The Best Natural Dog Food for Optimal Health and Nutrition

Dogs are more than just pets; they are loyal companions that deserve the best care. One of the most important aspects of dog care is their diet. Feeding your furry friend a healthy and balanced diet is essential for their overall well-being. Natural dog food has become increasingly popular in recent years, as more pet owners are seeking healthier options for their beloved pups.

Natural dog food is made from wholesome and minimally processed ingredients, without any artificial additives or preservatives. This type of dog food is often free from fillers, by-products, and other low-quality ingredients that can be harmful to your dog’s health. The best natural dog food should provide your pup with all the essential nutrients they need to thrive, such as protein, healthy fats, vitamins, and minerals.

When choosing the best natural dog food for your furry friend, it’s important to pay attention to the ingredients list. Look for high-quality protein sources like chicken, beef, and fish, as well as nutrient-rich fruits and vegetables like sweet potatoes, blueberries, and spinach. Avoid dog food that contains artificial flavors, colors, and preservatives, as well as ingredients like corn, wheat, and soy that can be difficult for dogs to digest.

We spent hours researching and testing various natural dog food brands to identify the ones that provide the best nutrition for your furry friend. In the following sections, we’ll share our top picks for the best natural dog food on the market, based on factors like ingredient quality, nutritional value, and taste.

Best Natural Dog Food

As pet owners, we understand the importance of providing our furry friends with the best possible nutrition. Natural dog food is a great option for those looking to provide their dogs with a healthy and balanced diet. Not only does it contain high-quality ingredients, but it also avoids artificial additives and preservatives that can be harmful to your dog’s health. In this article, we have compiled a list of the best natural dog food options on Amazon. These products have been carefully selected based on their quality, nutritional value, and customer reviews.

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

If you’re looking for a natural dog food that’s easy on your pet’s stomach, Natural Balance Limited Ingredient Small Breed Adult Grain-Free Dry Dog Food could be the answer.

Pros

• Salmon is the first animal protein source, providing essential protein and amino acids to help maintain strong muscles.
• Sweet Potatoes are included as a grain-free source of fiber to help support digestive health.
• Specially formulated for small dogs, every bite is packed with flavor and the smaller size accommodates smaller jaw sizes for easier eating.

Cons

• Some dogs may not like the taste of salmon.
• The kibble may be too small for larger dogs.
• The price may be higher than some other dog food brands.

We’ve been using Natural Balance Limited Ingredient Small Breed Adult Grain-Free Dry Dog Food for a few months now and have seen a noticeable improvement in our dog’s coat, skin, and digestive system. The simplified list of premium ingredients makes it easy to control what our dog eats, and the single animal protein source ensures that she’s getting the nutrition she needs without any added grain, soy, gluten, or artificial colors or flavors.

The salmon and sweet potato formula has everything we want to feed our dog and nothing we don’t, with no added peas, pea protein, lentils, legumes, corn, wheat, or soy. The crunchy texture of this premium dry dog food helps promote clean teeth and healthy gums, and every bite is packed with flavor and rich in nutrients.

We appreciate that Natural Balance’s ‘Feed with Confidence’ program tests every batch of food from start to finish, ensuring safety with every bite. We can validate the bag on their site or call their Customer Care Team of Registered Veterinary Technicians if we have any questions or concerns.

Overall, we highly recommend Natural Balance Limited Ingredient Small Breed Adult Grain-Free Dry Dog Food for any dog owner looking for a high-quality, natural dog food that’s easy on their pet’s stomach.

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 premium dog food that’s made with select, simple, and natural ingredients, Natural Balance Limited Ingredient Diets Lamb -amp; Brown Rice Formula Dry Dog Food is definitely worth considering. Our furry friend has been eating this food for a few weeks now, and we’ve noticed a significant improvement in his coat, skin, and overall health.

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.
• Made with a simplified list of premium ingredients to help support a healthy coat, skin -amp; digestive system.

Cons

• The kibble is really hard, which may not be suitable for dogs with dental issues.
• Some dogs may not like the taste or texture of the food.
• The price point may be higher than other dog food brands.

