Best Natural Foods for Dogs: A Guide to Healthy Canine Nutrition

Dogs are more than just pets; they are an integral part of our families. As such, we want to ensure that they are always healthy and happy. One way to achieve this is by feeding them the best natural foods available.

Natural dog foods are those that contain whole food ingredients, without any artificial additives or preservatives. They are free from fillers, by-products, and other low-quality ingredients that can harm your pet’s health. These foods are usually made from high-quality meats, vegetables, and fruits, which provide essential nutrients that your dog needs to thrive.

When choosing the best natural foods for your dog, it is crucial to pay attention to the ingredients list. Look for foods that contain high-quality proteins, such as chicken, beef, or fish. Vegetables and fruits, such as sweet potatoes, carrots, and blueberries, can also provide essential vitamins and minerals. Avoid foods that contain fillers, such as corn, wheat, and soy, as these can cause digestive problems and allergies in some dogs.

We spent countless hours researching and testing ten natural dog foods to identify the ones that provide the best nutrition for your furry friend. In the following sections, we will share our findings and help you choose the best natural food for your dog’s needs.

Best Natural Foods for Dogs

As dog owners, we know that our furry friends deserve the best nutrition possible to keep them healthy and happy. That’s why we’ve put together a list of the best natural foods for dogs. These products are made with high-quality, whole-food ingredients that provide optimal nutrition for your pup. From dry kibble to wet food and everything in between, we’ve got you covered. So, without further ado, here are our top picks for the best natural foods for dogs.

Natural Balance Limited Ingredient Small Breed Adult Grain-Free Dry Dog Food, Salmon -amp; Sweet Potato Recipe

We highly recommend purchasing Natural Balance Limited Ingredient Small Breed Adult Grain-Free Dry Dog Food, Salmon -amp; Sweet Potato Recipe because it is a premium dry dog food that is tailored to meet the unique nutritional needs of small breed dogs.

Pros

• Salmon is the first animal protein source providing essential protein and amino acids to help maintain strong muscles.
• Specially formulated for small dogs, with the same balanced nutritional philosophy as other Natural Balance products.
• Contains no added peas, pea protein, lentils, legumes, corn, wheat, or soy, making it an excellent option for dogs with sensitive stomachs or allergies.

Cons

• Some dogs may not enjoy the taste of the salmon and sweet potato formula.
• The price point may be higher than other dog food brands.
• The packaging may not be as visually appealing as other dog food bags.

Natural Balance Limited Ingredient Small Breed Adult Grain-Free Dry Dog Food, Salmon -amp; Sweet Potato Recipe is an excellent option for pet owners who want to feed their dogs a simpler premium dry dog food diet with fewer ingredients. The formula is packed with flavor and rich in nutrients, making it an excellent choice for dogs of all ages and sizes.

The salmon and sweet potato formula is specially formulated for small dogs, with a smaller kibble size that accommodates smaller jaw sizes for easier eating. The formula is made with a single animal protein source and no added grain, soy, gluten, or artificial colors or flavors, making it an excellent choice for dogs with sensitive stomachs, irritable skin, or allergies.

Natural Balance’s ‘Feed with Confidence’ program tests every batch of food from start to finish, ensuring safety with every bite. Pet owners can validate the bag on their site or call their Customer Care Team of Registered Veterinary Technicians for added peace of mind.

Overall, we highly recommend Natural Balance Limited Ingredient Small Breed Adult Grain-Free Dry Dog Food, Salmon -amp; Sweet Potato Recipe for pet owners who want to feed their dogs a high-quality, nutritious, and delicious dry dog food.

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

If you’re looking for a natural dog food that’s both delicious and healthy, then the Natural Balance Limited Ingredient Adult Dry Dog Food with Healthy Grains, Lamb -amp; Brown Rice Recipe, 4 Pound (Pack of 1) Lamb -amp; Brown Rice 4 Pound (Pack of 1) is definitely worth considering.

Pros

• The first ingredient is real lamb, providing essential protein and amino acids to help maintain strong muscles.
• Brown rice is included as a healthy and rich source of fiber for digestive health.
• Made with a simplified list of premium ingredients to help support a healthy coat, skin -amp; digestive system.

Cons

• Some dogs may not like the taste.
• May not be suitable for dogs with certain dietary restrictions.
• More expensive than some other dog foods on the market.

We’ve been using this product for a while now and we’re really happy with the results. The first thing we noticed was how much our dog loved the taste. It’s clear that the real lamb is a high-quality ingredient, and it provides our dog with the essential protein and amino acids he needs to maintain strong muscles.

