Best and Worst Dog Food Brands: A Comprehensive Review

Dog food is a crucial aspect of pet care. It provides the necessary nutrients for a dog’s growth and development. However, not all dog food brands are created equal. Some are made with high-quality ingredients, while others are made with fillers and by-products. In this article, we will be discussing the best and worst dog food brands.

When it comes to dog food, there are several things to consider. The first thing to look for is the quality of the ingredients. The best dog food brands use high-quality ingredients like real meat, vegetables, and fruits. On the other hand, the worst dog food brands use fillers like corn, wheat, and soy, which provide little to no nutritional value.

Another thing to consider is the type of dog food. There are three main types of dog food: dry, wet, and raw. Dry dog food is the most popular type of dog food and is convenient and affordable. Wet dog food is more expensive but is a good option for dogs with dental problems. Raw dog food is the most expensive and is made with uncooked meat, bones, and vegetables.

When choosing a dog food brand, it is essential to pay attention to the ingredients and the type of dog food. The right dog food brand can make a significant difference in a dog’s health and well-being.

In this article, we will be discussing the best and worst dog food brands based on their ingredients, type of dog food, and overall quality. We spent hours researching and testing various dog food brands to identify the ones that are worth your money and the ones that you should avoid.

Best and Worst Dog Food Brands

As dog owners, we all want to provide the best possible nutrition for our furry friends. However, with so many dog food brands on the market, it can be overwhelming to choose the right one. That’s why we’ve done the research and compiled a list of the best and worst dog food brands based on their ingredients, nutritional value, and customer reviews. Below are our top picks for the best dog food brands that will keep your pup healthy and happy.

Wonder Bound Large Breed Puppy Dry Dog Food

We highly recommend the Wonder Bound Large Breed Puppy Dry Dog Food for its real meat ingredient and its ability to support healthy muscles, joints, bones, and immune system.

Pros

• Real chicken is the #1 ingredient
• Supports healthy muscles, joints, bones, and immune system
• Contains probiotics and fiber for digestive health

Cons

• Some customers reported that it caused their dogs to have bad gas
• One customer reported that their dog did not like the taste
• One customer reported that the kibble size was too big for their dog

We have been using the Wonder Bound Large Breed Puppy Dry Dog Food for our puppy and have seen a noticeable improvement in her overall health. The real chicken ingredient provides a high-quality protein source that is essential for growing puppies. The addition of L-Carnitine and Glucosamine supports lean, healthy muscles and healthy joints and cartilage, respectively. Calcium, phosphorus, and DHA further support strong teeth and bones as well as brain and vision development. The probiotics and fiber in the formula also help maintain digestive health and regularity.

While most customers are satisfied with the product, some have reported that it caused their dogs to have bad gas. One customer also reported that their dog did not like the taste of the food. Additionally, some customers found the kibble size to be too big for their dogs, which may be an issue for smaller breeds.

Overall, we believe that the Wonder Bound Large Breed Puppy Dry Dog Food is a great choice for pet owners who are looking for a high-quality, affordable dog food that provides all the necessary nutrients for their growing puppies.

Wellness Complete Health Small Breed Dry Dog Food With Grains

If you’re looking for a high-quality dog food that is made with natural ingredients, then Wellness Complete Health Small Breed Dry Dog Food With Grains is a great option. Our team of veterinarians and scientists have crafted this food to provide nutrition for a lifetime of wellbeing. Here’s what we found after using this food:

Pros

• Made with carefully chosen, authentic ingredients for everyday health
• Optimal balance of nutrient-rich whole foods to fulfill the unique health needs of your dog
• Supported by omega fatty acids, antioxidants, glucosamine, probiotics and taurine for a healthy heart

Cons

• Some dogs may not like the taste
• Can be expensive compared to other dog foods
• May not be suitable for dogs with certain dietary restrictions

We found that Wellness Complete Health Small Breed Dry Dog Food With Grains is a great option for dogs of all ages and sizes. The food is made with high-quality protein and wholesome grains like rice, which provides the optimal calorie levels for healthy body weight. Additionally, the food is made in the USA using only the finest globally sourced ingredients.

One of the things we liked most about this food is that it is designed to support the unique health needs of smaller dogs through nutrient-rich whole foods. The food is also supported by omega fatty acids, antioxidants, glucosamine, probiotics and taurine for a healthy heart.