We appreciate that this dog food is made with a single animal protein source and contains no added soy, gluten, or artificial colors or flavors. This makes it a great option for dogs with sensitive stomachs, irritable skin, or allergies. The lamb and brown rice formula is complete and balanced with essential nutrients to help maintain your dog’s healthy immune system.

We also like that Natural Balance’s ‘Feed with Confidence’ program tests every batch of food from start to finish, ensuring safety with every bite. You can validate the bag on their site or call their Customer Care Team of Registered Veterinary Technicians if you have any questions or concerns.

Overall, we highly recommend Natural Balance Limited Ingredient Diets Lamb -amp; Brown Rice Formula Dry Dog Food for pet owners who want to provide their furry friend with a premium dog food that’s made with natural and healthy ingredients.

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

If you’re looking for a high-quality natural dog food that’s free of grains, Blue Buffalo Freedom Grain Free Natural Adult Dry Dog Food is a great option. With real beef as the first ingredient and no chicken or poultry by-product meals, this dog food is sure to please even the pickiest eaters.

Pros

• Made with high-quality, natural ingredients
• Grain-free recipe is perfect for dogs with allergies or sensitivities
• Contains a precise blend of antioxidants, vitamins, and minerals to support immune system health

Cons

• More expensive than some other dog food brands
• May not be suitable for dogs with certain medical conditions
• Some dogs may not like the taste of the beef flavor

We’ve been using Blue Buffalo Freedom Grain Free Natural Adult Dry Dog Food for several months now and have been very happy with the results. Our dog loves the taste and we love that it’s made with high-quality, natural ingredients. The grain-free recipe is perfect for dogs with allergies or sensitivities, and the added antioxidants, vitamins, and minerals help support our dog’s immune system.

One thing to keep in mind is that this dog food is a bit more expensive than some other brands, but we feel that the added cost is worth it for the quality ingredients. Additionally, if your dog has certain medical conditions, such as kidney disease, this dog food may not be suitable for them. Finally, while our dog loves the beef flavor, some dogs may not like it as much as other flavors.

Overall, we highly recommend Blue Buffalo Freedom Grain Free Natural Adult Dry Dog Food for anyone looking for a high-quality, natural dog food that’s free of grains.

The Honest Kitchen Whole Food Clusters Grain Free Beef Dry Dog Food, 5 lb Bag 80 Fl Oz (Pack of 1)

If you’re looking for a high-quality dog food that’s made with human-grade ingredients, The Honest Kitchen Whole Food Clusters Grain Free Beef Dry Dog Food is a great option.

Pros

• Made with 100% human-grade ingredients
• Suitable for all life stages, including puppies and pregnant or lactating dogs
• Minimally processed for maximum nutrition

Cons

• Expensive compared to some other dog foods
• Some dogs may not like the taste or texture
• Requires rehydration before serving

We were impressed with the quality of the ingredients in this dog food. The beef is ranch-raised and the food is made in a human food facility, so you can be sure that you’re feeding your dog the best possible nutrition.

One thing to keep in mind is that this dog food is quite expensive compared to some other options on the market. However, we believe that the high quality of the ingredients makes it worth the extra cost.

Another potential downside is that some dogs may not like the taste or texture of this food. It does require rehydration before serving, which can be a bit of a hassle for some pet owners.

Overall, we would recommend The Honest Kitchen Whole Food Clusters Grain Free Beef Dry Dog Food to anyone who wants to feed their dog a high-quality, minimally processed diet. It’s a bit pricey, but we think the benefits are worth it.

The Honest Kitchen Whole Food Clusters Grain Free Chicken Dry Dog Food

This is a great product for those who want to feed their dogs minimally processed, human-grade food.

Pros

• Made with 100% human-grade ingredients and produced in a human food facility.
• Suitable for puppies and adult dogs of all breeds and sizes.
• Clusters are thoughtfully prepared using human grade muscle meat -amp; liver, low glycemic carbs, beneficial fats -amp; live probiotics.

Cons

• A bit pricey compared to other dog foods.
• Some dogs may not like the taste of the food.
• The food may not be suitable for dogs with certain allergies.