We also appreciate the fact that this dog food contains brown rice, which is a healthy and rich source of fiber for digestive health. It’s clear that Natural Balance has carefully chosen a simplified list of premium ingredients to help support a healthy coat, skin -amp; digestive system.

Of course, like any product, there are some downsides to consider. Some dogs may not like the taste of this dog food, so it’s worth trying a small bag before committing to a larger purchase. Additionally, if your dog has certain dietary restrictions, this product may not be suitable for them.

Finally, it’s worth noting that this dog food is more expensive than some other options on the market. However, we believe that the high-quality ingredients and the peace of mind that comes with knowing that our dog is eating a healthy and nutritious diet make it worth the extra cost.

Overall, we highly recommend the Natural Balance Limited Ingredient Adult Dry Dog Food with Healthy Grains, Lamb -amp; Brown Rice Recipe, 4 Pound (Pack of 1) Lamb -amp; Brown Rice 4 Pound (Pack of 1) to any dog owner who wants to provide their furry friend with a natural and healthy diet.

Blue Buffalo Freedom Grain Free Natural Adult Dry Dog Food, Beef 24-lb Beef 24 Pound (Pack of 1)

If you’re looking for a high-quality grain-free dog food, Blue Buffalo Freedom Grain Free Natural Adult Dry Dog Food is a great option.

Pros

• Made with real beef as the first ingredient
• Grain-free formula
• Contains antioxidant-rich LifeSource Bits

Cons

• Expensive compared to some other dog foods
• Some dogs may not like the taste
• Contains pea protein, which may cause digestive issues in some dogs

We recently tried Blue Buffalo Freedom Grain Free Natural Adult Dry Dog Food with our dog and were impressed with the quality of the ingredients. The fact that it’s grain-free was a big selling point for us, as we wanted to make sure our dog was getting a diet that was as close to his natural diet as possible.

One thing we really liked about this dog food is that it starts with real beef as the first ingredient. We could tell that the beef was high-quality and our dog seemed to really enjoy it. We also appreciated that the formula contains antioxidant-rich LifeSource Bits, which are a blend of vitamins and minerals that are carefully selected to support immune system health and a healthy oxidative balance.

The only downside to this dog food is that it’s quite expensive compared to some other dog foods on the market. Additionally, some dogs may not like the taste, so it’s important to introduce it slowly and see how your dog reacts. Finally, we noticed that the formula contains pea protein, which can cause digestive issues in some dogs.

Overall, we think Blue Buffalo Freedom Grain Free Natural Adult Dry Dog Food is a great choice for pet parents who want to feed their dogs a high-quality, grain-free diet. While it’s more expensive than some other dog foods, we think it’s worth it for the quality of the ingredients.

Natural Balance Limited Ingredient Adult Grain-Free Dry Dog Food, Reserve Sweet Potato -amp; Venison Recipe, 12 Pound (Pack of 1) Sweet Potato -amp; Venison 12 Pound (Pack of 1)

If you are looking for a natural and grain-free dog food that is gentle on your pet’s stomach, then Natural Balance Limited Ingredient Adult Grain-Free Dry Dog Food is a great option for you. This dog food is formulated with premium ingredients to support your furry friend’s healthy coat, skin, and digestive system.

Pros

• The food contains venison, which is a single animal protein source and 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 food is complete and balanced with essential nutrients to help maintain your dog’s healthy immune system.

Cons

• Some dogs may not like the taste of venison.
• The food is relatively expensive compared to other dog foods in the market.
• The kibble size may be too large for smaller breeds.

We have been using Natural Balance Limited Ingredient Adult Grain-Free Dry Dog Food for our dog with sensitive stomachs, and it has been a lifesaver. The food is gentle on their stomachs, and they love the taste. We have noticed that their coats are shinier and healthier since we started feeding them this food.

The food is formulated with nutritious ingredients such as pea protein, fish oil, and sweet potatoes. It is complete and balanced with essential nutrients to help maintain your dog’s healthy immune system. The food is suitable for any type of dog, not just dogs with sensitive stomachs, irritable skin, or allergies.

One of the best things about this food is that it is made with a single animal protein source and does not contain any added grain, soy, gluten, or artificial colors or flavors. This makes it an excellent option for dogs with food sensitivities.

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.

Overall, we highly recommend Natural Balance Limited Ingredient Adult Grain-Free Dry Dog Food for pet owners looking for a natural and grain-free dog food that is gentle on their pet’s stomach. It is formulated with premium ingredients to support your furry friend’s healthy coat, skin, and digestive system.

