Best Grain Food for Dogs: Top Picks for a Nutritious Diet

Grain-based dog food has been a popular choice for pet owners for many years. It is an affordable and convenient option that provides dogs with the necessary nutrients they need to stay healthy. However, not all grain-based dog foods are created equal. Some contain fillers and additives that can be harmful to your dog’s health. That’s why we’ve researched and tested various grain-based dog foods to identify the best options on the market.

When it comes to choosing the best grain-based dog food, there are a few critical things to consider. Firstly, you need to ensure that the food contains high-quality grains that are easily digestible for your dog. Secondly, you need to check the ingredients list to ensure that there are no harmful additives or fillers. Finally, you need to choose a food that is appropriate for your dog’s age, breed, and activity level.

After hours of research and testing, we have identified the best grain-based dog food for your furry friend. Our top pick contains high-quality grains, is free from harmful additives, and is appropriate for dogs of all ages, breeds, and activity levels. With this food, you can be sure that your dog is getting the nutrients they need to stay healthy and happy.

Best Grain Food for Dogs

We all want to give our furry friends the best possible nutrition, and that includes their food. Grain-free diets have become increasingly popular, but it’s important to remember that not all grains are bad for dogs. In fact, some grains can provide essential nutrients and fiber. That’s why we’ve compiled a list of the best grain food for dogs, so you can make an informed decision about what to feed your pup. Our list includes a variety of options, so you’re sure to find something that fits your dog’s needs and preferences.

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

If you’re searching for a high-quality, protein-rich dog food that is also gluten-free, then ACANA Wholesome Grains Dry Dog Food, Red Meat and Grains, Gluten Free, Beef, Pork, and Lamb Recipe is a great option to consider.

Pros

• The food is protein-rich and features farm-raised beef, Yorkshire pork, and raw lamb.
• It is balanced to include 60% high-quality animal ingredients and 40% wholesome grains, fruit, vegetables, and nutrients.
• The fiber-rich grain blend, featuring oats, sorghum, and millet, plus pre- and probiotics for dogs, helps provide digestive support, and naturally occurring Omega-3 -amp; Omega-6 fatty acids help support healthy skin and a shiny coat.

Cons

• The food is relatively expensive compared to other dog foods on the market.
• Some dogs may not be fond of the taste or texture of the food.
• The food is not recommended for the growth of large size dogs (70 lb. or more as an adult).

We recently tried ACANA Wholesome Grains Dry Dog Food, Red Meat and Grains, Gluten Free, Beef, Pork, and Lamb Recipe, and we were impressed with the quality of the ingredients. The food is made with protein-rich, farm-raised beef, Yorkshire pork, and raw lamb, which are balanced with wholesome grains like oats, sorghum, and millet. We also appreciate that the food includes pre- and probiotics to help support our dog’s digestive health.

One of the things we like about this food is that it is balanced to include 60% high-quality animal ingredients and 40% wholesome grains, fruit, vegetables, and nutrients. This means that our dog is getting a well-rounded diet that provides all the essential nutrients they need to stay healthy.

The fiber-rich grain blend, featuring oats, sorghum, and millet, plus pre- and probiotics for dogs, helps provide digestive support, and naturally occurring Omega-3 -amp; Omega-6 fatty acids help support healthy skin and a shiny coat. We have noticed that our dog’s coat looks shinier and healthier since we started feeding them this food.

However, we did find that the food is relatively expensive compared to other dog foods on the market. Additionally, some dogs may not be fond of the taste or texture of the food. It’s also important to note that the food is not recommended for the growth of large size dogs (70 lb. or more as an adult).

Overall, we would recommend ACANA Wholesome Grains Dry Dog Food, Red Meat and Grains, Gluten Free, Beef, Pork, and Lamb Recipe to anyone looking for a high-quality, protein-rich dog food that is also gluten-free. While it may be more expensive than other dog foods, we believe that the quality of the ingredients and the well-rounded nutrition it provides make it worth the investment.

ORIJEN AMAZING GRAINS Original Dry Dog Food

We highly recommend ORIJEN AMAZING GRAINS Original Dry Dog Food for pet owners who want to nourish their dogs with high-quality animal protein and grains.

