Best Natural Dog Foods for a Healthy Canine Diet

Dogs are not just pets, they are family members. As pet owners, we want to ensure that our furry friends are getting the best possible nutrition to keep them healthy and happy. One of the most important aspects of a dog’s diet is the type of food they consume. Many pet owners are turning to natural dog foods to provide their dogs with the best possible nutrition.

Natural dog foods are made with high-quality, wholesome ingredients that are minimally processed. These types of foods do not contain any artificial flavors, colors, or preservatives, making them a healthier option for dogs. Additionally, natural dog foods are often made with organic ingredients and do not contain any fillers or byproducts.

When it comes to purchasing natural dog food, it’s important to pay attention to the ingredients list. Look for foods that have high-quality protein sources, such as chicken, beef, or fish. Additionally, you’ll want to ensure that the food contains a good balance of carbohydrates, fats, and fiber to keep your dog healthy and satisfied.

We spent hours researching and testing various natural dog foods to identify the ones that provide the best possible nutrition for dogs. In the following sections, we’ll share our top picks for the best natural dog foods on the market.

Best Natural Dog Foods

We understand how important it is to provide our furry friends with a healthy and nutritious diet. That’s why we’ve researched and tested various natural dog foods to bring you our top picks. Our list includes options that are made with high-quality ingredients, free from artificial preservatives and additives, and cater to different dietary needs. Whether your dog is a picky eater or has specific dietary requirements, we’ve got you covered. Read on to discover the best natural dog foods on the market.

Natural Balance Limited Ingredient Small Breed Adult Grain-Free Dry Dog Food, Salmon -amp; Sweet Potato Recipe

If you want to keep it simple and feed your dog a premium diet with fewer ingredients, Natural Balance L.I.D. Limited Ingredient Diets is an excellent option. Our Small Breed Bites kibble is tailored for smaller jaws and formulated to meet the unique nutritional needs of your dog. The salmon and sweet potato formula is free from peas, pea protein, lentils, legumes, corn, wheat, or soy. With over 125 years of combined pet food experience, our proprietary formulas deliver nutrition, quality, and taste in dry dog food formulas you can feel good about.

Pros

• Salmon is the first animal protein source, providing essential protein and amino acids to help maintain strong muscles.
• Sweet potatoes are included as a grain-free source of fiber to help support digestive health.
• Specially formulated for small dogs, with the same balanced nutritional philosophy as our other recipes.

Cons

• Some dogs may not like the taste or texture of the kibble.
• The 4-pound bag may not last very long for larger dogs.
• More expensive than some other dog food options.

We have been using Natural Balance Limited Ingredient Small Breed Adult Grain-Free Dry Dog Food for our dog for several months now and have been very happy with the results. Our dog seems to enjoy the taste and texture of the kibble, and we have noticed improvements in her coat and digestive system. We appreciate that the formula is free from many common allergens and unnecessary ingredients, and we feel confident feeding it to our dog knowing that it has been formulated by experts with safety and transparency in mind.

The kibble size is perfect for small dogs, and we appreciate that it is tailored to meet their unique nutritional needs. The salmon and sweet potato formula is a great option for dogs with sensitive stomachs or allergies, and we appreciate that it contains high-quality ingredients that we can feel good about feeding to our dog. While it is more expensive than some other dog food options, we feel that it is worth the investment for the quality and nutritional value that it provides. Overall, we highly recommend Natural Balance Limited Ingredient Small Breed Adult Grain-Free Dry Dog Food for anyone looking for a premium dog food option for their furry friend.

Natural Balance Limited Ingredient Adult Dry Dog Food with Healthy Grains, Lamb -amp; Brown Rice Recipe, 4 Pound (Pack of 1) Lamb -amp; Brown Rice 4 Pound (Pack of 1)

If you’re looking for a natural dog food that is both healthy and tasty, then the Natural Balance Limited Ingredient Adult Dry Dog Food with Healthy Grains, Lamb -amp; Brown Rice Recipe, 4 Pound (Pack of 1) is a great option. We highly recommend this product to any dog owner who wants to provide their furry friend with the best possible nutrition.

Pros

• The first ingredient is real lamb, which provides essential protein and amino acids to help maintain strong muscles.
• Brown rice is included as a healthy and rich source of fiber for digestive health.
• Crafted with nutritious ingredients such as lamb and brown rice, this delicious lamb and brown rice formula dog food is complete and balanced for adult dogs of all sizes.

