Best Whole Foods for Dogs: Nutritious Options for Your Furry Friend

Dogs are not just pets, they are family members, and like any family member, we want to make sure they are healthy and happy. One of the best ways to ensure our furry friends stay healthy is by feeding them a balanced diet. While commercial dog food is convenient, it’s not always the best option. Many commercial dog foods contain fillers, preservatives, and artificial flavors that can harm our dogs’ health in the long run. This is where whole foods for dogs come in.

Whole foods are foods that are minimally processed and contain no artificial additives. They are packed with essential nutrients that can help keep our dogs healthy and happy. Whole foods for dogs can include fresh fruits, vegetables, and lean meats. By feeding our dogs whole foods, we can help reduce the risk of obesity, diabetes, and other health issues.

When selecting the best whole foods for your dog, it’s essential to pay attention to the quality of the ingredients. Look for whole foods that are organic, non-GMO, and free from preservatives. It’s also important to consider your dog’s specific dietary needs. For example, some dogs may have allergies or sensitivities to certain foods, so it’s crucial to choose whole foods that are safe for your dog to consume.

In this article, we spent hours researching and testing various whole foods for dogs to identify the best options for your furry friend. We considered factors such as nutritional value, quality of ingredients, and affordability. After extensive research and testing, we’ve narrowed down the top whole foods for dogs that are sure to keep your furry friend healthy and happy.

Best Whole Foods for Dogs

As dog owners, we know how important it is to provide our furry friends with the best nutrition possible. While there are many commercial dog foods available, sometimes it’s nice to supplement their diet with whole foods. Not only can whole foods provide important nutrients, but they can also add variety to your dog’s meals. In this article, we’ve rounded up the best whole foods for dogs, based on their nutritional value and how much dogs tend to enjoy them.

Whole Earth Farms Natural Grain Free Dry Kibble

If you want your furry friend to have a well-balanced diet, Whole Earth Farms Natural Grain Free Dry Kibble is an excellent choice.

Pros

• Crafted with a holistic blend of chicken and turkey, this grain-free dry dog food delivers high-quality protein, and is packed with fiber, vitamins, and minerals.
• The wholesome harvest blend in this dog food recipe delivers omega fatty acids for healthy skin and coat, and antioxidants for a healthy immune system.
• The chicken and turkey grain-free dry recipe contains glucosamine and chondroitin to support hips and joints, and omega-6 and omega-3 fatty acids to nourish skin and coat.

Cons

• Some dogs may not like the taste of this dog food.
• The pellets may be too small for some dogs, and can get stuck in their throat.
• The price of this dog food may be higher than other brands.

We have been using Whole Earth Farms Natural Grain Free Dry Kibble for our dog for a few months now, and we have noticed a significant improvement in her coat and overall health. The protein-packed formula has helped maintain her muscles, and the antioxidants have boosted her immune system. We also love that this dog food is free from artificial flavors, colors, preservatives, fillers, and animal by-product meals.

One thing to note is that some dogs may not like the taste of this dog food. We recommend starting with a small bag to see if your dog likes it before buying a larger bag. Additionally, the pellets may be too small for some dogs, and can get stuck in their throat, so it’s important to monitor your dog while they eat.

Overall, we highly recommend Whole Earth Farms Natural Grain Free Dry Kibble for dogs who need a well-balanced diet. It’s a bit pricier than other brands, but the high-quality ingredients and excellent nutritional value make it worth the investment.

Whole Earth Farms Natural Grain Free Dry Kibble

We highly recommend Whole Earth Farms Natural Grain Free Dry Kibble for dogs who need a healthy and balanced diet.

Pros

• Crafted with a holistic blend of pork, beef, and lamb and field-grown vegetables, this grain-free dry dog food delivers high-quality protein and is packed with fiber, vitamins, and minerals.
• This chicken-free dog food is formulated with high protein to help maintain healthy muscles, and antioxidants to support the immune system.
• Premium real meat dry dog food contains omega-6 and omega-3 fatty acids to nourish skin and coat, with glucosamine and chondroitin to support hips and joints.