Pros

• The first five ingredients are fresh or raw chicken, turkey, chicken liver, whole herring, and whole mackerel, providing a strong source of protein, vitamins, and minerals.
• Contains 90% animal ingredients, including ORIJEN WholePrey ingredients, and quality grains sourced from non-GMO crops.
• Includes DHA and EPA from whole herring, mackerel, and pollock oil to support immune function, healthy skin, and a shiny coat.

Cons

• The strong fish smell may be unpleasant for some pet owners.
• Some dogs may not like the taste of the food.
• The price point is higher than other dog food brands.

ORIJEN AMAZING GRAINS Original Dry Dog Food is a high protein dog food kibble tailored to provide maximum nutrition for dogs by helping support 3 key benefits: digestive health, immune support, and healthy skin -amp; coat. The freeze-dried dog food coating offers a burst of raw flavor that dogs instinctively crave.

We appreciate that the included fresh ingredients are delivered refrigerated and the included raw ingredients are delivered frozen. However, it’s important to note that when switching diets, it’s important to transition your dog as it takes time for their digestive system to adapt to the richer nutrient levels in ORIJEN.

Overall, we believe that ORIJEN AMAZING GRAINS Original Dry Dog Food is an excellent choice for pet owners who want to provide their dogs with the most succulent and nutrient-rich parts of the prey.

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

If you’re looking for a high-quality grain food for your furry friend, Blue Buffalo Wilderness High Protein Natural Adult Dry Dog Food plus Wholesome Grains, Salmon is an excellent choice.

Pros

• Packed with real salmon
• Includes wholesome grains for a balanced diet
• Antioxidant-rich LifeSource Bits to support immune system health

Cons

• Some dogs may experience gas
• Off smell may deter some dogs from eating it
• May cause diarrhea in some dogs

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 we’re impressed with the results. Our dog loves the taste, and we’ve noticed that her coat is shinier and she has more energy.

One of the things we love about this food is that it’s packed with real salmon. We feel good knowing that our dog is getting high-quality protein in her diet. Plus, the wholesome grains (including oatmeal, barley, and brown rice) ensure that she’s getting a balanced diet.

We also appreciate that this food includes antioxidant-rich LifeSource Bits. These bits contain a precise blend of vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants to support immune system health and a healthy oxidative balance.

One downside to this food is that some dogs may experience gas after eating it. Additionally, some dogs may be deterred by the off smell of the food. Finally, some dogs may experience diarrhea after eating this food.

Overall, we highly recommend Blue Buffalo Wilderness High Protein Natural Adult Dry Dog Food plus Wholesome Grains, Salmon to any dog owner looking for a high-quality grain food for their furry friend.

Nutro So Simple Meal Complement Wet Dog Food Variety Pack

If you’re looking for a simple wet dog food that’s made with only a handful of natural ingredients, Nutro So Simple Meal Complement Wet Dog Food is a great choice.

Pros

• Made with real chicken and duck as the first ingredients.
• Contains only 7 natural ingredients.
• Free from grains, chicken by-product meal, corn, wheat, and soy.

Cons

• Expensive compared to other dog food options.
• Some dogs may not like the taste.
• Only comes in 2 oz. tubs, which may not be enough for larger dogs.

We recently tried Nutro So Simple Meal Complement Wet Dog Food on our dog and were impressed with the quality of the ingredients. The real chicken and duck made it a tasty treat for our furry friend, and we appreciated that it contained only 7 natural ingredients.

One of the best things about this wet dog food is that it’s free from grains, chicken by-product meal, corn, wheat, and soy. This makes it a great option for dogs with food sensitivities or allergies.

However, we did notice that it was more expensive than some other dog food options, and our dog didn’t seem to enjoy it as much as other wet food we’ve tried. Additionally, the 2 oz. tubs may not be enough for larger dogs, so keep that in mind if you have a bigger furry friend.

Overall, if you’re looking for a high-quality wet dog food that’s made with real, recognizable ingredients and free from common allergens, Nutro So Simple Meal Complement Wet Dog Food is definitely worth considering.

I and Love and You Naked Essentials Dry Dog Food

If you’re looking for a grain-free dog food option, I and Love and You Naked Essentials Dry Dog Food with Chicken Duck is definitely worth considering.

