2024 Best Dry Dog Food: Top Picks for Your Furry Friend

Dry dog food is a popular choice among pet owners due to its convenience, long shelf life, and affordability. It is also a great option for dogs who need to maintain their dental health, as the crunchiness of the kibble can help scrape away plaque and tartar. With so many brands and types of dry dog food available on the market, it can be overwhelming to choose the right one for your furry friend.

When it comes to selecting the best dry dog food for your pet, there are several factors to consider. One of the most important is the quality of the ingredients. Look for a brand that uses high-quality protein sources, such as chicken, beef, or fish, and avoids fillers like corn, wheat, and soy. It’s also important to consider your dog’s age, breed, and activity level when selecting a dry dog food.

In this article, we spent hours researching and testing various brands of dry dog food to identify the top choices for 2024. We considered factors such as ingredient quality, nutritional value, and taste to create a comprehensive list of the best dry dog foods on the market. Whether you have a small breed or a large breed, a puppy or a senior dog, we’ve got you covered. Keep reading to find the perfect dry dog food for your furry companion.

Best Dry Dog Food

We understand that choosing the right dry dog food for your furry friend can be a daunting task. With so many options available in the market, it can be overwhelming to determine which one is the best for your dog’s specific needs. That’s why we’ve done the research for you and compiled a list of the best dry dog food options for 2024. Our team of experts has carefully evaluated each product based on its nutritional value, ingredients, and customer reviews to bring you the most comprehensive and reliable list possible. Whether your dog is a picky eater or has specific dietary requirements, we’ve got you covered. So without further ado, here are the top dry dog food brands for 2024.

Blue Buffalo Life Protection Formula Natural Adult Dry Dog Food, Chicken and Brown Rice 30-lb Chicken -amp; Brown Rice 30 Pound (Pack of 1)

If you’re looking for a high-quality dry dog food that’s made with natural ingredients and free from artificial flavors and preservatives, then BLUE Life Protection Formula Chicken and Brown Rice dry dog food might be just what you need.

Pros

• Real meat as the first ingredient
• Antioxidant-rich LifeSource Bits
• No chicken (or poultry) by-product meals, corn, wheat, soy, artificial flavors or preservatives

Cons

• May not be suitable for dogs with certain dietary restrictions
• Packaging may vary
• Some dogs may not like the taste

We’ve been using BLUE Life Protection Formula Chicken and Brown Rice dry dog food for our adult dogs for a while now, and we’re happy with the results. The real chicken as the first ingredient provides high-quality protein that helps our dogs build and maintain healthy muscles. We also appreciate that the formula contains wholesome whole grains, garden veggies, and fruit, which provide essential nutrients.

One of the standout features of this dry dog food is the antioxidant-rich LifeSource Bits. This precise blend of antioxidants, vitamins, and minerals has been carefully selected by holistic veterinarians and animal nutritionists to support immune system health, life stage needs, and a healthy oxidative balance. We’ve noticed that our dogs have been healthier since we started feeding them this dry dog food.

We also like that BLUE Life Protection Formula Chicken and Brown Rice dry dog food is made with natural ingredients enhanced with vitamins and minerals. It contains no chicken (or poultry) by-product meals, corn, wheat, soy, artificial flavors, or preservatives. This gives us peace of mind knowing that we’re feeding our dogs a high-quality, balanced recipe that we can both feel great about.

While we haven’t experienced any major issues with this dry dog food, we do acknowledge that it may not be suitable for dogs with certain dietary restrictions. Additionally, the packaging may vary, which could be a concern for some pet owners. Lastly, some dogs may not like the taste, so it’s always a good idea to introduce new food gradually and monitor your dog’s reaction.

Overall, we would recommend BLUE Life Protection Formula Chicken and Brown Rice dry dog food to pet owners looking for a high-quality, natural dry dog food that’s free from artificial flavors and preservatives.

Purina ONE Chicken and Rice Formula Dry Dog Food – 40 lb. Bag Chicken -amp; Rice 40 Pound (Pack of 1)

We highly recommend Purina ONE Chicken and Rice Formula Dry Dog Food for dog owners looking for a high-quality dry dog food that provides complete and balanced nutrition for their adult dogs.

Pros

• The formula contains real chicken as the first ingredient, providing high-quality protein to support strong muscles, including a healthy heart.
• The addition of prebiotic fiber promotes gut health and immune support.
• The kibble contains added vitamins, minerals, and nutrients for overall health, including natural sources of glucosamine for joint health.

Cons

• Some dogs may not enjoy the taste of the food.
• The kibble may be too hard for dogs with dental issues.
• The food may not be suitable for dogs with certain dietary restrictions.

