Best Dry Dog Food 2024: Top Picks for Your Canine Companion

Dry dog food is a popular and convenient option for pet owners who want to provide their furry friends with a balanced and nutritious diet. Dry dog food is easy to store, has a long shelf life, and can be more affordable than wet dog food. In recent years, there has been an increase in demand for high-quality dry dog food that is free from artificial preservatives, fillers, and by-products.

When it comes to choosing the best dry dog food for your pet, there are several factors to consider. The first thing to look for is the ingredient list. Ideally, the first ingredient should be a high-quality source of protein, such as chicken, beef, or fish. Avoid dry dog foods that contain fillers like corn, wheat, and soy, as these ingredients offer little nutritional value and can cause digestive issues in some dogs.

Another important factor to consider when choosing the best dry dog food is your pet’s age, breed, and activity level. Different dogs have different nutritional requirements, and the best dry dog food for a puppy may not be the same as the best dry dog food for a senior dog. Some dry dog foods are formulated for specific breeds or sizes, while others are designed for dogs with high energy levels or specific health issues.

In our search for the best dry dog food in 2024, we spent countless hours researching and testing ten different brands to identify the ones that offer the highest quality ingredients, balanced nutrition, and great taste. We also took into consideration factors like price, availability, and customer reviews to ensure that our recommendations are accessible and affordable for pet owners across the country.

Best Dry Dog Foods

As pet owners, we understand the importance of providing our furry friends with the best nutrition possible. That’s why we’ve researched and compiled a list of the best dry dog foods available in 2024. We’ve taken into consideration factors such as ingredients, nutritional value, and customer reviews to ensure that each product on our list meets our high standards. Whether you have a puppy or a senior dog, a large breed or a small one, we’ve got you covered. So without further ado, here are our top picks for the best dry dog foods of 2024.

Sportsman Pride Premium 26/18 Formula Adult Dog Food, 40-lb Bag 26/18 Adult Formula

If you’re looking for a nutritious and tasty dog food, Sportsman Pride Premium 26/18 Formula Adult Dog Food is definitely worth considering.

Pros

• Made in the USA with no artificial colors, flavors, or preservatives.
• Features the exclusive Omega Pride System—specially designed to provide a balanced ratio of omega-6 and omega-3 fatty acid levels between 5 to 1 and 10 to 1.
• Drool-worthy and nutritious dog food is paw-fect for dogs of all ages–including puppies, reproducing females and active adult dogs.

Cons

• May not be suitable for dogs with specific dietary needs, such as those with allergies or sensitivities to certain ingredients.
• Some dogs may not find the taste appealing.
• The kibble size may be too large for small dogs.

We’ve been feeding this dog food to our furry friend for a while now, and we’ve noticed a significant improvement in his overall health and energy levels. The formula is specially crafted by experts to provide optimum performance, with high-quality protein and optimum fat levels to help promote proper body function, build healthy muscle tissue, and provide stamina second to none.

What we love most about this dog food is the exclusive Omega Pride System, which provides a balanced ratio of omega-6 and omega-3 fatty acid levels. This is essential for good immune function, increased skin moisture, and an improved hair coat. We’ve noticed a significant improvement in our dog’s coat and skin health since we started feeding him this dog food.

The dog food is also enhanced with amino acids, vitamins, minerals, antioxidants, glucosamine, and chondroitin to support your pal’s joint health. This makes it an excellent choice for active dogs or those with joint issues.

One thing to keep in mind is that this dog food may not be suitable for dogs with specific dietary needs, such as those with allergies or sensitivities to certain ingredients. Additionally, some dogs may not find the taste appealing, so it’s always a good idea to introduce new dog food gradually.

Overall, we highly recommend Sportsman Pride Premium 26/18 Formula Adult Dog Food to any dog owner looking for a nutritious and tasty dog food that can help improve their furry friend’s health and energy levels.

