Best Dog Food for Hunting Hounds: Top Picks for Optimal Nutrition

Hunting hounds need a specialized diet to maintain their energy levels and physical endurance, especially during hunting season. The right dog food can enhance their performance, while also keeping them healthy and happy. In this article, we will guide you through the best dog food for hunting hounds.

When it comes to dog food for hunting hounds, there are several factors to consider. First and foremost, the food should be high in protein to support muscle growth and maintenance. Hunting hounds also need a good amount of fat to fuel their high energy levels. Additionally, the food should be easily digestible to avoid any digestive issues during hunting trips.

Another important factor to consider is the type of food. Dry kibble is the most common type of dog food, but wet food and freeze-dried food are also available. Each type has its own benefits and drawbacks, so it’s important to choose the one that best suits your hound’s needs.

When selecting the best dog food for hunting hounds, it’s crucial to pay attention to the ingredients list. Avoid foods that contain fillers, artificial preservatives, and by-products. Look for foods that use high-quality sources of protein, such as chicken, beef, or fish, and include healthy fruits and vegetables.

In this article, we will review and compare some of the best dog food options for hunting hounds, taking into account their nutritional value, digestibility, and ingredient quality. By the end of this article, you’ll have a better understanding of what to look for in dog food for hunting hounds and which brands are worth considering.

Best Dog Food for Hunting Hounds

As avid hunters and dog lovers, we understand the importance of providing our hunting hounds with the best nutrition possible. Hunting dogs require a diet that is high in protein, fat, and calories to maintain their energy levels during long days in the field. With so many options available, it can be overwhelming to choose the right dog food for your hunting companion. That’s why we’ve compiled a list of the best dog food for hunting hounds to help you make an informed decision. Our selection includes options that are high in protein, made with quality ingredients, and designed to meet the unique nutritional needs of hunting dogs.

Hunters Special Performance Plus Dog Food 26/18

If you’re looking for dog food specifically for your hunting hound, then Hunters Special Performance Plus Dog Food 26/18 may be the right choice for you.

Pros

• Made with high-quality protein in family-owned US manufacturing facilities
• Enhanced with prebiotics to help support healthy digestion
• Omega 3 -amp; Omega 6 fatty acids help support healthy skin -amp; shiny coat

Cons

• Some dogs may not like the taste
• May not be suitable for dogs with certain dietary restrictions
• A bit pricey compared to other options

We recently tried this dog food on our hunting hound, and we were pleased with the results. The high-quality protein helped our dog maintain his energy levels throughout the day, and the added prebiotics helped with his digestion. We also noticed an improvement in his coat’s health and shine, thanks to the Omega 3 -amp; Omega 6 fatty acids.

However, we did notice that our dog was a bit picky with the taste, and it may not be suitable for dogs with certain dietary restrictions. Additionally, the price point is a bit higher compared to other options on the market.

Overall, if you’re looking for a dog food that is focused on nutrition for active adults, including hunting hounds, Hunters Special Performance Plus Dog Food 26/18 may be worth considering.

Outward Hound Nina Ottosson Dog Hide N’ Slide Dog Puzzle Interactive Treat Puzzle Dog Enrichment Dog Toy, Level 2 Intermediate, Purple, Composite Dog Hide-n-slide (Purple)

If you’re looking for an interactive dog toy that can keep your hunting hound entertained and mentally stimulated, the Outward Hound Nina Ottosson Dog Hide N’ Slide Dog Puzzle is definitely worth considering.

Pros

• This level 2 intermediate dog puzzle is a fun hide-and-seek challenge that requires your pup to learn how combined actions lead to a tasty reward.
• The Dog Hide N’ Slide is an interactive treat puzzle game that works your dog’s mind while reducing boredom and destructive behavior.
• Made with a non-slip base and a unique plastic and wood composite, the Dog Hide N’ Slide is a game that is built to last for hours and hours of fun!

Cons

• The puzzle may not be challenging enough for dogs who have already mastered level 2 puzzles.
• The plastic parts of the puzzle may not be as durable as the composite wood material.
• The puzzle may not be suitable for dogs who are aggressive chewers.

We recently tried out the Outward Hound Nina Ottosson Dog Hide N’ Slide Dog Puzzle with our hunting hound, and we were impressed with how engaging and entertaining it was for our pup. The puzzle has a total of 14 treat compartments that can be filled with snacks or kibble, and it comes with two types of hiding spots: under the swiveling flippers and in the hollow sliding blocks.