This dry dog food is easily digestible and made with omega-6 fatty acids, vitamins, and minerals, plus four antioxidant sources to help maintain a strong immune system. The kibble is a perfect blend of crunchy bites and tender, meaty morsels that dogs love.

The formula provides 100 percent complete and balanced nutrition for adult dogs and has natural glucosamine sources to promote joint health. The food is crafted in Purina-owned, U.S. facilities, ensuring high-quality standards.

Overall, we are confident that Purina ONE Chicken and Rice Formula Dry Dog Food is a great choice for dog owners looking for a high-quality dry dog food that provides complete and balanced nutrition for their adult dogs.

Blue Buffalo Life Protection Formula Natural Adult Dry Dog Food, Lamb and Brown Rice 30-lb Lamb -amp; Brown Rice 30 Pound (Pack of 1)

If you’re looking for a high-quality, balanced recipe for your dog, then Blue Buffalo Life Protection Formula Natural Adult Dry Dog Food, Lamb and Brown Rice is a great choice. We highly recommend this dog food for adult dogs.

Pros

• Real meat as the first ingredient
• Contains essential proteins and carbohydrates
• Antioxidant-rich LifeSource Bits

Cons

• Formula adjustments may occur
• Chicken meal has replaced fish meal in Life Protection Formula Lamb diets
• Packaging may vary

We love that Blue Buffalo Life Protection Formula Natural Adult Dry Dog Food features real meat as the first ingredient. The high-quality protein from real lamb helps our dog build and maintain healthy muscles. Plus, it contains wholesome whole grains, garden veggies, and fruit.

Additionally, this dog food contains essential proteins and carbohydrates to help meet the energy needs of adult dogs. It also features omega 3 -amp; 6 fatty acids to promote a shiny coat and healthy skin.

We appreciate that Blue Buffalo Life Protection Formula includes exclusive, antioxidant-rich LifeSource Bits to support a healthy immune system in our adult dog. This precise blend of antioxidants, vitamins, and minerals is carefully selected by holistic veterinarians and animal nutritionists to support immune system health, life stage needs, and a healthy oxidative balance.

While formula adjustments may occur from time to time, they do not impact the Guaranteed Analysis nor introduce new allergens. As such, no transition period between formulas is necessary. However, chicken meal has replaced fish meal in Life Protection Formula Lamb diets, and these diets already included chicken ingredients, so there has been no addition of new allergens.

Lastly, we want to note that packaging may vary. However, this does not affect the quality of the product inside.

Overall, we highly recommend Blue Buffalo Life Protection Formula Natural Adult Dry Dog Food, Lamb and Brown Rice for adult dogs. It’s made with the finest natural ingredients enhanced with vitamins, minerals, and other nutrients, and it’s a high-quality, balanced recipe you can both feel great about.

NUTRO ULTRA Adult Weight Management High Protein Natural Dry Dog Food for Weight Control with a Trio of Proteins from Chicken, Lamb and Salmon, 30 lb. Bag

If you’re looking for a high-quality dog food that’s perfect for overweight adult dogs, NUTRO ULTRA Adult Weight Management Dry Dog Food is definitely worth considering.

Pros

• The trio of proteins from chicken, lamb, and salmon make this dry dog food incredibly delicious and satisfying for your furry friend.
• Made with real chicken as the #1 ingredient, this dog food is packed with high-quality protein that helps your dog maintain a healthy weight.
• NUTRO ULTRA Dry Dog Food is made with Non-GMO ingredients, and it has no chicken by-product meal, corn, wheat, or soy protein and no artificial flavors, colors, or preservatives.

Cons

• Some dogs may not like the taste of this dog food, especially if they are used to eating other brands.
• This dog food is a bit more expensive than some other brands on the market, so it may not be the best choice for pet owners on a tight budget.
• The kibble size may be too big for some smaller dogs, so you may need to break it up into smaller pieces for them.

We recently tried NUTRO ULTRA Adult Weight Management Dry Dog Food with a Trio of Proteins From Chicken, Lamb and Salmon for our overweight dog, and we were very pleased with the results. Our dog loved the taste of the food, and we noticed that he started to lose weight after just a few weeks of eating it.

One thing we really like about this dog food is that it’s made with high-quality ingredients that are sourced from trusted farmers and suppliers. We also appreciate that it’s made without any artificial preservatives, flavors, or colors.

Overall, we highly recommend NUTRO ULTRA Adult Weight Management Dry Dog Food with a Trio of Proteins From Chicken, Lamb and Salmon to anyone who is looking for a high-quality dog food that’s perfect for overweight adult dogs. It’s a bit more expensive than some other brands, but we think it’s definitely worth the extra cost.

