Best Dog Foods with Grain: Top Picks for a Balanced Diet

Grain-free dog food has been a popular choice for many pet owners in recent years, but there are still plenty of high-quality dog foods that contain grains. In fact, some dogs may even benefit from a diet that includes grains, as long as they are not allergic or intolerant to them.

When it comes to choosing the best dog food with grains, there are a few things to keep in mind. First, it’s important to look for a high-quality source of grains, such as brown rice, oats, or quinoa. These grains provide important nutrients like fiber, vitamins, and minerals that can help support your dog’s overall health.

Another important factor to consider is the protein source in the dog food. Look for a dog food that contains a high-quality source of animal protein, such as chicken, beef, or fish. This will help ensure that your dog is getting the essential amino acids they need to build and maintain strong muscles.

At the end of the day, the best dog food with grains is one that meets your dog’s individual needs and preferences. We spent hours researching and testing various brands of dog food to identify the top options for dogs who thrive on a diet that includes grains.

Best Dog Foods with Grain

We understand that some pet owners prefer to feed their dogs food that contains grains. While grain-free diets are popular, they are not always necessary for every dog. In fact, some dogs may benefit from the nutritional value that grains provide. That’s why we have put together a list of the best dog foods with grain. Our team of experts has researched and tested various brands to bring you a selection of high-quality dog foods that contain grains and are sure to keep your furry friend healthy and happy.

Blue Buffalo Wilderness High Protein Natural Adult Dry Dog Food plus Wholesome Grains, Salmon 13 lb bag

If you’re looking for a dog food that is packed with real salmon and wholesome grains, Blue Buffalo Wilderness High Protein Natural Adult Dry Dog Food plus Wholesome Grains, Salmon 13 lb bag is worth considering.

Pros

• Made with high-quality deboned salmon to support the development of strong, lean, healthy muscles
• Contains complex carbohydrates from wholesome grains, including oatmeal, barley, and brown rice
• Enhanced with LifeSource Bits, a precise blend of antioxidants, vitamins, and minerals to support immune system health, life stage needs, and a healthy oxidative balance

Cons

• Some customers have reported an “off” smell to the food
• A few dogs have experienced diarrhea after consuming this product
• It may be more expensive than some other dog food brands

We have been feeding our dog Blue Buffalo Wilderness High Protein Natural Adult Dry Dog Food plus Wholesome Grains, Salmon 13 lb bag for several months now and have been pleased with the results. Our dog has maintained a healthy weight and seems to enjoy the taste of the food.

One thing we appreciate about this dog food is that it is made with high-quality ingredients and contains no chicken (or poultry) by-product meals, no corn, wheat, or soy, and no artificial flavors or preservatives. We also like that it is formulated specifically for adult dogs and contains a balanced blend of protein, fat, and complex carbohydrates.

However, we have noticed that the food can have a strong smell, which may be off-putting to some dogs. Additionally, we have heard from a few other dog owners that their dogs experienced diarrhea after consuming this product.

Overall, if you’re looking for a high-quality dog food with real salmon and wholesome grains, Blue Buffalo Wilderness High Protein Natural Adult Dry Dog Food plus Wholesome Grains, Salmon 13 lb bag is worth considering. However, be aware of the potential for an “off” smell and digestive issues in some dogs.

ORIJEN AMAZING GRAINS Original Dry Dog Food

If you’re looking for a high-quality dog food that includes grains, ORIJEN AMAZING GRAINS Original Dry Dog Food is a great option.

Pros

• Made with 90% animal ingredients, including fresh or raw chicken, turkey, chicken liver, whole herring, and whole mackerel
• Includes DHA and EPA from whole herring, mackerel, and pollock oil to support immune function, healthy skin, and a shiny coat
• Contains prebiotics, probiotics, and soluble and insoluble fiber from inulin and the most amazing grains to support digestive health

Cons

• Strong fish smell
• Kibble looks different than the grain-free version
• Heavy bag

We’ve been using ORIJEN AMAZING GRAINS Original Dry Dog Food for a few months now, and we’re impressed with the quality of the ingredients. Our dog loves the taste and consistently finishes her meals. We appreciate that the first five ingredients are fresh or raw poultry and fish, giving her a strong source of protein, vitamins, and minerals.