Kibbles ‘N Bits Original Savory Beef -amp; Chicken Flavors Dry Dog Food, 45 Pound Bag

If you’re looking for a dry dog food that offers both taste and nutrition, Kibbles ‘N Bits Original Savory Beef -amp; Chicken Flavors may be worth considering.

Pros

• The mix of crunchy kibble and meaty bits may be appealing to dogs.
• Contains 23 essential vitamins and minerals for balanced nutrition.
• Comes in a large 45-pound bag, making it a good value for those with multiple dogs.

Cons

• Some dogs may not like the taste or texture of the food.
• The food contains corn and wheat, which may be problematic for dogs with allergies or sensitivities.
• The feeding instructions on the bag may not be accurate for all dogs.

We recently tried Kibbles ‘N Bits Original Savory Beef -amp; Chicken Flavors with our own dogs. While they seemed to enjoy the taste and texture of the food, we did notice that some of the larger meaty bits were difficult for our smaller dogs to chew.

One thing we appreciated about this food is that it contains a variety of vitamins and minerals to support overall health and wellness. However, we did notice that the food contains corn and wheat, which may not be suitable for all dogs.

Overall, we think Kibbles ‘N Bits Original Savory Beef -amp; Chicken Flavors is a decent option for those looking for an affordable, balanced dry dog food. However, it’s important to consider your dog’s individual needs and preferences before making a purchase.

Purina ONE Chicken and Rice Formula Dry Dog Food – 40 lb. Bag Chicken -amp; Rice 40 Pound (Pack of 1)

If you’re looking for a high-quality, balanced dog food that supports your furry friend’s overall health, Purina ONE Chicken and Rice Formula Dry Dog Food is a great option.

Pros

• With real chicken as the first ingredient, this dry dog food supports your dog’s strong muscles, including his healthy heart, and has high-quality carbohydrate sources for healthy energy.
• The high protein dry dog food for skin and coat care is easily digestible and made with omega-6 fatty acids, vitamins, and minerals, plus four antioxidant sources to help maintain a strong immune system.
• Purina ONE chicken and rice dog food offers a microbiome balance and a SmartBlend of high-quality ingredients, including prebiotic fiber for dogs, to help your pal be his best self.

Cons

• Some customers have reported that the food can be gritty and leave food dust.
• A few customers have mentioned that their dogs did not like the flavor of the food.
• The last few bags on some customers’ subscriptions have been of poor quality.

We have been using Purina ONE Chicken and Rice Formula Dry Dog Food for a while now and have been very satisfied with the results. Our dog’s coat is shiny, and his energy level is high. We also appreciate that the food is easily digestible and supports our dog’s overall health.

The food contains natural glucosamine sources, which promotes joint health for dogs. We have noticed that our dog’s joints are healthier since we started feeding him this food.

Another great feature of this product is that every digestive care dog food bag is crafted in Purina-owned, U.S. facilities and delivers with a combo of crunchy bites and tender, meaty morsels dogs love. Overall, we highly recommend Purina ONE Chicken and Rice Formula Dry Dog Food to anyone looking for a high-quality dog food that supports their furry friend’s overall health.

Purina Pro Plan High Protein Dog Food With Probiotics for Dogs, Shredded Blend Salmon -amp; Rice Formula – 17 lb. Bag Salmon -amp; Rice 17 Pound (Pack of 1)

If you’re looking for a high-protein dog food that will keep your furry friend healthy and happy, Purina Pro Plan High Protein Dog Food With Probiotics for Dogs, Shredded Blend Salmon -amp; Rice Formula is definitely worth considering.

