Best Dog Food for Medium-Sized Dogs: Top Picks and Buying Guide

Feeding your furry friend the right food is essential for their overall health and well-being. If you’re a pet owner of a medium-sized dog, you’ll want to ensure that you’re providing them with the best dog food possible. But with so many options available in the market, it can be overwhelming to choose the right one.

When it comes to selecting the best dog food for medium-sized dogs, there are a few factors to consider. Firstly, you’ll need to ensure that the food is nutritionally balanced and provides all the necessary vitamins and minerals that your pet needs. Secondly, you’ll want to select a food that is appropriate for their age, breed, and activity level. Lastly, you’ll want to choose a food that is tasty and appealing to your furry friend.

After conducting extensive research and testing, we’ve identified the top dog foods that are best suited for medium-sized dogs. These foods are not only nutritionally balanced but also cater to the specific needs of medium-sized dogs.

When selecting the best dog food for your medium-sized dog, it’s crucial to pay attention to the ingredients list. Look for foods that have high-quality protein sources, such as chicken, turkey, or fish. Avoid foods that contain fillers or artificial preservatives, as these can be harmful to your pet’s health.

In this article, we’ll provide you with a comprehensive guide to the best dog food for medium-sized dogs. We’ll review the top brands and their ingredients, so you can make an informed decision about what to feed your furry friend.

Best Dog Food for Medium Sized Dogs

We know that finding the right dog food for your furry friend can be a daunting task, especially when you have a medium sized dog. That’s why we’ve done the research and compiled a list of the best dog foods for medium sized dogs. These products have been chosen based on their quality ingredients, nutritional value, and overall customer satisfaction. Without further ado, here are our top picks for the best dog food for medium sized dogs.

Purina ONE Dry Dog Food Lamb and Rice Formula

If you want to provide your medium-sized dog with a high-protein, nutritious diet, then the Purina ONE Dry Dog Food Lamb and Rice Formula is a great option.

Pros

• The first ingredient is real lamb, which provides high-quality protein for strong muscles and a healthy heart.
• This formula includes natural sources of glucosamine for joint health, vitamins A and E for bright eyes, and omega-6 fatty acids, vitamins, and minerals for a shiny coat and healthy skin.
• The prebiotic fiber in this lamb dog food formula helps maintain your dog’s gut health and provides immune support.

Cons

• Some dogs may not like the taste of lamb.
• This dog food contains rice, which may not be suitable for dogs with grain sensitivities.
• The bag is quite large, so it may be difficult to store if you have limited space.

We recently tried the Purina ONE Dry Dog Food Lamb and Rice Formula for our medium-sized dog, and we were impressed with the results. Our dog loved the taste and eagerly ate up every meal. We also noticed that her coat was shinier and her skin was healthier after a few weeks of eating this food.

One of the things we appreciated about this dog food is that it contains natural sources of glucosamine, which is important for joint health, especially in older dogs. Additionally, the prebiotic fiber in the formula helped maintain our dog’s gut health and provided immune support.

However, we did notice that some dogs may not like the taste of lamb, so it’s important to keep that in mind when deciding whether to purchase this food. Additionally, this formula does contain rice, so it may not be suitable for dogs with grain sensitivities.

Overall, we would definitely recommend the Purina ONE Dry Dog Food Lamb and Rice Formula for medium-sized dogs who need a high-protein, nutritious diet.

Blue Buffalo Life Protection Formula Natural Adult Dry Dog Food, Chicken and Brown Rice 5-lb Trial Size Bag Chicken -amp; Brown Rice 5 Pound (Pack of 1)

If you’re looking for a high-quality dog food for your medium-sized dog, Blue Buffalo Life Protection Formula Natural Adult Dry Dog Food is definitely worth considering.

Pros

• Real meat is always the first ingredient
• Contains essential proteins and carbohydrates to meet energy needs
• Antioxidant-rich LifeSource Bits support immune system health

Cons

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

We recently tried the Chicken and Brown Rice flavor in the 5-lb trial size bag and were impressed with the quality of the ingredients. The fact that real chicken is the first ingredient is a big plus, as it provides high-quality protein to help build and maintain healthy muscles. We also appreciate that there are no chicken (or poultry) by-product meals, no corn, wheat, or soy, and no artificial flavors or preservatives.

