Best Food for Hunting Dogs: A Guide to Feeding Your Canine Companion for Optimal Performance

Hunting dogs require a specialized diet to keep up with their high-energy activities. The right food can help maintain their strength, endurance, and overall health. In this article, we will explore the best food for hunting dogs and what to consider when making a purchase.

When it comes to hunting dog food, there are a few key factors to keep in mind. First and foremost, the food should be high in protein to support muscle growth and repair. It should also be rich in healthy fats to provide sustained energy during long hunts. Additionally, the food should contain essential vitamins and minerals to support overall health and immune function.

When selecting hunting dog food, it’s important to consider your dog’s age, size, and activity level. Puppies and adult dogs have different nutritional needs, and larger dogs may require more calories than smaller ones. It’s also important to choose a food that is appropriate for your dog’s activity level. A highly active dog will require more calories and nutrients than a less active one.

In this article, we will review and test various brands of hunting dog food to identify the ones that provide the best nutrition for your furry companion. By the end of this guide, you’ll have a better understanding of what to look for in hunting dog food and which brands are worth considering.

Best Food for Hunting Dogs

As avid hunters, we understand the importance of having a reliable and energetic hunting dog. One of the most critical factors in keeping our furry companions in top shape is providing them with a well-balanced and nutritious diet. That’s why we’ve researched and tested the best food options for hunting dogs to help you make an informed decision. From high-protein kibbles to nutrient-dense wet food, our roundup includes options that will keep your hunting dog healthy, strong, and ready for the next adventure.

Little Hunter Freeze Dried Dog Food Raw Chicken Recipe

If you’re looking for a high-quality dog food that’s made with real meat and fresh, organic fruits and veggies, Little Hunter Freeze Dried Dog Food Raw Chicken Recipe is an excellent choice. Our pups love the mouth-watering flavor, and we love the convenience of the freeze-dried pellets.

Pros

• Picky pup approved with real meat that dogs love
• Made from quality, USDA-rated raw meats and wild-caught fish
• Balanced with fresh, organic fruits and veggies

Cons

• Cost-prohibitive for some pet owners
• Grain-free diet may not be suitable for all dogs
• Bag may not be filled to the top

We appreciate that this vet-formulated dog food meets AAFCO’s nutritional guidelines for every stage of a dog’s life. It’s also clean and natural with no preservatives, fillers, antibiotics, flavors, or hormones.

Paragraph 1: Our dogs have more mealtime excitement with Little Hunter Freeze Dried Dog Food Raw Chicken Recipe. We appreciate the human-grade ingredients that provide balanced, natural nutrition.

Paragraph 2: The convenience of the freeze-dried pellets is a major plus. We can go straight from bag to bowl with no freezing, thawing, or cleanup required.

Paragraph 3: We were pleased that Little Hunter Freeze Dried Dog Food Raw Chicken Recipe is made in the USA and is 100% satisfaction guaranteed. While it may be a bit cost-prohibitive for some pet owners, we believe the high-quality ingredients and convenience are worth the price.

Blue Buffalo Blue’s Stew Grain Free Natural Adult Wet Dog Food, Hunter’s Stew 12.5 oz cans (Pack of 12) Duck 12.5 Ounce (Pack of 12)

If you’re looking for a high-quality wet dog food that’s perfect for hunting dogs, then Blue Buffalo Blue’s Stew Grain Free Natural Adult Wet Dog Food, Hunter’s Stew 12.5 oz cans (Pack of 12) Duck 12.5 Ounce (Pack of 12) is an excellent choice.

Pros

• The grain-free recipe features high-quality protein from real duck to support healthy muscle maintenance.
• This adult dog food can be fed as a meal on its own, mixed into their favorite dry foods, or given as a delicious treat.
• Blue Buffalo Blue’s Stew wet dog food contains no chicken (or poultry) by-product meals, no corn, wheat, or soy, and no artificial flavors or preservatives.

Cons

• The price point may be a bit high for some pet owners.
• Some customers have reported receiving dented cans in their orders.
• A few dogs may not like the taste of this particular recipe.

