Best Food for Working Dogs: Top Picks for Optimal Performance

Working dogs are a unique breed that requires a specific type of food to keep them healthy and energized throughout their daily tasks. Whether they are herding sheep or assisting law enforcement, working dogs need a balanced diet that provides them with the necessary nutrients to perform at their best.

When it comes to choosing the best food for working dogs, there are several factors to consider. The first and most crucial consideration is the dog’s activity level. Working dogs burn more calories than their non-working counterparts, so they require a higher calorie intake to maintain their energy levels.

Another critical factor to consider is the dog’s age and size. Puppies and senior dogs have different nutritional requirements than adult dogs, and their food should reflect this. Similarly, larger dogs require more food than smaller dogs to maintain their energy levels.

When choosing the best food for working dogs, it’s essential to look for high-quality ingredients that provide a balanced diet. Look for foods that contain a high percentage of protein, healthy fats, and complex carbohydrates. Avoid foods that contain fillers or artificial preservatives, as these can be harmful to your dog’s health.

We spent countless hours researching and testing ten different types of dog food to identify the ones that provide the best nutrition for working dogs. In the following sections, we will share our findings and provide recommendations for the best food for working dogs based on their age, size, and activity level.

Best Food for Working Dogs

As dog owners, we understand the importance of providing our furry friends with the best nutrition possible. This is especially true for working dogs who require optimal energy levels and sustained endurance to perform their duties. In this article, we have compiled a list of the best food options for working dogs to help you make an informed decision when it comes to your dog’s diet. Our selection includes a variety of high-quality and nutrient-rich options that are sure to meet the needs of even the most active dogs.

Best Breed Dr. Gary’s Working Dog Diet Made in USA

If you’re looking for a high-calorie dog food for your active dog, Best Breed Dr. Gary’s Working Dog Diet is a great option.

Pros

• The energy-dense kibble is perfect for hard-working dogs that need extra calories to maintain their optimum body condition.
• It is an excellent food for dogs that are underweight or require an extremely high quantity of food to maintain weight.
• The formula provides critical nutrition needed to pregnant and nursing females for body maintenance and milk production.

Cons

• Some dogs may not like the taste of the food.
• It is a bit more expensive than other dog foods on the market.
• Some dogs may experience digestive issues when first transitioning to this food.

We recently tried Best Breed Dr. Gary’s Working Dog Diet for our active dog, and we were very impressed. The energy-dense kibble provided our dog with the extra calories he needed to maintain his weight and energy levels during periods of high activity. We also appreciated that the formula is excellent for pregnant and nursing females, as we have a female dog who is nursing her puppies.

While the food is a bit more expensive than other dog foods on the market, we found that it was worth the investment for the quality of the ingredients and the results we saw in our dog’s health and energy levels. However, we did notice that some dogs may not like the taste of the food, and others may experience digestive issues when first transitioning to this food.

Overall, we highly recommend Best Breed Dr. Gary’s Working Dog Diet for any dog that requires extra calories and critical nutrition for their active lifestyle.

Diamond Premium Complete And Balanced Dry Dog Food For A Working Or Show Dog 40Lb Premium 40 Pound (Pack of 1)

If you are looking for a premium dog food that is formulated to help your working dog stay active and feel great, then Diamond Premium Adult Formula is a great option. With carefully determined levels of protein, fat, and other essential nutrients, this dog food is designed to support your dog’s ideal body condition.

Pros

• Balanced formula with 26% protein and 18% fat to support muscle tissue, stamina, and energy.
• Antioxidants and fiber for digestive and immune system support.
• Made in the USA with ingredients from trusted, sustainable sources around the world.

Cons

• Some dogs may not like the taste.
• The kibble size may be too large for smaller dogs.
• May cause digestive issues in some dogs.

We have been using Diamond Premium Adult Formula for our working dogs for several months and have seen great results. Our dogs have maintained their ideal body condition and have plenty of energy for their daily activities. The balanced formula with high-quality protein sources has helped support strong muscles, while the optimal levels of chicken fat provide the calories needed for stamina and energy.