Pros

• Real meat is the first ingredient
• No artificial colors, flavors, or preservatives
• Gluten-free

Cons

• Some dogs may not like the taste
• More expensive than some other brands
• Not suitable for puppies or senior dogs

We recently tried this dog food for our adult dog and were impressed with the quality of the ingredients. The real meat as the first ingredient is a big plus, and we appreciate that there are no artificial colors, flavors, or preservatives. The fact that it’s gluten-free is also a bonus for dogs with sensitivities.

One thing to note is that some dogs may not like the taste. Our dog seemed to enjoy it, but we’ve heard from other dog owners that their pets weren’t as enthusiastic. Additionally, this dog food is more expensive than some other brands, so it may not be the best option for those on a tight budget.

Overall, if you’re willing to spend a bit more for high-quality ingredients, I and Love and You Naked Essentials Dry Dog Food with Chicken Duck is a great choice for your pup.

Solid Gold Nutrientboost Mighty Mini Small Breed Dog Food

If you’re looking for a quality dog food for your small breed furry friend, Solid Gold Nutrientboost Mighty Mini Small Breed Dog Food is worth considering. We’ve tried it with our little pup, and here’s what we think.

Pros

• Mighty Good for Little Dogs – This natural dry dog food is designed to support gut, immune, and coat health for your small puppy, adult, or senior dog.
• Easy on the Teeth -amp; Stomach – The grain and gluten-free kibble is perfect for small mouths and dogs with sensitive stomachs.
• Probiotic Support Formula for Digestion -amp; Immunity – With 90 million probiotics per pound, this dog food supports digestive health, balanced gut flora, and immune system health.

Cons

• Strong Smell – The smell is a bit stronger than other dog foods we’ve tried.
• Price – It’s a bit more expensive than other dog foods on the market.
• May Not Be Suitable for All Dogs – As with any dog food, it’s important to check with your vet to ensure it’s suitable for your furry friend’s unique needs.

We love that this dog food is made with quality ingredients, including real chicken, antioxidants, superfoods, vitamins, minerals, and omega fatty acids. Our little pup seems to enjoy the taste, and we’ve noticed an improvement in his coat and overall health since switching to this dog food. If you’re looking for a natural, grain-free dog food with probiotic support, Solid Gold Nutrientboost Mighty Mini Small Breed Dog Food is definitely worth considering.

Hill’s Science Diet Dry Dog Food, Adult, Small Bites, Chicken -amp; Barley Recipe, 35 lb. Bag

If you’re looking for a premium dry dog food that’s specially formulated for small-breed adult dogs, Hill’s Science Diet Small Bites Adult dry dog food is a great option. With natural ingredients and decades of cutting-edge research, this dog food is designed to provide your furry friend with the nutrition they need to thrive.

Pros

• The small kibble size is perfect for small and toy breeds.
• Provides omega-6s -amp; vitamin E for healthy skin -amp; coat.
• Natural fibers promote healthy digestion.

Cons

• Some dogs may not like the taste.
• The price point is higher than some other dog food brands.
• The bag is quite large and may be difficult to store for those with limited space.

We’ve been using Hill’s Science Diet Small Bites Adult dry dog food for a few months now and have noticed a significant improvement in our dog’s coat and overall health. The small kibble size is perfect for our small-breed dog, and she seems to really enjoy the taste of the chicken and barley recipe.

One of the things we love about this dog food is the natural ingredients. We feel good knowing that we’re feeding our dog a high-quality product that’s made with real, wholesome ingredients. The addition of omega-6s -amp; vitamin E has also helped to improve our dog’s skin and coat, which is a huge bonus.

Another benefit of Hill’s Science Diet Small Bites Adult dry dog food is the natural fibers that promote healthy digestion. We’ve noticed a significant improvement in our dog’s digestive health since switching to this dog food. She seems to digest her food more easily and has had fewer stomach issues overall.

While we do think that Hill’s Science Diet Small Bites Adult dry dog food is a great product, it may not be the right choice for every dog. Some dogs may not like the taste, and the price point is higher than some other dog food brands. Additionally, the bag is quite large and may be difficult to store for those with limited space.

