Best Dry Dog Foods Ranked: Top 10 Options for Your Furry Friend

Dry dog food is a popular and convenient choice for pet owners who want to provide their furry friends with a balanced and nutritious diet. This type of dog food is easy to store, has a long shelf life, and is generally less expensive than wet food. With so many options available on the market, it can be overwhelming to choose the right dry dog food for your pet.

When looking for the best dry dog food, there are several factors to consider. One of the most important is the quality of the ingredients. Look for a dog food that contains high-quality proteins, such as chicken, beef, or fish, as well as whole grains, vegetables, and fruits. Avoid dog foods that contain fillers, artificial preservatives, and by-products.

Another important factor to consider is your dog’s age, breed, and size. Different dogs have different nutritional needs, and it’s important to choose a dog food that is appropriate for your pet’s specific requirements. For example, puppies need more protein and fat to support their growth and development, while senior dogs may require a dog food that is lower in calories to help maintain a healthy weight.

We spent hours researching and testing different brands of dry dog food to identify the ones that offer the best nutrition and value for your money. In the next section, we’ll share our top picks for the best dry dog foods ranked, based on factors such as ingredient quality, nutritional value, and customer reviews.

Best Dry Dog Foods Ranked

As pet owners, we all want to provide the best nutrition for our furry friends. With so many options available, it can be overwhelming to choose the right dry dog food for your pup. That’s why we’ve done the research and compiled a list of the best dry dog foods on the market. Our ranking takes into consideration factors such as ingredients, nutritional value, and customer reviews. Whether you have a puppy or a senior dog, a small breed or a large breed, we’ve got you covered. Check out our top picks below.

Pawstruck All Natural Air Dried Dog Food w/Real Chicken

If you’re looking for a high-quality, all-natural dry dog food that’s made in the USA, then the Pawstruck All Natural Air Dried Dog Food w/Real Chicken is definitely worth considering.

Pros

• The air-drying process helps to retain maximum nutrition and flavor, making it a great alternative to highly-processed kibble.
• Made with 97% chicken, this single-protein, grain-free, gluten-free, and paleo-inspired recipe is perfect for satisfying your pup’s carnivore cravings.
• The added vitamins and minerals may help support healthy joints and hips, making it a great choice for dogs of all ages and breeds.

Cons

• Some customers have noted that the food crumbles easily, which can be a bit messy.
• At a higher price point, it may not be the most budget-friendly option for some pet owners.
• A few customers have reported that their dogs didn’t like the taste or texture of the food.

Overall, we think that the Pawstruck All Natural Air Dried Dog Food w/Real Chicken is a great choice for pet owners who want to give their dogs a high-quality, all-natural dry food option. While it may be a bit more expensive than some other options, the added nutritional benefits and high-quality ingredients make it well worth the investment.

Wellness Complete Health Toy Breed Dry Dog Food with Grains, Chicken -amp; Rice, 4-Pound Bag

We highly recommend the Wellness Complete Health Toy Breed Dry Dog Food with Grains, Chicken -amp; Rice, 4-Pound Bag for your furry friend. This natural pet food is made with carefully chosen, authentic ingredients for everyday health, providing whole-body nutritional support to promote complete health.

Pros

• The kibble is protein-rich, made with ingredients such as chicken, brown rice, and peas for whole body health.
• It is all-natural, created by nutritionists, veterinarians, and animal lovers, providing an ideal balance of nature’s finest ingredients, carefully selected to nourish and sustain your dog’s wellbeing.
• The food supports healthy body weight and immune system, supported by antioxidants for strong immune systems, probiotics for digestive health, vitamins for healthy eyes and teeth, taurine for a healthy heart, and omega fatty acids ensure healthy skin and coat.

Cons

• The food is not grain-free, which may not be suitable for dogs with grain allergies.
• Some dogs may not like the taste of the food.
• The food is a bit expensive compared to other dog food brands.

We have been using this dog food for our furry friend for a while now, and we are very satisfied with the results. Our dog loves the taste of the food, and we have noticed a significant improvement in his overall health. The kibble is small and easy for him to chew, and we appreciate that it is made with all-natural ingredients.

