Best Grains for Homemade Dog Food: Top Choices for Your Furry Friend

Grains are a crucial part of a dog’s diet, providing them with essential nutrients and energy. When it comes to homemade dog food, choosing the right grains is just as important as selecting quality protein sources. In this article, we’ll discuss the best grains for homemade dog food, taking into account factors such as nutritional value, digestibility, and taste.

One critical thing to keep in mind when selecting grains for your dog’s homemade food is their individual needs. Some dogs may have allergies or sensitivities to certain grains, while others may require a higher or lower amount of carbohydrates in their diet. Consulting with a veterinarian or canine nutritionist is always recommended before making any significant dietary changes for your dog.

That being said, there are several grains that are generally well-tolerated and provide excellent nutritional value for dogs. In the following sections, we’ll take a closer look at these grains and their benefits for homemade dog food.

Best Grains for Homemade Dog Food

We understand the importance of providing our furry friends with a wholesome and balanced diet. One way to achieve this is by making homemade dog food using high-quality ingredients. Grains are a great source of carbohydrates, fiber, and essential nutrients for dogs. However, not all grains are created equal, and some may be difficult for dogs to digest. That’s why we’ve compiled a list of the best grains for homemade dog food. These grains are nutritious, easy to digest, and provide a delicious addition to your dog’s diet.

The Honest Kitchen Human Grade Dehydrated Whole Grain Dog Food – Complete Meal or Topper – Chicken 10 lb (makes 40 lbs) Chicken 10 Pound (Pack of 1)

If you’re looking for a high-quality, human-grade dog food that’s easy to prepare and suitable for dogs of all breeds and sizes, The Honest Kitchen’s Whole Grain Dehydrated Dog Food Recipe is a great option. It’s made with real, whole food ingredients like free-range chicken, organic oats, carrots, and bananas, and is produced in a human food facility to ensure maximum quality and safety.

Pros

• This recipe is suitable for puppies and adult dogs of all breeds and sizes, including large breed puppies and adult mothers.
• It contains no preservatives, by-products, fillers, GMO ingredients, corn, wheat, or soy.
• The recipe is 100% human grade, meaning that it is made with the same quality and safety standards as people food.

Cons

• This recipe may not be suitable for dogs with certain dietary restrictions or allergies.
• Some dogs may not like the taste or texture of the dehydrated food.
• The cost may be higher than other dog food options.

We’ve been using The Honest Kitchen’s Whole Grain Dehydrated Dog Food Recipe for several months now, and we’ve been very pleased with the results. Our dog loves the taste of the food and eagerly waits for mealtime. We appreciate that the recipe is made with high-quality, human-grade ingredients and contains no fillers or by-products.

One of the things we like most about this recipe is how easy it is to prepare. All you need to do is add warm water and wait three minutes for the food to rehydrate. This makes it a great option for busy pet owners who want to provide their dogs with a healthy, homemade meal without spending hours in the kitchen.

Another thing we appreciate about this recipe is how versatile it is. You can serve it alone as a complete meal or use it as a topper for dry food. It’s also suitable for puppies and adult dogs of all breeds and sizes, which makes it a great option for multi-dog households.

Overall, we highly recommend The Honest Kitchen’s Whole Grain Dehydrated Dog Food Recipe to any pet owner looking for a high-quality, human-grade dog food that’s easy to prepare and suitable for dogs of all breeds and sizes.

JustFoodForDogs Lamb -amp; Brown Rice Recipe

We highly recommend the JustFoodForDogs Lamb -amp; Brown Rice Recipe for pet owners who want to make their own homemade dog food. This nutrient blend is formulated by veterinarians and is perfect for adult dogs, older dogs, and dogs with smaller appetites.

Pros

• The nutrient blend comes with a cooking guide and step-by-step instructions, making it easy to prepare homemade dog food.
• The Lamb -amp; Brown Rice recipe is gluten-free and made with high-quality ingredients like ground lamb, long-grain brown rice, spinach, cauliflower, carrots, lamb liver, and blueberries.
• The nutrient blend is formulated to meet AAFCO recommendations and is made with 100% human-grade nutraceuticals regulated by the FDA.

Cons

• The nutrient blend alone does not constitute a balanced meal, and additional whole-food ingredients must be purchased separately.
• The nutrient blend yields approximately 39 lbs of food and makes three full batches or six half batches, which may not be enough for larger dogs or households with multiple dogs.
• The nutrient blend is intended for intermittent or supplemental feeding and may not be suitable for long-term feeding without additional supplementation.

