Being a responsible pet parent means prioritizing your dog’s health, and a cornerstone of that is providing them with a nutritious diet. Experts emphasize that the right food is essential for a dog’s overall well-being, contributing to everything from maintaining a healthy weight to bolstering a strong immune system. Just like humans, dogs thrive when their meals are balanced and packed with the right nutrients.
“Commercially processed dog foods, whether canned or kibble, are expertly formulated to meet the complete nutritional needs of dogs,” explains Dr. Lori Teller, a board-certified veterinarian and past president of the American Veterinary Medical Association. “These foods offer convenience, consistency, and wide availability. They also undergo rigorous quality control and inspection processes designed to prevent contamination and protect the health of both pets and their owners.”
With years of experience writing about canine health and nutrition, and specifically dog food, I’ve consulted with leading veterinarians and animal nutrition specialists to guide you through the crucial factors to consider when selecting the best healthy dog food. Below, you’ll find expert-recommended dog food brands, along with selections favored by NBC Select staff for their own beloved pets.
EXPLORE EXPERT PICKS: Key Factors in Choosing Dog Food | Top Healthy Dog Food Choices | Determining the Ideal Food for Your Dog
Expertly Selected Healthy Dog Food Options
Related Reads
How Often Should You Bathe Your Dog? Breed-Specific Bathing Guides
Stay Informed with NBC Select: Sign up for our newsletter for smart shopping advice and expert recommendations delivered directly to your inbox.
Key Factors in Choosing Healthy Dog Food
When deciding on the right healthy dog food, veterinary experts recommend focusing on these key aspects to ensure your canine companion receives optimal nutrition:
Top Healthy Dog Food Choices for 2025
The following list features dog food options that align with expert nutritional guidance and are trusted by NBC Select staff for their own dogs, ensuring your pet gets the healthiest meals possible.
Best Healthy Dog Food for Puppies: Hill’s Science Diet Puppy Small Bites Dry Dog Food
Hill’s Science Diet Puppy Small Bites Dry Dog Food
What Makes it Healthy:
- Small Kibble Size: Ideal for puppy mouths and easy chewing.
- Supports Puppy Development: Formulated for overall healthy growth in puppies.
- Digestible Formula: Gentle on young, sensitive stomachs.
Considerations:
- No significant drawbacks reported.
Hill’s Science Diet Puppy food is specifically designed for puppies up to one year old, featuring small, digestible kibble perfect for developing digestive systems. This healthy dog food is enriched with natural omega-3 fatty acids from fish oil to support healthy brain and eye development, vital during the crucial puppy stage. It also includes a blend of vitamin E and vitamin C to strengthen their developing immune systems. Available in 4.5- and 12.5-pound bags, Hill’s also offers a canned puppy formula that experts recommend as a beneficial addition to dry food, enhancing both flavor and nutritional intake.
Food Type: Dry | Texture: Crunchy kibble | Calorie Content: 393 kcal per cup | Main Ingredients: Chicken, Brown Rice, Whole Grain Wheat
Best Healthy Dry Dog Food for Sensitive Stomachs: Purina Pro Plan Adult Sensitive Skin & Stomach Dry Dog Food
Purina Pro Plan Adult Sensitive Skin & Stomach Dry Dog Food
What Makes it Healthy:
- Highly Digestible: Formulated for easy digestion, minimizing stomach upset.
- Novel Protein Source: Features salmon, a less common protein source, beneficial for sensitivities.
- Free of Common Irritants: Excludes wheat, soy, and corn, common allergens for some dogs.
Considerations:
- Transition may require gradual introduction.
- Kibble size is uniform, which may not be ideal for all breeds.
For dogs with sensitivities, Purina Pro Plan Sensitive Skin & Stomach formula is a top healthy dog food choice. It’s designed to alleviate symptoms like itching, digestive issues, and occasional vomiting often associated with food sensitivities. By excluding corn, wheat, and soy, it reduces potential allergens, making it easier to digest. However, experts note these ingredients are only problematic if your dog has a confirmed intolerance, as they can provide valuable nutrients. This formula uses salmon as a primary protein source, which is considered a novel protein, often beneficial for sensitive stomachs. It also contains probiotics and prebiotic fiber to support healthy digestion and immune function, along with omega-6 fatty acids for skin and coat health.
