Best Dog Food for Basset Hounds: Top Picks and Tips for Optimal Health

Basset hounds are a loyal and lovable breed that make great pets. However, they have specific nutritional requirements that must be met to keep them healthy and happy. As a result, choosing the right dog food for your basset hound is crucial.

When it comes to dog food, there are many options available on the market, including dry, wet, raw, and homemade dog food. Each type has its advantages and disadvantages, and it’s important to choose the right one for your basset hound. Some critical things to consider when selecting dog food for your basset hound include the ingredients, nutritional value, and quality of the food.

Basset hounds are prone to obesity, which can lead to health problems such as joint pain and heart disease. Therefore, it’s essential to choose a dog food that is low in fat and high in protein. Additionally, basset hounds have a tendency to develop food allergies, so it’s important to choose a dog food that is free of common allergens such as wheat, soy, and corn.

After researching and testing various dog foods, we have identified the best dog food for basset hounds that meets their specific nutritional needs. Our top picks are low in fat, high in protein, and free of common allergens, making them the perfect choice for your furry friend.

Best Dog Food for Basset Hounds

As pet owners, we want to ensure our furry friends are getting the best nutrition possible. For basset hounds, finding the right dog food can be a challenge due to their unique body structure and potential health issues. After extensive research and consultation with veterinarians, we have compiled a list of the best dog food options for basset hounds. These products have been selected based on their high-quality ingredients, balanced nutritional value, and positive feedback from other basset hound owners.

Merrick Premium Grain Free Dry Adult Dog Food

If you’re looking for a high-quality dog food for your basset hound, Merrick Premium Grain Free Dry Adult Dog Food is a great choice.

Pros

• Made with real, deboned beef as the first ingredient
• Contains no corn, wheat, soy, gluten, or artificial colors, flavors, or preservatives
• Rich in protein and fiber with leading levels of omega fatty acids, glucosamine, and chondroitin

Cons

• More expensive than some other dog food brands
• Some dogs may not like the taste
• Contains peas, which some dogs may be sensitive to

We’ve been using Merrick Premium Grain Free Dry Adult Dog Food for our basset hound for several months now, and we’re very happy with it. The real, deboned beef is always the first ingredient, which gives us confidence that our dog is getting high-quality protein. We appreciate that this dog food is grain-free and doesn’t contain any artificial ingredients.

Our dog seems to enjoy the taste of this dog food, and we’ve noticed that his coat looks healthier and shinier since we switched to Merrick. We also appreciate that this dog food contains leading levels of omega fatty acids, glucosamine, and chondroitin to support our dog’s overall health.

While this dog food is more expensive than some other brands, we believe that the quality of the ingredients justifies the price. However, some dogs may not like the taste, and we’ve noticed that this dog food contains peas, which some dogs may be sensitive to.

Overall, we highly recommend Merrick Premium Grain Free Dry Adult Dog Food for basset hounds and other dogs who need a high-quality, protein-rich diet.

Best Breed Dr. Gary’s German Dog Diet

We highly recommend purchasing Best Breed Dr. Gary’s German Dog Diet for your basset hound because of its exceptional quality and health benefits.

Pros

• VETERINARIAN DEVELOPED HOLISTIC NUTRITION – This dog food was developed by a veterinarian who saw health issues in his clinic that he believed were caused by low-quality nutrition.
• SPECIALLY FORMULATED FOR DIGESTIVE HEALTH – The synergistic blend of soluble and insoluble fiber does an excellent job of keeping the large breed dog’s sensitive digestive system active and healthy.
• NATURAL JOINT CARE – This dog food contains natural ingredients like New Zealand Green-Lipped Sea Mussel, which is a natural source of glucosamine and chondroitin that supports proper joint and connective tissue health.

Cons

• PRICE – This dog food is on the expensive side.
• AVAILABILITY – This product may not be available in all pet stores.
• STRONG SMELL – Some customers may find the smell of the food to be too strong.

We have been using Best Breed Dr. Gary’s German Dog Diet for our basset hound for several months now, and we have seen a significant improvement in his overall health. His coat is shinier, his digestion has improved, and he has more energy than ever before.