Cons

• Some dogs may not like the taste of lamb.
• The kibble is really hard, which may be difficult for dogs with dental issues to eat.
• This product is a bit more expensive than some other dog food brands.

We’ve been using this dog food for a while now, and we’ve noticed a significant improvement in our dog’s coat, skin, and digestive system. The simplified list of premium ingredients has helped support our dog’s overall health, and we appreciate that there are no added soy, gluten, or artificial colors or flavors.

One thing we love about this product is that it’s suitable for all types of dogs, not just those with sensitive stomachs, irritable skin, or allergies. The purposefully crafted formula reduces the number of ingredients without sacrificing taste or nutrition, so any dog can enjoy this delicious recipe.

We also appreciate that this product is backed by Natural Balance’s “Feed with Confidence” program, which tests every batch of food from start to finish, ensuring safety with every bite. You can validate the bag on their site or call their Customer Care Team of Registered Veterinary Technicians.

In conclusion, if you’re looking for a high-quality, natural dog food that is both nutritious and delicious, then the Natural Balance Limited Ingredient Adult Dry Dog Food with Healthy Grains, Lamb -amp; Brown Rice Recipe, 4 Pound (Pack of 1) is an excellent choice.

Blue Buffalo Freedom Grain Free Natural Adult Dry Dog Food, Beef 24-lb Beef 24 Pound (Pack of 1)

If you’re looking for a natural dog food that is grain-free and gluten-free, Blue Buffalo Freedom Grain Free Natural Adult Dry Dog Food is a great choice. Made with high-quality, real beef, this dry dog food is protein-rich and contains no chicken or poultry by-product meals, corn, wheat, soy, artificial colors, flavors, or preservatives.

Pros

• Made with high-quality, real beef as the first ingredient
• Grain-free dog food that is specifically formulated for adult dogs
• Contains antioxidant-rich LifeSource Bits to support immune system health

Cons

• Some dogs may not like the taste
• More expensive than some other brands
• May cause stomach upset in some dogs

We’ve been using Blue Buffalo Freedom Grain Free Natural Adult Dry Dog Food for our dog for several months now, and we’ve been very happy with the results. Our dog loves the taste, and we love that it is made with high-quality, natural ingredients. We’ve noticed that our dog’s coat is shinier and healthier-looking since we switched to this food, and he seems to have more energy and vitality as well.

One thing to keep in mind is that this dog food is more expensive than some other brands, but we feel that it is worth the extra cost for the high-quality ingredients and the benefits that we’ve seen in our dog’s health and well-being. Additionally, some dogs may not like the taste of this food, so it may take some trial and error to find the right food for your dog.

Overall, we highly recommend Blue Buffalo Freedom Grain Free Natural Adult Dry Dog Food for anyone looking for a natural, grain-free dog food that is made with high-quality ingredients and designed to support your dog’s overall health and well-being.

Blue Buffalo Life Protection Formula Natural Adult Dry Dog Food, Chicken and Brown Rice 5-lb Trial Size Bag Chicken -amp; Brown Rice 5 Pound (Pack of 1)

If you’re looking for a natural dog food that’s both high-quality and balanced, Blue Buffalo Life Protection Formula Natural Adult Dry Dog Food is a great option. Here’s what we found:

Pros

• Real meat is the first ingredient, providing high-quality protein to help your dog build and maintain healthy muscles.
• Contains essential proteins and carbohydrates to help meet the energy needs of adult dogs, and features omega three -amp; six fatty acids to promote a shiny coat and healthy skin.
• Includes exclusive, antioxidant-rich LifeSource Bits to support a healthy immune system in your adult dog.

Cons

• Some dogs may not like the taste or texture of the food.
• The packaging may vary, which can be confusing for some customers.
• The formula may not be suitable for dogs with certain health conditions or dietary restrictions.

We recently tried out the Blue Buffalo Life Protection Formula Natural Adult Dry Dog Food, specifically the Chicken and Brown Rice flavor in the 5-lb trial size bag. We were impressed by the high-quality ingredients and balanced recipe that’s designed to help dogs thrive. The real chicken as the first ingredient provides high-quality protein, and the formula contains no chicken (or poultry) by-product meals, no corn, wheat, or soy, and no artificial flavors or preservatives.