One thing to note is that the kibble has a strong fish smell, which might be off-putting to some. Additionally, the kibble looks different than the grain-free version, with smaller and more irregular pieces. Finally, the bag is quite heavy, so be prepared for that when it arrives.

Overall, we highly recommend ORIJEN AMAZING GRAINS Original Dry Dog Food for those looking for a high-quality dog food with grains. It’s packed with animal protein and quality grains to nourish your dog completely.

ACANA Wholesome Grains Dry Dog Food, Red Meat and Grains, Gluten Free, Beef, Pork, and Lamb Recipe, 22.5lb Red Meat 22.5 Pound (Pack of 1)

If you are looking for a high-quality dog food that is rich in protein and contains wholesome grains, ACANA Wholesome Grains Dry Dog Food is a great option. With farm-raised beef, Yorkshire pork, and raw lamb as its main ingredients, this dog food is balanced to include 60% high-quality animal ingredients and 40% wholesome grains, fruit, vegetables, and nutrients.

Pros

• The fiber-rich grain blend, featuring oats, sorghum, and millet, plus pre- and probiotics for dogs, helps provide dog digestive support.
• Naturally occurring Omega-3 -amp; Omega-6 fatty acids help support healthy skin and a shiny coat.
• Antioxidant-rich ingredients help support a healthy immune system.

Cons

• The cost may be higher than some other dog food brands.
• Some dogs may not like the taste or texture of the food.
• The bag may not be resealable, which can make storing the food difficult.

We recently tried this dog food with our furry friend and were pleased with the results. Our dog seemed to enjoy the taste and texture of the food, and we noticed an improvement in her coat and overall health. The fiber-rich grain blend helped with her digestion, and we appreciated the inclusion of pre- and probiotics to support her gut health. While the cost was higher than some other brands, we felt that the quality of the ingredients and the benefits to our dog’s health were worth it.

Overall, if you are looking for a high-quality dog food that is rich in protein and contains wholesome grains, we would recommend giving ACANA Wholesome Grains Dry Dog Food a try.

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 contains no grains, chicken by-product meal, corn, wheat or soy, Nutro So Simple Wet Dog Meal Complement is a great option. Made with only 7 natural ingredients, including real chicken and duck, this delicious wet dog meal complement is perfect to mix in with your dog’s favorite Nutro Dry Dog Food for added flavor and ultimate tail wags.

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 options
• Some clumping may occur when shaken
• Not suitable for dogs with certain dietary restrictions

We’ve been using Nutro So Simple Wet Dog Meal Complement for a few weeks now and our dog absolutely loves it. The simple recipe makes us feel great about keeping it simple with only a handful of ingredients and lots of flavor. We’ve also noticed that our dog’s coat looks shinier and healthier since we started using this as a mix-in with his dry food.

One thing to keep in mind is that this product is a bit more expensive compared to other options on the market. Additionally, some clumping may occur when shaken, but it doesn’t seem to affect the overall quality of the product. Finally, if your dog has certain dietary restrictions, this product may not be suitable for them.

Overall, we highly recommend Nutro So Simple Wet Dog Meal Complement as a natural and simple option to mix in with your dog’s dry 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)

We highly recommend Nature’s Recipe Grain Free Salmon, Sweet Potato -amp; Pumpkin Recipe for those who want to give their dogs a nutritious and delicious meal. With real salmon as the number one ingredient, this dry dog food is packed with protein to help maintain optimal muscle strength. Its nutrient-dense carbohydrate sources like sweet potato and pumpkin make it a healthy and grain-free option for your furry friend.

