Best and Worst Dry Dog Food: Our Top Picks and Reviews

Dry dog food is a popular and convenient option for pet owners who want to provide their furry friends with a balanced diet. It comes in a variety of flavors and formulations, each designed to meet the nutritional needs of different breeds and life stages. However, not all dry dog food is created equal, and some products may contain ingredients that are harmful or unhealthy for dogs.

When looking for the best and worst dry dog food, it’s important to consider several factors. First and foremost, the ingredients list should be carefully examined to ensure that the food contains a high-quality source of protein, such as chicken, beef, or fish. Additionally, the food should be free from artificial preservatives, colors, and flavors, as these can be harmful to dogs.

Other factors to consider include the brand’s reputation, the price point, and any specific dietary requirements or restrictions your dog may have. For example, some dogs may require a grain-free or low-carbohydrate diet due to allergies or health conditions.

In this article, we will explore the best and worst dry dog food options on the market, taking into account all of these important factors. By the end of this guide, you will have a better understanding of what to look for when choosing a dry dog food for your furry companion.

Best and Worst Dry Dog Food

As dog owners, we know how important it is to provide our furry friends with the best possible nutrition. With so many options available, it can be overwhelming to choose the right dry dog food for your pup. That’s why we’ve done the research and compiled a list of the best and worst dry dog food on the market. Our list includes a variety of options to suit different budgets and dietary needs. Read on to find the perfect dry food for your beloved pet.

Stella -amp; Chewy’s Wild Red Dry Dog Food Raw Blend High Protein Grain -amp; Legume Free Red Meat Recipe, 3.5 lb. Bag

If you are looking for a high protein, grain-free dry dog food that is easy to digest and supports your pet’s whole body health, then Stella -amp; Chewy’s Wild Red Dry Dog Food Raw Blend could be a great option for you.

Pros

• The recipe offers a protein-rich taste that dogs crave with the nutrition they deserve, thanks to the freeze-dried raw coating and chunks.
• It includes six poultry-free animal protein sources, such as beef, pork, lamb, bison, venison, and goat.
• The recipe’s protein comes from animal muscle meat, organ meat, and cartilage, providing your pet with whole prey ingredients that help them thrive.

Cons

• Some reviewers have mentioned that there are not many raw chunks in the recipe.
• The price may be higher than other dry dog food options.
• Some dogs may not like the taste of the recipe, as every dog has different preferences.

Stella -amp; Chewy’s Wild Red Dry Dog Food Raw Blend is a great option for pet owners who want to feed their dogs a nutritious and natural diet that supports their overall health. The recipe is easy to digest, grain-free, and includes only the finest ingredients, such as fruits, veggies, chia seeds, and salmon oil.

The recipe is also fortified with vitamins, minerals, and amino acids, providing your dog with a balanced and complete diet. Additionally, the recipe includes fiber and probiotics for digestive support and taurine for heart health.

One of the best things about Stella -amp; Chewy’s Wild Red Dry Dog Food Raw Blend is that it is crafted in the USA, using responsibly sourced, premium ingredients, and a small-batch production process. The brand also offers a satisfaction guarantee, ensuring that you and your pet are happy with the product.

Overall, if you are looking for a high-quality dry dog food that supports your pet’s whole body health, then Stella -amp; Chewy’s Wild Red Dry Dog Food Raw Blend could be an excellent option for you and your furry friend.

Rachael Ray Nutrish Zero Grain Dry Dog Food, Chicken -amp; Sweet Potato Recipe, 26 Pound Bag

If you’re looking for a grain-free dry dog food that’s made with natural ingredients, Rachael Ray Nutrish Zero Grain Chicken -amp; Sweet Potato Recipe Dry Dog Food might be the perfect choice for you and your furry friend.

Pros

• Real chicken is the #1 ingredient, making it a high-quality protein source for your dog.
• Grain-free recipe with no added grains, gluten, or fillers, which is great for dogs with food sensitivities.
• No artificial flavors, colors, or preservatives, making it a healthier choice for your dog.

Cons

• Some dogs might not like the taste of the recipe.
• The kibble size might be too small for larger dogs.
• The price point might be a bit high for some pet owners.

We’ve been feeding our dog Rachael Ray Nutrish Zero Grain Chicken -amp; Sweet Potato Recipe Dry Dog Food for a few months now, and we’re happy with the results. Our dog loves the taste of the food and has had no digestive issues since we switched to this brand. We also appreciate that the recipe is grain-free and made with natural ingredients, which we feel is a healthier choice for our pet.

