Being a responsible pet parent includes ensuring your dog receives a nutritious and balanced diet. Experts emphasize that High Quality Dog Food is fundamental to managing your dog’s weight, boosting their immune system, and contributing to their overall health and vitality. Alongside those cherished dog treats, a foundation of excellent nutrition is key to a happy and healthy canine companion.
“Commercially produced dog foods, whether canned or kibble, are meticulously formulated to fulfill your dog’s complete nutritional needs,” explains Dr. Lori Teller, a board-certified veterinarian and past president of the American Veterinary Medical Association. “These foods provide the necessary proteins, fats, carbohydrates, vitamins, and minerals in a convenient and consistent manner. Furthermore, they undergo rigorous quality control and inspection processes designed to prevent contaminants or pathogens from affecting your pets and your family.”
With years of experience writing about dogs and the specifics of dog food, I understand the overwhelming choices available. To simplify your search for high quality dog food, I’ve consulted with leading veterinarians and animal nutrition experts. Their insights, combined with practical recommendations, will guide you in selecting the best options. Below, you’ll find expert-recommended dog food brands and insights from NBC Select staffers about the foods they choose for their own beloved dogs.
Top Picks for High Quality Dog Food
- Best Dog Food for Puppies: Hill’s Science Diet Puppy Small Bites Dry Dog Food
- Best Dry Dog Food for Sensitive Stomachs: Purina Pro Plan Adult Sensitive Skin & Stomach Dry Dog Food
- Best Overall High Quality Dog Food: Royal Canin Small Breed Adult Dry Dog Food
- Best Poultry-Free Dog Food: Merrick Grain Free Real Salmon & Sweet Potato Dry Dog Food
- Best Food for Active Dogs: Purina Pro Plan Sport Performance Salmon & Cod Dry Dog Food
- Best Subscription Dog Food: The Farmer’s Dog Subscription Dog Food
- Best Dog Food for Large Breeds: Purina Pro Plan Large Breed Adult Dry Dog Food
- Best Canned Wet Dog Food: Royal Canin Adult Gastrointestinal Canned Dog Food
- Best Frozen Dog Food: Just Food For Dogs Fish & Sweet Potato
- Best Dog Food for Digestive and Joint Health: Kirkland Signature Adult Formula Chicken, Rice and Vegetable Dog Food
- Best Wet Food for Sensitive Stomachs: Hill’s Science Diet Adult Sensitive Stomach & Skin Canned Dog Food
- Best Prepared Wet Dog Food: Purina Beneful Prepared Meals Beef & Chicken Medley
Detailed Reviews of Top High Quality Dog Foods
Best Dog Food for Puppies: Hill’s Science Diet Puppy Small Bites Dry Dog Food
Image of Hill’s Science Diet Puppy Small Bites Dry Dog Food
Alt text: Bag of Hill’s Science Diet Puppy Small Bites Dry Dog Food, showcasing a veterinarian-recommended high quality puppy food option.
What We Like:
- Small kibble size, perfect for puppies.
- Supports overall puppy health and development.
- Easy to digest formula.
Things to Consider:
- Nothing significant to note.
Hill’s Science Diet Puppy Small Bites Dry Dog Food is formulated specifically for puppies up to one year old. The small kibble size is easy for young dogs to manage and digest. This high quality dog food is enriched with natural omega-3 fatty acids from fish oil, crucial for healthy brain and eye development in growing puppies. It also contains a blend of vitamin E and vitamin C to bolster their developing immune systems. Hill’s Science Diet offers this puppy food in both dry and canned formulas, providing versatile feeding options. Experts often suggest mixing canned food with dry kibble to enhance palatability and hydration.
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
Image of Purina Pro Plan Adult Sensitive Skin & Stomach Dry Dog Food
Alt text: Bag of Purina Pro Plan Adult Sensitive Skin & Stomach Dry Dog Food, highlighting salmon and rice formula for dogs with sensitivities.
What We Like:
- Easily digestible formula.
- Features novel proteins like salmon.
- Free of wheat, soy, and corn.
Things to Consider:
- Transitioning to this food may require a period of adjustment for some dogs.
- Kibble pieces are uniformly sized.
For dogs with sensitivities, Purina Pro Plan Adult Sensitive Skin & Stomach Dry Dog Food is a high quality option designed to minimize digestive issues and skin irritation. It excludes common allergens like corn, wheat, and soy, making it easier for sensitive dogs to digest. While these ingredients are often unnecessarily avoided, Purina’s formula caters to dogs with diagnosed intolerances. This food utilizes salmon as a novel protein source, which is less likely to trigger sensitivities in dogs. It’s also enriched with probiotics and prebiotic fiber to support gut health and immune function, along with omega-6 fatty acids for a healthy coat and skin.