The addition of antioxidants and fiber has also helped support our dogs’ digestive and immune systems, keeping them healthy and active. We appreciate that Diamond pet foods are made with the highest quality ingredients and formulated to provide all the nutrients our dogs need, day after day.

However, we have noticed that some dogs may not like the taste of this dog food, so it may take some time to transition them to this new food. Additionally, the kibble size may be too large for smaller dogs, so it is important to consider your dog’s size and chewing habits when selecting this food. Finally, some dogs may experience digestive issues when transitioning to this food or if they have a sensitive stomach.

Overall, we highly recommend Diamond Premium Adult Formula for working dogs, show dogs, hunting dogs, and breeding dogs. It is a premium dog food that is made with scientifically advanced protocols for food safety, and we feel confident that we are providing our dogs with safe, affordable nutrition of the highest quality.

Best Breed Working Dog Diet

We highly recommend the Best Breed Working Dog Diet for those who need a high-calorie food for their hardworking dogs.

Pros

• The caloric density of each kibble makes it an excellent food for dogs that require extra calories to maintain optimum body condition.
• Provides critical nutrition needed to pregnant and nursing females for body maintenance and milk production.
• The formula is enhanced with vitamins and minerals and uses natural ingredients cooked to perfection.

Cons

• Some dogs may not like the taste and refuse to eat it.
• It is a bit pricey compared to other dog foods.
• It may not be suitable for dogs that are not active or do not require a high-calorie diet.

We have been using the Best Breed Working Dog Diet for our active dogs, and it has been a great choice for us. The food is energy-dense, making it perfect for our dogs that require extra calories to maintain their body condition. We have also noticed an improvement in the joint and connective tissue health of our dogs, thanks to the natural source of glucosamine and chondroitin found in the New Zealand Green-Lipped Sea Mussel.

The food is made in Ohio and uses EU-approved ingredients, ensuring that we are feeding our dogs only the best. We appreciate that the formula is cooked slowly to ensure easy digestion and optimum nutrient absorption. We have also used the food for our pregnant and nursing females, and it has provided them with the critical nutrition needed for body maintenance and milk production.

However, we have noticed that some dogs may not like the taste of the food and refuse to eat it. Additionally, the price may be a bit steep for some dog owners. It is also important to note that the food may not be suitable for dogs that are not active or do not require a high-calorie diet.

Overall, the Best Breed Working Dog Diet is an excellent choice for those looking for a high-calorie food for their hardworking dogs. We highly recommend it for its natural ingredients, slow-cooking process, and critical nutrition for pregnant and nursing females.

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 wet dog food for your furry friend, Nutro So Simple Meal Complement Wet Dog Food is a great choice. Made with only 7 natural ingredients, this dog food is perfect as a mix-in, topper, or snack. The real chicken and duck ingredients make it a healthy and tasty option for your working dog.

Pros

• The simple recipe is made with only 7 natural ingredients, including real chicken as the #1 ingredient and real duck.
• This dog food is a perfect topper to mix 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

• This product is a bit expensive compared to other dog food options.
• The product may clump together when shaken before adding to your dog’s food.
• The product may not be suitable for dogs with certain dietary restrictions.

If you’re looking for a simple and natural dog food for your working dog, Nutro So Simple Meal Complement Wet Dog Food is a great option. We love that it’s made with only 7 natural ingredients, including real chicken and duck, and doesn’t contain any artificial flavors, colors, or preservatives. Plus, it’s a great topper to mix in with your dog’s favorite Nutro Dry Dog Food for added flavor and nutrition.

That being said, this product is a bit pricey compared to other dog food options, and it may not be suitable for dogs with certain dietary restrictions. Additionally, the product may clump together when shaken before adding to your dog’s food. Overall, we recommend giving Nutro So Simple Meal Complement Wet Dog Food a try if you’re looking for a natural and simple dog food option for your working dog.

I and Love and You Naked Essentials Dry Dog Food

We highly recommend the I and Love and You Naked Essentials Dry Dog Food for your furry friend’s daily meal. This product is perfect for working dogs who need a protein-rich and balanced diet to maintain their energy and lean muscle mass.