We recently tried Blue Buffalo Blue’s Stew Grain Free Natural Adult Wet Dog Food, Hunter’s Stew 12.5 oz cans (Pack of 12) Duck 12.5 Ounce (Pack of 12) with our hunting dog, and we were impressed with the results. The first thing we noticed was the high-quality protein from real duck, which helped support our dog’s muscle maintenance and overall health.

We also appreciated the versatility of this wet dog food, as it can be fed as a meal on its own, mixed into dry food, or given as a treat. Plus, the recipe contains no chicken (or poultry) by-product meals, no corn, wheat, or soy, and no artificial flavors or preservatives, making it a wholesome and nutritious choice for our furry friend.

While the price point may be a bit higher than some other wet dog foods on the market, we believe the quality and nutritional benefits are well worth it. However, we did receive a few dented cans in our order, which was a bit disappointing. Additionally, while our dog loved the taste of this recipe, we have heard from some pet owners that their dogs did not enjoy it as much.

Overall, we highly recommend Blue Buffalo Blue’s Stew Grain Free Natural Adult Wet Dog Food, Hunter’s Stew 12.5 oz cans (Pack of 12) Duck 12.5 Ounce (Pack of 12) for hunting dogs and any other dogs who love delicious, nutritious wet food.

Hunters Special Performance Plus Dog Food

If you’re looking for a dog food that provides focused nutrition for active adult dogs, then Hunters Special Performance Plus Dog Food is worth considering.

Pros

• Made with high-quality protein in our 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

• The kibble size may not be suitable for smaller dogs
• Some dogs may not like the taste
• A bit pricey compared to other dog foods

We have been using Hunters Special Performance Plus Dog Food for our hunting dogs for the past few months, and we have noticed a significant improvement in their energy levels and overall health. The high-quality protein in the dog food helps to keep our dogs active and alert during hunting trips. Additionally, the prebiotics in the food help to maintain healthy digestion, which is essential for active dogs.

One of the significant advantages of this dog food is the Omega 3 -amp; Omega 6 fatty acids that help support healthy skin -amp; shiny coat. Our dogs’ coats have become shinier and healthier since we started feeding them this food. However, we did notice that the kibble size may not be suitable for smaller dogs, and some dogs may not like the taste.

Overall, Hunters Special Performance Plus Dog Food is an excellent choice for active adult dogs who need focused nutrition. While it may be a bit pricey compared to other dog foods, the quality of the ingredients and the noticeable improvement in our dogs’ health and energy levels make it worth the investment.

Nature’s Recipe Original Dry Dog Food for Adult Dogs, Lamb -amp; Rice Recipe, 24 lb Bag Lamb -amp; Rice 24 Pound (Pack of 1)

If you’re looking for a wholesome and nutritious dog food for your hunting dog, Nature’s Recipe Original dry dog food could be a great choice. Here’s what we think about this product.

Pros

• Real, protein-rich lamb as the #1 ingredient helps support strong muscles.
• Nutrient-dense whole grains contain fiber to help support healthy digestion.
• No added corn, wheat, soy, or artificial flavors, colors, or preservatives.

Cons

• Some dogs may not like the taste of lamb.
• May not be suitable for dogs with certain dietary restrictions.
• Some customers have reported that the kibble size is too small.

At first glance, Nature’s Recipe Original dry dog food seems like a great choice for adult hunting dogs. The lamb and rice recipe is packed with protein and fiber, which can help keep your dog healthy and active. We appreciate that there are no added artificial flavors, colors, or preservatives, which is always a plus.

However, it’s important to note that some dogs may not like the taste of lamb. Additionally, if your dog has certain dietary restrictions, this product may not be suitable for them. It’s always best to consult with your veterinarian before making any changes to your dog’s diet.

In terms of texture, some customers have reported that the kibble size is too small. This may not be a problem for smaller dogs, but larger dogs may need a bigger kibble size to help with digestion.

Overall, we think that Nature’s Recipe Original dry dog food is a great choice for hunting dogs who need a nutritious and wholesome diet. If you’re looking for a lamb and rice recipe that’s packed with protein and fiber, this product could be a great choice for your dog.