One thing we really like about this dog food is the inclusion of antioxidant-rich LifeSource Bits. These are a precise blend of antioxidants, vitamins, and minerals carefully selected by holistic veterinarians and animal nutritionists to support immune system health, life stage needs, and a healthy oxidative balance.

Of course, there are a few potential downsides to consider as well. This dog food is more expensive than some other brands, so it may not be the best choice if you’re on a tight budget. Additionally, some dogs may not like the taste, although we didn’t have any issues with our own dog.

Overall, we think that Blue Buffalo Life Protection Formula Natural Adult Dry Dog Food is an excellent choice for medium-sized dogs. It’s made with high-quality ingredients and contains everything your dog needs to thrive. If you’re looking for a premium dog food that you can feel good about feeding your furry friend, we highly recommend giving this one a try.

Blue Buffalo Life Protection Formula Natural Adult Small Breed Dry Dog Food, Chicken and Brown Rice 5-lb Trial Size Bag Chicken -amp; Brown Rice 5 Pound (Pack of 1)

If you want a high-quality dog food that is made with the finest natural ingredients, then the Blue Buffalo Life Protection Formula Natural Adult Small Breed Dry Dog Food is a great choice. With real chicken first, this diet is made with a precise blend of protein and carbohydrates to support high energy needs. It is formulated specifically for small breed dogs, making it perfect for medium-sized dogs too.

Pros

• The Blue Buffalo Life Protection Formula Natural Adult Small Breed Dry Dog Food is made with real chicken as the first ingredient, which helps your dog build and maintain healthy muscles.
• This dog food contains increased levels of protein and carbohydrates to meet the energy needs of smaller dogs with kibble size ideal for smaller jaws.
• The precise blend of antioxidants, vitamins, and minerals in the Blue Buffalo Life Protection Formula Natural Adult Small Breed Dry Dog Food is carefully selected by holistic veterinarians and animal nutritionists to support immune system health, life stage needs, and a healthy oxidative balance.

Cons

• Some dogs may not like the taste of this dog food.
• This dog food may be more expensive than other brands.
• The packaging may vary, which could be confusing for some pet owners.

We have been using the Blue Buffalo Life Protection Formula Natural Adult Small Breed Dry Dog Food for a few months now, and we have noticed a significant improvement in our medium-sized dog’s energy levels and overall health. The kibble size is perfect for her smaller jaws, and she seems to enjoy the taste of the chicken and brown rice formula. We appreciate that the formula is made with natural ingredients and does not contain any chicken (or poultry) by-product meals, corn, wheat, soy, artificial flavors, or preservatives.

One thing to note is that the formula adjustments may occur from time to time, but these slight adjustments do not impact the guaranteed analysis nor introduce new allergens, so no transition period between formulas is necessary. Overall, we highly recommend the Blue Buffalo Life Protection Formula Natural Adult Small Breed Dry Dog Food for medium-sized dogs who need a high-quality, balanced diet.

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 natural and simple dog food meal complement, Nutro So Simple Wet Dog Meal Complement is a great choice. With only seven natural ingredients, including real chicken and duck, this wet dog food is perfect for medium-sized dogs who need a little extra flavor in their dry food.

Pros

• Made with high-quality protein as the first ingredient, including real chicken and duck
• Contains no grains, chicken by-product meal, corn, wheat or soy, and no artificial flavors, colors or preservatives
• Can be used as a mix-in, topper or snack for added flavor and variety

Cons

• More expensive than some other dog food options
• May not be suitable for dogs with certain dietary restrictions or sensitivities
• Only comes in an 8-count variety pack, limiting flavor options

We’ve tried Nutro So Simple Wet Dog Meal Complement with our medium-sized dog and have been pleased with the results. Our dog loves the added flavor and texture it provides when mixed in with her dry food. We appreciate that it contains only natural ingredients and no artificial additives or fillers.

One thing to keep in mind is that this dog food meal complement is more expensive than some other options on the market. It may not be the best choice for owners on a tight budget. Additionally, if your dog has certain dietary restrictions or sensitivities, you’ll want to check the ingredients carefully to ensure it’s a safe choice.