Overall, we would definitely recommend Hill’s Science Diet Small Bites Adult dry dog food to other small-breed dog owners. It’s a high-quality product that’s made with natural ingredients and designed to promote optimal health and nutrition for adult dogs.

Open Farm RawMix Grain-Free Prairie Recipe for Dogs

If you’re looking for a high-quality grain-free dog food, then Open Farm RawMix Grain-Free Prairie Recipe is a great option to consider.

Pros

• Made with humanely sourced poultry
• Includes whole-prey, meat-focused, nutrient-dense kibble recipes with bone broth and freeze-dried raw
• All ingredients are sourced from 3rd party animal welfare certified farms

Cons

• On the expensive side
• Some dogs may not like the taste
• Only available in a 3.5-pound bag

We recently tried this product for our furry friend and were impressed with the quality of the ingredients. The chicken and turkey used in this recipe are 100% animal welfare certified, which means that they are raised in a humane and ethical way.

The RawMix recipes offer whole-prey, meat-focused, nutrient-dense kibble recipes with the added benefits of bone broth and freeze-dried raw. These diets include meat, organs, and bone broth, and deliver optimal taste and nutrition for your pet! This is great for pet parents who are seeking to feed their animals as they would thrive in the wild, with protein-focused diets and the convenient, added nutrient of freeze-dried raw.

At Open Farm, they believe that great nutrition is rooted in the integrity of their ingredients. All of the meat, organ, and bones included in these recipes are sourced from 3rd party animal welfare certified farms. By working exclusively with farmers who share their commitment to exceptional quality and sustainable practices, they can make better food for your pets, while also doing some good for family farms, farm animals, and the environment.

Overall, we would highly recommend Open Farm RawMix Grain-Free Prairie Recipe for Dogs to anyone looking for a high-quality grain-free dog food. While it may be on the expensive side, the quality of the ingredients and the ethical sourcing practices make it well worth the investment for your furry friend’s health and well-being.

Merrick Healthy Grains Premium Adult Dry Dog Food

If you’re looking for a nutrient-rich dog food that supports overall health, Merrick Healthy Grains Premium Adult Dry Dog Food is a great option.

Pros

• Real deboned beef is the first ingredient
• Contains a healthy blend of grains, including quinoa and ancient grains, to support healthy digestion
• Features leading levels of glucosamine and chondroitin for dogs to provide hip and joint support

Cons

• Some dogs may not like the taste
• Bag size may be too large for some households
• May be more expensive than other dog food brands

We’ve been using Merrick Healthy Grains Premium Adult Dry Dog Food for a few weeks now and have noticed a significant improvement in our dog’s overall health. The real deboned beef as the first ingredient helps maintain healthy muscle tissue, and the blend of grains supports healthy digestion.

We appreciate that this dog food contains no potatoes, peas, or lentils, and has no artificial colors, flavors, or preservatives. The added vitamins and minerals provide a balanced diet for our furry friend.

The only downsides we’ve experienced are that our dog can be a bit picky with the taste, and the bag size is a bit large for our household. Additionally, this brand may be more expensive than other dog food brands on the market.

Overall, we highly recommend Merrick Healthy Grains Premium Adult Dry Dog Food for those looking for a high-quality, nutrient-rich dog food that supports overall health.

Blue Buffalo Wilderness High Protein Natural Adult Dry Dog Food plus Wholesome Grains, Chicken 24 lb bag Chicken plus Wholesome Grains 24 Pound (Pack of 1)

We highly recommend the Blue Buffalo Wilderness High Protein Natural Adult Dry Dog Food plus Wholesome Grains for dog owners who want to provide their furry friends with a balanced and nutritious diet. This premium dog food is made with real chicken and wholesome grains, ensuring a protein-rich and balanced blend of complex carbohydrates, fat, and protein that meets your adult dog’s unique energy needs.

Pros

• Packed with real chicken, satisfying your dog’s innate cravings with high-quality deboned chicken.
• Includes wholesome grains, providing complex carbohydrates from oatmeal, barley, and brown rice for a truly balanced diet.
• Antioxidant-rich LifeSource Bits, enhancing the nutrient-dense dry food with a precise blend of antioxidants, vitamins, and minerals to support immune system health, life stage needs, and a healthy oxidative balance.

