Being a responsible dog owner goes hand in hand with ensuring your furry friend receives the best possible nutrition. Just like humans, dogs thrive on a balanced diet that fuels their energy, supports their immune system, and contributes to their overall well-being. Experts emphasize that the right dog food is crucial for everything from maintaining a healthy weight to building strong defenses against illness.
“Commercially available dog foods, whether canned or kibble, are expertly formulated to provide the complete spectrum of nutrients dogs require,” explains Dr. Lori Teller, a board-certified veterinarian and past president of the American Veterinary Medical Association. “These foods offer convenience, consistency, and are readily accessible. Furthermore, they undergo rigorous quality control and inspection processes designed to identify and eliminate potential contaminants or pathogens before they can harm pets or their owners.”
With years of experience covering pet care and specifically delving into the world of dog food, I’ve consulted with leading veterinarians and animal nutrition specialists to distill the essential factors to consider when choosing the best dog food for your canine companion. Below, you’ll find expert-backed recommendations for top dog food brands, including options favored by NBC Select staff members for their own beloved pets.
IN THIS GUIDE
- Key Factors in Choosing Dog Food
- Top Dog Food Picks for 2024
- How to Select the Right Food for Your Dog
- Frequently Asked Questions About Dog Food
- Meet Our Veterinary Experts
- Why Trust Our Recommendations?
Key Factors in Choosing Dog Food
When navigating the vast landscape of dog food options, it’s helpful to focus on key criteria recommended by veterinary professionals. These factors will guide you in making an informed decision to ensure your dog’s dietary needs are met.
[
Top Dog Food Picks for 2024](#top-dog-food-picks-for-2024)
Our recommendations are based on expert guidance and real-world experiences from pet owners. These brands represent high-quality options catering to various needs and preferences.
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 packaging.
What we like:
- Small, easily digestible kibble perfect for puppies.
- Formulated to support overall puppy health and development.
- Gentle on sensitive puppy stomachs.
Considerations:
- Specifically designed for puppies up to 1 year old.
Hill’s Science Diet Puppy Small Bites Dry Dog Food is a top choice for puppies in their crucial growth phase. This formula features small kibble pieces that are easy for young dogs to chew and digest. It’s enriched with natural omega-3 fatty acids from fish oil to promote healthy brain and eye development, vital for learning and cognitive function during puppyhood. Additionally, a blend of vitamin E and vitamin C helps bolster a puppy’s developing immune system, providing essential protection during their early months. Hill’s Science Diet also offers a canned puppy food option, which experts often recommend mixing with dry food to enhance palatability and moisture content.
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
Purina Pro Plan Adult Sensitive Skin & Stomach Dry Dog Food product packaging.
What we like:
- Formulated for easy digestion, ideal for sensitive stomachs.
- Features novel proteins like salmon, often well-tolerated by sensitive dogs.
- Free from common allergens like wheat, soy, and corn.
Considerations:
- Transitioning to a sensitive stomach formula may require gradual introduction.
- Kibble size is uniform, which may not suit all preferences.
Purina Pro Plan Adult Sensitive Skin & Stomach Dry Dog Food is specifically designed for dogs with sensitivities. Food sensitivities can manifest in various ways, including excessive itching, digestive upset, and occasional vomiting. This formula excludes corn, wheat, and soy, common culprits in dog food sensitivities. However, experts note that these ingredients are not inherently harmful and should only be avoided if your dog has a diagnosed intolerance. The formula prioritizes easily digestible ingredients, featuring high-protein salmon as a novel protein source. Novel proteins, less common in typical dog diets, are often beneficial for dogs with sensitivities. It also includes probiotics and prebiotic fiber to promote a healthy gut microbiome and digestive function, along with omega-6 fatty acids to support 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 Dog Food: Royal Canin Small Breed Adult Dry Dog Food
Royal Canin Small Breed Adult Dry Dog Food bag.
What we like:
- Appealing crunchy texture for many dogs.
- Kibble available in various sizes to suit different breeds.
- Convenient resealable bag for freshness.
Considerations:
- None noted at this time.
