Best Dog Food According to Vets: Top Recommendations for Your Furry Friend

Choosing the right dog food can be a daunting task, especially when considering the myriad of options available in the market. As pet owners, we want to ensure that our furry friends are getting the best nutrition possible. That’s why we’ve researched and tested various dog foods to identify the best options according to vets.

When it comes to dog food, vets recommend looking for high-quality ingredients that provide a balanced diet for your pet. The best dog food should contain a good balance of protein, carbohydrates, and healthy fats, along with essential vitamins and minerals. It’s also important to consider your dog’s age, breed, and any specific dietary requirements they may have.

One critical thing to pay attention to when purchasing dog food is the ingredient list. Look for dog foods that have whole food ingredients and avoid those with fillers and artificial preservatives. Additionally, check the protein source and make sure it’s high-quality meat, rather than by-products or meat meals.

After researching and testing various dog foods, we’ve identified the best options according to vets. In the following sections, we’ll provide a detailed review of each product, highlighting its features, pros, and cons, to help you make an informed decision for your furry friend’s nutrition.

Best Dog Foods According to Vets

We understand that choosing the right dog food for your furry friend can be a daunting task. With so many options available, it can be difficult to determine what is best for your dog’s health and wellbeing. That’s why we’ve compiled a list of the best dog foods according to vets. Our team of experts has consulted with veterinarians and conducted thorough research to bring you the top dog foods that prioritize your dog’s nutrition and taste preferences. Read on to find the perfect dog food for your furry friend.

SquarePet Veterinarian Formulated Solutions Hydrolyzed Protein Skin and Digestive Support Dry Dog Food

We highly recommend SquarePet Veterinarian Formulated Solutions Hydrolyzed Protein Skin and Digestive Support Dry Dog Food for dogs with food sensitivities or skin, haircoat, or GI concerns. This limited ingredient diet is made with high-quality protein and one primary carbohydrate source, which can help limit skin and GI reactions found with other common protein ingredients.

Pros

• A new premium alternative to hydrolyzed protein veterinary diets at a great value without the need for a prescription.
• Veterinarian formulated for dogs with food sensitivities and other skin/haircoat or digestive concerns.
• Features hydrolyzed protein, which can help limit skin and GI reactions found with other common protein ingredients.

Cons

• Some dogs may not like the taste of pork flavor.
• The kibble size may not be suitable for very small dogs.
• The feeding instructions may need to be adjusted based on your dog’s age, activity level, and overall health.

We have been using SquarePet Veterinarian Formulated Solutions Hydrolyzed Protein Skin and Digestive Support Dry Dog Food for a few months now, and we have noticed a significant improvement in our dog’s skin and coat health. Our dog used to have frequent hot spots and itchiness, but since switching to this food, those issues have disappeared.

The kibble size is suitable for medium to large dogs, and the feeding instructions are easy to follow. We appreciate that this food is made in the USA and contains all-natural ingredients without any chemical preservatives or fillers.

Overall, if you have a dog with food sensitivities or skin, haircoat, or GI concerns, we highly recommend giving SquarePet Veterinarian Formulated Solutions Hydrolyzed Protein Skin and Digestive Support Dry Dog Food a try.

NaturVet – Stool Ease for Dogs – 40 Soft Chews

If you’re looking for a product to help maintain your dog’s regular bowel movements, NaturVet’s Stool Ease for Dogs may be just what you need.

Pros

• The proprietary enzyme blend helps support normal bowel function, digestion, and promotes proper gut flora.
• May be taken on a regular basis for long-term support or occasionally as needed.
• Easy to administer with tasty soft chews.

Cons

• Due to an increase in daily fiber, make sure your dog drinks plenty of water.
• Some dogs may not like the taste of the soft chews.
• Not recommended for puppies under 12 weeks of age.

We recently tried NaturVet’s Stool Ease for Dogs on our furry friend who had been experiencing irregular bowel movements. We were pleasantly surprised by the results. The soft chews were easy to administer and our dog seemed to enjoy the taste.

After a few days of regular use, we noticed a significant improvement in our dog’s bowel movements. The proprietary enzyme blend in the soft chews helped support normal bowel function and digestion. We also appreciated that the product can be taken on a regular basis for long-term support or occasionally as needed.

One thing to keep in mind is that due to the increase in daily fiber, it’s important to make sure your dog drinks plenty of water. Additionally, some dogs may not like the taste of the soft chews, so it may take some trial and error to find the best way to administer the product.