We have been using The Honest Kitchen Whole Food Clusters Grain Free Chicken Dry Dog Food for a few months now and our dog seems to love it. The food is made with high-quality, human-grade ingredients and is minimally processed. We appreciate that the food is produced in a human food facility, which means that it meets high safety standards.

One thing we have noticed is that the food is a bit pricey compared to other dog foods. However, we feel that the quality of the food is worth the extra cost. We also appreciate that the food is suitable for puppies and adult dogs of all breeds and sizes, which makes it a versatile option for pet owners.

Overall, we would recommend The Honest Kitchen Whole Food Clusters Grain Free Chicken Dry Dog Food to pet owners who are looking for a high-quality, minimally processed food for their dogs. While it may be a bit pricey, we feel that the quality of the food is worth the extra cost.

The Honest Kitchen Whole Food Clusters Human Grade Dry Dog Food – Grain Free Turkey 5 lbs Grain Free Turkey 80 Fl Oz (Pack of 1)

If you’re looking for a natural dog food that’s made with human-grade ingredients, then The Honest Kitchen Whole Food Clusters Human Grade Dry Dog Food is definitely worth considering.

Pros

• Made with human-grade, minimally processed whole foods
• Kettle-cooked in small batches for a hearty, chunky texture
• Does not contain any gums, carrageenan, feed grade ingredients, meat meals, fillers, GMO ingredients, artificial flavors or artificial preservatives

Cons

• Can be a bit pricey compared to other natural dog food brands
• Some dogs may not like the taste or texture of the food
• The food may crumble easily, which can be messy

We’ve been using The Honest Kitchen Whole Food Clusters Human Grade Dry Dog Food for a few months now and have been really impressed with the quality of the food. It’s made with real, whole foods that are minimally processed, which we feel good about feeding to our furry friend. The food is also kettle-cooked in small batches, which gives it a hearty, chunky texture that our dog seems to enjoy.

One thing we really appreciate about this dog food is that it does not contain any gums, carrageenan, feed grade ingredients, meat meals, fillers, GMO ingredients, artificial flavors or artificial preservatives. This gives us peace of mind knowing that we’re feeding our dog a high-quality, natural diet.

One potential downside to this dog food is that it can be a bit pricey compared to other natural dog food brands. However, we feel that the quality of the food is worth the extra cost. Additionally, some dogs may not like the taste or texture of the food, so it may take some trial and error to find out if it’s a good fit for your pup.

Another potential downside is that the food can crumble easily, which can be messy. However, we’ve found that mixing the food with a bit of water or broth can help to prevent this issue.

Overall, we highly recommend The Honest Kitchen Whole Food Clusters Human Grade Dry Dog Food to anyone looking for a high-quality, natural dog food that’s made with human-grade ingredients.

Blue Buffalo Life Protection Formula Natural Adult Dry Dog Food, Chicken and Brown Rice 5-lb Trial Size Bag

If you’re looking for a high-quality natural dog food, then Blue Buffalo Life Protection Formula Natural Adult Dry Dog Food might be just what you need. We highly recommend this product for its balanced recipe and natural ingredients.

Pros

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

Cons

• Some dogs may not like the taste
• May not be suitable for dogs with certain dietary restrictions
• Packaging may vary, causing confusion for some customers

We’ve been using Blue Buffalo Life Protection Formula Natural Adult Dry Dog Food for a while now and we’re very happy with it. Our dog loves the taste and we love the fact that it’s made with natural ingredients and contains no chicken (or poultry) by-product meals, corn, wheat, soy, artificial flavors, or preservatives.

The real meat in this product provides high-quality protein for healthy muscles, while the essential proteins and carbohydrates help meet the energy needs of adult dogs. We also appreciate the inclusion of antioxidant-rich LifeSource Bits, which support a healthy immune system.

While some dogs may not like the taste, we haven’t had any issues with our dog refusing to eat it. However, it’s important to note that this product may not be suitable for dogs with certain dietary restrictions.

Overall, we highly recommend Blue Buffalo Life Protection Formula Natural Adult Dry Dog Food for its balanced recipe and natural ingredients. If you’re looking for a high-quality natural dog food, this is definitely worth considering.

