Best Dog Food Canada: Top Picks for 2024

Feeding your furry friend with the right food is crucial for their overall health and well-being. With so many options available in the market, finding the best dog food in Canada can be overwhelming. That’s why we spent countless hours researching and testing different brands to help you make an informed decision.

When it comes to dog food, there are various types of food available, including dry kibble, wet food, raw food, and homemade food. Each type has its benefits and drawbacks, but the best dog food for your pup depends on their age, breed, size, and health conditions.

One of the critical things to consider when choosing the best dog food in Canada is the quality of ingredients. Look for brands that use high-quality protein sources, such as chicken, beef, or fish, as the first ingredient. Avoid brands that use fillers, artificial preservatives, and by-products.

In this article, we’ll guide you through the best dog food brands available in Canada and help you choose the right one for your furry friend.

Best Dog Food in Canada

We understand the importance of providing our furry friends with the best possible nutrition. As dog owners ourselves, we know that choosing the right food for your dog can be overwhelming, especially with so many options available in the market. That’s why we’ve researched and compiled a list of the best dog food options available in Canada. Our list includes a variety of options that cater to different dietary needs and preferences. Whether you’re looking for grain-free, organic, or hypoallergenic options, we’ve got you covered. So, without further ado, here are our top picks for the best dog food in Canada.

Canidae Pure Real Salmon -amp; Sweet Potato Recipe Adult Dry Dog 22 LB

If you’re looking for a grain-free, hypoallergenic dog food that’s perfect for pups with a sensitive stomach, then Canidae Pure Real Salmon -amp; Sweet Potato Recipe Adult Dry Dog Food might be the right choice for you. This recipe is made using 10 or fewer key ingredients that are easily recognizable, with real salmon as the first ingredient, along with menhaden fish meal, peas, and sweet potatoes.

Pros

• The real salmon as the first ingredient makes it delicious and nutritious for your furry friend.
• The limited number of wholesome ingredients used makes it perfect for dogs with a sensitive stomach.
• Contains antioxidants and probiotics to support a healthy digestive and immune system.

Cons

• The price is a bit higher compared to other dog food brands.
• Some dogs might not like the taste of salmon.
• The kibble size might be too big for smaller dogs.

We’ve been using this dog food for a while now, and our furry friend loves it. The real salmon and sweet potato recipe make it a delicious meal for him, and we’ve noticed that he’s more active and energetic since we switched to Canidae Pure. The limited number of ingredients makes it easy to digest, and we haven’t noticed any stomach issues since we started using it.

The antioxidants and probiotics in the dog food have also helped our furry friend maintain a healthy immune and digestive system. We’ve also noticed an improvement in his coat, which is now shinier and healthier-looking.

Overall, we highly recommend Canidae Pure Real Salmon -amp; Sweet Potato Recipe Adult Dry Dog Food to anyone looking for a high-quality, nutritious, and delicious dog food for their furry friend.

CANIDAE Pure Limited Ingredient Premium Adult Dry Dog Food, Real Beef -amp; Barley Recipe

If you’re looking for a limited ingredient dog food that’s both nutritious and delicious, then you might want to consider the CANIDAE Pure Limited Ingredient Premium Adult Dry Dog Food with Real Beef -amp; Barley Recipe. It’s a well-rounded meal that’s formulated to meet the nutritional levels established by the AAFCO Dog Food Nutrient Profiles for maintenance.

Pros

• Crafted with real angus beef as the first ingredient, paired with wholesome grains like barley, sorghum, and millet, this recipe offers a taste your dog will love.
• Made using 8 or fewer key ingredients that are easily recognizable, it’s perfect for sensitive dogs who may have trouble digesting certain foods.
• Formulated with antioxidants and probiotics to support a healthy digestive and immune system, along with a nutritious blend of vitamins and minerals to support healthy joints, skin, and coat.

Cons

• Some dogs may not like the taste or texture of the food.
• The bag may be too large for some pet owners to handle or store.
• It may be more expensive than other dog food brands.

We’ve been using this dog food for a few months now, and we’ve noticed a significant improvement in our dog’s overall health and well-being. She seems to love the taste of the food, and we appreciate the fact that it’s made with high-quality, wholesome ingredients that we can trust. We also like that it’s formulated with antioxidants and probiotics to support a healthy digestive and immune system, which is important for our dog’s long-term health.