NUTRO ULTRA Adult High Protein Natural Dry Dog Food with a Trio of Proteins from Chicken, Lamb and Salmon, 15 lb. Bag 15 Pound (Pack of 1)

If you’re looking for a dog food that prioritizes taste and nutrition, NUTRO ULTRA Adult Dry Dog Food is a great option.

Pros

• Made with high-quality ingredients and 15 superfoods for complete and balanced nutrition.
• Trio of protein from chicken, lamb, and salmon provides a variety of flavors and nutrients.
• Free from chicken by-product meal, corn, soy, or wheat, and no artificial flavors, colors, or preservatives.

Cons

• Some dogs may not like the taste.
• More expensive than some other brands.
• Not 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 blend of chicken, lamb, and salmon provides a variety of flavors and nutrients that our dog seemed to enjoy. We also appreciate that the food is free from artificial flavors, colors, and preservatives.

While our dog seemed to enjoy the taste, we have heard from other dog owners that their pets were not as enthusiastic. Additionally, this dog food is more expensive than some other brands, which may be a consideration for some pet owners. Finally, if your dog has certain dietary restrictions, this food may not be suitable.

Overall, we would recommend NUTRO ULTRA Adult Dry Dog Food for pet owners who are looking for a high-quality dog food that prioritizes nutrition and taste.

Nutro Ultra Adult Large Breed Dry Dog Food, Chicken, Lamb and Salmon Protein Trio, 30 lb. Bag

If you’re looking for a high-quality dry dog food that’s tailored to your large breed dog’s unique needs, Nutro Ultra Adult Large Breed High Protein Dry Dog Food is a great choice. With real chicken as the #1 ingredient and a blend of lamb and salmon proteins, this dry dog food recipe delivers delicious flavor that dogs love while supporting strong muscles and a lean body.

Pros

• Nutro Ultra Adult Large Breed High Protein Dry Dog Food provides high-quality ingredients like our trio of animal proteins and exclusive blend of 14 superfoods to deliver abundant flavor and gourmet nutrition your pet will love.
• This dry dog food is specifically tailored and designed for your large breed dog’s unique needs.
• Nutro Ultra Adult Large Breed High Protein Dry Dog Food with a Trio of Proteins from Chicken, Lamb, and Salmon contains Omega 3 -amp; 6 fatty acids for healthy skin and a radiant coat.

Cons

• This adult large breed dry dog food is relatively expensive compared to other brands.
• Some dogs may not like the taste of this dry dog food.
• The large 30 lb. bag may be too heavy for some pet owners to lift.

We’ve been using Nutro Ultra Adult Large Breed High Protein Dry Dog Food for a few months now and our dog absolutely loves it. The high-quality protein from chicken sources helps support strong muscles and a lean body, while the blend of lamb and salmon proteins provides essential antioxidants to support the immune system and essential nutrients to support whole-body health.

One thing we really appreciate about this dry dog food is that it’s specifically tailored and designed for our large breed dog’s unique needs. The Omega 3 -amp; 6 fatty acids help keep his skin and coat healthy and radiant, and we’ve noticed a significant improvement in his overall health since we switched to this brand.

However, this dry dog food is relatively expensive compared to other brands, and some dogs may not like the taste. Additionally, the large 30 lb. bag may be too heavy for some pet owners to lift, so it’s important to keep that in mind when purchasing.

Overall, if you’re looking for a high-quality dry dog food that’s tailored to your large breed dog’s unique needs, Nutro Ultra Adult Large Breed High Protein Dry Dog Food is definitely worth considering.

NUTRO ULTRA Adult Small Breed High Protein Natural Dry Dog Food with a Trio of Proteins from Chicken, Lamb and Salmon, 15 lb. Bag Lamb,Chicken,Salmon 15 Pound (Pack of 1)

We highly recommend NUTRO ULTRA Adult Small Breed High Protein Natural Dry Dog Food with a Trio of Proteins from Chicken, Lamb and Salmon, 15 lb. Bag for small dog owners who want to give their furry friends a nutritious and flavorful meal.

Pros

• The kibble size is perfect for small dogs, making it easier for them to chew and digest.
• The trio of proteins from chicken, lamb, and salmon provides a balanced diet for adult dogs that’s nutrient rich and full of flavor.
• The 15 vibrant superfoods like coconut, chia, kale, and blueberries make this dog food a healthy and tasty option for your furry friend.

