Best Grain Dog Food: Top Options for a Nutritious Diet

Dog owners want the best for their furry friends, and that includes their diet. With so many options available, it can be overwhelming to choose the right food for your dog. One aspect to consider is whether to feed your dog grain-free or grain-inclusive food. While grain-free has become a popular trend, it’s important to note that grains can provide important nutrients for dogs, such as fiber and carbohydrates.

That’s where the topic of the best grain dog food comes in. Grain dog food includes grains such as rice, oats, and barley, and can provide a balanced diet for your dog. However, not all grain dog food is created equal. Some brands may use low-quality grains or fillers that don’t provide the necessary nutrition for your dog.

When choosing the best grain dog food, it’s important to pay attention to the quality of the ingredients. Look for whole grains, such as brown rice, and avoid fillers like corn and wheat. Additionally, consider your dog’s specific needs, such as their age, breed, and any health conditions they may have.

We spent hours researching and testing various brands to identify the best grain dog food on the market. Our top picks provide high-quality ingredients and balanced nutrition for your furry friend.

Best Grain Dog Food

We understand how important it is to provide our furry friends with the right nutrition. Grain-free dog food has become increasingly popular in recent years, as it is believed to be a healthier option for dogs. However, not all grain-free dog food is created equal. That’s why we’ve done the research and compiled a list of the best grain dog food available on Amazon. Our list includes a variety of options to suit different dietary needs and preferences. Read on to find the perfect grain dog food for your beloved pet.

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

If you’re looking for a grain-inclusive dog food that’s packed with protein, Blue Buffalo Wilderness High Protein Natural Adult Dry Dog Food plus Wholesome Grains, Salmon is a great option.

Pros

• Made with real, high-quality deboned salmon
• Includes wholesome grains for a balanced diet
• Enhanced with antioxidant-rich LifeSource Bits

Cons

• Some dogs may experience digestive issues
• A bit pricier than some other options
• Strong smell may be off-putting to some owners

We’ve been feeding our dog Blue Buffalo Wilderness High Protein Natural Adult Dry Dog Food plus Wholesome Grains, Salmon for a few months now and have been impressed with the results. Our dog loves the taste and we appreciate that it’s made with real salmon and includes wholesome grains for a balanced diet.

One thing to note is that some dogs may experience digestive issues when switching to this food due to the high protein content. It’s important to transition slowly and monitor your dog’s reaction.

While this food is a bit pricier than some other options, we think the high-quality ingredients and balanced nutrition are worth the investment. However, the strong smell of the food may be off-putting to some owners.

Overall, we would recommend Blue Buffalo Wilderness High Protein Natural Adult Dry Dog Food plus Wholesome Grains, Salmon to anyone looking for a grain-inclusive dog food that’s packed with protein.

ORIJEN AMAZING GRAINS Original Dry Dog Food

We highly recommend ORIJEN AMAZING GRAINS Original Dry Dog Food for pet owners looking to provide their dogs with a high-quality, nutritious diet.

Pros

• The first five ingredients are fresh or raw poultry and fish, providing a strong source of protein, vitamins, and minerals.
• Contains prebiotics, probiotics, and fiber to support digestive health.
• Freeze-dried dog food coating provides a burst of flavor that dogs instinctively crave.

Cons

• The strong fish smell may be off-putting to some pet owners.
• The kibble size and shape may be irregular compared to other dog foods.
• The bag may be heavier than expected due to the high percentage of animal ingredients.

ORIJEN AMAZING GRAINS Original Dry Dog Food is made with 90% animal ingredients, providing a high protein diet that supports digestive health, immune function, and healthy skin and coat. The inclusion of whole herring, mackerel, and pollock oil also provides DHA and EPA to support immune function, healthy skin, and a shiny coat.

We appreciate that ORIJEN sources their grains from non-GMO crops, providing a high-quality source of fiber for our dogs. The freeze-dried dog food coating also provides a burst of flavor that our dogs love.