Overall, if you’re looking for a natural and simple way to add some variety to your dog’s diet, Nutro So Simple Wet Dog Meal Complement is definitely worth considering.

Hill’s Science Diet Dry Dog Food, Adult, Lamb Meal -amp; Brown Rice Recipe, 33 lb. Bag Lamb -amp; Brown Rice 33 Pound (Pack of 1)

If you’re looking for a high-quality dog food that provides your furry friend with all the nutrients they need, Hill’s Science Diet Adult dry dog food is a great option.

Pros

• The easily digestible ingredients in this dry dog food provide adult dogs with the energy they need to stay active and healthy.
• This dry food for adult dogs is packed with omega-6 fatty acids and vitamin E, which help keep your dog’s skin and coat healthy and shiny.
• With high-quality protein, this dry dog food helps your fully grown dog maintain lean muscle.

Cons

• Some dogs may not like the lamb flavor of this dog food.
• This dog food may not be suitable for dogs with certain dietary restrictions or sensitivities.
• This dog food may be more expensive than some other options on the market.

We’ve been using Hill’s Science Diet Adult dry dog food for our medium-sized dog for several months now, and we’ve been very happy with the results. Our dog is full of energy and maintains a healthy weight, and we’ve noticed that his coat is shinier and healthier-looking since we switched to this food.

One thing to keep in mind is that some dogs may not like the lamb flavor of this dog food, so you may need to experiment with different flavors or brands if your dog is a picky eater. Additionally, if your dog has any dietary restrictions or sensitivities, you should talk to your vet before switching to this food.

Overall, we highly recommend Hill’s Science Diet Adult dry dog food for medium-sized dogs who need a high-quality, nutritious diet to stay healthy and happy.

IAMS Proactive Health Large Breed Adult Dry Dog Food Lamb -amp; Rice Recipe

We highly recommend the IAMS Proactive Health Large Breed Adult Dry Dog Food Lamb -amp; Rice Recipe for medium-sized dogs who require a complete and balanced meal.

Pros

• This dog food is 100% complete and balanced, with 0% fillers, ensuring that your dog gets all the nutrients they need to stay healthy.
• It includes natural sources of glucosamine and chondroitin for strong bones and joints, which is especially important for medium-sized breeds prone to joint issues.
• With 7 essential nutrients to support a healthy heart and protein sourced from chicken and egg to support strong, firm muscles, this dog food supports whole body health.

Cons

• Some dogs may not like the taste of lamb and rice, so it’s important to introduce this food slowly and monitor your dog’s reaction.
• The size of the kibble may be too large for smaller medium-sized dogs, so it’s important to consider your dog’s size and chewing habits.
• This dog food is on the pricier side compared to other brands, but the quality of the ingredients justifies the cost.

We recently tried the IAMS Proactive Health Large Breed Adult Dry Dog Food Lamb -amp; Rice Recipe for our medium-sized dog and were impressed with the results. Our dog loved the taste and eagerly ate it at every meal. We noticed an improvement in his coat and overall energy levels, which we attribute to the quality of the ingredients in this dog food.

The kibble size was a bit larger than what our dog was used to, but he had no trouble chewing and digesting it. We also appreciated that this dog food is 100% complete and balanced, with no fillers, ensuring that our dog was getting all the nutrients he needed.

Overall, we highly recommend the IAMS Proactive Health Large Breed Adult Dry Dog Food Lamb -amp; Rice Recipe for medium-sized dogs who need a complete and balanced meal that supports their whole body 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’s packed with protein and free from fillers and artificial ingredients, Stella -amp; Chewy’s Wild Red Dry Dog Food is a great option to consider.

Pros

• Dogs love the delicious and nutritious freeze-dried raw meat coating on every kibble
• Whole prey ingredients provide a protein-rich taste dogs crave with the nutrition they deserve
• Grain-free recipe is easy for dogs of all life stages to digest, with no unnecessary fillers and only the finest ingredients

Cons

• Price point may be higher than some other dog food brands
• Some reviewers have noted that the kibble doesn’t appear to be as heavily coated in raw meat as advertised
• Short shelf life (around 2 months) may be a concern for some pet owners

We recently tried this dog food with our medium-sized dog and were impressed with the quality of the ingredients and the high protein content. Our dog loved the taste and eagerly ate every meal. We appreciated that the recipe is free from artificial colors, flavors, and preservatives, and that it includes a variety of different fish protein sources that are perfect for dogs with poultry allergies.

