Best Natural Dog Food: A Comprehensive Guide to Choosing the Right One for Your Furry Friend

Dog owners want the best for their furry friends, and that includes their diet. With so many options available, it can be challenging to determine the best food for your dog. Natural dog food is a popular choice among pet owners who want to provide their dogs with a healthy and nutritious diet.

Natural dog food is made with whole food ingredients, and it doesn’t contain any artificial preservatives, colors, or flavors. These types of foods can provide dogs with a balanced diet that meets their nutritional needs. However, not all natural dog foods are created equal, and it’s essential to pay attention to the ingredients list and nutritional information when selecting a product.

When choosing the best natural dog food, it’s crucial to consider the specific needs of your dog. Factors such as age, breed, and activity level can influence the nutritional requirements of your furry friend. Additionally, you should look for natural dog food that is free from common allergens such as wheat, soy, and corn.

After conducting extensive research and testing, we have identified the top natural dog foods on the market. Our team of experts has considered the quality of ingredients, nutritional value, and customer reviews to determine the best options for your furry friend. With our recommendations, you can be confident that you are providing your dog with the best natural dog food available.

Best Natural Dog Foods

As dog owners, we all want to provide the best nutrition for our furry friends. With so many options available, it can be overwhelming to choose the right food. That’s why we’ve compiled a list of the best natural dog foods on the market. These products are made with high-quality ingredients that are free from artificial additives, preservatives, and fillers. Whether your dog has specific dietary needs or you simply want to give them the best, these natural dog foods are sure to satisfy.

Natural Balance Limited Ingredient Small Breed Adult Grain-Free Dry Dog Food, Salmon -amp; Sweet Potato Recipe, 4 Pound (Pack of 1)

If you’re looking for a natural dog food option, Natural Balance Limited Ingredient Small Breed Adult Grain-Free Dry Dog Food, Salmon -amp; Sweet Potato Recipe, 4 Pound (Pack of 1) is a great choice. Our dogs loved it, and we were impressed with the quality ingredients and the fact that it’s grain-free.

Pros

• Salmon is the first animal protein source, providing essential protein and amino acids to help maintain strong muscles
• Sweet potatoes are included as a grain-free source of fiber to help support digestive health
• Specially formulated for small dogs, with smaller kibble sizes that are easier for them to eat

Cons

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

We were impressed with the quality of the ingredients in this dog food, and our dogs seemed to love the taste. The salmon and sweet potato formula is a great choice for dogs with sensitive stomachs or allergies, as it contains no added peas, pea protein, lentils, legumes, corn, wheat, or soy.

The small kibble size is perfect for small dogs, and we noticed that our dogs had an easier time eating this food than some other brands we’ve tried. We also appreciated the fact that it’s grain-free, as we try to avoid grains in our dogs’ diets whenever possible.

Overall, we would definitely recommend Natural Balance Limited Ingredient Small Breed Adult Grain-Free Dry Dog Food, Salmon -amp; Sweet Potato Recipe, 4 Pound (Pack of 1) to anyone looking for a high-quality, natural dog food option. While it may be more expensive than some other brands, we believe that the quality of the ingredients and the benefits to our dogs’ health and well-being make it worth the extra cost.

Natural Balance Limited Ingredient Adult Dry Dog Food with Healthy Grains, Beef -amp; Brown Rice Recipe, 4 Pound (Pack of 1) Beef -amp; Brown Rice 4 Pound (Pack of 1)

If you’re looking for a natural dog food that is made with premium ingredients and without common allergens, then the Natural Balance Limited Ingredient Adult Dry Dog Food with Healthy Grains, Beef -amp; Brown Rice Recipe might be the perfect fit for your furry friend.

Pros

• The first ingredient is real beef, which provides essential protein and amino acids to help maintain strong muscles.
• Made with easily digestible whole grain brown rice, which is a healthy and rich source of fiber for digestive health.
• Nutritious ingredients such as beef and brown rice are included, which provide essential nutrients to help maintain your dog’s healthy immune system.