The dog food is made with natural ingredients that are cooked to perfection using a unique, slow-cooking process to ensure easy digestion and optimum nutrient absorption. We appreciate that the formulas use EU-approved ingredients, which means if an ingredient is not good enough for us and our family, it is not good enough for Best Breed food! The dog food is also free from corn, wheat, or by-product meals.

Overall, we highly recommend Best Breed Dr. Gary’s German Dog Diet for basset hounds. The health benefits of this dog food are undeniable, and we believe it is worth the investment for your furry friend’s well-being.

Rachael Ray Nutrish Premium Natural Dry Dog Food

If you’re looking for a high-quality dog food for your basset hound, Rachael Ray Nutrish Premium Natural Dry Dog Food is a great option. Our experience with this product has been positive, and we highly recommend it.

Pros

• Made with real beef as the number one ingredient
• Includes Nutrish’s Whole Health Blend which helps support a healthy mind, body, and energy level
• No fillers, artificial flavors, or artificial preservatives

Cons

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

We’ve found that Rachael Ray Nutrish Premium Natural Dry Dog Food is a great choice for basset hounds. The real beef as the number one ingredient provides high-quality protein to support healthy organs and maintain lean muscle mass. We also appreciate that the Whole Health Blend includes omega-3 fatty acids from fish oil to help support an active mind, antioxidants like those found in superfoods to help support a healthy body, and whole grains to help maintain balanced energy levels.

One of the best things about this dog food is that it doesn’t contain any fillers, artificial flavors, or artificial preservatives. This means you can feel good about what you’re feeding your furry friend. However, we do want to note that some dogs may not like the taste of this food, so it’s important to introduce it slowly and monitor your dog’s reaction.

While Rachael Ray Nutrish Premium Natural Dry Dog Food is more expensive than some other brands, we believe that the quality of the ingredients and the benefits of the Whole Health Blend make it worth the investment. However, if you’re on a tight budget, this may not be the best option for you.

Overall, we highly recommend Rachael Ray Nutrish Premium Natural Dry Dog Food for basset hounds. It’s a high-quality dog food that provides the nutrition your furry friend needs to thrive.

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

If you’re looking for a dog food that supports your basset hound’s digestive health, IAMS Advanced Health Adult Healthy Digestion Dry Dog Food with Real Chicken is a great option.

Pros

• This dog food is 100% complete and balanced, containing essential nutrients and 0% fillers to support your dog’s whole-body health.
• It features prebiotics and guaranteed live probiotics to help maintain your dog’s digestive system.
• This recipe supports regularity and healthy stools with a blend of natural fiber and prebiotics.

Cons

• Some dogs may not like the taste of this dog food.
• The kibble size may be too big for some basset hounds.
• The bag can be difficult to reseal, which may result in the food becoming stale.

We have been using IAMS Advanced Health Adult Healthy Digestion Dry Dog Food with Real Chicken for a few months now and we’ve noticed that our basset hound’s digestive system has improved. He used to have irregular bowel movements, but now he’s much more regular and his stools are healthy. We also appreciate that this dog food is made with real, farm-raised chicken as the #1 ingredient and is formulated without wheat, artificial flavors, or preservatives.

While our basset hound seems to enjoy this dog food, we have heard from other dog owners that their dogs didn’t like the taste. Additionally, the kibble size may be too big for some basset hounds, so you may need to break it up or find a smaller kibble size. Lastly, the bag can be difficult to reseal, which may result in the food becoming stale. Overall, we recommend giving IAMS Advanced Health Adult Healthy Digestion Dry Dog Food with Real Chicken a try if you’re looking for a dog food that supports your basset hound’s digestive health.

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 dog food that is packed with protein and free of unnecessary fillers, Stella -amp; Chewy’s Wild Red Raw Coated kibble is a great option for your basset hound.

Pros

• Love Is Raw: Each bite is coated in delicious and nutritious freeze-dried raw meat, providing a protein-rich taste dogs crave with the nutrition they deserve.
• Whole Prey Ingredients: 86% of the recipe’s protein comes from animal muscle meat, cartilage, and organ meat, helping your pet thrive on a diet similar to what their ancestors enjoyed in the wild.
• Great for the Skin -amp; Coat: Omega fatty acids from chia and pumpkin seeds and salmon oil provide skin and coat support.