Our dog had a lot of fun trying to figure out how to slide the blocks back and forth to release the treats into the flipper compartment. We also appreciated that the puzzle is made from food safe materials that are BPA, PVC, and phthalate-free, so we felt safe playing with our dog over and over again.

One thing to keep in mind is that the puzzle may not be challenging enough for dogs who have already mastered level 2 puzzles. Additionally, the plastic parts of the puzzle may not be as durable as the composite wood material, so it may not be suitable for dogs who are aggressive chewers.

Overall, we would highly recommend the Outward Hound Nina Ottosson Dog Hide N’ Slide Dog Puzzle for hunting hounds who need mental stimulation and entertainment.

Hunters Special Hi Protein Dog Food 27/15, 40 lbs.

If you’re looking for a dog food that’s specifically formulated for hunting hounds, Hunters Special Hi Protein Dog Food might be the perfect choice for you.

Pros

• Made with high-quality protein in family-owned US manufacturing facilities
• Enhanced with prebiotics to help support healthy digestion
• Optimized blend of soluble and insoluble fibers helps support healthy digestion

Cons

• Can be a bit pricey compared to other dog food brands
• Some dogs may not like the taste of the chicken flavor
• The kibble size may be too big for smaller breeds

We’ve been using Hunters Special Hi Protein Dog Food for our hunting hound for a few months now and we have noticed a significant improvement in his overall health and energy levels. The high-quality protein source and optimized blend of fibers have helped support his healthy digestion, and his coat is looking shiny and healthy.

One thing to keep in mind is that this dog food can be a bit pricey compared to other brands, but we believe that the quality of the ingredients justifies the cost. Additionally, some dogs may not like the taste of the chicken flavor, so it’s important to keep an eye on your dog’s reaction when you first introduce this food.

We also noticed that the kibble size is quite large, which may be a bit difficult for smaller breeds to chew and digest. However, this hasn’t been an issue for our hunting hound.

Overall, we highly recommend Hunters Special Hi Protein Dog Food for hunting hounds. It’s a high-quality, nutritious option that can help support your dog’s overall health and energy levels.

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 fillers and artificial ingredients, then Stella -amp; Chewy’s Wild Red Raw Coated kibble is definitely worth a look.

Pros

• Love Is Raw: Our Raw Coated dog food offers the protein-rich taste dogs crave with the nutrition they deserve; each bite is coated in delicious and nutritious freeze-dried raw meat.
• Feed Your Dog’s Wild Side! Our Ocean Recipe 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: Feeding your pet a diet similar to what their ancestors enjoyed in the wild helps your pet thrive; 86% of the recipe’s protein comes from animal muscle meat, cartilage and organ meat.

Cons

• The price for this food has doubled since the last time we tried our dogs on it.
• Item expires in the next 2 months. Short expiry not stated in product listing.
• My Dog hates it. We got 2 bags and you cannot return an open bag.

We’ve been using Stella -amp; Chewy’s Wild Red Raw Coated kibble for several months now, and we’re really impressed with the quality of this product. The kibble is coated in freeze-dried raw meat, which gives it a rich, meaty flavor that our dogs absolutely love. We also appreciate that this food is made with whole prey ingredients, which means that it contains a mix of muscle meat, cartilage, and organ meat that mimics the diet of wild dogs.

Another great thing about this food is that it’s completely free from fillers, legumes, artificial colors, flavor or preservatives. That means that our dogs are getting a high-protein, grain-free meal that’s easy for them to digest. We’ve also noticed that their coats are looking shinier and healthier since we switched to this food, thanks to the omega fatty acids from chia and pumpkin seeds and salmon oil that provide skin and coat support.

However, we have noticed that the price of this food has gone up significantly since we first started using it, which is a bit disappointing. Additionally, we were surprised to find that the item we received was set to expire in just a couple of months, which was not stated in the product listing. Finally, one of our dogs simply doesn’t seem to like the taste of this food, so it may not be the best choice for picky eaters.

Overall, we would recommend Stella -amp; Chewy’s Wild Red Raw Coated kibble to anyone looking for a high-quality dog food that’s packed with protein and free from fillers and artificial ingredients. Just be aware that it can be a bit pricey and may not be the best choice for dogs who are picky eaters.

ZIWI Peak Air-Dried Dog Food – Mackerel -amp; Lamb

If you’re looking for a high-quality dog food that’s perfect for your hunting hound, ZIWI Peak Air-Dried Dog Food – Mackerel -amp; Lamb is an excellent choice.