Food Type: Dry | Texture: Crunchy kibble | Calorie Content: 407 kcal per cup | Main Ingredients: Salmon, Barley, Rice, Oatmeal, Canola Meal, Fish Meal
Best Overall Healthy Dog Food: Royal Canin Small Breed Adult Dry Dog Food
Royal Canin Small Breed Adult Dry Dog Food
What Makes it Healthy:
- Crunchy Texture: Promotes dental health through chewing action.
- Tailored Kibble Sizes: Available in multiple sizes to suit different breeds.
- Convenient Packaging: Features a resealable bag to maintain freshness.
Considerations:
- No significant drawbacks reported.
Royal Canin stands out for its wide range of healthy dog food options, catering to specific needs based on dog size, breed, and dietary requirements. They offer both dry and wet food formulas designed for various conditions, including food sensitivities and gastrointestinal issues. Recommended by veterinarians, Royal Canin Small Breed Adult Dry Dog Food is a popular choice. The kibble is specifically formulated for small dogs aged 10 months to 8 years, weighing between 9 and 22 pounds. The brand also offers breed-specific formulas and sizes ranging from extra-small to giant breeds, as well as puppy formulas, ensuring every dog can find a nutritionally appropriate and healthy meal.
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 as a healthy option for dogs.
Best Poultry-Free Healthy Dog Food: Merrick Grain Free Real Salmon & Sweet Potato Dry Dog Food
Merrick Grain Free Real Salmon & Sweet Potato Dry Dog Food
What Makes it Healthy:
- Novel Protein Source: Salmon-based, reducing risk of reactions to common poultry proteins.
- Allergy-Friendly: Ideal for dogs with poultry sensitivities or allergies.
- Small Kibble Size: Easy for dogs of all sizes to manage.
Considerations:
- Grain-free formula may not be necessary for all dogs unless specifically advised by a vet.
Merrick Grain Free Salmon & Sweet Potato recipe is an excellent healthy dog food for dogs with sensitive stomachs or allergies, particularly to poultry. Studies indicate that beef and chicken are among the most common allergens in dogs. This formula uses salmon as a novel protein source, which can be less allergenic for many dogs. Dr. Joe Wakshlag, a professor of clinical nutrition at Cornell College of Veterinary Medicine, notes that while poultry allergies exist, most dogs do not need to avoid chicken and turkey unless an allergy or intolerance is suspected. This grain-free option provides a balanced diet while minimizing potential allergic reactions from poultry.
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 Healthy Dog Food for Active Dogs: Purina Pro Plan Sport Performance Salmon & Cod Dry Dog Food
Purina Pro Plan Sport Performance Salmon & Cod Dry Dog Food
What Makes it Healthy:
- Supports Energy Needs: High protein and fat content to fuel active lifestyles.
- Maintains Joint Health: Contains glucosamine and omega-3 fatty acids, crucial for active dogs.
- Palatable Flavors: Appealing even to picky eaters, ensuring they get necessary nutrition.
Considerations:
- Not specifically formulated for senior dogs with lower energy needs.
Purina Pro Plan Sport Performance is designed to meet the high energy demands of active adult dogs, making it a healthy dog food choice for athletic breeds or highly energetic pets. This formula features glucosamine and omega-3 fatty acids to support joint health and mobility, essential for dogs that engage in regular exercise. With a 30% protein and 20% fat ratio, it provides sustained energy levels. Available in various flavor combinations like salmon and cod, turkey, duck, and quail, and beef and bison, it caters to different taste preferences, ensuring even picky eaters receive the nutrition they require to stay active and healthy.
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 Healthy Dog Food: The Farmer’s Dog Subscription Dog Food
The Farmer’s Dog Subscription Dog Food
What Makes it Healthy:
- Fresh, Human-Grade Ingredients: High-quality, fresh food delivered to your door.
- Customized Meal Plans: Portions and recipes tailored to your dog’s specific needs.
- Convenient Delivery: Regular deliveries ensure you never run out of healthy food.
Considerations:
- May require a gradual transition for dogs used to kibble.
- Generally more expensive than traditional dry or canned foods.
The Farmer’s Dog offers a convenient subscription service delivering fresh, healthy dog food right to your doorstep. Meals are prepared with human-grade ingredients and pre-portioned based on each dog’s unique profile, considering factors like age, weight, breed, and activity level. This personalized approach ensures your dog receives precisely the right balance of calories and nutrients for optimal health. Food pouches can be stored in the fridge or freezer, maintaining freshness and quality. Many dog owners report significant improvements in their dogs’ palatability and enthusiasm for meals after switching to The Farmer’s Dog, making it a top choice for a healthy and convenient diet.
