Dry Dog Food Best Rated: Top 10 Brands for Optimal Health and Taste

Dry dog food is a popular choice among pet owners as it offers convenience and a longer shelf life compared to wet food. It is also a more affordable option for those on a budget. However, with so many options available, it can be challenging to choose the best one for your furry friend.

When it comes to dry dog food, the quality of ingredients is crucial. Look for brands that use high-quality protein sources such as chicken, beef, or fish as the first ingredient. Avoid brands that use fillers such as corn, wheat, or soy, as they provide little nutritional value and can cause digestive issues.

Another factor to consider when choosing dry dog food is the size and age of your dog. Puppies have different nutritional needs than adult dogs, and small breeds have different needs than large breeds. Make sure to choose a formula that is appropriate for your dog’s size and age.

When shopping for dry dog food, pay attention to the guaranteed analysis on the label. This will tell you the percentage of protein, fat, fiber, and moisture in the food. Look for a food that has a high protein content and a moderate fat content. Avoid foods that are high in carbohydrates or have a low protein content.

We spent hours researching and testing various brands of dry dog food to identify the best options available. In the following sections, we will share our top picks for the best-rated dry dog food based on quality of ingredients, size and age appropriateness, and guaranteed analysis.

Best Rated Dry Dog Food

We understand the importance of providing the best nutrition for your furry friend. That’s why we’ve compiled a list of the best rated dry dog foods on Amazon. Our team has extensively researched and compared various brands, ingredients, and customer reviews to bring you this comprehensive roundup. Whether your dog has dietary restrictions or is a picky eater, we’ve got you covered. Check out our top picks below and give your pup the nourishment they deserve.

WAG Dry Dog Food Salmon -amp; Sweet Potato

If you’re looking for a high-quality dry dog food that is both healthy and delicious, then WAG Dry Dog Food Salmon -amp; Sweet Potato is worth considering.

Pros

• With sustainably-raised salmon as the #1 ingredient, this dog food is packed with protein to help keep your dog healthy and active.
• This dog food is grain-free, corn-free, and wheat-free, making it a great choice for dogs with dietary sensitivities.
• Made in a family-owned facility in California, USA, you can feel good about feeding your dog this high-quality food.

Cons

• Some dogs may not like the taste of this dog food, so it’s important to gradually transition your dog to this new food to avoid any dietary upsets.
• This dog food is a bit pricey compared to other options on the market, so it may not be the best choice for budget-conscious pet owners.
• The kibble size is relatively small, which may not be ideal for larger dogs who prefer larger kibble.

We recently tried WAG Dry Dog Food Salmon -amp; Sweet Potato for our own dog and were impressed with the quality of the ingredients and the taste. Our dog seemed to enjoy the food and had no trouble transitioning to it from his previous food.

One thing to note is that the kibble size is relatively small, which may not be ideal for larger dogs who prefer larger kibble. Additionally, the price point is a bit higher than some other options on the market, so it may not be the best choice for pet owners on a tight budget.

Overall, we would recommend WAG Dry Dog Food Salmon -amp; Sweet Potato to anyone looking for a high-quality dry dog food that is both healthy and delicious.

Blue Buffalo Life Protection Formula Natural Adult Dry Dog Food, Chicken and Brown Rice 5-lb Trial Size Bag Chicken -amp; Brown Rice 5 Pound (Pack of 1)

If you’re looking for a dry dog food that is made with high-quality ingredients and contains no artificial flavors or preservatives, then the Blue Buffalo Life Protection Formula Natural Adult Dry Dog Food is a great option. Our experience with this product has been nothing but positive, and we highly recommend it to anyone looking for a healthy and nutritious dog food.

Pros

• The first ingredient is always real meat, which helps your dog build and maintain healthy muscles.
• Contains omega three -amp; six fatty acids to promote a shiny coat and healthy skin.
• Antioxidant-rich lifesource bits help support immune system health and life stage needs.

Cons

• The price may be higher than some other dog food brands.
• Some dogs may not like the taste of the chicken and brown rice flavor.
• The kibble size may not be suitable for small dogs.

Our dog has been eating Blue Buffalo Life Protection Formula Natural Adult Dry Dog Food for a while now, and we have noticed a significant improvement in his coat and overall health. The real meat as the first ingredient ensures that he is getting the protein he needs to maintain healthy muscles, while the omega three -amp; six fatty acids promote a shiny coat and healthy skin.

