Best Dried Food for Dogs: Top Picks for Optimal Nutrition

Dried food for dogs is a popular option for pet owners who want to provide their furry friends with a convenient and nutritious meal. Dried dog food is made by removing the moisture from the ingredients, which helps to preserve the food and make it easier to store. There are many different types of dried dog food available on the market, each with its own unique benefits and drawbacks.

When it comes to choosing the best dried food for dogs, there are a few critical things to keep in mind. The first is the quality of the ingredients. Look for dried dog food that contains high-quality protein sources, such as chicken, beef, or fish. It’s also essential to consider the nutritional content of the food, including the amount of fiber, fat, and carbohydrates.

Another factor to consider is the size and breed of your dog. Smaller dogs may require smaller kibble sizes, while larger breeds may need larger kibble to avoid choking hazards. Additionally, some dried dog food may be better suited for dogs with specific dietary needs, such as those with allergies or digestive issues.

At our team, we spent hours researching and testing various dried dog food options to identify the best ones on the market. In the following sections, we’ll share our top picks and provide detailed reviews to help you make an informed decision when choosing the best dried food for your furry friend.

Best Dried Food for Dogs

We know how important it is to feed our furry friends the best possible food. That’s why we’ve compiled a list of the best dried food for dogs. Our team has researched and tested various options to bring you a selection of high-quality, nutritious options that your pup is sure to love. Whether you’re looking for grain-free, limited ingredient, or something in between, we’ve got you covered. Check out our top picks below.

Blue Buffalo Life Protection Formula Natural Adult Dry Dog Food

We highly recommend the Blue Buffalo Life Protection Formula Natural Adult Dry Dog Food because of its nutritious ingredients and delicious taste that dogs love.

Pros

• Real meat is always the first ingredient
• Contains wholesome whole grains, garden veggies, and fruit
• Antioxidant-rich LifeSource Bits support immune system health

Cons

• More expensive than some other brands
• Some dogs may not like the taste
• Packaging may vary

We recently tried out the Blue Buffalo Life Protection Formula Natural Adult Dry Dog Food and were impressed with the quality of the ingredients. The real meat as the first ingredient ensures that our dogs are getting the protein they need to build and maintain healthy muscles. We also appreciate that the food contains wholesome whole grains, garden veggies, and fruit for added nutrition.

The antioxidant-rich LifeSource Bits are a great addition to the food, as they 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.

While the Blue Buffalo Life Protection Formula Natural Adult Dry Dog Food is more expensive than some other brands, we believe that the quality of the ingredients justifies the cost. However, some dogs may not like the taste, so it’s important to try a small bag first before committing to a larger size.

Overall, we highly recommend the Blue Buffalo Life Protection Formula Natural Adult Dry Dog Food for its nutritious ingredients and delicious taste that dogs love.

Pedigree Complete Nutrition Adult Dry Dog Food Grilled Steak -amp; Vegetable Flavor Dog Kibble, 30 lb. Bag Grilled Steak -amp; Vegetable Flavor 30 Pound (Pack of 1)

If you’re looking for a complete and balanced nutrition for your adult dog, Pedigree Complete Nutrition Adult Dry Dog Food Grilled Steak -amp; Vegetable Flavor Dog Kibble is a great choice.

Pros

• Provides complete and balanced nutrition enriched with omega-6 fatty acids to help nourish your dog’s skin and coat.
• Helps maintain a healthy lifestyle with antioxidants, vitamins, and minerals, in the delicious steak flavor dogs love.
• Made in the USA with the world’s finest ingredients.

Cons

• The kibbles are small, which may not be suitable for larger breeds.
• Some dogs may not like the taste of the food.
• May cause digestive issues in some dogs.

We recently tried Pedigree Complete Nutrition Adult Dry Dog Food Grilled Steak -amp; Vegetable Flavor Dog Kibble for our furry friend and we were impressed with the quality of the product. The kibble is small, which may not be suitable for larger breeds, but our dog had no problem eating it. The steak flavor seemed to be a hit with our dog, and the added vitamins and minerals helped maintain a healthy lifestyle.

One thing to note is that some dogs may not like the taste of the food, so it may take some time to transition them to this new food. Additionally, some dogs may experience digestive issues, so it’s important to monitor your pet’s reaction to the food.

Overall, we would recommend Pedigree Complete Nutrition Adult Dry Dog Food Grilled Steak -amp; Vegetable Flavor Dog Kibble for its quality ingredients and balanced nutrition. It’s a great choice for any adult dog looking for a tasty and healthy meal.

