Best Real Food for Dogs: A Comprehensive Guide

Feeding our furry friends is one of the most important things we do for them. It’s crucial to ensure that they receive the right nutrients and ingredients to keep them healthy and happy. Real food for dogs is an excellent option for pet owners who want to provide their furry friends with a healthy and balanced diet. Real food for dogs is made with fresh, whole ingredients, and it doesn’t contain any artificial preservatives, colors, or flavors.

When it comes to choosing the best real food for dogs, there are a few things to keep in mind. First, it’s essential to choose a product that is made with high-quality ingredients. Look for real food that contains whole proteins, such as chicken, beef, or fish. Second, choose a product that is free from fillers and artificial ingredients. Finally, make sure that the real food you choose is appropriate for your dog’s age, breed, and health needs.

We spent hours researching and testing the best real food for dogs on the market to identify the ones that provide the best nutrition for our furry friends. In this article, we’ll share our top picks for the best real food for dogs, including their benefits, ingredients, and nutritional value. Whether you’re looking for a complete meal or a supplement to your dog’s diet, we’ve got you covered.

Best Real Food for Dogs

We know how important it is to feed our furry friends the best possible diet. That’s why we’ve scoured the market to bring you the best real food options for your beloved pup. From freeze-dried raw food to dehydrated treats, our list has something for every dog’s taste and dietary needs. So, without further ado, here are our top picks for the best real food for dogs.

Taste of the Wild High Prairie Canine Grain-Free Recipe with Roasted Bison and Venison Adult Dry Dog Food

If you are looking for a real food option for your dog, then Taste of the Wild High Prairie Canine Grain-Free Recipe with Roasted Bison and Venison Adult Dry Dog Food is definitely worth considering.

Pros

• Made with real roasted meat, providing a taste sensation like no other.
• Grain-free recipe with sweet potatoes and peas provides highly digestible energy for your active dog.
• Includes species-specific K9 Strain proprietary probiotics, plus antioxidants and prebiotics to help support healthy digestion, immune system, and overall health and wellness.

Cons

• Some dogs may not like the taste of bison and venison.
• A bit expensive compared to other dog food brands.
• May not be suitable for dogs with certain dietary restrictions.

We have been using Taste of the Wild High Prairie Canine Grain-Free Recipe with Roasted Bison and Venison Adult Dry Dog Food for a few months now and our dog loves it. The real roasted meat provides a taste that our dog can’t resist. We also appreciate that it is grain-free, which makes it highly digestible for our active dog. Plus, the inclusion of species-specific K9 Strain proprietary probiotics, plus antioxidants and prebiotics, has helped support our dog’s healthy digestion, immune system, and overall health and wellness.

One thing to note is that some dogs may not like the taste of bison and venison, so it’s important to monitor your dog’s reaction to the food. Additionally, this brand is a bit expensive compared to other dog food brands, so it may not be the best option for those on a tight budget. Lastly, if your dog has certain dietary restrictions, this product may not be suitable for them.

In conclusion, Taste of the Wild High Prairie Canine Grain-Free Recipe with Roasted Bison and Venison Adult Dry Dog Food is a great real food option for dogs who love the taste of real roasted meat and need a grain-free diet. It’s a bit pricey, but the inclusion of species-specific K9 Strain proprietary probiotics, plus antioxidants and prebiotics, make it a great investment in your dog’s health and wellness.

WAG Dry Dog Food, Salmon and Brown Rice

If you’re looking for a high-quality dog food that’s both affordable and nutritious, WAG Dry Dog Food is an excellent choice.

Pros

• Real meat is the first ingredient, with sustainably raised American salmon providing an excellent source of protein.
• Contains no by-product meal, corn, wheat, soy, artificial colors, flavors, or preservatives, making it a great option for dogs with food sensitivities or allergies.
• Added calcium and phosphorus, along with guaranteed glucosamine, support bone and tooth health, while antioxidants and DHA promote immune system and brain function.

Cons

• Some customers have reported that their dogs didn’t like the taste or experienced digestive upset after switching to this food.
• The price can fluctuate, making it difficult to budget for long-term use.
• The packaging may vary from the images shown, which could be confusing for some customers.

