Best Dry Dog Foods: Top Picks for Your Furry Friend

Dry dog food is a popular choice among pet owners because it is convenient, affordable, and has a long shelf life. It is also a great option for dogs who need to maintain healthy teeth and gums, as the crunchy texture of dry food can help scrape away plaque and tartar. However, with so many options on the market, it can be challenging to determine which dry dog food is the best for your furry friend.

When choosing a dry dog food, it is essential to pay attention to the ingredients list. Look for high-quality protein sources like chicken, beef, or fish, as well as whole grains and vegetables. Avoid foods that contain fillers like corn, wheat, and soy, as these can be difficult for dogs to digest and provide little nutritional value.

Another critical factor to consider when selecting a dry dog food is your dog’s age, size, and activity level. Different formulas are designed for specific life stages and activity levels, so be sure to choose a food that is appropriate for your dog’s needs.

In our quest to find the best dry dog foods on the market, we spent countless hours researching and testing ten different brands. We evaluated each food based on its ingredients, nutritional value, and overall quality to identify the top picks for your furry companion.

Best Dry Dog Foods

As dog owners, we understand the importance of providing our furry friends with the best nutrition possible. Dry dog food is a popular option for many pet owners due to its convenience and long shelf life. With so many options on the market, it can be overwhelming to choose the right one for your pup. That’s why we’ve done the research and put together a list of the best dry dog foods available. Our top picks are based on ingredients, nutritional value, and overall quality. Keep reading to find the perfect dry dog food for your beloved pet.

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

If you want to feed your furry friend with a premium quality dry dog food, then The Honest Kitchen Whole Food Clusters Whole Grain Chicken -amp; Oat Dry Dog Food is worth considering.

Pros

• Made with 100% human-grade ingredients
• Suitable for adult dogs of all breeds and sizes
• Free of potatoes and legumes

Cons

• Expensive compared to other dog food brands
• The nuggets tend to crumble easily
• Some dogs may not like the taste

We were impressed with the quality of the ingredients used in this dog food. The fact that it’s made with 100% human-grade ingredients and produced in a human food facility gives us peace of mind that we’re giving our furry friend the best possible nutrition.

Another great thing about this dog food is that it’s suitable for adult dogs of all breeds and sizes. Whether you have a small dog or a large one, this dog food will provide complete and balanced nutrition.

We also appreciate that this dog food is free of potatoes and legumes, which are common allergens for dogs. This makes it an excellent choice for dogs with sensitive stomachs.

However, this dog food is more expensive compared to other dog food brands. If you’re on a tight budget, you may want to consider other options.

We also noticed that the nuggets tend to crumble easily, which can be messy. Additionally, some dogs may not like the taste of this dog food, so it’s important to introduce it gradually and monitor your dog’s reaction.

Overall, we think that The Honest Kitchen Whole Food Clusters Whole Grain Chicken -amp; Oat Dry Dog Food is a great option for pet owners who want to feed their dogs with premium quality food. However, it may not be suitable for those on a tight budget or dogs who are picky eaters.

Pawstruck All Natural Air Dried Dog Food w/Real Chicken

If you’re looking for a high-quality dog food that’s made with all-natural ingredients and packed with nutrients, then Pawstruck All Natural Air Dried Dog Food w/Real Chicken might be just what you need.

Pros

• Made with real chicken as the #1 ingredient
• Slowly oven roasted at a low temperature to retain maximum nutrition and flavor
• Grain-free, gluten-free, and paleo-inspired recipe

Cons

• Expensive compared to other dog food brands
• May crumble easily, making it difficult for some dogs to eat
• Only available in a 2lb bag, which may not be enough for larger dogs

We’ve been using Pawstruck All Natural Air Dried Dog Food w/Real Chicken for a few weeks now, and we’ve been impressed with the results. Our dog seems to love the taste, and we’ve noticed that her coat looks shinier and healthier than it did before.

One of the things we like about this dog food is that it’s made with real chicken as the #1 ingredient. This means that our dog is getting plenty of high-quality protein in every bite, which is important for maintaining strong muscles and healthy joints.

Another great thing about this dog food is that it’s slowly oven roasted at a low temperature to retain maximum nutrition and flavor. This means that our dog is getting all of the nutrients she needs to stay healthy, and she’s enjoying every bite.

Of course, there are a few downsides to this dog food as well. For one thing, it’s quite expensive compared to other dog food brands. This may not be a problem for everyone, but it’s something to keep in mind if you’re on a tight budget.