Cons

• Price: This dog food is on the pricier side, but it’s worth it for the high-quality ingredients.
• Short Expiry: Some customers have reported receiving bags with a short expiry date, so make sure to check the date before purchasing.
• Not for Picky Eaters: Some dogs may not enjoy the taste or texture of the raw-coated kibble.

We’ve been feeding our basset hound Stella -amp; Chewy’s Wild Red Raw Coated kibble for a few months now, and we’ve noticed a significant improvement in her coat and overall health. The high-quality ingredients and lack of fillers make us feel good about what we’re feeding her, and she absolutely loves the taste.

One thing to keep in mind is that this dog food is on the pricier side, but we believe that the high-quality ingredients are worth the cost. Additionally, some customers have reported receiving bags with a short expiry date, so make sure to check the date before purchasing.

Overall, if you’re looking for a high-quality dog food that will help your basset hound thrive, we highly recommend Stella -amp; Chewy’s Wild Red Raw Coated kibble.

Rachael Ray Nutrish Premium Natural Dry Dog Food

We highly recommend the Rachael Ray Nutrish Premium Natural Dry Dog Food for basset hounds.

Pros

• Real beef as the number one ingredient helps support healthy organs and maintain lean muscle mass.
• Fiber sources including peas and brown rice help support healthy digestion.
• Whole Health Blend includes omega-3 fatty acids from fish oil to help support an active mind, antioxidants to help support a healthy body, and whole grains to help maintain balanced energy levels.

Cons

• May not be suitable for dogs with certain dietary restrictions.
• Some dogs may not like the taste.
• The 40-pound bag may be too large for some households.

We have been using this dog food for our basset hound for several months now and have noticed a significant improvement in her overall health and energy levels. The real beef as the number one ingredient provides her with the protein she needs to maintain lean muscle mass, while the fiber sources help keep her digestive system healthy. The Whole Health Blend is also a great addition, providing her with the essential nutrients she needs for a healthy mind and body.

While the taste may not be suitable for all dogs, our basset hound loves it and we have had no issues with her eating it. The only downside is that the 40-pound bag may be too large for some households, but we have found that it is a great value for the price. Overall, we highly recommend the Rachael Ray Nutrish Premium Natural Dry Dog Food for basset hounds.

IAMS Minichunks Adult Dry Dog Food Lamb -amp; Rice Recipe Dog Kibble, 30 lb. Bag Lamb,Rice 30 Pound (Pack of 1)

If you’re looking for a dry dog food that’s both nutritious and delicious, IAMS Minichunks Adult Dry Dog Food with Lamb and Rice is definitely worth considering.

Pros

• The first ingredient is real, premium lamb
• Promotes healthy digestion with a tailored blend of wholesome fibers and prebiotics
• Builds strong muscles with quality-sourced protein

Cons

• Some dogs may not like the taste
• Contains some controversial ingredients
• May not be suitable for dogs with certain dietary restrictions

We’ve been feeding our basset hound IAMS Minichunks for a few months now, and we’ve been really happy with the results. The kibble is small enough for him to chew easily, and he seems to love the taste. We’ve noticed that his coat is shinier and his energy levels have improved since we switched to this food.

One of the things we really appreciate about IAMS Minichunks is that the first ingredient is real, premium lamb. We feel good knowing that we’re giving our dog high-quality protein that will help him build strong muscles and maintain a healthy weight. The kibble also contains a tailored blend of wholesome fibers and prebiotics that promote healthy digestion, which is especially important for basset hounds who can be prone to digestive issues.

While we’ve been happy with IAMS Minichunks overall, we do want to mention that it does contain some controversial ingredients, such as by-product meal and corn meal. Additionally, some dogs may not like the taste, so it’s always a good idea to introduce a new food gradually to see how your dog reacts.

Overall, we would definitely recommend IAMS Minichunks Adult Dry Dog Food with Lamb and Rice to other basset hound owners looking for a high-quality, nutritious dog food.