One thing to note is that the food is not grain-free, so it may not be suitable for dogs with grain allergies. Additionally, some dogs may not like the taste of the food, so it may take some time to find the right brand for your furry friend.

Overall, we highly recommend the Wellness Complete Health Toy Breed Dry Dog Food with Grains, Chicken -amp; Rice, 4-Pound Bag for its high-quality ingredients and nutritional value. It may be a bit expensive compared to other dog food brands, but we believe that it is worth the investment for your furry friend’s health and wellbeing.

Wellness CORE Grain-Free High-Protein Dry Dog Food

If you’re looking for a grain-free dry dog food that provides complete and balanced nutrition, then the Wellness CORE Grain-Free High-Protein Dry Dog Food is an excellent choice. We recommend this product for its high-quality ingredients, lean protein content, and nutrient-rich superfoods.

Pros

• The premium protein from responsibly sourced turkey provides your dog with the essential amino acids needed to support lean body mass and muscle tone.
• The guaranteed levels of omega fatty acids from ingredients such as flaxseed and salmon oil support healthy skin and coat.
• This dog food is made with only premium, all-natural ingredients and contains no poultry by-products, wheat, wheat gluten, corn, soy, artificial colors, or preservatives.

Cons

• The price of this dog food may be higher than other brands.
• Some customers have reported that their dogs did not like the taste of this dog food.
• The size of the kibble may be too large for some dogs.

We have been using the Wellness CORE Grain-Free High-Protein Dry Dog Food for several months now, and our dogs have shown significant improvements in their coat and digestive health. The high-quality protein content has helped our dogs maintain a healthy weight and build muscle. Additionally, the nutrient-rich superfoods have helped support their immune system and overall health.

One thing to note is that the kibble size may be too large for some smaller dogs, but we have found that our dogs have no problem chewing and digesting it. While the price of this dog food may be higher than other brands, we believe that the quality of the ingredients justifies the cost.

Overall, we highly recommend the Wellness CORE Grain-Free High-Protein Dry Dog Food for any dog owner looking to provide their furry friend with a nutritious and delicious meal.

NUTRO ULTRA Adult Weight Management High Protein Natural Dry Dog Food

If you want to manage your dog’s weight while still providing them with delicious, protein-rich food, then NUTRO ULTRA Adult Weight Management High Protein Natural Dry Dog Food is a great option.

Pros

• The trio of proteins from chicken, lamb, and salmon make it a highly nutritious option for your furry friend.
• The 15 vibrant superfoods, including coconut, chia, kale, and blueberries, provide your dog with a balanced diet.
• The recipe is made with high-quality, real ingredients sourced from trusted farmers and suppliers, ensuring your dog gets the best nutrition.

Cons

• Some dogs may not like the taste of this food.
• It may not be suitable for dogs with certain allergies or dietary restrictions.
• It is a bit more expensive than other dry dog food options.

We recently tried NUTRO ULTRA Adult Weight Management High Protein Natural Dry Dog Food with our overweight dog, and were impressed with the results. The trio of proteins from chicken, lamb, and salmon made it a highly nutritious option, while the 15 vibrant superfoods provided our dog with a balanced diet. We were also happy to know that the recipe is made with high-quality, real ingredients sourced from trusted farmers and suppliers, ensuring our dog gets the best nutrition.

While our dog loved the taste of this food, we understand that some dogs may not like it as much. Additionally, it may not be suitable for dogs with certain allergies or dietary restrictions. However, if you’re looking for a high-quality dry dog food that can help manage your dog’s weight, NUTRO ULTRA Adult Weight Management High Protein Natural Dry Dog Food is definitely worth considering.

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 high-quality dry dog food that provides complete and balanced nutrition for adult dogs, then NUTRO ULTRA Adult Dry Dog Food is worth considering.

Pros

• The trio of protein from chicken, lamb, and salmon provides a good source of protein for adult dogs.
• The blend of 15 vibrant superfoods, like coconut, chia, kale, blueberries, and other quality ingredients, ensures that your dog gets all the necessary nutrients.
• Made with no chicken by-product meal, corn, soy, or wheat, and no artificial flavors, colors, or preservatives.

Cons

• Some dogs may not like the taste, although this is a matter of personal preference.
• The price may be higher than some other brands of dog food.
• The bag may not be large enough for larger dogs or households with multiple dogs.

