Consumer Report: Best Dog Food for Healthy and Happy Pups

Choosing the right dog food is essential to ensure your furry friend stays healthy and happy. With so many options available, it can be overwhelming to know where to start. That’s where Consumer Reports comes in. Our team of experts has spent countless hours researching and testing various dog foods to identify the best options on the market.

When it comes to choosing the best dog food, there are several critical factors to consider. The first is the quality of the ingredients. Look for dog foods made with high-quality protein sources, such as chicken, beef, or fish. Avoid dog foods that contain fillers, by-products, or artificial preservatives.

Another factor to consider is the type of dog food. There are several options available, including dry kibble, wet food, and raw food. Each type has its pros and cons, and the best option for your dog will depend on their individual needs.

After extensive testing and research, we’ve identified the top dog foods on the market. Our list includes options for dogs of all ages, sizes, and dietary needs. Whether you’re looking for a high-protein option for an active dog or a grain-free option for a dog with food sensitivities, we’ve got you covered.

So, if you’re looking for the best dog food for your furry friend, look no further than Consumer Reports. We’ve done the research so you can make an informed decision and keep your dog healthy and happy.

Best Dog Foods

We know that finding the right food for your furry friend can be overwhelming. With so many options available, it can be challenging to determine which one is the best for your dog. That’s why we’ve put together a list of the best dog foods based on Consumer Reports. Our team of experts has researched and tested various brands to bring you the top picks. Whether your dog has specific dietary needs or you’re looking for a high-quality option, we’ve got you covered. Check out our list below to find the perfect food for your pup.

Nature’s Recipe Mature Dry Dog Food, Lamb -amp; Rice Recipe, 4 Pound Bag

We highly recommend Nature’s Recipe Mature Lamb -amp; Brown Rice Recipe for dogs 7 . It is a premium quality dog food that is reasonably priced.

Pros

• The number-one ingredient is real lamb, which is a quality protein source that helps maintain optimal muscle strength.
• Fiber from whole grains like barley and brown rice helps support digestion and immune system health.
• It is a natural dog food with added vitamins, minerals, and nutrients — no poultry by-products or artificial colors, preservatives, or flavors, and no added corn, wheat, or soy.

Cons

• Some dogs may not like the lamb flavor.
• The resealable seal on the inside of the bag may come off.
• It may not be suitable for dogs with certain dietary restrictions.

We have been using Nature’s Recipe Mature Lamb -amp; Brown Rice Recipe for our senior dog, and we have noticed a significant improvement in her overall health. The natural ingredients have helped support her digestion, immune system, and joint health. We also appreciate that it contains no artificial ingredients and is reasonably priced.

The lamb flavor may not be suitable for all dogs, but our dog has enjoyed it. We have also had some issues with the resealable seal on the inside of the bag coming off, which can make it difficult to keep the food fresh. However, overall, we have been very satisfied with this product and would highly recommend it to other dog owners looking for a high-quality dog food that won’t break the bank.

In summary, if you’re looking for a natural, high-quality dog food that is reasonably priced, then Nature’s Recipe Mature Lamb -amp; Brown Rice Recipe is an excellent choice. It contains no artificial ingredients and is formulated to help support your dog’s overall health and well-being.

Hill’s Science Diet Small Paws™ Adult 11 Dry Dog Food

We highly recommend the Hill’s Science Diet Small Paws™ Adult 11 dry dog food for senior small-breed dogs.

Pros

• The omega-3 fatty acids from fish oil promote joint health and mobility.
• The balanced set of minerals supports a healthy heart, kidneys, and bladder.
• The nourishing omega-6 fatty acids and vitamin E help maintain healthy skin and coat.

Cons

• The kibble size is small, which may not be suitable for larger dogs.
• The chicken and barley flavor may not be appealing to all dogs.
• The price point may be higher than other dog food brands.

As a dog owner of a senior small-breed dog, we have tried various dog food brands and found Hill’s Science Diet Small Paws™ Adult 11 to be the best. Our dog’s mobility has improved, and their coat is shiny and healthy. The kibble size is perfect for our small dog, and they love the taste. Although the price point is higher than other brands, we believe the quality of the ingredients justifies the cost.

