Best Dog Food for Hunting Breeds: A Comprehensive Guide

Hunting dogs are some of the most active and energetic breeds out there. They require a lot of exercise and a well-balanced diet to maintain their energy levels and overall health. That’s why choosing the right dog food for your hunting breed is essential.

The best dog food for hunting breeds should contain high-quality proteins, healthy fats, and essential nutrients that support strong muscles, bones, and joints. It should also provide enough energy to keep your dog going all day long.

When choosing a dog food for your hunting breed, it’s crucial to pay attention to the ingredients list. Look for high-quality sources of protein like chicken, beef, and fish, and avoid foods that contain fillers like corn, wheat, and soy.

Another critical factor to consider is the calorie content of the food. Hunting breeds require a lot of energy to maintain their active lifestyles, so make sure the food you choose provides enough calories to fuel their activities.

In this article, we spent countless hours researching and testing various dog foods to identify the best options for hunting breeds. We’ll share our top picks and provide you with all the information you need to make an informed decision about your dog’s diet.

Best Dog Food for Hunting Breeds

When it comes to hunting breeds, their nutritional needs are quite different from other dogs. These breeds require food that can provide them with the energy and stamina they need to stay active and alert during long hunting trips. As avid dog lovers and hunting enthusiasts, we have researched and tested various dog food products to bring you the best options for your furry hunting companion. Below is our roundup of the best dog food for hunting breeds that will not only keep them healthy but also enhance their performance in the field.

Taste of the Wild High Prairie Canine Grain-Free Recipe with Roasted Bison and Venison Adult Dry Dog Food

If you’re looking for a high-quality dog food for your hunting breed, we highly recommend Taste of the Wild High Prairie Canine Grain-Free Recipe with Roasted Bison and Venison Adult Dry Dog Food. This grain-free recipe is made with real roasted meat, providing your dog with a taste sensation like no other. It’s also supplemented with vegetables and fruits, delivering antioxidants to help give your friend a healthy lifestyle.

Pros

• Real meat is the #1 ingredient, providing high-protein (32%) to help support bones, joints and lean, strong muscles.
• Nutrient-rich and provides the energy to thrive; vitamins and minerals from fruits and superfoods; omega fatty acids for healthy skin and coat.
• Each serving includes species-specific K9 Strain proprietary probiotics, plus antioxidants and prebiotics, to help support healthy digestion, immune system and overall health and wellness.

Cons

• Some dogs may not like the taste.
• A bit more expensive than other dog food brands.
• May cause digestive issues for some dogs.

We’ve been using this dog food for our hunting breed for several months now, and we’ve noticed a significant improvement in his coat and energy levels. He also seems to love the taste and always finishes his bowl. We appreciate that this dog food is made with high-quality ingredients and is grain-free, which is important for our dog’s health. Overall, we highly recommend Taste of the Wild High Prairie Canine Grain-Free Recipe with Roasted Bison and Venison Adult Dry Dog Food for hunting breeds.

Blue Buffalo Life Protection Formula Small Breed Senior Dry Dog Food

If you’re looking for a high-quality dog food that is specifically formulated for small breed senior dogs, then the Blue Buffalo Life Protection Formula Small Breed Senior Dry Dog Food is an excellent option that you should consider.

Pros

• Made with real chicken as the #1 ingredient for a delicious taste that dogs love
• Contains Glucosamine and Chondroitin for joint health support
• Exclusive antioxidant-rich LifeSource Bits for immune system support

Cons

• More expensive than some other dog food brands
• Some dogs may not like the taste of the chicken and brown rice recipe
• May not be suitable for dogs with certain dietary restrictions

We recently tried out the Blue Buffalo Life Protection Formula Small Breed Senior Dry Dog Food with our senior Jack Russell Terrier, and we were impressed with the results. The kibble size was perfect for our small dog, and he seemed to enjoy the taste of the chicken and brown rice recipe. We also noticed that he had more energy and seemed to be more active after switching to this food.

One of the things that we really liked about this dog food is that it contains Glucosamine and Chondroitin, which are important nutrients for joint health. Our dog is getting older, and we want to make sure that he stays as healthy as possible, so this was a big selling point for us.