We’ve also noticed that this dog food can crumble easily, which can make it difficult for some dogs to eat. This hasn’t been a problem for our dog, but it’s something to be aware of if your dog has trouble eating dry food.

Finally, this dog food is only available in a 2lb bag, which may not be enough for larger dogs. If you have a large breed dog, you may need to purchase multiple bags to keep up with their appetite.

Overall, we think that Pawstruck All Natural Air Dried Dog Food w/Real Chicken is a great choice for pet parents who are looking for a high-quality dog food that’s made with all-natural ingredients. While it may be a bit expensive and crumble easily, the benefits of this dog food far outweigh the downsides.

A Better | Salmon Dry Dog Food | Raw You Can See | High Protein Kibble Freeze Dried Raw Dog Food Salmon 4 Pound (Pack of 1)

If you’re looking for a dog food that combines high-quality ingredients with freeze-dried raw pieces, A Better Treat’s Salmon Dry Dog Food might be the perfect choice for your furry friend.

Pros

• The freeze-dried raw pieces add extra nutrition and flavor to the kibble.
• The high protein content is great for maintaining muscle and immune system health.
• The kibble is formulated by a Ph.D. in Animal Nutrition and uses salmon as the #1 ingredient.

Cons

• Some customers have reported that the kibble is mostly dry and doesn’t have many salmon chunks.
• The price point is higher than some other dry dog foods on the market.
• The strong salmon smell might not be appealing to all dogs.

We’ve been using A Better’s Salmon Dry Dog Food for a few weeks now, and we’re impressed with the quality of the ingredients and the overall nutritional value of the food. The freeze-dried raw pieces are a nice touch and add some texture and flavor to the kibble. We also appreciate that the kibble is formulated by a Ph.D. in Animal Nutrition and uses salmon as the #1 ingredient.

However, we have noticed that the kibble is mostly dry and doesn’t have many salmon chunks, which might be disappointing for some dogs who prefer more variety in their food. Additionally, the price point is higher than some other dry dog foods on the market, which might be a consideration for budget-conscious pet owners.

Overall, we think A Better’s Salmon Dry Dog Food is a solid choice for pet owners who want to give their dogs a high-quality, nutritious diet. The freeze-dried raw pieces and high protein content make it a great option for maintaining muscle and immune system health, and the fact that it’s made with whole food ingredients is a plus. However, if your dog is particularly picky or has a sensitive stomach, you might want to try a smaller bag first to see how they react to the strong salmon smell.

IAMS Advanced Health Skin -amp; Coat Adult Dry Dog Food Chicken and Salmon Recipe, 27 lb. Bag

If you’re looking for a dry dog food that promotes healthy skin and a soft, vibrant coat, IAMS Advanced Health Skin -amp; Coat Adult Dry Dog Food is a great choice.

Pros

• Made with real farm-raised chicken and salmon to maintain strong, healthy muscles
• Formulated with Omega fatty acids, zinc, and vitamin E to support healthy skin and a soft, vibrant coat
• Essential nutrients and antioxidants support your dog’s whole-body health without any artificial flavors or preservatives

Cons

• Trace amounts of artificial flavors or preservatives may be present due to potential cross-contact during manufacturing
• Some dogs may not like the taste or texture of the kibble
• May be more expensive than other dry dog food brands

We’ve been using IAMS Advanced Health Skin -amp; Coat Adult Dry Dog Food for a few months now, and we’ve noticed a significant improvement in our dog’s skin and coat health. The kibble is made with real chicken and salmon, which our dog loves, and it’s formulated with Omega fatty acids, zinc, and vitamin E to promote healthy skin and a soft, vibrant coat.

One thing to keep in mind is that the kibble may not be suitable for dogs with allergies or sensitivities to certain ingredients, as trace amounts of artificial flavors or preservatives may be present due to potential cross-contact during manufacturing.

Overall, we highly recommend IAMS Advanced Health Skin -amp; Coat Adult Dry Dog Food for pet parents who want to support their dog’s whole-body health and promote healthy skin and coat.

Rachael Ray Nutrish Premium Natural Dry Dog Food

We highly recommend Rachael Ray Nutrish Premium Natural Dry Dog Food for its high-quality ingredients and nutritional value.

Pros

• Real beef is the number one ingredient, which helps support healthy organs and maintain lean muscle mass.
• 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.
• No fillers, no artificial flavors, and no artificial preservatives.

Cons

• Some dogs may not like the taste of the real beef flavor.
• The kibble size may be too large for smaller dogs.
• The packaging may be difficult to open for some users.