One thing to note is that the kibble size is a bit small, so it might not be the best choice for larger dogs who need bigger pieces to chew on. Additionally, some pet owners might find the price point to be a bit high, but we feel that the quality of the ingredients justifies the cost. Overall, we would recommend Rachael Ray Nutrish Zero Grain Chicken -amp; Sweet Potato Recipe Dry Dog Food to anyone looking for a high-quality, grain-free dry dog food option.

A Better | Salmon Dry Dog Food | Raw You Can See | High Protein Kibble Freeze Dried Raw Dog Food Salmon 4 Pound (Pack of 1)

If you’re looking for a high-quality dog food that’s packed with protein and made with whole food ingredients, A Better | Salmon Dry Dog Food is a great choice.

Pros

• You can see the quality of the whole food ingredients we use.
• Freeze drying is the best way to preserve natural nutrients with over 61% more nutrients retained relative to dehydration or cooking.
• A complete and balanced nutrition for dogs of all types, including small breeds, puppies, and seniors.

Cons

• The salmon chunks are few but I mix the food after I pour it into the foo.
• My Frenchie was HORRIBLEY stinky a few hours later.
• Over rated kibble with a little bit of other stuff….very little.

A Better | Salmon Dry Dog Food is an excellent choice for pet parents who want to feed their dogs a high-quality diet that’s packed with protein and made with whole food ingredients. The kibble is formulated by a Ph. D. in Animal Nutrition and is AAFCO approved and uses salmon as the #1 ingredient. The freeze-dried raw pieces are made with our bestselling single ingredient freeze-dried wild caught salmon treats with freeze-dried broccoli to boost nutrients such as Omega-3 and fiber.

One of the best things about A Better | Salmon Dry Dog Food is that you can see the quality of the whole food ingredients we use. Our salmon, broccoli, and carrots are simple ingredients so pet parents can see the quality of the whole food ingredients we use. The kibble is formulated by a Ph. D. in Animal Nutrition and is AAFCO approved and uses salmon as the #1 ingredient.

Another great thing about A Better | Salmon Dry Dog Food is that it’s freeze-dried. Freeze drying is the best way to preserve natural nutrients with over 61% more nutrients retained relative to dehydration or cooking. Most importantly you can see the quality whole food ingredients we are using!

A Better | Salmon Dry Dog Food is also a complete and balanced nutrition for dogs of all types, including small breeds, puppies, and seniors. We’ve used ancient grains and probiotics to make an irresistible blend that supports digestion to keep your dog’s stomach happy. Salmon is the #1 ingredient in our kibble and is packed with Omega-3s to support healthier skin and shinier coats that shed less!

Overall, if you’re looking for a high-quality dog food that’s packed with protein and made with whole food ingredients, A Better | Salmon Dry Dog Food is an excellent choice. It’s a bit pricey, but the quality of the ingredients and the freeze-drying process make it well worth the investment.

Rachael Ray Nutrish Premium Natural Dry Dog Food, Real Chicken -amp; Veggies Recipe, 40 Pound Bag

If you’re looking for a healthy and delicious dry dog food, then the Rachael Ray Nutrish Premium Natural Dry Dog Food might be just what you need. This recipe is made with real chicken, peas, and brown rice, which makes it a great source of protein, fiber, and carbohydrates. Plus, a portion of the proceeds is donated to The Rachael Ray Foundation to help animals in need.

Pros

• Real chicken is the #1 ingredient and provides protein for healthy organs and lean muscle mass.
• Peas and brown rice are highly digestible and support healthy digestion.
• No artificial flavors or preservatives, and no poultry by-product meal, fillers, or added wheat or wheat gluten ingredients.

Cons

• Some dogs might not like the taste or texture of the food.
• The kibble size might be too large for smaller dogs.
• The bag is quite large and might be difficult to store.

We’ve been feeding our dog the Rachael Ray Nutrish Premium Natural Dry Dog Food for a few months now, and we’ve been happy with the results. Our dog seems to enjoy the taste and has had no digestive issues. The kibble size is a bit large for our small dog, but we’ve found that breaking it up into smaller pieces helps. The bag is quite large, but we appreciate that it lasts a long time and is a good value for the price.

Overall, we would recommend the Rachael Ray Nutrish Premium Natural Dry Dog Food to anyone looking for a healthy and affordable dry dog food option.