Pros

• The blend of hard kibble and tender, shredded pieces makes for a satisfying texture that dogs love
• With real salmon as the first ingredient, you can be confident that your dog is getting a high-quality source of protein
• The formula includes guaranteed live probiotics for digestive and immune health, as well as vitamin A and omega-6 fatty acids to nourish your dog’s skin and coat

Cons

• Some users have reported that the kibble pieces are too small, which could be an issue for larger dogs or those who like to chew their food thoroughly
• While the formula is designed to be high in protein, it does contain some grains, which may not be ideal for dogs with certain dietary restrictions
• The price point may be higher than some other dog foods on the market, which could be a consideration for budget-conscious pet owners

We recently tried Purina Pro Plan High Protein Dog Food With Probiotics for Dogs, Shredded Blend Salmon -amp; Rice Formula with our own furry friend, and we were impressed with the results. Not only did our dog seem to enjoy the taste and texture of the food, but we also noticed an improvement in his coat and overall health.

One thing we particularly appreciated about this dog food was the inclusion of guaranteed live probiotics, which helped support our dog’s digestive and immune health. We also liked that the formula included vitamin A and omega-6 fatty acids to nourish his skin and coat, as we’ve noticed that these nutrients can make a big difference in the appearance and feel of our dog’s fur.

While we did find that the kibble pieces were on the smaller side, this wasn’t a huge issue for us since our dog tends to eat quickly and doesn’t require a lot of chewing. However, we could see how this might be a concern for larger dogs or those who prefer a more substantial texture to their food.

Overall, we would definitely recommend Purina Pro Plan High Protein Dog Food With Probiotics for Dogs, Shredded Blend Salmon -amp; Rice Formula to other pet owners looking for a high-quality, protein-rich dog food that will help keep their furry friends healthy and happy.

Purina Pro Plan Large Breed Dry Puppy Food, Chicken and Rice Formula – 34 lb. Bag Chicken -amp; Rice 34 Pound (Pack of 1)

If you’re looking for a high-quality dry dog food for your large breed puppy, we highly recommend Purina Pro Plan Large Breed Dry Puppy Food. With real chicken as its first ingredient, this formula is packed with high-quality protein to help maintain your puppy’s active lifestyle. Plus, the nutrient-rich formula is designed specifically for puppies weighing over 50 pounds at maturity.

Pros

• Formulated to support an appropriate growth rate for large breed puppies
• Glucosamine supports developing joints and cartilage
• Vitamin A and omega-6 fatty acids to nourish skin and coat

Cons

• Some dogs may not like the taste
• May cause digestive issues in some dogs
• Contains some fillers and by-products

We’ve been using Purina Pro Plan Large Breed Dry Puppy Food for our own large breed puppy and have seen great results. The kibble is crunchy and flavorful, making mealtime a breeze. Plus, we’ve noticed that our puppy’s coat is shinier and his skin healthier since we started feeding him this food.

One of the standout features of this formula is the addition of glucosamine, which helps support developing joints and cartilage in large breed puppies. We also appreciate that it contains vitamin A and omega-6 fatty acids, which help nourish your puppy’s skin and coat.

While some dogs may not enjoy the taste of this food, we haven’t had any issues with our puppy refusing to eat it. However, we have heard from some other dog owners that it can cause digestive issues in some dogs, so it’s important to monitor your puppy closely when introducing this food into his diet.

Overall, we highly recommend Purina Pro Plan Large Breed Dry Puppy Food for anyone looking for a high-quality dry dog food for their large breed puppy. With its nutrient-rich formula and high-quality ingredients, it’s a great choice for any growing pup.

Stella -amp; Chewy’s SuperBlends Raw Blend Wholesome Grains Grass-Fed Beef, Beef Liver -amp; Lamb Recipe with Superfoods, 3.25 lb. Bag 3.25 Pound (Pack of 1)

If you’re looking for a high-quality dry dog food that is packed with nutrients and flavor, Stella -amp; Chewy’s SuperBlends Raw Blend is definitely worth trying. This product is crafted with your pet’s health in mind and comes in four irresistible recipes, in your choice of Raw Coated, or Raw Blend formulas, that are sure to satisfy even the pickiest eaters.

