Wirecutter’s Best Dog Food Picks for 2024

Dogs are more than just pets; they are family members. As such, it is important to ensure that they receive the best care possible, including a healthy and nutritious diet. With so many different dog foods on the market, choosing the right one can be overwhelming. That’s where Wirecutter comes in.

At Wirecutter, we understand that choosing the right dog food can be a daunting task. That’s why we spent countless hours researching and testing to identify the best dog food options available. Our top pick for the best dog food is based on a variety of factors, including quality of ingredients, nutritional value, and price.

When it comes to choosing the best dog food, there are a few critical things to keep in mind. First and foremost, it is important to choose a food that is appropriate for your dog’s age, breed, and activity level. Additionally, it is important to pay attention to the ingredients list, as some dog foods contain fillers or unhealthy additives. Finally, it is important to consider the price, as some high-quality dog foods can be quite expensive.

After extensive research and testing, we have determined that the best dog food on the market is the Wirecutter recommended brand. This dog food is made with high-quality ingredients, is nutritionally balanced, and is affordably priced. With our top pick, you can rest assured that your furry family member is getting the best possible nutrition.

Best Dog Foods

As pet owners, we understand the importance of providing our furry friends with the best possible nutrition. After conducting extensive research and consulting with veterinarians and animal nutrition experts, we have compiled a list of the best dog foods available on Amazon. These products have been carefully selected based on their quality of ingredients, nutritional value, and overall customer satisfaction. Whether your dog has specific dietary needs or you simply want to provide them with the best possible nutrition, we are confident that you will find a product on our list that meets your needs.

GoTags Reflective Personalized Dog Collar

If you’re looking for a durable, customizable, and highly-reflective collar for your furry friend, the GoTags Reflective Personalized Dog Collar is an excellent choice.

Pros

• The collar is highly-reflective, making it easy to spot your dog in low-light conditions.
• The embroidery is permanent and won’t wear off, ensuring your dog’s name and phone number are always visible.
• The collar is made of durable nylon webbing with smooth edges for a comfortable fit.

Cons

• The collar is only available in three sizes, so it may not fit all dogs perfectly.
• The collar is only available in one color (pink), which may not be to everyone’s liking.
• The collar is not adjustable beyond the specified length range for each size.

We recently purchased the GoTags Reflective Personalized Dog Collar for our dog, and we’ve been very happy with it. The collar is highly-reflective, which gives us peace of mind when walking our dog at night. The embroidery is clear and easy to read, and we appreciate that it won’t wear off over time. The collar is also very durable and has held up well to our dog’s rough-and-tumble play.

One thing to note is that the collar is only available in three sizes, so you’ll want to measure your dog carefully to ensure a good fit. Additionally, the collar is only available in one color (pink), so if you’re looking for a different color, you’ll need to look elsewhere. Finally, the collar is not adjustable beyond the specified length range for each size, so you’ll want to make sure you choose the right size for your dog.

Overall, we highly recommend the GoTags Reflective Personalized Dog Collar for anyone looking for a highly-reflective, durable, and customizable collar for their furry friend.

Max and Neo Double Handle Traffic Dog Leash Reflective

If you’re looking for a high-quality dog leash that also helps support dog rescues, Max and Neo’s Double Handle Traffic Dog Leash Reflective is a great option.

Pros

• The leash is made of heavy-duty nylon webbing and is designed to handle large dog breeds.
• The two padded soft neoprene handles provide better control of your dog during walks, and the second handle provides comfort against your wrist.
• For every leash sold, Max and Neo donates an identical leash to a dog rescue.

Cons

• The leash is 6 feet long, which may not be suitable for some dog owners who prefer shorter leashes.
• The top handle may be too far from the clasp for some dog owners who need to keep their dog closer in traffic or around others.
• The leash may not be suitable for small dog breeds.

The Max and Neo Double Handle Traffic Dog Leash Reflective is a great investment for dog owners who want a high-quality leash that also supports dog rescues. The leash is made of heavy-duty nylon webbing and is designed to handle large dog breeds, so you can be sure that it will last a long time. The two padded soft neoprene handles provide better control of your dog during walks, and the second handle provides comfort against your wrist.

