Being a responsible dog owner means ensuring your furry friend gets the nutrition they need. Experts agree that the right dog food can lead to numerous health benefits, from maintaining a healthy weight to boosting their immune system, alongside those beloved dog treats.
According to Dr. Lori Teller, a board-certified veterinarian, commercially processed dog foods, whether canned or kibble, are designed to provide the necessary proteins, fats, carbohydrates, vitamins, and minerals. These options offer convenience, consistency, and undergo quality control to minimize the risk of contaminants.
With years of experience writing about dogs and their diets, I’ve consulted with veterinarians and animal nutrition experts to guide you in selecting the best dog food. Below, you’ll find expert-recommended dog food brands and options favored by NBC Select staff for their own pets.
Top Dog Food Picks
Here’s a selection of top-rated dog foods based on expert recommendations and real-world use:
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 designed for puppies up to one year old. The small kibble size makes it easy for young dogs to digest. The formula includes natural omega-3 fatty acids from fish oil, supporting healthy brain and eye development. It also contains a blend of vitamin E and vitamin C to boost the immune system, according to Hill’s. It is available in 4.5- or 12.5-pound bags and also comes in a canned puppy formula, which experts recommend mixing into dry food.
- 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
Some dogs have sensitivities to certain ingredients, causing itching, loose stools, or vomiting. Purina Pro Plan Adult Sensitive Skin & Stomach Dry Dog Food is formulated to minimize these issues. It excludes corn, wheat, and soy for easier digestion. The formula includes high-protein salmon, probiotics, prebiotic fiber, and omega-6 fatty acids to support healthy skin, coat, digestion, and immune function, according to Purina.
- Food type: dry
- Texture: crunchy kibble
- Calorie content: 407 kcal per cup
- Main ingredients: salmon, barley, rice, oatmeal, canola meal, fish meal
Purina Pro Plan Sensitive Skin and Stomach Dog Food, formulated with salmon and rice, is easy to digest for dogs with food sensitivities.
Best Overall Dog Food: Royal Canin Small Breed Adult Dry Dog Food
Royal Canin offers a wide range of dog food options tailored to specific dog sizes, breeds, and dietary needs. Royal Canin Small Breed Adult Dry Dog Food is designed for small dogs between 10 months and 8 years old, weighing between 9 and 22 pounds.
- 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
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 sensitive stomachs or poultry allergies. Studies show that beef and chicken are common allergy triggers in dogs. This formula uses salmon as a novel protein source and is free of grains.
- Food type: dry
- Texture: crunchy kibble
- Calorie content: 392 kcal per cup
- Main ingredients: deboned salmon, salmon meal, whitefish meal, sweet potatoes, potatoes, peas
Merrick Grain Free Salmon & Sweet Potato Dog Food is a great alternative for dogs allergic to poultry.
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 designed for active adult dogs. The formula contains glucosamine and omega-3 fatty acids to support joint health and mobility. It also has a 30% protein and 20% fat ratio to maintain high energy levels, according to Purina.
- 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
Best Subscription Dog Food: The Farmer’s Dog Subscription Dog Food
The Farmer’s Dog delivers fresh, ready-to-eat dog food tailored to your dog’s needs. The meals are pre-portioned based on age, weight, breed, activity level, and build. Recipes are human-grade.
- Food type: fresh
- Texture: soft, easy to chew
- Calorie content: n/a (based on questionnaire)
- Main ingredients: human-grade (based on questionnaire)
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 for large-breed adults. The formula contains natural prebiotic fiber, omega-6 fatty acids, and vitamin A to support digestive, skin, and coat health, according to Purina.
- Food type: dry
- Texture: crunchy kibble
- Calorie content: 407 kcal per cup
- Main ingredients: chicken, rice, corn gluten meal, whole grain corn
Best Canned Wet Dog Food: Royal Canin Adult Gastrointestinal Canned Dog Food
Royal Canin Adult Gastrointestinal Canned Dog Food is a low-fat option ideal for dogs with gastrointestinal issues or sensitive stomachs, according to Royal Canin. It needs vet approval to order. The formula has prebiotics to maintain good gut bacteria, dietary fibers for healthy digestion, and omega-3 fatty acids from fish oil to soothe the GI tract, according to Royal Canin.
- 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
Royal Canin Gastrointestinal Canned Dog Food is formulated for dogs with sensitive stomachs.
Best Frozen Dog Food: Just Food For Dogs Fish & Sweet Potato
Just Food For Dogs Fish & Sweet Potato is a high-protein, low-calorie option suitable for overweight or less active dogs, according to Just Food For Dogs. The meals are made with locally sourced produce and have a single protein source.
- 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 a budget-friendly option with probiotics for digestive health and glucosamine and chondroitin for joint support, according to the brand.
- 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 suitable for dogs with sensitive stomachs. The turkey and rice stew is a popular flavor, and it also comes in salmon and chicken recipes.
- Food type: wet
- Texture: soft, easy to chew
- Calorie content: 253 kcal/can
- Main ingredients: chicken broth, turkey, carrots, pork liver, rice, chicken
Best Prepared Wet Dog Food: Purina Beneful Prepared Meals Beef & Chicken Medley
Purina Beneful Prepared Meals Beef & Chicken Medley contains veggies, beef, chicken, and rice, offering a balanced meal that can be served alone or mixed with kibble.
- 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
Choosing the Right Food for Your Dog
When selecting the healthiest dog food, focus on these key factors:
- Nutritional Completeness and Balance: Ensure the food is nutritionally complete and balanced, and that you’re feeding appropriate portions based on your dog’s size and weight.
- AAFCO Standards: Look for the AAFCO (Association of American Feed Control Officials) statement on the label. If the statement includes the phrase “complete and balanced,” the product is intended to be a sole diet and should be nutritionally balanced, according to experts.
- Ingredients and Palatability: While specific ingredients are less critical than overall nutrition, the ingredient list indicates the source of nutrients. AAFCO has safety standards for ingredients.
- Nutritional Value and Proportions: Check the food’s energy density (kcal per cup, can, or ounce) and feeding guidelines.
- Dog’s Size, Weight, and Life Stage: Choose food that matches your dog’s life stage (puppy, adult, senior) and breed size (small, medium, large).
Key Considerations for Dog Food
When shopping for dog food, keep these points in mind:
- Dry vs. Wet Food: Dry food is more economical and stable, while wet food can benefit dogs with dental issues or those needing more hydration. Mixing both is acceptable if the ingredients are the same.
- Ingredients to Avoid: Garlic powder, onions, raisins, grapes, and sugar-free additives are toxic to dogs. Also, avoid foods heavily laden with dyes.
- Grain-Free Diets: Grain-free formulas are made without wheat, barley, rye, and corn, and are typically fed to dogs with gluten intolerance. Actual cases of gluten intolerance in dogs and cats are rare, however. Carbs (and corn especially) provide calories, extra fiber for better digestion, important vitamins and minerals and antioxidants.
- Raw Food Diets: Experts advise against raw diets due to the risk of microbial pathogens and antibiotic resistance genes.
- Dog Food Toppers: Use toppers sparingly as a last resort if your dog isn’t eating their regular food. Treats should be factored into daily caloric intake.
- Weight Management: Monitor your dog’s weight using the Body Condition Score. Consult with a vet for weight management plans.
Prioritize Your Dog’s Health
Choosing the healthiest dog food requires careful consideration of your dog’s individual needs and consulting with veterinary experts. By following these guidelines, you can ensure your canine companion receives the nutrition necessary for a happy and healthy life.