We’ve been using NUTRO ULTRA Adult Dry Dog Food for several months now and have noticed a significant improvement in our dog’s coat and overall health. The trio of protein from chicken, lamb, and salmon provides a good source of protein for adult dogs, and the blend of 15 vibrant superfoods ensures that our dog gets all the necessary nutrients.

One thing to keep in mind is that some dogs may not like the taste of NUTRO ULTRA Adult Dry Dog Food, although this is a matter of personal preference. Additionally, the price may be higher than some other brands of dog food, although we believe that the quality of the ingredients justifies the cost.

Overall, we would recommend NUTRO ULTRA Adult Dry Dog Food to anyone looking for a high-quality dry dog food that provides complete and balanced nutrition for adult dogs.

Nutro So Simple with Beef Adult Dog Food, 25 lb. 25 Pound (Pack of 1)

If you’re looking for a simple, nutritious, and flavorful dry dog food for your furry friend, Nutro So Simple with Beef Adult Dog Food is a great option to consider.

Pros

• Crafted with real, recognizable ingredients and without grains, chicken by-product meal, corn, wheat or soy, and no artificial flavors, colors or preservatives.
• The recipe features real beef as the #1 ingredient, making it a tasty and protein-rich meal for your dog.
• The kibble is nutrient-dense, so your dog gets the right amount of calories in a complete and nutritious meal.

Cons

• Some customers have reported that the price of this product has increased significantly over time.
• Some dogs may not love the taste of this food or may experience digestive issues after eating it.
• The feeding guidelines provided on the bag may not be accurate for all dogs, so you may need to adjust the amount you feed your pet accordingly.

We’ve been using Nutro So Simple with Beef Adult Dog Food for a few months now, and we’re impressed with the quality of the ingredients and the taste of the food. Our dog seems to really enjoy this kibble, and we’ve noticed that her coat looks shinier and healthier since we switched to this brand.

One thing we appreciate about this product is that it’s made without any artificial flavors, colors, or preservatives, so we feel good about feeding it to our dog. Additionally, the recipe features real beef as the #1 ingredient, which is a great source of protein for dogs.

That being said, we have noticed that the price of this product has increased significantly since we started using it, which is a bit disappointing. Additionally, we’ve heard from some other dog owners that their pets didn’t enjoy the taste of this food or experienced digestive issues after eating it, so it may not be the best choice for every dog.

Overall, we would recommend Nutro So Simple with Beef Adult Dog Food to other pet owners who are looking for a simple, nutritious, and flavorful dry dog food for their furry friend. Just be sure to monitor your dog’s reaction to the food and adjust the amount you feed them as needed.

NUTRO ULTRA Adult Large Breed 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 high-quality dry dog food that is packed with nutrients and flavor, then NUTRO ULTRA Adult Large Breed High Protein Natural Dry Dog Food is an excellent choice. Our experience with this product has been nothing but positive, and we highly recommend it to anyone looking for a premium dog food.

Pros

• Made with real chicken as the #1 ingredient, along with lamb and salmon for a trio of high-quality proteins
• Features a blend of 15 vibrant superfoods like coconut, chia, kale, and blueberries for added nutrition and flavor
• Contains 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 or texture of the kibble
• The price point may be higher than some other dog food brands
• May not be suitable for dogs with certain dietary restrictions or allergies

We have been feeding our large breed dog NUTRO ULTRA Adult Large Breed High Protein Natural Dry Dog Food for several months now, and we have noticed a significant improvement in his overall health and energy levels. The kibble is made with high-quality ingredients, and we appreciate that it contains no artificial flavors, colors, or preservatives.

Our dog loves the taste of the kibble, and we like that it features a blend of 15 vibrant superfoods that provide added nutrition and flavor. We also appreciate that the kibble is made with a trio of high-quality proteins from chicken, lamb, and salmon, which gives our dog the nutrients he needs to thrive.

While the price point of NUTRO ULTRA Adult Large Breed High Protein Natural Dry Dog Food may be higher than some other dog food brands, we believe that the quality of the product is well worth the investment. Overall, we highly recommend this product to anyone looking for a premium dry dog food that is packed with nutrients and flavor.