While the strong fish smell may be off-putting to some pet owners, we find that it dissipates quickly and is a small price to pay for the high-quality ingredients included in this dog food. The irregular kibble size and shape may also be a concern for some pet owners, but we have not experienced any issues with our dogs eating and digesting the food.

Overall, we highly recommend ORIJEN AMAZING GRAINS Original Dry Dog Food for pet owners looking to provide their dogs with a nutritious, high-quality diet.

ACANA Wholesome Grains Dry Dog Food, Red Meat and Grains, Gluten Free, Beef, Pork, and Lamb Recipe

If you’re looking for a high-quality grain dog food, ACANA Wholesome Grains Dry Dog Food is an excellent choice.

Pros

• The food is 60% quality animal ingredients and 40% wholesome grains, fruit, vegetables and nutrients, making it a balanced and nutritious option for your dog.
• The protein-rich dog food kibble recipe features farm-raised beef, Yorkshire pork and raw lamb, which are high-quality sources of protein for your dog.
• The grain blend includes oats, sorghum, and millet, which are fiber-rich and help support your dog’s digestive health.

Cons

• The price point for this dog food is higher than some other options on the market.
• Some dogs may not like the taste of the food, so it may take some time to transition them to this new diet.
• The food is not suitable for large breed puppies or dogs weighing 70 pounds or more as an adult.

We recently tried this dog food for our furry friend and were impressed with the quality of the ingredients. The inclusion of pre- and probiotics helps support digestive health, and the Omega-3 and Omega-6 fatty acids help keep our dog’s coat shiny and healthy.

The ACANA Wholesome Grains Dry Dog Food also includes antioxidant-rich ingredients that help support a healthy immune system. We appreciate that there are no artificial flavors, colors, or preservatives added to the food, and that there are no soy, corn, tapioca, or wheat ingredients.

Our dog seems to enjoy the taste of the food, and we’ve noticed that he has more energy and seems to be in better health overall since switching to this diet. While the price point is higher than some other dog foods, we feel that the quality of the ingredients and the benefits to our dog’s health make it worth the investment.

In summary, if you’re looking for a high-quality grain dog food that will provide balanced nutrition and support your dog’s overall health, we highly recommend the ACANA Wholesome Grains Dry Dog Food.

IAMS Advanced Health Adult Healthy Digestion Dry Dog Food

We highly recommend IAMS Advanced Health Adult Healthy Digestion Dry Dog Food with Real Chicken for dog owners looking for an affordable yet nutritious dog food option.

Pros

• Contains real, farm-raised chicken as the #1 ingredient
• Supports regularity and healthy stools with a blend of natural fiber and prebiotics
• Supports nutrient absorption with fiber from beet pulp and prebiotics

Cons

• May not be suitable for dogs with chicken allergies
• Contains corn and barley, which may not be suitable for dogs with grain sensitivities
• Some dogs may not enjoy the taste or texture of the kibble

We have used IAMS Advanced Health Adult Healthy Digestion Dry Dog Food for our own dogs and have noticed improvements in their digestive health and overall well-being. The kibble is highly digestible and helps support regularity and healthy stools. We also appreciate that it contains real chicken as the #1 ingredient and is formulated without wheat, artificial flavors, or preservatives.

However, we do caution that this product may not be suitable for dogs with chicken allergies or grain sensitivities, as it does contain corn and barley. Additionally, some dogs may not enjoy the taste or texture of the kibble. Overall, we believe that IAMS Advanced Health Adult Healthy Digestion Dry Dog Food is a great option for dog owners looking for an affordable and nutritious dog food.

IAMS Advanced Health Skin -amp; Coat Adult Dry Dog Food Chicken and Salmon Recipe

We highly recommend IAMS Advanced Health Skin -amp; Coat Adult Dry Dog Food Chicken and Salmon Recipe for pet parents who want to provide their dogs with a complete and balanced diet that promotes healthy skin and coat.