Stella -amp; Chewy’s Freeze Dried Raw Chewy’s Chicken Meal Mixers – Dog Food Topper for Small -amp; Large Breeds – Grain Free, Protein Rich Recipe – 8 oz Bag Chicken 8 Ounce (Pack of 1)

If you’re looking for a natural, nutrient-rich food topper for your furry friend, Stella -amp; Chewy’s Freeze Dried Raw Chewy’s Chicken Meal Mixers is a great option. We’ve tried it with our dogs and here’s what we think:

Pros

• The protein-rich recipe is made of 95% chicken, organs, and bone, providing your dog with the nutrition they need to thrive.
• The organic fruits and veggies, such as carrots, cranberries, spinach, and beets, provide antioxidants to support a healthy immune system and overall energy.
• The freeze-dried raw formula helps improve your dog’s entire well-being, with fiber and probiotics for digestive support and taurine for heart health.

Cons

• The price point is a bit higher compared to other dog food toppers on the market.
• The specific feeding guidelines may not work for all dogs and may need to be adjusted based on your pet’s size and activity level.
• Some dogs may not enjoy the taste or texture of freeze-dried food.

In our experience, Stella -amp; Chewy’s Freeze Dried Raw Chewy’s Chicken Meal Mixers is a great option for pet parents who want to provide their dogs with a nutritious, natural diet. The whole prey ingredients, including grass-fed, cage-free, or wild-caught proteins, make this food topper a great choice for pets with food sensitivities. Plus, the added vitamins and minerals help support your dog’s overall health and well-being.

We’ve found that our dogs enjoy the taste of the chicken recipe and we appreciate that it’s easy to add to their kibble for an extra boost of nutrition. Overall, we recommend giving Stella -amp; Chewy’s Freeze Dried Raw Chewy’s Chicken Meal Mixers a try if you’re looking for a high-quality dog food topper.

Raw Paws Freeze Dried Dog Food -amp; Cat Food – Chicken Recipe, 16-oz

If you’re looking for a healthy and nutritious freeze-dried pet food option for your furry friend, Raw Paws Freeze Dried Dog Food -amp; Cat Food – Chicken Recipe, 16-oz is a great choice. Made in the USA, this grain-free dog food is sourced from free-run chickens raised on American family farms. It is easily digestible, free of corn, wheat, soy, antibiotics, preservatives, additives, or fillers, making it the ultimate species-appropriate, well-rounded diet for all life stages.

Pros

• The gentle freeze-drying method locks in the delicious chicken flavor and naturally seals in nutrient-rich enzymes, vitamins, and minerals, giving your pets the benefits of raw nutrition without the hassle.
• Serve it as a highly nutritious meal, snack, or cat and dog food topper for any diet, raw, wet, or dry, making it ideal for pets with food sensitivities, pets that are overweight, diabetic, have allergies, or gastrointestinal disorders.
• The 16-ounce re-sealable bags make it easy to store, handle, and serve.

Cons

• The price may be a bit steep for some pet owners, particularly if they have several pets.
• The packaging size may not be enough for two big cats.
• The product has an odor similar to cardboard, which might not appeal to some pet owners.

Raw Paws Freeze Dried Dog Food -amp; Cat Food – Chicken Recipe, 16-oz is an excellent supplement for your pet’s diet. It is a very healthy option that contains no harmful additives or fillers. The gentle freeze-drying process ensures that the food retains its natural flavor and nutrient-rich enzymes, vitamins, and minerals.

We highly recommend this product for pet owners who want to provide their pets with a healthy, nutritious, and species-appropriate diet.

Stewart Freeze Dried Dog Treats, Beef Liver

If you’re looking for a healthy and natural dog treat, Stewart Freeze-Dried Beef Liver Dog Treats are a great option. They are made with a single ingredient, 100% beef liver, and are gluten-free and grain-free. These treats are packed with protein, vitamin D, and well-balanced amino acids to support strong muscles, making them a healthier option for your furry friend.

Pros

• Made from one simple ingredient: 100% pure beef liver
• Rich in Omega 3 and Omega 6 fatty acids, ensuring your best friend has a healthy coat and skin
• Can also serve as a meal topper

Cons

• Some dogs may not like the smell or taste of liver
• Can be a bit expensive compared to other dog treats
• Morsels may crumble easily

We’ve been using Stewart Freeze-Dried Beef Liver Dog Treats for a while now, and we’re impressed with their quality. They are lightweight and easy to store, thanks to their long shelf life and resealable tub. We love that they are made in the USA and crafted with care in small batches to ensure the highest quality.