Open Farm Pasture-Raised Lamb Grain-Free Dry Dog Food

If you’re looking for a high-quality dog food that is made with natural ingredients, Open Farm’s Pasture-Raised Lamb Dry Dog Food is an excellent choice. Our experience with this product has been positive overall, and we would recommend it to dog owners who want to provide their pets with a nutritious and delicious meal.

Pros

• The recipe is made with prime cuts of real meat that is pasture-raised without additives and growth hormones.
• The formula is loaded with meaty animal protein, whole probiotic fiber, and essential vitamins that come together in a high-nutrition mix your dog will love.
• The ability to trace the origin of every ingredient using the lot number on the bag is a great feature for owners who are concerned about transparency in sourcing practices.

Cons

• The product is relatively expensive compared to other dog foods on the market.
• Some dogs may not enjoy the flavor of the food.
• The kibble size may not be suitable for dogs with smaller mouths.

We were impressed with the quality of the ingredients in this dog food. The pasture-raised lamb recipe is made with real meat as the first ingredient, and the formula is free from grains, corn, wheat, and soy. Instead, the recipe includes smart superfoods like non-GMO pumpkin, carrot, and coconut oil for complete diet balance.

Our dog enjoyed the taste of the food, and we noticed an improvement in his coat and overall health after switching to this product. The ability to trace the origin of every ingredient using the lot number on the bag is a great feature that provides peace of mind for owners who are concerned about where their pet’s food comes from.

While the product is relatively expensive compared to other dog foods on the market, we believe that the high-quality ingredients and transparent sourcing practices make it worth the investment. Overall, we would recommend Open Farm’s Pasture-Raised Lamb Dry Dog Food to any dog owner who wants to provide their pet with a nutritious and delicious meal.

Natural Balance Limited Ingredient Small-Breed Adult Grain-Free Dry Dog Food, Reserve Duck -amp; Potato Recipe, 12 Pound (Pack of 1) Duck -amp; Potato 12 Pound (Pack of 1)

If you’re looking for a high-quality dog food that’s made with simple, natural ingredients, then the Natural Balance Limited Ingredient Small-Breed Adult Grain-Free Dry Dog Food is an excellent option. Our experience with this product has been nothing but positive, and we highly recommend it to anyone who wants to give their furry friend the best.

Pros

• The duck and potato formula is made with high-quality, natural ingredients that are easy to digest and provide essential nutrients for your dog’s health.
• The kibble is designed for smaller jaws, making it easy for small dogs to eat and enjoy.
• The crunchy texture of the kibble helps promote clean teeth and healthy gums.

Cons

• The price point might be a little high for some pet owners.
• The limited ingredient formula might not be suitable for dogs with certain dietary restrictions.
• The small size of the bag might not be enough for larger dogs or households with multiple dogs.

We love that this dog food is made with limited ingredients, which makes it a great option for dogs with sensitive stomachs or food allergies. The duck and potato formula is an excellent source of protein and fiber, and our dog loves the taste. We also appreciate that Natural Balance is committed to transparency and safety, and tests every batch of food to ensure quality and nutrition.

Overall, we highly recommend the Natural Balance Limited Ingredient Small-Breed Adult Grain-Free Dry Dog Food to any pet owner who wants to give their dog the best. With high-quality ingredients, tailored nutrition, and a commitment to safety and transparency, this dog food is a great investment in your dog’s health and happiness.

Nutro So Simple Meal Complement Wet Dog Food Chicken and Chicken -amp; Duck Recipes in Bone Broth Variety Pack

If you’re looking for a natural wet dog food that’s made with real, recognizable ingredients, Nutro So Simple Meal Complement Wet Dog Food is a great option. With only 7 natural ingredients, this dog food is made without grains, chicken by-product meal, corn, wheat, soy, artificial flavors, colors, or preservatives. It’s a perfect mix-in, topper, or snack for your furry friend.

Pros

• Made with only 7 natural ingredients, including real chicken and duck as the first ingredients.
• Mix this dog food in with your dog’s favorite Nutro Dry Dog Food for added flavor.
• Crafted with real, recognizable ingredients and without grains, chicken by-product meal, corn, wheat, soy, and no artificial flavors, colors, or preservatives.

Cons

• This option is a little pricier than other wet dog foods.
• The product may clump together in the packaging, but it’s still easy to use.
• Some dogs may not like the taste of the bone broth.