Cons

• The kibble is really hard and may not be suitable for dogs with dental issues.
• The small size of the bag may not be enough for larger dogs or for those who eat more.
• The price point might be too high for some pet owners.

We recently tried out this dog food on our own furry friend and were impressed with the quality of the ingredients and the fact that it is made without commonly added ingredients like peas, corn, wheat or soy. Our dog seemed to love the taste and had no digestive issues after eating it.

One thing to note is that the kibble is quite hard, which may not be suitable for dogs with dental issues or those who prefer softer food. Additionally, the small size of the bag might not be enough for larger dogs or for those who eat more.

Overall, if you’re looking for a high-quality natural dog food that is made with premium ingredients and without common allergens, then the Natural Balance Limited Ingredient Adult Dry Dog Food with Healthy Grains, Beef -amp; Brown Rice Recipe might be worth trying out.

Natural Balance Limited Ingredient Adult Grain-Free Dry Dog Food, Reserve Sweet Potato -amp; Bison Recipe, 4 Pound (Pack of 1) Sweet Potato -amp; Bison 4 Pound (Pack of 1)

If you’re looking for a natural dog food that’s free from fillers, added corn, wheat or soy, and artificial flavors, colors, or preservatives, then the Natural Balance L.I.D. Limited Ingredient Diets Sweet Potato -amp; Bison Formula is a great choice. It’s made with purposefully selected ingredients that provide a complete and balanced diet to help support the nutritional needs of adult dogs of all sizes. We recommend this product for dogs with sensitive stomachs, irritable skin, or allergies.

Pros

• The bison is the single animal protein source that provides essential protein and amino acids to help maintain strong muscles.
• The sweet potatoes are included as a grain-free source of fiber to help support digestive health.
• The recipe is crafted with nutritious ingredients such as pea protein, fish oil, and sweet potatoes, which provide essential nutrients to help maintain your dog’s healthy immune system.

Cons

• The price point is a bit higher than other dog food brands.
• Some dogs may not like the taste or texture of the food.
• The bag size may not be enough for larger dogs, so you may need to purchase more frequently.

We recently tried this product on our dog who has a sensitive stomach, and we were pleased with the results. Our dog was able to digest the food easily, and we noticed an improvement in his coat and skin. The limited ingredients also helped reduce the number of allergies he experienced. We also appreciated the safety and transparency of the “Feed with Confidence” program, which tests every batch of food from start to finish, ensuring safety with every bite.

Overall, we highly recommend the Natural Balance L.I.D. Limited Ingredient Diets Sweet Potato -amp; Bison Formula for pet owners who want a natural dog food that’s free from fillers, added corn, wheat or soy, and artificial flavors, colors, or preservatives. It’s a great choice for dogs with sensitive stomachs, irritable skin, or allergies, and it provides a complete and balanced diet to help support the nutritional needs of adult dogs of all sizes.

Natural Balance Limited Ingredient Adult Grain-Free Dry Dog Food, Reserve Sweet Potato -amp; Bison Recipe, 22 Pound (Pack of 1)

If you’re looking for a natural dog food that is free from fillers, artificial flavors, and preservatives, then the Natural Balance Limited Ingredient Adult Grain-Free Dry Dog Food is an excellent choice. Our experience with this product has been positive, and we recommend it to anyone who wants to provide their furry friend with a nutritious and balanced diet.

Pros

• The bison is a single animal protein source that provides essential protein and amino acids to help maintain strong muscles.
• Sweet potatoes are included as a grain-free source of fiber to help support digestive health.
• The recipe is crafted with nutritious ingredients such as pea protein, fish oil, and sweet potatoes, providing essential nutrients to help maintain your dog’s healthy immune system.

Cons

• The product is a bit expensive compared to other dog foods.
• Some dogs may not like the taste of bison.
• The kibble size may be too big for smaller dogs.