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

If you’re looking for a high-quality dry dog food that’s specially formulated for small breed adult dogs, then NUTRO ULTRA Adult Small Breed High Protein Natural Dry Dog Food is an excellent option to consider. With its trio of proteins from chicken, lamb, and salmon and 15 vibrant superfoods, this product provides complete and balanced nutrition for your furry friend.

Pros

• Made with high-quality ingredients sourced from trusted farmers and suppliers
• No chicken by-product meal, corn, soy, or wheat, and no artificial flavors, colors, or preservatives
• Provides complete and balanced nutrition for small breed adult dogs

Cons

• Some dogs may not like the taste or texture of the kibble
• The price point may be higher than other dry dog food options
• The bag size may not be convenient for larger dogs or households with multiple dogs

We’ve been using NUTRO ULTRA Adult Small Breed High Protein Natural Dry Dog Food for our small breed dog for several months now, and we’re very happy with the results. Our dog seems to enjoy the taste and texture of the kibble, and we’ve noticed an improvement in her coat and overall health since switching to this product.

One of the things we appreciate about this dog food is that it’s made with high-quality ingredients that are sourced from trusted farmers and suppliers. We feel good about feeding our dog a product that’s made with real chicken, lamb, and salmon and doesn’t contain any chicken by-product meal, corn, soy, or wheat. Additionally, the lack of artificial flavors, colors, or preservatives is a big plus for us.

Another benefit of this product is that it provides complete and balanced nutrition for small breed adult dogs. We don’t have to worry about supplementing our dog’s diet with additional vitamins or minerals, as this product contains everything she needs to thrive.

While we haven’t experienced any major drawbacks with this product, we do acknowledge that some dogs may not like the taste or texture of the kibble. Additionally, the price point may be higher than other dry dog food options, and the bag size may not be convenient for larger dogs or households with multiple dogs.

Overall, we would definitely recommend NUTRO ULTRA Adult Small Breed High Protein Natural Dry Dog Food to other pet owners who are looking for a high-quality product that provides complete and balanced nutrition for their furry friends.

Purina Pro Plan High Protein Small Breed Dog Food, Chicken -amp; Rice Formula

If you’re looking for a high-quality dog food that is designed specifically for small breeds, Purina Pro Plan Small Breed Chicken and Rice Formula is an excellent choice. With real chicken as the first ingredient, this dry dog food is packed with protein to meet the unique needs of your active small dog.

Pros

• High in protein, including real chicken as the first ingredient
• Fortified with guaranteed live probiotics for digestive and immune health
• Nutrient-dense, bite-sized kibble helps make chewing easier for small breed dogs

Cons

• Contains wheat bran, which may not be suitable for dogs with grain sensitivities
• Some dogs may not like the taste or texture of the kibble
• More expensive than some other brands of dog food

We’ve been using Purina Pro Plan Small Breed Chicken and Rice Formula for our small dog for several months now, and we’ve been very happy with the results. Our dog loves the taste of the kibble, and we’ve noticed that he has more energy and a shinier coat since we switched to this food. We also appreciate that this dog food is fortified with live probiotics for digestive and immune health, which is especially important for small dogs who may be more susceptible to health issues.

One thing to keep in mind is that this dog food contains wheat bran, which may not be suitable for dogs with grain sensitivities. We haven’t had any issues with this ourselves, but it’s something to be aware of if your dog has a sensitive stomach. Additionally, some dogs may not like the taste or texture of the kibble, so it may take some trial and error to find a food that your dog enjoys.

Overall, we would highly recommend Purina Pro Plan Small Breed Chicken and Rice Formula to anyone looking for a high-quality dog food for their small breed dog. While it is more expensive than some other brands of dog food, we believe that the quality of the ingredients and the benefits for our dog’s health are well worth the cost.

A Better | Salmon Dry Dog Food | Raw You Can See | High Protein Kibble Freeze Dried Raw Dog Food Salmon 4 Pound (Pack of 1)

If you’re looking for a high-quality dry dog food that’s packed with protein and made with whole food ingredients, A Better | Salmon Dry Dog Food is a great choice.