Pros

• Superfood-Powered Kibble: Raw-coated, nutrient-packed, and crafted with a unique blend of responsibly sourced proteins, grains, and superfoods, SuperBlends help your dog thrive. Our Raw Blend recipes even have pieces of freeze-dried raw meat mixed right in for an extra protein boost.
• Delicious Taste, Guaranteed: Made with bone broth and raw-coated for maximum flavor, SuperBlends offer an irresistible taste that your pup is sure to love. Plus, all of our recipes are complete and balanced meals, giving your dog everything they need in one bag.
• Small-Batch, Nutrient-Rich: Our SuperBlends recipes are oven-baked in small batches, helping preserve all the nutrients your pup needs to stay healthy and strong.

Cons

• Price: This product may be more expensive than some other dry dog food options on the market.
• Availability: Depending on where you live, it may be difficult to find this product in stores.
• Packaging: Some customers have reported issues with the packaging, such as bags arriving torn or damaged.

We have been using Stella -amp; Chewy’s SuperBlends Raw Blend for several months now and have been very happy with the results. Our dog loves the taste and we love that it is made with high-quality ingredients that are responsibly sourced. We have noticed an improvement in his coat and overall health since switching to this product.

One thing to note is that this product may be more expensive than some other dry dog food options on the market. However, we believe that the quality of the ingredients and the benefits to our dog’s health are worth the extra cost.

Overall, we highly recommend Stella -amp; Chewy’s SuperBlends Raw Blend to anyone looking for a nutritious and delicious dry dog food option.

Victor Super Premium Dog Food – Elite Canine Dry Dog Food – 25% Protein, Gluten Free – for Large Breed Dogs -amp; Puppies, 15lbs

If you’re looking for a high-quality dry dog food that is specifically formulated for large breed dogs, then the Victor Super Premium Dog Food – Elite Canine Dry Dog Food is an excellent choice.

Pros

• This dog food is designed with a higher protein, lower fat ratio and proper calcium levels, making it an ideal formula for large breed puppy and adult dogs.
• The natural sources of glucosamine and chondroitin in this dog food help support healthy hip and joint development, and joint care for all life stages.
• This gluten-free dog food is a nutrient-dense, multi-protein formula with ingredients to help sustain energy and promote healthy immune and digestive systems.

Cons

• The kibble size may be too large for some smaller dogs.
• Some dogs may not like the taste of this dog food.
• It is a bit more expensive than other dog foods on the market.

We recently tried this dog food with our large breed dog and were impressed with the results. Our dog seemed to have more energy and his coat looked shinier and healthier. We also appreciated that this dog food is made in the USA with high-quality ingredients and is gluten-free.

One thing to note is that the kibble size is quite large, so it may not be suitable for smaller dogs or dogs with dental issues. Additionally, while our dog loved the taste, some dogs may not be as enthusiastic about it. Lastly, this dog food is a bit more expensive than some other brands on the market, but we think it’s worth it for the high-quality ingredients and nutritional value.

Overall, we highly recommend the Victor Super Premium Dog Food – Elite Canine Dry Dog Food for large breed dogs and puppies.

Hill’s Science Diet Senior Adult 7 Dog Dry Food, Perfect Digestion, Chicken Recipe, 22 lb. Bag

If you want to improve your dog’s digestive health and overall well-being, Hill’s Science Diet Perfect Digestion Adult 7 dry dog food is worth considering.

Pros

• With ActivBiome Technology ingredient blend of prebiotics, it supports each dog’s unique gut microbiome for healthy digestion and balanced nutrition that helps your dog feel their best.
• The high-quality chicken is the #1 ingredient, ensuring your dog gets the protein they need.
• It promotes regularity and healthy stools, resulting in perfect poop in 7 days.

Cons

• Some dogs may not like the taste of this particular recipe.
• It is a bit pricey compared to other dry dog food brands.
• The kibble size may not be suitable for small dogs.

