Best Dog Food for Medium Sized Dogs: Top Picks for Optimal Nutrition

Medium sized dogs are a popular breed among pet owners. They are not too big or too small, making them an ideal choice for families with children or those living in apartments. However, choosing the right dog food for your medium sized dog can be a daunting task. With so many options available, it can be challenging to determine which one is the best for your furry friend.

When it comes to dog food, there are several factors to consider, including the dog’s age, activity level, and health conditions. Medium sized dogs require a balanced diet that provides them with all the necessary nutrients to maintain their health and energy levels. The right dog food can also help prevent health issues such as obesity, diabetes, and joint problems.

When shopping for dog food for your medium sized dog, it’s essential to pay attention to the ingredients. Look for dog food that contains high-quality protein sources such as chicken, beef, or fish. Avoid dog food that contains fillers or artificial preservatives. It’s also essential to choose dog food that is appropriate for your dog’s age and activity level.

After researching and testing various dog food brands, we have identified the best dog food for medium sized dogs. Our top picks provide a balanced diet, high-quality protein sources, and essential nutrients to keep your furry friend healthy and happy.

Best Dog Food for Medium Sized Dogs

As dog owners, we know that providing our furry friends with the best nutrition is crucial to their health and happiness. Finding the right food for your medium-sized dog can be a daunting task, with so many options available on the market. That’s why we’ve researched and tested various brands to bring you our top picks for the best dog food for medium-sized dogs. Our list includes options for different dietary needs and preferences, so you can find the perfect match for your pup.

Purina ONE Dry Dog Food Lamb and Rice Formula – 31.1 lb. Bag

If you’re looking for a high-quality dog food for your medium-sized dog, we recommend the Purina ONE Natural Lamb and Rice Formula With Added Vitamins, Minerals and Nutrients dry dog food.

Pros

• This natural dog food has a Purina ONE SmartBlend of high-quality ingredients, including quality carbohydrate sources, that helps support dog nutritional needs.
• Real lamb is the first ingredient in this high protein dog food kibble, helping supply protein for dogs that helps supports strong muscles, including his healthy heart.
• Natural sources of glucosamine for dogs support joint health, vitamins A and E promote bright eyes, and omega-6 fatty acids, vitamins and minerals nourish a shiny coat and healthy skin.

Cons

• Some dogs may not like the taste of lamb and rice.
• The kibble may be too large for small dogs.
• The bag is quite heavy and may be difficult to handle for some.

We’ve been using this dog food for our own medium-sized dog for several months now and have noticed a significant improvement in his overall health and energy levels. The high-quality ingredients and added vitamins and nutrients have helped to support his immune system and maintain a healthy weight.

One of the best things about this dog food is that it is made with prebiotic fiber, which helps to maintain your dog’s gut health and provide immune support. Additionally, the formula is highly digestible, making it easy for your dog to absorb the nutrients he needs.

Overall, we highly recommend the Purina ONE Natural Lamb and Rice Formula With Added Vitamins, Minerals and Nutrients dry dog food for medium-sized dogs. It’s a great choice for pet owners who want to provide their dogs with high-quality nutrition and support their overall health and wellbeing.

Blue Buffalo Life Protection Formula Natural Adult Dry Dog Food, Chicken and Brown Rice 5-lb Trial Size Bag

If you’re looking for a natural dog food that is packed with essential nutrients, then Blue Buffalo Life Protection Formula Natural Adult Dry Dog Food is a great choice.

Pros

• Real meat as the first ingredient
• Antioxidant-rich Lifesource Bits
• Made with the finest natural ingredients

Cons

• Packaging may vary
• Formula adjustments
• Higher price point

We recently tried the Chicken and Brown Rice 5-lb Trial Size Bag and were impressed with the quality of the ingredients. The first ingredient is real chicken, which is a great source of high-quality protein to help build and maintain healthy muscles. The Lifesource Bits are a precise blend of antioxidants, vitamins, and minerals that support immune system health and a healthy oxidative balance.