Another great thing about this food is that it comes in a variety of recipes, including lamb, chicken, salmon, and whitefish, so there is something for every dog. Plus, the food is available in both grained and grain-free options.

Overall, we would highly recommend Wellness Complete Health Small Breed Dry Dog Food With Grains to any dog owner looking for a high-quality, natural dog food that is designed to support their dog’s unique health needs.

Eagle Pack Natural Dry Dog Food, Lamb -amp; Rice, 30-Pound Bag

If you’re looking for a high-quality dog food brand that can help support your furry friend’s overall health, Eagle Pack Natural Dry Dog Food is worth considering.

Pros

• Optimal energy and performance
• Whole body health
• Trusted and true

Cons

• Expensive
• Some dogs may not like the taste
• May not be suitable for dogs with certain health conditions

We recently tried this dog food brand for our adult dog, and we were impressed with the results. The optimal protein, fat, and carbohydrate levels helped to improve our dog’s energy levels, and we noticed a significant improvement in his overall performance. Additionally, the glucosamine in the food helped to support his joint health, while the omega fatty acids improved his skin and coat health. The antioxidants also helped to promote a strong immune system, which is always a plus.

One of the things we loved about this brand is that it’s made with wholesome, natural ingredients that are chosen specifically for their nutritional benefits. We felt good knowing that we were feeding our dog food that was not only delicious but also healthy. And, because it’s made in the USA in a state-of-the-art facility, we could trust that the food was of the highest quality.

However, we did notice that this brand is a bit on the expensive side compared to some other dog food brands. Additionally, some dogs may not like the taste, so it’s important to introduce this food gradually and monitor your dog’s reaction. Finally, while this food is suitable for most adult dogs, it may not be suitable for dogs with certain health conditions, so it’s always best to check with your veterinarian before making any changes to your dog’s diet.

Overall, we highly recommend Eagle Pack Natural Dry Dog Food for anyone looking for a high-quality dog food brand that can help support their furry friend’s overall health.

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 dog food brand that provides balanced nutrition to your furry friend, Blue Buffalo Life Protection Formula Natural Adult Dry Dog Food is a great choice. We highly recommend this product for its natural ingredients and essential proteins and carbohydrates that help meet the energy needs of adult dogs.

Pros

• Real meat as the first ingredient
• Exclusive, antioxidant-rich LifeSource Bits to support a healthy immune system
• Contains no chicken (or poultry) by-product meals, corn, wheat, soy, artificial flavors or preservatives

Cons

• Slightly more expensive than other dog food brands
• Some dogs may not like the taste
• May cause digestive issues for some dogs

We have tried Blue Buffalo Life Protection Formula Natural Adult Dry Dog Food with our furry friend, and we were impressed with the results. Our dog loved the taste, and we noticed a significant improvement in his coat and skin health. The formula is made with the finest natural ingredients, including real chicken, whole grains, garden veggies, and fruit. Additionally, the formula includes exclusive, antioxidant-rich LifeSource Bits, which are a precise blend of antioxidants, vitamins, and minerals carefully selected by holistic veterinarians and animal nutritionists to support immune system health, life stage needs, and a healthy oxidative balance.

We appreciate that this dog food brand contains no chicken (or poultry) by-product meals, corn, wheat, soy, artificial flavors, or preservatives. This makes it a natural dog food that is safe and healthy for our furry friend. However, we did notice that Blue Buffalo Life Protection Formula Natural Adult Dry Dog Food is slightly more expensive than other dog food brands. Also, some dogs may not like the taste, and it may cause digestive issues for some dogs.

Overall, we highly recommend Blue Buffalo Life Protection Formula Natural Adult Dry Dog Food for its natural ingredients, essential proteins and carbohydrates, and exclusive, antioxidant-rich LifeSource Bits. If you’re looking for a high-quality dog food brand that provides balanced nutrition to your furry friend, this product is definitely worth considering.

Blue Buffalo Life Protection Formula Natural Adult Dry Dog Food, Lamb and Brown Rice 34-lb Lamb -amp; Brown Rice 34 Pound (Pack of 1)

If you are looking for a natural dog food that is formulated for the health and well-being of adult dogs, then Blue Buffalo Life Protection Formula Natural Adult Dry Dog Food, Lamb and Brown Rice is worth considering.