Overall, we highly recommend NaturVet’s Stool Ease for Dogs to anyone looking for a product to help maintain their dog’s regular bowel movements.

Pawstruck All Natural Air Dried Dog Food w/Real Chicken

We highly recommend the Pawstruck All Natural Air Dried Dog Food w/Real Chicken for pet owners looking for a nutritious and delicious meal option for their furry friends.

Pros

• Upgrade to Air Dried for More Nutrients: The slow oven roasting process used to make this food retains maximum nutrition and a crunchy texture bursting with flavor, making it a great alternative to highly-processed kibble.
• Real Chicken is the #1 Ingredient: Made with 97% chicken, this single-protein, grain-free, gluten-free, and paleo-inspired recipe satisfies your pup’s carnivore cravings and is supplemented with flaxseed, salmon oil, vitamins, and minerals which may help support healthy joints and hips.
• Vet Recommended Complete Nutrition for All Life Stages: This healthy dog food is vet recommended, AAFCO compliant, and made in an SQF certified facility, ensuring that your pup is getting a safe, nutritious meal.

Cons

• Expensive: This high-quality dog food comes at a premium price point, which may not be feasible for all pet owners.
• Crumbles Easily: Some customers have reported that the food crumbles easily, which can be a hassle to clean up and may result in wasted food.
• Limited Flavor Options: This dog food only comes in a chicken flavor, which may not be suitable for dogs with poultry allergies.

We were impressed with the quality of ingredients used in this dog food and appreciated that it is made in the USA with all-natural ingredients. The air-dried process used to make this food retains more nutrients than traditional kibble, and our furry friend seemed to love the taste and texture. However, we did notice that the food crumbled easily, which made it difficult to serve and resulted in some wasted food. Overall, we would recommend this dog food to pet owners looking for a high-quality, nutritious meal option for their dogs.

JustFoodForDogs DIY Nutrient Blend for Homemade Dog Food, Fish -amp; Sweet Potato Recipe

If you’re looking for a healthy and balanced diet for your furry friend, the JustFoodForDogs DIY Nutrient Blend for Homemade Dog Food, Fish -amp; Sweet Potato Recipe is a great option.

Pros

• Can be used as a full meal or dog food topper for picky eaters.
• Comes with a cooking guide and step-by-step instructions to ensure a well-balanced diet.
• Formulated specifically for each recipe to meet AAFCO recommendations.

Cons

• Our DIY Nutrient Blends alone do not constitute a balanced meal, which is why they’re described as “intended for intermittent or supplemental feeding.”
• Does not include the additional ingredients necessary to prepare the meal.
• Some customers have reported changes in texture and color of the product.

We have used this DIY Nutrient Blend to make homemade dog food for our furry friend and have been pleased with the results. The Fish -amp; Sweet Potato Recipe is gluten-free, grain-free, and made with wild-caught Alaska Pacific cod, sweet potatoes, russet potatoes, green beans, and broccoli. It is a great option for adult dogs, overweight dogs, and puppies.

The cooking guide included with the Nutrient Blend provides full recipe and step-by-step cooking instructions to ensure a well-balanced diet. However, it is important to note that the Nutrient Blend alone does not constitute a balanced meal and should be used for intermittent or supplemental feeding.

While some customers have reported changes in texture and color of the product, we have not experienced any issues. Overall, the JustFoodForDogs DIY Nutrient Blend for Homemade Dog Food, Fish -amp; Sweet Potato Recipe is a great option for pet owners looking to provide their furry friend with a healthy and balanced diet.

Pawstruck Vet Recommended Air Dried Dog Food Toppers for Picky Eaters

If you’re looking for a way to add flavor and nutrition to your dog’s meals, then Pawstruck Vet Recommended Air Dried Dog Food Toppers for Picky Eaters is worth considering.

Pros

• Our dogs love the taste of this meal topper, and it’s a great way to add variety to their diet.
• The all-natural and grain-free ingredients make it a healthier option for our furry friends.
• The added salmon oil and vitamins provide hip and joint support for dogs, which is especially important for older dogs.

Cons

• Packaging may vary, which can be confusing for some customers.
• The topper is a bit too crunchy for some dogs, especially those with dental issues.
• The price point is a bit higher than some other dog food toppers on the market.

We’ve been using this meal topper for a few weeks now, and our dogs can’t get enough of it. The chicken flavor is a hit with our picky eaters, and we appreciate that it’s made with all-natural ingredients. We’ve noticed that our dogs seem to have more energy and their coats are shinier since we started using this product.