The antioxidant-rich lifesource bits are also a great addition, as they help support our dog’s immune system health and life stage needs. We appreciate that this dog food is made with the finest natural ingredients and contains no chicken (or poultry) by-product meals, corn, wheat, soy, artificial flavors, or preservatives.

While the price may be higher than some other dog food brands, we believe that the quality of the ingredients justifies the cost. However, some dogs may not like the taste of the chicken and brown rice flavor, so it may be worth trying a smaller bag before committing to a larger size.

Overall, we highly recommend the Blue Buffalo Life Protection Formula Natural Adult Dry Dog Food to anyone looking for a healthy and nutritious dog food. It’s a natural dog food that is made with high-quality ingredients and contains no artificial flavors or preservatives, making it a great choice for any dog owner who wants to give their furry friend the best possible nutrition.

CESAR Small Breed Adult Dry Dog Food Filet Mignon Flavor with Spring Vegetables Garnish Dog Kibble, 12 lb. Bag Filet Mignon 12 Pound (Pack of 1)

If you’re looking for a high-quality dry dog food that is both nutritious and delicious, then CESAR Small Breed Adult Dry Dog Food Filet Mignon Flavor with Spring Vegetables Garnish is definitely worth considering.

Pros

• This product contains 26 essential nutrients that support small breed health, creating happy and healthy dogs.
• H-shaped kibble helps prevent plaque buildup and supports dental hygiene.
• Made with real beef as the first ingredient, this gourmet dog food features tender pieces that are easy to chew and crunchy kibble that brings big flavor to every bowl.

Cons

• Some customers may find the price to be a bit high compared to other dog food brands.
• The product is only suitable for adult dogs, so it may not be the best option for puppies.
• Some dogs may not like the taste or texture of this particular flavor.

We recently tried CESAR Small Breed Adult Dry Dog Food Filet Mignon Flavor with Spring Vegetables Garnish and were impressed with the results. Our dog absolutely loved the taste and eagerly devoured every bowl we gave him. We also noticed that his coat was shinier and his energy levels were higher after eating this food for a few weeks.

One thing we really appreciated about this product is that it contains 26 essential nutrients that support small breed health. This is especially important for dogs that may have specific dietary needs or health concerns. We also liked that the H-shaped kibble helps prevent plaque buildup and supports dental hygiene, which can be a major concern for small breed dogs.

Overall, we would highly recommend CESAR Small Breed Adult Dry Dog Food Filet Mignon Flavor with Spring Vegetables Garnish to any dog owner looking for a high-quality dry dog food that is both nutritious and delicious. While the price may be a bit higher than some other brands, we believe that the quality of the ingredients and the overall health benefits make it well worth the investment.

IAMS Advanced Health Adult Healthy Digestion Dry Dog Food

We highly recommend IAMS Advanced Health Adult Healthy Digestion Dry Dog Food for those looking for a budget-friendly option that still provides great nutrition for their furry friend.

Pros

• This dog food is 100% complete and balanced, containing essential nutrients for your dog’s overall health.
• The formula promotes healthy digestion, resulting in regularity and healthy stools.
• Made with real farm-raised chicken, this dog food is free of wheat, artificial flavors, and preservatives.

Cons

• Some dogs may not like the taste of the food.
• The kibble may be too hard for some dogs to chew.
• The bag is quite large and may be difficult to store for those with limited space.

IAMS Advanced Health Adult Healthy Digestion Dry Dog Food is an excellent choice for dogs with sensitive stomachs. The blend of natural fiber and prebiotics promotes healthy digestion and helps with regularity. The real chicken as the main ingredient provides a great source of protein for your dog.

We appreciate that this dog food is free of wheat, artificial flavors, and preservatives, making it a healthier option than some other brands. Additionally, the 27-pound bag is a great value for the price.

However, some dogs may not like the taste of the food, or may find the kibble too hard to chew. The large bag size may also be difficult for those with limited space to store.

Overall, we believe that IAMS Advanced Health Adult Healthy Digestion Dry Dog Food is a great option for those looking for a budget-friendly dog food that still provides great nutrition for their furry friend.

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

If you’re looking for a high-quality dry dog food that is gentle on your furry friend’s stomach, then Natural Balance Limited Ingredient Adult Grain-Free Dry Dog Food is a great option. Our dogs have been eating this food for years and we’ve noticed a significant improvement in their overall health and energy levels.

