Best Dog Food for Hunting Dogs: Top Picks for Optimal Performance

Hunting dogs require a diet that is rich in protein, fat, and other essential nutrients to maintain their energy levels and support their active lifestyle. That’s why choosing the right dog food for your hunting dog is crucial. The best dog food for hunting dogs must provide them with the necessary nutrients to keep them healthy and active, while also supporting their immune system.

When choosing the best dog food for your hunting dog, you should consider the ingredients used in the dog food. Look for dog foods that contain high-quality animal protein, such as chicken, beef, or fish, as the primary ingredient. Additionally, the dog food should be free from artificial preservatives, colors, and flavors, as these can have negative effects on your dog’s health.

Another important factor to consider when choosing the best dog food for your hunting dog is the age of your dog. Puppies and adult dogs have different nutritional requirements, and it’s essential to choose a dog food that is specifically formulated for your dog’s age.

After researching and testing various dog foods, we have identified the top dog foods that are best suited for hunting dogs. These dog foods provide the necessary nutrients to support your dog’s active lifestyle while also keeping them healthy and happy.

Best Dog Food for Hunting Dogs

As avid hunters ourselves, we understand the importance of keeping our furry companions in top shape. A key factor in achieving this is providing them with the right nutrition. Hunting dogs require a diet that is high in protein, fat, and essential nutrients to support their active lifestyle. With so many options available, it can be overwhelming to choose the best dog food for your hunting dog. That’s why we’ve put together a list of the top dog foods that have been tried and tested by fellow hunting enthusiasts. Our list includes a variety of options to cater to different dietary needs and preferences. Read on to find the best dog food for your hunting companion.

Little Hunter Freeze Dried Dog Food Raw Chicken Recipe

If you’re looking for a high-quality dog food that’s made from all-natural ingredients, then Little Hunter Freeze Dried Dog Food Raw Chicken Recipe might be the perfect choice for your furry friend.

Pros

• Picky eater-approved: If your dog is a picky eater, then they’ll love the mouth-watering, real meat that Little Hunter freeze-dried dog food offers.
• Human-grade: Made from just quality, USDA-rated raw meats and wild-caught fish, and balanced with fresh, organic fruits and veggies – that’s it! Our grain-free dog food gives pups balanced, natural nutrition.
• Convenient: Freeze-dried to lock in freshness, flavor, and nutrition, our raw food can go straight from bag to bowl – no freezing, thawing, or cleanup required.

Cons

• Cost: Little Hunter Freeze Dried Dog Food Raw Chicken Recipe is a bit cost-prohibitive compared to other dog food brands.
• Grain-free: While grain-free diets are popular, they can contribute to heart disease if your dog doesn’t medically require it.
• Kibble size: The kibble size is a bit larger than expected, which could be a problem for smaller dogs.

We’ve been using Little Hunter Freeze Dried Dog Food Raw Chicken Recipe for a few weeks now, and we’re impressed with the quality of the food. Our dog, who is a picky eater, loves the taste of the real meat and has more mealtime excitement than ever before. We appreciate that the food is made from all-natural ingredients and is freeze-dried to lock in freshness, flavor, and nutrition.

One downside to this dog food is the cost, which is a bit higher than other brands. Additionally, while grain-free diets are popular, they can contribute to heart disease if your dog doesn’t medically require it. Lastly, the kibble size is a bit larger than expected, which could be a problem for smaller dogs.

Overall, we highly recommend Little Hunter Freeze Dried Dog Food Raw Chicken Recipe for anyone looking for a high-quality dog food made from all-natural ingredients.

Hunters Special Performance Plus Dog Food

If you’re looking for a dog food that will help keep your hunting dog healthy and energized, Hunters Special Performance Plus Dog Food is definitely worth considering.

Pros

• Made with high-quality protein that’s sourced and manufactured in the US
• Enhanced with prebiotics to support healthy digestion
• Omega 3 and 6 fatty acids help promote healthy skin and a shiny coat

Cons

• Some dogs may not enjoy the taste of the chicken flavor
• The kibble may be too large for smaller dogs
• The price point may be higher than some other dog food brands

We’ve been using Hunters Special Performance Plus Dog Food for a few months now, and we’ve noticed a significant improvement in our hunting dog’s overall health and energy levels. The high-quality protein used in this dog food is clearly making a difference, as our dog seems to have more stamina during long hunts. We also appreciate the added prebiotics, which have helped support our dog’s digestive health.