Royal Canin stands out for its extensive range of dog food options, catering to diverse needs based on breed, size, and specific dietary requirements. They offer both dry and wet dog food formulations, including specialized diets for food sensitivities and gastrointestinal issues. Royal Canin Small Breed Adult Dry Dog Food is a particularly popular choice, recommended by veterinarians and favored by picky eaters. The kibble is designed for small breed dogs aged 10 months to 8 years, weighing between 9 and 22 pounds. Royal Canin also offers breed-specific formulas and size-specific options for extra-small, medium, large breeds and giant breeds, and even a puppy formula.
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
A dog eagerly anticipates mealtime, looking at a food bowl.
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 packaging.
What we like:
- Utilizes novel proteins like salmon, beneficial for dogs with allergies.
- Excellent for dogs with poultry sensitivities or allergies.
- Small kibble size suitable for various breeds.
Considerations:
- Grain-free formulas may not be necessary or beneficial for all dogs.
Merrick Grain Free Real Salmon & Sweet Potato Dry Dog Food is an excellent choice for dogs with sensitivities to common proteins like poultry. Studies indicate that beef and chicken are among the most frequent causes of dog food allergies. Recognizing signs of allergies, such as excessive itching or digestive issues, is crucial in determining the appropriate diet for your dog. This Merrick formula uses salmon as a primary protein source and is free from poultry. While poultry allergies are possible, experts like Dr. Joe Wakshlag, professor of clinical nutrition and sports medicine and rehabilitation at Cornell College of Veterinary Medicine, note that most dogs do not require poultry avoidance unless a true allergy or intolerance is suspected.
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 product bag.
What we like:
- Supports sustained energy levels for active dogs.
- Helps maintain a healthy weight in high-energy breeds.
- Appealing flavor for picky eaters.
Considerations:
- Formulated for active adult dogs, potentially not ideal for senior or less active dogs.
Purina Pro Plan Sport Performance Salmon & Cod Dry Dog Food is formulated to meet the elevated nutritional demands of active dogs. This high-performance formula contains glucosamine and omega-3 fatty acids to support joint health and mobility, crucial for dogs engaging in regular exercise. The 30% protein and 20% fat ratio provides sustained energy to fuel activity. This formula has proven palatable even for picky eaters. Purina Pro Plan Sport is available in various flavor combinations, including turkey, duck and quail, salmon and cod, and beef and bison options.
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 packaging.
What we like:
- Convenient home delivery of fresh dog food.
- Customized meal plans tailored to individual dog needs.
- Easy storage in refrigerator or freezer.
Considerations:
- May require a transition period for dogs accustomed to kibble.
- Generally more expensive than traditional dog food options.
The Farmer’s Dog offers a convenient subscription service delivering fresh, human-grade dog food directly to your doorstep. Each meal plan is personalized based on your dog’s specific profile, including age, weight, breed, activity level, and body condition. Upon signing up, you complete a detailed questionnaire, and The Farmer’s Dog calculates the precise portions and nutritional composition ideal for your dog. Meals are pre-portioned and easy to store in the refrigerator or freezer. Fresh food options can be particularly appealing to picky eaters and can offer benefits like increased palatability and potentially improved digestion for some dogs.
A dog enjoys a meal from The Farmer’s Dog.
Food Type: Fresh | Texture: Soft, Easy to Chew | Calorie Content: N/A (Personalized) | Main Ingredients: Human-Grade (Personalized)
A dog uses a snuffle mat to eat Purina Pro Plan dry dog food, promoting slower eating.
Best Dog Food for Large Breeds: Purina Pro Plan Large Breed Adult Dry Dog Food
Purina Pro Plan Adult Large Breed Dry Dog Food product packaging.
What we like:
- Helps maintain a healthy weight, important for large breeds prone to joint issues.
- Larger kibble size designed for bigger dogs.
- Good value considering bag size and quality.
Considerations:
- Large bag sizes may not be suitable for all storage situations.
Purina Pro Plan Large Breed Adult Dry Dog Food is specifically formulated to address the unique needs of large breed dogs. Purina employs veterinary nutritionists to develop their formulas, ensuring high quality and nutritional balance. This large breed formula contains natural prebiotic fiber for digestive health and omega-6 fatty acids and vitamin A for skin and coat health. It is also formulated to help large breed dogs maintain a healthy weight, which is crucial in preventing joint problems that are common in larger breeds. Purina Pro Plan also offers a weight-management formula within their large breed line, suitable for less active or senior large dogs.