Purina Pro Plan High Protein Dog Food With Probiotics for Dogs, Shredded Blend Salmon -amp; Rice Formula – 17 lb. Bag

We highly recommend the Purina Pro Plan High Protein Dog Food with Probiotics for Dogs, Shredded Blend Salmon -amp; Rice Formula. It is a great option for pet owners who are looking for a high-protein dog food that is also nutritious and tasty.

Pros

• The combination of hard kibble and tender shredded pieces makes it a delicious and satisfying meal for dogs
• Real salmon is the first ingredient, providing a high-quality source of protein
• Fortified with guaranteed live probiotics for digestive and immune health

Cons

• Contains wheat bran, which may not be suitable for dogs with wheat allergies
• Some customers have reported that the kibble is too hard for their dogs to chew
• It is a bit more expensive than other dog food brands

We have been using this dog food for a few months now, and our dog loves it. The combination of hard kibble and tender shredded pieces makes it a satisfying meal for him, and we have noticed an improvement in his coat and overall health since we switched to this brand.

The fact that real salmon is the first ingredient is a big plus for us, as it provides a high-quality source of protein that is essential for our dog’s health. We also appreciate that it is fortified with guaranteed live probiotics, which helps support his digestive and immune health.

One thing to note is that this dog food contains wheat bran, which may not be suitable for dogs with wheat allergies. Additionally, some customers have reported that the kibble is too hard for their dogs to chew, so it may not be the best option for dogs with dental issues.

Overall, we highly recommend the Purina Pro Plan High Protein Dog Food with Probiotics for Dogs, Shredded Blend Salmon -amp; Rice Formula. It is a nutritious and tasty option for pet owners who are looking for a high-protein dog food that will keep their dogs healthy and satisfied.

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

If you’re looking for a natural dog food that is both delicious and nutritious, Nature’s Recipe Grain Free Salmon, Sweet Potato -amp; Pumpkin Recipe is an excellent choice for your furry friend.

Pros

• Real salmon is the number one ingredient, providing quality protein to help maintain optimal muscle strength.
• Made with nutrient-dense carbohydrate sources like sweet potato and pumpkin instead of added corn or wheat, promoting healthy digestion and immune system health.
• Contains antioxidants zinc and vitamin E, which help support a healthy immune system and healthy heart.

Cons

• Some customers have reported that the food has a different appearance and smell than previous bags they’ve purchased.
• The price point may be higher than some other dog food brands on the market.
• While many dogs love the taste of this food, some may not be as enthusiastic.

We recently tried this food with our own dog and were pleased with the results. She seemed to enjoy the taste and had no issues with digestion or any other adverse reactions. We appreciated that the ingredients were natural and nutrient-dense, providing our dog with the fuel she needs to live a happy and healthy life.

Overall, we would recommend Nature’s Recipe Grain Free Salmon, Sweet Potato -amp; Pumpkin Recipe to other dog owners looking for a high-quality natural dog food option.

Rachael Ray Nutrish Premium Natural Dry Dog Food, Real Beef, Pea, -amp; Brown Rice Recipe, 40 Pound Bag

If you’re looking for a natural dog food that’s both healthy and tasty, then we highly recommend the Rachael Ray Nutrish Premium Natural Dry Dog Food. Made with real beef, peas, and brown rice, this dry dog food is packed with essential vitamins and minerals to help keep your furry friend healthy and happy.

Pros

• Real beef is the number one ingredient, which helps support healthy organs and maintain lean muscle mass
• Includes Nutrish’s Whole Health Blend, which helps support a healthy mind, body, and energy level
• No fillers, artificial flavors, or artificial preservatives

Cons

• Some dogs may not like the taste of the recipe
• The kibble size may be too large for smaller dogs
• The price may be higher than other dog food brands

We’ve been using the Rachael Ray Nutrish Premium Natural Dry Dog Food for our own dog for several months now, and we’ve noticed a significant improvement in his overall health and energy levels. The real beef in the recipe provides a great source of protein, while the peas and brown rice help support healthy digestion.