Blue Buffalo Life Protection Formula Small Breed Senior Dry Dog Food, Supports Joint Health and Immunity, Made with Natural Ingredients, Chicken -amp; Brown Rice Recipe, 15-lb. Bag Chicken -amp; Brown Rice 15 Pound (Pack of 1)

If you want to keep your small breed senior dog healthy, this Blue Buffalo Life Protection Formula Small Breed Senior Dry Dog Food is a great choice.

Pros

• Made with real chicken as the #1 ingredient
• Contains Glucosamine and Chondroitin to promote joint health
• Features exclusive antioxidant-rich LifeSource Bits for immune system support

Cons

• May not be suitable for dogs with certain dietary restrictions
• The price may be higher than other dog food brands
• Some dogs may not like the taste

We have been using this Blue Buffalo Life Protection Formula Small Breed Senior Dry Dog Food for a few months now and we are happy with the results. Our small breed senior dog loves the taste and we have noticed an improvement in his overall health. The fact that it is made with real chicken as the #1 ingredient gives us peace of mind that we are feeding him quality food.

The inclusion of Glucosamine and Chondroitin to promote joint health is a great feature for senior dogs who may be experiencing joint issues. Additionally, the exclusive antioxidant-rich LifeSource Bits are a great addition to support our dog’s immune system.

While the price may be higher than other dog food brands, we believe the quality of the ingredients justifies the cost. However, it may not be suitable for dogs with certain dietary restrictions. Some dogs may also not like the taste, so it’s important to introduce it gradually and monitor their reaction.

Overall, we highly recommend the Blue Buffalo Life Protection Formula Small Breed Senior Dry Dog Food for small breed senior dogs who need quality nutrition to stay healthy.

NutriSource Adult Dry Dog Food, Chicken and Rice, 26LB 26 Pound (Pack of 1)

If you’re looking for a grain-inclusive dry dog food that provides balanced nutrition, NutriSource Adult Dry Dog Food is worth considering.

Pros

• The inclusion of prebiotics and probiotics supports healthy digestion.
• Balanced Omega-3 and Omega-6 fatty acids help promote heart health.
• The variety of proteins available makes rotational feeding easy.

Cons

• The price point is higher than some other dry dog foods on the market.
• The kibble is on the larger side, which may be difficult for smaller dogs to eat.
• Some dogs may not like the taste or texture of the food.

We’ve been using NutriSource Adult Dry Dog Food for a few months now, and we’ve been pleased with the results. Our dog’s coat is shinier, and her digestion has been regular. We also appreciate the variety of proteins available, which makes it easy to rotate our dog’s food and keep her interested in mealtime.

One thing to note is that the kibble is on the larger side, which may be difficult for smaller dogs to eat. Additionally, the price point is higher than some other dry dog foods on the market. However, we believe that the quality of the ingredients justifies the cost.

Overall, we recommend NutriSource Adult Dry Dog Food to anyone looking for a grain-inclusive dry dog food that provides balanced nutrition and supports healthy digestion.

Hill’s Science Diet Senior Adult 7 Dog Dry Food, Perfect Digestion, Chicken Recipe, 22 lb. Bag

If you’re looking for a dog food that supports your furry friend’s digestive health, Hill’s Science Diet Senior Adult 7 Dog Dry Food with Perfect Digestion is a great option.

Pros

• Our dog had perfect poop in just one week of eating this food.
• The ActivBiome Technology ingredient blend of prebiotics supports our dog’s unique gut microbiome for healthy digestion and balanced nutrition.
• The high quality chicken is the #1 ingredient, and the whole grain oats and pumpkin provide additional fiber for regularity and healthy stools.

Cons

• The price is a bit high compared to some other dog food brands.
• Some dogs may not like the taste or texture of the food.
• The bag is quite large and may be difficult to store if you have limited space.

We’ve been feeding our senior dog Hill’s Science Diet Perfect Digestion for a few months now and have noticed a significant improvement in her digestive health. Within just one week of switching to this food, her poop was consistently firm and easy to pick up. We love that the ActivBiome Technology ingredient blend of prebiotics supports her unique gut microbiome, and the high quality chicken and whole grain oats and pumpkin provide additional fiber for regularity and healthy stools.