We recently tried WAG Dry Dog Food with our own dogs and were impressed with the quality of the ingredients and the nutritional benefits it provides. Our dogs loved the taste and had no issues with digestion or upset stomachs, even during the transition period.

One thing we appreciated about this food is that it’s vet-formulated, with input from veterinarians and pet nutritionists to ensure that it meets the highest standards for quality and nutrition. We also liked that it’s made in a family-owned facility in California, so we felt good about supporting a small business while providing our dogs with a healthy and delicious meal.

Overall, we highly recommend WAG Dry Dog Food for pet owners who want a high-quality dog food that’s both affordable and nutritious. With its real meat first ingredient and absence of fillers and artificial additives, it’s a great choice for dogs with food sensitivities or allergies, and the added vitamins and minerals provide excellent support for overall health and wellness.

Blue Buffalo Dog Food, Life Protection Formula, Natural Beef -amp; Brown Rice Flavor

If you’re looking for a high-quality and natural dry dog food, then Blue Buffalo Dog Food, Life Protection Formula, Natural Beef -amp; Brown Rice Flavor is an excellent choice for your furry friend.

Pros

• Real beef is the first ingredient, providing high-quality protein for strong muscles.
• Contains no poultry by-products, corn, wheat, or soy.
• Includes exclusive LifeSource Bits to support immune system health.

Cons

• Some dogs may not like the taste or texture of the food.
• More expensive than other dog food brands.
• The large 30-pound bag may be too heavy for some pet owners to handle.

We’ve been using Blue Buffalo Dog Food, Life Protection Formula, Natural Beef -amp; Brown Rice Flavor for our dog for several months now, and we’re very satisfied with the results. Our dog loves the taste of the food and always finishes his bowl. We’ve noticed that his coat is shinier and his energy levels are higher since we switched to this brand.

The real beef as the first ingredient provides high-quality protein for our dog’s muscles, and we appreciate that the food contains no poultry by-products, corn, wheat, or soy. The exclusive LifeSource Bits are a great addition to the formula, as they support our dog’s immune system health.

However, we did notice that some dogs may not like the taste or texture of the food, so it may not be suitable for all pets. Additionally, the price of the food is higher than other dog food brands, which may be a consideration for some pet owners. Lastly, the large 30-pound bag may be too heavy for some pet owners to handle.

Overall, we would recommend Blue Buffalo Dog Food, Life Protection Formula, Natural Beef -amp; Brown Rice Flavor to any pet owner looking for a high-quality and natural dry dog food for their furry friend.

IAMS Small -amp; Toy Breed Adult Dry Dog Food with Real Chicken

If you’re looking for a high-quality dog food for your small breed adult dog, IAMS Small -amp; Toy Breed Adult Dry Dog Food with Real Chicken is a great option to consider.

Pros

• The first ingredient is real, farm-raised chicken, which provides high-quality protein to support your dog’s muscle health.
• This dog food is specially formulated to meet the specific wellness and nutritional needs of adult small breed dogs.
• Antioxidants in this dog food support your small breed dog’s immune system.

Cons

• Some dogs may not like the taste of this dog food.
• This dog food may be a bit expensive compared to other dog foods on the market.
• This dog food may not be suitable for dogs with certain dietary restrictions.

We recently tried this dog food with our small breed dog and were impressed with the results. Our dog loved the taste of the real chicken and we noticed an improvement in her coat health after just a few weeks of feeding her this food. The kibble size is perfect for small dogs and we appreciate that this food is made with high-quality ingredients.

Overall, we highly recommend IAMS Small -amp; Toy Breed Adult Dry Dog Food with Real Chicken for small breed dog owners who want to provide their dogs with a high-quality, nutritious diet.

IAMS Small -amp; Toy Breed Adult Dry Dog Food

We highly recommend IAMS Small -amp; Toy Breed Adult Dry Dog Food for small breed dog owners who want to provide their pets with proper nutrition.