We appreciate that Hill’s uses natural ingredients and has a special antioxidant blend to promote lifelong health and support the immune system. The company’s commitment to donating food to shelters across the country also aligns with our values.

Overall, we highly recommend Hill’s Science Diet Small Paws™ Adult 11 dry dog food for senior small-breed dogs who need tailored nutrition to support healthy aging.

IAMS Healthy Aging Adult Large Breed Dry Dog Food

If you are looking for a dog food that caters to the specific needs of your large breed senior dog, then IAMS Healthy Aging Adult Large Breed Dry Dog Food with Real Chicken is a great option.

Pros

• The first ingredient is real, farm-raised chicken
• Formulated to support healthy bones and joint health with a balance of key nutrients for large aging dogs
• Promotes healthy digestion with a blend of fiber and prebiotics

Cons

• Some customers have reported difficulty finding the expiration date on the bag
• The kibble size may be too large for some dogs
• Contains corn and wheat, which may not be suitable for dogs with certain dietary restrictions

We have been feeding our senior dog IAMS Healthy Aging Adult Large Breed Dry Dog Food with Real Chicken for a few months now, and we have noticed a significant improvement in his mobility and digestion. The real chicken as the first ingredient provides him with the protein he needs to maintain his muscle mass, while the balance of key nutrients promotes healthy bones and joints. The blend of fiber and prebiotics also helps with his digestion, and we have noticed a decrease in his gas and bloating.

One thing to note is that some customers have reported difficulty finding the expiration date on the bag, so it is important to check carefully before purchasing. Additionally, the kibble size may be too large for some dogs, so it is important to monitor your dog’s chewing and swallowing. Finally, it is important to note that this dog food contains corn and wheat, which may not be suitable for dogs with certain dietary restrictions.

Overall, we highly recommend IAMS Healthy Aging Adult Large Breed Dry Dog Food with Real Chicken for senior dogs who need a balanced and nutritious diet to support their specific needs.

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 nutritious and delicious dog food, Nature’s Recipe Grain Free Salmon, Sweet Potato -amp; Pumpkin Recipe is a great option. We highly recommend this product for its high-quality ingredients and affordable price.

Pros

• Real salmon is the number one ingredient, making it a great source of protein for your dog’s muscles.
• Contains fiber from sweet potatoes and pumpkin to support healthy digestion and immune system health.
• Omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids from salmon help support skin and coat health.

Cons

• Some customers have reported that the food smells different or has a different color than previous bags they’ve purchased.
• While it is grain-free, it still contains carbohydrate sources like sweet potato and pumpkin, which may not be suitable for all dogs.
• Some dogs may not like the taste or texture of this food.

We recently tried this dog food with our furry friend and were impressed with the quality of the ingredients. The real salmon as the first ingredient ensured that our dog was getting a good source of protein for his muscles. Additionally, the fiber from sweet potatoes and pumpkin helped support his digestion and overall immune system health. We also noticed an improvement in his skin and coat health after switching to this food.

However, we did notice that the food had a different smell and color than previous bags we had purchased. While this did not affect our dog’s enjoyment of the food, it may be a concern for some customers. Additionally, some dogs may not like the taste or texture of this food, so it’s important to introduce it slowly and monitor your dog’s reaction.

Overall, we highly recommend Nature’s Recipe Grain Free Salmon, Sweet Potato -amp; Pumpkin Recipe for its high-quality ingredients and affordable price. It’s a great option for dogs who need a nutritious and delicious food to fuel their wag-worthy adventures.

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

We highly recommend Stella -amp; Chewy’s Wild Red Dry Dog Food Raw Blend for pet owners who want to feed their furry friends a nutritious, grain-free diet that supports their overall health and well-being.