One thing to note is that the packaging may vary, so don’t be surprised if the bag looks slightly different than what you see online. Also, the company makes slight formula adjustments from time to time, but these changes don’t impact the Guaranteed Analysis or introduce new allergens.

While this dog food is on the higher end of the price spectrum, we feel that the quality of the ingredients justifies the cost. Plus, the 5-lb Trial Size Bag is a great way to try out the food before committing to a larger bag.

Overall, we highly recommend Blue Buffalo Life Protection Formula Natural Adult Dry Dog Food for medium sized dogs. It’s a natural dog food that is packed with essential nutrients to help keep your dog healthy and happy.

Blue Buffalo Life Protection Formula Natural Adult Small Breed Dry Dog Food, Chicken and Brown Rice 5-lb Trial Size Bag

If you’re looking for a high-quality, natural dog food for your medium-sized furry friend, we highly recommend Blue Buffalo Life Protection Formula Natural Adult Small Breed Dry Dog Food.

Pros

• Real meat is always the first ingredient, with high-quality protein from real chicken to help your dog build and maintain healthy muscles.
• Exclusive antioxidant-rich LifeSource Bits are included to support immune system health, life stage needs, and a healthy oxidative balance.
• The kibble size is ideal for smaller jaws, making it easier for your furry friend to chew and digest.

Cons

• Some dogs may not like the taste of this food, as every dog has unique preferences when it comes to food.
• The price point may be higher than other dog food brands, but the quality of the ingredients justifies the cost.
• The packaging may vary, which can be confusing for some pet owners.

We’ve been using Blue Buffalo Life Protection Formula for our medium-sized dog for the past few months, and we’ve noticed a significant improvement in her overall health and wellbeing. The real chicken first ingredient provides her with the protein she needs to maintain her muscle mass, while the antioxidant-rich LifeSource Bits support her immune system and overall health.

The kibble size is perfect for her smaller jaws, and she has no trouble chewing and digesting the food. We appreciate that Blue Buffalo uses only the finest natural ingredients, with no chicken (or poultry) by-product meals, corn, wheat, soy, artificial flavors, or preservatives.

While the price point may be higher than other dog food brands, we believe that the quality of the ingredients justifies the cost. Plus, the 5-lb trial size bag is a great way to try out the food before committing to a larger bag.

Overall, we highly recommend Blue Buffalo Life Protection Formula Natural Adult Small Breed Dry Dog Food for medium-sized dogs who need a high-quality, natural diet to support their health and wellbeing.

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 are looking for a nutritious dog food for your medium-sized furry friend, Nature’s Recipe Grain Free Salmon, Sweet Potato -amp; Pumpkin Recipe is worth considering. We love this dog food because it is made with wholesome ingredients that dogs love and is formulated by expert pet nutritionists.

Pros

• Real salmon is the number one ingredient, making it a quality protein source that helps maintain optimal muscle strength.
• The fiber from sweet potatoes and pumpkin helps support healthy digestion and immune system health.
• The omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids from salmon help support skin and coat health.

Cons

• Some customers have reported that the kibble looks and smells different from previous orders.
• The price may be higher than some other dog food brands.
• Not all dogs may like the taste of the salmon flavor.

We have been using this dog food for a few months now, and we have noticed a significant improvement in our dog’s coat and energy levels. The kibble size is perfect for medium-sized dogs, and we appreciate that it is grain-free and made with nutrient-dense carbohydrate sources like sweet potato and pumpkin instead of added corn or wheat.

One thing to note is that some customers have reported that the kibble looks and smells different from previous orders. However, we have not experienced this issue ourselves. Additionally, the price may be higher than some other dog food brands, but we believe that the quality of the ingredients justifies the cost.