We appreciate that Natural Balance has carefully chosen a simplified list of premium ingredients to help support a healthy coat, skin, and digestive system. The single animal protein source, combined with no added grain, soy, gluten, or artificial colors or flavors, makes it a suitable option for dogs with sensitive stomachs, irritable skin, or allergies.

The sweet potato and bison formula is complete and balanced, providing essential nutrients to help maintain your dog’s healthy immune system. We also appreciate that Natural Balance’s ‘Feed with Confidence’ program tests every batch of food from start to finish, ensuring safety with every bite. You can validate the bag on their site or call their Customer Care Team of Registered Veterinary Technicians.

In conclusion, if you’re looking for a natural dog food that is free from fillers and artificial flavors, the Natural Balance Limited Ingredient Adult Grain-Free Dry Dog Food is an excellent choice. With high-quality ingredients and a complete and balanced recipe, it’s a great way to support your furry friend’s nutritional needs.

Natural Balance Vegetarian Dry Dog Formula

If you’re looking for a complete and balanced alternative to a meat-based diet for your furry friend, the Natural Balance Vegetarian Dry Dog Formula is a great option.

Pros

• The formula is vegetarian and vegan, making it a great choice for dogs with meat allergies or for pet owners who prefer a plant-based diet for their pets.
• The simplified list of premium ingredients in the formula helps support a healthy coat, skin, and digestive system, making it a great option for dogs with sensitive stomachs or skin irritations.
• The ‘Feed with Confidence’ program tests every batch of food from start to finish, ensuring safety with every bite.

Cons

• Some dogs may not like the taste of the vegetarian formula, so it may take some time to transition them to the new food.
• The formula may not be suitable for dogs with certain health conditions that require a specific diet.
• The price point may be higher than other dog food brands.

We recently tried the Natural Balance Vegetarian Dry Dog Formula for our dog who has a sensitive stomach and skin allergies. We were pleased to see that the formula helped improve our dog’s coat and skin, and he seemed to enjoy the taste of the food. We also appreciated the transparency and safety measures taken by Natural Balance in their ‘Feed with Confidence’ program.

Overall, we would recommend the Natural Balance Vegetarian Dry Dog Formula for pet owners looking for a meat-free alternative for their furry friend.

NUTRO ULTRA Adult Weight Management High Protein Natural Dry Dog Food for Weight Control with a Trio of Proteins from Chicken, Lamb and Salmon, 30 lb. Bag

If you’re looking for a high-quality dog food that is both nutritious and delicious, NUTRO ULTRA Adult Weight Management Dry Dog Food is definitely worth considering. With real chicken as the #1 ingredient, this dog food is specially formulated for overweight adult dogs, helping them maintain a healthy weight while providing complete and balanced nutrition in every bowl.

Pros

• Trio of protein from chicken, lamb, and salmon—chicken is the #1 ingredient—specially formulated for overweight adult dogs to help with healthy weight management
• Made with high-quality ingredients (plus vitamins, minerals, and other nutrients) and provides complete and balanced nutrition for adult dogs in every bowl
• NUTRO ULTRA Dry Dog Food is made with high-quality ingredients carefully sourced from our trusted network of farmers and suppliers.

Cons

• Trace amounts of genetically modified material may be present due to potential cross-contact during manufacturing.
• May not be suitable for dogs with certain dietary restrictions or allergies.
• Some dogs may not enjoy the taste or texture of this dog food.

As someone who has tried various dog foods over the years, I was impressed with the quality and taste of NUTRO ULTRA Adult Weight Management Dry Dog Food. Not only did my dog enjoy the taste, but I also appreciated the fact that it is made with high-quality ingredients and provides complete and balanced nutrition. Additionally, the fact that it is specially formulated for overweight adult dogs made it a great choice for my pup who needed to shed a few pounds.

