Consumer Reports Best Dry Dog Food for 2024

Dry dog food is a popular choice for pet owners because it is convenient, easy to store, and can provide complete nutrition for dogs of all ages and sizes. However, with so many options available, it can be challenging to know which brand to choose. That’s where Consumer Reports comes in. Our team of experts has spent countless hours researching and testing dry dog food to identify the best options on the market.

When it comes to selecting the best dry dog food, there are several critical factors to consider. First and foremost, the food should be nutritionally balanced and meet the specific needs of your dog’s breed, age, and activity level. It’s also essential to choose a brand that uses high-quality ingredients and avoids harmful additives and preservatives.

After extensive research and testing, we have identified the top dry dog food brands that meet these criteria and more. Our team evaluated each brand based on factors such as ingredient quality, nutritional value, taste, and price. We also considered feedback from pet owners and veterinarians to ensure that our recommendations are both reliable and practical.

In this article, we will share our top picks for the best dry dog food, along with detailed information on each brand’s ingredients, nutritional value, and overall quality. Whether you’re looking for a premium brand or an affordable option, we’ve got you covered. So, let’s dive in and find the perfect dry dog food for your furry friend.

Best Dry Dog Food

We understand that choosing the right food for your furry friend can be a daunting task. With so many options available, it can be overwhelming to determine which one is the best fit for your dog’s unique needs. That’s why we’ve compiled a list of the best dry dog food options recommended by Consumer Reports. Our team of experts has thoroughly researched and analyzed each product based on its ingredients, nutritional value, and customer reviews. We are confident that these top picks will provide your dog with the essential nutrients they need to live a healthy and happy life.

Health Extension Little Bites Dry Dog Food

We highly recommend Health Extension Little Bites Dry Dog Food for pet owners who want to provide their dogs with a healthy and delicious meal.

Pros

• Made with high-quality, whole food ingredients that promote a shiny coat and healthy lifestyle for your pup.
• Grain and gluten-free, making it perfect for teacups, toys, and miniature dogs with sensitivities.
• Contains no rendered animal fats, colors, dyes, added sugar, Ethoxyquin, or BHT.

Cons

• The price has tripled in the last year on Amazon, making it more expensive than other dog food brands.
• The kibble is tiny, making it difficult for larger dogs to eat.
• Some dogs may not like the taste of the buffalo and whitefish recipe.

We love Health Extension Little Bites Dry Dog Food because it is made with real meat and other wholesome ingredients. This food is tested to ensure safety and quality, and it is packed with all of the delicious taste and nourishment that your dog craves.

The grain-free formula is perfect for dogs with sensitivities, and the added probiotics help promote a healthy immune system. The small kibble size is perfect for teacups, toys, and miniature dogs, and it makes it easy to pour and store.

One of the cons of this dog food is that it has become more expensive on Amazon in the last year. However, we believe that the high-quality ingredients and health benefits make it worth the price.

Overall, Health Extension Little Bites Dry Dog Food is an excellent choice for pet owners who want to provide their dogs with a healthy and delicious meal.

WAG Dry Dog Food Chicken -amp; Sweet Potato

If you’re looking for a high-quality dog food that is free from grains and artificial preservatives, WAG Dry Dog Food Chicken -amp; Sweet Potato is a great option. We highly recommend this product because it is made with real meat and vegetables, and is formulated with the help of veterinarians and pet nutritionists.

Pros

• Real meat is the #1 ingredient, providing high-quality protein to keep your dog healthy and active.
• Grain-free formula is easy to digest and ideal for dogs with sensitive stomachs.
• Made in a family-owned facility in California, USA, ensuring high-quality ingredients and production standards.

Cons

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

We have been using WAG Dry Dog Food Chicken -amp; Sweet Potato for several months now, and our dog loves it. The real meat and vegetables give it a great taste that he can’t resist, and we love that it is free from grains and artificial preservatives. We have noticed that our dog has more energy and a shinier coat since we started using this product.

One thing to keep in mind is that the kibble size may be too large for small dogs, so you may need to break it up or soak it in water before feeding. Additionally, the price may be higher than some other brands of dog food, but we believe that the quality of the ingredients and production process makes it worth the extra cost.

Overall, we highly recommend WAG Dry Dog Food Chicken -amp; Sweet Potato to anyone looking for a high-quality, grain-free dog food that is made with real meat and vegetables.

