Ratings on Best Dog Food: Top Brands in 2024

Dog food is a crucial part of a dog’s diet and overall health. With so many options available in the market, it can be overwhelming to choose the best one for your furry friend. That’s why we spent countless hours researching and testing different types of dog food to identify the ones that are worth your investment.

When it comes to dog food, there are several types available, including dry kibble, wet canned food, and raw food. Each type has its benefits and drawbacks, and choosing the right one depends on your dog’s needs and preferences. However, regardless of the type, the most critical thing to consider when purchasing dog food is the quality of the ingredients.

Low-quality dog food often contains fillers, artificial preservatives, and by-products that can harm your dog’s health in the long run. On the other hand, high-quality dog food is made with wholesome ingredients that provide your dog with the necessary nutrients to thrive. We tested and reviewed various dog food brands to identify the ones that meet our standards for quality and nutrition.

In this article, we’ll be discussing the ratings on the best dog food available in the market. We’ll be covering different types of dog food, including dry kibble, wet canned food, and raw food, and providing you with our top picks for each category. Our recommendations are based on extensive research and testing, and we’re confident that they’ll help you make an informed decision when it comes to choosing the best dog food for your furry friend.

Best Dog Food Ratings

We understand that finding the best dog food for your furry friend can be a daunting task, especially with so many options available on the market. That’s why we’ve compiled a list of the best dog foods based on their ratings and customer reviews. Our team of experts has thoroughly researched and analyzed each product to ensure that you are getting the best quality for your pet. Below is our comprehensive list of the best dog food products that have received high ratings and positive reviews from satisfied customers.

WAG Chicken and Brown Rice Dog Food

If you’re looking for a high-quality dog food that won’t break the bank, WAG Chicken and Brown Rice Dog Food is a great option.

Pros

• Real meat is the #1 ingredient, providing protein to keep your dog healthy and active.
• No added chicken by-product meal, corn, wheat, soy, artificial colors, flavors, or preservatives.
• Formulated with the help of veterinarians and a pet nutritionist, made in a family-owned facility in California, USA.

Cons

• Packaging is transitioning and may vary from the picture.
• Some dogs may not like the taste or texture of the food.
• Some customers have reported issues with their dogs experiencing digestive upset after switching to this food.

We recently tried WAG Chicken and Brown Rice Dog Food with our furry friend, and we were impressed with the quality of the ingredients and the affordable price. The real meat first approach ensures that our dog is getting the protein she needs to stay healthy and active, and we appreciate the lack of fillers or artificial ingredients.

While the packaging is transitioning, we didn’t have any issues with the bag we received, and the food itself looked and smelled fresh. Our dog seemed to enjoy the taste of the food and didn’t experience any digestive upset, but we understand that every dog is different and some may have trouble transitioning to a new food.

Overall, we would recommend WAG Chicken and Brown Rice Dog Food to anyone looking for an affordable and high-quality dog food option. Just be sure to transition your dog slowly to help avoid any digestive upset.

Rachael Ray Nutrish Premium Natural Dry Dog Food, Real Chicken -amp; Veggies Recipe, 14 Pounds Dry Food Chicken -amp; Veggies 14 Pound (Pack of 1)

If you’re looking for an affordable and healthy dog food option, Rachael Ray Nutrish Real Chicken -amp; Veggies Recipe is a great choice.

Pros

• Made with real chicken as the number one ingredient
• Contains fiber sources including peas and brown rice to help support healthy digestion
• Includes Nutrish’s Whole Health Blend which helps support a healthy mind, body, and energy level

Cons

• Some users have reported issues with the bag not being big enough for multiple dogs
• A few customers have had trouble with the product getting through customs in Canada
• May not be suitable for dogs with specific dietary restrictions

We’ve been using Rachael Ray Nutrish Real Chicken -amp; Veggies Recipe for a few months now and have been really happy with the results. Our dog seems to love the taste and we’ve noticed an improvement in his energy levels and overall health.

One thing we particularly like about this dog food is that it contains real chicken as the number one ingredient. This helps support healthy organs and maintain lean muscle mass in our dog. We also appreciate that it contains fiber sources including peas and brown rice to help support healthy digestion.

Another great feature of this dog food is Nutrish’s Whole Health Blend, which includes omega-3 fatty acids from fish oil to help support an active mind, antioxidants like those found in superfoods to help support a healthy body, and whole grains to help maintain balanced energy levels.