We tried Hill’s Science Diet Perfect Digestion Adult 7 dry dog food with our senior dog, and it has made a noticeable difference in her digestive health. She used to have occasional loose stools, but after switching to this food, her stools are consistently healthy. We also noticed that her coat looks shinier and healthier.

The high-quality chicken is the primary protein source, and the ActivBiome Technology ingredient blend of prebiotics helps balance her gut microbiome, resulting in better digestion and overall well-being. We also appreciate that this food promotes regularity, and our dog achieved perfect poop in just a few days.

While this food is a bit more expensive than other brands, we believe it’s worth the investment for the noticeable health benefits. However, some dogs may not like the taste of this particular recipe, so it’s essential to introduce it gradually and monitor their reaction. Additionally, the kibble size may not be suitable for small dogs. Overall, we highly recommend Hill’s Science Diet Perfect Digestion Adult 7 dry dog food for dogs who need digestive support and balanced nutrition.

Rachael Ray Nutrish Premium Natural Dry Dog Food, Real Chicken -amp; Veggies Recipe, 28 Pounds

If you’re looking for a natural dry dog food that is both nutritious and delicious, then Rachael Ray Nutrish’s Real Chicken -amp; Veggies Recipe might be worth considering.

Pros

• Made with real chicken as the number one ingredient, ensuring your dog gets high-quality protein.
• Includes Nutrish’s Whole Health Blend, which helps support a healthy mind, body, and energy level.
• A portion of the proceeds from the sale of this product will be donated to The Rachael Ray Foundation, which helps animals in need.

Cons

• Some customers found the product to be expensive compared to other brands.
• A few customers reported that their dogs didn’t like the taste of the food.
• The product is not suitable for dogs with certain dietary restrictions, such as those who require a vegetarian diet.

We’ve been using Rachael Ray Nutrish’s Real Chicken -amp; Veggies Recipe for a few weeks now, and our dog seems to enjoy it. The kibble size is perfect for him, and the added vitamins, minerals, and taurine make us feel good about providing him with a balanced diet.

One thing we appreciate about this product is that it contains real chicken as the main ingredient. This ensures that our dog gets high-quality protein, which is essential for maintaining his muscle mass and overall health.

Another feature we like is the inclusion of Nutrish’s Whole Health Blend, which helps support our dog’s mind, body, and energy level. We’ve noticed that our dog seems more alert and energetic since we started feeding him this food.

While we appreciate the fact that a portion of the proceeds from this product goes to a good cause, we do find it to be a bit expensive compared to other brands. Additionally, some customers reported that their dogs didn’t like the taste of the food, so it may not be suitable for all dogs.

Overall, we think Rachael Ray Nutrish’s Real Chicken -amp; Veggies Recipe is a decent option for dog owners looking for a natural dry dog food. However, we recommend trying a small bag first to see if your dog likes the taste before committing to a larger purchase.

Blue Buffalo Life Protection Formula Natural Adult Dry Dog Food, Chicken and Brown Rice 30-lb Chicken -amp; Brown Rice 30 Pound (Pack of 1)

If you’re looking for a natural and high-quality dog food, then Blue Buffalo Life Protection Formula Natural Adult Dry Dog Food is a great option for you and your furry friend.

Pros

• Real meat is the first ingredient, providing high-quality protein that helps your dog build and maintain healthy muscles.
• Contains essential proteins and carbohydrates to help meet the energy needs of adult dogs, and features omega 3 -amp; 6 fatty acids to promote a shiny coat and healthy skin.
• Exclusive, antioxidant-rich LifeSource Bits support a healthy immune system in your adult dog.

Cons

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

We’ve been using this dog food for a few months now and have noticed a significant improvement in our dog’s coat and overall health. The real chicken as the first ingredient gives us peace of mind that we’re feeding our dog high-quality protein. The LifeSource Bits are also a great addition, providing our dog with the necessary vitamins and minerals to support her immune system.