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

ZIWI Peak Air-Dried Dog Food

If you’re looking for a high-quality dog food for your medium-sized dog, ZIWI Peak Air-Dried Dog Food is definitely worth considering.

Pros

• The high protein, nutrient-dense formula features 96% wild-caught mackerel and free-range lamb, organs, bone, and New Zealand green mussels. The ingredients are air-dried to retain their nutritional value and taste, making it perfect for picky eaters.
• It’s grain-free and low in carbs, with only two protein sources, making it ideal for dogs with food sensitivities. It doesn’t contain any cheap fillers such as grain, potato, or peas, which can cause obesity, food allergies, and other health issues.
• The food contains a 10% superfood boost, including cold-washed green tripe, New Zealand green mussels, and organic kelp. These holistic ingredients support digestion, healthy skin and coat, joint health, reduce inflammation, and promote heart and brain health.

Cons

• It’s more expensive than some other dog foods on the market, but the high-quality ingredients and nutrition make it worth the investment.
• Some dogs may not like the taste of the mackerel and lamb blend.
• The food is only available in one-pound bags, which may not be convenient for all pet owners.

Overall, we highly recommend ZIWI Peak Air-Dried Dog Food for medium-sized dogs. It’s a high-quality, nutritious food that’s perfect as a topper or complete meal for all life stages. The food is optimized for puppy to senior dogs, including small and large dog breeds. Plus, it’s ethically sourced, with all ingredients coming from New Zealand farms and oceans, and free from added hormones, antibiotics, or growth promotants.

Rachael Ray Nutrish Premium Natural Dry Dog Food, Real Chicken -amp; Veggies Recipe, 40 Pound Bag

If you’re looking for a high-quality dog food that’s affordable and packed with nutritious ingredients, then Rachael Ray Nutrish Real Chicken -amp; Veggies Recipe dry dog food might be just what you need.

Pros

• Real chicken is the #1 ingredient, providing a good source of protein that helps support healthy organs and maintain lean muscle mass.
• Fiber sources including peas and brown rice help support healthy digestion, while also providing your dog with a source of energy.
• No poultry by-product meal, fillers, or added wheat or wheat gluten ingredients, and no artificial flavors or artificial preservatives.

Cons

• Some customers have reported that it took their dog a few weeks to transition from the puppy formulation of the same product to the adult version, resulting in loose stools.
• The kibble size may not be the right fit for all dogs.
• The packaging may vary, so you might not receive the exact bag shown in the product image.

We’ve been using Rachael Ray Nutrish Real Chicken -amp; Veggies Recipe dry dog food for a few months now, and we’re impressed with the results. Our medium-sized dog seems to love the taste, and we’ve noticed that her coat looks shinier and healthier than before. We also appreciate that the ingredients are high-quality and that there are no artificial additives or fillers.

One thing to note is that the kibble size may not be the right fit for all dogs. Our dog has no problem with it, but we’ve heard from other customers that their dogs have had trouble chewing and digesting the kibble. Additionally, some customers have reported that it took their dog a few weeks to transition from the puppy formulation of the same product to the adult version, resulting in loose stools.

Overall, we think that Rachael Ray Nutrish Real Chicken -amp; Veggies Recipe dry dog food is a great choice for medium-sized dogs. It’s affordable, nutritious, and made with high-quality ingredients that are sure to keep your furry friend happy and healthy.

Rachael Ray Nutrish Premium Natural Dry Dog Food, Real Beef, Pea, -amp; Brown Rice Recipe, 40 Pound Bag

If you are looking for a natural and nutritious dog food option for your medium-sized dog, you should definitely consider Rachael Ray Nutrish Premium Natural Dry Dog Food. This dog food is made with real beef, peas, and brown rice, and it contains added vitamins, minerals, and taurine to support your dog’s overall health.

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.
• Nutrish’s 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.

Cons

• Some dogs may not like the taste or texture of the food.
• The kibble size may be too big or too small for some dogs.
• The price may be higher than some other dog food brands.