Pros

• Real, farm-raised chicken is the first ingredient
• Promotes skin and coat health with omega-6 fatty acids
• Specially formulated to meet the specific wellness and nutritional needs of adult small breed dogs

Cons

• Contains some grains, which may not be suitable for dogs with grain allergies
• Some customers have reported that their dogs did not like the taste
• May not be suitable for dogs with sensitive stomachs

We recently tried IAMS Small -amp; Toy Breed Adult Dry Dog Food with Real Chicken for our small breed dog and were impressed with the results. Our dog’s coat became noticeably shinier and softer after just a few weeks of eating this food. We also appreciated that real chicken was the first ingredient and that it contained omega-6 fatty acids to promote skin and coat health.

However, we did notice that the food contained some grains, which may not be suitable for dogs with grain allergies. Additionally, some customers have reported that their dogs did not like the taste of the food. We also found that it may not be suitable for dogs with sensitive stomachs.

Overall, we believe that IAMS Small -amp; Toy Breed Adult Dry Dog Food is a great option for small breed dog owners who want to provide their pets with proper nutrition.

IAMS Minichunks Adult Dry Dog Food Lamb -amp; Rice Recipe Dog Kibble, 30 lb. Bag

If you’re looking for a dry dog food that promotes healthy digestion, skin and coat health, and strong muscles, then IAMS Minichunks Adult Dry Dog Food Lamb -amp; Rice Recipe Dog Kibble might be the right choice for your furry friend.

Pros

• The first ingredient is real, premium lamb.
• It promotes healthy digestion with a tailored blend of wholesome fibers and prebiotics.
• It builds strong muscles with quality-sourced protein.

Cons

• It contains rice, which some dogs may be allergic to.
• Some customers have reported that their dogs didn’t like the taste.
• The kibble size might not be suitable for very small dogs.

We’ve been feeding our dog IAMS Minichunks Adult Dry Dog Food Lamb -amp; Rice Recipe Dog Kibble for a few months now, and we’ve noticed that his coat looks shinier and healthier. He also seems to have more energy and is more eager to play.

The kibble size is perfect for our medium-sized dog, and he seems to enjoy the taste. We also like that the first ingredient is real lamb, which gives us peace of mind knowing that our dog is getting quality protein.

However, we’ve noticed that our dog sometimes gets gassy after eating this dog food, which might be due to the prebiotics. Additionally, the rice might not be suitable for dogs with rice allergies.

Overall, we think that IAMS Minichunks Adult Dry Dog Food Lamb -amp; Rice Recipe Dog Kibble is a good choice for pet owners who want to promote their dog’s health and wellbeing with a quality dry dog food.

Royal Canin Size Health Nutrition Large Puppy Thin Slices in Gravy Wet Dog Food

If you’re looking for a high-quality puppy food that is specifically formulated for large breeds, then the Royal Canin Large Puppy Wet Dog Food is a great option. It is made with tasty thin slices in gravy, which makes it easy for your puppy to eat. Plus, it is enriched with DHA, which is an omega-3 fatty acid that helps support your puppy’s brain development.

Pros

• Formulated for large breed puppies
• Highly digestible proteins promote digestive health
• Clinically proven antioxidants support immune system development

Cons

• More expensive than some other puppy food brands
• Some puppies may not like the taste or texture
• Some customers have reported issues with the packaging

We’ve had great success with the Royal Canin Large Puppy Wet Dog Food with our own large breed puppy. The soft texture makes it easy for her to eat, and we love that it is enriched with DHA to support her brain development. We’ve also noticed that her stool quality has improved since we switched to this food.

One of the main benefits of this puppy food is that it is specifically formulated for large breed puppies. This means that it provides the right balance of nutrients for their growth and development. The highly digestible proteins also promote digestive health, which is important for puppies with sensitive stomachs.

The Royal Canin Large Puppy Wet Dog Food also contains clinically proven antioxidants, including vitamins E and C, which help support the healthy development of your puppy’s immune system. This is especially important during their first few months of life when they are more susceptible to illnesses.