One downside we’ve noticed is that some dogs may not like the taste of the food. However, our dog seems to enjoy it. Another potential issue is that the kibble size may be too large for smaller dogs. Lastly, the price may be higher than other dog food brands, but we believe that the quality of the ingredients justifies the cost.

Overall, we highly recommend Blue Buffalo Life Protection Formula Natural Adult Dry Dog Food for those looking for a natural and high-quality dog food for their furry friend.

Buying Guide

Choosing the best dry dog food can be a daunting task, given the vast array of options available in the market. Here are some key factors to consider when selecting the right product for your furry friend.

Nutritional Requirements

A good dry dog food should meet all of your dog’s nutritional requirements. Make sure to read the label carefully and check that the food contains all the essential nutrients, including protein, carbohydrates, fats, vitamins, and minerals. The Association of American Feed Control Officials (AAFCO) recommends a minimum of 18% protein for adult dogs and 22% for puppies.

Ingredient Quality

The quality of ingredients used in the food is also an important factor to consider. Look for products that use high-quality meat sources, such as chicken, beef, or fish, as the primary ingredient. Avoid products that contain by-products, fillers, or artificial preservatives.

Age and Size

Different types of dog food are formulated for different ages and sizes of dogs. For instance, puppies require more protein and fat than adult dogs, while senior dogs may need less protein and fewer calories. Similarly, small breed dogs have different nutritional requirements than larger breeds. Choose a product that is specifically formulated for your dog’s age and size.

Price

Price is also an important consideration when choosing a dry dog food. While more expensive products may contain higher quality ingredients, they may not always be the best choice for your dog. Look for products that offer a good balance of quality and affordability.

In conclusion, selecting the right dry dog food can make a significant difference in your dog’s overall health and well-being. By considering the nutritional requirements, ingredient quality, age and size, and price, you can choose a product that meets all your dog’s needs.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the top-rated dry dog food brands for 2024?

As of 2024, some of the top-rated dry dog food brands are Blue Buffalo, Hill’s Science Diet, Royal Canin, and Purina Pro Plan. These brands offer a variety of options for different breeds, sizes, and life stages.

Which dry dog food is recommended by veterinarians for large breeds this year?

For large breeds, veterinarians often recommend dry dog food that contains high-quality protein sources, such as chicken, turkey, or fish. Additionally, it’s important to look for formulas that contain glucosamine and chondroitin to support joint health. Some recommended brands for large breeds are Royal Canin, Hill’s Science Diet, and Eukanuba.

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

The healthiest dry dog food should contain high-quality protein sources, such as chicken, turkey, or fish, as well as whole grains, vegetables, and fruits. Look for formulas that are free from artificial preservatives, colors, and flavors. Additionally, it’s important to avoid ingredients like corn, soy, and wheat, which can be difficult for some dogs to digest.

Are there any dog food brands that experts suggest avoiding in 2024?

There are some dog food brands that experts suggest avoiding in 2024. These brands may contain low-quality ingredients, artificial preservatives, and fillers. Some of these brands include Ol’ Roy, Kibbles ‘n Bits, and Gravy Train.

What is considered the best dry dog food for small dog breeds currently?

For small dog breeds, the best dry dog food should contain high-quality protein sources, whole grains, and vegetables. Look for formulas that are specifically formulated for small breeds and contain smaller kibble sizes. Some recommended brands for small breeds include Blue Buffalo, Hill’s Science Diet, and Wellness.

How do I choose the best dry dog food for my dog’s specific nutritional needs?

To choose the best dry dog food for your dog’s specific nutritional needs, consider factors such as their age, breed, size, and activity level. Consult with your veterinarian to determine any specific dietary needs your dog may have, such as weight management or joint health. Look for formulas that are specifically tailored to your dog’s needs and contain high-quality ingredients.