Cons

• A bit pricey compared to other dog food brands.
• Some dogs may not like the taste of the food.
• May cause digestive issues in some dogs.

Blue Buffalo Wilderness High Protein Natural Adult Dry Dog Food plus Wholesome Grains is made with the finest natural ingredients enhanced with vitamins, minerals, and other nutrients, and it contains no chicken (or poultry) by-product meals, no corn, wheat, or soy, and no artificial flavors or preservatives. This dog food is formulated specifically for adult dogs, with high-quality deboned chicken to support the development of strong, lean, healthy muscles.

We noticed that our dog loved the taste of this food and was always excited to eat it. We also appreciated that it contains wholesome grains that provide our dog with the energy he needs to stay active and healthy. The antioxidant-rich LifeSource Bits are also a great addition to this dog food, as they help support our dog’s immune system health and overall well-being.

Overall, we highly recommend Blue Buffalo Wilderness High Protein Natural Adult Dry Dog Food plus Wholesome Grains to dog owners who want to provide their furry friends with a balanced and nutritious diet. With real chicken, wholesome grains, and antioxidant-rich LifeSource Bits, this dog food is sure to satisfy your dog’s cravings and keep them healthy and happy.

Buying Guide

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

Ingredients

The first thing to look at is the ingredients list. Make sure the food contains high-quality sources of protein, such as chicken, beef, or lamb. Whole grains like brown rice, oatmeal, and barley can also be a good source of fiber and carbohydrates. Avoid foods that contain fillers, by-products, or artificial preservatives.

Nutritional Value

Next, consider the nutritional value of the food. Look for a formula that is balanced and provides all the necessary vitamins and minerals. Check the label to see if the food meets AAFCO (Association of American Feed Control Officials) standards for complete and balanced nutrition.

Special Needs

If your dog has special dietary needs, such as allergies or sensitivities, look for a food that is specifically formulated to meet those needs. For example, there are grain-free options available for dogs with grain allergies or sensitivities.

Price

Finally, consider the price of the food. While it may be tempting to go for the cheapest option, keep in mind that higher-quality foods may be more expensive but can save you money in the long run by keeping your dog healthy and reducing vet bills.

Overall, choosing the best grain food for your dog requires careful consideration of the ingredients, nutritional value, special needs, and price. By taking the time to research and compare different options, you can find a high-quality food that will keep your dog healthy and happy.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the top-rated dry dog foods that include grains?

There are many high-quality dry dog foods that include grains. Some of the top-rated options include Blue Buffalo Life Protection Formula, Hill’s Science Diet, and Purina Pro Plan. When choosing a dry dog food that includes grains, it’s important to look for options that use high-quality ingredients and meet your dog’s nutritional needs.

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 you should feed them. Larger dogs may require a diet that includes more grains to provide them with the energy they need, while smaller dogs may need a diet that includes fewer grains. It’s important to consult with your veterinarian to determine the best diet for your dog based on their size and individual nutritional needs.

What are the benefits of feeding dogs wet food with grains?

Feeding your dog wet food with grains can provide a number of benefits. Wet food can help keep your dog hydrated, and it can also be easier for some dogs to digest. Additionally, wet food can be a good option for dogs who have trouble chewing or who need to gain weight.

Which grains are considered healthiest for a dog’s diet?

Some of the healthiest grains for a dog’s diet include brown rice, barley, and oats. These grains provide a good source of carbohydrates, fiber, and essential nutrients. It’s important to choose high-quality grains that are free from contaminants and are easy for your dog to digest.

Are there specific grains that should be avoided in dog foods?

There are some grains that should be avoided in dog foods, including corn and wheat. These grains can be difficult for some dogs to digest and may cause allergic reactions. It’s important to read the ingredients list carefully when choosing a grain-inclusive dog food to ensure that it does not contain any grains that may be harmful to your dog.

How do I choose the best grain-inclusive food for a puppy?

When choosing a grain-inclusive food for a puppy, it’s important to look for options that are specifically formulated for puppies. These foods will provide the essential nutrients that your puppy needs to grow and develop. Additionally, it’s important to choose a food that is appropriate for your puppy’s breed and size. Consult with your veterinarian for recommendations on the best grain-inclusive food for your puppy.