While there have been some reports of issues with the bag size and customs in Canada, we haven’t experienced any problems ourselves. However, it’s worth noting that this dog food may not be suitable for dogs with specific dietary restrictions.

Overall, we would definitely recommend Rachael Ray Nutrish Real Chicken -amp; Veggies Recipe to other dog owners looking for a healthy and affordable dog food option. Plus, the fact that a portion of the proceeds from the sale of every Nutrish dog food product will be donated to The Rachael Ray Foundation, which helps animals in need, is an added bonus.

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 option for your small breed puppy, then Blue Buffalo Baby Blue Healthy Growth Formula Natural Puppy Dry Dog Food is definitely worth considering. With high-quality protein from real chicken, along with wholesome whole grains, garden veggies, and fruits, this recipe is designed to provide all the nutrients your furry friend needs for healthy growth and play.

Pros

• Real chicken first for healthy muscle development
• Contains DHA and ARA for cognitive function and retinal health
• LifeSource Bits for a healthy immune system

Cons

• Formula adjustments may occur from time to time
• Packaging may vary
• Some puppies may not like the taste

This puppy food is specially formulated for small breed puppies, with DHA and ARA to support cognitive function and retinal health. It also contains LifeSource Bits, a precise blend of antioxidants, vitamins, and minerals to support your puppy’s healthy immune system.

One of the best things about this puppy food is that it features high-quality protein from real chicken to support healthy muscle development. Plus, it contains wholesome whole grains, garden veggies, and fruits for a balanced and nutritious diet.

While there may be occasional formula adjustments, this won’t impact the guaranteed analysis or introduce new allergens. Additionally, the packaging may vary, but the contents will always remain the same.

Overall, we highly recommend Blue Buffalo Baby Blue Healthy Growth Formula Natural Puppy Dry Dog Food for anyone looking for a natural and healthy option for their small breed puppy. With its high-quality ingredients and balanced nutrition, it’s a great choice for your furry friend’s healthy growth and development.

IAMS Minichunks Adult Dry Dog Food Lamb -amp; Rice Recipe Dog Kibble, 30 lb. Bag Lamb,Rice 30 Pound (Pack of 1)

If you’re looking for a high-quality dog food that supports healthy digestion and promotes skin and coat health, IAMS Minichunks Adult Dry Dog Food with Lamb and Rice is a great option.

Pros

• Real, premium lamb is the first ingredient
• Promotes healthy digestion with a tailored blend of wholesome fibers and prebiotics
• Promotes skin and coat health with omega-6 fatty acids

Cons

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

We recently tried IAMS Minichunks Adult Dry Dog Food with Lamb and Rice for our dog and were impressed with the quality of the ingredients. The real, premium lamb as the first ingredient gave us confidence that our dog was getting a high-quality source of protein. We also noticed that our dog’s coat seemed shinier and healthier after switching to this food.

One of the things we appreciated about this dog food was the tailored blend of wholesome fibers and prebiotics that promote healthy digestion. Our dog has a sensitive stomach, but we didn’t notice any digestive issues after making the switch to IAMS Minichunks Adult Dry Dog Food with Lamb and Rice.

While we were overall very satisfied with this dog food, we did notice that it was more expensive than some other brands we’ve tried. Additionally, some dogs may not like the taste of this food, so it may not be the best option for picky eaters.

Overall, we would recommend IAMS Minichunks Adult Dry Dog Food with Lamb and Rice to anyone looking for a high-quality dog food that promotes healthy digestion and skin and coat health.

IAMS Proactive Health Large Breed Adult Dry Dog Food Lamb -amp; Rice Recipe, 30 lb. Bag

If you want to give your large breed dog a complete and balanced meal that supports strong muscles, healthy heart, and whole body health, IAMS Proactive Health Large Breed Adult Dry Dog Food Lamb -amp; Rice Recipe is a great choice. With real lamb as the first ingredient and protein sourced from chicken and egg, this dry dog food recipe is tasty and nutritious.