Another great feature of this dog food is the exclusive antioxidant-rich LifeSource Bits, which are designed to support your dog’s immune system. We feel good knowing that our dog is getting the nutrients that he needs to stay healthy and happy in his golden years.

Overall, we would definitely recommend the Blue Buffalo Life Protection Formula Small Breed Senior Dry Dog Food to other dog owners who are looking for a high-quality dog food that is specifically formulated for small breed senior dogs. While it may be more expensive than some other dog food brands, we feel that the quality of the ingredients and the health benefits make it worth the investment.

Merrick Grain Free Premium Large Breed Dry Dog Food

If you’re in search of a high-quality, grain-free dog food for your hunting breed, Merrick Grain Free Premium Large Breed Dry Dog Food is a great option to consider.

Pros

• This dog food contains real deboned chicken as the first ingredient, providing high-quality protein to build and maintain healthy muscle tissue.
• With 60% protein and healthy fat ingredients and 40% produce, fiber, vitamins, minerals, and other natural ingredients, this dog food is complete and balanced.
• The recipe is rich in omega-6 and omega-3 fatty acids to nourish skin and coat, and glucosamine and chondroitin for healthy hips and joints.

Cons

• Some customers have reported that the kibble size is too small for larger breeds.
• A few customers have reported receiving bags of food that were infested with ants.
• This dog food may not be suitable for dogs with grain sensitivities.

We have been using Merrick Grain Free Premium Large Breed Dry Dog Food for our hunting breed for several months now, and we have been pleased with the results. Our dog’s coat is shiny and healthy, and he has maintained a healthy weight and energy level. The kibble size is a bit small for our larger breed, but he seems to have no trouble eating it. We appreciate that this food is made with real, whole food ingredients and contains no artificial preservatives or additives.

One thing to note is that this dog food may not be suitable for dogs with grain sensitivities, as it contains no grains but does contain other carbohydrate sources like sweet potatoes. Additionally, a few customers have reported receiving bags of food that were infested with ants, so it’s important to inspect the bag carefully upon arrival.

Overall, we would recommend Merrick Grain Free Premium Large Breed Dry Dog Food to anyone in search of a high-quality, grain-free dog food for their hunting breed.

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 for your hunting breed, Stella -amp; Chewy’s Wild Red Raw Coated kibble is a great option to consider. It’s packed with responsibly sourced, animal-based protein from multiple meat sources and coated with freeze-dried raw meat, providing a protein-rich taste dogs crave with the nutrition they deserve.

Pros

• Love Is Raw: Each bite is coated in delicious and nutritious freeze-dried raw meat, providing a protein-rich taste dogs crave with the nutrition they deserve.
• Feed Your Dog’s Wild Side: Includes six fish protein sources that your dog will sure love: trout, whitefish, salmon, cod, mackerel, and herring — perfect for dogs with poultry allergies.
• Whole Prey Ingredients: 86% of the recipe’s protein comes from animal muscle meat, cartilage, and organ meat, which helps your pet thrive.

Cons

• Price: It’s a bit more expensive than some other dog foods on the market.
• Short Expiration Date: Some customers have reported that the food has a short expiration date, which may be a concern for some pet owners.
• May Not Be Suitable for All Dogs: While this dog food is great for hunting breeds, it may not be suitable for dogs with certain health conditions.

We recently tried Stella -amp; Chewy’s Wild Red Raw Coated kibble with our hunting breed, and we were impressed with the quality of the ingredients. Our dog loved the taste and had no trouble digesting it. The freeze-dried raw meat coating added an extra level of flavor that our dog really enjoyed.

One thing to keep in mind is that this dog food is a bit more expensive than some other options on the market. However, we believe that the quality of the ingredients and the nutritional value make it worth the price.

Overall, if you’re looking for a high-quality dog food for your hunting breed, we would definitely recommend giving Stella -amp; Chewy’s Wild Red Raw Coated kibble a try. It’s packed with protein and other essential nutrients, and it’s sure to satisfy your dog’s cravings for meat.

Stella -amp; Chewy’s Wild Red Dry Dog Food Raw Coated High Protein Wholesome Grains Prairie Recipe, 21 lb. Bag Prairie Recipe 21 Pound (Pack of 1)

If you want to feed your hunting dog with a high-protein and grain-rich diet, Stella -amp; Chewy’s Wild Red Dry Dog Food Raw Coated is the perfect choice. It is a wholesome and nutritious recipe that contains a blend of six different animal protein sources that your dog will love.

