Best AKC Dog Food: Top Picks for Optimal Nutrition

Dog food is an essential part of every dog owner’s life. It is a crucial element in keeping your dog healthy and happy. As a dog owner, you want to ensure that you are feeding your furry friend the best possible food. That’s where the American Kennel Club (AKC) comes in. The AKC is a trusted resource for dog owners, and they have a list of the best dog food brands that you can trust.

When it comes to choosing the best dog food for your pooch, there are several factors you need to consider. The first and most important is the quality of the ingredients. The food should contain high-quality protein, healthy fats, and essential vitamins and minerals. Additionally, you need to consider your dog’s age, size, and activity level when selecting the best food for them.

The AKC has done extensive research and testing on various dog food brands and has come up with a list of the best dog food brands that you can trust. These brands have been thoroughly tested and are made with high-quality ingredients that are beneficial for your dog’s health. In this article, we will be discussing the best dog food AKC recommends and what you need to consider when selecting dog food for your furry friend.

When choosing the best dog food, you need to pay attention to the ingredients list, the nutritional value, and the type of food. Whether you are looking for dry food, wet food, or raw food, AKC has got you covered. In the next section, we will be discussing the best dog food brands that AKC recommends and why they made the list.

Best Dog Food for AKC Breeds

As dog owners ourselves, we understand the importance of providing our furry friends with the best nutrition possible. For those who own American Kennel Club (AKC) breeds, finding the right dog food can be a bit of a challenge. That’s why we’ve put together a list of the best dog food options specifically tailored to meet the needs of AKC breeds. From puppyhood to senior years, we’ve got you covered with our top picks. So without further ado, here are the best dog foods for AKC breeds.

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’re looking for a dog food that will fuel your dog’s active lifestyle, Purina Pro Plan High Calorie, High Protein Dry Dog Food is a great option to consider.

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

• Some may find it to be pricier than other dog food options
• May not be suitable for dogs with certain dietary restrictions
• The size of the kibble may not be ideal for all dogs

Our experience with Purina Pro Plan High Calorie, High Protein Dry Dog Food has been positive overall. We appreciate that real chicken is the first ingredient, and the high protein formula helps our dog maintain lean, strong muscles. We’ve also noticed that our dog seems to have more energy and endurance during exercise since we switched to this food.

One thing to keep in mind is that the kibble size may not be ideal for all dogs. Our dog has no trouble with it, but some smaller dogs may have difficulty chewing and digesting it. Additionally, while we think the price is worth it for the quality, some may find it to be on the pricier side.

Overall, if you have an active dog and are looking for a dog food that will help them perform their best, we recommend giving Purina Pro Plan High Calorie, High Protein Dry Dog Food a try.

Rachael Ray Nutrish Premium Natural Dry Dog Food

If you’re looking for a dog food that’s both delicious and nutritious, Rachael Ray Nutrish Real Beef, Pea -amp; Brown Rice Recipe is a great choice.

Pros

• Real beef is the number one ingredient, making it a great source of protein for your furry friend.
• The Whole Health Blend includes omega-3 fatty acids from fish oil, antioxidants from superfoods, and whole grains to support your dog’s overall health.
• No fillers, artificial flavors, or preservatives, so you can feel good about what you’re feeding your dog.

Cons

• Some dogs may not like the taste or texture of this food.
• It may be more expensive than other dog foods on the market.
• The large bag size may be difficult to store for those with limited space.

We’ve been using Rachael Ray Nutrish Real Beef, Pea -amp; Brown Rice Recipe for our dog for a few months now, and we’re happy with the results. Our dog loves the taste and eagerly eats her meals. We’ve noticed that her coat is shinier and she seems to have more energy since switching to this food.

One thing to note is that the kibble is on the larger side, so it may not be suitable for smaller dogs or those with dental issues. Additionally, the bag is quite large and may take up more space than some pet owners are comfortable with.

Overall, we recommend Rachael Ray Nutrish Real Beef, Pea -amp; Brown Rice Recipe for those looking for a high-quality dog food with real ingredients and no fillers or artificial additives.