Pros

• Real salmon as the number one ingredient
• Nutrient-dense carbohydrate sources like sweet potato and pumpkin instead of added corn or wheat
• Omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids from salmon help support skin and coat health

Cons

• Some customers reported receiving a different-looking and smelling product
• A bit expensive compared to other dog food brands
• Some dogs may not like the taste

This dog food is formulated by expert pet nutritionists, and every single ingredient is picked with a purpose. It contains added vitamins, minerals, and nutrients for the maintenance of adult dogs. The fiber from sweet potatoes and pumpkin helps support healthy digestion and immune system health. Antioxidants zinc and vitamin E help support a healthy immune system, while taurine helps support a healthy heart.

Many customers have reported that their dogs love the taste of this dog food and have seen improvements in their dog’s skin and coat health. However, some customers have reported receiving a different-looking and smelling product, which may be a concern for some. Additionally, this dog food is a bit expensive compared to other dog food brands, which may not be ideal for those on a tight budget. Some dogs may also not like the taste, so it is important to introduce this dog food slowly to avoid any digestive issues.

Overall, Nature’s Recipe Grain Free Salmon, Sweet Potato -amp; Pumpkin Recipe is a great option for those who want to give their dogs a healthy and grain-free meal. With its real salmon and nutrient-dense carbohydrate sources, this dog food is a nutritious and delicious choice for your furry friend.

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 are looking for a high-quality dog food with grain, Stella -amp; Chewy’s Wild Red Dry Dog Food Raw Coated High Protein Grain -amp; Legume Free Ocean Recipe is a great option to consider.

Pros

• Love Is Raw: The freeze-dried raw meat coating provides a protein-rich taste that dogs love.
• Whole Prey Ingredients: The recipe contains 86% animal muscle meat, cartilage, and organ meat, which is similar to what dogs ate in the wild.
• Supports Whole Body Health: The formula is fortified with vitamins, minerals, and amino acids to improve your dog’s overall well-being.

Cons

• Price: This dog food is more expensive than some other options on the market.
• Short Expiration Date: Some customers have reported that the product has a short expiration date.
• Not Suitable for All Dogs: This recipe may not be suitable for dogs with certain dietary restrictions.

We have been using Stella -amp; Chewy’s Wild Red Dry Dog Food Raw Coated High Protein Grain -amp; Legume Free Ocean Recipe for several months now, and we have been very pleased with the results. Our dog loves the taste of the freeze-dried raw meat coating, and we love that the recipe contains whole prey ingredients.

The formula is also fortified with vitamins, minerals, and amino acids, which helps to support our dog’s overall health and well-being. However, we do recognize that this dog food is more expensive than some other options on the market, and it may not be suitable for all dogs.

Overall, if you are looking for a high-quality dog food with grain that is packed with protein and other essential nutrients, Stella -amp; Chewy’s Wild Red Dry Dog Food Raw Coated High Protein Grain -amp; Legume Free Ocean Recipe is definitely worth considering.

ORIJEN Original Dry Dog Food

If you are looking for a high-quality dog food that is packed with protein and nutrients, then ORIJEN Original Dry Dog Food is an excellent choice.

Pros

• Made with 85% fresh or raw quality animal ingredients like free-run chicken, free-run turkey, and wild-caught fish
• Contains naturally occurring Omega-3 and Omega-6 fatty acids to support healthy skin and a shiny coat
• Packed with antioxidant-rich ingredients and Vitamin E to help support a healthy immune system

Cons

• Produced in a facility that also processes grains
• Pricey compared to some other dog foods on the market
• Some dogs may not like the taste or texture of the kibble

We have been using ORIJEN Original Dry Dog Food for several months now, and we have been very impressed with the results. Our dog has a shiny coat, plenty of energy, and seems to love the taste of the kibble.

One of the things we love about this dog food is that it is made with the most succulent and nutrient-rich parts of the prey, including organs and bones. This gives our dog a strong source of protein, vitamins, and minerals.

We also appreciate that this dog food is made in the USA with quality ingredients from around the world. The fact that it is grain-free is a plus, as many dogs have allergies or sensitivities to grains.

One downside to this dog food is that it is produced in a facility that also processes grains, so if your dog has a severe grain allergy, this may not be the best choice for them. Additionally, this dog food is a bit pricey compared to some other options on the market.