Pros

• 100% complete -amp; balanced adult dog food with 0% fillers
• Includes natural sources of glucosamine -amp; chondroitin for strong bones and joints
• Contains 7 essential nutrients to support a healthy heart

Cons

• Some dogs may not like the taste
• May cause digestive issues in some dogs
• Not suitable for dogs with lamb or rice allergies

We have been using IAMS Proactive Health Large Breed Adult Dry Dog Food Lamb -amp; Rice Recipe for our German Shepherd for the past six months, and we are happy with the results. Our dog’s coat looks shiny and healthy, and he has plenty of energy for his daily activities. The kibble size is perfect for his large breed, and he seems to enjoy the taste.

One thing we like about this dog food is that it doesn’t contain any fillers, so we know our dog is getting all the nutrients he needs without any unnecessary ingredients. We also appreciate that it includes natural sources of glucosamine -amp; chondroitin, which helps support his bones and joints as he grows older.

However, we have noticed that some dogs may not like the taste of this dog food, so it’s important to introduce it gradually and monitor your dog’s reaction. We have also heard from some dog owners that their dogs experienced digestive issues after switching to this dog food, so it’s important to consult with your veterinarian before making any changes to your dog’s diet.

Overall, we would recommend IAMS Proactive Health Large Breed Adult Dry Dog Food Lamb -amp; Rice Recipe to other large breed dog owners who are looking for a complete and balanced meal that supports their dog’s overall health and well-being.

IAMS Advanced Health Adult Healthy Digestion Dry Dog Food with Real Chicken

We highly recommend purchasing IAMS Advanced Health Adult Healthy Digestion Dry Dog Food with Real Chicken as it is a complete and balanced meal that supports whole-body health with essential nutrients.

Pros

• Made with real farm-raised chicken as the #1 ingredient
• Supports regularity and healthy stools with a blend of natural fiber and prebiotics
• Helps support nutrient absorption with fiber from beet pulp and prebiotics

Cons

• May not be suitable for dogs with chicken allergies
• Some dogs may not like the taste
• Contains trace amounts of wheat, artificial flavors, or preservatives due to potential cross-contact during manufacturing

This dog food is a great everyday solution to support your dog’s whole-body health throughout life. The prebiotics and guaranteed live probiotics in the recipe support regularity and healthy stools with a blend of natural fiber. Additionally, the fiber from beet pulp and prebiotics in this recipe support nutrient absorption. We have noticed that our dog’s digestion has improved since switching to this product.

Made with real, farm-raised chicken, IAMS Advanced Health Healthy Digestion is formulated without wheat, artificial flavors, or artificial preservatives. The recipe contains wholesome grains and essential nutrients that help provide the energy your pup needs for everyday activities and socialization. We have also noticed that our dog has more energy and vitality since switching to this product.

In conclusion, IAMS Advanced Health Adult Healthy Digestion Dry Dog Food with Real Chicken is a great option for dogs who need support for their digestive health. The recipe is complete and balanced, made with real chicken, and supports regularity and healthy stools with a blend of natural fiber and prebiotics.

IAMS Proactive Health Minichunks Adult Dry Dog Food with Real Chicken and Whole Grains, 15 lb. Bag

If you’re looking for a high-quality dog food that is tailored to meet your dog’s unique nutritional needs, IAMS Proactive Health Minichunks Adult Dry Dog Food with Real Chicken and Whole Grains is definitely worth considering.

Pros

• Supports healthy digestion with a blend of natural fiber and prebiotics
• Formulated to support whole-body health, including 7 essential nutrients to help support a healthy heart
• Enriched with antioxidants to help maintain a strong immune system

Cons

• Some dogs may not like the taste
• May cause gastrointestinal upset in some dogs
• Contains chicken by-product meal, which may not be suitable for all dogs

Our experience with IAMS Proactive Health Minichunks Adult Dry Dog Food has been overwhelmingly positive. Our dog loves the smaller kibble size, which makes mealtime more enjoyable for her. We’ve also noticed that her coat is softer and shinier since we switched to this food, thanks to the Omega-6 fatty acids in the recipe that support healthy skin.

One of the things we appreciate about this food is that it is made with real chicken as the first ingredient. We also like that it contains a tailored blend of natural fiber and prebiotics to support healthy digestion, as well as antioxidants to help maintain a strong immune system.

While we’ve had a great experience with this food, we do want to note that some dogs may not like the taste, and it may cause gastrointestinal upset in some dogs. Additionally, it does contain chicken by-product meal, which may not be suitable for all dogs.

