purina Pro Plan Large Breed Adult Dry Dog Food
Purina Pro Plan Large Breed Adult Dry Dog Food is formulated to meet the unique nutritional needs of large breed dogs. It helps maintain a healthy weight and supports joint health, crucial for larger breeds prone to joint issues. The kibble size is designed for larger mouths, and the formula includes prebiotic fiber, omega-6 fatty acids, and vitamin A for overall health. It’s a reliable choice for large breed owners looking for balanced nutrition and joint support.
Food type: Dry | Texture: Crunchy kibble | Calorie content: 407 kcal per cup | Main ingredients: Chicken, rice, corn gluten meal, whole grain corn
For senior large breed dogs with reduced activity, Purina Pro Plan also offers weight management formulas within their large breed line. This ensures that even less active senior dogs receive appropriate calorie and nutrient balance to maintain a healthy weight.
Best Canned Wet Dog Food: Royal Canin Adult Gastrointestinal Canned Dog Food
Royal Canin Adult Gastrointestinal Canned Dog Food is a top recommendation for wet food, particularly for dogs with sensitive stomachs or gastrointestinal issues. This low-fat formula is designed to be easily digestible and supports gut health with prebiotics and dietary fibers. Omega-3 fatty acids further soothe the GI tract. While it requires veterinary approval, its targeted formulation makes it a premium choice for dogs needing specialized digestive support in a wet food format.
Food type: Wet | Texture: Soft, easy to chew | Calorie content: 345 kcal per can | Main ingredients: Pork by-products, pork liver, brewers rice flour, corn grits, corn meal
Best Frozen Dog Food: Just Food For Dogs Fish & Sweet Potato
Just Food For Dogs Fish & Sweet Potato is a standout frozen dog food option, featuring high-protein, low-calorie meals made with locally sourced produce. Ideal for overweight or less active dogs, it offers limited ingredient diets with single protein sources like fish, venison, lamb, and turkey. This fish and sweet potato recipe is particularly beneficial for dogs with sensitive stomachs or allergies, providing a balanced diet with novel proteins. Its long freezer shelf life and fresh ingredients make it a convenient and healthy choice.
Food type: Fresh | Texture: Soft, easy to chew | Calorie content: 26 kcal per ounce | Main ingredients: Cod, sweet potatoes, potatoes, green beans, broccoli
Best Dog Food for Digestive and Joint Health: Kirkland Signature Adult Formula Chicken, Rice and Vegetable Dog Food
Kirkland Signature Adult Formula Chicken, Rice and Vegetable Dog Food is praised for its balance of digestive and joint health benefits at a budget-friendly price. It contains probiotics for digestive health and glucosamine and chondroitin for joint support. Many dog owners with sensitive dogs find this formula easily digestible, making it a reliable everyday food. Chicken, brown rice, and vegetables provide a nutritious base for adult dogs.
Food type: Dry | Texture: Crunchy kibble | Calorie content: 393 kcals per cup | Main ingredients: Chicken, chicken meal, whole grain brown rice, cracked pearled barley, chicken fat
Best Wet Food for Sensitive Stomachs: Hill’s Science Diet Adult Sensitive Stomach & Skin Canned Dog Food
Hill’s Science Diet Adult Sensitive Stomach & Skin Canned Dog Food is a top wet food choice for dogs with sensitive stomachs. Its gentle formula minimizes digestive upset while providing essential nutrients. Available in turkey and rice stew, salmon, and chicken recipes, it offers variety while catering to sensitivities. Veterinarian-recommended, it’s a reliable option to mix with dry food or serve alone, adding moisture and palatability to meals for sensitive dogs.
Food type: Wet | Texture: Soft, easy to chew | Calorie content: 253 kcal/can | Main ingredients: Chicken broth, turkey, carrots, pork liver, rice, chicken
Many dog owners mix Hill’s Science Diet canned food with dry kibble to improve palatability and add moisture, especially for dogs with sensitive stomachs. Its gentle formula is well-tolerated and helps ensure dogs receive a balanced diet.