Pros

• IAMS Smartcoat Blend promotes healthy skin and a soft, vibrant coat
• Made with real chicken and salmon to maintain strong, healthy muscles
• Includes essential nutrients and antioxidants to support whole-body health

Cons

• Trace amounts of artificial flavors and preservatives may be present due to potential cross-contact during manufacturing
• More expensive than some other brands
• Some dogs may not like the taste or texture

We have been using IAMS Advanced Health Skin -amp; Coat Adult Dry Dog Food Chicken and Salmon Recipe for several months now, and we have noticed a significant improvement in our dog’s skin and coat. The IAMS Smartcoat Blend, which includes Omega fatty acids, zinc, and vitamin E, has helped to reduce itching and dryness, and our dog’s coat is now shiny and soft.

We appreciate that this dog food is made with real chicken and salmon as the first ingredients, which provides our dog with high-quality protein to maintain strong, healthy muscles. The inclusion of whole grains also ensures that our dog is getting essential nutrients and carbohydrates for healthy energy all day.

While we are pleased with the overall quality of this dog food, we do note that trace amounts of artificial flavors and preservatives may be present due to potential cross-contact during manufacturing. Additionally, this dog food is more expensive than some other brands, which may be a consideration for some pet parents. Finally, some dogs may not like the taste or texture of this dog food, so it may not be the best choice for picky eaters.

Overall, we highly recommend IAMS Advanced Health Skin -amp; Coat Adult Dry Dog Food Chicken and Salmon Recipe for pet parents who want to provide their dogs with a high-quality, complete and balanced diet that promotes healthy skin and coat.

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

We highly recommend the IAMS Advanced Health Immune Health Adult Dry Dog Food Chicken -amp; Exclusive Superfoods Medley Recipe for pet owners looking for a balanced and nutritious diet for their dogs that also supports their immune system.

Pros

• Provides an antioxidant boost with Vitamin C and E to fight free radicals
• Contains 5x the antioxidants for healthy immunity vs. IAMS Minichunks
• 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

Cons

• Trace amounts of artificial flavors or preservatives may be present due to potential cross-contact during manufacturing
• May not be suitable for dogs with certain dietary restrictions or sensitivities
• Some dogs may not enjoy the taste or texture of the kibble

IAMS Advanced Health Immune Health Adult Dry Dog Food Chicken -amp; Exclusive Superfoods Medley Recipe is a premium-tailored recipe made with wholesome grains that provide essential nutrients and carbohydrates for healthy energy throughout the day. The crunchy kibble also promotes healthy teeth by scrubbing them with every bite, helping to reduce plaque buildup that can lead to bad breath.

We appreciate that veterinarians recommend IAMS for its 100% nutrition for adult dogs. The immune-boosting antioxidants in this recipe help support immune defense, while the wholesome grains and real chicken provide the necessary nutrients for dogs to look, feel, and play their best.

Overall, we believe that the IAMS Advanced Health Immune Health Adult Dry Dog Food Chicken -amp; Exclusive Superfoods Medley Recipe is a great choice for pet owners who want to provide their dogs with a balanced and nutritious diet that supports their immune system.

IAMS Proactive Health Smart Puppy Large Breed Dry Dog Food with Real Chicken, 15 lb. Bag Chicken 15 Pound (Pack of 1)

If you’re looking for a high-quality puppy food that provides complete and balanced nutrition, IAMS Proactive Health Smart Puppy Large Breed Dry Dog Food with Real Chicken is a great choice.

Pros

• Contains 22 key nutrients like those found in mother’s milk
• Supports muscle growth with high-quality protein
• Enriched with antioxidants to support immune system development

Cons

• Some dogs may not like the flavor
• Not suitable for dogs with chicken allergies
• The pieces are large and may be difficult for small puppies to chew

We recently tried this puppy food and were impressed with the quality of the ingredients. The real chicken provides a great source of protein, and the addition of omega-3 DHA helps support brain and cognitive development.

One thing we really appreciated about this food is that it’s 100% complete and balanced, with no fillers. This means that you can feel confident that your puppy is getting all the nutrients they need to grow and thrive.

We also like that this food is enriched with antioxidants, which help support a healthy immune system. This is especially important for puppies, who are still developing their immune systems.