Food type: Dry | Texture: Crunchy kibble | Calorie content: 407 kcal per cup | Main ingredients: Salmon, barley, rice, oatmeal, canola meal, fish meal
Best Overall High Quality Dog Food: Royal Canin Small Breed Adult Dry Dog Food
Image of Royal Canin Small Breed Adult Dry Dog Food
Alt text: Bag of Royal Canin Small Breed Adult Dry Dog Food, recognized as a top choice for high quality nutrition for small breed dogs.
What We Like:
- Appealing crunchy texture.
- Available in multiple kibble sizes to suit different breeds.
- Convenient resealable bag to maintain freshness.
Things to Consider:
- Nothing significant to note.
Royal Canin stands out for its diverse range of dog food options, tailoring formulas to specific dog sizes, breeds, and dietary needs. Their Small Breed Adult Dry Dog Food is a highly recommended, high quality choice. Veterinarians frequently suggest Royal Canin due to their commitment to nutritional science. The small-breed kibble is designed for adult dogs aged 10 months to 8 years, weighing between 9 and 22 pounds. Royal Canin offers formulas for extra-small, medium, large, and giant breeds, as well as puppy-specific options, demonstrating their dedication to breed-specific nutrition.
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
Image of a dog on a wood floor looking at food and water bowls
Alt text: A well-fed dog anticipates mealtime, illustrating the importance of choosing high quality dog food for canine well-being.
Royal Canin dog food is a veterinarian favorite, often recommended for its balanced nutrition and breed-specific formulations.
Best Poultry-Free Dog Food: Merrick Grain Free Real Salmon & Sweet Potato Dry Dog Food
Image of Merrick Grain Free Real Salmon & Sweet Potato Dry Dog Food
Alt text: Bag of Merrick Grain Free Real Salmon & Sweet Potato Dry Dog Food, ideal high quality, poultry-free option for dogs with sensitivities.
What We Like:
- Novel protein source from salmon.
- Suitable for dogs with poultry allergies.
- Small kibble size.
Things to Consider:
- Grain-free formula may not be necessary for all dogs unless specifically advised by a vet.
Merrick Grain Free Real Salmon & Sweet Potato Dry Dog Food is a high quality, poultry-free option, ideal for dogs with sensitive stomachs or allergies to common proteins like chicken. Studies indicate that beef and chicken are among the most frequent allergens in dogs. However, experts note that poultry allergies are not extremely common, and poultry-based foods are generally nutritious for most dogs. This Merrick formula uses salmon as a novel protein and includes sweet potato, providing a balanced, grain-free diet for dogs with specific sensitivities.
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
Image of Purina Pro Plan Sport Performance Salmon & Cod Dry Dog Food
Alt text: Bag of Purina Pro Plan Sport Performance Salmon & Cod Dry Dog Food, a high quality, high-performance food for active dogs.
What We Like:
- Helps maintain a healthy weight in active dogs.
- Appealing to picky eaters.
Things to Consider:
- Formulated for active adult dogs, not recommended for older, less active dogs.
Purina Pro Plan Sport Performance Salmon & Cod Dry Dog Food is a high quality choice for active adult dogs. This formula is specifically designed to meet the energy demands of athletic and energetic dogs. It contains glucosamine and omega-3 fatty acids to support joint health and mobility, crucial for active breeds. With a 30% protein and 20% fat ratio, it provides sustained energy levels. The salmon and cod flavor is also appealing to picky eaters, ensuring even active dogs maintain optimal nutrition. Purina Pro Plan Sport is available in various flavor combinations to suit different preferences.
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
Image of The Farmer’s Dog Subscription Dog Food
Alt text: Packaging of The Farmer’s Dog Subscription Dog Food, showcasing fresh, high quality, customized dog food delivered to your door.
What We Like:
- Convenient home delivery.
- Customized formula based on your dog’s needs.
- Easy to store and serve.
Things to Consider:
- May require a transition period for dogs used to kibble.
- Generally more expensive than traditional dog food.
The Farmer’s Dog offers a convenient subscription service delivering fresh, high quality dog food directly to your home. Their meals are pre-portioned based on each dog’s individual profile, considering age, weight, breed, activity level, and body build. This personalized approach ensures your dog receives precisely the right nutrition. The Farmer’s Dog uses human-grade ingredients and provides a questionnaire to tailor a meal plan perfectly suited to your dog’s caloric and nutritional needs. Food pouches can be stored in the fridge or freezer, simplifying meal preparation and storage.