We have been using Rachael Ray Nutrish Premium Natural Dry Dog Food for our medium-sized dog for several months now, and we have noticed a significant improvement in his overall health and well-being. He seems to have more energy and his coat looks shinier and healthier.

The real beef flavor is a hit with our dog, and we appreciate that the food contains no fillers, artificial flavors, or preservatives. We also love that a portion of the proceeds from the sale of every Nutrish dog food product is donated to The Rachael Ray Foundation, which helps animals in need.

Overall, we highly recommend Rachael Ray Nutrish Premium Natural Dry Dog Food for medium-sized dogs who need a nutritious and delicious food option.

Nature’s Recipe Original Dry Dog Food for Adult Dogs, Lamb -amp; Rice Recipe, 24 lb Bag

If you’re looking for a delicious and nutritious way to help keep your medium-sized dog happy and healthy, Nature’s Recipe Original dry dog food might be the perfect choice. The lamb and rice recipe features real, protein-rich lamb as the #1 ingredient to help support strong muscles. Meanwhile, nutrient-dense whole grains, such as rice, oatmeal, and barley, contain fiber to help support healthy digestion. And because Nature’s Recipe believes that every ingredient counts, this wholesome dog food is made with no added corn, wheat, soy, or artificial flavors, colors, or preservatives.

Pros

• Real, protein-rich lamb as the #1 ingredient to help support strong muscles
• Nutrient-dense whole grains, such as rice, oatmeal, and barley, contain fiber to help support healthy digestion
• Made with no added corn, wheat, soy, or artificial flavors, colors, or preservatives

Cons

• Some dogs may not like the taste
• Some owners may prefer a grain-free option
• May not be suitable for dogs with certain dietary restrictions

We have been using Nature’s Recipe Original dry dog food for our medium-sized dog for several months now, and we have been pleased with the results. Our dog seems to enjoy the taste and has maintained a healthy weight. We appreciate that the ingredients are of good quality and that there are no added fillers or artificial additives. The lamb and rice recipe is a nice change from the usual chicken or beef flavors that are commonly available.

One thing to note is 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. Additionally, some owners may prefer a grain-free option, but we have found that the whole grains in this food have been beneficial for our dog’s digestion. Lastly, if your dog has certain dietary restrictions, such as needing a low-fat or low-protein diet, this food may not be suitable for them.

Overall, we would recommend Nature’s Recipe Original dry dog food for medium-sized dogs who are looking for a high-quality, nutritious food that is free from fillers and artificial additives.

IAMS Proactive Health Minichunks Adult Dry Dog Food

We highly recommend purchasing IAMS Proactive Health Minichunks Adult Dry Dog Food for your medium-sized dog.

Pros

• The smaller kibble size makes mealtime more enjoyable for particular pups.
• Made with real chicken as the first ingredient.
• Enriched with antioxidants to help support your dog’s immune health.

Cons

• Some dogs may not like the taste.
• May cause digestive issues in some dogs.
• Slightly more expensive than other brands.

We have been using IAMS Proactive Health Minichunks Adult Dry Dog Food for our medium-sized dog for several months now and have noticed a significant improvement in his overall health and energy levels. The smaller kibble size is perfect for his size and he seems to enjoy the taste. We also appreciate that it is made with real chicken as the first ingredient and includes essential nutrients to support a healthy heart.

While we have not experienced any issues with digestive health, we have read reviews from other customers who have had some problems with their dogs experiencing diarrhea or vomiting after switching to this brand. Additionally, some dogs may not enjoy the taste of this food, so it may take some trial and error to find the right brand for your pup.

Overall, we believe that IAMS Proactive Health Minichunks Adult Dry Dog Food is a great choice for medium-sized dogs and highly recommend giving it a try.

Rachael Ray Nutrish Premium Natural Dry Dog Food

We highly recommend this product for medium-sized dogs who need a healthy and tasty meal.