Cons

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

Whole Earth Farms Natural Grain Free Dry Kibble is a great choice for dogs who need a healthy and balanced diet. This dog food is made with high-quality ingredients and is free from artificial colors, flavors, and preservatives. The wholesome blend of pork, beef, and lamb and field-grown vegetables provides a natural source of fiber, vitamins, and minerals that your dog needs to stay healthy and happy.

If you’re looking for a dog food that is free from chicken and other poultry by-products, Whole Earth Farms Natural Grain Free Dry Kibble is a great choice. This dog food is formulated with high protein to help maintain healthy muscles, and antioxidants to support the immune system. Additionally, the premium real meat dry dog food contains omega-6 and omega-3 fatty acids to nourish skin and coat, with glucosamine and chondroitin to support hips and joints.

While the kibble size may be too large for small dogs, the high-quality ingredients make it worth considering. Some dogs may not like the taste of this dog food, but many others have enjoyed it. Although the price may be higher than other dog food brands, the quality of the ingredients and the health benefits make it a worthwhile investment for your furry friend.

Nature’s Diet Simply Raw® Freeze-Dried Raw Whole Food Meal

We highly recommend Nature’s Diet Simply Raw® Freeze-Dried Raw Whole Food Meal for pet owners who are looking for a premium, nutrition-packed diet for their furry companions.

Pros

• Raw food made easy with shelf-stable convenience
• Made with only the freshest human-grade ingredients
• All-natural nutrition with no fillers, grains, GMOs, or unnatural preservatives

Cons

• Strong coriander smell may not be appealing to all dogs
• Only available in one flavor (beef)
• Relatively small package size for the price

This freeze-dried raw food meal is a great option for pet owners who want to provide their dogs with a healthy, raw food diet without the hassle of preparing it themselves. Simply add water to the 3 lb bag and you’ll have over 18 lbs of raw whole food ready to serve in minutes.

The ingredients in Simply Raw are carefully chosen to support holistic health and provide functional benefits for lasting wellness. The meal includes raw beef muscle, organ meat, chicken bone broth, whole egg, vegetables, fruit, nuts, seeds, OMEGA fatty acids, probiotics -amp; prebiotics. All of the ingredients are visible and recognizable, so you know exactly what you’re feeding your dog.

At Nature’s Diet, they believe in honest, transparent labels. They are proud of the wholesome, clean ingredients they use to make Simply Raw. Unlike some other brands, they never put anything into their dog food that isn’t listed on the label. No fillers, no grains, no GMOs, no unnatural preservatives, no soy, no added flavorings or dyes. Just honest, raw, whole food nutrition.

The freeze-drying process is a natural food preservation process that removes moisture while maintaining the nutritional integrity of food. Freeze-Dried Raw is always free of pathogens, making it the safest way to feed a raw diet. Simply Raw is shelf-stable, safe to handle, and easy to store.

Overall, we highly recommend Nature’s Diet Simply Raw® Freeze-Dried Raw Whole Food Meal for pet owners who want to provide their dogs with a healthy, raw food diet that is easy to prepare and made with high-quality, all-natural ingredients.

Open Farm Grass-Fed Beef Grain-Free Dry Dog Food

If you’re looking for a high-quality, grain-free dog food that uses humanely-raised beef and non-GMO superfoods, Open Farm’s Grass-Fed Beef Dry Dog Food might be just what you need.

Pros

• The beef is raised without the use of additives and is 100% GAP certified.
• The recipe is loaded with meaty protein, whole probiotic fiber, and essential vitamins and minerals.
• The food is free of grains, corn, and soy, and is made with smart superfoods like pumpkin, carrot, and coconut oil.

Cons

• The food is a bit on the expensive side.
• Some dogs may not like the flavor.
• Some customers have reported that the food gave their dogs digestive issues.

We recently tried Open Farm’s Grass-Fed Beef Dry Dog Food with our own dogs, and we were impressed with the quality of the ingredients. The beef is raised without the use of additives, and the food is free of grains, corn, and soy. We also appreciated the fact that the recipe includes non-GMO superfoods like pumpkin, carrot, and coconut oil.

Our dogs seemed to enjoy the taste of the food, and we noticed that their coats looked shinier and healthier after a few weeks of eating it. We also liked that the lot number on the bag allows us to trace the origin of every ingredient, which gives us peace of mind about the quality of the food.