Fresh dog food like The Farmer’s Dog can be a very palatable and healthy option for many dogs.
Best Healthy Dog Food for Large Breeds: Purina Pro Plan Large Breed Adult Dry Dog Food
Purina Pro Plan Adult Large Breed Dry Dog Food
What Makes it Healthy:
- Weight Management Formula: Helps large breeds maintain a healthy weight, reducing joint stress.
- Large Kibble Size: Designed for larger mouths, encouraging slower eating.
- Good Value: Economical option for feeding large breed dogs.
Considerations:
- Larger bag sizes may require more storage space.
Purina Pro Plan Large Breed Adult Dry Dog Food is specifically formulated to meet the unique nutritional needs of large breed dogs. Purina employs veterinary nutritionists to develop their formulas, ensuring a focus on health and well-being. This formula includes prebiotic fiber for digestive health and omega-6 fatty acids and vitamin A for skin and coat health. For less active or senior large breeds, Purina also offers a weight management formula with an optimized protein-to-fat ratio to help maintain a healthy weight as activity levels decrease with age. This specialized nutrition makes it a healthy dog food choice for larger companions.
Food Type: Dry | Texture: Crunchy kibble | Calorie Content: 407 kcal per cup | Main Ingredients: Chicken, Rice, Corn Gluten Meal, Whole Grain Corn
Weight management formulas are important for senior or less active large breed dogs to maintain healthy body condition.
Best Healthy Canned Wet Dog Food: Royal Canin Adult Gastrointestinal Canned Dog Food
Royal Canin Adult Gastrointestinal Canned Dog Food – 24 Pack
What Makes it Healthy:
- Ideal for Sensitive Stomachs: Gentle formula for dogs with digestive issues.
- Low-Fat Content: Suitable for dogs needing a lower fat diet.
- Promotes Gut Health: Contains prebiotics to support beneficial gut bacteria.
Considerations:
- Requires veterinary approval for purchase.
- More expensive than many other canned options.
- Cans are not resealable.
For pet owners who prefer wet food, Royal Canin offers a range of veterinarian-formulated options, including Royal Canin Adult Gastrointestinal Canned Dog Food. This low-fat formula is designed for dogs with gastrointestinal sensitivities or stomach issues. It includes prebiotics to maintain healthy gut flora, a blend of dietary fibers to support digestion, and omega-3 fatty acids from fish oil to soothe the GI tract. While it requires veterinary approval due to its specific formulation for sensitive conditions, it is a highly recommended healthy wet food option for dogs with digestive challenges. Royal Canin also provides other veterinary-approved wet foods for concerns like weight loss, digestive care, and joint care.
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 Healthy Frozen Dog Food: Just Food For Dogs Fish & Sweet Potato
Just Food For Dogs Fish & Sweet Potato
What Makes it Healthy:
- High-Quality, Fresh Ingredients: Made with locally sourced produce.
- Long Shelf Life (Frozen): Can be stored frozen for up to 18 months.
- Single Protein Source Options: Limited ingredient diets available, beneficial for sensitivities.
Considerations:
- Individually packaged, which can create more waste.
- Gradual transition recommended when introducing frozen food.
Just Food For Dogs offers frozen, fresh dog food pouches with a focus on high-protein, low-calorie recipes. This makes it a healthy dog food choice for overweight dogs or those with limited exercise. They use locally sourced produce and offer options with single protein sources like venison, lamb, and turkey, which can be beneficial for dogs with food sensitivities. The Fish & Sweet Potato recipe is specifically designed to provide a balanced diet for dogs with sensitive stomachs or those needing a novel protein source due to allergies. Just Food For Dogs also offers variety packs for dogs to sample different recipes and find their favorites.
Food Type: Fresh | Texture: Soft, easy to chew | Calorie Content: 26 kcal per ounce | Main Ingredients: Cod, Sweet Potatoes, Potatoes, Green Beans, Broccoli
Best Healthy 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
What Makes it Healthy:
- Good Protein Source: Chicken-based formula provides essential protein.
- Joint Support: Contains glucosamine and chondroitin for joint health.