Overall, we would definitely recommend the CANIDAE Pure Limited Ingredient Premium Adult Dry Dog Food with Real Beef -amp; Barley Recipe to other pet owners who are looking for a nutritious and delicious dog food that’s made with their dog’s health and well-being in mind.

Canidae All Life Stages Premium Dry Dog Food

We highly recommend the Canidae All Life Stages Premium Dry Dog Food for all breeds and ages. This multi-protein formula is nutritionally dense and nourishing, providing optimum nutrition for dogs of all sizes and breeds.

Pros

• Crafted with premium ingredients like chicken, turkey, and lamb, along with wholesome grains, providing complete and balanced goodness for all ages, breeds, and sizes.
• Formulated with antioxidants and probiotics to support a healthy digestive and immune system, along with a nutritious blend of vitamins and minerals to support healthy joints, skin, and coat.
• Canidae is committed to creating a world of sustainable goodness for pets and the planet, setting a new standard for the pet food industry.

Cons

• Some dogs may not like the taste of the multi-protein blend.
• The kibble size may not be suitable for very small dogs.
• The price point may be higher than other dog food brands.

This dog food has been a game-changer for our furry friends. The Canidae All Life Stages Premium Dry Dog Food provides complete and balanced nutrition, making it the perfect choice for multi-dog households. We love that it is formulated with premium ingredients and is free of corn, wheat, and soy. The antioxidants and probiotics in the formula support a healthy digestive and immune system, while the blend of vitamins and minerals promotes healthy joints, skin, and coat. We also appreciate Canidae’s commitment to sustainability and eco-friendly packaging. Overall, we highly recommend this dog food for all breeds and ages.

Nutro Ultra Adult Large Breed Dry Dog Food, Chicken, Lamb and Salmon Protein Trio, 30 lb. Bag

We highly recommend Nutro Ultra Adult Large Breed Dry Dog Food for large breed dogs who need high-quality protein and essential nutrients to support their overall health and well-being.

Pros

• Nutro Ultra Adult Large Breed Dry Dog Food contains real chicken as the #1 ingredient and high-quality protein from chicken, lamb, and salmon sources, which supports strong muscles and a lean body.
• This dry dog food recipe is specifically tailored and designed for large breed dogs, providing essential nutrients to support whole-body health and natural sources of Glucosamine -amp; Chondroitin to support healthy joints.
• Nutro Ultra Adult Large Breed Dry Dog Food contains Omega 3 -amp; 6 fatty acids, which promote healthy skin and a radiant coat.

Cons

• Some dogs may not like the taste of Nutro Ultra Adult Large Breed Dry Dog Food.
• This dry dog food is relatively expensive compared to other brands.
• Some customers have reported issues with the packaging, such as the bag being ripped or torn during shipping.

We’ve been using Nutro Ultra Adult Large Breed Dry Dog Food for our large breed dog for several months now, and we’ve noticed a significant improvement in his overall health and well-being. He loves the taste of the chicken, lamb, and salmon protein trio, and we appreciate the high-quality ingredients and essential nutrients that this dry dog food provides. We’ve also noticed that his coat looks shinier and healthier since we switched to this brand.

Overall, we highly recommend Nutro Ultra Adult Large Breed Dry Dog Food for large breed dogs who need high-quality protein and essential nutrients to support their overall health and well-being. If you’re looking for a high-quality dry dog food that’s specifically tailored for large breed dogs, Nutro Ultra Adult Large Breed Dry Dog Food is an excellent choice.

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 nutrient-rich and high-quality dog food, then NUTRO ULTRA Adult High Protein Natural Dry Dog Food with a Trio of Proteins from Chicken, Lamb and Salmon is a great option.

Pros

• This dog food is made with high-quality ingredients and provides complete and balanced nutrition for adult dogs in every bowl.
• The blend of 15 vibrant superfoods like coconut, chia, kale, and blueberries make this dog food protein-rich and nutrient-dense.
• NUTRO ULTRA Dry Dog Food is made with quality ingredients, sourced from a trusted network of farmers and suppliers and has no artificial flavors, colors, or preservatives.

Cons

• Some dogs may not like the taste of this dog food.
• This dog food may be too expensive for some pet owners.
• It contains trace amounts of genetically modified material due to potential cross-contact during manufacturing.