Image of a brown dog eating fresh dog food from a white bowl
Alt text: Happy dog enjoying a meal from The Farmer’s Dog, illustrating the palatability of fresh, high quality dog food.
The Farmer’s Dog delivers fresh, high quality dog food tailored to your dog’s unique nutritional requirements, ensuring they receive optimal nourishment.
Best Dog Food for Large Breeds: Purina Pro Plan Large Breed Adult Dry Dog Food
Image of Purina Pro Plan Adult Large Dry Dog Food
Alt text: Bag of Purina Pro Plan Adult Large Breed Dry Dog Food, a high quality formula designed for the specific needs of large breed adult dogs.
What We Like:
- Helps maintain healthy weight in large breeds.
- Larger kibble size appropriate for bigger dogs.
- Good value for the size of the bag.
Things to Consider:
- Large bag sizes may be difficult to store for some.
Purina Pro Plan Large Breed Adult Dry Dog Food is formulated to meet the unique needs of larger dogs. Purina employs veterinary nutritionists to develop their high quality dog food formulas. This large breed formula is designed to support joint health, which is particularly important for larger breeds prone to joint issues. It contains natural prebiotic fiber for digestive health and omega-6 fatty acids and vitamin A for skin and coat health. Purina Pro Plan offers a range of formulas for different life stages and sizes, ensuring high quality nutrition throughout a dog’s life.
Food type: Dry | Texture: Crunchy kibble | Calorie content: 407 kcal per cup | Main ingredients: Chicken, rice, corn gluten meal, whole grain corn
Image of a large yellow lab eating dry dog food inside a crate
Alt text: A large Labrador Retriever enjoying Purina Pro Plan Large Breed dog food, highlighting a high quality diet for big dogs.
Purina Pro Plan Large Breed is a high quality dog food choice, formulated to address the specific health and dietary needs of larger dog breeds.
Best Canned Wet Dog Food: Royal Canin Adult Gastrointestinal Canned Dog Food
Image of Royal Canin Adult Gastrointestinal Canned Dog Food
Alt text: Royal Canin Adult Gastrointestinal Canned Dog Food, a high quality wet food option specifically formulated for sensitive stomachs.
What We Like:
- Excellent for dogs with sensitive stomachs.
- Low-fat formula.
- Supports gut health.
Things to Consider:
- Requires veterinarian approval to purchase.
- More expensive than some other wet food options.
- Cans are not resealable.
Royal Canin Adult Gastrointestinal Canned Dog Food is a high quality wet food option formulated for dogs with digestive sensitivities. While pricier, this low-fat formula is designed for dogs with gastrointestinal issues or sensitive stomachs. It requires veterinary approval due to its specific formulation. This wet food contains prebiotics to support beneficial gut bacteria, a blend of dietary fibers for healthy digestion, and omega-3 fatty acids from fish oil to soothe the GI tract. Royal Canin offers a variety of veterinary- формулеtested wet food options to address various health concerns, though veterinarian approval is often needed.
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
Image of Just Food For Dogs Fish & Sweet Potato
Alt text: Packaging of Just Food For Dogs Fish & Sweet Potato frozen dog food, highlighting fresh, high quality, human-grade ingredients.
What We Like:
- Made with locally sourced produce.
- Long freezer shelf life.
- Easy to store frozen pouches.
Things to Consider:
- Individually packaged portions.
- Transitioning to fresh food may require gradual introduction.
Just Food For Dogs Fish & Sweet Potato is a high quality frozen dog food option made with human-grade ingredients. This formula is high in protein and low in calories, making it suitable for overweight dogs or those with limited activity levels. Just Food For Dogs utilizes locally sourced produce and features single-protein recipes, ideal for dogs with sensitivities. Meals are formulated for all life stages and include feeding guidelines on the packaging. The frozen pouches have a long shelf life, and thawed meals remain fresh for several days in the refrigerator. The fish and sweet potato recipe is particularly beneficial for dogs with sensitive stomachs or those needing a novel protein source due to allergies.
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
Image of Kirkland Signature Adult Formula Chicken, Rice and Vegetable Dog Food
Alt text: Bag of Kirkland Signature Adult Formula Chicken, Rice and Vegetable Dog Food, a budget-friendly, high quality option for digestive and joint health.
What We Like:
- Good source of protein.
- Promotes joint health with glucosamine and chondroitin.
- Budget-friendly, offering high quality at a reasonable price.
Things to Consider:
- Only available in one bag size.