- Budget-Friendly: Economical option without compromising nutritional value.
Considerations:
- Only available in one bag size (large 40-lb bag).
Kirkland Signature Adult Formula is a reliable and healthy dry dog food, particularly noted for being gentle on sensitive stomachs. This formula includes probiotics to support digestive health and glucosamine and chondroitin to promote healthy joints, beneficial for adult dogs and especially older dogs. Many dog owners find it to be a palatable option that their dogs tolerate well, even with sensitive digestive systems. Kirkland Signature also offers a small breed formula, catering to different dog sizes and nutritional needs.
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 Healthy 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 – 12 Pack
What Makes it Healthy:
- Formulated for Sensitivities: Designed for both stomach and skin sensitivities.
- High Moisture Content: Wet food helps with hydration.
- Versatile Feeding: Can be mixed with dry food or served alone.
Considerations:
- Cans are not resealable, requiring use of entire can or storage in another container after opening.
Hill’s Science Diet Adult Sensitive Stomach & Skin Canned Dog Food is an excellent healthy wet food option, especially for dogs with sensitive stomachs. This formula is designed to be gentle and easily digestible, minimizing digestive upset. The high moisture content of wet food also contributes to hydration. Available in turkey and rice stew, salmon, and chicken recipes, it offers variety for picky eaters while maintaining a focus on digestive health. It can be served as a complete meal or mixed with dry kibble to enhance palatability and moisture intake.
Food Type: Wet | Texture: Soft, easy to chew | Calorie Content: 253 kcal/can | Main Ingredients: Chicken Broth, Turkey, Carrots, Pork Liver, Rice, Chicken
Mixing wet food with dry kibble can increase palatability and hydration for dogs, particularly those with sensitive stomachs.
Best Healthy Prepared Wet Dog Food: Purina Beneful Prepared Meals Beef & Chicken Medley
Purina Beneful Prepared Meals Beef & Chicken Medley
What Makes it Healthy:
- Flavor Appeal: Dogs generally find the flavor very palatable, encouraging eating.
- Resealable Container: Convenient tubs are resealable for freshness.
- Complete and Balanced Meal: Can be served as a full meal or as a topper.
Considerations:
- No significant drawbacks reported.
Purina Beneful Prepared Meals offer a convenient and palatable wet food option that can be a healthy addition to your dog’s diet. Featuring real beef, chicken, vegetables, and rice in a stew, it provides a balanced meal that dogs often enjoy. The resealable tubs are convenient for portioning and storage. While it can be served as a complete and balanced meal on its own, it also works well as a flavorful topper to mix with dry kibble, encouraging picky eaters and adding variety to their 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 Determine the Best Healthy Food for Your Dog
Choosing a healthy dog food goes beyond just brand names. The two most critical factors in determining if a dog food is truly healthy are its nutritional completeness and balance, and ensuring you are feeding your dog appropriate portions based on their individual needs. When selecting food for your pet, consider both the information provided on the label and the broader aspects of the brand and its quality.
The nutritional adequacy statement from AAFCO (Association of American Feed Control Officials) on the label is crucial. This statement indicates the species and life stage for which the food is formulated and how that claim is substantiated, either through formulation or feeding trials. However, equally important is what’s not on the label. The World Small Animal Veterinary Association (WSAVA) Global Nutrition Guidelines recommend researching the brand itself. Investigate the professionals involved in formulating and manufacturing the food and whether the company routinely analyzes its finished products for nutrient content and potential contaminants.
“Does the company employ veterinarians, and specifically, board-certified veterinary nutritionists?” asks Dr. Brian Roberts, a board-certified veterinarian with VCA Animal Hospitals. “Brands committed to producing the best diets invest in extensive research and development.”
Here are key considerations from experts to guide you in choosing high-quality, healthy dog food:
Meets AAFCO Nutrition Standards
Experts universally agree that healthy dog food must meet AAFCO nutritional standards. “You can verify if a pet food meets your pet’s nutritional needs by checking the nutritional adequacy statement on the label,” advises Dr. Roberts. “If it includes the phrase ‘complete and balanced,’ the product is designed to be the sole diet and is nutritionally balanced for the intended life stage.”
Dr. Wakshlag emphasizes the role of AAFCO in ensuring nutritional completeness. The FDA also recognizes the nutritional adequacy statement as a critical component of pet food labeling. This statement, usually found in smaller print on the back of the packaging, confirms that the food is formulated to meet established nutritional guidelines.