Pros

• Made with premium ingredients that support a healthy coat, skin, and digestive system
• Contains a single source of animal protein to help maintain strong muscles
• Gluten-free carbohydrate sources provide your dog with energy and fiber to help support digestive health

Cons

• Slightly more expensive than some other brands of dog food
• Only available in limited flavors
• Some dogs may not like the taste of venison

We love that this dog food is made with a simplified list of premium ingredients, so we know exactly what we’re feeding our dogs. The single source of animal protein helps maintain strong muscles, while gluten-free carbohydrate sources provide energy and fiber to support digestive health. We’ve also noticed that our dogs have a healthier coat and skin since switching to this food.

One thing to keep in mind is that this dog food is slightly more expensive than some other brands, but we believe that the quality of the ingredients justifies the price. Additionally, some dogs may not like the taste of venison, so it’s important to introduce this food slowly and monitor your dog’s reaction.

Overall, we highly recommend Natural Balance Limited Ingredient Adult Grain-Free Dry Dog Food to anyone looking for a high-quality, gentle-on-the-stomach dog food that supports their dog’s overall health and wellbeing.

IAMS Advanced Health Skin -amp; Coat Adult Dry Dog Food Chicken and Salmon Recipe, 27 lb. Bag

We highly recommend the IAMS Advanced Health Skin -amp; Coat Adult Dry Dog Food Chicken and Salmon Recipe for pet parents who want to ensure their dogs have the best nutrition for their whole-body health.

Pros

• The IAMS Smartcoat Blend with Omega fatty acids, zinc, and vitamin E promotes healthy skin and coat luster.
• The optimal omega 6:3 fatty acid ratio is clinically proven to promote skin and coat health.
• The wholesome grains and carbohydrates provide dogs with healthy energy all day.

Cons

• Trace amounts of fillers, artificial flavors, or preservatives may be present due to potential cross-contact during manufacturing.
• The price may be higher than some other similar brands.
• Some dogs may not like the taste.

We have been using IAMS Advanced Health Skin -amp; Coat Adult Dry Dog Food Chicken and Salmon Recipe for our dog for several months now, and we have noticed a significant improvement in his skin and coat health. The kibble is made with real chicken and salmon to maintain strong, healthy muscles, and the Omega-3 fatty acids from fish oil and salmon support healthy skin and a soft, vibrant coat.

This premium-tailored recipe is formulated without fillers, artificial flavors, or preservatives, although trace amounts may be present due to potential cross-contact during manufacturing. The IAMS Smartcoat Blend with Omega fatty acids, zinc, and vitamin E promotes healthy skin and coat luster, and the optimal omega 6:3 fatty acid ratio is clinically proven to promote skin and coat health.

Our dog loves the taste of this dry dog food, and we have noticed that he has more energy throughout the day. The wholesome grains and carbohydrates provide him with healthy energy all day, and the enriched antioxidants help him maintain a strong immune system.

Overall, we highly recommend the IAMS Advanced Health Skin -amp; Coat Adult Dry Dog Food Chicken and Salmon Recipe for pet parents who want to ensure their dogs have the best nutrition for their whole-body health.

Natural Balance Limited Ingredient Adult Dry Dog Food with Healthy Grains, Lamb -amp; Brown Rice Recipe, 4 Pound (Pack of 1) Lamb -amp; Brown Rice 4 Pound (Pack of 1)

If you’re looking for a healthy and delicious dry dog food for your furry friend, look no further than Natural Balance Limited Ingredient Adult Dry Dog Food with Healthy Grains, Lamb -amp; Brown Rice Recipe. We highly recommend this product for its premium ingredients, delicious taste, and health benefits.

Pros

• The first ingredient is real lamb, which provides essential protein and amino acids to help maintain strong muscles.
• Brown rice is included as a healthy and rich source of fiber for digestive health.
• Crafted with nutritious ingredients such as lamb and brown rice, this dog food is complete and balanced with essential nutrients to help maintain your dog’s healthy immune system.

Cons

• Some dogs may not like the taste of lamb.
• The kibble is really hard, which may be difficult for dogs with dental problems.
• The bag is only 4 pounds, which may not be enough for larger dogs or those who eat a lot.