One thing to note is that the price point for this dog food may be higher than some other brands, but we felt that the quality of the ingredients and the health benefits for our dog made it worth the investment. We also noticed that the shelf life is relatively short (around 2 months), which may be a concern for some pet owners who prefer to buy larger bags of dog food.

Overall, we would highly recommend Stella -amp; Chewy’s Wild Red Dry Dog Food to any pet owner looking for a high-quality, protein-rich dog food that’s free from fillers and artificial ingredients.

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 quality dry dog food for your medium-sized dog, Nature’s Recipe Grain Free Salmon, Sweet Potato -amp; Pumpkin Recipe is definitely worth considering.

Pros

• Real salmon is the number one ingredient, providing quality protein for strong muscles.
• Made with nutrient-dense carbohydrate sources like sweet potato and pumpkin instead of added corn or wheat, which can be hard to digest.
• Contains added vitamins, minerals, and nutrients for the maintenance of adult dogs.

Cons

• Some users have reported that the kibble is too small for larger dogs, which may lead to overeating.
• The bag is not resealable, which can be inconvenient for storing the food.
• Some users have reported that the food has a strong odor.

We’ve been using this dog food for a few weeks now and have noticed a significant improvement in our dog’s coat and overall health. The real salmon provides high-quality protein, and the sweet potato and pumpkin help support healthy digestion.

One thing to note is that the kibble is quite small, which may not be ideal for larger dogs who tend to gulp their food down quickly. However, for medium-sized dogs, it’s the perfect size.

Overall, we highly recommend Nature’s Recipe Grain Free Salmon, Sweet Potato -amp; Pumpkin Recipe for medium-sized dogs who need a high-quality, nutritious dry dog food.

IAMS Proactive Health Minichunks Adult Dry Dog Food

We highly recommend the IAMS Proactive Health Minichunks Adult Dry Dog Food for medium-sized dogs due to its balanced nutrition and health benefits.

Pros

• Provides complete and balanced nutrition for adult dogs with essential nutrients and antioxidants to support a strong immune system.
• Tailored blend of natural fiber and prebiotics supports healthy digestion.
• Formulated to support whole-body health, including 7 essential nutrients to help support a healthy heart.

Cons

• Some dogs may not prefer the taste of this dog food.
• The kibble size may be too small for larger breeds.
• The bag size may be too large for some pet owners.

This dry dog food is made with real chicken and whole grains, ensuring that your dog gets high-quality protein and carbohydrates. The tailored blend of natural fiber and prebiotics supports healthy digestion, while the antioxidants help maintain a strong immune system. This dog food is also formulated to support whole-body health, including 7 essential nutrients to help support a healthy heart.

We appreciate that this dog food is free of fillers and provides complete and balanced nutrition for adult dogs. However, some dogs may not prefer the taste of this dog food, and the kibble size may be too small for larger breeds. Additionally, the bag size may be too large for some pet owners.

Overall, the IAMS Proactive Health Minichunks Adult Dry Dog Food is a great option for medium-sized dogs looking for balanced nutrition and health benefits.

Hill’s Science Diet Pet Nutrition Science Diet Dry Dog Food, Adult, Chicken -amp; Barley Recipe, 35 lb. Bag Chicken -amp; Barley 35 Pound (Pack of 1)

If you’re looking for a dog food that is made with natural ingredients and packed with essential nutrients, Hill’s Science Diet Adult dry dog food is a great option. This dog food is specially formulated to meet the specific energy needs of full-grown dogs and contains high-quality protein, natural fibers, and omega-6s to support lean muscle growth, healthy digestion, and a beautiful coat.

Pros

• Made with natural ingredients that are easy to digest
• Provides a precise balance of omega-6 and vitamin E for healthy skin and coat
• Supports lean muscle growth and maintenance with high-quality protein

Cons

• Some dogs may not like the taste
• Contains grains, which may not be suitable for all dogs
• The price is higher than some other brands

We’ve been using Hill’s Science Diet Adult dry dog food for several months now, and we’ve been very pleased with the results. Our medium-sized dog has a beautiful coat and has maintained a healthy weight since switching to this food. We also appreciate that the ingredients are natural and easy to digest, which has helped with his overall digestion.