Pros

• The recipe includes whole prey ingredients that mimic what your dog’s ancestors ate in the wild, providing your pet with a protein-rich taste that they crave.
• It is fortified with vitamins, minerals, and amino acids, which help to improve your dog’s overall well-being.
• The recipe contains wholesome grains such as barley and oatmeal, which are easily digestible and provide your dog with the energy they need for their hunting activities.

Cons

• Some dogs may not like the taste of the recipe, especially if they are used to eating dog food with artificial flavors.
• The price of the dog food is on the higher side, which may not be affordable for all pet owners.
• The kibble size may be too big for small-breed dogs, making it difficult for them to chew and digest.

We have been using Stella -amp; Chewy’s Wild Red Dry Dog Food Raw Coated for a few weeks now, and our hunting dog loves it. The recipe includes a mix of chicken, turkey, quail, guineafowl, goose, and duck, which provides your dog with a variety of flavors and textures. We have noticed that our dog’s coat is shinier, and they have more energy during their hunting activities.

The recipe is also free from artificial colors, flavors, and preservatives, making it a natural and healthy option for your pet. The inclusion of omega fatty acids from chia and pumpkin seeds and salmon oil provides skin and coat support, which is essential for hunting dogs that spend a lot of time outdoors.

Overall, if you are looking for a high-quality dog food option for your hunting dog, Stella -amp; Chewy’s Wild Red Dry Dog Food Raw Coated is a great choice. The recipe is packed with wholesome ingredients that provide your pet with the nutrition they need to thrive.

ZIWI Peak Air-Dried Dog Food – All Natural, High Protein, Grain Free and Limited Ingredient with Superfoods (Beef, 5.5 lb)

If you’re looking for a high-quality dog food for your hunting breed, ZIWI Peak Air-Dried Dog Food is definitely worth considering. We’ve been using it for a while now, and we’re impressed with the results.

Pros

• The centuries-old slow and gentle air drying method used to make this dog food naturally preserves it without artificial fillers while retaining nutrients and maximizing flavor. Even the pickiest of eaters will love it!
• ZIWI Peak Air-Dried Dog Food is made up of 96% fresh meat, organs, and bones, as well as powerhouse superfoods including green mussels, organic kelp, and green tripe. It doesn’t contain any peas, legumes or potatoes, either.
• This dog food is 100% ethically and sustainably sourced from New Zealand’s free-range farms and pristine blue waters. There are no added hormones, antibiotics, or growth promotants, either.

Cons

• ZIWI Peak Air-Dried Dog Food is a bit more expensive than some other dog foods on the market.
• It may take some time for your dog to adjust to it, especially if they’re used to eating lower-quality dog food.
• Some dogs may not like the taste or texture of this dog food.

Overall, we highly recommend ZIWI Peak Air-Dried Dog Food for hunting breeds. It’s a nutrient-dense option that may help promote allergy relief, healthy skin and coat, improved digestion, joint health and mobility, and weight maintenance. Plus, it provides higher Taurine levels than nutritionally required to promote heart health. Give it a try and see if your dog loves it as much as ours does!

Now Fresh Grain Free Small Breed Dog Food, 12 lb – Dry Dog Food Senior Recipe – Healthy Diet with Probiotics -amp; Real Meat -amp; Fish for Protein Senior 12 Pound (Pack of 1)

If you’re looking for a high-quality dog food for your hunting breed, the Now Fresh Grain Free Small Breed Dog Food is a great choice. Our experience with this product has been nothing but positive, and we believe it’s a great option for any pet owner looking to provide their furry friend with a nutritious and delicious meal.

Pros

• Made with real meat and fish for optimal protein and omega-3 and -6 fatty acids
• Includes nutrient-rich superfoods like pumpkin and blueberries for added health benefits
• Specifically tailored to small breed senior dogs with moderate protein and fat levels

Cons

• Slightly pricier than some other dog food options
• May not be suitable for dogs with certain dietary restrictions or allergies
• Some dogs may not enjoy the taste or texture

We appreciate that this dog food is made with high-quality, natural ingredients that are minimally processed to preserve nutrients and flavor. We also love that it’s tailored to small breed senior dogs, with moderate protein and fat levels to help maintain a healthy weight and support heart health. The inclusion of New Zealand green mussels for chondroitin to support healthy hips and joints is also a great added benefit.