We’ve been using Natural Balance Limited Ingredient Adult Dry Dog Food with Healthy Grains, Lamb -amp; Brown Rice Recipe for a few months now, and we’ve noticed a significant improvement in our dog’s coat, skin, and digestive system. The simplified list of premium ingredients is perfect for dogs with sensitive stomachs, irritable skin, or allergies. We also appreciate that this dog food is made with a single animal protein source and contains no added soy, gluten, or artificial colors or flavors.

Our dog loves the taste of this dog food, and we love that it’s complete and balanced to help meet our dog’s nutritional needs. We also love that it’s backed by Natural Balance’s “Feed with Confidence” program, which tests every batch of food from start to finish to ensure safety with every bite.

Overall, we highly recommend Natural Balance Limited Ingredient Adult Dry Dog Food with Healthy Grains, Lamb -amp; Brown Rice Recipe for any dog who wants a healthy and delicious dry dog food.

IAMS Proactive Health Healthy Weight Control Adult Dry Dog Food with Real Chicken, 15 lb. Bag Chicken 1.88 Gallon (Pack of 1)

If you’re looking for dry dog food that helps with weight control, then IAMS Proactive Health Healthy Weight Control Adult Dry Dog Food with Real Chicken is a great choice for you and your furry friend.

Pros

• The premium nutrition with L-carnitine and less fat helps support healthy weight in adult dogs.
• Wholesome grains provide essential nutrients and carbohydrates for healthy energy.
• Protein sourced from chicken and eggs supports strong, firm muscles.

Cons

• Some dogs may not like the taste.
• May cause gas in some dogs.
• Some customers have received boxes with additional items, like crackers, which can be inconvenient.

We’ve been using IAMS Proactive Health Healthy Weight Control Adult Dry Dog Food with Real Chicken for a few months now, and we’ve noticed a positive change in our dog’s weight and energy levels. The premium nutrition with L-carnitine and less fat has helped our dog maintain a healthy weight, while the wholesome grains and protein sourced from chicken and eggs provide essential nutrients for healthy energy and strong muscles.

One downside we’ve noticed is that some dogs may not like the taste of this dry dog food. Additionally, some customers have reported that their dogs experienced gas after eating this food. Lastly, some customers have reported receiving boxes with additional items, like crackers, which can be inconvenient.

Overall, if you’re looking for dry dog food that helps with weight control and provides essential nutrients for your furry friend, then IAMS Proactive Health Healthy Weight Control Adult Dry Dog Food with Real Chicken is a great option to consider.

Blue Buffalo Life Protection Formula Natural Adult 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 dry dog food that will provide your furry friend with all the necessary nutrients, Blue Buffalo Life Protection Formula is an excellent choice.

Pros

• Real meat is always the first ingredient, providing high-quality protein for building and maintaining healthy muscles.
• Contains essential proteins and carbohydrates to meet the energy needs of adult dogs.
• Antioxidant-rich LifeSource Bits support immune system health, life stage needs, and a healthy oxidative balance.

Cons

• Packaging may vary, so make sure to double-check the product you receive.
• The kibble size may be too large for smaller dogs.
• Some dogs may not enjoy the taste.

We’ve been feeding our adult dogs Blue Buffalo Life Protection Formula for a while now, and we’ve noticed a significant improvement in their overall health. The real meat as the first ingredient ensures that our dogs are getting high-quality protein, while the whole grains, garden veggies, and fruit provide them with essential nutrients.

The LifeSource Bits are an added bonus, providing our dogs with a precise blend of antioxidants, vitamins, and minerals that support their immune system health and life stage needs. We’ve also noticed that our dogs’ coats are shinier and healthier since switching to this dog food.

However, we do want to note that the packaging may vary, so make sure to double-check the product you receive. Additionally, the kibble size may be too large for smaller dogs, and some dogs may not enjoy the taste.

Overall, we highly recommend Blue Buffalo Life Protection Formula for adult dogs. It’s a high-quality, natural dog food that will provide your furry friend with all the necessary nutrients to thrive.

Blue Buffalo Freedom Grain Free Natural Adult Dry Dog Food, Chicken 24-lb Chicken 24 Pound (Pack of 1)

We highly recommend Blue Buffalo Freedom Grain Free Natural Adult Dry Dog Food, Chicken 24-lb Chicken 24 Pound (Pack of 1) for dog owners who want a high-quality, grain-free diet for their furry friends.