Black Gold Explorer Dry Dog Food for Adult Dogs, Original Performance 26/18 Formula, 50 lb Bag Beef 50 Pound (Pack of 1)

If you have an active and athletic dog, Black Gold Explorer Original Performance Formula 26/18 might be the perfect food for them. It provides the specific nutrition active dogs need to maintain endurance and stamina. Here are the pros and cons of this dry dog food:

Pros

• With high levels of protein and energy, Black Gold Explorer Original Performance Formula 26/18 provides the specific nutrition active, athletic, and competitive dogs need to maintain endurance and stamina.
• Natural sources of glucosamine and chondroitin sulfate help support healthy joints.
• Our essential oil blend provides guaranteed levels of Omega 6 -amp; Omega 3 fatty acids to help maintain healthy skin and coat.

Cons

• The kibble is heavy, so some dogs might not like the texture.
• Some customers have reported issues with the packaging, such as busted bags or damaged product.
• This food might not be suitable for dogs with certain dietary restrictions or health issues.

We’ve been using Black Gold Explorer Original Performance Formula 26/18 for a few months now, and we’ve noticed a definite improvement in our dog’s energy levels and coat. The kibble is a bit heavy, but our dog seems to enjoy the texture. We appreciate that this food contains natural sources of glucosamine and chondroitin sulfate to support joint health, as well as essential fatty acids to promote healthy skin and coat. However, we have had some issues with the packaging in the past, so be sure to check your bags carefully upon arrival.

Overall, we would recommend Black Gold Explorer Original Performance Formula 26/18 to other dog owners with active and athletic pets. It provides the specific nutrition they need to maintain endurance and stamina, and the added joint and skin/coat support is a bonus.

NUTRO ULTRA Adult High Protein Natural Dry Dog Food with a Trio of Proteins from Chicken, Lamb and Salmon, 15 lb. Bag 15 Pound (Pack of 1)

If you’re looking for a high-quality dry dog food that’s nutrient-rich and full of flavor, NUTRO ULTRA Adult Dry Dog Food is an excellent choice. Our team has tested this product and can confidently recommend it to dog owners who want to give their furry friends a healthy and delicious meal.

Pros

• The blend of chicken, lamb, and salmon provides a trio of high-quality protein that’s great for adult dogs.
• The 15 vibrant superfoods like coconut, chia, kale, and blueberries offer a balanced diet that’s nutrient-rich and full of flavor.
• NUTRO ULTRA Dry Dog Food is made with high-quality ingredients and has no chicken by-product meal, corn, wheat, or soy protein and no artificial flavors, colors, or preservatives.

Cons

• Trace amounts of genetically modified material may be present due to potential cross-contact during manufacturing.
• Some dogs may not like the taste of this food.
• It may be more expensive than other dry dog food brands.

Our team found that NUTRO ULTRA Adult Dry Dog Food with a Trio of Proteins From Chicken, Lamb and Salmon is a great choice for dogs who need a high-quality, nutrient-rich diet. This dry dog food is made with real chicken as the #1 ingredient and features a blend of 15 vibrant superfoods that provide a balanced diet for adult dogs.

One of the best things about this product is that it’s made with high-quality ingredients and has no chicken by-product meal, corn, wheat, or soy protein and no artificial flavors, colors, or preservatives. This means that you can feel good about feeding your dog a healthy and natural diet.

However, it’s important to note that trace amounts of genetically modified material may be present due to potential cross-contact during manufacturing. Additionally, some dogs may not like the taste of this food, so it may take some trial and error to find a dry dog food that your furry friend enjoys.

Overall, we highly recommend NUTRO ULTRA Adult Dry Dog Food with a Trio of Proteins From Chicken, Lamb and Salmon to dog owners who want to give their pets a healthy and delicious meal.

IAMS Advanced Health Immune Health Adult Dry Dog Food Chicken -amp; Exclusive Superfoods Medley Recipe

We highly recommend IAMS Advanced Health Immune Health Adult Dry Dog Food Chicken -amp; Exclusive Superfoods Medley Recipe for pet owners who want to provide their dogs with a nutritious diet that supports their immune system and overall health.

Pros

• The recipe contains antioxidants Vitamin C and E to support immune defense and fight free radicals.
• The exclusive Superfoods Medley provides essential nutrients and wholesome grains for healthy energy throughout the day.
• The crunchy kibble promotes healthy teeth by reducing plaque build-up that can lead to bad breath.

Cons

• The recipe may contain trace amounts of artificial flavors or preservatives due to potential cross-contact during manufacturing.
• The suggested feeding amounts may not be suitable for all dogs and may need to be adjusted based on age, activity, and temperament.
• The 27 lb. bag may not be suitable for pet owners with limited storage space.