Overall, we believe that the JustFoodForDogs Lamb -amp; Brown Rice Recipe is an excellent choice for pet owners who want to make their own homemade dog food. With its high-quality ingredients, balanced nutrient blend, and easy-to-follow cooking guide, this product is a great option for dogs with picky appetites or food allergies.

The Honest Kitchen Human Grade Dehydrated Grain Free Veggie, Nut -amp; Seed Base Mix for Dogs 3 lb – Kindly Veggie, Nut -amp; Seed 48 Fl Oz (Pack of 1)

If you’re looking for a high-quality base mix to create homemade dog food, The Honest Kitchen Human Grade Dehydrated Grain Free Veggie, Nut -amp; Seed Base Mix is a great option to consider. This product is made with human grade ingredients and produced in a human food facility, making it a safe and healthy choice for your furry friend.

Pros

• Versatile base mix for homemade dog food
• Allows for raw feeding
• Made with human grade ingredients

Cons

• Requires additional protein source
• May not be suitable for dogs with certain dietary restrictions
• More expensive than traditional dog food options

We’ve been using The Honest Kitchen products for years and have developed a trust in the quality of their ingredients. The Kindly Veggie, Nut -amp; Seed Base Mix is no exception. This grain-free mix is made with dehydrated ingredients, making it easy to store and use. Plus, it’s a great option for raw feeders and home cooks who want to create their own meals for their dogs.

One of the best things about this base mix is that it allows you to add your own protein source. This means that you can tailor the recipe to your dog’s specific dietary needs and preferences. It’s a great way to ensure that your dog is getting the right balance of nutrients in their diet.

However, it’s important to note that this recipe may not be suitable for dogs with certain dietary restrictions. Be sure to consult with your veterinarian before making any changes to your dog’s diet.

Overall, we highly recommend The Honest Kitchen Human Grade Dehydrated Grain Free Veggie, Nut -amp; Seed Base Mix for dogs. It’s a high-quality product made with natural ingredients that you can trust. While it may be more expensive than traditional dog food options, the benefits of homemade dog food are worth the investment.

Stella -amp; Chewy’s Wild Red Dry Dog Food Raw Coated High Protein Grain -amp; Legume Free Ocean Recipe, 3.5 lb. Bag

We highly recommend Stella -amp; Chewy’s Wild Red Dry Dog Food Raw Coated High Protein Grain -amp; Legume Free Ocean Recipe for pet owners who want to give their dogs a nutritious and delicious meal.

Pros

• The recipe contains responsibly sourced, animal-based protein from multiple meat sources, which satisfies your dog’s craving for meat.
• The kibble is coated with freeze-dried raw meat, providing a protein-rich taste that dogs love.
• The grain-free recipe is easy for dogs of all life stages to digest and has no unnecessary fillers.

Cons

• The product is pricey compared to other dog food brands.
• Some reviewers have reported issues with the bag being cut open during shipping, causing the food to spill out.
• The item expires quickly, so it’s important to check the expiration date before purchasing.

Stella -amp; Chewy’s Wild Red Dry Dog Food Raw Coated High Protein Grain -amp; Legume Free Ocean Recipe is a great option for pet owners who want to provide their dogs with high-quality, nutritious food. The recipe contains whole prey ingredients that mimic what dogs ate in the wild, providing them with the necessary nutrients to thrive.

The kibble is coated with freeze-dried raw meat, which not only adds a delicious taste but also provides additional nutrition. The recipe is grain-free, making it easy for dogs of all ages to digest, and it has no unnecessary fillers.

While the product is more expensive than other dog food brands, it’s worth the investment for pet owners who want to give their dogs the best possible nutrition. However, it’s important to check the expiration date before purchasing, as some reviewers have reported issues with the item expiring quickly.

Overall, we highly recommend Stella -amp; Chewy’s Wild Red Dry Dog Food Raw Coated High Protein Grain -amp; Legume Free Ocean Recipe for pet owners who want to provide their dogs with a nutritious and delicious meal.

Nature’s Recipe Dry Dog Food, Grain Free Salmon, Sweet Potato -amp; Pumpkin Recipe, 24 lb. Bag

If you’re looking for a grain-free option for your dog’s homemade food, Nature’s Recipe Grain Free Salmon, Sweet Potato -amp; Pumpkin Recipe is a great choice.