Overall, we highly recommend IAMS Proactive Health Minichunks Adult Dry Dog Food with Real Chicken and Whole Grains for any dog owner looking for a high-quality, tailored dog food that will help keep their pet healthy and happy.

Stella -amp; Chewy’s Wild Red Dry Dog Food Raw Coated High Protein Grain -amp; Legume Free Ocean Recipe, 3.5 lb. Bag Ocean Recipe 3.5 Pound (Pack of 1)

If you’re looking for a high-quality dog food that’s packed with protein and free from unnecessary fillers, Stella -amp; Chewy’s Wild Red Dry Dog Food is a great choice. With a delicious ocean recipe that includes six different fish protein sources, this food is perfect for dogs with poultry allergies.

Pros

• The freeze-dried raw meat coating on each bite adds a delicious, protein-rich flavor that dogs love.
• This grain-free recipe is easy to digest and free from unnecessary fillers.
• The whole prey ingredients, including animal muscle meat, cartilage, and organ meat, help your dog thrive.

Cons

• Some reviewers have noted that the price of this dog food is on the high side.
• A few customers have reported that the expiration date on their bags was shorter than expected.
• While most dogs seem to love this food, a small number may not take to it right away.

Overall, we highly recommend Stella -amp; Chewy’s Wild Red Dry Dog Food to anyone looking for a high-quality, protein-packed dog food that’s free from unnecessary fillers. With a delicious ocean recipe that includes six different fish protein sources, this food is perfect for dogs with poultry allergies. The freeze-dried raw meat coating on each bite adds a delicious, protein-rich flavor that dogs love, while the whole prey ingredients help your dog thrive. Just be aware that this food is a bit pricey, and some customers have reported shorter-than-expected expiration dates on their bags.

Purina Pro Plan Sensitive Skin and Stomach Dog Food Salmon and Rice Formula

If you’re looking for a high protein dog food formula that is gentle on your dog’s sensitive skin and stomach, Purina Pro Plan Sensitive Skin and Stomach Salmon and Rice Formula adult dry dog food could be the perfect solution.

Pros

• Made with real salmon as the first ingredient
• Contains fish oil rich in omega-3 fatty acids for joint health
• Rich in antioxidants to bolster your dog’s healthy immune system

Cons

• Some dogs may not like the taste of salmon
• Expensive compared to other dog food options
• May not be suitable for dogs with severe food allergies

Our furry friend had been suffering from itchy skin and an upset stomach for a while, and we were desperate to find a solution. We tried a few different dog foods, but nothing seemed to help. That’s when we decided to give Purina Pro Plan Sensitive Skin and Stomach Salmon and Rice Formula a try, and we’re so glad we did.

One of the things we love about this dog food is that it’s made with real salmon as the first ingredient. This means that our dog is getting a high-quality source of protein that is easy to digest. Plus, the fish oil in the formula is rich in omega-3 fatty acids, which are great for supporting joint health.

Another great thing about this dog food is that it’s rich in antioxidants, which help to support our dog’s healthy immune system. We’ve noticed that our dog has been getting sick less often since we switched to this formula.

Of course, there are a few downsides to this dog food. Some dogs may not like the taste of salmon, so it’s important to keep that in mind. Additionally, this formula is more expensive than some other dog food options, so it may not be the best choice if you’re on a tight budget. Finally, if your dog has severe food allergies, this formula may not be suitable for them.

Overall, we’ve been very happy with Purina Pro Plan Sensitive Skin and Stomach Salmon and Rice Formula. It’s helped to alleviate our dog’s skin and stomach issues, and we feel good knowing that we’re feeding him a high-quality, nutrient-rich dog food.

Natural Balance Limited Ingredient Adult Grain-Free Dry Dog Food, Reserve Sweet Potato -amp; Venison Recipe, 4 Pound (Pack of 1) Sweet Potato -amp; Venison 4 Pound (Pack of 1)

If you’re looking for a high-quality dog food that’s free from fillers, added corn, wheat, soy, or artificial flavors, colors, or preservatives, then Natural Balance L.I.D. Limited Ingredient Diets Sweet Potato -amp; Venison Formula is a great choice. It’s crafted with purposefully selected ingredients, including gluten-free carbohydrate sources to provide your dog with energy and a single source of animal protein to help maintain strong, lean muscle. Here’s what we found are the pros and cons of this dog food:

Pros

• Venison is the single 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.
• Nutrition for every type of dog: any dog can enjoy our delicious recipes, not just dogs with sensitive stomachs, irritable skin, or allergies.