We have been using IAMS Advanced Health Immune Health Adult Dry Dog Food Chicken -amp; Exclusive Superfoods Medley Recipe for our dog and have noticed a significant improvement in her overall health and energy levels. The recipe is made with real, farm-raised chicken as the #1 ingredient, providing a premium-tailored recipe that is both delicious and nutritious. The exclusive Superfoods Medley of flaxseed, egg, carrots, coconut, chia seeds, pumpkin, kale, spinach, tomato pomace, and probiotics provides essential nutrients and wholesome grains for healthy energy throughout the day.

We appreciate that the recipe contains antioxidants Vitamin C and E to support immune defense and fight free radicals. The crunchy kibble also promotes healthy teeth by reducing plaque build-up that can lead to bad breath. However, we do note that the recipe may contain trace amounts of artificial flavors or preservatives due to potential cross-contact during manufacturing.

Overall, we highly recommend IAMS Advanced Health Immune Health Adult Dry Dog Food Chicken -amp; Exclusive Superfoods Medley Recipe for pet owners who want to provide their dogs with a nutritious diet that supports their immune system and overall health.

NUTRO ULTRA Small Breed Adult Recipe

We recommend this product for small breed adult dogs who require a nutrient-rich diet that is full of flavor.

Pros

• Crafted using quality ingredients that satisfy and nourish
• Features trio of protein from chicken, lamb, and salmon and a blend of 15 vibrant superfoods
• Made with Non-GMO ingredients and have no chicken by-product meal, corn, wheat, or soy protein and no artificial flavors, colors, or preservatives

Cons

• Trace amounts of genetically modified material may be present due to potential cross-contact during manufacturing
• Some dogs may not like the taste or texture of the kibble
• A bit pricier than some other dog food brands

We recently tried NUTRO ULTRA Small Breed Adult Recipe for our small breed dog, and we were impressed with the quality of the ingredients and the nutrient-rich formula. The kibble was easy for our dog to chew and digest, and he seemed to really enjoy the taste.

One of the standout features of this dog food is the trio of protein from chicken, lamb, and salmon, which provides a balanced diet for adult dogs. Additionally, the blend of 15 vibrant superfoods like coconut, chia, kale, and blueberries adds an extra boost of nutrition and flavor.

We also appreciate that NUTRO ULTRA follows the NUTRO FEED CLEAN philosophy, using high-quality ingredients sourced from trusted farmers and suppliers. The fact that this dog food is made with Non-GMO ingredients and has no chicken by-product meal, corn, wheat, or soy protein and no artificial flavors, colors, or preservatives is a big plus.

While there may be some trace amounts of genetically modified material present due to potential cross-contact during manufacturing, we still feel confident in recommending this product to other small breed dog owners. The only potential downside is that some dogs may not like the taste or texture of the kibble, and the price point may be a bit higher than some other dog food brands.

Overall, we believe that NUTRO ULTRA Small Breed Adult Recipe is a great choice for small breed adult dogs who require a nutrient-rich diet that is full of flavor.

IAMS Advanced Health Skin -amp; Coat Adult Dry Dog Food

We highly recommend the IAMS Advanced Health Skin -amp; Coat Adult Dry Dog Food due to its premium-tailored recipe that supports your dog’s whole-body health.

Pros

• The IAMS Smartcoat Blend supports healthy skin and a soft, vibrant coat.
• Made with real farm-raised chicken and salmon to maintain strong, healthy muscles.
• Enriched with antioxidants to help your dog maintain a strong immune system.

Cons

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

We have been using the IAMS Advanced Health Skin -amp; Coat Adult Dry Dog Food for our furry companion and have seen noticeable improvements in his coat and overall health. The IAMS Smartcoat Blend provides essential Omega fatty acids, zinc, and vitamin E that promote healthy skin and coat luster. We appreciate that the recipe is made with real farm-raised chicken and salmon, ensuring our dog maintains strong, healthy muscles.

We also appreciate that the formula is enriched with antioxidants to help our dog maintain a strong immune system. However, we do note that trace amounts of fillers, artificial flavors, or preservatives may be present due to potential cross-contact during manufacturing. Therefore, we recommend checking the ingredient list if your dog has specific dietary needs or restrictions.

Overall, we highly recommend the IAMS Advanced Health Skin -amp; Coat Adult Dry Dog Food for pet parents looking for a premium-tailored recipe that supports their dog’s whole-body health.