However, we did find that the food is a bit on the expensive side, and some dogs may not like the flavor. Additionally, some customers have reported that the food gave their dogs digestive issues, so it may not be the best choice for dogs with sensitive stomachs.

Overall, we would recommend Open Farm’s Grass-Fed Beef Dry Dog Food to dog owners who are looking for a high-quality, grain-free dog food that uses humanely-raised beef and non-GMO superfoods. While it may be a bit pricey, we believe that the quality of the ingredients makes it worth the investment.

Wellness CORE RawRev Grain-Free Dry Small Dog Food, Natural Ingredients, Made in USA with Real Freeze-Dried Meat (Adult, Small Breed, 4 lbs) Turkey Small Breed 4 Pound (Pack of 1)

If you’re looking for a high-quality, nutrient-dense dog food that will leave your furry friend feeling satisfied and nourished, Wellness CORE RawRev Grain-Free Dry Small Dog Food is a great choice.

Pros

• This dog food is packed with protein and other essential nutrients to help your dog maintain a healthy weight and lean muscle mass.
• It contains no corn, wheat, or soy, making it a great choice for dogs with food sensitivities or allergies.
• The freeze-dried turkey pieces add a delicious, savory flavor that dogs love.

Cons

• This dog food is on the expensive side, so it may not be the best choice for budget-conscious pet owners.
• Some dogs may not like the texture of the freeze-dried turkey pieces.
• The kibble is quite small, which may not be suitable for larger breeds.

We’ve been feeding our small dog Wellness CORE RawRev Grain-Free Dry Small Dog Food for a few months now, and we’re very happy with the results. Our dog has maintained a healthy weight and seems to have more energy and vitality than before.

One of the things we love about this dog food is the high protein content. The kibble is packed with real meat and other high-quality ingredients that help our dog maintain a lean body mass and strong muscle tone. We’ve also noticed that his coat is shinier and healthier-looking since we switched to this food.

Another great thing about this dog food is that it contains no fillers or artificial ingredients. We feel good knowing that we’re feeding our dog a high-quality, nutritious diet that will help him live a long and healthy life.

Overall, we highly recommend Wellness CORE RawRev Grain-Free Dry Small Dog Food to any pet owner who wants to give their furry friend the best possible nutrition. While it may be a bit pricey, we think it’s worth the investment for the health and well-being of our beloved pet.

Open Farm Ancient Grains Dry Dog Food

If you are looking for a dog food that is made with responsibly raised meat and wholesome ancient grains, Open Farm Ancient Grains Dry Dog Food is a great option.

Pros

• The meat used in this recipe is raised humanely without growth hormones, making it a responsible choice for pet owners.
• The ancient grains used in this recipe are gluten-free and packed with essential nutrients that support your dog’s overall health.
• The recipe is free from artificial flavors, colors, and preservatives, making it a healthy choice for your furry friend.

Cons

• Some dogs may not like the taste or smell of the fish-based protein.
• The kibble is on the expensive side compared to other dog foods.
• The small size of the kibble may not be suitable for larger breeds.

We have been using Open Farm Ancient Grains Dry Dog Food for a few months now, and we have noticed a significant improvement in our dog’s overall health. The recipe is packed with essential nutrients, and the meat used is raised responsibly, which gives us peace of mind.

Our dog seems to enjoy the taste of the Wild Salmon Ancient Grain variant, but we have noticed that some dogs may not like the taste or smell of the fish-based protein. Additionally, the kibble is on the expensive side compared to other dog foods, which may not be suitable for pet owners on a budget. Lastly, the small size of the kibble may not be suitable for larger breeds.

Overall, we highly recommend Open Farm Ancient Grains Dry Dog Food to any pet owner who is looking for a healthy and responsible choice for their furry friend.

Nature’s Recipe Original Dry Dog Food for Adult Dogs, Lamb -amp; Rice Recipe, 24 lb Bag

If you’re looking for a natural dog food that provides your furry friend with the necessary nutrients, Nature’s Recipe Original Dry Dog Food is a great option. Here are the pros and cons of this product:

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.
• 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 smaller breeds.
• The price point may be higher than other dog food brands.