Food Type: Dry | Texture: Crunchy Kibble | Calorie Content: 407 kcal per cup | Main Ingredients: Chicken, Rice, Corn Gluten Meal, Whole Grain Corn
A large yellow lab eats Purina Pro Plan weight management dog food inside his crate.
Best Canned Wet Dog Food: Royal Canin Adult Gastrointestinal Canned Dog Food
Royal Canin Adult Gastrointestinal Canned Dog Food cans.
What we like:
- Excellent for dogs with sensitive stomachs and digestive issues.
- Low-fat formula, gentle on the gastrointestinal tract.
- Supports gut health with prebiotics.
Considerations:
- Requires veterinary approval for purchase.
- Generally more expensive than standard wet food.
- Cans are not resealable.
Royal Canin Adult Gastrointestinal Canned Dog Food is a premium wet food option specifically formulated for dogs with digestive sensitivities. While it is a pricier option and requires veterinary authorization, it is highly recommended for dogs with gastrointestinal issues. This low-fat formula is designed to be easily digestible and contains prebiotics to support beneficial gut bacteria. It also includes a blend of dietary fibers to promote healthy digestion and omega-3 fatty acids from fish oil to soothe the GI tract. Royal Canin offers a wide range of veterinary-exclusive wet food options to address various health concerns, including weight loss, digestive care, and joint care, all requiring veterinary approval. For a readily available option without veterinary prescription, their regular adult canned dog food is also a good choice.
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 frozen dog food packaging.
What we like:
- Made with locally sourced, high-quality produce.
- Long freezer shelf life for convenient storage.
- Easy to portion and serve.
Considerations:
- Individually packaged pouches can generate more waste.
- Transition to frozen food may require gradual introduction.
Just Food For Dogs Fish & Sweet Potato offers a fresh, frozen dog food option with a focus on high-quality, human-grade ingredients. Their recipes feature locally sourced produce and single-source proteins, making them suitable for dogs with sensitivities or those on limited ingredient diets. The Fish & Sweet Potato recipe is particularly beneficial for dogs with sensitive stomachs or allergies, providing a novel protein source. Just Food For Dogs offers a variety of recipes, including venison, lamb and turkey options. They also offer a variety pack to sample different recipes.
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 product bag.
What we like:
- Good source of protein for muscle maintenance.
- Contains glucosamine and chondroitin to support joint health.
- Budget-friendly option without compromising quality.
Considerations:
- Limited bag size variety, typically only available in large bags.
Kirkland Signature Adult Formula Chicken, Rice and Vegetable Dog Food provides a balance of quality and affordability. This formula includes probiotics to promote digestive health, and glucosamine and chondroitin to support joint function, making it a good choice for dogs prone to joint issues or with sensitive stomachs. It is a reliable option for everyday feeding and is well-tolerated by many dogs, even those with sensitivities. Kirkland Signature also offers a small breed formula to cater to smaller dogs’ 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 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 cans.
What we like:
- Formulated for dogs with both stomach and skin sensitivities.
- High moisture content, beneficial for hydration.
- Versatile – can be fed alone or mixed with dry food.
Considerations:
- Cans are not resealable, requiring alternative storage if not fully used.
Hill’s Science Diet Adult Sensitive Stomach & Skin Canned Dog Food is a veterinarian-recommended wet food specifically designed for dogs with sensitive digestive systems. It’s a gentle formula that is easily digestible and helps soothe sensitive stomachs. The high moisture content in wet food can be particularly beneficial for dogs who need extra hydration. It can be fed as a complete meal or used as a topper to enhance the palatability and moisture content of dry kibble. Hill’s Science Diet offers various recipes within this sensitive stomach line, including salmon and chicken recipes, in addition to the turkey and rice stew.
Food Type: Wet | Texture: Soft, Easy to Chew | Calorie Content: 253 kcal/can | Main Ingredients: Chicken Broth, Turkey, Carrots, Pork Liver, Rice, Chicken
A small white dog enjoys a meal of Royal Canin kibble mixed with Hill’s Science Diet canned food.
Best Prepared Wet Dog Food: Purina Beneful Prepared Meals Beef & Chicken Medley
Purina Beneful Prepared Meals Beef & Chicken Medley in a convenient tub.