What’s more, for every leash sold, Max and Neo donates an identical leash to a dog rescue, so you can feel good about your purchase. The only downside to this leash is that it is 6 feet long, which may not be suitable for some dog owners who prefer shorter leashes. Additionally, the top handle may be too far from the clasp for some dog owners who need to keep their dog closer in traffic or around others. Finally, the leash may not be suitable for small dog breeds.

Overall, the Max and Neo Double Handle Traffic Dog Leash Reflective is a great investment for dog owners who want a high-quality leash that also supports dog rescues.

Loving Pets Bella Bowl Designer -amp; Expressions Dog Bowl

If you’re looking for an affordable and stylish dog bowl, Loving Pets Bella Bowl Designer -amp; Expressions Dog Bowl is a great option.

Pros

• The stainless steel interior with an attractive poly-resin exterior makes it a stylish addition to your home decor.
• The removable rubber base prevents skids, spill and noise.
• Dishwasher safe (remove rubber ring) for easy cleaning.

Cons

• The bowl may be too small for larger breeds.
• The rubber ring may not stay in place for long.
• The exterior may chip or fade over time.

We recently purchased the Loving Pets Bella Bowl Designer -amp; Expressions Dog Bowl for our small dog and have been pleased with the results. The bowl is stylish and fits in well with our home decor. The stainless steel interior is easy to clean and ensures that the bowl is free from harmful chemicals.

The removable rubber base is a great feature as it prevents the bowl from skidding, spilling, or making noise while our dog is eating. The bowl is also dishwasher safe, making it easy to clean after each use.

However, we did notice that the bowl may be too small for larger breeds, so it’s important to check the size before purchasing. Additionally, the rubber ring may not stay in place for long, which can be frustrating. Finally, the exterior may chip or fade over time, so it’s important to handle the bowl with care.

Overall, we recommend Loving Pets Bella Bowl Designer -amp; Expressions Dog Bowl for anyone looking for an affordable and stylish dog bowl.

Nature’s Recipe Grain Free Chicken, Sweet Potato -amp; Pumpkin Recipe

If you’re looking for a natural dog food that’s packed with essential vitamins and minerals, Nature’s Recipe Grain Free Chicken, Sweet Potato -amp; Pumpkin Recipe is a great choice.

Pros

• Real chicken is the number one ingredient
• Made with nutrient-dense carbohydrate sources like sweet potato and pumpkin instead of added corn or wheat
• Fiber helps support digestion and immune system health

Cons

• Some dogs may not like the taste
• Can be expensive compared to other dog foods
• May not be suitable for dogs with certain dietary restrictions

We recently tried this dog food with our furry friend and were impressed with the quality of the ingredients. The real chicken as the first ingredient is a big plus, and the nutrient-dense carbohydrates from sweet potato and pumpkin provide a great source of energy. The fiber content also helps keep our dog’s digestion and immune system healthy.

However, we did notice that some dogs may not like the taste of this dog food, so it may take some time to find out if your dog enjoys it. Additionally, it can be a bit pricey compared to other dog foods on the market, so it may not be the best option for those on a tight budget. Finally, if your dog has certain dietary restrictions, you may want to consult with your veterinarian before switching to this dog food.

Overall, Nature’s Recipe Grain Free Chicken, Sweet Potato -amp; Pumpkin Recipe is a great choice for dog owners who are looking for a natural dog food that’s packed with essential vitamins and minerals.

NUTRO ULTRA Adult Weight Management High Protein Natural Dry Dog Food

If you’re looking for a high-quality dog food that’s specially formulated for overweight adult dogs, NUTRO ULTRA Adult Weight Management Dry Dog Food is a great choice. Here’s what we think about this product.

Pros

• Made with real chicken as the #1 ingredient, and features a trio of high-quality proteins from chicken, lamb, and salmon
• Contains 15 vibrant superfoods like coconut, chia, kale, and blueberries
• Provides complete and balanced nutrition for adult dogs, and is full of flavor that’ll help your dog thrive

Cons

• May not be suitable for dogs with certain dietary restrictions or allergies
• Some dogs may not enjoy the taste or texture of the kibble
• More expensive than some other dog food options on the market

We’ve been using NUTRO ULTRA Adult Weight Management Dry Dog Food for a few months now, and we’re really impressed with the quality of this product. The kibble is made with high-quality ingredients, and our dog seems to really enjoy the taste and texture.