We recently tried Nutro So Simple Meal Complement Wet Dog Food and were impressed with the quality of the ingredients. Our dog loved the added flavor and we felt good about feeding him a natural product. We found that the packaging was easy to use, but the product did clump together a little bit. Overall, we would recommend this product to anyone looking for a natural wet dog food option.

The real chicken and duck in this dog food make it a great source of protein for your furry friend. We loved that it’s made without any artificial ingredients, grains, or chicken by-product meal. Mixing it in with your dog’s dry food is a great way to give them added flavor and nutrition. While it may be a little pricier than other wet dog foods, we felt that the quality of the ingredients made it worth it.

One thing to note is that some dogs may not like the taste of the bone broth. However, we found that our dog loved it and we felt good about giving him a product that was made with real, recognizable ingredients. Overall, we would recommend Nutro So Simple Meal Complement Wet Dog Food to anyone looking for a natural wet dog food option.

Natural Balance Vegetarian Dry Dog Formula

This product is a great choice for dog owners who want to give their pets a complete and balanced alternative to a meat-based diet.

Pros

• The vegetarian, vegan formula contains the same essential nutrients as meat-based dog food.
• The simplified list of premium ingredients helps support a healthy coat, skin, and digestive system.
• The recipe is complete and balanced with essential nutrients to help maintain your dog’s healthy immune system.

Cons

• Some dogs may not like the taste of the vegetarian formula.
• The product is more expensive than traditional meat-based dog food.
• Some dogs may require additional supplements to meet their nutritional needs.

We recently tried Natural Balance Vegetarian Dry Dog Formula for our dog, who has a sensitive stomach. We were pleasantly surprised by the quality of the food and the positive effect it had on our dog’s health. The formula contains barley and peas, which provide dogs with quality nutrition while maintaining a meat-free home.

One of the things we appreciated about this product is that it is made with no animal or dairy products. This is important for dogs who have allergies or sensitivities to these ingredients. The recipe is also complete and balanced with essential nutrients to help maintain your dog’s healthy immune system.

However, we did notice that some dogs may not like the taste of the vegetarian formula. Our dog had no problem with it, but we have heard of other dogs who refused to eat it. Additionally, the product is more expensive than traditional meat-based dog food, which may be a consideration for some pet owners.

Overall, we would recommend Natural Balance Vegetarian Dry Dog Formula to anyone looking for a high-quality, nutritious alternative to traditional meat-based dog food. It is a bit more expensive, but the benefits to your dog’s health and well-being are worth it.

Natural Balance Vegetarian Dry Dog Formula

If you’re looking for a complete and balanced alternative to a meat-based diet for your dog, Natural Balance Vegetarian Dry Dog Formula might be a good choice.

Pros

• This vegetarian and vegan recipe contains no animal or dairy products, making it a great option for dogs with sensitive stomachs or allergies.
• The simplified list of premium ingredients, including plant-based protein, helps support a healthy coat, skin, and digestive system.
• The formula offers the same essential nutrients found in diets with meat as the primary protein source, so you don’t have to worry about your dog missing out on important nutrients.

Cons

• Some dogs might not like the taste of this food, especially if they’re used to meat-based diets.
• The price point might be a bit higher than some other dog food options.
• The kibble size might not be suitable for smaller dogs.

We’ve been using Natural Balance Vegetarian Dry Dog Formula for a few months now, and we’re happy with the results. Our dog has a sensitive stomach, and this formula has helped reduce her stomach issues. We also like that it’s a vegetarian and vegan option, so we don’t have to worry about any animal products in her food. The simplified list of ingredients is also a plus, as we know exactly what she’s eating.

One thing to note is that some dogs might not enjoy the taste of this food, especially if they’re used to meat-based diets. However, we didn’t have any issues with our dog eating it. The price point is a bit higher than some other dog food options, but we think it’s worth it for the quality of the ingredients. The kibble size might not be suitable for smaller dogs, so keep that in mind if you have a toy breed.

Overall, we would recommend Natural Balance Vegetarian Dry Dog Formula for anyone looking for a vegetarian or vegan option for their dog. It’s a complete and balanced alternative to a meat-based diet, and it’s made with quality ingredients that support a healthy coat, skin, and digestive system.

Nature’s Recipe Dry Dog Food, Grain Free Salmon, Sweet Potato -amp; Pumpkin Recipe, 24 lb. Bag Dry Food Salmon, Sweet Potato -amp; Pumpkin 24 Pound (Pack of 1)

If you’re looking for a natural dog food that is both delicious and nutritious, Nature’s Recipe Grain Free Salmon, Sweet Potato -amp; Pumpkin Recipe is worth considering.