What we like:
- Flavorful and appealing to many dogs.
- Resealable container for easy storage of leftovers.
- Can be served as a complete meal or a food topper.
Considerations:
- None noted at this time.
Purina Beneful Prepared Meals Beef & Chicken Medley is a convenient and palatable wet food option that many dogs enjoy. This prepared meal features a stew-like consistency with vegetables, real beef, chicken, and rice. It is a complete and balanced meal, suitable for serving on its own or as a tasty and enticing topper for dry kibble. The resealable tubs make storage easy and maintain freshness.
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 Select the Right Food for Your Dog](#how-to-select-the-right-food-for-your-dog)
Choosing the best dog food involves considering several factors, going beyond just brand names and appealing packaging. The most crucial aspects are ensuring the food is nutritionally complete and balanced, and that you are feeding appropriate portions for your dog’s individual needs.
When evaluating dog food, focus on both label information and broader brand considerations.
Deciphering the Label: AAFCO Statement
The nutrition adequacy statement from the Association of American Feed Control Officials (AAFCO) is paramount. This statement indicates:
- Species and Life Stage: Whether the food is formulated for dogs and for which life stage (puppy, adult, senior, all life stages).
- Substantiation: How nutritional adequacy was determined – either through formulation or feeding trials.
“Look for the phrase ‘complete and balanced’ in the nutritional adequacy statement,” advises Dr. Brian Roberts, a board-certified veterinarian with VCA Animal Hospitals. “This confirms the food is intended as a sole diet and should provide all necessary nutrients.”
The AAFCO statement is considered by the FDA to be one of the most critical parts of a dog or cat food label. While AAFCO sets nutritional standards, it’s a voluntary association and does not regulate, approve, or certify pet food brands. Therefore, claims of “AAFCO approved” are inaccurate.
Beyond Ingredients: Brand Reputation and Expertise
While ingredient lists are important, delve deeper into the brand itself. The World Small Animal Veterinary Association (WSAVA) Global Nutrition Guidelines recommend investigating:
- Personnel: Are veterinary professionals, particularly board-certified veterinary nutritionists, involved in product formulation and manufacturing?
- Quality Control: Does the company routinely analyze finished products for nutrient content and potential contaminants?
- Research Investment: Do they invest in nutritional research to improve their formulas?
“Brands committed to optimal nutrition often have veterinary nutritionists on staff and invest in ongoing research,” notes Dr. Roberts.
Understanding Ingredients and Palatability
Focus on the nutrients your dog receives rather than specific ingredients in isolation, according to Dr. Richard Hill, a board-certified veterinary nutritionist at the University of Florida. However, the ingredient list provides valuable insights.
- Ingredient Order: Ingredients are listed by weight, from highest to lowest. The first few ingredients are the most prominent. This helps determine if the food is primarily meat-based or vegetable-based.
- Ingredient Quality: Both whole ingredients (like whole chicken) and processed ingredients (like chicken meal) can be nutritious. Chicken meal, for instance, is simply dehydrated chicken, a concentrated protein source.
Nutritional Value and Portion Control
Assess the food’s energy density (calories per cup, can, or ounce) and feeding guidelines.
- Feeding Guidelines: Commercial dog foods generally provide essential nutrients. Feeding guidelines on the packaging offer a starting point, but individual needs vary.
- Body Condition Score (BCS): Regularly monitor your dog’s weight using the BCS, a visual scale to assess body fat. An ideal score is typically 4 or 5 out of 9. Veterinarians use BCS to monitor a pet’s weight and health over time.
Obesity is a prevalent nutritional disease in dogs, potentially shortening lifespan. Overfeeding is a common issue. “Many owners over-rely on bag recommendations, which are often for active dogs,” says Dr. Wakshlag. “Many dogs are less active and require fewer calories.”
Tailoring Food to Your Dog’s Life Stage and Size
Choose food appropriate for your dog’s life stage (puppy, adult, senior).
- Puppy Food: Feed puppy-specific food until they reach adult weight (around 7-9 months for small breeds, 12-14 months for larger breeds, and up to 1.5 years for giant breeds).
- Senior Dogs: Healthy senior dogs on a balanced diet may not require food changes unless advised by a vet.