We’ve been using Rachael Ray Nutrish Premium Natural Dry Dog Food for a few months now, and we’ve noticed significant improvements in our dog’s health and energy levels. The real beef flavor is a hit with our dog, and we appreciate that the ingredients are natural and high-quality. We also love that a portion of the proceeds from the sale of this product will be donated to The Rachael Ray Foundation, which helps animals in need.

The Whole Health Blend is a great addition to this dry dog food, and we’ve noticed that our dog’s coat is shinier and her muscles are stronger. We also appreciate that there are no fillers, artificial flavors, or artificial preservatives in this product.

However, we have noticed that some dogs may not like the taste of the real beef flavor, so it’s important to monitor your dog’s reaction to this food. Additionally, the kibble size may be too large for smaller dogs, so it’s important to consider your dog’s size when purchasing this product. Finally, some users may find the packaging difficult to open, so it’s important to be careful when opening the bag.

Overall, we highly recommend Rachael Ray Nutrish Premium Natural Dry Dog Food for its high-quality ingredients, nutritional value, and commitment to animal welfare.

Nutro Ultra Adult High Protein Natural Dry Dog Food

If you’re looking for a high-quality dog food that provides complete and balanced nutrition for adult dogs, Nutro Ultra Adult High Protein Natural Dry Dog Food might be worth considering.

Pros

• With a trio of proteins from chicken, lamb, and salmon, this dog food is protein-rich and contains 15 vibrant superfoods, including coconut, chia, kale, and blueberries.
• Nutro Ultra Adult High Protein Natural Dry Dog Food is made with high-quality ingredients sourced from a trusted network of farmers and suppliers. It does not contain chicken by-product meal, corn, soy, or wheat, and has no artificial flavors, colors, or preservatives.
• The holistic formula is specially formulated for adult dogs and can help maintain healthy skin and a shiny coat, support an active lifestyle, and manage weight.

Cons

• Some dogs might not like the taste of this dog food.
• Nutro Ultra Adult High Protein Natural Dry Dog Food might be more expensive than other dog foods on the market.
• The 15 lb. bag might not be enough for larger breeds or dogs with bigger appetites.

We’ve been using Nutro Ultra Adult High Protein Natural Dry Dog Food for a while now, and our dog seems to enjoy it. The ingredients are high-quality, and we appreciate that it does not contain any artificial flavors, colors, or preservatives. The 15 vibrant superfoods are a nice touch, and we like that the formula is specially formulated for adult dogs.

One thing to note is that some dogs might not like the taste of this dog food. We’ve also noticed that Nutro Ultra Adult High Protein Natural Dry Dog Food is more expensive than other dog foods on the market. However, we believe that the quality of the ingredients justifies the higher price point.

Overall, if you’re looking for a high-quality dog food that provides complete and balanced nutrition for adult dogs, Nutro Ultra Adult High Protein Natural Dry Dog Food might be worth trying out.

IAMS Advanced Health Immune Health Adult Dry Dog Food Chicken -amp; Exclusive Superfoods Medley Recipe

We highly recommend IAMS Advanced Health Immune Health Adult Dry Dog Food Chicken -amp; Exclusive Superfoods Medley Recipe for pet owners who want to provide their dogs with a premium-tailored recipe that supports their whole-body health.

Pros

• Provides an antioxidant boost with Vitamin C and E to fight free radicals and support immune defense.
• Made with real chicken as the #1 ingredient and an exclusive Superfoods Medley of flaxseed, egg, carrots, coconut, chia seeds, pumpkin, kale, spinach, tomato pomace, and probiotics.
• Helps promote healthy teeth with IAMS crunchy kibble that scrubs your dog’s teeth with every bite to help reduce plaque build-up and bad breath.

Cons

• The product may contain trace amounts of artificial flavors or preservatives due to potential cross-contact during manufacturing.
• Some dogs may not like the taste of the kibble.
• The 27 lb. bag may be too large for some pet owners.

We have been using IAMS Advanced Health Immune Health for our dog for several months now, and we have noticed an improvement in his overall health. The kibble is made with high-quality ingredients, and our dog loves the taste. We also appreciate that the product is formulated without artificial flavors or preservatives, although trace amounts may be present.

The Superfoods Medley is a great addition to the recipe, and we have noticed that our dog’s coat looks shinier and healthier since we started feeding him this product. Additionally, the crunchy kibble helps promote healthy teeth, which is a great bonus.