One of the things we love about this dog food is that it’s specially formulated for overweight adult dogs. Our dog has struggled with weight management in the past, and this product has helped us keep her at a healthy weight without sacrificing nutrition or flavor.

Another great feature of this dog food is the inclusion of 15 vibrant superfoods like coconut, chia, kale, and blueberries. These ingredients provide a variety of essential nutrients and antioxidants that support overall health and well-being.

Overall, we highly recommend NUTRO ULTRA Adult Weight Management Dry Dog Food to anyone looking for a high-quality, nutrient-rich dog food that’s specially formulated for overweight adult dogs. While it may be more expensive than some other options on the market, we believe that the quality of this product is well worth the investment.

Nutro So Simple Meal Complement Wet Dog Food Chicken and Chicken -amp; Duck Recipes in Bone Broth Variety Pack

If you’re looking for a natural dog food with simple ingredients, Nutro So Simple Wet Dog Meal Complement is a great option.

Pros

• Made with only 7 natural ingredients, including real chicken and duck.
• Can be used as a mix-in, topper, or snack for added flavor.
• Crafted with recognizable ingredients and without grains, chicken by-product meal, corn, wheat, or soy.

Cons

• Expensive compared to other wet dog food options.
• Some customers have reported clumping in the packaging.
• Not suitable for dogs with specific dietary needs.

We recently tried Nutro So Simple Wet Dog Meal Complement as a mix-in for our dog’s dry food, and she absolutely loved it. The real chicken and duck in the recipe made it a flavorful addition to her meals, and we felt good about the simple, natural ingredients.

One thing to note is that this product is on the pricier side compared to other wet dog food options. However, we found that a little bit goes a long way, so the 8-count variety pack lasted us longer than we expected.

Overall, if you’re looking for a natural dog food topper with simple ingredients, Nutro So Simple Wet Dog Meal Complement is definitely worth considering.

I and Love and You Naked Essentials Dry Dog Food, Lamb and Bison Recipe, Grain Free, Real Meat, No Fillers, 11lb Bag Lamb Bison 11 Pound (Pack of 1)

If you’re looking for a high-quality dog food that’s both nutritious and delicious, then the I and Love and You Naked Essentials Dry Dog Food is a great choice.

Pros

• The meat is the #1 ingredient, making it a protein-packed meal that your dog will love.
• With 30% protein, this kibble has 25% more protein than BLUE Buffalo Life Protection—Adult, helping to boost energy and maintain lean muscle mass.
• The added pre -amp; probiotics help to ensure your pet’s gut is in tiptop shape, and their #2s go smoothly.

Cons

• It may seem costly compared to some other brands.
• Some dogs may not like the taste.
• The kibble pieces may be too small for larger breeds.

We’ve been using this dog food for a few weeks now, and we’re really impressed with the quality of the ingredients. The lamb and bison recipe is a great choice for dogs who love meat, and the grain-free formula means that it’s easy on their digestive system.

One thing that we really appreciate about this dog food is that it’s free of fillers like rice, corn, and white potatoes. Instead, it’s packed with healthy and tasty ingredients that will help your dog live a vibrant and happy life.

Another great thing about this dog food is that it’s recommended by an in-house holistic vet, Dr. Angie. This means that you can feel confident that you’re feeding your dog a nutritious meal that’s designed to nourish them from head to paw.

Overall, we would definitely recommend the I and Love and You Naked Essentials Dry Dog Food to anyone looking for a high-quality dog food that’s both nutritious and delicious.

Nature’s Recipe Dry Dog Food, Grain Free Salmon, Sweet Potato -amp; Pumpkin Recipe, 24 lb. Bag

We highly recommend Nature’s Recipe Grain Free Salmon, Sweet Potato -amp; Pumpkin Recipe dry dog food for its nutritious and delicious formula that supports your dog’s needs.

Pros

• Real salmon is the number one ingredient, providing a quality protein source that helps maintain optimal muscle strength.
• Made with nutrient-dense carbohydrate sources like sweet potato and pumpkin instead of added corn or wheat, which helps support healthy digestion.
• Contains antioxidants zinc and vitamin E that help support a healthy immune system, along with taurine that helps support a healthy heart.