While this puppy food is more expensive than some other brands, we believe that the quality and benefits make it worth the investment. However, some puppies may not like the taste or texture of the food, so it may take some trial and error to find the right food for your pup.

Overall, we highly recommend the Royal Canin Large Puppy Wet Dog Food for anyone looking for a high-quality puppy food that is specifically formulated for large breeds.

IAMS Proactive Health Large Breed Adult Dry Dog Food Lamb -amp; Rice Recipe, 30 lb. Bag

If you’re looking for a complete and balanced dry dog food for your furry friend, the IAMS Proactive Health Large Breed Adult Dry Dog Food Lamb -amp; Rice Recipe is definitely worth considering.

Pros

• The first ingredient in this recipe is real lamb, providing your dog with the flavor it loves.
• Contains natural sources of glucosamine and chondroitin for strong bones and joints.
• Enriched with essential nutrients and antioxidants for whole body health.

Cons

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

We recently switched to this dog food for our large breed dog, and we’ve noticed a significant improvement in his overall health and energy levels. The real lamb provides a delicious taste that our dog loves, and we appreciate that this recipe is 100% complete and balanced with 0% fillers.

We’ve also noticed that our dog’s joints seem to be stronger since switching to this recipe, which we attribute to the natural sources of glucosamine and chondroitin. Additionally, the essential nutrients and antioxidants in this recipe have helped support our dog’s immune health.

Overall, we highly recommend the IAMS Proactive Health Large Breed Adult Dry Dog Food Lamb -amp; Rice Recipe for anyone looking for a high-quality dry dog food for their furry friend.

Rachael Ray Nutrish Premium Natural Dry Dog Food

We highly recommend Rachael Ray Nutrish Premium Natural Dry Dog Food for pet owners who want to give their furry friend a healthy and delicious meal.

Pros

• The number one ingredient in this dry dog food is real beef, which helps support healthy organs and maintain lean muscle mass.
• Fiber sources including peas and brown rice help support healthy digestion.
• Includes Nutrish’s Whole Health Blend which helps support a healthy mind, body, and energy level.

Cons

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

We have been using Rachael Ray Nutrish Premium Natural Dry Dog Food for our furry friend for several months and have noticed a significant improvement in his overall health and energy levels. The real beef, pea, and brown rice recipe is a hit with our dog and we appreciate that it contains no fillers, artificial flavors, or preservatives.

The Whole Health Blend, which includes omega-3 fatty acids from fish oil, antioxidants, and whole grains, has helped our dog maintain a healthy weight and stay active. We also love that a portion of the proceeds from the sale of every Nutrish dog food product is donated to The Rachael Ray Foundation, which helps animals in need.

Overall, we highly recommend Rachael Ray Nutrish Premium Natural Dry Dog Food for pet owners who want to give their furry friend a nutritious and tasty meal.

Purina ONE Chicken and Rice Formula Dry Dog Food

We highly recommend the Purina ONE Chicken and Rice Formula Dry Dog Food for its natural ingredients and balanced nutrition.

Pros

• Real chicken as the first ingredient provides protein for strong muscles and a healthy heart.
• High-quality carbohydrate sources for healthy energy.
• Added vitamins, minerals, and nutrients, including prebiotic fiber for gut health and immune support.

Cons

• Can be gritty and leave food dust.
• Some bags may contain misfit food.

Purina ONE Chicken and Rice Formula Dry Dog Food is made with a SmartBlend of purposeful ingredients, including prebiotic fiber for dogs, to help your pal be his best self. The added vitamins, minerals, and nutrients promote gut health, immune support, and joint health for dogs. The real chicken as the first ingredient provides protein for strong muscles, including a healthy heart, and has high-quality carbohydrate sources for healthy energy. The high protein dry dog food is easily digestible and made with omega-6 fatty acids, vitamins, and minerals, plus four antioxidant sources to help maintain a strong immune system. With added calcium, the crunchy dog food kibble helps support strong teeth, too.

We have noticed that some bags may contain misfit food, which looks like the end of a cereal box with all of the dusting. However, this is not a common occurrence. Additionally, the food can be gritty and leave food dust, but this does not affect the quality of the food.