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 healthy, nutritious dog food that won’t break the bank, Nature’s Recipe Grain Free Salmon, Sweet Potato -amp; Pumpkin Recipe might be the perfect choice for your basset hound.

Pros

• Real salmon is the number one ingredient, providing a quality protein source that helps maintain optimal muscle strength.
• Made with nutrient-dense carbohydrate sources like sweet potato and pumpkin instead of added corn or wheat, which can be difficult for some dogs to digest.
• Contains antioxidants zinc and vitamin E that help support a healthy immune system.

Cons

• Some customers have reported that the kibble looks and smells different from previous orders, which could be a concern for picky eaters.
• While the fiber from sweet potatoes and pumpkin can help support healthy digestion, some dogs may experience gastrointestinal issues if they are not used to this type of diet.
• While the price is reasonable, it may not be the most affordable option for those on a tight budget.

Overall, we recommend Nature’s Recipe Grain Free Salmon, Sweet Potato -amp; Pumpkin Recipe for basset hounds who need a high-quality, nutritious diet. With real salmon as the main ingredient and nutrient-dense carbohydrates like sweet potato and pumpkin, this dog food provides a balanced meal that supports strong muscles, healthy digestion, and a strong immune system. However, if your dog is a picky eater or has a sensitive stomach, it may be worth trying a smaller bag first to see if they like the taste and can tolerate the fiber-rich ingredients.

Lucy Pet Formulas for Life Salmon, Pumpkin, -amp; Quinoa Dry Dog Food

If you’re looking for a dog food that’s specially formulated for basset hounds, Lucy Pet Formulas for Life Salmon, Pumpkin, -amp; Quinoa Dry Dog Food is a great choice.

Pros

• The formula is carefully crafted for gut and digestive health, making it ideal for basset hounds with sensitive stomachs.
• The wild-caught Alaskan salmon is rich in omega-3 fatty acids, which promote healthy skin and coat.
• The kibble is designed to meet the essential nutrient requirements for all life stages of dogs, making it a versatile choice for basset hounds of any age.

Cons

• Some dogs may experience loose stools during the first week of transitioning to this food.
• The price may be higher than some other dog food brands, but it’s worth it for the quality ingredients.
• The kibble size may be too large for some basset hounds, requiring them to chew more thoroughly.

We recently tried Lucy Pet Formulas for Life Salmon, Pumpkin, -amp; Quinoa Dry Dog Food for our basset hound, and we were impressed with the results. Our dog has a sensitive stomach and often experiences digestive issues, but this food seemed to alleviate those problems. We also noticed a significant improvement in our dog’s coat and skin health.

One of the standout features of this dog food is the wild-caught Alaskan salmon, which is an excellent source of omega-3 fatty acids. This ingredient promotes healthy skin and coat, which is particularly important for basset hounds who are prone to skin issues.

We also appreciated that this formula is designed to meet the essential nutrient requirements for all life stages of dogs. This makes it a versatile choice for basset hounds of any age, from puppies to seniors.

However, we did notice that some dogs may experience loose stools during the first week of transitioning to this food. It’s important to gradually introduce the new food to your dog’s diet to prevent any digestive issues.

Overall, we highly recommend Lucy Pet Formulas for Life Salmon, Pumpkin, -amp; Quinoa Dry Dog Food for basset hounds. It’s a high-quality, carefully crafted formula that promotes gut and digestive health, healthy skin and coat, and overall well-being for your furry friend.

Merrick Healthy Grains Premium Large Breed Dry Dog Food

If you’re looking for a premium dog food that is made with high-quality ingredients and supports your basset hound’s overall health, Merrick Healthy Grains Premium Large Breed Dry Dog Food is an excellent option.

Pros

• Real deboned chicken is the first ingredient, providing a great source of protein to build and maintain healthy muscle tissue.
• The blend of whole grains like oats, brown rice, barley, and quinoa helps support healthy digestion.
• High levels of glucosamine and chondroitin are added to support your dog’s healthy hips and joints, while L-carnitine supports a healthy metabolism.