One thing to keep in mind is that some dogs may not enjoy the taste of the chicken flavor. While our dog doesn’t seem to mind, we’ve heard from other hunters that their dogs have been picky about the taste. Additionally, the kibble size may be a bit too large for smaller dogs, so keep that in mind if you have a smaller breed.

Overall, we think Hunters Special Performance Plus Dog Food is a great option for hunting dogs who need focused nutrition to stay healthy and energized. While it may be slightly more expensive than other dog food brands, we think it’s worth the investment for the quality ingredients and improved performance that it provides.

Hunters Special Hi Protein Dog Food 27/15, 40 lbs.

If you’re looking for a dog food that caters to your hunting dog’s nutritional needs, Hunters Special Hi Protein Dog Food is a great option. We’ve used this product for a while now, and here’s what we think:

Pros

• Made with high-quality protein in family-owned US manufacturing facilities
• Enhanced with prebiotics to help support healthy digestion
• Optimized blend of soluble -amp; insoluble fibers helps support healthy digestion

Cons

• Some dogs may not like the taste
• The kibble size may not be suitable for all breeds
• The packaging is not resealable

Hunters Special Hi Protein Dog Food is a great option for hunting dogs who need a lot of protein to maintain their strength and endurance. We appreciate that the protein in this dog food comes from high-quality sources, and that it’s manufactured in family-owned US facilities. The prebiotics in this dog food also help support healthy digestion, which is important for active dogs who need to maintain their energy levels.

One thing to note is that some dogs may not like the taste of this dog food. While our dogs enjoyed it, we’ve heard from other dog owners that their dogs were not as enthusiastic. Additionally, the kibble size may not be suitable for all breeds. If you have a smaller dog, you may need to break up the kibble to make it easier to eat.

Finally, the packaging is not resealable, which can be inconvenient if you’re trying to keep the dog food fresh. We recommend transferring the dog food to an airtight container to keep it fresh.

Overall, we think that Hunters Special Hi Protein Dog Food is a great option for hunting dogs who need a lot of protein and support for healthy digestion. If you’re looking for a dog food that caters to your hunting dog’s nutritional needs, we recommend giving this one a try.

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)

We highly recommend NUTRO ULTRA Adult Dry Dog Food with a Trio of Proteins from Chicken, Lamb and Salmon for hunting dogs. This premium dog food kibble is made with high-quality ingredients that provide complete and balanced nutrition for adult dogs in every bowl. Here are the pros and cons of this product:

Pros

• The high-quality protein in this dog food is sourced from poultry, lamb, and salmon, which is specially formulated for adult dogs.
• NUTRO ULTRA Adult Dry Dog Food is made with Non-GMO ingredients and has no chicken by-product meal, corn, wheat, or soy protein and no artificial flavors, colors, or preservatives.
• This nutrient-rich recipe designed for canines is full of flavor and has high-quality protein as the foundation of every recipe.

Cons

• The cost of this dog food is higher than other brands.
• The size of the kibble is too big for small dogs.
• Some dogs may not like the taste of this dog food.

We have used NUTRO ULTRA Adult Dry Dog Food with a Trio of Proteins from Chicken, Lamb and Salmon for our hunting dogs and we are extremely satisfied with the results. Our dogs have maintained a healthy weight, have a shiny coat, and high energy levels. The blend of 15 vibrant superfoods like coconut, chia, kale, and blueberries provide high levels of antioxidants to give your dog a healthy heart, strong immune system, and a shiny coat.

This dog food is made with quality ingredients, sourced from a trusted network of farmers and suppliers. We appreciate that this dog food is made with Non-GMO ingredients and has no chicken by-product meal, corn, wheat, or soy protein and no artificial flavors, colors, or preservatives.

Overall, we highly recommend NUTRO ULTRA Adult Dry Dog Food with a Trio of Proteins from Chicken, Lamb and Salmon for hunting dogs. It is a premium dog food kibble that provides complete and balanced nutrition for adult dogs in every bowl.

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

If you’re looking for a high-quality dog food that will provide your hunting dog with the nourishment they need, Nutro Ultra Adult Large Breed High Protein Dry Dog Food is a great option. We’ve been using this dog food for our hunting dogs for years and have seen great results.

Pros

• The trio of animal proteins and exclusive blend of 14 superfoods delivers abundant flavor and nutrition that dogs love.
• The high-quality protein from chicken sources supports strong muscles and a lean body.
• Contains Omega 3 -amp; 6 fatty acids for healthy skin and a radiant coat.