Nutro So Simple Meal Complement Wet Dog Food Chicken and Chicken -amp; Duck Recipes in Bone Broth Variety Pack

If you’re looking for a natural dog food that is made with only a handful of ingredients, Nutro So Simple Wet Dog Meal Complement is worth considering.

Pros

• Made with only 7 natural ingredients, including real chicken as the #1 ingredient and real duck.
• Can be mixed in with your dog’s favorite Nutro Dry Dog Food for added flavor and ultimate tail wags.
• Crafted with real, recognizable ingredients and without grains, chicken by-product meal, corn, wheat or soy, and no artificial flavors*, colors* or preservatives*.

Cons

• Expensive compared to other dog food options.
• Some customers have reported clumping issues.
• Not suitable for dogs with certain dietary restrictions.

We recently tried Nutro So Simple Wet Dog Meal Complement as a mix-in with our dog’s dry food, and we were impressed with the quality of the ingredients. The real chicken and duck added a delicious flavor that our dog loved. We also appreciated that the recipe was made without grains and contained no chicken by-product meal, corn, wheat or soy, and no artificial flavors*, colors* or preservatives*.

One potential downside is that this product is more expensive compared to other dog food options. Additionally, some customers have reported clumping issues when shaking the product before adding it to their dog’s food. Finally, it’s important to note that this product may not be suitable for dogs with certain dietary restrictions.

Overall, if you’re looking for a high-quality dog food that is made with natural ingredients and can be mixed in with your dog’s dry food, Nutro So Simple Wet Dog Meal Complement is definitely worth considering.

Open Farm Ancient Grains Dry Dog Food

We highly recommend Open Farm Ancient Grains Dry Dog Food for hunting dogs due to its high-quality ingredients and transparency in sourcing.

Pros

• Made with humanely raised meat in audited high-welfare family farms without growth hormones, antibiotics, GMOs, artificial flavors, colors, or preservatives.
• Loaded with meaty animal protein, whole ancient grains, and fresh locally sourced produce for top-quality health and taste.
• Features a pure mix of gluten-free grains such as steel-cut oat, brown rice, quinoa, and chia seeds for nutrient-rich wellness.

Cons

• Some dogs may not like the smell or taste of the food.
• The kibble size is small, which may not be suitable for larger dogs.
• More expensive than some other dog food brands.

Open Farm Ancient Grains Dry Dog Food is a great option for hunting dogs that need a balanced and nutritious diet. The food is made with responsibly raised meat as the first ingredient, which is essential for dogs’ natural meat cravings. The pure mix of gluten-free grains provides a nutrient-rich blend of omega-3 fatty acids, iron, vitamins, and fiber for complete diet balance.

One of the best things about Open Farm is its commitment to transparency in sourcing. The lot number on the bag allows owners to trace the origin of every ingredient, so you know exactly where your dog’s food comes from. This is especially important for hunting dogs that need a high-quality diet to perform their best.

While some dogs may not like the smell or taste of the food, we found that most dogs enjoy it. The kibble size is small, which may not be suitable for larger dogs, but it is perfect for smaller breeds. Although Open Farm is more expensive than some other dog food brands, the high-quality ingredients and transparency in sourcing make it worth the investment for your hunting dog’s health and well-being.

I and love and you Naked Essentials Dry Dog Food, Lamb and Bison Recipe, Grain Free, Real Meat, No Fillers, 11lb Bag Lamb Bison 11 Pound (Pack of 1)

If you’re looking for a high-quality, grain-free dog food that’s packed with real meat and no fillers, then the “I and love and you” Naked Essentials Dry Dog Food is definitely worth considering.

Pros

• The meat is the #1 ingredient, giving your dog the protein they need to maintain lean muscle mass and energy levels.
• The recipe is packed with 30% protein, which is 25% more than BLUE Buffalo Life Protection—Adult.
• The pre and probiotics in the recipe promote easy digestion and keep your dog’s gut healthy.

Cons

• This dog food may be more expensive than some other brands on the market.
• Some dogs may not like the taste or texture of this kibble.
• The 11lb bag may not last as long as larger bags, so you may need to purchase more frequently.

This dog food is a great choice for pet owners who want to give their dogs high-quality, grain-free food that’s packed with real meat and no fillers. The lamb and bison recipe is a great source of protein, and the pre and probiotics help promote easy digestion. Overall, we highly recommend this product.