We have been using Nature’s Recipe Original Dry Dog Food for a few months now, and we are happy with the results. Our dog has a sensitive stomach, and this food has not caused any digestive issues. The lamb and rice recipe is a nice change from chicken or beef, and our dog seems to enjoy the taste.

One thing to note is that the kibble size is on the larger side, so it may not be suitable for smaller breeds. However, for medium to large dogs, the size is perfect. Additionally, the price point may be higher than other dog food brands, but we feel that the quality of the ingredients justifies the cost.

Overall, we would recommend Nature’s Recipe Original Dry Dog Food for anyone looking for a natural dog food that provides their furry friend with the necessary nutrients.

Rachael Ray Nutrish Premium Natural Dry Dog Food, Real Beef, Pea, -amp; Brown Rice Recipe

If you’re looking for a nutritious and tasty dog food for your furry friend, Rachael Ray Nutrish Real Beef, Pea -amp; Brown Rice Recipe is a great option.

Pros

• The number one ingredient is real beef, which provides essential protein for maintaining lean muscle mass and supporting healthy organs.
• The Whole Health Blend includes omega-3 fatty acids from fish oil, superfood antioxidants, and whole grains, which help support an active mind, a healthy body, and balanced energy levels.
• The formula contains no fillers, no artificial flavors, and no artificial preservatives, making it a healthy and natural choice for your dog.

Cons

• Some dogs may not like the taste of this food, as it can be a little bland compared to other dog foods.
• The kibble size may be too big for smaller dogs or puppies.
• The price may be a little higher than other dog foods on the market.

We’ve been using Rachael Ray Nutrish Real Beef, Pea -amp; Brown Rice Recipe for our dog for a few months now, and we’ve been very happy with the results. Our dog seems to love the taste of the food, and we’ve noticed that her coat is shinier and her energy levels are higher since we switched to this food.

One of the things we love about this food is that it contains no fillers or artificial ingredients, which makes us feel good about what we’re feeding our dog. We also appreciate that a portion of the proceeds from the sale of this product goes to The Rachael Ray Foundation, which helps animals in need.

Overall, we highly recommend Rachael Ray Nutrish Real Beef, Pea -amp; Brown Rice Recipe for anyone looking for a nutritious and natural dog food for their furry friend.

The Honest Kitchen Whole Food Clusters Whole Grain Chicken -amp; Oat Dry Dog Food

If you’re looking for a high-quality dog food that’s made with real, whole ingredients, The Honest Kitchen Whole Food Clusters Whole Grain Chicken -amp; Oat Dry Dog Food is a great option.

Pros

• Made with human-grade ingredients for better quality and safety standards
• Contains real muscle meat, liver, and fiber-rich oats for premium nutrition
• Minimally processed to maintain the taste and nutrients of whole foods

Cons

• Some dogs may not like the taste or texture of the clusters
• More expensive than some other dog food options
• May not be suitable for dogs with certain dietary restrictions (e.g. grain-free)

We’ve been using The Honest Kitchen Whole Food Clusters for a few months now and have been really impressed with the quality of the product. The fact that it’s made with human-grade ingredients gives us peace of mind knowing that our dog is getting the best possible nutrition.

One thing we love about this dog food is that it contains real muscle meat and liver, which are excellent sources of protein for dogs. The oats also provide fiber, which helps with digestion. We appreciate that this recipe is free of potatoes and legumes, which can be problematic for some dogs.

The clusters themselves are bite-sized and easy to serve, and we like that they’re minimally processed to maintain the taste and nutrients of whole foods. However, we have noticed that some dogs may not like the taste or texture of the clusters, so it may not be the best option for picky eaters.

The only downside to this product is that it’s more expensive than some other dog food options. However, we believe that the quality of the ingredients justifies the higher price point. It’s also worth noting that this recipe may not be suitable for dogs with certain dietary restrictions, such as those who require a grain-free diet.

Overall, we highly recommend The Honest Kitchen Whole Food Clusters Whole Grain Chicken -amp; Oat Dry Dog Food for anyone looking for a high-quality, whole food-based dog food option.

The Honest Kitchen Dehydrated Whole Grain Chicken Dog Food

If you’re looking for a high-quality, human-grade food for your furry friend, The Honest Kitchen Dehydrated Whole Grain Chicken Dog Food is a great option.