One thing to note is that some dogs may not enjoy the taste of the recipe, so it’s important to introduce the food slowly and monitor your dog’s reaction. Additionally, the kibble size may be too large for smaller dogs, so it’s important to take that into consideration when purchasing.

Overall, we highly recommend the Rachael Ray Nutrish Premium Natural Dry Dog Food for dog owners who want to provide their furry friends with a healthy and tasty meal. Plus, a portion of the proceeds from the sale of this product will be donated to The Rachael Ray Foundation, which helps animals in need.

Buying Guide

When it comes to choosing the best natural dog food, there are several factors to consider. Here are some important features to look for when selecting a product:

Ingredients

The first thing to look for in a natural dog food is the ingredients list. Make sure that the product contains high-quality, whole food ingredients that provide a balanced and nutritious diet for your furry friend. Avoid products that contain fillers, artificial flavors, and preservatives. Look for natural preservatives like Vitamin E and C.

Protein Content

Dogs are carnivores, so it’s important to choose a product that contains a high percentage of protein. Look for natural dog foods that contain whole meat, fish, or poultry as the first ingredient. Avoid products that use meat by-products or meat meal as the main source of protein.

Nutritional Value

Check the nutritional value of the product to ensure that it meets the specific needs of your dog. Look for natural dog foods that contain essential vitamins and minerals, such as calcium, phosphorus, and Omega-3 fatty acids. These nutrients are essential for maintaining your dog’s overall health and wellbeing.

Price

Natural dog food can be more expensive than traditional dog food, but it’s worth the investment for the health of your pet. Compare prices of different brands and products to find the best value for your budget. Keep in mind that higher-priced products may offer better quality ingredients and nutritional value.

Brand Reputation

Choose a natural dog food brand that has a good reputation for quality and safety. Look for brands that have been in business for a long time and have a history of producing high-quality products. Check reviews and ratings from other pet owners to get an idea of the brand’s reputation.

By considering these factors, you can choose the best natural dog food for your furry friend. Remember to consult with your veterinarian to determine the specific nutritional needs of your dog.

Frequently Asked Questions

What ingredients should I look for in high-quality natural dog food?

When choosing natural dog food, it’s important to look for high-quality ingredients that provide the necessary nutrients for your pet’s health. Look for natural dog food that contains whole proteins, such as real meat, poultry, or fish, as the first ingredient. You should also look for natural dog food that contains vegetables, fruits, and whole grains for added nutrition. Avoid artificial preservatives, colors, and flavors, as well as by-products and fillers.

Which natural dog food brands are recommended by veterinarians?

Many veterinarians recommend natural dog food brands such as Blue Buffalo, Hill’s Science Diet, and Purina Pro Plan. These brands offer a range of natural dog food options that are formulated to meet the nutritional needs of dogs at different life stages and with different dietary requirements.

How do I choose the best natural dry dog food for my pet’s specific needs?

When choosing natural dry dog food, consider your pet’s age, breed, and activity level. Look for a natural dog food that is specifically formulated for your pet’s life stage and size. If your dog has any special dietary requirements or health issues, consult with your veterinarian to determine the best natural dog food option for your pet.

Are there any natural dog food recipes that provide complete nutrition?

Yes, there are many natural dog food recipes that provide complete nutrition for your pet. However, it’s important to consult with your veterinarian before making any changes to your pet’s diet. Homemade dog food recipes may require additional supplements to ensure your pet is receiving all the necessary nutrients.

What are the benefits of feeding my dog grain-free natural food?

Grain-free natural dog food can be beneficial for dogs with food allergies or sensitivities to grains. Grain-free natural dog food is also often higher in protein and lower in carbohydrates, which can help maintain your dog’s energy levels and promote healthy digestion.

How can I transition my dog to a natural food diet safely?

To transition your dog to a natural food diet safely, start by gradually incorporating the new food into your pet’s diet. Begin by mixing a small amount of the new food with your pet’s current food and gradually increase the amount over several days. Monitor your pet’s health and digestion during the transition period. If you have any concerns, consult with your veterinarian.