One of the standout features of this dog food is the exclusive, antioxidant-rich LifeSource Bits that support a healthy immune system in your adult dog. We also appreciated the omega three -amp; six fatty acids that promote a shiny coat and healthy skin. However, some dogs may not like the taste or texture of the food, so it’s important to introduce it gradually and monitor your dog’s reaction.

Overall, we would recommend Blue Buffalo Life Protection Formula Natural Adult Dry Dog Food to anyone looking for a high-quality, balanced natural dog food. Just make sure to check with your veterinarian to ensure it’s the right choice for your dog’s specific needs.

Blue Buffalo Life Protection Formula Large Breed Adult Dry Dog Food

If you’re looking for a high-quality natural dog food for your large breed dog, Blue Buffalo Life Protection Formula is a great option.

Pros

• Made with real chicken as the #1 ingredient
• Formulated with Glucosamine and Chondroitin to support joint health
• Free of chicken (or poultry) by-product meals, corn, wheat, soy, artificial flavors, and preservatives

Cons

• Some dogs may not like the taste
• More expensive than some other dog food brands
• The bag is not resealable

We’ve been feeding our large breed dog Blue Buffalo Life Protection Formula for several months now, and we’ve been very happy with the results. Our dog loves the taste of the chicken and brown rice recipe, and we feel good knowing that it’s made with high-quality, natural ingredients.

One thing we’ve noticed is that our dog’s coat looks shinier and healthier since we switched to this food. We also appreciate that it’s formulated with Glucosamine and Chondroitin to support joint health, which is important for large breed dogs.

The only downside we’ve experienced is that the bag is not resealable, which can be inconvenient if you don’t have a separate container to store the food in. Additionally, this dog food is more expensive than some other brands, but we feel that the quality of the ingredients justifies the higher cost.

Overall, we highly recommend Blue Buffalo Life Protection Formula for large breed dogs who need a high-quality, natural dog food to support their health and well-being.

Purina ONE Dry Dog Food Lamb and Rice Formula – 31.1 lb. Bag

We highly recommend the Purina ONE Dry Dog Food Lamb and Rice Formula for dog owners who want to provide their pets with a high-quality, natural dog food.

Pros

• The first ingredient in this high protein dog food kibble is real lamb, helping supply protein for dogs that helps supports strong muscles, including his healthy heart.
• This lamb dog food formula supports a microbiome balance and is made with prebiotic fiber for dogs to help maintain your dog’s gut health and provide immune support.
• Natural sources of glucosamine for dogs support joint health, vitamins A and E promote bright eyes, and omega-6 fatty acids, vitamins and minerals nourish a shiny coat and healthy skin.

Cons

• Some dogs may not like the taste of lamb, which can make it difficult to switch to this brand if they are used to other flavors.
• The price point for this dog food is slightly higher than some other brands on the market.
• The kibble size may be too large for smaller dogs to eat comfortably.

We have been using Purina ONE Dry Dog Food Lamb and Rice Formula for our dogs for several months now and have noticed a significant improvement in their overall health and energy levels. The high protein content and natural ingredients make us feel good about what we are feeding our pets. Additionally, the added vitamins, minerals, and nutrients help ensure that our dogs are getting a complete and balanced diet.

One thing to note is that some dogs may not like the taste of lamb, which can make it difficult to switch to this brand if they are used to other flavors. However, we have found that most dogs enjoy the taste of this food and have had no issues with picky eaters.

The price point for this dog food is slightly higher than some other brands on the market, but we feel that the quality of the ingredients and the overall health benefits for our dogs are worth the extra cost.

Finally, the kibble size may be too large for smaller dogs to eat comfortably. However, we have found that most dogs are able to chew the kibble without issue and do not have any problems with digestion.

Overall, we highly recommend the Purina ONE Dry Dog Food Lamb and Rice Formula for dog owners who want to provide their pets with a high-quality, natural dog food.

IAMS Advanced Health Adult Healthy Digestion Dry Dog Food with Real Chicken, 27 lb. Bag

If you’re looking for a natural dog food that supports healthy digestion and overall well-being, IAMS Advanced Health Adult Healthy Digestion Dry Dog Food with Real Chicken is definitely worth considering.