Pros

• Starts with real chicken
• Grain-free
• Antioxidant-rich LifeSource Bits

Cons

• Expensive compared to other dog food brands
• Some dogs may not like the taste
• May cause digestive issues in some dogs

We’ve been using Blue Buffalo Freedom Grain Free Natural Adult Dry Dog Food for our dog for the past year and have seen a noticeable improvement in his coat and overall health. The first ingredient is real chicken, which is a high-quality protein source that our dog loves. We also appreciate that it’s grain-free, as our dog has a sensitive stomach and has had issues with other dog foods that contain grains.

One of the unique features of this dog food is the antioxidant-rich LifeSource Bits, which are a precise blend of antioxidants, vitamins, and minerals that support immune system health, life stage needs, and a healthy oxidative balance. We’ve noticed that our dog has been healthier and more energetic since switching to this dog food.

While we love the quality of this dog food, it is more expensive compared to other dog food brands. Additionally, some dogs may not like the taste or may experience digestive issues when switching to this food. However, we believe that the benefits of this high-quality dog food outweigh the cost and any potential drawbacks.

Overall, we highly recommend Blue Buffalo Freedom Grain Free Natural Adult Dry Dog Food, Chicken 24-lb Chicken 24 Pound (Pack of 1) for dog owners who want to provide their furry friends with a nutritious, grain-free diet.

Buying Guide

When it comes to choosing the best rated dry dog food, there are several factors to consider. Here are some key features to look for:

Ingredients

The first thing to consider is the ingredients list. Look for high-quality proteins, such as chicken, beef, or lamb, as the first ingredient. Avoid products that contain fillers like corn, soy, or wheat, as these can be difficult for dogs to digest and may cause allergies.

Nutritional Value

Make sure the product provides a balanced nutritional value for your dog’s age, breed, and activity level. Check the label for information on protein, fat, fiber, and other essential nutrients. Consult with your veterinarian to determine the right nutritional needs for your dog.

Price

Price is also an important factor to consider. While it’s tempting to choose the cheapest option, keep in mind that high-quality ingredients and production methods can come at a higher cost. Make sure to compare prices and read reviews before making a final decision.

Brand Reputation

Consider the brand’s reputation and history of producing high-quality products. Look for brands that have been in business for a long time and have a good track record of producing safe and nutritious dog food.

Packaging

Lastly, consider the packaging of the product. Make sure the packaging is airtight and resealable to keep the food fresh and prevent spoilage. Look for products that come in different sizes to suit your dog’s needs and your budget.

By keeping these factors in mind, you can choose the best rated dry dog food that meets your dog’s nutritional needs and your budget.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the top vet-recommended dry dog foods?

There are several dry dog food brands that are highly recommended by veterinarians. Some of the top vet-recommended dry dog foods include Royal Canin, Hill’s Science Diet, Purina Pro Plan, and Blue Buffalo.

Which dry dog food brands are considered the healthiest?

When it comes to the healthiest dry dog food brands, there are a few that stand out. These include Orijen, Acana, Wellness Core, and Taste of the Wild. These brands are known for using high-quality, whole food ingredients and avoiding fillers and artificial additives.

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

Large breed dogs have specific nutritional needs, so it’s important to choose a dry dog food that is designed for their size. Some of the best-rated dry dog food options for large breed dogs include Blue Buffalo Life Protection Formula Large Breed, Hill’s Science Diet Large Breed, and Purina Pro Plan Large Breed.

What dry dog food do experts suggest for small breed dogs?

Small breed dogs also have unique nutritional needs, so it’s important to choose a dry dog food that is designed for their size. Some of the best dry dog food options for small breed dogs include Wellness Complete Health Small Breed, Blue Buffalo Life Protection Formula Small Breed, and Royal Canin Small Breed.

Are there any dry dog food brands that professionals recommend avoiding?

There are a few dry dog food brands that professionals suggest avoiding due to quality and safety concerns. These brands include Ol’ Roy, Kibbles ‘n Bits, and Beneful.

How does Blue Buffalo compare to IAMS in terms of dry dog food quality?

Both Blue Buffalo and IAMS are popular dry dog food brands, but Blue Buffalo is generally considered to be of higher quality. Blue Buffalo uses higher-quality ingredients and avoids fillers and artificial additives, while IAMS uses more fillers and artificial additives in their products.