Pros

• The dog food features authentic whole-prey ratios, with 96% wild-caught Mackerel and free-range Lamb, Organs, Bone, and New Zealand Green Mussels.
• The food is grain-free and low carb, making it ideal for food-sensitive dogs.
• ZIWI Peak Air-Dried Dog Food is ethically sourced, with only 100% free-range, grass-fed, grass-finished meats, and wild-caught seafoods from New Zealand farms and pristine oceans.

Cons

• The food is expensive compared to other dog foods on the market.
• The smell of the dog food can be strong, which may be unpleasant for some dog owners.
• Some dogs may not like the taste of the food, so it may take some time to adjust to it.

We’ve been using ZIWI Peak Air-Dried Dog Food – Mackerel -amp; Lamb for a while now, and we’re impressed with the quality of the product. The food is made with only the best natural ingredients, and the whole-prey ratios ensure that our dogs are getting all the nutrients they need.

One of the things we appreciate about this dog food is that it’s grain-free and low carb. This makes it an excellent choice for dogs with food sensitivities or those who need to lose weight. We’ve noticed that our dogs have more energy and are healthier overall since we switched to this food.

Another thing we like about ZIWI Peak Air-Dried Dog Food is that it’s ethically sourced. The company only uses free-range, grass-fed, grass-finished meats and wild-caught seafood from New Zealand farms and oceans. This means that we can feel good about what we’re feeding our dogs.

While this dog food is more expensive than some other brands, we believe that it’s worth the investment. The quality of the food is top-notch, and we’ve seen a noticeable improvement in our dogs’ health since we started using it. If you’re looking for a high-quality dog food for your hunting hound, we highly recommend ZIWI Peak Air-Dried Dog Food – Mackerel -amp; Lamb.

Stella -amp; Chewy’s Wild Red Dry Dog Food Raw Blend High Protein Grain -amp; Legume Free Red Meat Recipe, 3.5 lb. Bag

If you’re looking for a high-quality dog food that is packed with responsibly sourced, animal-based protein, then Stella -amp; Chewy’s Wild Red Dry Dog Food Raw Blend is definitely worth considering.

Pros

• Love Is Raw: This raw blend dog food offers the protein-rich taste dogs crave with the nutrition they deserve.
• Feed Your Dog’s Wild Side: The Red Meat Recipe includes six poultry-free animal protein sources: beef, pork, lamb, bison, venison and goat.
• Whole Prey Ingredients: 90% of the recipe’s protein comes from animal muscle meat, organ meat and cartilage.

Cons

• Expensive: This dog food is on the pricier side, so it may not be the best choice for those on a tight budget.
• Raw Chunks: While the freeze-dried raw chunks are a great addition, there aren’t as many as some dogs may prefer.
• Strong Smell: Some owners have reported that this dog food has a strong smell that may not be pleasant to all.

We have been using Stella -amp; Chewy’s Wild Red Dry Dog Food Raw Blend for a few months now and have been very pleased with the results. Our hunting hounds have been thriving on this protein-rich formula, and we’ve noticed an improvement in their overall health and wellbeing.

One of the things we love about this dog food is that it is made with whole prey ingredients, which means that it closely mimics the diet that dogs would have eaten in the wild. This helps to ensure that our dogs are getting the nutrition they need to thrive.

Another great thing about this dog food is that it is grain-free, which makes it easy for dogs of all life stages to digest. We’ve noticed that our dogs have had less digestive issues since we switched to this formula.

Overall, we highly recommend Stella -amp; Chewy’s Wild Red Dry Dog Food Raw Blend to anyone looking for a high-quality, protein-rich dog food that is made with responsibly sourced ingredients. While it may be a bit pricey, we believe that the benefits are well worth the cost.

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

If you’re looking for a nutritious dog food that can support your dog’s hunting needs, Nature’s Recipe Grain Free Salmon, Sweet Potato -amp; Pumpkin Recipe is a great option to consider.

Pros

• Real salmon is the number one ingredient
• Nutrient-dense carbohydrate sources like sweet potato and pumpkin instead of added corn or wheat
• Contains added vitamins, minerals, and nutrients for maintenance of adult dogs

Cons

• May not be suitable for dogs with allergies to fish or certain vegetables
• Some customers have reported that the smell and color of the food differs from previous purchases
• Expensive compared to other dog food brands

We recently tried this dog food with our hunting hound and were impressed with the quality of the ingredients. The real salmon provided a great source of protein to help maintain our dog’s optimal muscle strength during long hunting trips. The added fiber from sweet potatoes and pumpkin also helped support our dog’s healthy digestion, which is important for a hunting hound who needs to maintain their energy levels.