Pros

• Blue Buffalo foods always feature real meat as the first ingredient.
• Contains essential proteins and carbohydrates to help meet the energy needs of adult dogs.
• Includes exclusive, antioxidant-rich LifeSource Bits to support a healthy immune system in your adult dog.

Cons

• Some dogs may not like the taste.
• Slightly more expensive than other dog food brands.
• May cause digestive issues in some dogs.

We have been using Blue Buffalo Life Protection Formula Natural Adult Dry Dog Food, Lamb and Brown Rice for a while now and have noticed a significant improvement in our dog’s health. The high-quality protein from real lamb helps our dog build and maintain healthy muscles, while the wholesome whole grains, garden veggies, and fruit provide a balanced nutrition.

One of the things we love about this dog food is that it contains no chicken (or poultry) by-product meals, no corn, wheat, or soy, and no artificial flavors or preservatives. This makes it a natural dog food that we can both feel great about.

The antioxidant-rich LifeSource Bits in the formula are carefully selected by holistic veterinarians and animal nutritionists to support immune system health, life stage needs, and a healthy oxidative balance. This is a great feature that helps our dog thrive.

While our dog loves this dog food, we have heard that some dogs do not like the taste. Additionally, it is slightly more expensive than other dog food brands, which may be a concern for some pet owners. Finally, some dogs may experience digestive issues when transitioning to this dog food.

Overall, we highly recommend Blue Buffalo Life Protection Formula Natural Adult Dry Dog Food, Lamb and Brown Rice for pet owners who are looking for a natural and high-quality dog food for their adult dog.

IAMS Advanced Health Adult Healthy Digestion Dry Dog Food with Real Chicken, 27 lb. Bag

If you’re looking for a dog food that supports digestive health, IAMS Advanced Health Adult Healthy Digestion Dry Dog Food with Real Chicken is definitely worth considering.

Pros

• Complete and balanced meal with essential nutrients
• Supports regularity and healthy stools
• Made with real farm-raised chicken as the #1 ingredient

Cons

• Trace amounts of wheat, artificial flavors, or preservatives may be present due to potential cross-contact during manufacturing
• Some dogs may not like the taste
• May cause digestive issues in some dogs

We’ve been feeding our dog IAMS Advanced Health Adult Healthy Digestion Dry Dog Food with Real Chicken for a few months now and have noticed a significant improvement in his digestion. The blend of natural fiber and prebiotics helps support regularity and healthy stools, which is a huge plus.

We also appreciate that this dog food is made with real farm-raised chicken as the #1 ingredient and contains essential nutrients for a complete and balanced meal. Our dog seems to really enjoy the taste as well.

However, we do want to note that trace amounts of wheat, artificial flavors, or preservatives may be present due to potential cross-contact during manufacturing. Additionally, some dogs may not like the taste or may experience digestive issues while eating this food.

Overall, we highly recommend giving IAMS Advanced Health Adult Healthy Digestion Dry Dog Food with Real Chicken a try if you’re looking for a dog food that supports digestive health. Just be sure to monitor your dog’s reaction and consult with your vet if you have any concerns.

IAMS Proactive Health Healthy Weight Control Adult Dry Dog Food with Real Chicken, 15 lb. Bag

If you’re looking for a tasty dry dog food recipe that also provides essential nutrients, carbohydrates, and protein for your dog, then IAMS Proactive Health Healthy Weight Control Adult Dry Dog Food with Real Chicken is a great option to consider.

Pros

• Contains premium nutrition with L-carnitine and less fat to support healthy weight in adult dogs
• Wholesome grains provide essential nutrients and carbohydrates for healthy energy
• Supports strong, firm muscles with protein sourced from chicken and egg

Cons

• Some customers reported that this product gave their dogs gas
• May not be suitable for dogs with certain dietary restrictions or allergies
• Some dogs may not like the taste or texture of the kibble

We’ve been using IAMS Proactive Health Healthy Weight Control Adult Dry Dog Food with Real Chicken for a few months now and have noticed a positive change in our dog’s weight and energy levels. The kibble is easy to serve and has a pleasant smell that our dog seems to enjoy.