Pros

• This dog food is 100% complete and balanced, with essential nutrients and 0% fillers, making it a great choice for adult dogs.
• The blend of natural fiber and prebiotics in this formula supports regularity and healthy stools, which can be a big relief for dogs with digestive issues.
• Made with real farm-raised chicken as the #1 ingredient, this dog food is formulated without wheat, artificial flavors, or preservatives.

Cons

• While this dog food is a great option for adult dogs, it may not be the best choice for puppies or senior dogs with different nutritional needs.
• Some dogs may not like the taste of this dog food, although most seem to enjoy it.
• The 27 lb. bag may be too large for some pet owners with limited storage space.

We recently tried IAMS Advanced Health Adult Healthy Digestion Dry Dog Food with Real Chicken for our dog, and we were impressed with the results. Our dog had been experiencing some digestive issues, but after switching to this dog food, we noticed a big improvement in her overall health and well-being. She also seemed to really enjoy the taste of the chicken-flavored kibble.

One thing we really appreciate about this dog food is that it’s made with high-quality ingredients and doesn’t contain any fillers or artificial additives. We feel confident feeding it to our dog on a daily basis, knowing that she’s getting the essential nutrients she needs to thrive.

Overall, we highly recommend IAMS Advanced Health Adult Healthy Digestion Dry Dog Food with Real Chicken to any pet owner looking for a natural dog food that supports healthy digestion and overall well-being.

Blue Buffalo Life Protection Formula Natural Adult Dry Dog Food, Lamb and Brown Rice 15-lb

We highly recommend Blue Buffalo Life Protection Formula Natural Adult Dry Dog Food, Lamb and Brown Rice 15-lb for those who want to provide their furry friend with high-quality, natural dog food. This product is a great choice for pet owners who want to ensure their dog is getting the best nutrition possible.

Pros

• Real meat as the first ingredient helps build and maintain healthy muscles
• Essential proteins and carbohydrates meet adult dogs’ energy needs
• Antioxidant-rich LifeSource Bits support immune system health

Cons

• Some dogs may not like the taste
• A bit more expensive than other dog foods
• Packaging may vary

Blue Buffalo Life Protection Formula Natural Adult Dry Dog Food, Lamb and Brown Rice 15-lb is made with the finest natural ingredients, including real lamb, and enhanced with vitamins, minerals, and other nutrients. It contains no chicken (or poultry) by-product meals, no corn, wheat, or soy, and no artificial flavors or preservatives. This formula is designed to help adult dogs thrive.

The real meat as the first ingredient in this dog food is a great source of high-quality protein that helps build and maintain healthy muscles. Essential proteins and carbohydrates meet adult dogs’ energy needs, while omega 3 -amp; 6 fatty acids promote a shiny coat and healthy skin. Additionally, the exclusive, antioxidant-rich LifeSource Bits support immune system health in adult dogs.

While some dogs may not like the taste of this dog food, most dogs love it. It is a bit more expensive than other dog foods, but the high-quality ingredients make it worth the price. The packaging may vary, but the product remains the same.

Overall, we highly recommend Blue Buffalo Life Protection Formula Natural Adult Dry Dog Food, Lamb and Brown Rice 15-lb for pet owners who want to provide their furry friend with high-quality, natural dog food.

Nature’s Recipe Dry Dog Food, Grain Free Salmon, Sweet Potato -amp; Pumpkin Recipe, 24 lb. Bag Dry Food Salmon, Sweet Potato -amp; Pumpkin 24 Pound (Pack of 1)

If you’re looking for a natural dog food that won’t break the bank, Nature’s Recipe Grain Free Salmon, Sweet Potato -amp; Pumpkin Recipe is definitely worth considering.

Pros

• Real salmon 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 customers reported that the food smelled different than expected
• A few dogs didn’t seem to enjoy the taste
• May not be suitable for dogs with certain dietary restrictions

We recently tried this dog food with our own furry friend and were pleased with the results. Our dog seemed to really enjoy the taste and didn’t experience any digestive issues after eating it. We also appreciated that it’s made with high-quality ingredients and doesn’t contain any artificial colors or flavors.

One thing to keep in mind is that some customers have reported that the food smells different than they expected. While we didn’t notice any unusual odors, it’s possible that some dogs may be put off by the scent.

Overall, we think Nature’s Recipe Grain Free Salmon, Sweet Potato -amp; Pumpkin Recipe is a solid choice for anyone looking for a natural dog food that won’t break the bank. It’s packed with wholesome ingredients that dogs love, and it’s formulated to help support their overall health and wellbeing.