We have been feeding our dog NUTRO ULTRA Adult High Protein Natural Dry Dog Food with a Trio of Proteins from Chicken, Lamb and Salmon for a while now and have noticed a significant improvement in her coat and overall health. The blend of 15 vibrant superfoods makes this dog food nutrient-dense and protein-rich, which is essential for our active dog. We love that this dog food is made with quality ingredients, sourced from a trusted network of farmers and suppliers and has no artificial flavors, colors, or preservatives. However, we did notice that some dogs may not like the taste of this dog food, and it may be too expensive for some pet owners. Overall, if you’re looking for a high-quality dog food that is nutrient-rich and protein-rich, then NUTRO ULTRA Adult High Protein Natural Dry Dog Food with a Trio of Proteins from Chicken, Lamb and Salmon is a great choice.

Nature’s Recipe Dry Dog Food, Grain Free Salmon, Sweet Potato -amp; Pumpkin Recipe, 24 lb. Bag Dry Food Salmon, Sweet Potato -amp; Pumpkin 24 Pound (Pack of 1)

If you’re looking for a dry dog food that’s both nutritious and tasty, Nature’s Recipe Grain Free Salmon, Sweet Potato -amp; Pumpkin Recipe is definitely worth considering.

Pros

• Real salmon is the number one ingredient
• Contains nutrient-dense carbohydrate sources like sweet potato and pumpkin instead of added corn or wheat
• Helps support healthy digestion, skin and coat health, and a healthy immune system

Cons

• Some users have reported that the food looks and smells different from previous purchases
• A few dogs may not enjoy the taste
• The price point may be higher than some other dry dog foods on the market

We’ve been using Nature’s Recipe Grain Free Salmon, Sweet Potato -amp; Pumpkin Recipe for our dog for a few months now, and we’ve been happy with the results. Our dog seems to enjoy the taste of the food, and we’ve noticed that her coat is looking shinier and healthier than before.

One of the things we like about this dry dog food is that it contains real salmon as the number one ingredient. Salmon is a quality protein source that helps maintain optimal muscle strength, which is important for our active dog.

We also appreciate that Nature’s Recipe uses nutrient-dense carbohydrate sources like sweet potato and pumpkin instead of added corn or wheat. This helps support healthy digestion, which is important for our dog’s overall health.

Finally, we like that this dry dog food contains omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids from salmon, which helps support skin and coat health, as well as antioxidants zinc and vitamin E, which help support a healthy immune system.

Of course, no product is perfect, and there are a few potential downsides to consider. Some users have reported that the food looks and smells different from previous purchases, which could be a concern for some dog owners. Additionally, while most dogs seem to enjoy the taste of this dry dog food, a few may not find it as appealing. Finally, the price point may be higher than some other dry dog foods on the market, which could be a consideration for budget-conscious pet owners.

Overall, we think that Nature’s Recipe Grain Free Salmon, Sweet Potato -amp; Pumpkin Recipe is a solid choice for dog owners looking for a nutritious and tasty dry dog food.

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’re looking for a high-quality dog food that will satisfy your small breed dog’s nutritional needs, then NUTRO ULTRA Adult Small Breed High Protein Natural Dry Dog Food with a Trio of Proteins from Chicken, Lamb and Salmon is worth considering.

Pros

• The recipe includes a blend of 15 vibrant superfoods like coconut, chia, kale, and blueberries that provide a balanced diet for adult dogs that’s nutrient-rich and flavorful.
• The kibble is specially formulated for small breed adult dogs, making it easier for them to chew and digest.
• The recipe is made with high-quality ingredients sourced from trusted farmers and suppliers and is free from chicken by-product meal, corn, wheat, or soy protein, as well as artificial flavors, colors, or preservatives.

Cons

• The kibble may be too small for some larger small breed dogs, which could cause them to swallow it whole.
• Some dogs may not like the taste of the kibble, which could make it difficult to transition to this food.
• The price point may be higher than other dog food brands, which could be a concern for some pet owners.

We’ve been using NUTRO ULTRA Adult Small Breed High Protein Natural Dry Dog Food with a Trio of Proteins from Chicken, Lamb, and Salmon for a few months now, and we’re happy with the results. Our small breed dog seems to enjoy the taste of the kibble, and we’ve noticed that his coat is shinier and his energy levels are higher since we switched to this food.