These treats are versatile and can be used for training, dog enrichment toys, playtime, or rewarding a job well done. We’ve also used them as a meal topper, which is a great way to add some extra nutrition to our dog’s diet. The morsels are easy to break into small pieces, making them a convenient option for all types of dog training or enrichment activities.

However, some dogs may not like the smell or taste of liver, so it’s important to introduce these treats slowly and see how your dog reacts. Additionally, the treats can crumble easily, which can be messy, especially if you’re using them as a meal topper.

Overall, we highly recommend Stewart Freeze-Dried Beef Liver Dog Treats for their quality, versatility, and nutritional value. If your dog loves liver, these treats are definitely worth a try.

Pawstruck All Natural Air Dried Dog Food w/Real Chicken

If you are looking for a high-quality dried food for your furry friend, then Pawstruck All Natural Air Dried Dog Food w/Real Chicken is an excellent option to consider. We have tried and tested this product, and here is what we think about it.

Pros

• The food is slowly oven roasted at a low temperature, which helps retain maximum nutrition and a crunchy texture bursting with flavor, making it a great alternative to highly-processed kibble.
• It is a single-protein, grain-free, gluten-free, and paleo-inspired recipe made with 97% chicken to satisfy your pup’s carnivore cravings and a 3% blend of flaxseed, salmon oil, vitamins, -amp; minerals, which may help support healthy joints and hips.
• The food is safely made in the USA with only all-natural ingredients from around the globe, with added vitamins and minerals, entirely free from fillers and preservatives. You get the digestibility of raw or freeze-dried dog foods with the safety and convenience of dry dog food.

Cons

• The food is expensive compared to other dried dog food available in the market.
• It crumbles easily, which may not be suitable for dogs with dental issues.
• The food may not be suitable for dogs with chicken allergies.

We found the Pawstruck All Natural Air Dried Dog Food w/Real Chicken to be an excellent option for pet parents who want to feed their furry friends with high-quality dried food. The food is made with all-natural ingredients and is free from fillers and preservatives, making it a safe and nutritious meal for your pup. The added vitamins and minerals may help support healthy joints and hips, making it a great option for older dogs.

The food is slowly oven roasted at a low temperature, which helps retain maximum nutrition and a crunchy texture bursting with flavor, making it a great alternative to highly-processed kibble. The single-protein, grain-free, gluten-free, and paleo-inspired recipe made with 97% chicken is ideal for dogs with carnivore cravings. However, the food is expensive compared to other dried dog food available in the market, and it crumbles easily, which may not be suitable for dogs with dental issues. Additionally, the food may not be suitable for dogs with chicken allergies.

Overall, if you are looking for a high-quality dried food for your furry friend, then Pawstruck All Natural Air Dried Dog Food w/Real Chicken is an excellent option to consider.

K9 Natural Canine Natural Freeze Dried Pet Food, 1.1-Pound, Lamb Lamb 1.1 Pound (Pack of 1)

If you’re looking for a high-quality, natural dog food that is easy to use and packed with nutrients, then K9 Natural Canine Natural Freeze Dried Pet Food is definitely worth considering. Our team has tried and tested this product, and we’re confident in recommending it to other dog owners.

Pros

• Contains 100% natural New Zealand grass-fed lamb, with no fillers or gelling agents
• Supports healthy skin, coat condition, and boosts the nutritional value of your dog’s food in seconds
• Comes with a palatability guarantee, so you can be sure your dog will love it

Cons

• Can be a bit pricey compared to other dog food options
• May not be suitable for dogs with certain dietary restrictions or allergies
• Some dogs may not like the texture or taste of freeze-dried food

K9 Natural Canine Natural Freeze Dried Pet Food is made from high-quality, ethically sourced ingredients, including 100% natural New Zealand grass-fed lamb. This means you can be sure that your dog is getting the best possible nutrition, without any fillers or artificial ingredients.

One of the best things about this product is how easy it is to use. Simply mix the freeze-dried lamb into your dog’s dry kibble or wet canned dog food, and you’re good to go. It’s also easy to store, thanks to the resealable pack.

Another great feature of K9 Natural Canine Natural Freeze Dried Pet Food is its palatability guarantee. If your dog doesn’t love it, you can get a full refund – no questions asked. This gives you the peace of mind that you’re not wasting your money on a product your dog won’t eat.