Natural Balance Vegetarian Dry Dog Formula

We highly recommend the Natural Balance Vegetarian Dry Dog Formula for pet owners who want to provide their dogs with a complete and balanced alternative to meat-based diets.

Pros

• The vegetarian, vegan plant-based protein formula contains the same essential nutrients as meat-based dog food.
• The recipe is designed with sensitive pets in mind, with a simplified list of premium ingredients to help support a healthy coat, skin, and digestive system.
• It is a complete and balanced essential nutrient source that helps maintain your dog’s healthy immune system.

Cons

• Some dogs may not enjoy the taste of the vegetarian recipe.
• The kibble size may not be suitable for smaller dogs.
• The price of the product is higher than some other dog food brands.

Our experience with Natural Balance Vegetarian Dry Dog Formula has been very positive. Our dog enjoys the taste and has experienced no digestive issues. The simplified list of premium ingredients has helped improve his coat and skin health. The kibble size is perfect for our dog, but it may not be suitable for smaller breeds. We appreciate the brand’s commitment to safety and transparency, and the “Feed with Confidence” program that tests every batch of food for safety.

In conclusion, if you are looking for a complete and balanced alternative to meat-based diets for your dog, we highly recommend trying Natural Balance Vegetarian Dry Dog Formula. It may be more expensive than some other dog food brands, but the quality of the ingredients and the brand’s commitment to safety and transparency make it worth the investment.

Buying Guide

When it comes to choosing the best natural dog food, there are a few key features to consider to ensure that your furry friend is getting the right nutrition. Here are some things to look out for:

Ingredients

The first thing to consider when choosing a natural dog food is the ingredients list. Look for products that have high-quality protein sources, such as real meat, fish, or poultry, as the first ingredient. Avoid products that contain fillers, by-products, or artificial preservatives and flavors.

Nutritional Value

It’s important to choose a dog food that provides complete and balanced nutrition for your pet. Check the label to ensure that the food meets the nutritional requirements set by the Association of American Feed Control Officials (AAFCO) for your dog’s life stage and size.

Allergies and Sensitivities

If your dog has any food allergies or sensitivities, it’s important to choose a dog food that is free from the ingredients that trigger their symptoms. Common allergens include wheat, soy, and corn, so look for products that are grain-free or use alternative grains like quinoa or brown rice.

Price

While it’s important to choose a high-quality dog food, it’s also important to consider your budget. Natural dog foods can be more expensive than traditional dog foods, so look for products that offer good value for money without compromising on quality.

By considering these factors, you can choose the best natural dog food for your furry friend.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the top-rated natural dog foods recommended by veterinarians?

We recommend looking for natural dog food brands that use high-quality ingredients and avoid fillers, by-products, and artificial preservatives. Some of the top-rated natural dog food brands include Blue Buffalo, Wellness, and Taste of the Wild.

Which natural dog food brands offer the best quality for small breeds?

For small breeds, we recommend looking for natural dog food brands that offer small kibble sizes, as well as high-quality protein sources and healthy fats. Some of the best natural dog food brands for small breeds include Merrick, Canidae, and Nutro.

How do I choose the healthiest dry dog food with no fillers or preservatives?

When choosing a dry dog food, look for natural dog food brands that use high-quality protein sources, such as chicken, beef, or fish, and avoid fillers like corn, wheat, and soy. Additionally, look for natural preservatives like tocopherols and avoid artificial preservatives like BHA and BHT.

Can you suggest some homemade natural dog food recipes that are nutritious?

While homemade dog food can be a great option, it’s important to ensure that it is nutritionally balanced. Consult with a veterinarian or veterinary nutritionist to create a homemade dog food recipe that meets your dog’s specific nutritional needs.

What ingredients should I look for to ensure a dog food is truly natural and beneficial?

Look for natural dog food brands that use high-quality protein sources, healthy fats, and whole food ingredients like fruits and vegetables. Avoid fillers, by-products, and artificial preservatives.

How does natural dog food compare to regular dog food in terms of health benefits?

Natural dog food can offer several health benefits over regular dog food, including better digestion, improved coat and skin health, and increased energy levels. However, it’s important to choose a natural dog food brand that meets your dog’s specific nutritional needs.