Overall, we highly recommend ORIJEN Original Dry Dog Food for anyone looking for a high-quality dog food that is packed with protein and nutrients.

ZIWI Peak Air-Dried Dog Food

If you’re looking for a high-quality dog food with grain, ZIWI Peak Air-Dried Dog Food is an excellent option. With a nutrient-dense recipe featuring 96% wild-caught mackerel and free-range lamb, this dog food is perfect for picky eaters who need a boost of nutrition.

Pros

• Authentic whole-prey ratios for peak nutrition and taste
• Grain-free and low-carb for food-sensitive dogs
• Holistic superfood ingredients to support digestion, skin and coat, joint health, inflammation reduction, and heart and brain health

Cons

• Expensive compared to other dog foods
• Some dogs may not like the taste
• Not widely available in all stores

We’ve found that ZIWI Peak Air-Dried Dog Food is a great option for dogs with food sensitivities or allergies. The high-protein, grain-free recipe is easy to digest and provides a complete and balanced meal for all life stages. Plus, the addition of superfood ingredients like cold-washed green tripe, New Zealand green mussels, and organic kelp make this dog food a healthy choice for your furry friend.

One thing to keep in mind is that ZIWI Peak Air-Dried Dog Food is more expensive than other dog foods on the market. However, we believe the quality of the ingredients and the health benefits for your dog make it worth the investment. Additionally, some dogs may not enjoy the taste of mackerel and lamb, so it’s important to introduce this food gradually and monitor your dog’s reaction.

Overall, we highly recommend ZIWI Peak Air-Dried Dog Food for pet owners looking for a high-quality dog food with grain. It’s a great option for dogs with food sensitivities or allergies, and the addition of superfood ingredients provides extra health benefits.

Merrick Healthy Grains Premium Adult Dry Dog Food, Wholesome And Natural Kibble With Beef And Brown Rice – 25.0 lb. Bag 25 Pound (Pack of 1)

If you’re looking for a dry dog food that’s both wholesome and natural, Merrick Healthy Grains Premium Adult Dry Dog Food with Beef and Brown Rice is an excellent choice. We’ve tried this product with our furry friends and here’s our take on it.

Pros

• Real deboned beef as the first ingredient provides high-quality protein for your dog’s muscle development.
• The blend of whole grains like oats and ancient grains promotes healthy digestion and provides a good source of carbohydrates for your dog’s energy needs.
• The added vitamins and minerals, along with omega-6 and omega-3 fatty acids, help nourish your dog’s skin and coat.

Cons

• Some dogs may not like the taste of the beef kibble with ancient grains.
• The product is not suitable for dogs with potato, pea, or lentil allergies.
• The price may be a bit higher compared to other dog food brands with grain.

In our experience, Merrick Healthy Grains Premium Adult Dry Dog Food provides a balanced and nutritious meal for our dogs. The real beef and whole grains make it a healthy and tasty option for our furry friends. Our dogs also seem to have an easier time digesting this product compared to other dog foods with grain.

We appreciate that the product contains no artificial colors, flavors, or preservatives. It’s also made in the USA, so we feel confident that we’re giving our dogs a high-quality product. The added glucosamine and chondroitin provide hip and joint support, which is especially important for adult dogs.

Overall, we highly recommend Merrick Healthy Grains Premium Adult Dry Dog Food with Beef and Brown Rice. It’s a great choice for pet owners who want to give their dogs a wholesome and natural meal with added vitamins and minerals.

The Honest Kitchen Whole Food Clusters Whole Grain Beef -amp; Oat Dry Dog Food

If you’re looking for a high-quality dog food with whole grains, The Honest Kitchen Whole Food Clusters Whole Grain Beef -amp; Oat Dry Dog Food is an excellent choice.

Pros

• Made with 100% human-grade ingredients
• Contains beneficial fats and live probiotics
• Free of potatoes and legumes

Cons

• More expensive than some other dog foods
• Not suitable for puppies or pregnant/nursing dogs
• Some dogs may not like the taste or texture

We love that this dog food is made with human-grade ingredients, which gives us peace of mind that our furry friend is getting the best possible nutrition. The clusters are made by mixing nutrient-rich whole foods, cold pressing them into bite-sized pieces, and then gently roasting and dehydrating them to maintain the nutrients, aroma, and taste of whole foods.