One thing to keep in mind is that some dogs may not like the flavor of this food. Additionally, if your dog has a chicken allergy, this food may not be the best choice for them.

Overall, we would recommend IAMS Proactive Health Smart Puppy Large Breed Dry Dog Food with Real Chicken to anyone looking for a high-quality puppy food that provides complete and balanced nutrition.

Solid Gold Small Breed Dog Food – Nutrientboost Wee Bit Whole Grain Made w/Real Bison, Brown Rice, -amp; Pearled Barley – High Fiber, Probiotic Dry Dog Food for Dogs with Sensitive Stomachs – 3.75 LB 3.75 Pound (Pack of 1)

If you’re looking for a high-quality grain dog food, Solid Gold Small Breed Dog Food is a great choice. Here’s what we think about it:

Pros

• The real, lean bison provides a delicious, iron-rich source of protein.
• The small kibble size is perfect for toy and small breed mouths.
• The balanced levels of protein, fat, and fiber are tailored to the unique nutritional needs of small and toy breed dogs.

Cons

• The price is a bit higher than some other options.
• The bag size is relatively small.
• Some dogs may not like the taste.

We were impressed by the quality of the ingredients in this dog food. Real bison provides a great source of protein, while brown rice and pearled barley offer fiber, B vitamins, and minerals. There are no artificial preservatives, corn, wheat, or soy, which is great for dogs with sensitive stomachs.

One of the standout features of this dog food is the small kibble size. It makes it easy for toy and small breed dogs to chew and digest. The balanced levels of protein, fat, and fiber are also tailored to the unique nutritional needs of small and toy breed dogs.

While the price of this dog food is a bit higher than some other options, we think the quality of the ingredients justifies the cost. The bag size is relatively small, so you may need to buy it more frequently if you have a larger dog or multiple dogs.

Overall, we think Solid Gold Small Breed Dog Food is a great choice for anyone looking for a high-quality grain dog food. The ingredients are top-notch, and the small kibble size and balanced nutritional profile make it a great option for small and toy breed dogs.

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

If you’re looking for a high-quality dog food that’s made with natural ingredients, then Merrick Healthy Grains Premium Adult Dry Dog Food is a great choice.

Pros

• Real deboned beef is the first ingredient, which helps to build and maintain healthy muscle tissue.
• This dog food features a healthy blend of grains, including quinoa and ancient grains, to support healthy digestion.
• Leading levels of glucosamine and chondroitin for dogs are added to support your dog’s healthy hips and joints.

Cons

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

We’ve been using Merrick Healthy Grains Premium Adult Dry Dog Food for a few months now, and we’ve been really impressed with the results. Our dog’s coat is shinier and healthier, and he seems to have more energy than he did before. We also appreciate that this dog food is made with natural ingredients and doesn’t contain any artificial colors, flavors, or preservatives.

One thing to keep in mind is that this dog food is a bit pricier than some other options on the market. However, we think that the quality of the ingredients and the health benefits make it worth the extra cost. Additionally, some dogs may not like the taste of this dog food, so it may take some trial and error to find a flavor that your dog enjoys.

Overall, we would definitely recommend Merrick Healthy Grains Premium Adult Dry Dog Food to anyone who is looking for a high-quality dog food that’s made with natural ingredients. It’s a bit pricier than some other options, but we think that the health benefits make it worth the extra cost.

Rachael Ray Nutrish Zero Grain Dry Dog Food, Salmon -amp; Sweet Potato Recipe, 23 Pounds Dry Food

If you’re looking for a grain-free dog food option, Rachael Ray Nutrish Zero Grain Dry Dog Food is worth considering.

Pros

• Real salmon is the #1 ingredient
• No artificial preservatives, colors, or flavors
• Natural dog food with added vitamins -amp; minerals

Cons

• Some dogs may not like the taste
• The kibble size may be too small for larger dogs
• The price point may be higher than other dog food brands

We’ve been using Rachael Ray Nutrish Zero Grain Dry Dog Food for a few months now and our dog seems to really enjoy it. The salmon flavor is a nice change from other dog food flavors and it’s great that there are no artificial preservatives, colors, or flavors. Plus, the added vitamins and minerals make us feel good about feeding it to our furry friend.