However, it’s worth noting that this product can be a bit pricey compared to other dog food options. Additionally, it may not be suitable for dogs with certain dietary restrictions or allergies, so be sure to check the ingredients carefully before purchasing. Finally, some dogs may not like the texture or taste of freeze-dried food, so it’s important to introduce it slowly and monitor your dog’s reaction.

Overall, we highly recommend K9 Natural Canine Natural Freeze Dried Pet Food for dog owners who want a high-quality, natural dog food that is easy to use and packed with nutrients.

Hill’s Science Diet Dry Dog Food, Adult, Sensitive Stomach -amp; Skin, Chicken Recipe, 30 lb. Bag Chicken -amp; Barley 3.75 Gallon (Pack of 1)

If you’re looking for a dry dog food that promotes digestive health while nourishing skin, Hill’s Science Diet Sensitive Stomach -amp; Skin Adult Dog Food is an excellent choice. Our experience with this product has been positive, and we believe it’s a great option for adult dogs with sensitive stomachs.

Pros

• This dog food is specially formulated for optimal digestive health, using prebiotic fiber to fuel gut bacteria and support a balanced microbiome.
• Hill’s Science Diet Sensitive Stomach -amp; Skin Adult Dog Food is highly digestible, which promotes optimal nutrient absorption and easier stool pick-up.
• Packed with vitamin E and Omega-6 fatty acids, this dog food nourishes your dog’s skin and helps maintain a healthy, shiny coat.

Cons

• Some dogs might not like the taste of this dog food.
• The price point is a bit higher compared to other dog food brands.
• The kibble size might be too big for smaller dogs.

In our experience, Hill’s Science Diet Sensitive Stomach -amp; Skin Adult Dog Food has been a great-tasting meal that our adult dogs truly enjoy. We appreciate that it’s made with natural ingredients and that it’s formulated with decades of cutting-edge research. Additionally, we love that it’s made in the USA with global ingredients we can trust.

We also appreciate that this dog food is a source of prebiotic fiber, which supports a balanced gut microbiome in your grown dog. This is especially important for dogs with sensitive stomachs. We’ve noticed that our dogs have had easier stool pick-up since switching to this dog food, which we attribute to its high digestibility.

Overall, we highly recommend Hill’s Science Diet Sensitive Stomach -amp; Skin Adult Dog Food for adult dogs with sensitive stomachs. It’s a great option for promoting digestive health while nourishing skin, and we believe it’s worth the investment for the health and well-being of your furry friend.

Stella -amp; Chewy’s Freeze Dried Raw Dinner Patties

If you’re looking for a high-quality, grain-free food option for your furry friend, Stella -amp; Chewy’s Freeze Dried Raw Dinner Patties is a great choice.

Pros

• Made with 95% beef, organs, and bone, grass-fed and cage-free
• Free from artificial colors, flavors, and preservatives
• Crafted in the USA with responsibly sourced, premium ingredients

Cons

• Expensive compared to other dog food options
• Some dogs may not like the taste or texture
• Patties can be difficult to break apart for smaller dogs

We’ve been feeding our dog Stella -amp; Chewy’s for a few months now and have noticed a significant improvement in her overall health and energy levels. The high-quality ingredients and raw protein have helped support her digestion, skin and coat health, and overall well-being.

One of the things we love about Stella -amp; Chewy’s is that they use only the finest ingredients and source 100% organic fruits and veggies, such as cranberries, blueberries, broccoli, and beets, to provide antioxidants and natural nutrition. The patties are also free from unnecessary fillers like potatoes, peas, and lentils, making it easy for our dog to digest.

However, we do acknowledge that Stella -amp; Chewy’s can be expensive compared to other dog food options. Additionally, some dogs may not like the taste or texture of the patties, and they can be difficult to break apart for smaller dogs.

Overall, we highly recommend Stella -amp; Chewy’s Freeze Dried Raw Dinner Patties for pet parents looking for a high-quality, natural food option for their furry friend.

ZIWI Peak Air-Dried Dog Food

If you’re looking for a high-quality, nutrient-dense dog food, ZIWI Peak Air-Dried Dog Food is an excellent choice. We highly recommend this product for dogs of all life stages, including those with food sensitivities.

Pros

• Authentic whole-prey ratios with 96% free-range chicken, organs, bone, and New Zealand green mussels.
• Grain-free, low carb, and no cheap fillers such as grain, potato, or peas.
• Contains 10% superfood boost with poultry heart, New Zealand green mussels, and organic kelp.