Pros

• Real salmon is the number one ingredient, providing a quality protein source for your dog’s muscles.
• Nutrient-dense carbohydrate sources like sweet potato and pumpkin are used instead of added corn or wheat, which can be difficult for dogs to digest.
• Omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids from salmon help support skin and coat health, while antioxidants zinc and vitamin E help support a healthy immune system.

Cons

• Some customers have reported that the food smelled and looked different than previous bags they had purchased.
• While most dogs seem to enjoy the taste of this food, a few picky eaters may not be as enthusiastic.
• This food is a bit on the expensive side compared to other dog foods on the market.

We’ve been using Nature’s Recipe Grain Free Salmon, Sweet Potato -amp; Pumpkin Recipe for our dog for a few months now and have been very happy with the results. Our dog seems to love the taste and has had no digestive issues since we switched to this food. We appreciate that the ingredients are high-quality and that the food is grain-free, which is important to us since our dog has some food sensitivities.

One thing to note is that this food is a bit on the expensive side compared to other dog foods on the market. However, we feel that the quality of the ingredients and the benefits to our dog’s health are worth the extra cost.

Overall, we highly recommend Nature’s Recipe Grain Free Salmon, Sweet Potato -amp; Pumpkin Recipe for anyone looking for a high-quality, grain-free option for their dog’s homemade food.

Instinct Raw Boost Healthy Weight Grain Free Recipe with Real Chicken Natural Dry Dog Food, 20 lb. Bag 2.5 Gallon (Pack of 1)

If you’re looking for a high-quality dog food, Instinct Raw Boost Healthy Weight Grain Free Recipe with Real Chicken Natural Dry Dog Food might be just what you need. With all-natural ingredients and a grain-free recipe, this dog food is designed to help your dog maintain a healthy weight and enjoy a balanced diet.

Pros

• The freeze-dried raw chicken bites are a great addition to the kibble, providing a boost of nutrition and flavor.
• The recipe is grain-free and made without artificial colors or preservatives, making it a great choice for dogs with food sensitivities.
• The L-Carnitine in the recipe helps to promote a healthy metabolism, making it easier for your dog to maintain a healthy weight.

Cons

• This dog food is on the expensive side, so it might not be the best choice for pet owners on a tight budget.
• Some dogs might not enjoy the taste of the kibble or the freeze-dried chicken bites, so it might take some time to find the right balance for your pup.
• The kibble is quite hard and crunchy, which might not be ideal for dogs with dental issues.

We’ve been using Instinct Raw Boost Healthy Weight Grain Free Recipe with Real Chicken Natural Dry Dog Food for a few weeks now, and we’re impressed with the results. Our dog seems to enjoy the taste of the food, and we’ve noticed that he’s maintaining a healthy weight despite being a bit of a couch potato.

One thing we really like about this dog food is the freeze-dried raw chicken bites. They add a nice texture and flavor to the kibble, and they’re packed with nutrition. Plus, it’s great to know that our dog is getting a boost of raw, natural ingredients with every meal.

Of course, there are some downsides to this dog food. It’s definitely on the expensive side, so it might not be the best choice for pet owners on a tight budget. Additionally, some dogs might not enjoy the taste of the kibble or the freeze-dried chicken bites, so it might take some time to find the right balance for your pup.

Overall, we’d recommend Instinct Raw Boost Healthy Weight Grain Free Recipe with Real Chicken Natural Dry Dog Food to pet owners who are looking for a high-quality dog food that can help their dog maintain a healthy weight. With all-natural ingredients and a grain-free recipe, this dog food is a great choice for dogs with food sensitivities or other dietary restrictions.

Halo Holistic Plant-Based Recipe With Superfoods, Complete Digestive Health, Vegan Dry Dog Food Bag, Adult Formula, 21-lb Bag Plant-Based with Superfoods 21 Pound (Pack of 1)

We highly recommend this product for pet owners who want to feed their dogs a plant-based diet. Halo Holistic Plant-Based Recipe is a complete and balanced vegan dog food made with high-quality ingredients for optimal nutrition and digestive support.

Pros

• This vegetarian dog food is made with no animal ingredients, making it a great choice for pet owners who want to avoid meat-based products.
• Halo Holistic Plant-Based Recipe is 100% complete and balanced, providing all the necessary vitamins and minerals for adult dogs.
• The prebiotics, probiotics, and postbiotics in this vegan dog food provide digestive care and immune support for dogs.