Pros

• The first ingredient is pasture-raised lamb and bison, which provides a delicious and crunchy source of protein that dogs love.
• Packed with 30% protein, this kibble has 25% more protein than BLUE Buffalo Life Protection-Adult, making it an excellent choice for working dogs.
• The pre and probiotics in this formula ensure that your dog’s gut stays healthy and their digestion stays smooth.

Cons

• This product may be more expensive than other brands on the market.
• Some dogs may not like the taste of lamb and bison.
• The kibble size may be too small for larger dogs.

We have been using I and Love and You Naked Essentials Dry Dog Food for several months now, and we have noticed a significant improvement in our dog’s energy levels and coat health. The high protein content and absence of fillers make this product an excellent choice for working dogs who need a balanced and nutritious diet.

The non-GMO protein and produce, grain-free, and filler-free formula make this product stand out from other brands. We appreciate that this recipe was recommended by an in-house holistic vet, Dr. Angie, ensuring that our dog is getting the best possible nutrition.

Overall, we highly recommend the I and Love and You Naked Essentials Dry Dog Food for working dogs who need a balanced and protein-rich diet to maintain their energy and lean muscle mass.

ZIWI Peak Air-Dried Dog Food

We highly recommend ZIWI Peak Air-Dried Dog Food for working dogs who need high-quality nutrition.

Pros

• The air-drying process naturally preserves all ingredients, maximizing flavor and retaining nutrients.
• The recipe is made up of 96% fresh meat, organs, and bones, as well as powerhouse superfoods like green mussels, organic kelp, and green tripe.
• The food is ethically and sustainably sourced from New Zealand’s free-range farms and pristine blue waters with no added hormones, antibiotics, or growth promotants.

Cons

• The food is expensive compared to other options on the market.
• Some dogs may not like the taste or texture of the air-dried food.
• The lamb flavor may not be suitable for dogs with food sensitivities.

We have found that ZIWI Peak Air-Dried Dog Food is a great choice for working dogs who need a nutritious and high-protein diet. The air-drying process ensures that the food is safe, clean to handle, and a nutritious alternative to a raw diet. Additionally, the limited ingredients and superfoods included in the recipe may help promote allergy relief, healthy skin and coat, improved digestion, joint health and mobility, and weight maintenance.

We have noticed that the food has a strong smell and may take some time for dogs to get used to the taste and texture. However, we have found that mixing it with wet food or using it as a meal topper can help entice picky eaters.

Overall, we believe that ZIWI Peak Air-Dried Dog Food is a great option for working dogs who need high-quality nutrition and are willing to invest in their dog’s health.

Halo Holistic Plant-Based Recipe With Superfoods

If you’re looking for a plant-based dog food that doesn’t skimp on nutrition, Halo Holistic Plant-Based Recipe with Superfoods is worth considering.

Pros

• Made with high-quality, non-GMO ingredients for optimal nutrition and digestive support
• Contains prebiotics, probiotics, and postbiotics for complete digestive health and immune support
• Provides an optimal balance of omega fatty acids for healthy skin and coat

Cons

• Some dogs may not enjoy the taste
• May not be suitable for dogs with certain dietary restrictions or health conditions
• More expensive than some other dog food options

We recently tried this vegetarian dog food for our working dog and were impressed with the quality of the ingredients. The plant-based recipe includes superfoods like sweet potato, chickpeas, and quinoa, which provide essential vitamins and minerals for adult dogs. We also appreciated that the food is free from corn, wheat, soy, and artificial flavors, preservatives, and colors.

One of the standout features of this dog food is its focus on digestive health. The addition of prebiotics, probiotics, and postbiotics helps promote healthy gut bacteria and support immune function. Our dog seemed to have no trouble digesting the food and didn’t experience any stomach issues.

Another benefit of this dog food is its optimal balance of omega fatty acids, which can help promote healthy skin and coat. Our dog’s coat looked shinier and felt softer after switching to this food.

However, it’s worth noting that some dogs may not enjoy the taste of this plant-based dog food. Additionally, if your dog has certain dietary restrictions or health conditions, this food may not be suitable for them. Finally, it’s important to consider the higher price point compared to some other dog food options.