Cons

• Expensive compared to other dog food brands.
• Some dogs may not like the taste or texture of the air-dried food.
• Packaging is not resealable, which can be inconvenient.

ZIWI Peak Air-Dried Dog Food is a complete meal that’s perfect for dogs who need a boost in nutrition and flavor. The whole-prey ratios ensure that your dog gets the nutrients they need, while the air-drying process locks in the flavor for a mouth-watering taste.

This dog food is also grain-free and low carb, making it an ideal choice for dogs with food sensitivities. The superfood boost of poultry heart, New Zealand green mussels, and organic kelp provides additional support for digestion, healthy skin and coat, joint health, and heart and brain health.

While ZIWI Peak Air-Dried Dog Food is more expensive than other dog food brands, it’s worth the investment for the high-quality ingredients and nutrient-dense formula. Some dogs may not like the taste or texture of the air-dried food, but most will enjoy the flavor and health benefits.

Overall, we highly recommend ZIWI Peak Air-Dried Dog Food for pet owners who want to provide their dogs with a high-quality, nutrient-dense diet.

Buying Guide

When choosing the best dried food for your furry friend, it is important to consider a few key features to ensure that you are providing them with a nutritious and balanced diet. Here are some factors to keep in mind:

Ingredients

The first thing to look at when choosing a dried food for your dog is the ingredients list. Make sure that the product contains high-quality sources of protein, such as chicken, beef, or fish, as well as healthy fats and carbohydrates. Avoid products that contain fillers, artificial preservatives, and by-products.

Nutritional Value

In addition to looking at the ingredients, it is important to consider the overall nutritional value of the product. Look for foods that are balanced and complete, containing all of the essential vitamins and minerals that your dog needs to thrive. You can also consult with your veterinarian to determine the best diet for your dog’s specific needs.

Brand Reputation

When it comes to choosing a dried food for your dog, it is important to choose a reputable brand that you can trust. Look for brands that have a history of producing high-quality pet food and have a good reputation within the industry.

Price

While price should not be the only consideration when choosing a dried food for your dog, it is important to consider your budget. Look for products that offer good value for money, without sacrificing quality or nutritional value.

In summary, when choosing the best dried food for your dog, it is important to consider the ingredients, nutritional value, brand reputation, and price. By keeping these factors in mind, you can ensure that you are providing your furry friend with a nutritious and balanced diet that meets their specific needs.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the top vet-recommended dry dog foods?

When it comes to vet-recommended dry dog food brands, there are several options available. Some of the top brands include Hill’s Science Diet, Royal Canin, and Purina Pro Plan. These brands offer a variety of formulas to meet different dietary needs and are generally considered to be high-quality options.

Which dry dog foods are considered the healthiest for small breeds?

Small breed dogs have unique nutritional needs, and it’s important to choose a dry dog food that is specifically formulated for their size. Some of the healthiest dry dog food options for small breeds include Blue Buffalo Life Protection Formula Small Breed, Wellness Core Small Breed, and Nutro Ultra Small Breed Adult.

What are the leading dry dog food options for large breed dogs?

Large breed dogs have different nutritional requirements than smaller dogs, and it’s important to choose a dry dog food that meets their specific needs. Some of the leading dry dog food options for large breed dogs include Royal Canin Large Breed Adult, Hill’s Science Diet Large Breed, and Purina Pro Plan Large Breed Adult.

How do you determine the quality of dry dog food brands?

There are several factors to consider when determining the quality of dry dog food brands. Look for brands that use high-quality, whole food ingredients, avoid fillers and by-products, and have a good balance of protein, fat, and carbohydrates. It’s also important to choose brands that have been tested and approved by regulatory agencies.

What ingredients should you look for in the healthiest dry dog food?

The healthiest dry dog food options will contain high-quality, whole food ingredients such as meat, fish, vegetables, and fruits. Look for brands that avoid fillers and by-products, and have a good balance of protein, fat, and carbohydrates. It’s also important to choose brands that have added vitamins and minerals to ensure your dog is getting all the nutrients they need.

Are there specific dry dog food brands that experts suggest avoiding?

There are some dry dog food brands that experts suggest avoiding due to concerns about quality and safety. Some of the brands that have been flagged include Ol’ Roy, Kibbles ‘n Bits, and Beneful. It’s always important to do your own research and choose a brand that meets your dog’s specific nutritional needs.