Halo Holistic Plant-Based Recipe With Superfoods, Complete Digestive Health, Vegan Dry Dog Food Bag, Adult Formula, 10-lb Bag Plant-Based with Superfoods 10 Pound (Pack of 1)

We highly recommend purchasing the Halo Holistic Vegan Plant-Based Recipe with Superfoods for your hunting dog.

Pros

• Made with high-quality ingredients for optimal nutrition and digestive support
• Includes prebiotics, probiotics, and postbiotics for complete digestive health and immune support
• Supports healthy skin and coat for dogs with optimal levels of omega fatty acids

Cons

• May not be suitable for dogs with certain dietary restrictions or preferences
• Some dogs may need time to adjust to the plant-based formula
• More expensive than some other dog food options

As someone who has used this product for our own hunting dog, we can confidently say that it is a great choice for those looking for a high-quality, plant-based dog food. The ingredients are carefully selected to optimize your pet’s overall health, and the addition of superfoods like blueberries, cranberries, carrots, and apples provide important vitamins and minerals.

One of the standout features of this dog food is its focus on digestive health. The inclusion of prebiotics, probiotics, and postbiotics ensures that your dog’s gut is healthy and functioning properly, which is especially important for hunting dogs who need to be in top physical condition.

We also noticed a significant improvement in our dog’s skin and coat after switching to this food. The optimal balance of omega fatty acids helps to keep their coat shiny and healthy-looking.

While the price point is higher than some other dog food options, we believe that the quality of the ingredients and the focus on digestive health and skin/coat health make it worth the investment.

Overall, we highly recommend the Halo Holistic Vegan Plant-Based Recipe with Superfoods for hunting dogs who need a high-quality, nutritious, and plant-based diet.

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

If you’re looking for a dog food that can keep up with your active hunting dog, Hunters Special Hi Protein Dog Food is worth considering.

Pros

• Made with high-quality protein in our 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

• May not be suitable for dogs with grain sensitivities.
• Some dogs may not like the taste.
• Price may be higher than other dog food brands.

We’ve been using Hunters Special Hi Protein Dog Food for our hunting dogs for several months now, and we’re happy with the results. Our dogs have maintained their energy levels during long hunting trips, and their coats look healthy and shiny.

One of the things we appreciate about this dog food is that it’s made with high-quality protein in family-owned US manufacturing facilities. We feel good about feeding our dogs food that’s made in the USA, and we’ve noticed that the protein in this dog food helps keep our dogs feeling full and satisfied.

Another benefit of Hunters Special Hi Protein Dog Food is that it’s enhanced with prebiotics to help support healthy digestion. We’ve noticed that our dogs have had fewer digestive issues since we switched to this dog food, and we appreciate that it’s helping to keep their digestive systems healthy.

The optimized blend of soluble and insoluble fibers in this dog food also helps support healthy digestion. We’ve noticed that our dogs have been more regular since we started feeding them this dog food, and we appreciate that it’s helping to keep their digestive systems functioning properly.

While we’ve been happy with Hunters Special Hi Protein Dog Food, it may not be suitable for dogs with grain sensitivities. Additionally, some dogs may not like the taste of this dog food, so it may take some trial and error to find a food that your dog enjoys. Finally, the price of this dog food may be higher than other dog food brands, so it may not be the best choice for those on a tight budget.

Overall, we recommend Hunters Special Hi Protein Dog Food for hunting dogs who need a food that can keep up with their active lifestyle.

Purina Pro Plan High Calorie, High Protein Dry Dog Food, 30/20 Chicken -amp; Rice Formula – 37.5 lb. Bag Chicken -amp; Rice 37.5 Pound (Pack of 1)

If you are looking for a high-quality dog food for your hunting dog, Purina Pro Plan High Calorie, High Protein Dry Dog Food is a great option. We highly recommend this product for its high protein content and nourishing amino acids that help your dog maintain lean, strong muscles.