Overall, Purina ONE Chicken and Rice Formula Dry Dog Food provides 100 percent complete and balanced nutrition for adult dogs and is made in Purina-owned, U.S. facilities. We highly recommend this dog food for its natural ingredients and balanced nutrition.

Buying Guide

When it comes to choosing the best real food for your dog, there are a few important factors to consider. Here are some features to look for when selecting the right food for your furry friend:

Ingredient Quality

The quality of ingredients in your dog’s food is crucial. Look for foods that use high-quality, whole-food ingredients, such as real meat, vegetables, and fruits. Avoid foods that contain fillers, by-products, and artificial preservatives, colors, and flavors. Reading the ingredient list on the label can help you determine the quality of the product.

Nutritional Value

The nutritional value of your dog’s food is another important factor to consider. Look for foods that provide a balanced and complete diet for your dog’s life stage and breed size. Make sure the food contains adequate amounts of protein, fat, carbohydrates, vitamins, and minerals. Consult with your veterinarian to determine the appropriate nutritional needs for your dog.

Manufacturing Standards

The manufacturing standards of the food you choose are also important. Look for foods that are made in facilities that follow strict safety and quality standards. Consider choosing foods that are manufactured in the United States or Canada, as these countries have higher safety standards for pet food.

Packaging and Storage

The packaging and storage of your dog’s food can also affect its quality. Look for foods that are packaged in airtight bags or cans to prevent spoilage and contamination. Store your dog’s food in a cool, dry place to maintain its freshness and nutritional value.

By considering these factors, you can choose the best real food for your dog that meets their nutritional needs and keeps them healthy and happy.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the healthiest human foods that are safe for dogs?

There are several human foods that are safe for dogs and can provide them with essential nutrients. Some of the healthiest human foods for dogs include cooked chicken, salmon, sweet potatoes, green beans, carrots, and blueberries. However, it is important to note that not all human foods are safe for dogs, and some can be toxic. Always consult with your veterinarian before introducing new foods to your dog’s diet.

How does Ollie dog food compare to traditional kibble?

Ollie dog food is a fresh, human-grade dog food that is made with high-quality ingredients and is free from fillers and artificial preservatives. Unlike traditional kibble, Ollie dog food is cooked in small batches and is delivered fresh to your door. This means that your dog is getting a fresh, nutrient-dense meal every time. However, Ollie dog food can be more expensive than traditional kibble, so it may not be the best option for all pet owners.

What are the benefits of feeding Royal Canin Dog Food to dogs?

Royal Canin dog food is a premium dog food brand that is designed to meet the specific nutritional needs of different dog breeds and life stages. The food is formulated with high-quality ingredients and is free from artificial preservatives and fillers. Feeding your dog Royal Canin dog food can help improve their overall health and well-being, and can also help prevent certain health issues that are common in specific dog breeds.

Can dogs have a balanced diet with ‘Just Food for Dogs’ products?

‘Just Food for Dogs’ is a fresh, human-grade dog food brand that is made with high-quality ingredients. The food is cooked in small batches and is free from fillers, preservatives, and artificial colors and flavors. Feeding your dog ‘Just Food for Dogs’ products can help ensure that they are getting a balanced and nutrient-dense diet. However, it is important to consult with your veterinarian before making any changes to your dog’s diet.

Which dry dog foods are considered premium for large breed dogs?

Some of the best dry dog foods for large breed dogs include Wellness Complete Health Large Breed Adult, Blue Buffalo Life Protection Large Breed Adult, and Nutro Wholesome Essentials Large Breed Adult. These foods are formulated with high-quality ingredients and are free from fillers, artificial preservatives, and artificial colors and flavors.

Based on veterinary advice, what constitutes an optimal dog diet?

An optimal dog diet should be balanced and nutrient-dense, and should consist of high-quality protein, healthy fats, and complex carbohydrates. The diet should also be tailored to your dog’s specific nutritional needs, based on factors such as their age, breed, and activity level. It is important to consult with your veterinarian to determine the best diet for your dog.