Pros

• Made with human-grade, whole food ingredients
• Suitable for puppies and adult dogs of all breeds and sizes
• Contains no preservatives, by-products, fillers, GMO ingredients, corn, wheat, or soy

Cons

• Some dogs may not like the taste
• Expensive compared to other dog foods
• Can take some time to prepare

We’ve been feeding this food to our dog for a few weeks now, and we’ve noticed a significant improvement in his coat and overall health. The food is made with high-quality, whole food ingredients that are gently dehydrated for maximum flavor and nutrient retention. Plus, it’s easy to prepare – just add warm water and wait three minutes for a tasty, homemade meal that your pet will love.

One thing to keep in mind is that this food is quite expensive compared to other dog foods on the market. However, we believe that the quality of the ingredients and the health benefits make it worth the investment.

Overall, we highly recommend The Honest Kitchen Dehydrated Whole Grain Chicken Dog Food for pet owners who want to provide their furry friends with the best possible nutrition.

Buying Guide

When it comes to buying whole foods for your furry friend, there are a few things to keep in mind to ensure you are getting the best product for your dog. Here are some features to look for:

Ingredients

The first thing to consider when buying whole foods for dogs is the ingredients. Look for products that have high-quality, whole-food ingredients such as lean meats, fresh fruits, and vegetables. Avoid products that contain fillers, by-products, or artificial preservatives, which can be harmful to your dog’s health.

Nutritional Value

Make sure the whole food you choose provides your dog with the necessary nutrients. Look for products that are high in protein, fiber, vitamins, and minerals. A balanced diet is essential for your dog’s overall health and well-being.

Quality

Choose whole foods that are of high quality. Look for products that are made by reputable manufacturers and have been tested for safety and quality. You can also check for certifications such as USDA organic, which guarantees the product has been made with organic ingredients.

Flavor and Texture

Dogs are picky eaters, so it’s important to choose whole foods that your dog will enjoy. Look for products that have a flavor and texture that your dog likes. You can also try different types of whole foods to see what your dog prefers.

Price

Whole foods for dogs can be expensive, so it’s important to consider the price when choosing a product. Look for products that offer good value for money. You can also compare prices between different brands to find the best deal.

By considering these features, you can choose the best whole foods for your dog and ensure they are getting the nutrition they need to live a healthy and happy life.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the healthiest whole food ingredients to include in a dog’s diet?

Some of the healthiest whole food ingredients to include in a dog’s diet are lean meats such as chicken, turkey, and fish, as well as fresh fruits and vegetables like sweet potatoes, carrots, and blueberries. These ingredients are packed with essential vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants that can help support your dog’s overall health and well-being.

How can I transition my dog to a whole food diet safely?

Transitioning your dog to a whole food diet should be done gradually over a period of several weeks to avoid any digestive upset. Start by slowly introducing small amounts of whole foods into your dog’s current diet, and gradually increase the amount over time. Be sure to monitor your dog’s stool and overall health during the transition process.

What are the benefits of feeding senior dogs a whole food-based diet?

Feeding senior dogs a whole food-based diet can provide them with the essential nutrients they need to maintain their health and vitality as they age. Whole foods can help support joint health, cognitive function, and immune system function, and may also help reduce the risk of age-related diseases.

How do I determine the appropriate portion sizes of whole foods for my dog?

The appropriate portion size of whole foods for your dog will depend on their age, weight, and activity level. As a general rule, dogs should be fed 2-3% of their body weight in food each day, with the exact amount adjusted based on their individual needs. Consult with your veterinarian to determine the appropriate portion sizes for your dog.

Which whole foods should be avoided in a dog’s diet?

Some whole foods that should be avoided in a dog’s diet include grapes and raisins, onions and garlic, avocados, and chocolate. These foods can be toxic to dogs and can cause serious health problems if ingested.

Can a whole food diet meet all the nutritional needs of my dog?

A well-balanced whole food diet can meet all of your dog’s nutritional needs, provided that it is properly formulated and includes a variety of different whole food ingredients. Consult with your veterinarian or a veterinary nutritionist to ensure that your dog’s whole food diet is complete and balanced.