Pros

• Love Is Raw: Our Raw Blend dog food offers the protein-rich taste dogs crave with the nutrition they deserve; the flavor and nutrition of raw is in every bite with freeze-dried raw coating, plus freeze-dried raw chunks
• Feed Your Dog’s Wild Side! Our Red Meat Recipe includes six poultry-free animal protein sources: beef, pork, lamb, bison, venison and goat
• Whole Prey Ingredients: Feeding your pet a diet similar to what their ancestors enjoyed in the wild helps your pet thrive; 90% of the recipe’s protein comes from animal muscle meat, organ meat and cartilage

Cons

• Some dogs may not like the taste of the recipe
• The price point is a bit higher than some other dog food brands
• The kibble size may be too large for smaller dogs

We recently tried out Stella -amp; Chewy’s Wild Red Dry Dog Food Raw Blend and were impressed with the quality of the ingredients and the nutritional benefits it provides for our furry friend. The recipe is packed with responsibly sourced, animal-based protein from multiple meat sources, coated with freeze-dried raw and blended with raw freeze-dried nuggets. This provides a protein-rich taste dogs crave with the nutrition they deserve. With low carbohydrates and no fillers, legumes, artificial colors, flavor or preservatives, these recipes will feed your dog’s wild side.

One of the things we love about this dog food is that it includes six poultry-free animal protein sources: beef, pork, lamb, bison, venison, and goat. This ensures that our dog is getting a variety of protein sources that are easy to digest and packed with essential nutrients. Additionally, the recipe is grain-free, making it easy for dogs of all life stages to digest, with no unnecessary fillers and only the finest ingredients.

We also appreciate that this dog food supports whole body health, as it is fortified with vitamins, minerals, and amino acids. The recipe includes fiber and probiotics for digestive support and taurine for heart health. Antioxidants from fruits and veggies help support a healthy immune system, while naturally occurring glucosamine and chondroitin help support hip and joint health. Omega fatty acids from chia seeds and salmon oil provide skin and coat support, making our dog’s fur shiny and healthy.

Overall, we highly recommend Stella -amp; Chewy’s Wild Red Dry Dog Food Raw Blend for pet owners who want to provide their dogs with a high-quality, nutritious diet that supports their overall health and well-being.

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

If you’re looking for a high-quality dog food that is packed with protein and nutrients, then you’ll want to check out Stella -amp; Chewy’s Wild Red Dry Dog Food Raw Coated High Protein Grain -amp; Legume Free Ocean Recipe. Our furry friend loves it, and we think you will too!

Pros

• Love Is Raw: Our Raw Coated dog food offers the protein-rich taste dogs crave with the nutrition they deserve; each bite is coated in delicious and nutritious freeze-dried raw meat.
• Whole Prey Ingredients: Feeding your pet a diet similar to what their ancestors enjoyed in the wild helps your pet thrive; 86% of the recipe’s protein comes from animal muscle meat, cartilage, and organ meat.
• Great for the Skin -amp; Coat: Omega fatty acids from chia and pumpkin seeds and salmon oil provide skin and coat support.

Cons

• Pricey: This dog food is more expensive than some other brands.
• Expiration Date: Some customers have reported that the product’s expiration date is too soon after purchase.
• Not Available Everywhere: Depending on where you live, it may be difficult to find this product.

We love how Stella -amp; Chewy’s Wild Red Dry Dog Food Raw Coated High Protein Grain -amp; Legume Free Ocean Recipe is packed with high-quality protein and nutrients. Our furry friend’s coat is shiny and healthy, and we’ve noticed an improvement in their overall health since we started feeding them this food.

The only downside is that it is more expensive than some other dog foods on the market. Additionally, some customers have reported that the product’s expiration date is too soon after purchase. Finally, depending on where you live, it may be difficult to find this product.

Overall, we highly recommend Stella -amp; Chewy’s Wild Red Dry Dog Food Raw Coated High Protein Grain -amp; Legume Free Ocean Recipe to anyone looking for a high-quality dog food that is packed with protein and nutrients. Your furry friend will love it!

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

If you’re looking for a dog food that’s both nutritious and delicious, Nature’s Recipe Original dry dog food is a great option. We’ve tried it out and here’s what we think:

Pros

• Real, protein-rich lamb as the #1 ingredient helps 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.
• Not suitable for puppies or senior dogs.
• The kibble size may be too small for larger breeds.

We found that our dogs really enjoyed the lamb and rice recipe, and we appreciated that it contained no added fillers or artificial ingredients. The whole grains provided a good source of fiber, which helped keep our dogs’ digestion regular and healthy. Plus, the protein-rich lamb helped our dogs maintain strong muscles.