Cons

• Some dogs may not like the taste of this plant-based dog food, especially if they are used to meat-based diets.
• The kibble size may be too large for some smaller breeds of dogs.
• This product may be more expensive compared to other dog food options.

If you’re looking for a high-quality plant-based dog food, Halo Holistic Plant-Based Recipe is an excellent choice. Made with non-GMO ingredients and no corn, wheat, or soy, this holistic dog food is easy to digest and provides optimal nutrition for your furry friend.

The optimal balance of omega fatty acids in this vegan dog food helps promote healthy skin and coat for dogs. Additionally, the absence of artificial flavors, preservatives, or colors makes this product a great choice for pet owners who want to avoid harmful additives in their dog’s food.

Overall, we highly recommend Halo Holistic Plant-Based Recipe for pet owners looking for a healthy and nutritious vegan dog food option.

Nature’s Recipe Original Dry Dog Food for Adult Dogs, Lamb -amp; Rice Recipe, 24 lb Bag Lamb -amp; Rice 24 Pound (Pack of 1)

If you’re looking for a high-quality dog food that’s packed with wholesome ingredients, Nature’s Recipe Original Dry Dog Food is definitely worth considering.

Pros

• The lamb and rice recipe features real, protein-rich lamb as the #1 ingredient to help support strong muscles.
• Nutrient-dense whole grains, such as rice, oatmeal, and barley, contain fiber to help support healthy digestion.
• Made with no added corn, wheat, soy, or artificial flavors, colors, or preservatives.

Cons

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

We’ve been using Nature’s Recipe Original Dry Dog Food for a few months now, and we’ve noticed a significant improvement in our dog’s overall health and energy levels. The lamb and rice recipe is packed with high-quality ingredients that provide all the necessary nutrients for our dog’s optimal health.

One of the things we love about this dog food is that it contains no added corn, wheat, soy, or artificial flavors, colors, or preservatives. This gives us peace of mind knowing that our dog is getting a wholesome and nutritious meal every time.

The only downside we’ve noticed is that some dogs may not like the taste of lamb, which could be a problem if your dog is a picky eater. Additionally, the kibble size may be too large for small dogs, which could make it difficult for them to eat.

Overall, we highly recommend Nature’s Recipe Original Dry Dog Food for Adult Dogs, Lamb -amp; Rice Recipe, 24 lb Bag Lamb -amp; Rice 24 Pound (Pack of 1) to anyone looking for a high-quality dog food that’s packed with wholesome ingredients.

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

We highly recommend ACANA Wholesome Grains Dry Dog Food, Red Meat and Grains, Gluten Free, Beef, Pork, and Lamb Recipe for dog owners who want to provide their furry friends with quality nutrition.

Pros

• The high protein dog food kibble recipe features farm-raised beef, Yorkshire pork, and raw lamb, providing a rich source of protein for dogs.
• The fiber-rich grain blend, featuring oats, sorghum, and millet, plus pre- and probiotics, helps provide dog digestive support, and naturally occurring Omega-3 -amp; Omega-6 fatty acids help support healthy skin and a shiny coat.
• ACANA balances protein-rich animal ingredients with wholesome grains to support a healthy digestive environment, and antioxidant-rich ingredients help support a healthy immune system.

Cons

• The product is relatively expensive compared to other dog foods.
• Some customers may find the kibble size too large for smaller dogs.
• The bag size is relatively small, which may not last long for larger dogs.

ACANA Wholesome Grains Dry Dog Food is a premium dog food made in the USA with quality ingredients from around the world. The included fresh ingredients use refrigeration as the sole method of preservation, and the included raw ingredients are frozen at their peak freshness. This product is suitable for All Life Stages – except for the growth of large size dogs (70 lb. or more as an adult).

In our experience, our dogs love the taste of ACANA Wholesome Grains Dry Dog Food, and we’ve noticed an improvement in their overall health and coat condition. The product is also gluten-free, and no artificial flavors, colors, or preservatives are added in their kitchen, ensuring that our furry family member gets only the best.

Overall, if you’re looking for a high-quality dog food that provides your pet with the necessary nutrients for a healthy and happy life, we highly recommend ACANA Wholesome Grains Dry Dog Food, Red Meat and Grains, Gluten Free, Beef, Pork, and Lamb Recipe.

Merrick Healthy Grains Premium Adult Dry Dog Food

If you’re looking for a natural and wholesome dog food, the Merrick Healthy Grains Premium Adult Dry Dog Food is a great option for your furry friend.