Pros

• The raw, freeze-dried salmon, broccoli, and carrot ingredients make it a healthy and irresistible dog food.
• The freeze-dried raw pieces, made with salmon and broccoli, boost the nutrient content of the food.
• The kibble is formulated by a Ph.D. in Animal Nutrition and is AAFCO approved, with salmon as the #1 ingredient.

Cons

• The salmon chunks are few, so it may not be ideal for dogs that prefer larger chunks.
• The price point may be higher than some other brands.
• The kibble may not be suitable for dogs with certain dietary restrictions.

We’ve been using A Better | Salmon Dry Dog Food for a few months now, and our dog loves it. The raw, freeze-dried salmon, broccoli, and carrot ingredients are visible, so we know exactly what we’re feeding our pup. The freeze-dried raw pieces are a great addition, as they add fiber and Omega-3 to the food. The kibble is high in protein, and our dog’s coat is shinier than ever since we switched to this food.

One downside of the food is that the salmon chunks are quite small, and our dog prefers larger chunks. Additionally, the price point may be higher than some other brands, but we believe that the quality of the ingredients justifies the price. Finally, the kibble may not be suitable for dogs with certain dietary restrictions, so be sure to check with your vet before switching to this food.

Overall, we highly recommend A Better | Salmon Dry Dog Food for pet parents who want to feed their dog a high-quality, whole food-based dry dog food.

Buying Guide

When it comes to choosing the best dry dog food, there are several factors to consider. We have compiled a list of features that are important to look for when selecting the right product for your furry friend.

Ingredients

The first thing to consider is the ingredients list. Look for high-quality protein sources such as chicken, beef, or fish. Avoid products that contain fillers or by-products. It’s also important to check for any potential allergens that your dog may have, such as grains or certain types of meat.

Nutritional Value

Check the nutritional value of the product. Look for foods that have a balanced ratio of protein, fat, and carbohydrates. The food should also contain essential vitamins and minerals to support your dog’s overall health.

Brand Reputation

Consider the reputation of the brand. Look for companies that have a good track record of producing high-quality dog food. Check for any recalls or negative reviews to ensure that you are purchasing a safe and reliable product.

Price

Price is also an important factor to consider. While you don’t want to skimp on your dog’s nutrition, you also don’t want to overspend. Look for products that fit within your budget while still providing high-quality ingredients and nutritional value.

By considering these factors, you can choose the best dry dog food for your furry friend. Be sure to consult with your veterinarian if you have any concerns or questions about your dog’s dietary needs.

Frequently Asked Questions

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

Consumer reports suggest that some of the top-rated dry dog foods include Blue Buffalo Life Protection Formula, Taste of the Wild, Purina Pro Plan, and Wellness Complete Health. These brands have consistently received positive reviews and high ratings from dog owners.

Which dry dog food is considered the healthiest?

There are several dry dog food brands that are considered the healthiest, such as Orijen, Acana, and Canidae. These brands use high-quality ingredients and do not include any artificial preservatives, colors, or flavors. They also have a high protein content and are grain-free, making them a great option for dogs with food sensitivities.

What are the best dry dog food options for large breed dogs?

Large breed dogs have different nutritional needs than smaller dogs, and it’s important to choose a dry dog food that is specifically formulated for their size. Some of the best dry dog food options for large breed dogs include Royal Canin, Hill’s Science Diet, and Nutro Max.

Which dog food brands are recommended by veterinarians?

Veterinarians often recommend dry dog food brands that are high in protein, low in carbohydrates, and have high-quality ingredients. Some of the most recommended brands include Royal Canin, Hill’s Science Diet, and Purina Pro Plan.

Are there any dog food brands that experts suggest avoiding?

There are some dog food brands that experts suggest avoiding due to their low-quality ingredients and potential health risks. These brands include Ol’ Roy, Kibbles ‘n Bits, and Beneful.

What factors contribute to a dry dog food being classified as high-quality?

A dry dog food is classified as high-quality if it contains high-quality protein sources, such as real meat, and does not contain any fillers or artificial preservatives. It should also have a balanced ratio of protein, fat, and carbohydrates and meet the nutritional requirements of dogs at different life stages. Additionally, high-quality dry dog foods are often made by reputable brands that prioritize the health and well-being of dogs.