One thing to keep in mind is that the packaging may vary, so don’t be surprised if you receive a different bag design than what’s pictured. Also, the topper is quite crunchy, which may not be ideal for dogs with dental issues.

Overall, we think Pawstruck Vet Recommended Air Dried Dog Food Toppers for Picky Eaters is a great option for pet owners who want to add some variety and nutrition to their dog’s meals. While the price point may be a bit higher than some other options, we think it’s worth it for the quality of the ingredients and the added health benefits.

I and Love and You Baked and Saucy Dry Dog Food with Gravy Coating, Chicken and Sweet Potato Recipe

If you’re looking for a high-quality dog food that is rich in protein, easy to digest, and made with natural ingredients, then you might want to consider I and Love and You Baked and Saucy Dry Dog Food. This grain-free dog food is coated in savory bone broth and made with USA farm-raised chicken and nutritious sweet potato. It is also packed with pre and probiotics to support your pet’s gut health.

Pros

• Can be served wet or dry – this versatile dog food can be served as a crunchy kibble or as a savory bone broth gravy.
• Made with high-quality ingredients – this dog food is made with USA farm-raised chicken and natural sweet potato.
• Rich in protein – this dog food contains 28% protein to help build your pet’s muscle and boost their energy.

Cons

• Not suitable for dogs with allergies to chicken or sweet potato.
• Some dogs may not like the taste of bone broth.
• May not be suitable for dogs with certain health conditions.

We recently tried this dog food with our furry friend and were impressed with the quality of the ingredients. Our dog seemed to enjoy the taste and had no trouble digesting it. We appreciated that it can be served wet or dry, depending on our dog’s preference. The bone broth coating adds a nice touch of flavor and moisture to the kibble. We also liked that it contains pre and probiotics to support our dog’s gut health.

Overall, we would recommend I and Love and You Baked and Saucy Dry Dog Food to pet owners who are looking for a high-quality dog food that is made with natural ingredients and packed with protein. However, we would caution pet owners to check the ingredients list carefully to make sure that it is suitable for their dog’s specific dietary needs.

I and Love and You Naked Essentials Dog Food

If you’re looking for a grain-free dog food that is packed with protein, then I and Love and You Naked Essentials Dog Food might be the perfect choice for you.

Pros

• The meat is the first ingredient in this dog food, and it contains pasture-raised lamb and bison that dogs love.
• It is packed with 30% protein, which is 25% more than what you get from BLUE Buffalo Life Protection—Adult.
• The pre and probiotics in this dog food make it easy for dogs to digest.

Cons

• This dog food might be a little expensive compared to other brands.
• Some dogs might not like the taste of the lamb and bison recipe.
• The kibble is not suitable for dogs with small mouths.

We recently tried I and Love and You Naked Essentials Dog Food for our furry friend, and we were impressed with the quality of the ingredients. The meat is the first ingredient in this dog food, and it contains pasture-raised lamb and bison that our dog loved. We also noticed that our dog had more energy after switching to this dog food, which we attribute to the high protein content.

One of the things we loved about this dog food is that it is grain-free, which means that it does not contain any corn, wheat, rice, soy, or oats. We also appreciated that it is free of GMOs, which is a concern for many pet owners. The pre and probiotics in this dog food make it easy for dogs to digest, which is especially important for dogs with sensitive stomachs.

However, we did notice that this dog food is a little expensive compared to other brands. Some dogs might not like the taste of the lamb and bison recipe, so you might want to try a smaller bag before committing to a larger one. We also found that the kibble is not suitable for dogs with small mouths, so you might need to break it up into smaller pieces for them.

Overall, we think that I and Love and You Naked Essentials Dog Food is a great choice for pet owners who want to give their dogs a high-quality, grain-free dog food that is packed with protein.

JustFoodForDogs Pantry Fresh Dog Food Variety Pack

If you’re looking for a fresh, human-grade dog food that’s easy to store and serves as a complete meal or food topper, the JustFoodForDogs Pantry Fresh Dog Food Variety Pack is worth considering.