One thing to keep in mind is that trace amounts of genetically modified material may be present due to potential cross-contact during manufacturing. While this may not be a concern for some pet owners, those who are looking for a completely non-GMO dog food may want to consider other options.

Overall, I would highly recommend NUTRO ULTRA Adult Weight Management Dry Dog Food to anyone looking for a high-quality dog food that is both nutritious and delicious. With a trio of protein from chicken, lamb, and salmon, as well as a blend of 15 vibrant superfoods like coconut, chia, kale, and blueberries, this dog food is sure to satisfy and nourish your furry friend.

Natural Balance Low Calorie Dry Dog Food

If you’re looking for a natural dog food that can help your furry friend maintain a healthy weight, Natural Balance Low Calorie Dry Dog Food is a great option.

Pros

• Chicken meal is the first ingredient, providing essential protein and amino acids to help maintain strong muscles.
• Targeted nutrition formulated with quality protein, wholesome grains, added vitamins, and a special fiber blend to help your dog feel full and satisfied.
• Ultra-reduced calories, made with the same whole ingredients your dog loves, this delicious, reduced-calorie formula has fewer calories to help your dog maintain a healthy weight.

Cons

• Some dogs may not like the taste.
• Some pet owners may find the price a bit high compared to other dog food brands.
• The kibble size may not be suitable for smaller dog breeds.

We’ve been using Natural Balance Low Calorie Dry Dog Food for a few months now, and we’ve noticed a significant improvement in our dog’s weight. The chicken and salmon meal recipe provides a great source of protein, and the special fiber blend keeps our dog feeling full and satisfied. We also love that it’s made with superfoods and essential vitamins and minerals to help maintain a healthy immune system.

One thing to note is that some dogs may not like the taste of this dog food. However, we found that mixing in a bit of wet food or broth can help entice picky eaters. Additionally, the kibble size may not be suitable for smaller dog breeds, so keep that in mind when purchasing.

Overall, we highly recommend Natural Balance Low Calorie Dry Dog Food for pet owners looking for a natural, high-quality dog food that can help their furry friend maintain a healthy weight.

Natural Balance Limited Ingredient Adult Dry Dog Food with Healthy Grains, Salmon -amp; Brown Rice Recipe, 24 Pound (Pack of 1) Salmon -amp; Brown Rice 24 Pound (Pack of 1)

If you’re looking for a high-quality, natural dog food that is both delicious and nutritious, Natural Balance Limited Ingredient Adult Dry Dog Food with Healthy Grains, Salmon -amp; Brown Rice Recipe, 24 Pound (Pack of 1) is an excellent choice.

Pros

• The first ingredient is real salmon, which provides essential protein and amino acids to help maintain strong muscles.
• Made with no gluten ingredients and contains whole-grain brown rice, which is a healthy and rich source of fiber for digestive health.
• Complete and balanced with essential vitamins and minerals for adult dogs of all sizes.

Cons

• Some dogs may not like the taste of salmon.
• The kibble is really hard, which may be difficult for some dogs to chew.
• The bag is quite heavy, making it difficult to transport.

We recently tried this dog food and were impressed with the quality of the ingredients. The first ingredient is real salmon, which provides essential protein and amino acids to help maintain strong muscles. The addition of whole-grain brown rice also provides a healthy and rich source of fiber for digestive health. We appreciate that this dog food is made with no gluten ingredients and is complete and balanced with essential vitamins and minerals for adult dogs of all sizes.

One potential downside is that some dogs may not like the taste of salmon. Additionally, the kibble is quite hard, which may be difficult for some dogs to chew. Finally, the bag is quite heavy, making it difficult to transport. Overall, we recommend Natural Balance Limited Ingredient Adult Dry Dog Food with Healthy Grains, Salmon -amp; Brown Rice Recipe, 24 Pound (Pack of 1) for any dog owner looking for a high-quality, natural dog food that provides essential nutrients and is made with high-quality ingredients.