Blue Buffalo Dog Food, Life Protection Formula, Natural Beef -amp; Brown Rice Flavor, Adult Dry Dog Food, 30 lb Bag Beef -amp; Brown Rice 3.75 Gallon (Pack of 1)

If you’re looking for a high-quality dog food that’s made with natural ingredients and designed to promote the health and well-being of your furry friend, then you should definitely consider Blue Buffalo Dog Food, Life Protection Formula, Natural Beef -amp; Brown Rice Flavor, Adult Dry Dog Food.

Pros

• The first ingredient in this premium dog food is high-quality beef, which provides your dog with essential protein for strong muscles.
• This natural dry dog food is made with premium ingredients and contains no poultry by-products, corn, wheat or soy.
• The formula is designed to provide the perfect balance of flavor and nutrition, with essential proteins and carbs for energy needs and omega-3 -amp; 6 fatty acids to promote healthy skin and coat.

Cons

• Some dogs may not like the taste of this formula.
• It may be more expensive than other dog food brands.
• The packaging may vary, which could be confusing for some pet owners.

I’ve been using Blue Buffalo Dog Food, Life Protection Formula, Natural Beef -amp; Brown Rice Flavor, Adult Dry Dog Food for a few months now, and I’ve noticed a significant improvement in my dog’s health and energy levels. The first thing I noticed was how much he enjoyed the taste of this formula – he always finishes his bowl!

I also appreciate that this dog food is made with high-quality, natural ingredients and doesn’t contain any fillers or artificial preservatives. It’s clear that Blue Buffalo is committed to providing dogs with the best possible nutrition to help them thrive.

One thing to keep in mind is that this dog food may be more expensive than other brands, but I believe it’s worth the extra cost for the quality of the ingredients and the benefits it provides to my dog’s health.

Overall, I highly recommend Blue Buffalo Dog Food, Life Protection Formula, Natural Beef -amp; Brown Rice Flavor, Adult Dry Dog Food to any pet owner who wants to provide their furry friend with the best possible nutrition.

Purina ONE Dry Dog Food Lamb and Rice Formula – 31.1 lb. Bag

If you’re looking for a high-quality dog food that supports your dog’s overall health and well-being, Purina ONE Natural Lamb and Rice Formula with Added Vitamins, Minerals and Nutrients dry dog food is a great option.

Pros

• The first ingredient in this dog food is real lamb, which provides protein to support strong muscles and a healthy heart.
• Made with prebiotic fiber, this dog food supports a microbiome balance and is highly digestible, promoting gut health and immune support.
• Contains natural sources of glucosamine for joint health, vitamins A and E for bright eyes, and omega-6 fatty acids, vitamins, and minerals for a shiny coat and healthy skin.

Cons

• Some dogs may not like the taste of lamb.
• The kibble size may be too big for smaller dogs.
• This dog food may not be suitable for dogs with certain dietary restrictions or allergies.

We’ve had great experiences with Purina ONE Natural Lamb and Rice Formula with Added Vitamins, Minerals and Nutrients dry dog food. Our dogs love the taste, and we’ve noticed improvements in their coat and overall health. The real lamb provides high-quality protein, and the added vitamins and minerals help ensure that our dogs are getting complete and balanced nutrition. We also appreciate that this dog food is made with prebiotic fiber, which supports gut health and immune function.

Overall, we highly recommend Purina ONE Natural Lamb and Rice Formula with Added Vitamins, Minerals and Nutrients dry dog food for dog owners looking for a high-quality, nutritious dog food that supports their dog’s overall health and well-being.

ORAVET Dental Chews for Dogs

If you want to keep your dog’s teeth clean while also giving them a tasty treat, then ORAVET Dental Chews for Dogs are worth considering.

Pros

• These chews help reduce plaque and tartar build-up, which can lead to better oral health for your dog.
• ORAVET Dental Chews are made with a unique ingredient called delmopinol, which helps to protect against harmful bacteria that can cause bad breath.
• The chews are easy to give to your dog and have a pleasant vanilla aroma with a poultry flavor that your dog will love.