Overall, we recommend giving Halo Holistic Plant-Based Recipe with Superfoods a try if you’re looking for a high-quality, plant-based dog food that focuses on digestive health and skin and coat health.

Health Extension Little Bites Chicken -amp; Brown Rice Recipe

We highly recommend Health Extension Little Bites Chicken -amp; Brown Rice Recipe dry dog food for small dogs and puppies. This protein-first formula is made with organically raised chicken and highly digestible brown rice. It contains cutting-edge ingredients like turmeric, apple cider vinegar, and ginger, and is packed with natural probiotics for proper digestion. Plus, it has flaxseed and pure coconut oil for supple skin and a shiny coat.

Pros

• Made with high-quality ingredients
• Grain and gluten-free
• Perfectly sized kibble for small dogs and puppies

Cons

• May not be suitable for large breed dogs
• Some dogs may not like the taste
• More expensive than some other dog foods

We have been using Health Extension Little Bites Chicken -amp; Brown Rice Recipe for our small dog for several months now and have seen a noticeable improvement in her coat and overall health. The kibble size is perfect for her small mouth and she seems to really enjoy the taste.

One thing to keep in mind is that this dog food is more expensive than some other options on the market. However, we believe that the high-quality ingredients and health benefits make it worth the investment.

Overall, if you are looking for a high-quality dog food for your small dog or puppy, we highly recommend giving Health Extension Little Bites Chicken -amp; Brown Rice Recipe a try.

Lucy Pet Formulas for Life Salmon, Pumpkin, -amp; Quinoa Dry Dog Food

If you’re looking for a high-quality dog food that promotes digestive health, sensitive stomachs, and healthy skin and coat, Lucy Pet Formulas for Life Salmon, Pumpkin, -amp; Quinoa Dry Dog Food is a great option to consider.

Pros

• The grain-free formula is carefully formulated to promote gut health, digestive health, and sensitive stomachs, making it an excellent choice for dogs with dietary sensitivities.
• Wild caught deboned Alaskan Salmon rich in Omega 3 fatty acids promotes healthy skin and coat, which is essential for working dogs.
• This dog food contains all the essential nutrients required for puppies, adult dogs, and senior dogs of small and large breeds to live and be healthy.

Cons

• Some customers may find the price to be a bit high.
• The kibble size may be too large for some smaller dogs.
• The strong smell of the dog food may not be appealing to some dog owners.

We have been feeding our working dogs Lucy Pet Formulas for Life Salmon, Pumpkin, -amp; Quinoa Dry Dog Food for several months now, and we have noticed a significant improvement in their digestive health and overall well-being. The grain-free formula is carefully formulated to promote gut health, digestive health, and sensitive stomachs, making it an excellent choice for dogs with dietary sensitivities. The wild caught deboned Alaskan Salmon rich in Omega 3 fatty acids promotes healthy skin and coat, which is essential for working dogs that spend a lot of time outdoors.

We also appreciate that every kibble is designed to contain all the essential nutrients required for puppies, adult dogs, and senior dogs of small and large breeds to live and be healthy. This makes it a convenient option for households with multiple dogs of different ages and breeds. Additionally, Lucy Pet Formulas for Life Salmon, Pumpkin, -amp; Quinoa Dry Dog Food is trusted by top trainers, breeders, police K9 units, and military working dogs.

While some customers may find the price to be a bit high, we believe that the quality of the ingredients and the health benefits make it worth the investment. However, we do acknowledge that the kibble size may be too large for some smaller dogs, and the strong smell of the dog food may not be appealing to some dog owners. Overall, we highly recommend Lucy Pet Formulas for Life Salmon, Pumpkin, -amp; Quinoa Dry Dog Food for working dogs who need a high-quality diet that promotes digestive health, sensitive stomachs, and healthy skin and coat.

Rachael Ray Nutrish Premium Natural Dry Dog Food

We highly recommend Rachael Ray Nutrish Premium Natural Dry Dog Food for working dogs who need a well-balanced diet to stay healthy and active.

Pros

• Real beef is the number one ingredient, providing essential protein for lean muscle mass.
• Fiber sources including peas and brown rice help support healthy digestion.
• Nutrish’s Whole Health Blend includes omega-3 fatty acids from fish oil to help support an active mind, antioxidants like those found in superfoods to help support a healthy body, and whole grains to help maintain balanced energy levels.