However, we did notice that some dogs may not like the taste of this food, so it’s important to introduce it slowly and monitor your dog’s reaction. Additionally, this food is not suitable for puppies or senior dogs, as they have different nutritional needs. Finally, the kibble size may be too small for larger breeds, so keep that in mind if you have a big dog.

Overall, we think Nature’s Recipe Original dry dog food is a great choice for adult dogs who need a balanced and nutritious diet. Plus, with no added fillers or artificial ingredients, you can feel good about what you’re feeding your furry friend.

Open Farm Ancient Grains Dry Dog Food

If you’re looking for a premium dog food that’s loaded with real meat, whole grains, and fresh produce without any artificial additives, then Open Farm Ancient Grains Dry Dog Food is a great option.

Pros

• Humanely raised meat from audited high-welfare family farms
• Wholesome ancient grains like steel-cut oats, brown rice, quinoa, and chia seeds
• Smart superfoods like pumpkin, chicory root, and coconut oil

Cons

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

We’ve been using Open Farm Ancient Grains Dry Dog Food for a few months now, and we’ve noticed a significant improvement in our dog’s overall health and energy levels. The humanely raised meat is a great source of protein and is free from any growth hormones, while the ancient grains provide essential nutrients like omega-3 fatty acids, iron, vitamins, and fiber.

One thing we really appreciate about this dog food is the transparency of the sourcing practices. The lot number on the bag allows us to trace the origin of every ingredient, which gives us peace of mind knowing that we’re feeding our dog a high-quality, responsibly-sourced diet.

While the price may be a bit higher than some other dog food brands, we feel that the quality of the ingredients and the overall health benefits make it worth the investment. If you’re looking for a premium dog food that’s made with real, wholesome ingredients, then we highly recommend giving Open Farm Ancient Grains Dry Dog Food a try.

IAMS Advanced Health Adult Healthy Digestion Dry Dog Food with Real Chicken, 6 lb. Bag Chicken 96 Fl Oz (Pack of 1)

We highly recommend IAMS Advanced Health Adult Healthy Digestion Dry Dog Food with Real Chicken for dog owners who want to maintain their dog’s digestive health. This formula is made with real, farm-raised chicken and a blend of natural fiber and prebiotics that support regularity and healthy stools. It is also formulated without wheat, artificial flavors, or artificial preservatives.

Pros

• Made with real, farm-raised chicken
• Supports regularity and healthy stools
• Formulated without wheat, artificial flavors, or artificial preservatives

Cons

• May contain trace amounts of wheat, artificial flavors, or artificial preservatives due to potential cross-contact during manufacturing
• May not be suitable for dogs with specific dietary needs or restrictions
• Some dogs may not prefer the taste or texture of the kibble

We have been using IAMS Advanced Health Adult Healthy Digestion Dry Dog Food with Real Chicken for our dog and have noticed a significant improvement in her digestive health. The prebiotics and natural fiber in the formula have helped regulate her bowel movements and she seems to enjoy the taste of the kibble. Additionally, we appreciate that the formula is made with real chicken and does not contain any artificial flavors or preservatives.

One potential downside of the product is that it may contain trace amounts of wheat, artificial flavors, or artificial preservatives due to potential cross-contact during manufacturing. Additionally, some dogs may not prefer the taste or texture of the kibble, so it may not be the best option for picky eaters.

Overall, we believe that IAMS Advanced Health Adult Healthy Digestion Dry Dog Food with Real Chicken is a high-quality option for dog owners who want to prioritize their dog’s digestive health.

Hill’s Science Diet Small Paws™ Adult Dry Dog Food

If you’re looking for a high-quality dog food that’s specifically tailored to the unique needs of small and mini dogs, Hill’s Science Diet Small Paws™ Adult Dry Dog Food is an excellent choice.

Pros

• Supports healthy digestion with small kibble and easily digestible ingredients
• A nourishing blend of omega-6 fatty acids and vitamin E for healthy skin and coat
• Provides high-quality protein to maintain lean muscle in small dogs

Cons

• Some dogs may not like the lamb flavor
• The kibble size may be too small for larger toy breeds
• May be more expensive than other dog foods on the market

We’ve been using Hill’s Science Diet Small Paws™ Adult Dry Dog Food for our small breed dog for several months now, and have been very pleased with the results. The small kibble size is perfect for our dog’s tiny mouth, and the easily digestible ingredients have helped with her sensitive stomach.