We were also pleased to see that this dog food contains omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids from salmon to help support our dog’s skin and coat health, which can be easily damaged during outdoor adventures. The added antioxidants zinc and vitamin E also helped support our dog’s immune system, which is important for their overall health and well-being.

However, we did notice that this dog food may not be suitable for dogs with allergies to fish or certain vegetables. We also experienced a difference in smell and color compared to previous purchases, which some other customers have also reported. Additionally, this dog food is more expensive compared to other brands, which may not be suitable for all budgets.

Overall, we would recommend Nature’s Recipe Grain Free Salmon, Sweet Potato -amp; Pumpkin Recipe to other hunting hound owners who are looking for a high-quality dog food that can support their dog’s needs.

Hill’s Science Diet Dry Dog Food, Adult, Chicken -amp; Barley Recipe, 5 lb. Bag

If you’re looking for a high-quality, nutritious dog food for your hunting hound, Hill’s Science Diet Adult dry dog food is a great option. We highly recommend this product for its natural ingredients, high-quality protein, and fiber content that promotes healthy digestion.

Pros

• Uses high-quality, easy-to-digest ingredients to fuel the specific energy needs of your full-grown dog.
• Provides a precise balance of omega-6 and vitamin E to maintain a beautiful skin and a healthy coat.
• Supports lean muscle growth and maintenance in your adult dog with a premium source of high-quality protein.

Cons

• Some dogs may not like the taste of the food.
• The product may cause some digestive issues in dogs with sensitive stomachs.
• The kibble size may be too large for smaller dogs.

Hill’s Science Diet Adult dry dog food is made with natural ingredients that provide the right balance of nutrients to help your grown-up dog live a happy, healthy life. The high-quality protein source helps maintain lean muscles, while natural fibers promote healthy digestion. Additionally, the product is #1 Veterinarian Recommended and formulated for a great taste that adult dogs love.

One of the best things about this product is that it’s made with natural ingredients and never contains artificial colors, flavors, preservatives, or chicken by-product meal. This ensures that your dog is getting the best possible nutrition without any unnecessary additives.

Another great feature of Hill’s Science Diet Adult dry dog food is that it’s part of the Hill’s Food, Shelter -amp; Love program, which donates food to shelters across the country. With every purchase of Science Diet, you help feed over 100,000 homeless pets every day, 365 days a year.

In conclusion, if you’re looking for a high-quality dog food for your hunting hound, Hill’s Science Diet Adult dry dog food is an excellent choice. Its natural ingredients, high-quality protein, and fiber content make it a nutritious and delicious option for your furry friend.

Best Breed Dr. Gary’s German Dog Diet

If you’re looking for a dog food that is specifically formulated for hunting hounds, we highly recommend Best Breed Dr. Gary’s German Dog Diet.

Pros

• VETERINARIAN DEVELOPED HOLISTIC NUTRITION – This dog food is developed by a veterinarian who was inspired to develop a truly healthful, holistic line of dog and cat foods after repeatedly seeing health issues in his clinic that he believed were caused by low-quality nutrition.
• SPECIALLY FORMULATED FOR DIGESTIVE HEALTH – This dog food has a synergistic blend of soluble and insoluble fiber that does an excellent job of keeping the large breed dog’s sensitive digestive system active and healthy. It is also enriched with taurine.
• NATURAL INGREDIENTS (enhanced with vitamins and minerals) COOKED TO PERFECTION – Made in Ohio, Best Breed formulas are hand-crafted using a unique, slow-cooking process to ensure easy digestion and optimum nutrient absorption.

Cons

• Not suitable for small breeds
• Expensive
• Some dogs may not like the taste

We’ve been using Best Breed Dr. Gary’s German Dog Diet for our hunting hounds for several months now and we’re extremely pleased with the results. Our dogs have had no digestive issues and their coats look shinier and healthier. The slow-cooking process used in making this dog food ensures that the nutrients are easily absorbed by the dogs’ bodies.

We also appreciate that this dog food is made with natural ingredients and is free from corn, wheat, or by-product meals. It’s also formulated for all life stages, from puppy to senior, which makes it a convenient option for us.

One downside of this dog food is that it’s not suitable for small breeds. It’s also quite expensive compared to other dog foods on the market. Some dogs may not like the taste of this dog food, but we haven’t had any issues with our hounds.

Overall, if you’re looking for a high-quality dog food that is specifically formulated for hunting hounds, we highly recommend Best Breed Dr. Gary’s German Dog Diet.