Best Prepared Wet Dog Food: Purina Beneful Prepared Meals Beef & Chicken Medley
Purina Beneful Prepared Meals Beef & Chicken Medley offers a convenient and palatable wet food option. This prepared meal includes vegetables, real beef, chicken, and rice in a stew format. It can be served as a complete meal or mixed with dry food as a tasty topper. Its resealable container adds convenience, and its flavor is widely loved by dogs, making meal times enjoyable.
Food type: Wet | Texture: Soft, easy to chew | Calorie content: 265 kcal per tub | Main ingredients: Beef and chicken broth, beef, wheat gluten, liver, white rice
Using puzzle feeders or snuffle mats can make meal times more engaging and slow down eating, promoting better digestion and preventing gulping. These tools add mental stimulation and enjoyment to your dog’s feeding routine.
How to Determine the Best Food for Your Dog
Choosing the best dog food involves considering nutritional completeness, balance, and appropriate portion sizes. Key factors include examining the food label and researching the brand’s quality and expertise.
Meets AAFCO Nutrition Standards
Ensure the dog food meets AAFCO (Association of American Feed Control Officials) nutrition standards. Look for the “complete and balanced” statement on the label, indicating it’s nutritionally sufficient as a sole diet. While AAFCO sets standards, it doesn’t regulate or approve brands, so this statement is a crucial indicator of nutritional adequacy.
Ingredients and Palatability
Focus on the nutrients rather than specific ingredients. The ingredient list, ordered by weight, highlights the primary components. Meat-based formulas often list meat sources first, while vegetable-based ones may start with grains. Both “whole chicken” and “chicken meal” are nutritious, with chicken meal being dehydrated chicken.
Nutritional Value and Proportions
Check the food’s energy density (kcal per cup/can/ounce) and feeding guidelines to ensure appropriate nutrient proportions. Commercial brands generally provide essential nutrients. Feeding amounts should be clearly labeled for your dog’s ideal weight. Monitor your dog’s weight using the Body Condition Score to maintain a healthy physique.
Your Dog’s Size, Weight, and Life Stage
Dog food should match your dog’s life stage, with puppy food for puppies and adult food for adults. Small breeds switch to adult food sooner (7-9 months) than large breeds (12-14 months). Breed-specific formulas, like those from Royal Canin, can address specific breed needs, such as joint support in large breeds.
Frequently Asked Questions
Dry vs. Wet Food
Dry food (kibble) has about 10% water, while wet food (canned) can be over 70% water. Mixing wet and dry food is acceptable, especially for picky eaters or to increase hydration. Dry food is more economical and stable for storage, while wet food can benefit dogs with dental issues or needing higher moisture intake.
Ingredients to Avoid
Garlic powder is a common palatant to avoid due to potential health risks. Also, avoid onions, raisins, grapes, and sugar-free additives, which are toxic to dogs. Dog foods with excessive dyes should also be avoided.
Grain-Free Diets
Grain-free diets, excluding wheat, barley, rye, and corn, are often chosen for presumed gluten intolerance. However, true gluten intolerance in dogs is rare. Grains provide beneficial carbohydrates, fiber, vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants. Grain-free foods may use other carbohydrate sources like potatoes and legumes. Some research suggests a link between grain-free diets and dilated cardiomyopathy in some dogs, currently under FDA investigation.
Raw Food Diets
Experts advise against raw food diets due to the risk of microbial pathogens and parasites harmful to both pets and humans. Commercial pet food is formulated to be complete and balanced, making supplements unnecessary unless prescribed by a vet. Raw meat-based diets increase the risk of harmful bacteria and potential health issues.
Dog Food Toppers
Toppers like canned pumpkin or bone broth can enhance palatability for picky eaters but should be used sparingly. They should be considered treats and factored into daily calorie intake. Overuse can lead to dogs becoming overly reliant on toppers and refusing regular food.
Dog Weight Management
Address weight gain by first reviewing the type and amount of food, treats, and table scraps your dog receives. Consult your veterinarian to rule out underlying health issues and discuss weight management food options. Veterinarians can provide tailored advice on diet and exercise to help your dog achieve and maintain a healthy weight.