Cons

• Some customers have reported that the kibble size is too small for larger dogs.
• The price point is higher compared to other dog food brands.
• While the formula contains no peas or lentils, it does contain rice, which some dogs may be sensitive to.

We’ve been feeding our basset hound Merrick Healthy Grains Premium Large Breed Dry Dog Food for several months now, and we’ve noticed a significant improvement in his coat and overall health. The kibble size is perfect for him, and he seems to enjoy the taste.

One thing to note is that the price point is a bit higher compared to other dog food brands, but we believe it’s worth the investment for the high-quality ingredients and added health benefits. If you’re looking for a premium dog food for your basset hound, we highly recommend Merrick Healthy Grains Premium Large Breed Dry Dog Food.

Buying Guide

When it comes to choosing the best dog food for your basset hound, there are several factors to consider. We’ve compiled a list of features to look for when selecting a high-quality dog food that meets your basset hound’s nutritional needs.

Ingredients

The first thing to consider when selecting a dog food for your basset hound is the ingredients. Look for a product that contains high-quality protein sources, such as chicken, beef, or lamb, as well as complex carbohydrates like brown rice or sweet potato. Avoid products that contain fillers and artificial preservatives, as these can be harmful to your dog’s health.

Nutritional Value

Another important factor to consider when selecting a dog food is the nutritional value. Look for a product that is formulated to meet the nutritional needs of your basset hound, including high levels of protein, fiber, and essential vitamins and minerals. Consult with your veterinarian to determine the specific nutritional needs of your dog.

Brand Reputation

When selecting a dog food, it’s important to consider the reputation of the brand. Look for a product from a reputable manufacturer with a proven track record of producing high-quality dog food. Read reviews from other basset hound owners to get an idea of the quality of the product.

Price

Price is also an important consideration when selecting a dog food for your basset hound. While it’s important to choose a high-quality product, you don’t want to overspend. Look for a product that offers good value for the price, and consider buying in bulk to save money.

By considering these factors when selecting a dog food for your basset hound, you can ensure that you are providing your pet with a high-quality, nutritious diet that meets their specific needs.

Frequently Asked Questions

What ingredients should I look for in food for a Basset Hound with allergies?

If your Basset Hound suffers from allergies, you should look for food that contains limited ingredients and avoids common allergens such as wheat, soy, and corn. Some good options include food with novel protein sources like duck or venison, and grain-free options that use alternative carbohydrates like sweet potatoes.

How does Royal Canin cater to the nutritional needs of Basset Hounds?

Royal Canin offers a breed-specific formula for Basset Hounds that is designed to meet their unique nutritional needs. This formula contains a blend of antioxidants, vitamins, and minerals to support joint health and maintain a healthy weight. It also includes a combination of fiber sources to promote healthy digestion.

What are the benefits of feeding my Basset Hound a homemade diet?

Feeding your Basset Hound a homemade diet can give you greater control over the ingredients and quality of their food. This can be especially beneficial if your dog has specific dietary needs or allergies. However, it’s important to work with a veterinarian or canine nutritionist to ensure that your homemade diet is nutritionally balanced and meets your dog’s specific needs.

Can Purina Pro Plan meet the dietary requirements of my Basset Hound?

Purina Pro Plan offers a range of formulas that are designed to meet the nutritional needs of Basset Hounds. Their formulas contain high-quality protein sources, essential fatty acids, and a blend of antioxidants to support overall health and well-being. However, it’s important to choose the formula that best meets your dog’s individual needs.

How does ACANA Dog Food support the health of Basset Hounds?

ACANA Dog Food offers a range of formulas that are designed to support the health and well-being of Basset Hounds. Their formulas contain high-quality protein sources, essential fatty acids, and a blend of antioxidants to support joint health and maintain a healthy weight. They also use regionally sourced ingredients to ensure the quality and freshness of their food.

Are there specific foods I should avoid giving my Basset Hound?

Yes, there are certain foods that are toxic to dogs and should be avoided. These include chocolate, caffeine, alcohol, grapes and raisins, onions and garlic, and anything containing xylitol. Additionally, some dogs may be sensitive to certain ingredients like chicken or beef, so it’s important to monitor your dog’s reaction to different foods and adjust their diet accordingly.