Pawstruck All Natural Air Dried Dog Food w/Real Chicken

If you’re looking for a high-quality, natural dog food for your furry friend, Pawstruck All Natural Air Dried Dog Food w/Real Chicken is an excellent choice.

Pros

• Upgrade to Air Dried for More Nutrients: Give it a try with our 2.5-ounce Trial Pack! We slowly oven roast our food at a low temperature so each bite retains maximum nutrition and a crunchy texture bursting with flavor—a great alternative to highly-processed kibble.
• Real Chicken is the #1 Ingredient: Single-protein, grain-free, gluten-free, and paleo-inspired recipe made with 97% chicken to satisfy your pup’s carnivore cravings and a 3% blend of flaxseed, salmon oil, vitamins, -amp; minerals which may help support healthy joints and hips.
• Your Dog Deserves The Best: Made in the USA with only all-natural ingredients from around the globe, with added vitamins and minerals – entirely free from fillers, and preservatives. Get the digestibility of raw or freeze dried dog foods with the safety and convenience of dry dog food.

Cons

• Expensive: Pawstruck All Natural Air Dried Dog Food w/Real Chicken is more expensive than other dog food options.
• Crumbles Easily: Some customers have reported that the food crumbles easily, making it difficult to serve.
• Not Suitable for All Breeds and Ages: While this dog food is designed for all breeds and ages, it may not be suitable for dogs with certain dietary restrictions or health issues.

We’ve been feeding our dog Pawstruck All Natural Air Dried Dog Food w/Real Chicken for a few weeks now, and we’re very happy with it. The air-drying process gives the food a crunchy texture that our dog loves, and we feel good knowing that we’re feeding her a high-quality, all-natural diet.

One thing to keep in mind is that this dog food is more expensive than other options on the market. However, we feel that the quality of the ingredients and the health benefits for our dog are worth the extra cost.

Another potential downside is that the food can crumble easily, which can make it difficult to serve. However, we’ve found that mixing it with a little bit of water or wet food can help alleviate this issue.

Overall, we highly recommend Pawstruck All Natural Air Dried Dog Food w/Real Chicken for pet parents who want to give their furry friends the best possible nutrition.

I and Love and You Naked Essentials Dry Dog Food, Lamb and Bison Recipe

We highly recommend the I and Love and You Naked Essentials Dry Dog Food, Lamb and Bison Recipe for pet owners who want a natural and grain-free option for their furry friends.

Pros

• The meat is the #1 ingredient, and it is packed with pasture-raised lamb and bison, which provides dogs with the protein they need to maintain lean muscle mass and boost energy.
• This kibble is rich in protein, with 30% protein content, which is 25% more than other brands like BLUE Buffalo Life Protection—Adult.
• The pre and probiotics in the recipe promote easy digestion, which helps keep your dog’s gut healthy and their bowel movements regular.

Cons

• Some dogs may not like the taste of the lamb and bison recipe.
• The kibble size may be too small for larger breeds.
• The 4lb bag may not last long for dog owners with larger breeds.

We have been using this dog food for our furry friend, and we have noticed a significant improvement in his overall health and energy levels. The meaty smell of the kibble makes it a treat for him, and he loves the taste. We appreciate that there are no fillers like rice, corn, or white potatoes, which can contribute to obesity and lethargy.

The non-GMO protein and produce in the recipe give us confidence that we are providing our dog with only the best ingredients. We also like that the product is grain-free, making it an excellent option for dogs with allergies or sensitive stomachs.

Overall, we highly recommend the I and Love and You Naked Essentials Dry Dog Food, Lamb and Bison Recipe for pet owners looking for a natural and grain-free option for their furry friends.