One thing to note is that some dogs may not like the taste of this food. While our dog has had no issues with it, we’ve heard from other dog owners that their dogs were not as enthusiastic about the flavor. Additionally, this food contains grains, which may not be suitable for all dogs, especially those with grain sensitivities.

Overall, we would recommend Hill’s Science Diet Adult dry dog food to anyone looking for a high-quality, natural dog food that is packed with essential nutrients. While the price is higher than some other brands, we believe that the benefits are worth it.

Buying Guide

When it comes to choosing the best dog food for medium-sized dogs, there are a few important factors to consider. Here are some features to look for when selecting the right food for your furry friend.

Nutritional Requirements

Medium-sized dogs have specific nutritional needs that should be met by their food. Look for dog food that is formulated for medium-sized dogs and contains a balanced blend of protein, fat, and carbohydrates. Make sure the food provides all the essential vitamins and minerals your dog needs to maintain optimal health.

Ingredient Quality

The quality of the ingredients in your dog’s food is important. Look for dog food that contains high-quality protein sources, such as real meat, instead of by-products or fillers. Avoid dog food that contains artificial preservatives, colors, or flavors.

Special Dietary Needs

If your dog has special dietary needs, such as food allergies or sensitivities, look for dog food that is specifically formulated to meet those needs. Consult with your veterinarian to determine if your dog requires a special diet.

Feeding Schedule

Establishing a regular feeding schedule is important for your dog’s health and well-being. Determine how much food your dog needs each day based on their age, weight, and activity level. Divide the daily amount into two or three meals and feed at the same time each day.

Price

The price of dog food can vary widely. Look for dog food that fits within your budget while still meeting your dog’s nutritional needs. Keep in mind that higher-priced dog food does not necessarily mean it is better quality.

By considering these factors, you can choose the best dog food for your medium-sized dog. Remember to consult with your veterinarian if you have any questions or concerns about your dog’s diet.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the top vet-recommended dog foods for medium-sized breeds?

When it comes to choosing the best dog food for your medium-sized dog, it’s always a good idea to consult with your veterinarian. However, some of the top vet-recommended dog food brands for medium-sized breeds include Royal Canin, Hill’s Science Diet, and Purina Pro Plan.

Which dry dog food brands are considered the best for medium-sized dogs?

There are several dry dog food brands that are considered the best for medium-sized dogs. Some of these include Blue Buffalo, Wellness, and Taste of the Wild. These brands offer a variety of high-quality ingredients that can help keep your dog healthy and happy.

How do I choose the healthiest dog food for my medium-sized dog?

When choosing the healthiest dog food for your medium-sized dog, it’s important to look for a brand that offers high-quality ingredients, such as real meat, vegetables, and fruits. You should also consider your dog’s specific dietary needs, such as any allergies or sensitivities they may have. Additionally, you should look for a brand that has been certified by the Association of American Feed Control Officials (AAFCO).

What ingredients should I look for in high-quality dog food for medium breeds?

Some of the key ingredients to look for in high-quality dog food for medium breeds include real meat, such as chicken, beef, or lamb, as well as vegetables and fruits, such as sweet potatoes, peas, and blueberries. You should also look for a brand that includes essential vitamins and minerals, such as calcium, vitamin D, and omega-3 fatty acids.

Are there any dog food brands that experts suggest avoiding for medium-sized dogs?

While there are many high-quality dog food brands available, there are also some brands that experts suggest avoiding for medium-sized dogs. Some of these include brands that use fillers, such as corn or soy, as well as brands that use artificial preservatives or flavors.

What are the benefits of feeding my medium-sized dog grain-free food?

Grain-free dog food can be a good option for medium-sized dogs that have allergies or sensitivities to grains. Additionally, some owners prefer grain-free food because it can be easier for dogs to digest. However, it’s important to note that not all dogs need a grain-free diet, and it’s always a good idea to consult with your veterinarian before making any major changes to your dog’s diet.