Best Dog Food According to FDA: Top Picks for Your Furry Friend

Dog food is an essential component of your pet’s diet and overall health. With so many options available, it can be challenging to choose the right one for your furry friend. The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) regulates pet food to ensure that it meets certain safety standards, and it is essential to consider their recommendations when selecting dog food.

When it comes to choosing the best dog food, it is crucial to pay attention to the ingredients and nutritional value. The FDA recommends that dog food should contain a balanced amount of protein, fat, and carbohydrates to meet your pet’s nutritional needs. Additionally, the ingredients should be easily digestible, and the food should be free from harmful substances like toxins and contaminants.

To help you in your search for the best dog food, we have researched and tested various options to identify the ones that meet the FDA’s standards. We have considered factors like the quality of ingredients, nutritional value, and safety to provide you with a comprehensive guide to the best dog food according to the FDA.

Best FDA-Approved Dog Food

As pet owners, we understand the importance of providing our furry friends with the best possible nutrition. That’s why we’ve researched and compiled a list of the best dog food options that are not only delicious but also meet the FDA’s standards for safety and quality. Our top picks are sure to keep your pup healthy and happy for years to come. Check them out below.

JustFoodForDogs DIY Nutrient Blend for Homemade Dog Food, Turkey -amp; Whole Wheat Macaroni Recipe

We highly recommend the JustFoodForDogs DIY Nutrient Blend for Homemade Dog Food, Turkey -amp; Whole Wheat Macaroni Recipe. This product is a great choice for pet owners who want to make their own dog food with human-grade ingredients.

Pros

• The Nutrient Blend is veterinarian-developed and formulated to meet AAFCO recommendations.
• The recipe includes whole food ingredients like ground turkey, whole wheat macaroni, broccoli, zucchini, carrots, turkey liver, and cranberries.
• The Cooking Guide included with the Nutrient Blend provides step-by-step instructions for making the recipe.

Cons

• The Nutrient Blend is intended for intermittent or supplemental feeding and does not constitute a balanced meal on its own.
• The recipe requires purchasing additional ingredients, which may be inconvenient for some pet owners.
• The Nutrient Blend is only available in one flavor (Turkey -amp; Whole Wheat Macaroni).

We have been using this product for several months and have been very pleased with the results. Our dog loves the taste of the recipe and we feel good knowing that we are feeding him high-quality, human-grade ingredients. The Nutrient Blend makes it easy to ensure that our homemade dog food is nutritionally balanced and meets the AAFCO recommendations for adult dogs.

One thing to keep in mind is that the Nutrient Blend is intended for intermittent or supplemental feeding and does not constitute a balanced meal on its own. This means that you will need to purchase additional ingredients to make the recipe. While this may be inconvenient for some pet owners, we have found that the Cooking Guide included with the Nutrient Blend provides clear and easy-to-follow instructions for purchasing and preparing the ingredients.

Overall, we highly recommend the JustFoodForDogs DIY Nutrient Blend for Homemade Dog Food, Turkey -amp; Whole Wheat Macaroni Recipe to pet owners who want to make their own dog food with high-quality, human-grade ingredients.

IAMS Advanced Health Adult Healthy Digestion Dry Dog Food with Real Chicken, 6 lb. Bag Chicken 96 Fl Oz (Pack of 1)

We highly recommend purchasing the IAMS Advanced Health Adult Healthy Digestion Dry Dog Food with Real Chicken as it is a complete and balanced meal that supports your dog’s whole-body health with essential nutrients.

Pros

• This highly digestible formula supports regularity and healthy stools with a blend of natural fiber and prebiotics, which means your dog will have an ideal poop in just 10 days.
• Made with real farm-raised chicken as the #1 ingredient, this dry kibble is formulated without wheat, artificial flavors or preservatives, making it a healthy option for your pup.
• IAMS Advanced Health Healthy Digestion is formulated with fiber from beet pulp and prebiotics to support nutrient absorption, which means your dog will feel satisfied and full of energy for everyday activities.

Cons

• Trace amounts of wheat, artificial flavors, or preservatives may be present due to potential cross-contact during manufacturing, which may not be suitable for dogs with severe allergies.
• It may be a bit expensive compared to other dog food brands, but the quality of the ingredients and the health benefits it provides are worth the price.
• Some dogs may not like the taste of this dog food, but it all depends on their individual preferences.