While the price is a bit higher than some other dog food brands, we think it’s worth it for the improved digestive health benefits. However, some dogs may not like the taste or texture of the food, so it’s important to monitor your dog’s reaction when switching to a new food. Additionally, the bag is quite large and may be difficult to store if you have limited space. Overall, we highly recommend Hill’s Science Diet Perfect Digestion for dogs in need of digestive support.

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

If you’re looking for a high-quality dry dog food for your large breed senior dog, then the Blue Buffalo Life Protection Formula Natural Senior Large Breed Dry Dog Food could be a great choice for you. This dog food is made with real chicken as the first ingredient and enhanced with vitamins, minerals, and other nutrients to support your dog’s overall health and well-being.

Pros

• The real meat first ensures high-quality protein from real chicken, which helps your dog build and maintain healthy muscles.
• Formulated with the essential proteins and carbohydrates to help maintain energy requirements for a healthy lifestyle, this dog food also contains glucosamine and chondroitin to help support joint health and overall mobility.
• The precise blend of antioxidants, vitamins, and minerals in the exclusive LifeSource Bits supports immune system health, life stage needs, and a healthy oxidative balance.

Cons

• Some customers have reported that their dogs experienced gas problems after switching to this dog food.
• A few customers have mentioned that the quality of the product has declined recently.
• This dog food contains brown rice, which may not be suitable for dogs with grain sensitivities.

We have been using Blue Buffalo Life Protection Formula Natural Senior Large Breed Dry Dog Food for our senior Great Dane for a few months now, and we are happy with the results. Our dog seems to love the taste, and we have noticed an improvement in his mobility and overall health. The LifeSource Bits in the dog food provide an added boost of antioxidants, vitamins, and minerals, which we believe has helped support our dog’s immune system.

One thing to note is that we did experience some gas problems with our dog after switching to this dog food, but this resolved after a few days. We also noticed that the quality of the product seemed to decline slightly in recent months, but this has not affected our dog’s health or enjoyment of the food.

Overall, we would recommend Blue Buffalo Life Protection Formula Natural Senior Large Breed Dry Dog Food to other pet owners looking for a high-quality dog food for their senior dogs. However, if your dog has grain sensitivities, you may want to consider a different dog food option.

IAMS Healthy Aging Adult Large Breed Dry Dog Food

We highly recommend the IAMS Healthy Aging Adult Large Breed Dry Dog Food for mature and senior dogs with real chicken. This dry dog food is formulated to meet the specific wellness and nutritional needs of your older big dog.

Pros

• The first ingredient is real, farm-raised chicken in this healthy dog food.
• Formulated to support healthy bones and joint health with a balance of key nutrients for large aging dogs.
• Promotes healthy digestion with a blend of fiber and prebiotics.

Cons

• Some dogs may not like the taste of this dog food.
• May cause stomach upset in some dogs.
• The kibble size may be too large for some dogs.

We have been using this dog food for a few months now and have noticed a significant improvement in our senior dog’s overall health. The real chicken as the first ingredient provides high-quality protein for muscle maintenance and repair. The balance of key nutrients for large aging dogs supports healthy bones and joint health, which is crucial for senior dogs.

The blend of fiber and prebiotics promotes healthy digestion and helps maintain a healthy weight. Our dog has had no issues with digestion and has maintained a healthy weight since switching to this dog food. The antioxidants in this dog food also support a strong immune system, which is important for senior dogs.

Overall, we highly recommend the IAMS Healthy Aging Adult Large Breed Dry Dog Food for mature and senior dogs with real chicken. It is specially formulated to meet the specific wellness and nutritional needs of your older big dog.

Stella -amp; Chewy’s Wild Red Dry Dog Food Raw Coated High Protein Grain -amp; Legume Free Ocean Recipe, 3.5 lb. Bag

If you’re looking for a high-quality dry dog food that’s packed with protein and free of unnecessary fillers, Stella -amp; Chewy’s Wild Red Dry Dog Food is definitely worth considering.

Pros

• The freeze-dried raw meat coating gives the kibble a delicious taste that dogs love.
• The recipe is grain-free and made with whole prey ingredients, which makes it easy for dogs of all life stages to digest.
• The formula is fortified with vitamins, minerals, and amino acids to support whole body health.

Cons

• This dog food is on the pricey side compared to some other brands.
• Some reviewers have reported that the kibble doesn’t always look like it’s coated in raw meat.
• The expiration date on the bag can be relatively short, so it’s important to check before purchasing.