While AAFCO sets nutritional standards, it’s important to note that AAFCO itself does not regulate, test, approve, or certify pet foods. Therefore, claims of “AAFCO approved” are inaccurate.
Ingredients and Palatability
When selecting healthy dog food, focusing on the nutrients provided is more important than specific ingredients. Dr. Richard Hill, a board-certified veterinary nutritionist at the University of Florida, points out that dog owners should prioritize the nutritional value derived from the ingredients rather than getting caught up in ingredient trends.
However, the ingredient list still offers valuable insights. AAFCO mandates that ingredients be listed in descending order by weight, meaning the first few ingredients listed are the most abundant. This helps you determine if the food is primarily meat-based (e.g., chicken, fish, lamb) or vegetable-based (e.g., corn, brown rice).
AAFCO has also established safety standards for ingredients used in pet food and provides guidelines for common pet food labeling terms.
“While some believe ‘natural’ ingredients like whole chicken are superior to processed ingredients like chicken meal, both originate from the same source,” clarifies Dr. Roberts. “Chicken meal is simply dehydrated chicken, a concentrated source of protein.”
Nutritional Value and Proportions
To ensure your dog receives the correct nutrients in proper proportions, check the food’s energy density, typically listed as kcal (calories) per cup, can, or ounce, similar to nutrition labels on human food. Also, carefully review the feeding guidelines provided by the manufacturer.
“Generally, commercially prepared dog foods are formulated to contain all the essential nutrients dogs need for healthy bodily functions,” states Dr. Kristin Michael, a board-certified veterinarian at VCA Liberty Animal Hospital. “Each brand and type of dog food should provide clear feeding amounts based on your dog’s ideal weight.”
After determining the appropriate feeding amount, monitor your dog’s weight using the Body Condition Score, a visual scale that assesses body fat. Veterinarians use this scale to evaluate a dog’s body condition during check-ups and track it over time. Maintaining a healthy weight is crucial, as obesity is a prevalent nutritional disease in dogs and can significantly reduce lifespan in some breeds, according to Dr. Hill. Overfeeding is a common issue, often stemming from misinterpreting feeding guidelines or not accounting for treats and extra snacks.
Your Dog’s Size, Weight, and Life Stage
A healthy dog food should be appropriate for your dog’s life stage. Puppy food, for example, is formulated to support growth and development and should be fed until a puppy reaches its adult weight. Small breeds may transition to adult food around 7-9 months, while larger breeds may need puppy food until 12-14 months, according to the American Kennel Club. Giant breeds may benefit from puppy food even longer, up to 1.5 years. For healthy senior dogs eating a balanced diet, there’s generally no need to switch to a senior-specific food unless recommended by a vet.
Dog foods labeled for small, medium, or large breeds often primarily differ in kibble size to suit different mouth sizes. However, some brands like Royal Canin offer breed-specific formulas that consider the unique nutritional needs predispositions of certain breeds. Dr. Roberts notes that manufacturers focusing on nutritional science develop diets tailored to breed-specific health concerns, such as joint problems common in large and giant breeds. Always check the ingredient list and nutritional content to ensure breed-specific formulas genuinely benefit your dog and are not just marketing ploys.
Frequently Asked Questions About Healthy Dog Foods
What is the difference between dry and wet dog food in terms of health?
The primary difference between dry kibble and canned wet dog food is water content. Kibble typically contains about 10% water, while canned food can be upwards of 70% water, explains Dr. Roberts. Nutritionally, if both types contain the same ingredients (excluding water), they can be equally healthy. Mixing wet food with dry food is acceptable and can be beneficial, especially for picky eaters or dogs needing extra hydration. Adding dog-safe fresh vegetables and fruits as toppers or treats can also boost nutritional value without significantly increasing calories, as long as kibble intake remains consistent.
Dry food offers economic advantages and is generally more shelf-stable when stored properly in a dry environment. Wet food, once opened, must be refrigerated and has a shorter shelf life. A diet solely of wet food may be beneficial for dogs with dental issues making kibble chewing difficult or for those needing increased hydration due to health conditions.
Are there any ingredients to avoid in Healthy Dog Foods?