One of the things we love most about this dog food is the nourishing blend of omega-6 fatty acids and vitamin E, which has helped keep our dog’s skin and coat healthy and shiny. Additionally, the high-quality protein has helped her maintain lean muscle mass, which is important for small dogs.

While some dogs may not like the lamb flavor, our dog seems to enjoy it and has never turned her nose up at mealtime. However, the small kibble size may be too small for larger toy breeds, so it’s important to consider your dog’s size and preferences before purchasing.

Overall, we highly recommend Hill’s Science Diet Small Paws™ Adult Dry Dog Food for small breed dogs who need tailored nutrition for their unique needs. While it may be more expensive than other dog foods on the market, we believe the quality ingredients and tailored nutrition make it worth the investment.

Buying Guide

When it comes to choosing the best dog food for your furry friend, there are several factors to consider. We understand that there are numerous brands and types of dog food available in the market, which can be overwhelming. Therefore, we have put together a buying guide to help you make an informed decision.

Nutritional Requirements

The first thing to consider is your dog’s nutritional requirements. Dogs require a balanced diet that includes protein, carbohydrates, fats, vitamins, and minerals. You should choose dog food that meets the nutritional requirements of your dog’s breed, age, and activity level. For instance, puppies require more protein and fat than adult dogs, while senior dogs require fewer calories.

Ingredients

The quality of ingredients used in dog food is another crucial factor to consider. You should look for dog food that contains high-quality proteins, such as chicken, beef, or fish, as the main ingredient. Avoid dog food that contains fillers, artificial preservatives, and by-products. Additionally, you should avoid dog food that contains allergens, such as wheat, soy, and corn, if your dog has food sensitivities.

Type of Dog Food

There are several types of dog food available, including dry kibble, wet canned food, and raw food. Dry kibble is the most common type of dog food and is convenient to store and serve. Wet canned food is a good option for dogs that need more moisture in their diet. Raw food is a controversial option that requires careful handling to avoid foodborne illnesses.

Brand Reputation

The reputation of the brand is also an important factor to consider. You should choose a brand that has a good reputation for producing high-quality dog food. Look for brands that have been in the market for a long time and have a proven track record of producing safe and nutritious dog food.

In conclusion, choosing the best dog food for your furry friend can be challenging, but by considering the nutritional requirements, ingredients, type of dog food, and brand reputation, you can make an informed decision. We hope that this buying guide has been helpful in your search for the best dog food.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the top-rated dog food brands for 2024?

Based on our research and analysis, the top-rated dog food brands for 2024 are Acana, Orijen, and Blue Buffalo. These brands have consistently received high ratings from both consumers and experts in the industry.

Which dog foods have veterinarians recommended most in 2024?

In 2024, veterinarians have recommended brands such as Hill’s Science Diet, Royal Canin, and Purina Pro Plan. These brands are known for their high-quality ingredients and balanced nutrition that can help support a dog’s overall health.

Are there any dog food brands that have been recalled this year?

As of the current date, there have been no dog food brands that have been recalled in 2024. However, it’s always important to stay informed about any recalls that may occur and to check the FDA website regularly for updates.

What ingredients should I look for in a high-quality dog food?

When looking for a high-quality dog food, it’s important to look for ingredients such as protein from animal sources, whole grains, fruits, and vegetables. Avoid dog foods that contain fillers, by-products, and artificial preservatives.

How do I choose the best dry dog food for my dog’s specific needs?

When choosing the best dry dog food for your dog’s specific needs, consider factors such as their age, breed, size, and activity level. Consult with your veterinarian to determine the best type of dog food for your furry friend.

What are the healthiest options for feeding a small breed dog?

Small breed dogs have unique nutritional needs, and it’s important to choose a dog food that is specifically formulated for their size and activity level. Look for dog foods that are high in protein and fat, and that contain small kibble sizes to make it easier for them to eat. Brands such as Wellness, Blue Buffalo, and Merrick offer great options for small breed dogs.