We’ve been using IAMS Advanced Health Adult Healthy Digestion Dry Dog Food with Real Chicken for a few months now, and we’ve noticed a significant improvement in our dog’s digestive health. His stools are more regular, and he has more energy throughout the day. We also appreciate the fact that this dog food is made with real chicken and doesn’t contain any artificial flavors or preservatives, which gives us peace of mind knowing that we’re feeding our dog a healthy and nutritious meal.

Overall, we highly recommend this dog food to anyone looking for a healthy option to support their dog’s whole-body health. With tailored nutrition from IAMS dog food, you can help keep your dog healthy, happy, and playful for life.

IAMS Advanced Health Adult Healthy Digestion Dry Dog Food with Real Chicken

We highly recommend IAMS Advanced Health Adult Healthy Digestion Dry Dog Food with Real Chicken for pet owners who are looking for a complete and balanced meal that supports whole-body health with essential nutrients.

Pros

• The recipe contains prebiotics and guaranteed live probiotics that help support regularity and healthy stools with a blend of natural fiber.
• Made with real farm-raised chicken as the #1 ingredient, this recipe is formulated without wheat, artificial flavors, or artificial preservatives.
• Fiber from beet pulp and prebiotics in this recipe support nutrient absorption.

Cons

• Some dogs may not like the taste or texture of the kibble.
• The bag size may not be suitable for larger breeds or households with multiple dogs.
• The price point may be higher than other dog food brands.

We have been using IAMS Advanced Health Adult Healthy Digestion Dry Dog Food with Real Chicken for our dog and have noticed significant improvements in her digestive health. The kibble is highly digestible, which supports regularity and healthy stools with a blend of natural fiber and prebiotics. Our dog also loves the taste of the kibble and has not experienced any adverse reactions.

The recipe is made with real, farm-raised chicken as the #1 ingredient, which is a great source of protein for dogs. It is also formulated without wheat, artificial flavors, or artificial preservatives, making it a healthier option for our furry friend. The fiber from beet pulp and prebiotics in this recipe support nutrient absorption, which is important for maintaining overall health.

However, some dogs may not like the taste or texture of the kibble, so it may take some time to transition them to this brand. Additionally, the bag size may not be suitable for larger breeds or households with multiple dogs, as it only comes in a 13.5 lb. bag. Finally, the price point may be higher than other dog food brands, which could be a deterrent for some pet owners.

Overall, we highly recommend IAMS Advanced Health Adult Healthy Digestion Dry Dog Food with Real Chicken for pet owners who want to support their dog’s digestive health and overall well-being.

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

We highly recommend the Purina ONE Natural Lamb and Rice Formula With Added Vitamins, Minerals and Nutrients dry dog food for those who want to feed their dogs high-quality ingredients according to the FDA.

Pros

• The first ingredient in this high protein dog food kibble is real lamb, which helps support strong muscles, including a healthy heart.
• This lamb dog food formula supports a microbiome balance and is made with prebiotic fiber for dogs to help maintain your dog’s gut health and provide immune support.
• Natural sources of glucosamine for dogs support joint health, vitamins A and E promote bright eyes, and omega-6 fatty acids, vitamins and minerals nourish a shiny coat and healthy skin.

Cons

• Some dogs may not like the taste of lamb.
• The kibble size may be too large for small dogs.
• Some customers have reported issues with the packaging.

We have been using Purina ONE Natural Lamb and Rice Formula With Added Vitamins, Minerals and Nutrients dry dog food for a few months now and have noticed a significant improvement in our dog’s coat and overall health. The real lamb as the first ingredient provides ample protein for our dog’s muscles and the added vitamins, minerals, and nutrients guarantee that our dog is receiving complete and balanced nutrition.

We appreciate that this dog food is made with prebiotic fiber and supports a microbiome balance, which is crucial for maintaining our dog’s gut health and providing immune support. We have also noticed an improvement in our dog’s joint health thanks to the natural sources of glucosamine in this formula.

While our dog loves the taste of this food, we understand that some dogs may not like the taste of lamb. Additionally, the kibble size may be too large for small dogs. We have also heard some complaints about the packaging, but have not experienced any issues ourselves.

Overall, we highly recommend the Purina ONE Natural Lamb and Rice Formula With Added Vitamins, Minerals and Nutrients dry dog food for those who want to provide their dogs with high-quality ingredients and complete and balanced nutrition.