Cons

• The price point is higher compared to other dry dog food brands.
• Some dogs may not like the taste of the kibble.
• The bag size may not be suitable for owners with multiple dogs or larger breeds.

We have been using NUTRO ULTRA Adult Small Breed High Protein Natural Dry Dog Food with a Trio of Proteins from Chicken, Lamb and Salmon, 15 lb. Bag for our small dog for the past year, and we have seen a noticeable improvement in her coat and overall health. The kibble size is perfect for her, and she loves the taste of the chicken, lamb, and salmon blend. We appreciate that this dog food is made with high-quality, real ingredients sourced from trusted farmers and suppliers and has no artificial flavors, colors, or preservatives.

The 15 vibrant superfoods like coconut, chia, kale, and blueberries are a great addition to this dog food, providing additional nutrients and flavor. However, the price point is higher compared to other dry dog food brands, and some dogs may not like the taste of the kibble. Additionally, the bag size may not be suitable for owners with multiple dogs or larger breeds.

Overall, we highly recommend NUTRO ULTRA Adult Small Breed High Protein Natural Dry Dog Food with a Trio of Proteins from Chicken, Lamb and Salmon, 15 lb. Bag for small dog owners who want to give their furry friends a nutritious and flavorful meal.

NUTRO ULTRA Adult Small Breed High Protein Natural Dry Dog Food with a Trio of Proteins from Chicken, Lamb and Salmon, 8 lb. Bag

We highly recommend NUTRO ULTRA Adult Small Breed High Protein Natural Dry Dog Food with a Trio of Proteins from Chicken, Lamb and Salmon for small breed adult dogs who need a nutrient-rich diet that is full of flavor.

Pros

• The kibble is easy to chew for small breed dogs.
• Made with high-quality ingredients and provides complete and balanced nutrition.
• The blend of 15 vibrant superfoods, like coconut, chia, kale, blueberries, and other quality ingredients, provides a nutrient-rich diet.

Cons

• Some dogs may not like the taste of the food.
• The price is a bit higher compared to other dry dog food.
• The bag may not last as long as expected.

We recently tried NUTRO ULTRA Adult Small Breed High Protein Natural Dry Dog Food with a Trio of Proteins from Chicken, Lamb and Salmon for our small breed dog, and we are highly satisfied with the results. The kibble is easy to chew for small breed dogs, and it provides complete and balanced nutrition.

One of the best things about this dog food is that it is made with high-quality ingredients. The blend of 15 vibrant superfoods, like coconut, chia, kale, blueberries, and other quality ingredients, provides a nutrient-rich diet that is full of flavor. We noticed a significant improvement in our dog’s coat and overall health after switching to this dog food.

However, some dogs may not like the taste of the food. It’s important to note that this dog food is a bit pricier compared to other dry dog food. Also, the bag may not last as long as expected. But overall, we highly recommend NUTRO ULTRA Adult Small Breed High Protein Natural Dry Dog Food with a Trio of Proteins from Chicken, Lamb and Salmon for small breed adult dogs who need a nutrient-rich diet that is full of flavor.

Merrick Premium Grain Free Dry Adult Dog Food, Wholesome And Natural Kibble, Real Texas Beef And Sweet Potato – 22.0 lb. Bag Grain Free with Sweet Potato Texas Beef 22 Pound (Pack of 1)

If you’re looking for a high-quality, grain-free dry dog food, Merrick’s Real Texas Beef and Sweet Potato recipe is definitely worth considering. Our experience with this product has been overwhelmingly positive, and we believe that it could be a great option for many pet owners.

Pros

• The first ingredient is real deboned beef, which is a great source of high-quality protein that helps build and maintain healthy muscle tissue and energy levels.
• This food is 100% grain-free and contains no corn, wheat, soy, or gluten, making it a great option for dogs with food sensitivities or allergies.
• With 65% protein and healthy fat ingredients and 35% produce, fiber, vitamins, minerals, and other natural ingredients, this complete and balanced natural dog food is rich in protein and fiber.

Cons

• This food is relatively expensive compared to some other dry dog food options on the market.
• Some dogs may not enjoy the taste or texture of this food, although we haven’t personally experienced this issue.
• This food may not be suitable for dogs with certain health conditions or dietary needs, so it’s important to consult with your veterinarian before making any changes to your pet’s diet.

Overall, we highly recommend Merrick’s Real Texas Beef and Sweet Potato recipe to any pet owner looking for a high-quality, grain-free dry dog food. It’s packed with protein and other essential nutrients, and it’s made with real food ingredients that you can feel good about feeding to your furry friend.