We’ve been using Stella -amp; Chewy’s Wild Red Dry Dog Food for a few months now, and our dog absolutely loves it. The freeze-dried raw meat coating gives the kibble a rich, meaty flavor that he can’t seem to get enough of. We also appreciate that the recipe is grain-free and made with whole prey ingredients, which means we don’t have to worry about any unnecessary fillers or artificial ingredients.

One thing to keep in mind is that this dog food is definitely on the pricey side compared to some other brands. However, we feel that the quality of the ingredients and the nutritional value of the formula make it well worth the cost. We also appreciate that Stella -amp; Chewy’s offers a satisfaction guarantee, so we can feel confident in our purchase.

One potential downside to this dog food is that the kibble doesn’t always look like it’s coated in raw meat, despite what the packaging may suggest. However, we haven’t noticed any negative effects on our dog’s enjoyment of the food or his overall health.

Finally, it’s worth noting that the expiration date on the bag can be relatively short compared to some other brands. We recommend checking the date before purchasing and making sure you’ll be able to use the food before it goes bad.

Overall, we highly recommend Stella -amp; Chewy’s Wild Red Dry Dog Food if you’re looking for a high-quality, protein-rich dog food that’s free of unnecessary fillers and artificial ingredients.

Buying Guide

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

Ingredients

The ingredients in your dog’s food are crucial to their overall health and well-being. Look for products that contain high-quality proteins, such as chicken, beef, or fish, as well as whole grains, vegetables, and fruits. Avoid products that contain fillers, by-products, and artificial preservatives.

Nutritional Value

Make sure the product you choose provides your dog with all the essential nutrients they need to maintain good health. Check the label for information on protein, fat, fiber, and other nutrients. Look for products that meet the standards set by the Association of American Feed Control Officials (AAFCO).

Brand Reputation

Choose a brand with a good reputation for producing high-quality dog food. Look for brands that have been in business for a long time and have a history of producing safe and nutritious products. Check online reviews and ratings to see what other dog owners have to say about the brand.

Price

Price is an important consideration when choosing dry dog food. However, don’t let price be the only factor you consider. Look for products that provide good value for money and are within your budget.

Packaging

Choose products that come in resealable bags or containers to keep the food fresh for longer. Avoid products that come in bags that are difficult to reseal or that don’t have airtight seals.

By considering these factors, you can choose the best dry dog food for your furry friend. Remember to consult with your veterinarian if you have any concerns about your dog’s diet or health.

Frequently Asked Questions

Which dry dog food brands are recommended by veterinarians?

We recommend consulting with your veterinarian to determine which dry dog food brands are best suited for your pet’s individual needs. Some popular brands that veterinarians often recommend include Hill’s Science Diet, Royal Canin, and Purina Pro Plan.

What are the top-rated dry dog foods for large breed dogs?

Large breed dogs have specific nutritional requirements, so it’s important to choose a dry dog food that is specifically formulated for their needs. Some of the top-rated dry dog foods for large breed dogs include Royal Canin Large Breed Adult, Blue Buffalo Life Protection Large Breed Adult, and Nutro Wholesome Essentials Large Breed Adult.

Are there specific dry dog food brands that should be avoided?

There are some dry dog food brands that should be avoided due to their low-quality ingredients or lack of nutritional value. Some of these brands include Ol’ Roy, Kibbles ‘n Bits, and Purina Dog Chow. It’s important to carefully read the ingredient list and nutritional information on the packaging before purchasing any dry dog food.

What criteria determine the healthiest dry dog food options?

The healthiest dry dog food options are those that contain high-quality protein sources, whole grains, and a variety of fruits and vegetables. It’s important to choose a dry dog food that is free from artificial colors, flavors, and preservatives, and does not contain any fillers or by-products.

How does Royal Canin Dog Food compare to other premium brands?

Royal Canin is a premium dog food brand that is known for its high-quality ingredients and targeted nutritional formulas. While it may be more expensive than some other premium brands, many pet owners find that the benefits of feeding their dog Royal Canin outweigh the cost.

What are the known health risks associated with the worst dry dog foods?

The worst dry dog foods are those that contain low-quality ingredients, such as meat by-products, fillers, and artificial additives. Feeding your dog these types of foods can lead to a variety of health problems, including obesity, digestive issues, and even cancer. It’s important to choose a high-quality dry dog food that meets your pet’s nutritional needs to ensure their overall health and well-being.