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 high-quality dog food that is made with ethically and sustainably sourced meats and seafood, then ZIWI Peak Air-Dried Dog Food is a great option. With its limited ingredient recipe and gentle air-drying process, this dog food is both safe and nutritious for your furry friend.

Pros

• The centuries-old slow and gentle air drying method naturally preserves food without artificial fillers while retaining nutrients and maximizing flavor.
• Recipes made up of 96% fresh meat, organs, and bones, as well as powerhouse superfoods including green mussels, organic kelp, and green tripe.
• Provides higher Taurine levels than nutritionally required to promote heart health.

Cons

• Expensive compared to other dog foods on the market.
• Some dogs may not like the taste or texture of the air-dried food.
• The lamb flavor may not be suitable for dogs with lamb allergies.

We’ve been feeding our dog ZIWI Peak Air-Dried Dog Food for a few weeks now, and we’ve noticed a significant improvement in his overall health and energy levels. The limited ingredient recipe has helped to alleviate his allergies, and the high protein content has helped him maintain a healthy weight.

One thing we love about this dog food is the air-drying process, which naturally preserves the food without any artificial fillers. This means that our dog is getting all the nutrients he needs without any harmful additives. Plus, the gentle air-drying process helps to retain the flavor of the food, which our dog seems to love.

While ZIWI Peak Air-Dried Dog Food is more expensive than other dog foods on the market, we believe that the quality of the ingredients and the gentle air-drying process make it worth the price. Plus, because the food is so nutrient-dense, we’ve found that we need to feed our dog less, which has helped to reduce his stool volume.

Overall, we highly recommend ZIWI Peak Air-Dried Dog Food to anyone looking for a high-quality, nutritious dog food that is made with ethically and sustainably sourced ingredients.

NUTRO ULTRA Adult High Protein Natural Dry Dog Food with a Trio of Proteins from Chicken, Lamb and Salmon, 15 lb. Bag 15 Pound (Pack of 1)

If you’re looking for a high-quality dog food that contains a variety of protein sources and superfoods, NUTRO ULTRA Adult Dry Dog Food may be the right choice for your furry friend.

Pros

• The trio of protein from chicken, lamb, and salmon provides a complete and balanced nutrition for adult dogs.
• The blend of 15 vibrant superfoods, like coconut, chia, kale, and blueberries, ensures that your dog gets all the essential nutrients.
• Made with no chicken by-product meal, corn, soy, or wheat, and no artificial flavors, colors, or preservatives.

Cons

• Some dogs may not like the taste of the food.
• The price may be higher than other dog food brands.
• The bag size may not be suitable for larger dogs.

We’ve been using NUTRO ULTRA Adult Dry Dog Food for a few months now, and we’re impressed with the quality of the ingredients. The food is made with high-quality protein sources, and the superfoods ensure that our dog gets all the essential nutrients. We also appreciate that the food is free from artificial flavors, colors, and preservatives, which gives us peace of mind knowing that we’re feeding our dog a healthy and nutritious diet.

One thing to keep in mind is that some dogs may not like the taste of the food, so it’s important to introduce it slowly and monitor your dog’s reaction. Additionally, the price may be higher than other dog food brands, but we believe that the quality of the ingredients justifies the cost. Finally, the bag size may not be suitable for larger dogs, so you may need to purchase multiple bags if you have a bigger furry friend.

Overall, we highly recommend NUTRO ULTRA Adult Dry Dog Food for anyone looking for a high-quality dog food that contains a variety of protein sources and superfoods.

NUTRO ULTRA Adult Small Breed High Protein Natural Dry Dog Food with a Trio of Proteins from Chicken, Lamb and Salmon, 15 lb. Bag Lamb,Chicken,Salmon 15 Pound (Pack of 1)

If you are looking for a high-quality dog food that is packed with nutrients and flavor, NUTRO ULTRA Small Breed Adult Dry Dog Food is a great option. Our dogs absolutely love this food, and we love that it is made with real ingredients and contains no artificial preservatives, flavors, or colors.