Cons

• Some dogs may not like the taste of venison.
• Some dogs may experience digestive issues when transitioning to this limited ingredient dog food.
• Some customers have reported receiving bags with a strong odor.

We’ve been feeding our dog Natural Balance L.I.D. Limited Ingredient Diets Sweet Potato -amp; Venison Formula for a few months now, and we’re impressed with the results. Our dog has a sensitive stomach, and this dog food has helped reduce her digestive issues. The limited ingredient dog food has also helped improve her coat and skin health. We appreciate that Natural Balance tests every batch of food for safety and transparency, giving us peace of mind when feeding our dog. Overall, we highly recommend Natural Balance L.I.D. Limited Ingredient Diets Sweet Potato -amp; Venison Formula to any dog owner looking for a high-quality dog food that’s free from fillers and artificial ingredients.

Buying Guide

When it comes to choosing the best dog food for your furry friend, there are a few key features to look for. Here are some things to consider:

Ingredients

One of the most important factors to consider when choosing a dog food is the ingredients list. Look for high-quality proteins, such as real meat or fish, as the first ingredient. Avoid foods that list “meat by-products” or “animal digest” as these can be low-quality sources of protein.

Also, pay attention to the carbohydrate sources and try to avoid foods that rely heavily on grains or fillers. Look for foods that contain whole grains, vegetables, and fruits as sources of carbohydrates.

Nutritional Value

Make sure the dog food you choose is nutritionally balanced and meets the needs of your dog’s age, breed, and activity level. Look for foods that meet the standards set by the Association of American Feed Control Officials (AAFCO).

Brand Reputation

Choose a reputable brand with a track record of producing high-quality dog food. Look for brands that have been in business for a long time and have a history of producing safe, nutritious dog food.

Price

While price shouldn’t be the only factor you consider, it’s important to choose a dog food that fits within your budget. Keep in mind that high-quality dog food may cost more upfront, but it can save you money in the long run by keeping your dog healthy and reducing vet bills.

Feeding Guidelines

Follow the feeding guidelines provided on the dog food packaging to ensure that your dog is getting the right amount of food. Overfeeding can lead to obesity and other health problems, while underfeeding can result in malnutrition.

By considering these factors, you can choose the best dog food for your furry friend and help ensure their health and happiness.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the top-rated dog foods according to consumer reports?

Consumer reports have rated several dog food brands highly based on their ingredients, quality, and safety. Some of the top-rated dog foods include Blue Buffalo, Nutro, Orijen, and Taste of the Wild. These brands have consistently received positive reviews from dog owners and are known for their high-quality ingredients and nutritional value.

Which dog food brands are recommended for large breed dogs?

Large breed dogs have specific nutritional needs that should be met through their diet. Some of the dog food brands that are recommended for large breed dogs include Royal Canin, Hill’s Science Diet, Purina Pro Plan, and Eukanuba. These brands are known for their high-quality ingredients, balanced nutrition, and support for joint health.

What are some dog food brands that veterinarians suggest to avoid?

Some dog food brands have been linked to health issues in dogs and are not recommended by veterinarians. These brands include Ol’ Roy, Kibbles ‘n Bits, Beneful, and Gravy Train. These brands have been criticized for their low-quality ingredients and potential health risks.

What is considered the healthiest brand of dry dog food?

Several brands of dry dog food are considered to be the healthiest based on their ingredients and nutritional value. Some of these brands include Orijen, Acana, Canidae, and Wellness. These brands use high-quality ingredients and are free from fillers, by-products, and artificial preservatives.

How does Royal Canin rank in terms of dog food quality?

Royal Canin is a well-known brand of dog food that is often recommended by veterinarians. The brand is known for its high-quality ingredients and balanced nutrition. While some critics have raised concerns about the brand’s use of by-products and fillers, Royal Canin remains a popular choice among dog owners and professionals.

What do professional dog food advisors say about the best dog food on the market?

Professional dog food advisors have different opinions on the best dog food on the market. However, most agree that high-quality ingredients, balanced nutrition, and safety are essential factors to consider when choosing a dog food brand. Some of the top brands recommended by professionals include Orijen, Acana, Blue Buffalo, and Nutro.