Buying Guide

When searching for the best natural dog food, there are a few key features to consider. We want to ensure that the food we choose meets our dog’s nutritional needs while also being made from high-quality, natural ingredients. Here are some factors to consider when choosing a natural dog food:

Ingredients

The first and most important factor to consider when selecting a natural dog food is the ingredients. We want to look for foods that use high-quality, natural ingredients, such as real meats, vegetables, and fruits. Avoid foods that contain fillers, by-products, and artificial preservatives, colors, and flavors. Reading the ingredients list is crucial to ensure that the food we choose is made from high-quality, natural ingredients.

Nutritional Value

The second factor to consider is the nutritional value of the food. We want to make sure that the food we choose meets our dog’s nutritional needs. Look for foods that are formulated to meet AAFCO (Association of American Feed Control Officials) standards for complete and balanced nutrition. AAFCO standards ensure that the food provides the right balance of protein, fat, and carbohydrates, as well as essential vitamins and minerals.

Price

The third factor to consider is the price. Natural dog foods can be more expensive than traditional dog foods, but it’s important to remember that we get what we pay for. Investing in a high-quality natural dog food can save us money in the long run by promoting our dog’s health and reducing the risk of costly vet bills. However, we don’t want to break the bank, so it’s important to find a natural dog food that fits within our budget.

Brand Reputation

The fourth factor to consider is the brand reputation. Look for natural dog food brands that have a good reputation for quality and safety. We can research brands online, read reviews, and ask for recommendations from other dog owners. Choosing a reputable brand can give us peace of mind knowing that we are feeding our dog a safe and healthy diet.

By considering these factors, we can choose a natural dog food that meets our dog’s nutritional needs while also being made from high-quality, natural ingredients.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the top-rated natural dog foods for optimal canine health?

There are several natural dog food brands that are highly recommended by pet experts due to their high-quality ingredients and balanced nutrition. Some of the top-rated natural dog food brands include Blue Buffalo, Wellness, Taste of the Wild, Merrick, and Orijen. These brands offer a variety of options for different life stages and dietary needs, such as grain-free, limited ingredient, and high-protein formulas.

Which natural dog food brands are recommended by veterinarians?

Several natural dog food brands are recommended by veterinarians due to their high-quality ingredients and balanced nutrition. Some of the top natural dog food brands recommended by veterinarians include Hill’s Science Diet, Royal Canin, Purina Pro Plan, and Eukanuba. These brands offer a variety of options for different life stages and dietary needs, such as weight management, digestive health, and joint support.

How can I identify natural dog food without fillers or artificial preservatives?

To identify natural dog food without fillers or artificial preservatives, look for brands that use high-quality, whole-food ingredients and avoid common fillers such as corn, wheat, and soy. Additionally, natural dog food should not contain artificial preservatives such as BHA, BHT, or ethoxyquin. Look for natural preservatives such as vitamin E and vitamin C instead.

What are the healthiest dry dog food options available on the market?

Some of the healthiest dry dog food options available on the market include brands that use high-quality, whole-food ingredients and avoid common fillers such as corn, wheat, and soy. Additionally, look for dry dog food that contains a high percentage of protein and healthy fats, such as those from sources like chicken, fish, and lamb. Some of the top-rated dry dog food brands include Blue Buffalo, Wellness, and Orijen.

Can you provide some homemade natural dog food recipes that are nutritionally balanced?

While homemade dog food can be a great option for some pet owners, it’s important to ensure that the recipes are nutritionally balanced. Some homemade dog food recipes that are nutritionally balanced include chicken and vegetable stew, beef and sweet potato casserole, and salmon and quinoa bowl. It’s important to consult with a veterinarian or veterinary nutritionist before feeding your dog homemade food to ensure that they are getting all of the necessary nutrients.

What criteria should I consider when choosing the best natural food for my dog?

When choosing the best natural food for your dog, consider their age, breed, and activity level. Look for natural dog food that contains high-quality, whole-food ingredients and avoids common fillers and artificial preservatives. Additionally, consider any dietary restrictions or health conditions your dog may have, and choose a natural dog food that meets their specific needs. Consult with a veterinarian or veterinary nutritionist for personalized recommendations.