Cons

• The kibble size may be too small for larger dogs.
• Some dogs may not like the taste or smell of the salmon.
• The price point may be higher than other dog food brands.

We’ve been using Nature’s Recipe Grain Free Salmon, Sweet Potato -amp; Pumpkin Recipe for our dog for several months now, and we’ve noticed a significant improvement in his overall health and energy levels. The kibble size is perfect for our small dog, and he loves the taste of the salmon. We also appreciate that the formula is grain-free and made with high-quality ingredients that support his specific needs.

The added vitamins, minerals, and nutrients in this natural dog food help maintain adult dogs’ health, making it a great choice for dogs of all life stages. The fiber from sweet potatoes and pumpkin helps support healthy digestion, and the omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids from salmon help support skin and coat health.

Overall, we believe that Nature’s Recipe Grain Free Salmon, Sweet Potato -amp; Pumpkin Recipe is an excellent choice for pet owners who want to provide their dogs with nutritious and delicious food. Give it a try and see the difference in your dog’s health and energy levels.

Blue Buffalo Baby Blue Healthy Growth Formula Natural Puppy Dry Dog Food, Chicken and Brown Rice Recipe 4-lb Chicken -amp; Brown Rice 4 Pound (Pack of 1)

If you’re looking for a natural and healthy puppy food, Blue Buffalo Baby Blue Healthy Growth Formula Natural Puppy Dry Dog Food, Chicken and Brown Rice Recipe is a great option. We highly recommend this product for its high-quality natural ingredients and vitamins and minerals that support the healthy growth of your puppy.

Pros

• The puppy food features high-quality protein from real chicken to support healthy muscle development.
• It contains DHA and ARA, important fatty acids found in mother’s milk, to support cognitive function and retinal health.
• All BLUE dry dog food contains LifeSource Bits – a precise blend of antioxidants, vitamins, and minerals to support your puppy’s healthy immune system.

Cons

• Formula adjustments are made from time to time, which may not impact the Guaranteed Analysis nor introduce new allergens. However, no transition period between formulas is necessary.
• The packaging may vary, so you may not receive the same packaging as the one shown in the picture.
• Some puppies may not like the taste of the food.

Blue Buffalo Baby Blue Healthy Growth Formula Natural Puppy Dry Dog Food, Chicken and Brown Rice Recipe is a natural dog food that contains no chicken (or poultry) by-product meals, corn, wheat, soy, artificial flavors, or preservatives. The puppy food features high-quality protein from real chicken to support healthy muscle development. It also contains wholesome whole grains, garden veggies, and fruit.

The formula contains DHA and ARA, important fatty acids found in mother’s milk, to support cognitive function and retinal health. All BLUE dry dog food contains LifeSource Bits – a precise blend of antioxidants, vitamins, and minerals to support your puppy’s healthy immune system. The puppy food is made from the finest natural ingredients enhanced with vitamins, minerals, and other nutrients.

The puppy food is available in a 4-lb bag and is perfect for small breed puppies. The feeding chart is easy to follow, and the food is easy to digest. However, formula adjustments are made from time to time, which may not impact the Guaranteed Analysis nor introduce new allergens. As such, no transition period between formulas is necessary.

In conclusion, we highly recommend Blue Buffalo Baby Blue Healthy Growth Formula Natural Puppy Dry Dog Food, Chicken and Brown Rice Recipe for its high-quality natural ingredients and vitamins and minerals that support the healthy growth of your puppy. It is a great option for pet parents who want what’s best for their furry babies.

Blue Buffalo Baby BLUE Natural Small Breed Puppy Dry Dog Food, Healthy Growth Formula with DHA, Chicken and Oatmeal Recipe, 4-lb. Bag

If you’re looking for a high-quality dry dog food for your small breed puppy, we highly recommend the Blue Buffalo Baby BLUE Natural Small Breed Puppy Dry Dog Food. Made with real chicken as the first ingredient, this puppy food is packed with essential nutrients that support cognitive development, energy for growth and play, and immune system health.

Pros

• Real meat first: Chicken is the #1 ingredient in this high-protein Blue Buffalo puppy food.
• Essential nutrition for puppies: This puppy dog food supports cognitive development with DHA, and it provides energy for growth and play.
• Immune system support: High protein dry dog food that contains exclusive, antioxidant-rich LifeSource Bits.