Cons

• Some dogs may not like the taste of the chews or may have trouble chewing them.
• ORAVET Dental Chews are not a substitute for regular dental check-ups and cleanings by a veterinarian.
• The chews can be expensive compared to other dental care products for dogs.

We have been using ORAVET Dental Chews for our dog for several months now and have noticed a significant improvement in her oral health. Her teeth are cleaner and her breath is fresher. The chews are easy to give to her and she looks forward to them as a treat.

It’s important to note that ORAVET Dental Chews are not a substitute for regular dental check-ups and cleanings by a veterinarian. However, they can be a helpful addition to your dog’s daily dental care routine.

Overall, we would recommend ORAVET Dental Chews for Dogs to anyone looking for a tasty way to help keep their dog’s teeth clean and healthy.

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 high-quality, natural dog food that’s simple and delicious, Nutro So Simple Wet Dog Meal Complement is a great choice.

Pros

• Made with only 7 natural ingredients, including real chicken as the #1 ingredient and real duck.
• Mix this dog food 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 foods.
• Some customers reported issues with clumping.
• Not suitable for dogs with specific dietary needs.

We recently tried Nutro So Simple Wet Dog Meal Complement and were impressed with the quality of the ingredients and the taste. Our dog loved it and we felt good about feeding her a natural, healthy meal.

The simple recipe is made with only 7 natural ingredients, including real chicken as the #1 ingredient and real duck. We appreciated that it didn’t contain any grains, chicken by-product meal, corn, wheat or soy, and no artificial flavors*, colors* or preservatives*.

We also liked that this dog food can be mixed in with your dog’s favorite Nutro Dry Dog Food for added flavor and ultimate tail wags. It’s a great way to give your dog a variety of flavors and keep mealtime interesting.

However, we did find that it was more expensive than other dog foods on the market, and some customers reported issues with clumping. Additionally, if your dog has specific dietary needs, this may not be the best choice for them.

Overall, we would recommend Nutro So Simple Wet Dog Meal Complement to anyone looking for a high-quality, natural dog food that’s simple and delicious.

ZIWI Peak Air-Dried Dog Food – All Natural, High Protein, Grain Free and Limited Ingredient with Superfoods (Lamb, 1.0 lb) Lamb 1 Pound (Pack of 1)

If you’re looking for a nutritious and tasty dog food that’s made with limited ingredients and free from artificial fillers, look no further than ZIWI Peak Air-Dried Dog Food.

Pros

• The centuries-old air drying method used to make this food naturally preserves all ingredients without the need for artificial fillers, maximizing flavor and retaining nutrients.
• With 96% fresh meat, organs, and bones, as well as superfoods like green mussels, organic kelp, and green tripe, this food is packed with the nutrients your dog needs to thrive.
• ZIWI Peak is sourced from 100% ethical and sustainable farms and blue waters in New Zealand, with no added hormones, antibiotics, or growth promotants.

Cons

• This food is more expensive than some other dog food options on the market.
• Some dogs may not like the taste or texture of this air-dried food.
• The Lamb flavor may not be suitable for dogs with lamb allergies or sensitivities.

ZIWI Peak Air-Dried Dog Food has been a game-changer for our furry friend. The air drying process used to make this food ensures that all the nutrients are preserved, and the limited ingredient formula means that we can trust the ingredients that are going into our dog’s body. Plus, the addition of superfoods like green mussels and organic kelp gives us peace of mind that our dog is getting all the nutrients they need to stay healthy.

We also appreciate that ZIWI Peak is sourced from ethical and sustainable farms and blue waters in New Zealand. Knowing that the food we’re feeding our dog is free from added hormones, antibiotics, and growth promotants is important to us.

While this food may be more expensive than some other options on the market, we believe that the quality of the ingredients and the air drying process make it worth the investment. However, some dogs may not like the taste or texture of this air-dried food, so it’s important to introduce it slowly and monitor your dog’s reaction.