Cons

• Some dogs may not like the taste of the beef, pea, and brown rice recipe.
• The kibble size may be too large for smaller dogs.
• The 40-pound bag may be too large for owners with limited storage space.

We recently tried Rachael Ray Nutrish Premium Natural Dry Dog Food for our working dog and were impressed with the quality of the ingredients and the overall nutritional balance of the formula. The real beef provided essential protein for our dog’s lean muscle mass, while the fiber sources helped support healthy digestion. The Nutrish Whole Health Blend was a nice addition, providing omega-3 fatty acids, antioxidants, and whole grains to support our dog’s overall health and energy levels.

One potential downside we noticed was that some dogs may not like the taste of the beef, pea, and brown rice recipe. Additionally, the kibble size may be too large for smaller dogs, so owners may need to break it up into smaller pieces. Lastly, the 40-pound bag may be too large for owners with limited storage space.

Overall, we highly recommend Rachael Ray Nutrish Premium Natural Dry Dog Food for working dogs who need a well-balanced diet to stay healthy and active. With no fillers, no artificial flavors, and no artificial preservatives, this is a great choice for owners who want to provide their dogs with high-quality nutrition.

Buying Guide

When it comes to choosing the best food for your working dog, there are a few important features to consider. Here are some key factors to keep in mind before making your purchase:

Nutritional Requirements

Working dogs require a diet that is high in protein and fat to support their energy needs. Look for dog food that has a high percentage of animal-based protein sources, such as chicken, beef, or fish. Additionally, the food should contain a moderate amount of carbohydrates to provide sustained energy throughout the day.

Ingredient Quality

The quality of the ingredients in your dog’s food is important for their overall health and well-being. Choose dog food that uses high-quality, whole-food ingredients and avoids fillers, by-products, and artificial preservatives.

Special Dietary Needs

Some working dogs may have special dietary needs based on their breed, age, or health conditions. Consult with your veterinarian to determine if your dog requires a specific type of food, such as grain-free or hypoallergenic.

Brand Reputation

Choose a reputable brand that has a history of producing high-quality dog food. Look for brands that have undergone third-party testing and have positive customer reviews.

Price

While price should not be the sole factor in your decision, it’s important to choose a food that fits within your budget. Keep in mind that high-quality dog food may cost more upfront, but can save you money in the long run by promoting better health and reducing the risk of expensive health conditions.

By considering these factors, you can choose the best food for your working dog that meets their nutritional needs and promotes optimal health and performance.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the nutritional requirements for a working dog’s diet?

Working dogs require a diet that is high in protein and fat to support their active lifestyle. The diet should also include carbohydrates for energy and fiber for good digestion. Additionally, working dogs need vitamins and minerals to maintain optimal health.

Which type of puppy food is most suitable for young working dogs?

Young working dogs require a diet that is high in protein and fat to support their growth and development. Puppy food that is specifically formulated for working dogs is ideal as it contains the necessary nutrients for their active lifestyle.

What are the benefits of dry food over wet food for active working dogs?

Dry food is more convenient for working dogs as it is easier to store and transport. It also promotes good dental health and helps to reduce the risk of dental problems. Additionally, dry food has a longer shelf life than wet food.

How does the dietary needs of a working dog differ from those of a pet dog?

Working dogs have higher energy requirements than pet dogs due to their active lifestyle. They require a diet that is high in protein and fat to support their energy needs. Additionally, working dogs need more vitamins and minerals to maintain optimal health.

What ingredients should you look for in food for agility and athletic dogs?

Food for agility and athletic dogs should contain high-quality proteins such as chicken, beef, and fish. It should also include carbohydrates for energy and fiber for good digestion. Additionally, the food should contain vitamins and minerals to support overall health and wellness.

What are the top recommended proteins for working dogs to maintain optimal health?

The top recommended proteins for working dogs are chicken, beef, and fish. These proteins are high in quality and provide the necessary nutrients for an active lifestyle. Other good protein sources include lamb, turkey, and venison.