Garlic powder is one ingredient commonly used in commercial pet food as a palatant to enhance flavor but can pose health risks in large quantities, according to Dr. Michael. Onions, raisins, grapes, and sugar-free additives like xylitol are also toxic to dogs and should be strictly avoided, though they are rarely found in commercial dog food. Excessive artificial dyes, often used to enhance the visual appeal of dog food, are also best avoided in favor of more natural options.
Is grain-free dog food healthier?
Grain-free formulas, excluding grains like wheat, barley, rye, and corn, are often marketed as healthier. However, unless your dog has a diagnosed grain intolerance (gluten intolerance is rare in dogs), grain-free is not inherently healthier. In fact, eliminating grains without veterinary advice can sometimes lead to nutritional imbalances.
Dr. Roberts emphasizes that grains are not just fillers but valuable sources of carbohydrates, fiber, vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants. Dr. Hill agrees that moderate carbohydrate intake is healthy for dogs. Grain-free foods often substitute grains with other carbohydrate sources like potatoes and legumes, so they aren’t necessarily low-carb.
Furthermore, the FDA is investigating a potential link between some grain-free diets and dilated cardiomyopathy (DCM) in dogs, though the exact cause is still under investigation. It’s unclear whether specific ingredients or overall quality control issues are to blame. Therefore, unless your veterinarian recommends a grain-free diet for a specific medical reason, grains are generally not harmful and can be part of a healthy dog food formula.
What about raw food diets? Are they healthy for dogs?
Raw food diets, consisting of uncooked meats, eggs, fruits, and vegetables, are sometimes chosen by dog owners who believe them to be more natural. However, experts advise against raw diets due to potential health risks. Dr. Teller from the AVMA states that the AVMA discourages feeding dogs uncooked animal-source protein because of the risk of pathogens to both pets and humans. Commercially available, complete and balanced dog foods are designed to provide all necessary nutrients, making supplements unnecessary unless specifically prescribed by a veterinarian.
Raw meat-based diets carry a higher risk of microbial pathogens, antibiotic-resistant bacteria, and other harmful factors. Harmful bacteria and parasites in raw diets can not only affect your dog but also pose a risk to you and your family through transmission. Hard bones, often included in raw diets, can cause intestinal obstructions or splinter, leading to serious emergencies. Freeze-dried meat “boosters” added to kibble also carry similar risks.
Are dog food toppers healthy?
Dog food toppers, like canned pumpkin, blueberries, or bone broth, are often used to enhance palatability, especially for picky eaters. While they can make food more appealing, toppers should be used sparingly and not as a daily routine. Over-reliance on toppers can lead to dogs refusing to eat their regular balanced food without them. Dr. Teller advises that toppers are generally not recommended if your dog is already eating a complete and balanced commercial diet, unless specifically advised by a veterinarian. Toppers should be considered treats and factored into your dog’s overall daily calorie intake.
What should I do if my dog is gaining too much weight?
If you notice your dog gaining weight or falling outside the ideal Body Condition Score range, the first step is to reassess their diet and calorie intake. Consider all food sources, including treats, table scraps, and food from other household members or pets. Consult your veterinarian to discuss the weight gain. They can rule out underlying medical conditions and recommend an appropriate weight management food if necessary. Adjusting portion sizes and limiting treats are often key to managing a dog’s weight effectively.
How much healthy dog food should I feed my dog daily?
There’s no single answer to how much food your dog needs, as it depends on breed, weight, size, activity level, and metabolism. WSAVA provides a calorie chart for healthy adult dogs up to 108 pounds based on National Research Council guidelines. However, individual needs vary significantly. Consulting your veterinarian is crucial to determine your dog’s specific caloric needs and appropriate portion sizes for healthy feeding.
Meet Our Experts
At NBC Select, we collaborate with experts who possess specialized knowledge and authority in their respective fields, ensuring that our recommendations are based on credible expertise. We prioritize independent advice, free from undisclosed financial conflicts of interest.
Why Trust NBC Select?
I am an updates editor at NBC Select with extensive experience writing about pet products and care, including dog treats, toys, carriers, and car safety. For this guide to healthy dog foods, I consulted with six veterinarians and veterinary nutritionists and researched numerous dog food options to bring you expert-backed, trustworthy recommendations.
Explore more in-depth coverage from NBC Select on tech and tools, wellness and beyond. Follow us on Facebook, Instagram, Twitter and TikTok for the latest updates.