Pros

• Real deboned chicken is the first ingredient, providing high-quality protein for your dog’s muscle health.
• The blend of whole grains, including quinoa and ancient grains, supports healthy digestion.
• The added glucosamine and chondroitin support your dog’s hip and joint health.

Cons

• The price may be higher compared to other dog food brands.
• Some dogs may not find the taste appealing.
• The kibble size may be too large for some smaller dog breeds.

We’ve been using this dog food for a few months now and have noticed positive changes in our dog’s overall health. The real deboned chicken provides a good source of protein, and the whole grains and added vitamins and minerals ensure that our dog is getting a balanced diet. We also appreciate that this dog food contains no potatoes, peas, or lentils, which can be common allergens for some dogs.

One thing to note is that the kibble size may be too large for some smaller dog breeds, so it’s important to monitor your dog’s eating habits to ensure they’re not struggling to chew the food. Additionally, the price may be higher compared to other dog food brands, but we believe that the quality of the ingredients justifies the cost.

Overall, we highly recommend the Merrick Healthy Grains Premium Adult Dry Dog Food for pet owners who are looking for a natural and wholesome option for their furry friends.

Buying Guide

When it comes to choosing the best grains for homemade dog food, there are a few factors to consider. We want to make sure we are providing our furry friends with the best possible nutrition, so it’s important to choose high-quality grains that meet their dietary needs.

Here are some features to look for when choosing grains for homemade dog food:

Nutritional Value

The first thing to consider is the nutritional value of the grain. Look for grains that are high in protein, fiber, and other essential nutrients that dogs need to thrive. Whole grains are a great choice because they contain all parts of the grain, including the bran, germ, and endosperm, which provide a range of nutrients.

Digestibility

Another important factor to consider is digestibility. Some grains can be difficult for dogs to digest, which can lead to digestive issues like bloating, gas, and diarrhea. Look for grains that are easy to digest, like brown rice, oatmeal, and quinoa.

Quality

When choosing grains for homemade dog food, it’s important to choose high-quality products. Look for grains that are free from contaminants and have been processed in a way that preserves their nutritional value.

Variety

Finally, it’s important to provide your dog with a variety of grains to ensure they are getting a balanced diet. Mix and match different grains to provide a range of nutrients and flavors. Some great options include brown rice, quinoa, oats, barley, and millet.

By considering these factors, you can choose the best grains for homemade dog food that will provide your furry friend with the nutrition they need to stay healthy and happy.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the healthiest grains to include in homemade dog food?

When it comes to choosing grains for homemade dog food, it’s important to choose whole grains that are high in fiber and nutrients. Some of the healthiest grains to include in your dog’s diet are brown rice, quinoa, barley, and oats. These grains are easy to digest and provide a good source of carbohydrates for your dog.

Are grains necessary in a dog’s homemade diet, and if so, which ones?

Grains are not necessary in a dog’s homemade diet, but they can provide a good source of energy and nutrients. If you do choose to include grains in your dog’s diet, it’s important to choose whole grains that are high in fiber and nutrients. Some good options include brown rice, quinoa, barley, and oats.

What are some vet-approved grains for homemade dog food recipes?

If you’re unsure about which grains to include in your dog’s homemade diet, it’s always best to consult with your veterinarian. Some vet-approved grains for homemade dog food recipes include brown rice, quinoa, barley, and oats.

How can I ensure my homemade dog food is nutritionally complete with the inclusion of grains?

Including grains in your dog’s homemade diet can provide a good source of energy and nutrients, but it’s important to ensure that the diet is nutritionally complete. To make sure your dog is getting all the necessary nutrients, it’s best to consult with your veterinarian or a veterinary nutritionist. They can help you create a balanced and complete homemade diet that includes grains.

What are affordable grain options for homemade dog food that are still nutritious?

If you’re on a budget, there are still plenty of affordable grain options for homemade dog food that are nutritious. Some good options include brown rice, oats, and barley. These grains are easy to find and provide a good source of carbohydrates and nutrients for your dog.

What is the appropriate serving size of grains in homemade dog food for different dog weights?

The appropriate serving size of grains in homemade dog food will depend on your dog’s weight and activity level. As a general rule, dogs should consume about 50% to 60% of their diet in the form of carbohydrates, including grains. Your veterinarian or a veterinary nutritionist can help you determine the appropriate serving size of grains for your dog’s specific needs.