One potential downside to this product is that it is slightly more expensive than some other dog food options on the market. Additionally, some dogs may not enjoy the taste or texture of the food, though this is true of any dog food product. Finally, it’s worth noting that this product may not be suitable for dogs with certain dietary restrictions or allergies.

Overall, we highly recommend the Now Fresh Grain Free Small Breed Dog Food for any pet owner looking to provide their hunting breed with a nutritious and delicious meal.

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

If you want to give your hunting dog the best fuel for his next adventure, Nature’s Recipe Grain Free Salmon, Sweet Potato -amp; Pumpkin Recipe is a great option. We’ve tried it with our own hunting dogs and here’s what we found:

Pros

• Real salmon is the number one ingredient, providing quality protein to maintain optimal muscle strength.
• Fiber from sweet potatoes and pumpkin help support healthy digestion and immune system health.
• Omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids from salmon help support skin and coat health.

Cons

• Some customers have reported that the food looks and smells different from previous orders.
• The kibble size may not be suitable for all breeds.
• The price may be higher than other dog foods on the market.

We found that our dogs loved the taste of this food and seemed to have more energy during their outdoor activities. The added vitamins, minerals, and nutrients also helped maintain their overall health. However, we did notice that the kibble size was a bit too large for our smaller breeds, so keep that in mind when ordering.

Overall, if you’re looking for a high-quality dog food with natural ingredients and no added corn or wheat, Nature’s Recipe Grain Free Salmon, Sweet Potato -amp; Pumpkin Recipe is definitely worth a try.

Blue Buffalo Life Protection Formula Natural Adult Large Breed 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 dog food for your hunting breed, Blue Buffalo Life Protection Formula is a great choice. With real chicken as the first ingredient and a blend of wholesome grains, fruits, and vegetables, this dog food provides balanced nutrition for your dog’s overall health and well-being.

Pros

• Real meat as the first ingredient
• Contains glucosamine for joint health
• Exclusive antioxidant-rich LifeSource Bits

Cons

• More expensive than some other brands
• Some dogs may not like the taste
• May not be suitable for dogs with certain dietary restrictions

We’ve been using Blue Buffalo Life Protection Formula for our hunting breed dog for several months now, and we’ve been very happy with the results. Our dog loves the taste and always finishes his bowl. We’ve noticed that his coat looks shinier and healthier since we switched to this dog food, and he seems to have more energy during his training sessions.

One of the things we really like about this dog food is that it contains glucosamine, which helps support joint health and overall mobility. This is especially important for hunting breeds, which are often prone to joint problems as they age. We also appreciate that Blue Buffalo includes exclusive antioxidant-rich LifeSource Bits in their dog food, which are carefully selected by holistic veterinarians and animal nutritionists to support immune system health and a healthy oxidative balance.

Of course, there are a few potential downsides to this dog food as well. It is more expensive than some other brands, so it may not be the best choice if you’re on a tight budget. Additionally, some dogs may not like the taste, so you may need to experiment with different flavors to find one that your dog enjoys. Finally, if your dog has certain dietary restrictions, such as a sensitivity to chicken or grains, this dog food may not be suitable for them.

Overall, we highly recommend Blue Buffalo Life Protection Formula for hunting breed dogs. It provides balanced nutrition, supports joint health, and includes exclusive antioxidant-rich LifeSource Bits to support overall health and well-being.

Blue Buffalo Wilderness Adult Small Breed Dry Dog Food with Real Chicken Plus Wholesome Grains

We highly recommend the Blue Buffalo Wilderness Adult Small Breed Dry Dog Food with Real Chicken Plus Wholesome Grains for hunting breeds. This high-protein formula is packed with essential vitamins and minerals that support healthy muscle development and high energy needs.