Kirkland Signature Adult Formula Chicken, Rice and Vegetable Dog Food is a high quality, budget-conscious option that doesn’t compromise on nutrition. This formula features chicken, brown rice, and vegetables, providing a balanced diet. It’s formulated with probiotics to support digestive health and glucosamine and chondroitin to aid joint health. Kirkland Signature dog food is a popular choice for pet owners seeking quality nutrition at an affordable price point.
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
Image of Hill’s Science Diet Adult Sensitive Stomach & Skin Canned Dog Food
Alt text: Cans of Hill’s Science Diet Adult Sensitive Stomach & Skin Canned Dog Food, a high quality wet food for dogs with sensitive digestion and skin.
What We Like:
- Good for dogs with multiple sensitivities.
- High moisture content for hydration.
- Can be mixed with dry food for added palatability.
Things to Consider:
- Cans are not resealable.
Hill’s Science Diet Adult Sensitive Stomach & Skin Canned Dog Food is a high quality wet food specifically designed for dogs with sensitive digestive systems. This formula is gentle on the stomach and also supports skin health. The high moisture content of wet food can be beneficial for hydration. Hill’s Science Diet wet food can be fed alone or mixed with dry kibble to enhance the meal and provide variety. It is available in turkey and rice stew, salmon, and chicken recipes to cater to different preferences.
Food type: Wet | Texture: Soft, easy to chew | Calorie content: 253 kcal/can | Main ingredients: Chicken broth, turkey, carrots, pork liver, rice, chicken
Image of a small white dog eating dog food from a bowl
Alt text: A small dog enjoying Hill’s Science Diet Sensitive Stomach wet food, showcasing a palatable and high quality option for sensitive dogs.
Hill’s Science Diet Sensitive Stomach wet food is a veterinarian-recommended, high quality option for dogs requiring a gentle and easily digestible diet.
Best Prepared Wet Dog Food: Purina Beneful Prepared Meals Beef & Chicken Medley
Image of Purina Beneful Prepared Meals Beef & Chicken Medley
Alt text: Purina Beneful Prepared Meals Beef & Chicken Medley tubs, a convenient and palatable high quality wet dog food choice.
What We Like:
- Flavorful and appealing to dogs.
- Resealable container for freshness.
- Can be served as a complete meal or topper.
Things to Consider:
- Nothing significant to note.
Purina Beneful Prepared Meals Beef & Chicken Medley offers a convenient and palatable high quality wet food option. This prepared meal features vegetables, real beef, chicken chunks, and rice in a stew. It is a complete and balanced meal, suitable for serving alone or as a flavorful topper to dry kibble. The resealable container helps maintain freshness after opening. Purina Beneful Prepared Meals are a convenient way to add variety and moisture to your dog’s diet.
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
How to Choose High Quality Dog Food for Your Dog
Selecting high quality dog food involves considering several key factors to ensure your dog’s nutritional needs are met. The most crucial aspects are nutritional completeness and balance, and appropriate portion sizes based on your dog’s individual needs.
Understanding Dog Food Labels for High Quality Choices
When evaluating dog food, pay close attention to the information provided on the label. The nutritional adequacy statement from the Association of American Feed Control Officials (AAFCO) is essential. This statement indicates the dog species and life stage the food is formulated for (e.g., puppy, adult, senior) and how this claim is substantiated (either through formulation or feeding trials). A “complete and balanced” statement signifies that the food is designed to be the sole source of nutrition for your dog.
Beyond the label, consider the brand’s commitment to quality. The World Small Animal Veterinary Association (WSAVA) recommends researching the brand to determine the expertise behind their formulations and manufacturing processes. Do they employ veterinarians or board-certified veterinary nutritionists? Does the company conduct routine analysis of finished products for nutrient content and potential contaminants? Brands that invest in research and employ qualified professionals are more likely to produce high quality dog food.
Key Factors for Selecting High Quality Dog Food:
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AAFCO Nutritional Standards: Any high quality dog food should meet AAFCO standards. Look for the “complete and balanced” statement on the label, which assures the food is nutritionally adequate as a sole diet. While AAFCO sets standards, it’s a voluntary membership association and does not regulate or approve individual dog food brands.
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Ingredients and Palatability: While ingredient lists are important, focus on the nutritional value derived from those ingredients. The ingredient list is ordered by weight, with the first few ingredients being the most prominent. This helps you identify if the food is primarily meat-based or vegetable-based. Both whole and processed ingredients can be nutritious; for example, “chicken meal” is simply dehydrated chicken and is a concentrated source of protein.