One potential downside is that some dogs may not like the taste of the salmon flavor. Additionally, the kibble size may be too small for larger dogs, so keep that in mind if you have a big pup. Finally, the price point may be higher than other dog food brands, but we believe the quality of the ingredients justifies the cost.

Overall, if you’re looking for a high-quality grain-free dog food option, we recommend giving Rachael Ray Nutrish Zero Grain Dry Dog Food a try.

Buying Guide

When it comes to choosing the best grain dog food, there are a few important factors to consider. Here are some key features to look for:

Ingredients

The first thing to look at is the ingredients. Make sure the food contains high-quality proteins, such as chicken, beef, or fish, as well as whole grains like brown rice or oats. Avoid foods that contain by-products or fillers, as these can be harmful to your dog’s health.

Nutritional Value

It’s important to choose a food that provides your dog with all the nutrients they need. Look for foods that are high in protein, fiber, and vitamins, and low in fat and carbohydrates. You can check the nutritional information on the packaging to make sure the food meets your dog’s dietary needs.

Brand Reputation

Choose a brand that has a good reputation for producing high-quality dog food. Look for brands that have been in business for a long time and have a proven track record of producing healthy, nutritious food. You can also check online reviews to see what other dog owners have to say about the brand.

Price

While price shouldn’t be the only factor you consider, it’s important to choose a food that fits within your budget. Look for foods that provide good value for money and don’t sacrifice quality for a lower price.

Special Dietary Needs

If your dog has special dietary needs, such as allergies or sensitivities, make sure you choose a food that is specifically designed to meet those needs. Some foods are formulated for dogs with sensitive stomachs, while others are designed for dogs with allergies to certain ingredients.

By considering these factors, you can choose the best grain dog food for your furry friend, ensuring they stay healthy and happy for years to come.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the health benefits of including grains in a dog’s diet?

Including grains in a dog’s diet can provide several health benefits. Grains are a good source of carbohydrates, which provide energy to your dog. They also contain fiber, which aids in digestion and helps your dog feel full. Additionally, some grains, such as brown rice, contain essential vitamins and minerals that are important for your dog’s overall health.

How does dog size impact the choice of grain-inclusive dog food?

The size of your dog can impact the choice of grain-inclusive dog food. Smaller dogs may require smaller kibble sizes, while larger dogs may need larger kibble sizes to prevent choking. Additionally, the calorie and nutrient needs of smaller and larger dogs can vary, so it’s important to choose a grain-inclusive dog food that is appropriate for your dog’s size and nutritional needs.

Which grains are considered most nutritious for dogs?

Several grains are considered nutritious for dogs, including brown rice, oats, barley, and quinoa. These grains provide a good source of carbohydrates, fiber, and essential vitamins and minerals. However, it’s important to choose a grain-inclusive dog food that contains a variety of grains to ensure your dog receives a balanced diet.

Are there any risks associated with feeding dogs grain-free diets?

Feeding dogs grain-free diets can pose some risks. Grain-free diets may lack essential nutrients that are found in grains, such as fiber and certain vitamins and minerals. Additionally, some grain-free diets may contain high levels of protein, which can be harmful to dogs with certain health conditions. It’s important to consult with your veterinarian before switching your dog to a grain-free diet.

How do I choose the best dry dog food with grains for my pet?

When choosing a dry dog food with grains, it’s important to consider your dog’s age, size, and nutritional needs. Look for a dog food that contains a variety of grains and high-quality protein sources. Additionally, choose a dog food that is free from artificial colors, flavors, and preservatives.

What should I look for in a high-quality whole grain dog food?

A high-quality whole grain dog food should contain a variety of whole grains, such as brown rice, oats, barley, and quinoa. It should also contain high-quality protein sources, such as chicken, beef, or fish. Look for a dog food that is free from artificial colors, flavors, and preservatives, and is formulated to meet your dog’s nutritional needs.