Cons

• The price point may be higher than some other dog food options.
• The kibble size may be too large for some smaller dogs.
• The bag can be difficult to reseal, which can lead to the food going stale.

We’ve noticed that our dogs have more energy, shinier coats, and fewer digestive issues since switching to Nutro Ultra Adult Large Breed High Protein Dry Dog Food. The high-quality ingredients and lack of fillers mean that we can feel confident that we’re providing our dogs with the best possible nutrition.

One thing to keep in mind is that the kibble size may be too large for some smaller dogs. Additionally, the bag can be difficult to reseal, which can lead to the food going stale. However, we’ve found that these minor issues are outweighed by the benefits of this dog food.

Overall, we highly recommend Nutro Ultra Adult Large Breed High Protein Dry Dog Food for hunting dogs. It’s a great option for those who want to provide their dogs with healthy, high-quality nutrition.

Nutro So Simple Meal Complement Wet Dog Food Chicken and Chicken -amp; Duck Recipes in Bone Broth Variety Pack, 2 oz. Tubs, Pack of 8 Variety Pack 2 Ounce (Pack of 8)

If you’re looking for a simple and natural dog food that your hunting dog will love, Nutro So Simple Meal Complement Wet Dog Food is definitely worth considering.

Pros

• Made with only 7 natural ingredients, including real chicken as the #1 ingredient and real duck.
• Mix this dog food in with your dog’s favorite Nutro Dry Dog Food for added flavor and ultimate tail wags.
• Crafted with real, recognizable ingredients and without grains, chicken by-product meal, corn, wheat or soy, and no artificial flavors*, colors* or preservatives*

Cons

• Expensive compared to other dog food options.
• It may not be suitable for dogs with specific dietary restrictions.
• Some dogs may not like the taste.

We’ve been using Nutro So Simple Meal Complement Wet Dog Food for a few weeks now, and our hunting dog absolutely loves it. The simple recipe with only 7 natural ingredients, including real chicken and duck, is perfect for our dog’s digestive system. We also love that it contains no artificial flavors, colors, or preservatives.

We’ve been mixing this dog food in with our dog’s regular dry food, and he’s been licking his bowl clean every time. The added flavor has definitely made mealtime more exciting for him, and we’ve noticed an increase in his energy levels during hunting trips.

One downside is that this dog food is more expensive compared to other options on the market. Additionally, it may not be suitable for dogs with specific dietary restrictions. Some dogs may also not like the taste, so it’s important to introduce it slowly to see if your dog likes it.

Overall, if you’re looking for a high-quality dog food that’s made with natural ingredients and is perfect for hunting dogs, Nutro So Simple Meal Complement Wet Dog Food is definitely worth trying.

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 hunting dogs who require a balanced and nutritious diet.

Pros

• This dog food is 100% complete and balanced with essential nutrients, making it a great everyday meal for hunting dogs.
• It supports regularity and healthy stools with a blend of natural fiber and prebiotics, which is essential for dogs that are active and on the move.
• Made with real farm-raised chicken, this dog food is formulated without wheat, artificial flavors, or preservatives, making it a healthy and safe option for dogs.

Cons

• Some dogs may not like the taste of this dog food.
• It may not be suitable for dogs with certain dietary restrictions or allergies.
• The price point may be higher compared to other dog food brands.

IAMS Advanced Health Adult Healthy Digestion Dry Dog Food with Real Chicken is a great option for hunting dogs that require a balanced and nutritious diet. The natural fiber and prebiotics in this dog food help support regularity and healthy stools, which is essential for dogs that are active and on the move. We appreciate that this dog food is made with real farm-raised chicken and formulated without wheat, artificial flavors, or preservatives, making it a healthy and safe option for dogs.

In our experience, some dogs may not like the taste of this dog food, which can be a downside for picky eaters. Additionally, it may not be suitable for dogs with certain dietary restrictions or allergies, so be sure to check the ingredients list before purchasing. Finally, the price point may be higher compared to other dog food brands, which may be a drawback for some pet owners.

Overall, we believe that IAMS Advanced Health Adult Healthy Digestion Dry Dog Food with Real Chicken is a great option for hunting dogs that require a balanced and nutritious diet. The natural fiber and prebiotics in this dog food help support regularity and healthy stools, while the real chicken provides essential nutrients for dogs.