Pros

• The number one ingredient is real beef which helps support healthy organs and maintain lean muscle mass.
• 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.
• A portion of the proceeds from the sale of every Nutrish dog food product will be donated to The Rachael Ray Foundation, which helps animals in need.

Cons

• Some dogs may not like the taste of the food.
• The price may be higher compared to other dog food brands.
• The kibble size may be too large for some dogs.

We have been using Rachael Ray Nutrish Real Beef, Pea -amp; Brown Rice Recipe for our medium-sized dog for several months now and we are very satisfied with the results. Our dog loves the taste of the food and always finishes his meal. We also noticed that his coat is shinier and he has more energy after switching to this product.

The Whole Health Blend is a great addition to the food as it provides essential nutrients for our dog’s overall health. We also appreciate that a portion of the proceeds from the sale of this product goes to a good cause.

However, we noticed that some dogs may not like the taste of the food, so it may take some time for them to get used to it. The price may also be higher compared to other dog food brands, but we think the quality of the product justifies the cost.

Overall, we highly recommend Rachael Ray Nutrish Real Beef, Pea -amp; Brown Rice Recipe for medium-sized dogs who need a healthy and tasty meal.

Buying Guide

When it comes to choosing the best dog food for your medium-sized dog, there are several factors to consider. Here are some features that you should look for when selecting a product:

Nutritional Value

The nutritional value of the dog food is the most important factor to consider when selecting a product. Look for dog food that contains high-quality protein, carbohydrates, and fats. The protein source should be the first ingredient listed on the label. Additionally, the dog food should contain essential vitamins and minerals to ensure that your dog gets a balanced diet.

Ingredients

It is essential to read the label of the dog food to know what ingredients are included. Avoid dog food that contains fillers, artificial preservatives, and additives. Look for dog food that contains natural ingredients such as fruits, vegetables, and whole grains.

Age and Health

Consider your dog’s age and health when selecting a dog food. For example, puppies and senior dogs have different nutritional requirements than adult dogs. Additionally, if your dog has any health issues, you may need to choose a dog food that is specially formulated to meet their needs.

Brand Reputation

Choose a dog food brand that has a good reputation. Look for brands that have been in business for a long time and have a proven track record of producing high-quality dog food. You can also read reviews and ask for recommendations from other dog owners.

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?

We recommend consulting with your veterinarian to determine the best dog food for your medium-sized dog. However, some of the top vet-recommended dog food brands for medium breeds include Royal Canin, Hill’s Science Diet, and Purina Pro Plan.

Which dry dog foods are considered the healthiest for medium-sized dogs?

Dry dog foods that are considered healthy for medium-sized dogs include those that are high in protein and low in fillers and artificial additives. Some examples of healthy dry dog foods for medium breeds include Orijen, Acana, and Wellness Core.

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

High-quality medium dog food should contain natural, whole food ingredients such as real meat, vegetables, and fruits. Avoid dog foods that contain fillers, artificial preservatives, and by-products. Look for dog foods that are high in protein and low in carbohydrates.

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

Some dog food brands have been associated with health problems in dogs and are generally recommended to be avoided. These include brands such as Ol’ Roy, Kibbles ‘n Bits, and Beneful.

How do I choose the best dog food for my medium-sized dog’s specific health needs?

Consult with your veterinarian to determine your medium-sized dog’s specific health needs. Depending on your dog’s age, activity level, and any health conditions, your veterinarian may recommend a specific type of dog food or ingredients to look for.

What are the differences between premium and budget dog food for medium breeds?

Premium dog foods for medium breeds typically contain higher quality ingredients and are free from fillers and artificial additives. Budget dog foods may contain lower quality ingredients and fillers. However, it’s important to note that not all premium dog foods are necessarily better for your dog than budget options. It’s important to read the ingredients list and consult with your veterinarian to determine the best dog food for your medium-sized dog.