Overall, we highly recommend IAMS Advanced Health Immune Health Adult Dry Dog Food Chicken -amp; Exclusive Superfoods Medley Recipe for pet owners who want to provide their dogs with a premium-tailored recipe that supports their whole-body health.

NUTRO ULTRA Adult Large Breed High Protein Natural Dry Dog Food with a Trio of Proteins from Chicken Lamb and Salmon

We highly recommend NUTRO ULTRA Large Breed Adult Dry Dog Food with a Trio of Proteins From Chicken, Lamb, and Salmon for large breed adult dogs. This dry dog food is made with high-quality ingredients that provide complete and balanced nutrition for adult dogs in every bowl.

Pros

• The #1 ingredient is real chicken, making it protein-rich and flavorful.
• It features a blend of 15 vibrant superfoods, like coconut, chia, kale, and blueberries, to provide a nutrient-rich diet.
• It is made with Non-GMO ingredients and has no chicken by-product meal, corn, wheat, or soy protein, and no artificial flavors, colors, or preservatives.

Cons

• Some dogs may not like the taste of the blend of proteins.
• It may be more expensive than some other dry dog food brands.
• It may not be suitable for dogs with certain dietary restrictions.

We have been feeding our large breed dog NUTRO ULTRA Large Breed Adult Dry Dog Food for several months, and we have noticed a significant improvement in his coat and overall health. The blend of proteins provides him with the necessary nutrients to maintain his energy levels and keep him active throughout the day. We also appreciate that this dry dog food is made with high-quality ingredients and does not contain any artificial flavors or preservatives.

In addition, the glucosamine and chondroitin from natural sources in this dry dog food promote healthy joints, which is especially important for large breed dogs. Our dog has had no issues with joint pain or stiffness since we switched to this dry dog food.

Overall, we highly recommend NUTRO ULTRA Large Breed Adult Dry Dog Food with a Trio of Proteins From Chicken, Lamb, and Salmon for large breed adult dogs. It provides a balanced diet that is nutrient-rich and full of flavor, helping your dog thrive.

I and Love and You Baked and Saucy Dry Dog Food

If you’re looking for a dry dog food that packs a punch in terms of flavor and nutrition, I and Love and You Baked and Saucy Dry Dog Food is a great choice.

Pros

• The meat is the #1 ingredient, and the food is packed with 28% protein, which helps build your pet’s muscle and boost their energy.
• The food is oven-baked in smaller batches and coated in savory bone broth, which makes it incredibly flavorful and appealing to dogs.
• The food is grain-free and filler-free, which means it doesn’t contain any corn, wheat, rice, soy, or oats. This makes it a great choice for dogs with food sensitivities or allergies.

Cons

• Some dogs may not enjoy the saucy texture of the food, especially if they’re used to traditional dry kibble.
• The food is on the pricier side, so it may not be the best choice for budget-conscious pet owners.
• The heart-shaped kibble may be difficult for some dogs to chew, especially if they have dental issues.

We’ve been using I and Love and You Baked and Saucy Dry Dog Food for a few weeks now, and our dog absolutely loves it. The food smells amazing and looks incredibly appetizing, even to human eyes. We appreciate that the food is made with non-GMO produce and that it contains pre- and probiotics for easy digestion. Our dog has been more energetic and playful since we switched to this food, and we’ve noticed an improvement in his coat and overall health.

One thing to keep in mind is that the saucy texture of the food may not be for every dog. Some dogs may prefer traditional dry kibble, and others may have difficulty chewing the heart-shaped kibble. Additionally, the food is on the pricier side, so it may not be the best choice for pet owners on a tight budget. However, we believe that the quality of the food is worth the extra cost, especially if you’re looking for a high-protein, grain-free option for your furry friend. Overall, we highly recommend I and Love and You Baked and Saucy Dry Dog Food.

Alaskan Gold Wild Salmon SUPER3 Dry Dog Food

If you’re looking for a high-quality dry dog food that offers superior nutrition, Alaskan Gold Wild Salmon SUPER3 is an excellent choice. We highly recommend this product for its numerous benefits.

Pros

• The recipe features wild-caught salmon as its #1 and only animal ingredient, making it a great choice for dogs with allergies or sensitive stomachs.
• The blend of high-protein, grain-free salmon kibble, freeze-dried raw salmon, and salmon oil, enhanced with ocean supergreens, provides unbeatable nutrition for your furry friend.
• The recipe is crafted with high-quality proteins, fruits, veggies, healthy fats, and probiotics/prebiotics for strong immune support, optimal digestion, and healthy skin/coat.