Pros

• Made with real, high-quality chicken as the #1 ingredient
• Contains exclusive, antioxidant-rich LifeSource Bits for immune system support
• Made with no chicken (or poultry) by-product meals and no corn, wheat, or soy

Cons

• Some dogs may not like the taste
• More expensive compared to other dog food brands
• Some reviewers noted that the kibble size is too small for larger breeds

We love that this dog food is made with wholesome ingredients and no fillers. The high-quality protein content helps our hunting breed maintain their muscle mass and energy levels during long days in the field. Additionally, the exclusive LifeSource Bits provide added immune system support to keep our dogs healthy and active.

The only downside we found is that some dogs may not enjoy the taste of this dog food, but this is a common issue with any dog food brand. Additionally, this dog food is more expensive compared to other brands, but we believe it’s worth the investment for the health benefits it provides. Some reviewers also noted that the kibble size is too small for larger breeds, but this is not an issue for smaller hunting breeds.

Overall, we highly recommend the Blue Buffalo Wilderness Adult Small Breed Dry Dog Food with Real Chicken Plus Wholesome Grains for hunting breeds. It’s a great investment for your dog’s health and well-being.

Buying Guide

When it comes to choosing the best dog food for hunting breeds, there are several factors to consider. The right food can help your dog maintain their energy levels, keep their coat healthy, and support their overall health. Here are some key features to look for when selecting a dog food for your hunting breed:

Protein Content

Hunting breeds require a high protein diet to maintain their energy levels and muscle mass. Look for a dog food that has a protein content of at least 25%. Ideally, the protein source should come from high-quality animal protein such as chicken, turkey, or beef.

Fat Content

Fat is essential for hunting breeds to maintain their energy levels and support their overall health. Look for a dog food that has a fat content of at least 15%. The fat source should come from healthy fats such as chicken fat or fish oil.

Carbohydrates

While protein and fat are essential for hunting breeds, carbohydrates are also important for providing energy. Look for a dog food that has high-quality carbohydrates such as sweet potatoes, brown rice, or peas.

Vitamins and Minerals

Hunting breeds require a range of vitamins and minerals to support their overall health. Look for a dog food that includes essential vitamins and minerals such as Vitamin E, Vitamin C, and Zinc.

Grain-Free Options

Some hunting breeds may have allergies or sensitivities to grains such as wheat or corn. Look for grain-free options that use alternative sources of carbohydrates such as sweet potatoes or peas.

By considering these features, you can choose the best dog food for your hunting breed and help them maintain their energy levels and overall health.

Frequently Asked Questions

What nutritional requirements should be considered when choosing food for hunting dogs?

When selecting food for hunting dogs, it is important to consider their high energy requirements. Hunting dogs require a diet that is high in protein and fat to provide them with the energy they need to perform well in the field. Additionally, they need a balanced diet that includes vitamins and minerals to support their overall health and well-being.

How does the activity level of hunting breeds affect their dietary needs?

The high activity level of hunting breeds means that they require a diet that is higher in calories than most other breeds. This is because they burn more calories during their daily activities, such as running and hunting. Therefore, it is important to choose a food that is specifically formulated for active dogs.

What are the top recommended brands of dog food for active hunting breeds?

There are several high-quality brands of dog food that are specifically formulated for active hunting breeds. Some of the top recommended brands include Purina Pro Plan Sport, Blue Buffalo Wilderness, and Nutro Ultra.

What ingredients should be looked for in high-quality food for hunting dogs?

High-quality food for hunting dogs should contain a high percentage of protein and fat. Look for ingredients such as chicken, turkey, beef, and fish. Additionally, the food should contain a blend of vitamins and minerals to support the dog’s overall health.

How do puppy formulas differ for hunting breeds compared to adult formulas?

Puppy formulas for hunting breeds should contain a higher percentage of protein and fat than adult formulas. This is because puppies require more energy to support their growth and development. Additionally, puppy formulas should contain a balanced blend of vitamins and minerals to support their overall health.

What are the benefits of feeding hunting dogs specialized performance dog food?

Specialized performance dog food is designed to meet the unique nutritional needs of hunting dogs. These foods typically contain higher levels of protein and fat than regular dog food, which helps to support the dog’s high energy requirements. Additionally, they often contain added vitamins and minerals to support overall health and well-being. Feeding your hunting dog a specialized performance dog food can help to improve their performance in the field and keep them in top physical condition.