- Breed-Specific Formulas: Consider breed-specific formulas, particularly for breeds prone to specific health issues. Royal Canin and other brands offer such options. These formulas may address breed-specific predispositions, such as joint problems in large breeds. However, always check ingredient lists and nutritional content to ensure these formulas truly benefit your breed, rather than being purely marketing-driven.
Frequently Asked Questions About Dog Food
Navigating dog food choices can bring up many questions. Here are answers to some common queries:
Dry vs. Wet Dog Food: What’s the Difference?
The primary difference is water content. Kibble (dry food) is about 10% water, while canned (wet food) can be 70% or more, explains Dr. Roberts. If ingredient profiles are similar, mixing wet and dry food is fine, especially for picky eaters or dogs needing hydration. Adding dog-safe fresh vegetables and fruits (as toppers or treats) can boost nutrition without excessive calories, says Dr. Wakshlag.
Dry food is generally more economical and shelf-stable when properly stored. Wet food is perishable after opening. For food safety, Dr. Hill recommends storing dry food in a cool, dry place, and thoroughly cleaning food containers before refilling.
A wet food-only diet can be beneficial for dogs with dental issues or those needing higher moisture intake for conditions like urinary problems.
Ingredients to Avoid in Dog Food
Garlic powder is a common palatant to avoid due to potential health risks, says Dr. Michael. Onions, raisins, grapes, and sugar-free additives are also toxic to dogs. Avoid foods heavily laden with artificial dyes, which are primarily for visual appeal and not nutritional value.
Is Grain-Free Dog Food Better?
Grain-free formulas exclude wheat, barley, rye, and corn, often marketed for gluten intolerance. However, true gluten intolerance is rare in dogs, notes Dr. Roberts. Grains provide valuable carbohydrates, fiber, vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants. Grain-free foods often substitute other carbohydrate sources like potatoes and legumes.
Some research suggests a possible link between certain grain-free diets and dilated cardiomyopathy (DCM) in dogs, but the FDA investigation is ongoing. The veterinary consensus is that grain-free is generally not superior and may not be necessary or beneficial for most dogs.
Raw Dog Food Diets: Are They Safe?
Experts advise against raw food diets due to health risks. “The AVMA discourages feeding raw animal-source protein due to the risk of illness to pets and humans,” says Dr. Teller. Raw diets can harbor harmful parasites and bacteria, posing risks to both pets and their families. Hard bones in raw diets can also cause obstructions or splinters. Commercially prepared, balanced dog food is generally safer and nutritionally complete.
Dog Food Toppers: Are They Recommended?
Toppers (like pumpkin, blueberries, bone broth) can enhance palatability for picky eaters. However, use them sparingly and not daily, as dogs may become reliant on toppers, advises experts. Toppers should be treated like treats and factored into calorie intake. If your dog eats a balanced commercial diet, toppers are generally unnecessary unless vet-prescribed, says Dr. Teller.
Managing Dog Weight Gain
Address weight gain by first reviewing the type and amount of food your dog eats daily, including treats and table scraps. Consult your veterinarian to rule out underlying medical issues and discuss appropriate weight management food options, advises Dr. Michael.
How Much Food Should I Feed My Dog?
Calorie needs vary based on breed, weight, size, and activity level. The WSAVA provides a calorie chart for adult dogs. However, consult your veterinarian for personalized feeding recommendations based on your dog’s specific needs.
[
Meet Our Veterinary Experts](#meet-our-veterinary-experts)
At foods.edu.vn, we consult with experts possessing specialized knowledge and authority in their fields. Our expert guidance is independent and free from undisclosed financial conflicts of interest.
- Dr. Lori Teller: Board-certified veterinarian and past president of the American Veterinary Medical Association.
- Dr. Joe Wakshlag: Professor of Clinical Nutrition and Sports Medicine and Rehabilitation at Cornell College of Veterinary Medicine.
- Dr. Brian Roberts: Board-certified veterinarian and Regional Medical Director at VCA Animal Hospitals.
- 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 Recommendations?](#why-trust-our-recommendations)
As a content creator for foods.edu.vn specializing in pet nutrition, I have extensive experience researching and writing about dog food and related topics. This article is based on thorough research, consultation with veterinary experts, and analysis of numerous dog food options. Our aim is to provide helpful, accurate, and trustworthy information to guide you in making the best choices for your dog’s health and well-being.
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