Pros

• Real salmon is the number one ingredient.
• Made with nutrient-dense carbohydrate sources like sweet potato and pumpkin instead of added corn or wheat.
• Contains added vitamins, minerals, and nutrients for maintenance of adult dogs.

Cons

• Some users have reported that the food has a different smell and color than expected.
• A few customers have mentioned that the food is a bit pricey.
• Some dogs may not like the taste or texture of the food.

We recently tried Nature’s Recipe Grain Free Salmon, Sweet Potato -amp; Pumpkin Recipe for our dog, and we were impressed with the quality of the ingredients. The real salmon is a great source of protein, and the sweet potato and pumpkin provide fiber to support healthy digestion. We also appreciated that the food is grain-free and made without any added corn or wheat.

Our dog seemed to enjoy the taste of the food, and we noticed that his coat looked shinier and healthier after a few weeks of eating it. We also liked that the food contains added vitamins, minerals, and nutrients to help support our dog’s overall health and well-being.

One thing to note is that some customers have reported that the food has a different smell and color than expected. However, we did not notice any issues with the batch we received. Additionally, some customers have mentioned that the food is a bit pricey compared to other options on the market. While it may be a bit more expensive, we feel that the quality of the ingredients justifies the cost.

Overall, we would recommend Nature’s Recipe Grain Free Salmon, Sweet Potato -amp; Pumpkin Recipe to anyone looking for a high-quality natural dog food.

Buying Guide

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

Ingredients

The first thing to look at when choosing a natural dog food is the ingredient list. Make sure the food contains high-quality, whole-food ingredients and avoid foods that contain fillers, artificial preservatives, and by-products. Look for foods that have real meat, vegetables, and fruits listed as the top ingredients.

Nutritional Value

The nutritional value of the food is also important. Check the label to ensure that the food provides a balanced diet for your dog. Make sure the food contains the right amount of protein, fat, and carbohydrates for your dog’s age, breed, and activity level.

Quality

The quality of the food is another important factor to consider. Look for natural dog foods that are made by reputable companies and have undergone rigorous testing. You can also check online reviews and ratings to see what other dog owners have to say about the food.

Price

Natural dog foods can be more expensive than regular dog food, so it’s important to consider the price. However, keep in mind that a higher price tag doesn’t always mean better quality. Look for natural dog foods that fit your budget and provide the nutritional value your dog needs.

Packaging

The packaging of the food is also important. Look for natural dog foods that are packaged in a way that keeps the food fresh and free from contaminants. Choose foods that are packaged in airtight bags or cans to ensure freshness.

By considering these factors, you can choose the best natural food for your dog that provides the nutrition and quality they need to live a healthy and happy life.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are some healthy human foods that are safe for dogs?

We understand that as dog owners, you may be tempted to share your food with your furry friend. However, not all human foods are safe for dogs. Some healthy human foods that are safe for dogs include cooked chicken, carrots, green beans, and plain yogurt. It’s important to note that these foods should be given in moderation and without any added spices or seasonings.

What homemade recipes are beneficial for a dog’s diet?

Homemade dog food can be a great option for those who want to provide their dogs with a healthy and natural diet. Some beneficial homemade recipes for dogs include boiled chicken and brown rice, ground turkey and sweet potato, and salmon and quinoa. It’s important to consult with your veterinarian before making any significant changes to your dog’s diet.

Which vegetables can be included in a dog’s daily meals?

Vegetables can be a great addition to a dog’s daily meals as they provide essential vitamins and minerals. Some vegetables that can be included in a dog’s daily meals include broccoli, spinach, sweet potato, and green beans. It’s important to avoid feeding dogs onions, garlic, and avocado as they can be toxic.

What are the healthiest options to feed your dog every day?

The healthiest options to feed your dog every day include high-quality commercial dog food that is made with natural ingredients and free from fillers and artificial preservatives. Additionally, adding fresh fruits and vegetables to your dog’s diet can provide them with essential nutrients.

How can I supplement my dog’s diet with natural foods?

You can supplement your dog’s diet with natural foods by adding fresh fruits and vegetables to their meals. Additionally, you can give them natural treats such as carrots or blueberries. It’s important to consult with your veterinarian before making any significant changes to your dog’s diet.

What are the best natural additions to commercial dog food?

The best natural additions to commercial dog food include fresh fruits and vegetables such as blueberries, sweet potatoes, and green beans. Additionally, adding a small amount of plain yogurt or cooked chicken can provide additional nutrients. It’s important to avoid adding any spices or seasonings to commercial dog food.