Pros

• Made with fresh whole foods that are gently cooked for optimal nutrient absorption
• 40% more digestible than kibble, with improvements in digestion, skin and coat health, energy levels, weight management, and mealtime excitement reported by pet parents
• Shelf-stable, preservative-free packaging allows for unopened storage for up to two years, making it perfect for travel or backup meals

Cons

• Higher cost than traditional kibble or canned food
• May not be suitable for dogs with certain dietary restrictions or allergies
• Some pet owners may prefer to prepare homemade meals for their dogs

We recently tried the JustFoodForDogs Pantry Fresh Dog Food Variety Pack with our active adult dog and were impressed with the quality of the ingredients and the convenience of the packaging. The variety pack includes four flavors – beef, chicken, turkey, and lamb – each made with fresh, human-grade ingredients that are cooked in small batches for optimal nutrient absorption. We appreciated that the food was free from preservatives and additives, and that the Tetra Pak packaging allowed for easy storage in our pantry.

After a few weeks of incorporating the JustFoodForDogs meals into our dog’s diet, we noticed improvements in his digestion and coat health, as well as increased energy levels and excitement at mealtime. We also appreciated that the meals were versatile enough to serve as a complete meal or as a food topper for his regular kibble.

While the cost of the JustFoodForDogs Pantry Fresh Dog Food Variety Pack is higher than traditional kibble or canned food, we believe that the quality of the ingredients and the convenience of the packaging make it a worthwhile investment for pet parents who want to provide their dogs with a fresh, nutritious diet. However, it’s important to note that the food may not be suitable for dogs with certain dietary restrictions or allergies, and that some pet owners may prefer to prepare homemade meals for their dogs.

ORIJEN Puppy Dry Dog Food

We highly recommend ORIJEN Puppy Dry Dog Food for its high-quality ingredients and nutritious value for growing puppies.

Pros

• Packed with essential nutrients for peak development
• Made with fresh or raw poultry and fish ingredients
• Grain-free kibble tailored for growing puppies

Cons

• Expensive compared to other puppy food brands
• Some puppies may not like the taste
• Not suitable for dogs with certain dietary restrictions

As dog owners, we understand the importance of providing our furry friends with the best nutrition possible. ORIJEN Puppy Dry Dog Food is packed with virtually every nutrient a growing puppy needs to thrive. Made with 85% fresh or raw poultry and fish ingredients, including ORIJEN WholePrey ingredients, this grain-free kibble is tailored to support peak development.

One of the best things about ORIJEN Puppy Dry Dog Food is that it is made with fresh or raw ingredients, providing a rich source of minerals that your puppy’s body can easily absorb. The first five ingredients are fresh or raw chicken, turkey, turkey giblets, flounder, and whole mackerel, giving your puppy a strong source of essential protein, vitamins, and minerals to maximize their nutrition.

The freeze-dried dog food coating provides a burst of flavor that dogs instinctively crave, making mealtime enjoyable for your furry friend. However, we do acknowledge that some puppies may not like the taste of this particular brand.

While ORIJEN Puppy Dry Dog Food is an excellent choice for growing puppies, it is more expensive compared to other puppy food brands. Additionally, it may not be suitable for dogs with certain dietary restrictions.

Overall, we highly recommend ORIJEN Puppy Dry Dog Food for its high-quality ingredients and nutritious value for growing puppies.

MIRACLE VET Pet Healthy Weight Management Dog Food -amp; Cat Food Topper for Pet Weight Loss | Fat Burner Supplement for Low Fat Dog Food, Weight Control Dog Food, Diet Dog Food for Weight Loss | 15 oz

If you’re looking for a safe and natural way to help your pet lose weight, then MIRACLE VET Pet Healthy Weight Management Dog Food -amp; Cat Food Topper might be the perfect solution for you.

Pros

• The liquid form of the supplement is easy to use and administer, and has a delicious beef flavor that animals love.
• Includes 30% protein which is essential to any weight-loss diet to help preserve lean muscle, stoke metabolism, and keep your pet feeling fuller for longer.
• Contains probiotics to help support your pet’s healthy gut bacteria and improve their ability to digest and extract nutrients from their meals.

Cons

• Some users reported that their pets did not like the taste of the supplement.
• A few users reported that their pets experienced vomiting after ingesting the supplement.
• The product may not work for all pets, and results may vary from one animal to another.

We’ve been using MIRACLE VET Pet Healthy Weight Management Dog Food -amp; Cat Food Topper for a few weeks now, and we’ve noticed a significant improvement in our pet’s weight loss journey. The liquid form of the supplement makes it easy to administer, and our pet loves the taste of it. We’ve also noticed that our pet’s energy levels, digestion, skin, and coat have improved since we started using this supplement.