The addition of beneficial fats and live probiotics helps support digestive health and overall well-being. We also appreciate that this recipe is free of potatoes and legumes, which can be common allergens for some dogs.

However, this dog food is more expensive than some other options on the market. Additionally, it’s not suitable for puppies or pregnant/nursing dogs, so it may not work for all pet owners. Finally, some dogs may not like the taste or texture of the clusters, so it’s important to introduce this food slowly and monitor your dog’s reaction.

Overall, we highly recommend The Honest Kitchen Whole Food Clusters Whole Grain Beef -amp; Oat Dry Dog Food for pet owners who want to give their furry friends the best possible nutrition.

Buying Guide

When choosing a dog food with grains, it’s important to consider a few key factors to ensure your furry friend is getting the nutrition they need. Here are some features to look for:

Ingredients

The first thing to check is the ingredient list. Look for high-quality, whole-food ingredients such as brown rice, oatmeal, and quinoa. Avoid products that contain fillers or by-products, as these can be difficult for dogs to digest.

Nutritional Value

Check the nutritional value of the product. Make sure it contains a balanced blend of protein, fat, and carbohydrates, as well as essential vitamins and minerals. Look for products that meet AAFCO (Association of American Feed Control Officials) standards, which ensure that the food meets minimum nutritional requirements.

Grain Type

Different grains have different nutritional benefits, so it’s important to choose a product that contains the right type of grain for your dog’s needs. For example, brown rice is a good source of fiber, while quinoa is high in protein. Consider your dog’s age, size, and activity level when choosing a grain type.

Brand Reputation

Choose a reputable brand that has a history of producing high-quality dog food. Look for brands that use high-quality ingredients and have a good track record of producing safe and nutritious products.

By considering these factors, you can choose a dog food with grains that will provide your furry friend with the nutrition they need to thrive.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the health benefits of grains in dog food?

Grains in dog food can provide a variety of health benefits for your furry friend. They can be a good source of carbohydrates, which are an important source of energy for dogs. Grains can also be a good source of fiber, which can help with digestive health. Additionally, some grains contain important vitamins and minerals that can help keep your dog healthy.

How do I choose the best grain-inclusive food for a large breed dog?

When choosing a grain-inclusive food for a large breed dog, it is important to look for a food that is specifically formulated for their needs. Large breed dogs have different nutritional requirements than smaller dogs, so it is important to choose a food that meets their unique needs. Look for a food that contains high-quality protein, fiber, and other important nutrients.

What should I look for in a high-quality grain-inclusive dog food for small breeds?

When choosing a grain-inclusive food for a small breed dog, it is important to look for a food that is specifically formulated for their needs. Small breed dogs have different nutritional requirements than larger dogs, so it is important to choose a food that meets their unique needs. Look for a food that contains high-quality protein, fiber, and other important nutrients.

What are the top-rated dry dog foods that include grains?

There are many top-rated dry dog foods that include grains. Some of the most popular options include Blue Buffalo Life Protection Formula, Purina Pro Plan Savor, and Hill’s Science Diet Adult. These foods are all formulated with high-quality ingredients and are designed to provide your dog with the nutrition they need.

Can you recommend any premium wet dog foods that contain grains?

There are many premium wet dog foods that contain grains. Some of the top options include Wellness Complete Health, Merrick Classic, and Nutro Ultra. These foods are all formulated with high-quality ingredients and are designed to provide your dog with the nutrition they need.

How can I tell if my dog would benefit from a diet with grains?

If your dog is experiencing digestive issues or has a sensitive stomach, a diet with grains may be beneficial. Additionally, if your dog is highly active and requires a lot of energy, a diet with grains can provide the necessary carbohydrates to fuel their activity. However, it is important to consult with your veterinarian before making any changes to your dog’s diet.