Overall, we highly recommend ZIWI Peak Air-Dried Dog Food to anyone looking for a nutritious and tasty dog food that’s made with limited ingredients and free from artificial fillers.

Canidae Pure Limited Ingredient Premium Dry Cat Food, Real Salmon Recipe, 5 lbs, Grain Free Salmon 80 Fl Oz (Pack of 1)

If you’re looking for a healthy and nutritious cat food that is also affordable, you might want to consider Canidae Pure Limited Ingredient Premium Dry Cat Food.

Pros

• Crafted with real salmon as the first ingredient, paired with whole ingredients like menhaden fish, potatoes, and peas, which gives it a great taste that your cat will love.
• It’s a grain-free, hypoallergenic cat food that is perfect for kitties with a sensitive stomach.
• Formulated with antioxidants and probiotics to support a healthy digestive and immune system, along with a nutritious blend of vitamins and minerals to support healthy joints, skin, and coat.

Cons

• The smell is very strong and can be smelled from across the room.
• Some customers have reported that their cats got sick and threw up after eating this food.
• There have been complaints about the food rapidly degrading into a great deal of unusable crumbs.

We’ve been feeding our cat, Theo, this recipe for almost ten years now and he loves it. We were buying it from another vendor but they stopped carrying it, so we started ordering it from Amazon. It’s great to have a reliable source for this food. We’ve noticed that Theo’s coat is shiny and healthy, and he has a lot of energy.

One thing we’ve noticed is that the smell is quite strong, so if you’re sensitive to smells, you might want to keep that in mind. Additionally, some customers have reported that their cats got sick and threw up after eating this food. We haven’t had that experience, but it’s something to be aware of. Finally, we’ve noticed that the food can rapidly degrade into a great deal of unusable crumbs, which is a bit of a waste.

Overall, we recommend Canidae Pure Limited Ingredient Premium Dry Cat Food. It’s affordable, healthy, and nutritious, and our cat loves it.

Hill’s Science Diet Adult Large Breed Dry Dog Food

We highly recommend Hill’s Science Diet Adult Large Breed Dry Dog Food to all dog owners looking to provide their furry friends with a balanced and nutritious diet.

Pros

• Provides the necessary energy for large breed adult dogs
• Supports joint health with natural sources of Glucosamine and Chondroitin
• Promotes lean muscle with high-quality protein

Cons

• Some dogs may not like the taste
• May cause digestive issues in some dogs
• The kibble size may be too large for some dogs

We have been using Hill’s Science Diet Adult Large Breed Dry Dog Food for our German Shepherd for the past year, and we have seen a noticeable improvement in his overall health and energy levels. The kibble is easy to digest, and it provides him with the necessary nutrients to maintain a healthy weight and build lean muscle.

One of the standout features of this dog food is its natural sources of Glucosamine and Chondroitin, which have helped to improve our dog’s joint health and mobility. Additionally, the balanced blend of omega-6s and vitamin E has nourished our dog’s skin and coat, leaving it healthy and shiny.

While our dog loves the taste of this dog food, we have heard from other dog owners that their dogs were not as fond of it. Additionally, some dogs may experience digestive issues when switching to this food. Finally, the kibble size may be too large for some dogs, which could be a concern for smaller breeds.

Overall, we highly recommend Hill’s Science Diet Adult Large Breed Dry Dog Food to any dog owner looking to provide their furry friend with a balanced and nutritious diet.

Blue Buffalo Life Protection Formula Natural Adult Healthy Weight Dry Dog Food, Chicken and Brown Rice 30-lb Healthy Weight Chicken -amp; Brown Rice 30 Pound (Pack of 1)

If you’re looking for a high-quality dog food that can help your furry friend maintain a healthy weight, Blue Buffalo Life Protection Formula Natural Adult Healthy Weight Dry Dog Food is a great choice.

Pros

• Real chicken is the first ingredient, providing high-quality protein for your dog’s muscles.
• Contains wholesome whole grains, garden veggies, and fruit for a balanced diet.
• Formulated with reduced calories from fat to help your dog achieve and maintain a healthy weight.