Pros

• Made with a trio of high-quality proteins from chicken, lamb, and salmon
• Contains a blend of 15 superfoods like coconut, chia, kale, and blueberries
• Free from chicken by-product meal, corn, wheat, or soy protein

Cons

• May be more expensive than some other dog food options
• May not be suitable for dogs with certain dietary restrictions
• Some dogs may not like the taste or texture of the kibble

We have been feeding our small breed dogs NUTRO ULTRA Small Breed Adult Dry Dog Food for several years now, and we have seen a noticeable improvement in their overall health and well-being. The kibble is easy for them to chew and digest, and they always seem excited to eat it.

One of the things we love about NUTRO ULTRA Small Breed Adult Dry Dog Food is that it is made with a trio of high-quality proteins from chicken, lamb, and salmon. This provides our dogs with a balanced and complete source of nutrition, and we feel good knowing that they are getting the nutrients they need to thrive.

Another great thing about this dog food is that it contains a blend of 15 superfoods like coconut, chia, kale, and blueberries. These ingredients provide additional vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants that support our dogs’ overall health and immune system.

While NUTRO ULTRA Small Breed Adult Dry Dog Food may be more expensive than some other dog food options, we feel that the quality and nutritional value of this food is worth the investment. Additionally, it is free from chicken by-product meal, corn, wheat, or soy protein, which gives us peace of mind knowing that we are feeding our dogs only the best ingredients.

Overall, we highly recommend NUTRO ULTRA Small Breed Adult Dry Dog Food to any dog owner who is looking for a high-quality, nutritious, and delicious dog food option for their furry friend.

IAMS Proactive Health Minichunks Adult Dry Dog Food with Real Chicken and Whole Grains, 15 lb. Bag

If you’re looking for a healthy and tasty dry dog food that will keep your furry friend happy and healthy, we highly recommend IAMS Proactive Health Minichunks Adult Dry Dog Food with Real Chicken and Whole Grains.

Pros

• Supports healthy digestion with natural fiber and prebiotics
• Formulated to support whole-body health, including 7 essential nutrients for a healthy heart
• Enriched with antioxidants to help maintain a strong immune system

Cons

• May not be suitable for dogs with specific dietary needs or restrictions
• Some dogs may not enjoy the taste or texture of the smaller kibble size
• May be more expensive than other dog food brands

We’ve been using IAMS Proactive Health Minichunks for our dog for a few months now, and we’ve noticed a significant improvement in his overall health and energy levels. The smaller kibble size is perfect for our particular pup, and he seems to really enjoy the taste and texture of the food.

One of the things we love about this dog food is the fact that it supports healthy digestion with a tailored blend of natural fiber and prebiotics. We’ve noticed a significant improvement in our dog’s digestive health since switching to this food, and he seems to have less stomach upset and digestive issues.

In addition to supporting healthy digestion, this dog food is also formulated to support whole-body health, including 7 essential nutrients to help support a healthy heart. We feel confident knowing that our dog is getting all the nutrients he needs to stay healthy and happy.

Finally, we appreciate that this dog food is enriched with antioxidants to help maintain a strong immune system. We know that our dog is getting the nutrition he needs to stay healthy and happy for years to come.

Overall, we highly recommend IAMS Proactive Health Minichunks Adult Dry Dog Food with Real Chicken and Whole Grains. It’s a high-quality dog food that will keep your furry friend healthy, happy, and playful for life.

WAG Salmon and Brown Rice Dog Food

If you’re looking for a dog food that’s high quality and meets FDA standards, we recommend the WAG Salmon and Brown Rice Dog Food.

Pros

• This dog food contains sustainably raised American salmon as its #1 ingredient, making it a great source of protein for your dog.
• It doesn’t contain any by-product meal, corn, wheat, soy, artificial colors, flavors, or preservatives, which means you can feel good about what you’re feeding your furry friend.
• The added calcium and phosphorus help support bone and tooth health, while the guaranteed glucosamine supports joint health. Plus, the added antioxidants and DHA support immune system and brain function.

Cons

• Some dogs may need a gradual transition to this food to avoid dietary upsets.
• The price may be higher than some other dog food brands.
• The packaging may vary from what is shown in the images.

We’ve been using this dog food for a few weeks now, and we’ve noticed that our dog seems to have more energy and a shinier coat. We appreciate that this food is vet-formulated and made in a family-owned facility in California. The salmon and brown rice flavor is a hit with our pup, and we like that it’s made with high-quality ingredients that we can trust.

Overall, we highly recommend the WAG Salmon and Brown Rice Dog Food for anyone looking for a high-quality dog food that meets FDA standards.