Hill’s Science Diet

If you want a dog food that provides your hunting dog with balanced nutrition and helps maintain their overall health, then Hill’s Science Diet is worth considering.

Pros

• Made with natural ingredients
• Supports healthy digestion
• Helps maintain a healthy coat

Cons

• May not be suitable for dogs with certain dietary restrictions
• May not be as flavorful as other dog foods
• Can be pricey compared to other dog food brands

We have been using Hill’s Science Diet for our hunting dog and have been impressed with the results. The natural ingredients provide our dog with the necessary energy to stay active throughout the day. We have also noticed a significant improvement in our dog’s coat and overall health.

One of the standout features of Hill’s Science Diet is its ability to support healthy digestion. The natural fibers in the dog food promote digestive health, which is essential for hunting dogs that are constantly on the move. Additionally, the precise balance of omega 6 and vitamin E helps maintain a beautiful skin and healthy coat.

While Hill’s Science Diet is an excellent choice for hunting dogs, it may not be suitable for dogs with certain dietary restrictions. Additionally, some dogs may find the flavor to be less appealing than other dog foods. Finally, Hill’s Science Diet can be more expensive than other dog food brands.

Overall, we highly recommend Hill’s Science Diet for hunting dogs. Its natural ingredients, support for healthy digestion, and ability to maintain a healthy coat make it an excellent choice for any active dog.

Blue Buffalo Blue’s Stew Grain Free Natural Adult Wet Dog Food, Hunter’s Stew 12.5 oz cans (Pack of 12) Duck 12.5 Ounce (Pack of 12)

If you’re looking for a high-quality wet dog food for your hunting dog, Blue Buffalo Blue’s Stew Grain Free Natural Adult Wet Dog Food, Hunter’s Stew is definitely worth considering.

Pros

• With real duck as the first ingredient, this grain-free wet dog food is packed with high-quality protein to support healthy muscle maintenance in active hunting dogs.
• The versatile recipe can be fed as a delicious treat, mixed into your dog’s favorite dry food, or served as a meal on its own.
• Made with wholesome, natural ingredients and enhanced with vitamins and minerals, this wet dog food contains no chicken or poultry by-product meals, no corn, wheat, or soy, and no artificial flavors or preservatives.

Cons

• Some customers have reported receiving dented cans in their shipments, which can be a concern for the quality of the food.
• The price point for this wet dog food is higher than some other options on the market.
• While most dogs seem to love the taste of this wet food, a few picky eaters may not be interested.

We recently tried out Blue Buffalo Blue’s Stew Grain Free Natural Adult Wet Dog Food, Hunter’s Stew with our own hunting dog, and we were impressed with the quality of the ingredients and the versatility of the recipe. Our dog loved the taste of the real duck and garden veggies, and we appreciated that we could mix this wet food into his dry kibble for added flavor and nutrition.

One thing to note is that some customers have reported receiving dented cans in their shipments, which can be concerning for the quality of the food. However, we did not experience this issue ourselves. Additionally, while the price point for this wet dog food is higher than some other options on the market, we felt that the quality of the ingredients and the nutritional benefits were well worth it.

Overall, if you’re looking for a high-quality wet dog food for your hunting dog, we would definitely recommend giving Blue Buffalo Blue’s Stew Grain Free Natural Adult Wet Dog Food, Hunter’s Stew a try. With its real duck protein, wholesome ingredients, and versatile recipe, it’s a great option for active, healthy dogs.

Hunters Special Maintenance Dog Food 21/12

We highly recommend Hunters Special Maintenance Dog Food 21/12 for hunting dogs. This dog food is specially formulated to provide all-season nutrition for adult dogs, making it perfect for hunting dogs that require high-quality protein and healthy fats to maintain their energy levels and keep their muscles strong.

Pros

• Made with High-Quality Protein in our Family Owned US Manufacturing Facilities
• Enhanced with Prebiotics to help Support Healthy Digestion
• Omega 3 -amp; Omega 6 Fatty Acids Help Support Healthy Skin -amp; Shiny Coat

Cons

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

Hunters Special Maintenance Dog Food 21/12 is made with high-quality protein in family-owned US manufacturing facilities, ensuring that your hunting dog gets the best nutrition possible. This dog food is also enhanced with prebiotics to help support healthy digestion, which is essential for hunting dogs that need to maintain their energy levels throughout the day. Additionally, the omega 3 -amp; omega 6 fatty acids in this dog food help support healthy skin and shiny coat, making your hunting dog look and feel their best.