Outward Hound Fun Feeder Slo Bowl

If you are looking for a slow feeder dog bowl that can help your furry friend eat at a healthy pace, then the Outward Hound Fun Feeder Slo Bowl is a great option.

Pros

• The ridges and mazes in the bowl slow down eating up to 10x, which helps improve digestion, reduce bloating, regurgitation, and canine obesity.
• The non-slip base and food-safe materials keep the bowl in place and prevent sliding and food spillage.
• The bowl is available in multiple sizes and ridge patterns, making it perfect for dry, wet, or raw food diets.

Cons

• The bowl can be a bit challenging to clean, especially if you don’t have a dishwasher.
• The medium/mini size holds only 2 cups of dry kibble, which may not be enough for some hunting hounds.
• The bowl may not be suitable for dogs with flat faces, as the ridges and mazes may make it difficult for them to reach the food.

We have been using the Outward Hound Fun Feeder Slo Bowl for our hunting hound for a while now, and we are satisfied with its performance. The bowl’s ridges and mazes make mealtime more engaging and challenging for our dog, which keeps him entertained and mentally stimulated. The slow feeder design has also helped reduce his eating speed, which has improved his digestion and reduced bloating. The non-slip base keeps the bowl in place, even when our dog gets excited and starts pawing at it. However, we have noticed that the bowl can be a bit challenging to clean, especially if we don’t have a dishwasher. We also wish that the medium/mini size held more than 2 cups of dry kibble, as our dog can eat quite a bit. Overall, we would recommend the Outward Hound Fun Feeder Slo Bowl to anyone looking for a slow feeder dog bowl that can help their furry friend eat at a healthy pace.

Buying Guide

When it comes to choosing the best dog food for hunting hounds, there are a few key features to consider. We recommend looking for products that are high in protein, as this will help to support your dog’s muscle development and overall health. Additionally, it’s important to choose a food that is rich in essential vitamins and minerals, including calcium, iron, and zinc.

Another important consideration when choosing a dog food for hunting hounds is the quality of the ingredients. We recommend looking for products that use high-quality, natural ingredients, and avoiding those that contain artificial preservatives or additives. Additionally, it’s important to choose a food that is appropriate for your dog’s age and activity level, as this will help to ensure that they are getting the right balance of nutrients.

When shopping for dog food, it’s also a good idea to read the label carefully and look for information on the product’s nutritional content. Many dog foods will include a breakdown of the protein, fat, and carbohydrate content, as well as information on the ingredients used. This can help you to make an informed decision about which product is right for your dog.

Finally, it’s important to choose a dog food that is both palatable and digestible. Look for products that are made with high-quality ingredients and that have been formulated to be easy on your dog’s digestive system. Additionally, consider trying out a few different products to see which one your dog prefers, as this will help to ensure that they are getting the nutrients they need to stay healthy and active.

Frequently Asked Questions

What nutritional requirements should we consider for our hunting hound’s diet?

Hunting hounds require a diet that is high in protein and fat to support their active lifestyle. Look for dog food that contains at least 30% protein and 20% fat. Additionally, make sure the food contains essential vitamins and minerals such as calcium, phosphorus, and zinc to support bone and joint health.

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

The more active your hunting hound is, the more calories they will need to consume to maintain their energy levels. It’s important to adjust their food intake accordingly. A high-quality dog food that is specifically formulated for active dogs can help ensure they are getting the necessary nutrients to support their lifestyle.

What are the top-rated dog food brands recommended for high-energy hunting breeds?

Some of the top-rated dog food brands for high-energy hunting breeds include Purina Pro Plan Sport, Blue Buffalo Wilderness, and Nutro Ultra. These brands offer a range of options that are high in protein and fat and contain essential nutrients to support your dog’s health.

Are there specific ingredients to look for when choosing food for my bear hound?

When choosing food for your bear hound, look for dog food that contains a high percentage of animal-based protein such as chicken, beef, or fish. Additionally, consider a food that contains glucosamine and chondroitin to support joint health and mobility.

How can we ensure our waterfowl dog is getting the proper nutrition during hunting season?

During hunting season, your waterfowl dog will need additional calories to maintain their energy levels. Consider feeding them a food that is high in fat and protein and contains essential vitamins and minerals. Additionally, make sure they have access to clean water at all times.

What do experienced hunters and dog breeders recommend feeding gundogs for optimal performance?

Experienced hunters and dog breeders recommend feeding gundogs a high-quality dog food that is specifically formulated for active dogs. Look for a food that is high in protein and fat and contains essential vitamins and minerals. Additionally, consider feeding your gundog a food that contains antioxidants to support their immune system.