Cons

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

We’ve been using this dog food for a few months now and have been really happy with it. Our dog seems to enjoy the taste and we’ve noticed that he’s been maintaining a healthy weight. We appreciate that the food is made with high-quality, natural ingredients and doesn’t contain any artificial flavors or preservatives.

One thing to note is that some dogs may not like the taste of the food, so it may take some time to find out if your furry friend enjoys it. Additionally, we’ve heard from some pet owners that the food can cause digestive issues in some dogs, so it’s important to monitor your dog’s reaction to the food.

Overall, we think that Blue Buffalo Life Protection Formula Natural Adult Healthy Weight Dry Dog Food is a great choice for pet owners who want to provide their dogs with a high-quality, nutritious diet that can help them maintain a healthy weight.

Buying Guide

When it comes to choosing the best dog food for your furry friend, there are several factors to consider. We understand that it can be overwhelming to choose from the vast selection of products available in the market. That’s why we’ve put together this buying guide to help you make an informed decision.

Nutritional Requirements

The first step in choosing the right dog food is to consider your dog’s nutritional requirements. Dogs of different ages, sizes, and breeds have different nutritional needs. Puppies require more protein and calories than adult dogs, while senior dogs may need a diet that is lower in calories and fat. It is essential to choose a dog food that meets your dog’s specific nutritional requirements.

Ingredients

The quality of ingredients is another crucial factor to consider when choosing dog food. Look for products that contain high-quality protein sources, such as chicken, lamb, or fish. Avoid products that contain fillers, by-products, and artificial preservatives. Reading the ingredient list carefully can help you determine the quality of the product.

Type of Food

There are several types of dog food available, including dry kibble, wet food, and raw food. Each type of food has its own set of advantages and disadvantages. Dry kibble is convenient and has a longer shelf life, while wet food is more palatable and contains more moisture. Raw food is a popular choice for pet owners who prefer a natural diet for their dogs.

Price

Price is another important factor to consider when choosing dog food. High-end products may be more expensive, but they often contain higher-quality ingredients and are more nutritious. However, it is not always necessary to choose the most expensive product. Look for products that offer a balance of quality and affordability.

In conclusion, choosing the right dog food requires careful consideration of your dog’s nutritional requirements, ingredients, type of food, and price. We hope that this buying guide has helped you make an informed decision.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the top-rated dog foods recommended by the AKC?

At the AKC, we recommend dog foods that meet our nutritional standards and are made with high-quality ingredients. Some of the top-rated dog foods that we recommend are Royal Canin, Hill’s Science Diet, and Purina Pro Plan.

How do I choose the best dog food for small breed dogs?

Small breed dogs have unique nutritional needs, and it’s important to choose a dog food that meets those needs. Look for dog foods that are specifically formulated for small breed dogs, and that contain high-quality protein sources, such as chicken or fish.

What criteria define the best dog food for large breed dogs?

Large breed dogs have different nutritional needs than small breed dogs, and it’s important to choose a dog food that meets those needs. Look for dog foods that are specifically formulated for large breed dogs, and that contain high-quality protein sources, such as chicken or beef.

Which dog food brands meet AAFCO nutritional standards?

At the AKC, we recommend dog foods that meet AAFCO nutritional standards. Some of the dog food brands that meet these standards include Royal Canin, Hill’s Science Diet, and Purina Pro Plan.

What are the benefits of feeding my dog premium dry food?

Feeding your dog premium dry food has many benefits, including improved dental health, better digestion, and a healthier coat. Premium dry dog foods are also made with high-quality ingredients, which provide your dog with the essential nutrients they need to stay healthy.

How do veterinarians determine which dog food is the healthiest?

Veterinarians use a variety of factors to determine which dog food is the healthiest, including the quality of the ingredients, the nutritional value of the food, and the dog’s specific nutritional needs. They may also take into account the dog’s age, breed, and any health conditions they may have.