One thing we appreciate about this recipe is the inclusion of superfoods like coconut, chia, kale, and blueberries, which provide added nutritional benefits for our dog. We also like that the kibble is specially formulated for small breed adult dogs, which makes it easier for our dog to chew and digest.

However, we have noticed that the kibble is quite small, which could be a concern for larger small breed dogs who may be prone to swallowing it whole. Additionally, some dogs may not like the taste of the kibble, which could make it difficult to transition to this food.

Overall, we think NUTRO ULTRA Adult Small Breed High Protein Natural Dry Dog Food with a Trio of Proteins from Chicken, Lamb, and Salmon is a great option for small breed dogs who need a nutrient-rich, flavorful diet. While the price point may be higher than other dog food brands, we believe the quality of the ingredients justifies the cost.

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

We highly recommend ZIWI Peak Air-Dried Dog Food to all dog owners who want to provide their furry friends with a nutritious and delicious meal.

Pros

• The air-dried method naturally preserves the food without artificial fillers, while retaining nutrients and maximizing flavor.
• The recipe is made up of 96% fresh meat, organs, and bones, as well as powerhouse superfoods including green mussels, organic kelp, and green tripe, making it a great choice for picky eaters.
• The food is 100% ethically and sustainably sourced from New Zealand’s free-range farms and pristine blue waters, with no added hormones, antibiotics, or growth promotants.

Cons

• The product is quite expensive compared to other dog foods on the market.
• Some dogs may not be fond of the lamb flavor.
• The food may not be suitable for dogs with certain dietary restrictions.

ZIWI Peak Air-Dried Dog Food is a nutrient-dense option, with three portions of raw ingredients making one portion of finished air-dried food, meaning you will feed less and your dog will have reduced stool volume. The food provides higher Taurine levels than nutritionally required to promote heart health and may help with allergy relief, healthy skin and coat, improved digestion, joint health and mobility, and weight maintenance.

The food is easy to serve as it is ready to scoop and serve, and with no preservatives, sugars, or glycerides, it is safe, clean to handle, and a nutritious alternative to a raw diet. The limited ingredients recipe also means that there are no peas, legumes, or potatoes included, making it a great option for dogs with dietary restrictions.

Overall, ZIWI Peak Air-Dried Dog Food is a great option for dog owners who want to provide their furry friends with a nutritious and delicious meal. Although it may be more expensive than other dog foods on the market, the high-quality ingredients and natural air-drying process make it well worth the investment.

CANIDAE Pure Real Beef -amp; Barley Recipe Adult Dry Dog 4 LB

If you’re looking for a limited ingredient dog food that’s perfect for sensitive dogs, then CANIDAE Pure Real Beef -amp; Barley Recipe Adult Dry Dog Food is a great choice. Made with real angus beef as the first ingredient and wholesome grains like barley, sorghum, and millet, this recipe is crafted with your dog’s health and well-being in mind.

Pros

• Real food ingredients for the taste your dog will love
• Complete and balanced goodness for adult dogs
• Formulated with antioxidants and probiotics to support a healthy digestive and immune system

Cons

• May not be suitable for dogs with certain dietary restrictions
• Some dogs may not like the taste
• More expensive than some other dog food options

We’ve been using this dog food for our dog for a few months now, and we’ve noticed a significant improvement in his overall health and well-being. The limited ingredients make it easy to digest, and the real angus beef gives it a delicious taste that our dog loves. We also appreciate that it’s formulated with antioxidants and probiotics to support a healthy digestive and immune system, along with a nutritious blend of vitamins and minerals to support healthy joints, skin, and coat.

While this dog food is more expensive than some other options, we believe that the quality of the ingredients and the benefits it provides to our dog make it worth the investment. However, we do acknowledge that it may not be suitable for dogs with certain dietary restrictions, and some dogs may not like the taste. Overall, we highly recommend CANIDAE Pure Real Beef -amp; Barley Recipe Adult Dry Dog Food for any dog owner looking for a high-quality, limited ingredient dog food.

CANIDAE All Life Stages Lamb Meal -amp; Rice Formula Dog Dry 27 Pound (Pack of 1)

If you’re looking for a high-quality dog food that can meet the nutritional needs of all your dogs, regardless of age, breed, or size, then CANIDAE All Life Stages Lamb Meal -amp; Rice Formula Dog Dry Food is an excellent choice.