In our experience, this food has helped our dog maintain healthy skin and coat, and it’s been great for supporting his overall health and well-being. While it may not be the most affordable option out there, we believe that the quality of the ingredients and the overall nutritional value of this food make it well worth the investment.

Canidae All Life Stages Premium Dry Dog Food

If you’re looking for a nutritious and tasty dry dog food for your furry friend, the Canidae All Life Stages Premium Dry Dog Food is a great option.

Pros

• This food is nutritionally dense, nourishing your dog in every bite. It’s made with premium ingredients like chicken, turkey, lamb, and wholesome grains that are rich in essential amino acids and omega 3 and 6 fatty acids, providing an optimum level of nutrition with no corn, wheat, soy, or other fillers.
• The formula is complete and balanced, making it perfect for all ages, breeds, and sizes. This means you only need one bag to feed all your dogs, making meal times for multiple dog households a breeze.
• The food is formulated with antioxidants and probiotics to support a healthy digestive and immune system, along with a nutritious blend of vitamins and minerals to support healthy joints, skin, and coat.

Cons

• Some dogs may not like the taste of the food, but this is a common issue with any new food you introduce to your dog.
• The kibble size may be too big for smaller dogs, so you may need to break it up or find a smaller kibble size.
• The price may be higher than some other dry dog foods on the market, but the ingredients and quality make it worth the investment.

We’ve been using Canidae All Life Stages Premium Dry Dog Food for a few months now, and we’ve noticed a significant improvement in our dog’s coat and overall health. The kibble is a good size for our medium-sized dog, and she seems to enjoy the taste. We also appreciate that we only need one bag to feed all our dogs, which makes meal times much easier. The only downside is the price, but we believe it’s worth the investment for the quality ingredients and nutrition.

Overall, we highly recommend the Canidae All Life Stages Premium Dry Dog Food for all dog owners looking for a nutritious and tasty dry dog food.

Buying Guide

When it comes to choosing the best dry dog food for your furry friend, there are a few key factors to consider. Here are some things to keep in mind when making your decision:

Ingredients

The ingredients in your dog’s food are important for their overall health and well-being. Look for a product that lists high-quality protein sources, such as chicken, turkey, or beef, as the first ingredient. Avoid products that contain fillers, by-products, or artificial preservatives.

Nutritional Content

Make sure the food you choose meets your dog’s nutritional needs. Look for products that are labeled as “complete and balanced” and that meet the standards set by the Association of American Feed Control Officials (AAFCO).

Size and Age

Consider your dog’s size and age when choosing a dry dog food. Puppies have different nutritional needs than adult dogs, and large breed dogs may require a different formula than small breed dogs.

Price

While cost should not be the only factor in your decision, it is important to choose a product that fits your budget. Keep in mind that a higher price does not always mean better quality, so do your research and read reviews before making a purchase.

By considering these factors, you can choose the best dry dog food for your furry friend and ensure they are getting the nutrition they need to live a happy and healthy life.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the top-rated dry dog food brands for large breeds in 2024?

In 2024, some of the top-rated dry dog food brands for large breeds include Hill’s Science Diet, Royal Canin, and Blue Buffalo. These brands offer a range of formulas that are tailored to meet the specific nutritional needs of large breed dogs.

Which dry dog foods are considered the healthiest for small breed dogs this year?

Some of the healthiest dry dog food brands for small breed dogs in 2024 include Wellness, Orijen, and Taste of the Wild. These brands offer a variety of formulas that are high in protein and other essential nutrients that small breed dogs need to stay healthy.

What dry dog food is most recommended by veterinarians in 2024?

In 2024, many veterinarians recommend Royal Canin, Hill’s Science Diet, and Purina Pro Plan as some of the best dry dog food brands on the market. These brands offer a range of formulas that are tailored to meet the specific nutritional needs of dogs of all ages and sizes.

Are there any dog food brands that experts suggest pet owners should avoid?

Some experts suggest avoiding dog food brands that contain artificial preservatives, fillers, and by-products. It is also important to avoid brands that have a history of recalls or quality issues. Always check the ingredient list and do your research before choosing a brand.

What criteria determine the healthiest dry dog food on the market?

The healthiest dry dog food brands on the market typically contain high-quality protein sources, such as real meat or fish, and are free from artificial additives and fillers. Additionally, the best brands will have a good balance of essential nutrients, including vitamins, minerals, and fatty acids.

How can I identify the best overall dry dog food for my dog’s specific needs?

To identify the best dry dog food for your dog’s specific needs, consider factors such as their age, breed, size, and activity level. Look for brands that offer formulas tailored to these factors, and always check the ingredient list to ensure that the food contains high-quality, nutritious ingredients.