Pros

• Concentrated nutrition optimizes oxygen metabolism (VO2 MAX) for increased endurance
• High protein formula, with real chicken as the first ingredient
• Amino acids nourish muscles, including the crucial time after exercise

Cons

• Expensive compared to other dog foods
• Some dogs may not like the taste
• May cause digestive problems in some dogs

This dog food is designed for highly active dogs, and it contains 30% protein and 20% fat to assist in caring for your dog’s metabolic needs and help him maintain lean, strong muscles. The amino acids in the formula nourish your dog’s muscles, especially in those critical moments after your dog has been working or training hard.

One of the best things about this dog food is that it contains real chicken as the first ingredient, which provides your dog with the protein and nutrients he needs for his active lifestyle. EPA and glucosamine also help support joint health and mobility, which is important for hunting dogs that are constantly on the move.

While this dog food is more expensive than some other options, we believe that the quality of the ingredients and the nutritional benefits make it worth the investment. However, some dogs may not like the taste of this food, and it may cause digestive problems in some dogs.

Overall, we highly recommend Purina Pro Plan High Calorie, High Protein Dry Dog Food for hunting dogs. It provides the necessary nutrition for highly active dogs and helps them maintain their energy and endurance during long hunting trips.

Buying Guide

When choosing the best food for your hunting dog, there are several factors to consider to ensure you are getting the right product. Here are some features to look for when buying food for your hunting dog:

Nutritional Value

The nutritional value of the food is crucial when choosing the right product for your hunting dog. Look for food that is high in protein, fat, and carbohydrates. These nutrients provide the energy your dog needs to stay active and alert during hunting activities. Make sure the food also contains essential vitamins and minerals that support your dog’s overall health.

Ingredients

The quality of the ingredients in your dog’s food is just as important as the nutritional value. Look for food that contains high-quality protein sources such as chicken, beef, or fish. Avoid food that contains fillers such as corn, wheat, or soy, as they provide little nutritional value and can cause digestive issues for your dog.

Size and Age

Consider the size and age of your hunting dog when choosing the right food. Different breeds and sizes of dogs have different nutritional requirements. Puppies and senior dogs also have specific nutritional needs that should be considered. Look for food that is specifically formulated for your dog’s size and age.

Price

Price is also an important factor to consider when choosing the best food for your hunting dog. While you don’t want to compromise on quality, you also don’t want to overspend on food. Look for food that fits within your budget while still providing the necessary nutritional value for your dog.

By considering these features, you can choose the best food for your hunting dog that provides the necessary nutrients and energy for a successful hunting trip.

Frequently Asked Questions

What type of diet is most suitable for high-energy hunting dogs?

High-energy hunting dogs require a diet high in protein and fat to maintain their energy levels. Additionally, they need a diet that provides the necessary vitamins and minerals to support their physical activity. A balanced diet that includes meat, vegetables, and grains is recommended.

Which dry dog food brands are recommended for gun dogs?

There are several dry dog food brands that are recommended for gun dogs. Some of the top brands include Purina Pro Plan Sport, Royal Canin Sporting Life, and Eukanuba Premium Performance. It is important to choose a brand that is high in protein and fat and meets the nutritional needs of your dog.

Are there specific nutritional requirements for hunting dog puppies?

Hunting dog puppies require a diet that is high in protein and fat to support their growth and development. Additionally, they need a diet that provides the necessary vitamins and minerals to support their physical activity. It is important to choose a puppy food that is specifically formulated for hunting dogs.

Is raw meat a good dietary choice for dogs used in hunting?

Raw meat can be a good dietary choice for dogs used in hunting, but it is important to ensure that the meat is fresh and free from any harmful bacteria. Additionally, it is important to provide a balanced diet that includes all of the necessary vitamins and minerals.

What treats provide the best energy and nutrition for hunting dogs?

Treats that are high in protein and fat provide the best energy and nutrition for hunting dogs. Some good options include jerky treats, freeze-dried meat treats, and high-protein biscuits.

How does the nutritional needs of a deer hunting dog differ from other breeds?

Deer hunting dogs require a diet that is high in protein and fat to support their endurance and stamina. Additionally, they need a diet that provides the necessary vitamins and minerals to support their physical activity. It is important to choose a diet that meets the specific nutritional needs of your deer hunting dog.