Pros

• The kibble is nutritionally dense and nourishing, made with premium ingredients like lamb and wholesome grains, and free from corn, wheat, or soy.
• This formula is complete and balanced, providing all the essential nutrients that dogs need to thrive, including antioxidants and probiotics to support a healthy digestive and immune system.
• With its “one bag fits all” blend, this dog food is perfect for multi-dog households, making mealtimes a breeze.

Cons

• Some dogs might not like the taste of lamb, so it might take some time to transition them to this formula.
• The kibble size might be too small for larger breeds, making it easy for them to swallow without chewing properly.
• The price point might be higher compared to other dog food brands, but the quality of the ingredients justifies the cost.

We’ve been feeding our dogs with CANIDAE All Life Stages Lamb Meal -amp; Rice Formula Dog Dry Food for several months now, and we’re impressed with the results. Our dogs have healthy skin and coats, and their digestive systems seem to be functioning well. We appreciate that this dog food is made with responsibly sourced proteins and regeneratively farmed ingredients, which aligns with our values of sustainability and ethical farming practices.

One thing to note is that this formula is not suitable for dogs with chicken allergies, as it contains chicken fat. However, if your dogs don’t have any allergies, we highly recommend this dog food for its quality ingredients and complete nutrition. Overall, we believe that CANIDAE All Life Stages Lamb Meal -amp; Rice Formula Dog Dry Food is a great investment for your dogs’ health and well-being.

Buying Guide

When it comes to buying the best dog food in Canada, there are a few things to keep in mind. We understand that choosing the right product can be overwhelming, but with the following features to look for, you can make an informed decision for your furry friend.

Nutritional Requirements

Just like humans, dogs have different nutritional requirements based on their age, breed, and health condition. Therefore, it is essential to choose a product that meets your dog’s specific needs. Look for dog food that has the right balance of protein, carbohydrates, fats, and fiber. Also, make sure that the product meets the AAFCO (Association of American Feed Control Officials) standards.

Ingredients

The ingredients in your dog’s food play a significant role in their overall health. Avoid products that contain fillers, artificial preservatives, and by-products. Instead, choose products that have high-quality protein sources, such as chicken, beef, and lamb. Additionally, look for dog food that has a variety of vegetables and fruits, as they provide essential vitamins and minerals.

Brand Reputation

Choose a reputable brand that has a history of producing high-quality dog food. Research the brand’s manufacturing process and check if they have any recalls or safety concerns. Also, read reviews from other dog owners to get an idea of their experience with the brand.

Price

The price of dog food can vary significantly depending on the brand and quality. While it may be tempting to choose a cheaper product, it may not be the best for your dog’s health. Look for a product that offers good value for money and meets your dog’s nutritional requirements.

In summary, when choosing the best dog food in Canada, consider your dog’s nutritional requirements, ingredients, brand reputation, and price. By keeping these features in mind, you can choose a product that provides your furry friend with the best possible nutrition.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the leading dog food brands recommended by veterinarians in Canada?

Some of the top dog food brands recommended by veterinarians in Canada include Royal Canin, Hill’s Science Diet, Purina Pro Plan, and Orijen.

Which dog food brands should be avoided in Canada due to quality concerns?

There have been concerns about the quality of some dog food brands in Canada, including certain products from brands like Beneful, Ol’ Roy, and Kibbles ‘n Bits. It’s important to read labels and do research before selecting a dog food brand.

What are the top-rated dog foods for small breeds available in Canada?

Some of the top-rated dog foods for small breeds in Canada include Royal Canin X-Small Adult, Hill’s Science Diet Small Paws Adult, and Acana Small Breed.

Which dry dog food options are considered the healthiest for dogs in Canada?

Some of the healthiest dry dog food options in Canada include Orijen Original, Acana Grasslands, and Wellness CORE.

Can you list some of the most positively reviewed dog food brands in Canada?

Some of the most positively reviewed dog food brands in Canada include Orijen, Acana, Royal Canin, and Hill’s Science Diet.

Is Kirkland brand dog food produced within Canada, and how does it rate in quality?

Kirkland brand dog food is produced in the United States, but is available in Canada. The quality of Kirkland brand dog food is generally considered to be good, with many positive reviews from pet owners.