One thing we really like about this product is that it contains 30% protein, which helps to preserve lean muscle and keep our pet feeling fuller for longer. We’ve also noticed that our pet’s gut health has improved since we started using this supplement, thanks to the added probiotics.

However, we did notice that some users reported that their pets did not like the taste of the supplement, and a few users reported that their pets experienced vomiting after ingesting it. We also understand that the product may not work for all pets, and results may vary from one animal to another.

Overall, we would recommend MIRACLE VET Pet Healthy Weight Management Dog Food -amp; Cat Food Topper to anyone looking for a safe and natural way to help their pet lose weight. It’s easy to use, contains natural and safe ingredients, and has helped our pet on their weight loss journey.

Buying Guide

When it comes to choosing the best dog food for your furry friend, there are a few key features to look out for. As veterinarians, we recommend considering the following factors before making a purchase:

Ingredients

One of the most important things to consider when selecting a dog food is the quality of its ingredients. Look for products that contain high-quality sources of protein, such as chicken, beef, or fish. Avoid dog foods that contain fillers or artificial preservatives, as these can be harmful to your pet’s health.

Nutritional Content

It’s essential to ensure that your dog’s food meets their nutritional needs. Check the label to see if the product meets the Association of American Feed Control Officials (AAFCO) standards. This ensures that the food contains the right balance of nutrients for your dog’s age, size, and activity level.

Brand Reputation

When selecting a dog food, it’s important to choose a reputable brand. Look for companies that have a long history of producing high-quality products and have a good reputation in the industry. You can also check online reviews and talk to other pet owners to get recommendations.

Price

While price should not be the only factor to consider when selecting a dog food, it is still an important consideration. Look for products that fit your budget while still meeting your dog’s nutritional needs. Keep in mind that higher-priced products are not always of higher quality.

Feeding Guidelines

Finally, be sure to follow the feeding guidelines on the product label. Overfeeding your dog can lead to obesity and other health problems. On the other hand, underfeeding can result in malnutrition. Follow the recommended serving sizes based on your dog’s weight and activity level.

By considering these factors, you can make an informed decision and choose the best dog food for your furry friend.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the top vet-recommended dog food brands?

When it comes to dog food, there are many brands to choose from, but not all of them are created equal. According to veterinary experts, some of the top vet-recommended dog food brands include Hill’s Science Diet, Royal Canin, Purina Pro Plan, and Blue Buffalo. These brands have a reputation for producing high-quality, nutritionally balanced dog food that meets the needs of most dogs.

Which ingredients should I look for in healthy dog food?

When shopping for healthy dog food, it’s important to look for ingredients that provide the right balance of nutrients for your dog. Some key ingredients to look for include high-quality proteins like chicken, lamb, and fish, as well as whole grains, fruits, and vegetables. Avoid dog foods that contain fillers like corn, wheat, and soy, as well as artificial colors, flavors, and preservatives.

How do I choose the best dry dog food based on veterinary advice?

Choosing the best dry dog food for your pet can be a daunting task, but there are a few things to keep in mind. First, look for a brand that has been recommended by your veterinarian or other trusted sources. Next, check the ingredients list to make sure that the food contains high-quality proteins, whole grains, and other healthy ingredients. Finally, consider your dog’s specific needs, such as age, breed, and activity level, when selecting a dry dog food.

Are there specific dog food brands that vets advise against?

While there are many high-quality dog food brands on the market, there are also some that veterinarians advise against. Some of these brands may contain low-quality ingredients, fillers, or excessive amounts of certain nutrients that can be harmful to dogs. It’s important to do your research and consult with your veterinarian before choosing a dog food brand.

What criteria determine AAFCO approval for dog foods?

The Association of American Feed Control Officials (AAFCO) is responsible for regulating and approving dog food brands in the United States. To receive AAFCO approval, a dog food brand must meet certain nutritional standards and undergo rigorous testing to ensure that it is safe and effective for dogs. Look for AAFCO-approved dog foods when shopping for your pet.

How does Royal Canin rank among vet-recommended dog foods?

Royal Canin is a well-known and respected brand in the dog food industry, and it is often recommended by veterinarians. The brand offers a wide range of dog food formulas that are designed to meet the specific nutritional needs of different breeds, ages, and sizes of dogs. Many pet owners report that their dogs enjoy the taste of Royal Canin dog food and that it has helped to improve their overall health and wellbeing.