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Nutritional Value and Proportions: Check the food’s energy density (calories per cup, can, or ounce) and the feeding guidelines. High quality commercial dog foods are formulated to provide all essential nutrients. Feeding guidelines should be clearly labeled for your dog’s ideal weight. Monitor your dog’s weight using the Body Condition Score, a visual scale to assess body fat. Maintaining a healthy weight is crucial for your dog’s longevity and well-being.
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Dog’s Size, Weight, and Life Stage: Choose dog food appropriate for your dog’s life stage (puppy, adult, senior). Puppy food is essential for growth until they reach adult weight. Small breeds may switch to adult food earlier than large breeds. Consider breed-specific formulas, especially from brands like Royal Canin, which can cater to the predispositions of certain breeds. However, always verify that breed-specific formulas offer genuine nutritional benefits beyond marketing.
Frequently Asked Questions About High Quality Dog Food
What’s the difference between dry and wet dog food?
The primary difference is water content. Dry kibble contains around 10% water, while canned wet food can be upwards of 70% water. If both dry and wet food are nutritionally balanced, mixing them is acceptable, especially for picky eaters or to increase hydration. Dry food is generally more economical and has a longer shelf life when stored properly. Wet food may be beneficial for dogs with dental issues or those needing higher moisture intake due to health conditions.
What ingredients should I avoid in dog food?
While most commercial dog foods are safe, some ingredients are best avoided. Garlic powder, used as a palatant, can pose health risks. Onions, raisins, grapes, and sugar-free additives are toxic to dogs. Avoid foods heavily laden with artificial dyes.
Are grain-free dog foods better?
Grain-free formulas exclude wheat, barley, rye, and corn, often marketed as healthier. However, grain-free diets are not inherently superior for most dogs. True gluten intolerance in dogs is rare. Grains, including corn, provide valuable carbohydrates, fiber, vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants. Grain-free foods often replace grains with other carbohydrates like potatoes and legumes. Some research suggests a potential link between certain grain-free diets and dilated cardiomyopathy (DCM) in dogs, though investigations are ongoing. Unless your veterinarian advises a grain-free diet for specific medical reasons, grains are generally beneficial in high quality dog food.
Is a raw food diet a high quality choice for dogs?
Experts generally advise against raw food diets. The American Veterinary Medical Association (AVMA) discourages feeding raw animal-source protein due to the risk of pathogens that can harm both pets and humans. Commercially prepared, balanced dog food is designed to meet nutritional needs without the risks associated with raw diets. Raw meat can harbor harmful bacteria and parasites. Hard bones in raw diets can also cause obstructions or injuries.
Are dog food toppers necessary?
Dog food toppers, such as canned pumpkin or bone broth, can enhance palatability for picky eaters. However, they should be used sparingly and not as a daily routine, as dogs may become reliant on toppers. If your dog is eating a balanced diet, toppers are generally unnecessary unless recommended by a vet. Toppers should be factored into your dog’s overall calorie intake as treats.
What should I do if my dog is gaining weight?
Address weight gain by first evaluating the type and amount of food your dog consumes daily, including treats and table scraps. Consult your veterinarian to rule out underlying health issues and discuss adjusting your dog’s diet or switching to a weight management formula.
How much high quality dog food should I feed my dog?
Calorie needs vary based on breed, weight, size, activity level, and metabolism. Consult the WSAVA calorie chart for general guidelines, but always discuss your dog’s specific caloric needs with your veterinarian for personalized recommendations.
Image of a medium-sized black dog eating dry kibble from a snuffle mat
Alt text: Dog using a snuffle mat to eat kibble, demonstrating a slow-feeding method that can be used with high quality dry dog food.
Using a snuffle mat or slow feeder can encourage mindful eating, even when feeding high quality, palatable dog food.
Meet Our Experts
- Dr. Lori Teller: Board-certified veterinarian and immediate past president of the American Veterinary Medical Association.
- Dr. Brian Roberts: Board-certified veterinarian and regional medical director at VCA Animal Hospitals.
- Dr. Joe Wakshlag: Professor of clinical nutrition and sports medicine and rehabilitation at Cornell College of Veterinary Medicine.
- Dr. Richard Hill: Board-certified veterinary nutritionist and associate professor at the University of Florida Department of Small Animal Clinical Sciences.
- Dr. Kristin Michael: Board-certified veterinarian and medical director at VCA Liberty Animal Hospital.
Why Trust Our High Quality Dog Food Recommendations?
I am an updates editor at NBC Select with extensive experience writing about pet care, including dog treats, toys, travel, and car safety. For this guide to high quality dog food, I consulted with six leading veterinarians and veterinary nutritionists. My goal is to provide thoroughly researched and expert-backed recommendations to help you make informed decisions about your dog’s nutrition.
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