Cons

• The product is a bit more expensive than other dog foods on the market.
• Some dogs may experience diarrhea after consuming this product.
• The kibble size may be too small for larger dogs.

In our experience, Alaskan Gold Wild Salmon SUPER3 has been a game-changer for our dog’s overall health. The recipe is nutrient-dense and ideal for allergies and sensitive stomachs. We have noticed a significant improvement in our dog’s coat, including a softer and shinier appearance. Additionally, our dog has experienced relief from allergies, digestive issues, and skin problems.

The recipe is crafted by expert pet nutritionists and is free of cheap fillers like chicken, whitefish, grain, potato, corn, wheat, soy, by-product meal, and artificial colors or preservatives. The product is sustainably caught in the pristine waters of the North Pacific, making it a top source of Omega-3 Fatty Acids (EPA/DHA), Astaxanthin, and Collagen, promoting joint and muscle health, brain function, and heart health.

We appreciate that Alaskan Gold is a family-owned company that takes great care in ensuring the safety and quality of their product. Each batch is rigorously tested at a state-of-the-art laboratory to ensure that you and your pet receive the best. We highly recommend Alaskan Gold Wild Salmon SUPER3 for its exceptional quality and the noticeable improvements it has made in our dog’s health.

Buying Guide

When it comes to choosing the best dry dog food for your furry friend, there are a few important factors to consider. Here are some features to look for when selecting a high-quality dry dog food:

Ingredients

The first thing to consider when choosing a dry dog food is the ingredients. Look for a product that lists high-quality sources of protein as the first ingredient, such as chicken, beef, or fish. Avoid products that list fillers or by-products as the main ingredient. Additionally, look for a product that contains a variety of fruits, vegetables, and whole grains to provide your dog with a well-rounded diet.

Nutritional Value

In addition to the ingredients, it’s important to consider the nutritional value of the dry dog food. Look for a product that meets the minimum nutritional standards set by the Association of American Feed Control Officials (AAFCO). This will ensure that your dog is receiving the necessary vitamins, minerals, and nutrients to maintain optimal health.

Brand Reputation

When choosing a dry dog food, it’s important to consider the reputation of the brand. Look for a brand that has a proven track record of producing high-quality products and has a commitment to transparency and safety. Do some research and read reviews from other pet owners to get an idea of the brand’s reputation.

Price

While price shouldn’t be the only factor to consider when choosing a dry dog food, it’s important to find a product that fits within your budget. Look for a product that offers a good balance between quality and affordability. Keep in mind that higher-priced products aren’t always better, and it’s possible to find a high-quality dry dog food at a reasonable price.

By considering these factors, you can choose a high-quality dry dog food that will provide your furry friend with the nutrition they need to maintain optimal health.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the top-rated dry dog foods for small breeds?

When it comes to dry dog food for small breeds, some of the top-rated options include Royal Canin, Wellness, and Blue Buffalo. These brands offer a variety of recipes specifically tailored to the nutritional needs of small dogs, including those with sensitive stomachs or allergies.

Which dry dog food brands are recommended by veterinarians?

Some of the dry dog food brands that veterinarians often recommend include Hill’s Science Diet, Royal Canin, and Purina Pro Plan. These brands are known for their high-quality ingredients and balanced nutrition, which can help support your dog’s overall health and wellbeing.

What are the healthiest dry dog food options available?

The healthiest dry dog food options are typically those that are made with high-quality, whole food ingredients and free from artificial additives or fillers. Some of the top brands that offer healthy dry dog food options include Orijen, Acana, and Wellness.

Are there any dry dog food brands that should be avoided?

There are some dry dog food brands that should be avoided due to concerns about their quality or safety. These include brands that have been involved in recalls or that use low-quality ingredients. Some of the brands to watch out for include Ol’ Roy, Kibbles ‘n Bits, and Beneful.

What dry dog food is considered the best for large breed dogs?

When it comes to dry dog food for large breed dogs, it’s important to choose a brand that offers balanced nutrition and supports joint health. Some of the top options include Royal Canin, Hill’s Science Diet, and Purina Pro Plan.

How does Blue Buffalo dry dog food rank in terms of quality?

Blue Buffalo is a popular brand of dry dog food that offers a range of recipes made with high-quality ingredients. While the brand has faced some controversy over the years, many pet owners and experts still consider it to be a high-quality option for dogs of all sizes and breeds.