One of the biggest pros of this dog food is that it contains premium nutrition with L-carnitine and less fat to support healthy weight in adult dogs. We’ve noticed that our dog has lost a few pounds since we switched to this product, which is a great sign that it’s working as intended.

In addition to helping with weight control, this dog food also provides wholesome grains that offer essential nutrients and carbohydrates for healthy energy. We’ve noticed that our dog has more energy throughout the day and seems to be more active and playful.

Lastly, this dog food supports strong, firm muscles with protein sourced from chicken and egg. We’ve noticed that our dog’s muscles seem to be more toned and defined since we started using this product.

Overall, we highly recommend IAMS Proactive Health Healthy Weight Control Adult Dry Dog Food with Real Chicken for anyone looking for a high-quality dog food that provides essential nutrients and helps with weight control.

IAMS Adult Healthy Weight Control Large Breed Dry Dog Food with Real Chicken, 29.1 lb. Bag Chicken 3.64 Gallon (Pack of 1)

If you’re looking for a dog food that can help your large breed dog maintain a healthy weight, IAMS Adult Healthy Weight Control Large Breed Dry Dog Food with Real Chicken is definitely worth considering.

Pros

• Made with real farm-raised chicken
• Contains 17% less fat than IAMS Minichunks recipe
• Features wholesome blend of fibers and natural prebiotics for healthy digestion

Cons

• Some dogs may not like the taste
• Not suitable for dogs with certain dietary needs
• Can be expensive compared to other dog food brands

We’ve been using IAMS Adult Healthy Weight Control Large Breed Dry Dog Food with Real Chicken for a few months now and we’ve seen a noticeable improvement in our dog’s weight and overall health. The real chicken flavor seems to be a hit with our dog and we appreciate that it contains 17% less fat than IAMS Minichunks recipe, which helps with weight management.

One of the things we really like about this dog food is that it features a wholesome blend of fibers and natural prebiotics for healthy digestion. We’ve noticed that our dog’s bowel movements are more regular and healthy since we switched to this food.

However, we do recognize that this dog food may not be suitable for all dogs. It’s important to check with your veterinarian before switching to a new dog food, especially if your dog has certain dietary needs. Additionally, this dog food can be more expensive compared to other brands, so it may not be the best choice for those on a tight budget.

Overall, we highly recommend IAMS Adult Healthy Weight Control Large Breed Dry Dog Food with Real Chicken for those looking for a high-quality dog food that can help their large breed dog maintain a healthy weight.

Rachael Ray Nutrish Zero Grain Dry Dog Food

If you’re looking for a grain-free dry dog food that is made with real chicken and natural ingredients, then you should try out the Rachael Ray Nutrish Zero Grain Chicken -amp; Sweet Potato Recipe.

Pros

• The recipe contains real chicken as the #1 ingredient, providing a delicious taste for your furry friend.
• The grain-free formula is ideal for dogs with grain allergies and sensitivities.
• The recipe is free from artificial flavors, colors, and preservatives.

Cons

• Some customers have reported that the kibble size is too small for larger dogs.
• The price may be higher than other dog food brands.
• The recipe may not be suitable for dogs with certain dietary restrictions.

We recently tried out the Rachael Ray Nutrish Zero Grain Chicken -amp; Sweet Potato Recipe for our dog, and we were impressed with the quality of the ingredients. Our dog loved the taste of the real chicken and sweet potato, and we were happy to see that the recipe was free from artificial additives.

One thing to note is that the kibble size may be too small for larger dogs, but this wasn’t an issue for our dog. Additionally, the price may be higher than other dog food brands, but we believe that the quality of the ingredients justifies the cost.

Overall, we would recommend the Rachael Ray Nutrish Zero Grain Chicken -amp; Sweet Potato Recipe to dog owners who are looking for a high-quality, grain-free dog food that is made with natural ingredients.

ORIJEN REGIONAL RED Dry Dog Food

We highly recommend ORIJEN REGIONAL RED Dry Dog Food for those looking to provide their furry friends with a high-quality, protein-rich diet. This grain-free and poultry-free dog food is made with fresh or raw ingredients, providing your dog with the most succulent and nutrient-rich parts of the prey.