One of the downsides of this dog food is that it may not be suitable for dogs with certain dietary restrictions. Additionally, some dogs may not like the taste, which can be a problem if your hunting dog is a picky eater. Finally, Hunters Special Maintenance Dog Food 21/12 may be more expensive than other dog food brands, which may be a consideration for some dog owners.

Overall, we believe that Hunters Special Maintenance Dog Food 21/12 is an excellent choice for hunting dogs that require all-season nutrition. With high-quality protein, prebiotics, and omega 3 -amp; omega 6 fatty acids, this dog food provides everything your hunting dog needs to stay healthy and strong.

Buying Guide

When it comes to choosing the best dog food for hunting dogs, there are a few key features you should look at to ensure you are getting a high-quality product that meets your dog’s nutritional needs. Here are some things to consider:

Protein Content

Hunting dogs require a diet that is high in protein to support their active lifestyle. Look for dog foods that have a protein content of at least 25%. The protein source should be listed as the first ingredient and come from a high-quality source such as chicken, beef, or fish.

Fat Content

Fat is an important source of energy for hunting dogs. Look for dog foods that have a fat content of at least 15%. The fat source should come from a high-quality source such as chicken fat or fish oil.

Carbohydrates

Carbohydrates provide hunting dogs with a source of energy, but they should not be the main ingredient in their diet. Look for dog foods that have a carbohydrate content of no more than 50%. The carbohydrate source should come from a high-quality source such as sweet potatoes or brown rice.

Vitamins and Minerals

Hunting dogs require a variety of vitamins and minerals to support their overall health. Look for dog foods that contain a blend of vitamins and minerals, including vitamin E, vitamin C, and selenium.

Grain-Free Options

Some hunting dogs may have allergies or sensitivities to grains. Grain-free dog food options are available and can be a good choice for dogs with these issues.

By considering these key features, you can ensure that you are choosing the best dog food for your hunting dog. Remember to always consult with your veterinarian before making any changes to your dog’s diet.

Frequently Asked Questions

What nutritional requirements should be considered when choosing food for a hunting dog?

When choosing food for a hunting dog, it’s important to consider their nutritional requirements. Hunting dogs require a diet that is high in protein and fat to support their active lifestyle. Look for dog food that contains high-quality sources of protein, such as chicken, turkey, or fish. Fat is also important for hunting dogs, as it provides the energy they need to stay active. Look for dog food that contains healthy sources of fat, such as salmon oil or flaxseed.

How does the activity level of hunting dogs affect their dietary needs?

The activity level of hunting dogs can affect their dietary needs. Hunting dogs that are more active require more calories to fuel their bodies. Look for dog food that is specifically formulated for active dogs, as it will contain more calories and nutrients to support their energy needs.

Are there specific ingredients to look for in high-quality food for hunting dogs?

Yes, there are specific ingredients to look for in high-quality food for hunting dogs. Look for dog food that contains high-quality sources of protein, such as chicken, turkey, or fish. Fat is also important for hunting dogs, as it provides the energy they need to stay active. Look for dog food that contains healthy sources of fat, such as salmon oil or flaxseed. Additionally, dog food that contains fruits and vegetables can provide important vitamins and minerals to support overall health.

What are the benefits of feeding dry food versus wet food to hunting dogs?

Feeding dry food versus wet food to hunting dogs can have different benefits. Dry food is generally more convenient and can be left out for dogs to eat throughout the day. It can also help to keep a dog’s teeth clean and healthy. Wet food, on the other hand, can be more palatable for dogs and can help to keep them hydrated. It’s important to choose a high-quality dog food, regardless of whether it is dry or wet.

How can I determine the appropriate portion sizes for my hunting dog based on their activity level?

The appropriate portion size for a hunting dog will depend on their activity level. Generally, active dogs require more calories than less active dogs. Consult with your veterinarian to determine the appropriate portion size for your dog based on their specific needs.

What are some recommended treat options for training and rewarding hunting dogs?

When training and rewarding hunting dogs, it’s important to choose treats that are healthy and nutritious. Look for treats that are high in protein and low in fat. Treats that contain fruits and vegetables can also provide important vitamins and minerals. Some recommended treat options for hunting dogs include freeze-dried meat, jerky, and dehydrated fruits and vegetables.