Nature’s Recipe Easy to Digest Dry Dog Food

If you’re looking for a high-quality dog food that’s easy on your wallet, Nature’s Recipe Easy-to-Digest Chicken, Barley -amp; Brown Recipe is a great option.

Pros

• Made with purposefully chosen ingredients
• Contains prebiotics and fiber for healthy digestion
• No artificial colors, preservatives, or flavors

Cons

• Some dogs may not like the taste
• Not suitable for dogs with certain dietary restrictions
• May not be suitable for dogs with severe digestive issues

We’ve been using Nature’s Recipe for a few months now, and we’ve noticed a significant improvement in our dog’s digestion and overall health. The prebiotics and fiber in the food have helped regulate his bowel movements, and the quality protein from real chicken has helped maintain his muscle strength.

One thing to keep in mind is that some dogs may not like the taste of this food, so it may take some time to get them used to it. Additionally, if your dog has certain dietary restrictions or severe digestive issues, this food may not be the best option for them.

Overall, if you’re looking for a nutritious, high-quality dog food that won’t break the bank, we highly recommend giving Nature’s Recipe Easy-to-Digest Chicken, Barley -amp; Brown Recipe a try.

Buying Guide

When it comes to choosing the best dog food for your furry friend, there are a few important factors to consider. Here are some key features to look for when shopping for dog food:

Ingredients

The first thing to look at when choosing a dog food is the ingredient list. The FDA recommends selecting dog foods that contain high-quality protein sources, such as meat, poultry, or fish. It is also important to look for dog foods that contain a balance of carbohydrates and fats, as well as essential vitamins and minerals.

Nutritional Adequacy

The next thing to consider is whether the dog food meets the nutritional needs of your pet. Look for dog foods that are labeled as “complete and balanced” by the Association of American Feed Control Officials (AAFCO). This means that the food contains all the essential nutrients your dog needs to stay healthy.

Brand Reputation

It’s also important to choose a dog food from a reputable brand. Look for brands that have a history of producing high-quality dog food and have a good reputation in the industry.

Price

While price should not be the only factor to consider, it is important to choose a dog food that fits within your budget. Keep in mind that high-priced dog foods are not necessarily better than more affordable options.

Feeding Instructions

Finally, make sure to follow the feeding instructions on the dog food packaging. Overfeeding your dog can lead to obesity and other health problems, while underfeeding can result in malnutrition.

By considering these factors when choosing a dog food, you can help ensure that your furry friend is getting the nutrition they need to stay healthy and happy.

Frequently Asked Questions

What criteria does the FDA use to approve dog food brands?

The FDA doesn’t approve dog food brands. Instead, they regulate them to ensure that they’re safe for consumption. The FDA requires that all dog food brands meet certain nutritional requirements and labeling standards, and they conduct regular inspections to ensure compliance.

Which dog food brands have been recalled by the FDA recently?

The FDA has recalled several dog food brands in recent years due to contamination with harmful substances like salmonella and melamine. Some of the most notable recalls include Diamond Pet Foods, Blue Buffalo, and Hill’s Science Diet.

How does the FDA evaluate dog food for the prevention of DCM?

The FDA is currently investigating a possible link between certain dog food ingredients and dilated cardiomyopathy (DCM), a heart disease that can be fatal in dogs. They’re evaluating dog food for the presence of ingredients like peas, lentils, and potatoes, which have been associated with DCM in some cases.

What are the FDA’s guidelines on pet food for specific dog breeds?

The FDA doesn’t have specific guidelines on pet food for specific dog breeds. However, they do recommend that pet owners consult with their veterinarian to determine the best diet for their dog based on factors like age, weight, and health conditions.

What do veterinarians suggest as the healthiest dog food options?

Veterinarians generally recommend dog food that’s high in protein and low in carbohydrates, with a balanced ratio of fats and essential nutrients. They also suggest avoiding dog food that contains artificial preservatives, colors, and flavors, as well as fillers like corn and wheat.

What are the top-rated dog foods that meet FDA regulations?

Some of the top-rated dog foods that meet FDA regulations include Royal Canin, Purina Pro Plan, Hill’s Science Diet, and Blue Buffalo. However, it’s important to note that every dog is different, and what works for one dog may not work for another. It’s always best to consult with a veterinarian before making any changes to your dog’s diet.