Pros

• Made with 85% fresh or raw quality animal ingredients
• Provides antioxidants and vitamin E to support healthy immune function
• Naturally occurring Omega-3 and Omega-6 fatty acids support healthy skin and a shiny coat

Cons

• Expensive compared to other dog food brands
• Not suitable for large size dogs (70 lb. or more as an adult)
• Produced in a facility that also processes grains

We have personally used ORIJEN REGIONAL RED Dry Dog Food and have noticed a significant improvement in our dog’s coat and overall health. The first five ingredients are fresh or raw farm-raised beef, wild boar, lamb, pork, and beef liver, providing a strong daily source of protein, vitamins, and minerals. The ORIJEN WholePrey ingredients, including nourishing organs, give your dog the most succulent and nutrient-rich parts of the prey.

Our dog loves the freeze-dried coating, which provides a burst of flavor that dogs instinctively crave. We appreciate that the fresh ingredients are delivered refrigerated and the raw ingredients are delivered frozen, ensuring that our dog is getting the best quality food possible.

While ORIJEN REGIONAL RED Dry Dog Food is more expensive than other brands, we believe that the quality of the ingredients justifies the cost. Overall, we highly recommend ORIJEN REGIONAL RED Dry Dog Food for those looking to provide their furry friends with a high-quality, protein-rich diet.

Buying Guide

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

Ingredients

The first thing to consider is the quality of the ingredients. Look for brands that use high-quality, whole food ingredients such as real meat, vegetables, and fruits. Avoid brands that use fillers and by-products, as these can be harmful to your dog’s health.

Nutritional Value

The nutritional value of the food is also important. Look for brands that meet the nutritional standards set by the Association of American Feed Control Officials (AAFCO). This ensures that the food provides a balanced diet for your dog.

Allergies and Sensitivities

If your dog has allergies or sensitivities, it’s important to choose a brand that caters to their specific needs. Look for brands that offer limited ingredient options or hypoallergenic formulas.

Price

Price is also a consideration. While it’s important to choose a high-quality brand, it’s also important to choose one that fits within your budget. Compare prices and look for deals and discounts to get the best value for your money.

Packaging

Finally, consider the packaging of the food. Look for brands that use high-quality, airtight packaging to keep the food fresh and prevent contamination.

By considering these factors, you can choose the best dog food brand for your furry friend.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the top 5 healthiest dog food brands currently on the market?

We recommend the following dog food brands for their high-quality ingredients and balanced nutrition:

1. Hill’s Science Diet
2. Blue Buffalo Life Protection Formula
3. Wellness Complete Health
4. Orijen Adult Dog Food
5. Royal Canin Breed Health Nutrition

Which dog food brands are commonly recommended by veterinarians?

Veterinarians often recommend Hill’s Science Diet, Royal Canin, and Purina Pro Plan for their high-quality ingredients and balanced nutrition. These brands also offer specialized formulas for dogs with specific health needs.

Are there any dog food brands that have been recalled for safety issues?

Yes, there have been several dog food brands that have been recalled due to safety issues. Some notable examples include:

• Diamond Pet Foods
• Hill’s Science Diet
• Blue Buffalo
• Nutro

How do I identify dog food brands that I should avoid?

To identify dog food brands that you should avoid, look for the following red flags:

• Artificial preservatives, colors, and flavors
• Low-quality protein sources (e.g. meat by-products)
• High levels of carbohydrates (e.g. corn, wheat, soy)
• Recalls or safety issues in the brand’s history

What are the benefits of feeding my dog Royal Canin or ORIJEN brands?

Royal Canin and ORIJEN are both high-quality dog food brands that offer balanced nutrition and high-quality ingredients. Royal Canin offers specialized formulas for dogs with specific health needs, while ORIJEN uses fresh, regional ingredients to provide a biologically appropriate diet for dogs.

How does Blue Buffalo dog food compare to other premium brands?

Blue Buffalo is a popular premium dog food brand that offers a wide variety of formulas for dogs with different dietary needs. While Blue Buffalo uses high-quality ingredients, some experts have raised concerns about the brand’s marketing claims and ingredient sourcing. Overall, Blue Buffalo is a good option for pet owners looking for a premium dog food brand, but it’s important to do your research and choose a formula that meets your dog’s specific nutritional needs.