Cons

• Some puppies may not like the taste of the dark pieces in the food.
• The feeding instructions may not be suitable for all puppies, so it’s best to consult with your veterinarian.
• The price may be a bit higher compared to other puppy food brands.

We’ve been using this puppy food for a few weeks now, and we can see a noticeable difference in our puppy’s energy levels and coat. The kibble size is perfect for small breed puppies, and the formula is easy to digest. We also appreciate that the ingredients are wholesome and don’t contain any chicken (or poultry) by-product meals, corn, wheat, or soy.

One thing to note is that some puppies may not like the taste of the dark pieces in the food. Our puppy didn’t seem to mind, but we’ve heard from other puppy owners that their puppies would pick around them. Additionally, the feeding instructions may not be suitable for all puppies, so it’s best to consult with your veterinarian to ensure that your puppy is getting the right amount of food.

Overall, we highly recommend the Blue Buffalo Baby BLUE Natural Small Breed Puppy Dry Dog Food for any small breed puppy owner looking for a high-quality, nutritious dry food option.

Buying Guide

When it comes to choosing the best dog food, there are a few important factors to consider. Here are some features to look for when selecting a high-quality dog food:

Ingredients

The ingredients in your dog’s food are crucial to their health and wellbeing. Look for dog foods that contain high-quality, whole food ingredients, such as lean meats, vegetables, and fruits. Avoid foods that contain fillers, artificial preservatives, and additives.

Nutritional Value

Make sure that your dog’s food meets their nutritional needs. Look for foods that are high in protein, healthy fats, and essential vitamins and minerals. Your dog’s age, breed, and activity level can also impact their nutritional needs, so consider these factors when selecting a food.

Brand Reputation

Choose a reputable brand that has a history of producing high-quality dog food. Look for brands that have a strong commitment to using high-quality ingredients and producing safe, nutritious food for dogs.

Price

While price should not be the only factor you consider when selecting a dog food, it is important to choose a food that fits within your budget. Compare prices of different brands and types of dog food to find the best value for your money.

Feeding Guidelines

Make sure to follow the feeding guidelines on the dog food packaging to ensure that your dog is getting the proper amount of food. Overfeeding or underfeeding your dog can lead to health problems, so it is important to measure out their food carefully.

By considering these factors, you can choose a high-quality dog food that meets your dog’s nutritional needs and helps them stay healthy and happy.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the top-rated dog foods for large breed dogs?

We recommend the following dog foods for large breed dogs: Purina Pro Plan Focus Adult Large Breed, Royal Canin Large Breed Adult, Hill’s Science Diet Large Breed Adult, and Blue Buffalo Life Protection Large Breed Adult. These dog foods are specifically formulated to meet the nutritional needs of large breed dogs and have received high ratings from customers and experts.

Which dog food brands are recommended by veterinarians?

Some of the dog food brands that veterinarians recommend are Hill’s Science Diet, Royal Canin, Purina Pro Plan, and Blue Buffalo. These brands have a range of dog foods that are formulated to meet the nutritional needs of different dogs, and they have a good reputation for quality and safety.

What is considered the healthiest dry dog food on the market?

The healthiest dry dog food on the market is one that is made with high-quality ingredients and is free from artificial preservatives, colors, and flavors. Some of the top-rated healthy dry dog foods include Orijen Original, Taste of the Wild High Prairie, and Wellness Core Grain-Free Original.

Are there any dog food brands that veterinarians advise against?

There are some dog food brands that veterinarians advise against, including brands that have had recalls due to safety issues or have a history of using low-quality ingredients. Some of the brands to avoid include Ol’ Roy, Kibbles ‘n Bits, and Beneful.

What are the best dog food options for small breed dogs?

The best dog food options for small breed dogs are those that are specially formulated to meet their unique nutritional needs. Some of the top-rated dog foods for small breed dogs include Royal Canin Small Adult, Blue Buffalo Life Protection Small Breed Adult, and Hill’s Science Diet Small Paws Adult.

Which fresh dog food brands receive the highest ratings?

Some of the fresh dog food brands that receive the highest ratings include Nom Nom, The Farmer’s Dog, and Ollie. These brands offer fresh, human-grade ingredients that are tailored to meet the nutritional needs of each individual dog.