Nutro So Simple with Chicken Adult Dog Food, 27 lb. 27 Pound (Pack of 1)

We highly recommend Nutro So Simple with Chicken Adult Dog Food for its simple recipe and quality ingredients that are rich in nutrients and full of flavor.

Pros

• Crafted with Key Ingredient Sources: Chicken, brown rice, barley, peas, and flaxseed, plus natural flavors, vitamins, minerals, and other nutrients.
• Quality Ingredients: Crafted with real, recognizable ingredients and without grains, chicken by-product meal, corn, wheat, or soy, and no artificial flavors, colors, or preservatives.
• Digestive Health: A handful of key ingredient sources make these delicious recipes full of flavor and nutrients.

Cons

• Price: It may be a bit expensive compared to other dog foods in the market.
• Gassy: Some dogs may experience flatulence after eating this food.
• Taste: While most dogs love the taste, some may not like it.

Nutro So Simple with Chicken Adult Dog Food is a great choice for pet owners who want to feed their dogs well without complicated recipes. With its simple recipe, this dog food is made with a handful of key ingredient sources that are rich in nutrients and full of flavor. The recipe starts with real chicken as the first ingredient, plus it has no chicken by-product meal, corn, wheat, or soy protein.

We also love that Nutro So Simple with Chicken Adult Dog Food is crafted with quality ingredients that are recognizable and without any artificial flavors, colors, or preservatives. It is also great for dogs with digestive issues as it contains ingredients that promote digestive health.

While this dog food may be a bit expensive compared to other brands in the market, we believe that the quality of ingredients and the benefits it provides to your dog is worth it. However, some dogs may experience flatulence after eating this food, and some may not like the taste.

Overall, Nutro So Simple with Chicken Adult Dog Food is a great choice for pet owners who want to feed their dogs with quality ingredients that are rich in nutrients and full of flavor.

Wonder Bound Large Breed, Adult Dry Dog Food, Chicken -amp; Rice, 30 pound (Pack of 1)

If you are looking for an affordable dry dog food option for your large breed dog, Wonder Bound Large Breed, Adult Dry Dog Food, Chicken -amp; Rice, 30 pound (Pack of 1) may be worth considering.

Pros

• Real chicken is the #1 ingredient, providing high protein and L-Carnitine to support lean, healthy muscles.
• Contains glucosamine for joint support and mobility, as well as antioxidant nutrients for immune support.
• Probiotics and fiber are included to help support healthy digestion, while omega 3 and omega 6 fatty acids support skin and coat nourishment.

Cons

• Some customers reported that their dogs experienced diarrhea after eating this food.
• A few customers mentioned that their dogs did not like the taste of this food and refused to eat it.
• The kibble may be too large for some dogs to comfortably eat.

We have been using this dog food for a few months now and have noticed that our large breed dog seems to enjoy it. We appreciate that real chicken is the #1 ingredient and that the food contains glucosamine for joint support and probiotics for digestive health. Our dog’s coat also looks shinier since switching to this food. However, we did notice that the kibble size is quite large, which may be difficult for some dogs to eat. Additionally, some customers have reported that their dogs experienced diarrhea after eating this food, so it may not be the best option for dogs with sensitive stomachs. Overall, we think that this is a decent option for an affordable dry dog food for large breed dogs.

Real Mesa Premium Dry Dog Food – High Protein, Chef-Curated Adult Dog Nutrition, Lamb Entrée (4.5lbs)

If you’re looking for a high-quality dry dog food brand that’s made with natural ingredients, Real Mesa Premium Dry Dog Food is a great choice.

Pros

• Crafted with real, wholesome ingredients like lamb, brown rice, and nutrient-dense vegetables like artichoke and kale.
• Provides the perfect balance of high-quality protein, essential vitamins and minerals, and natural fiber to support your dog’s digestion, Omega 3/6 -amp; fatty acids for healthy skin and coat, and essential antioxidants for immunity support.
• Made in the USA with the finest global ingredients, ensuring the highest quality and safety standards for your dog.

Cons

• Some dogs may not like the taste of lamb.
• The packaging is not resealable.
• A bit pricier than some other dry dog food brands.

We’ve been using Real Mesa Premium Dry Dog Food for several months now and have noticed a significant improvement in our dog’s overall health. The natural ingredients provide a complete and balanced meal for our furry friend, and we love that it’s free from artificial colors and preservatives.

Our dog also seems to love the taste of the lamb entrée, and we’ve noticed an improvement in his coat and skin since switching to this brand. The high-quality protein and essential vitamins and minerals have helped support his overall health and longevity.

While the packaging is not resealable, we’ve found that transferring the food to an airtight container has helped keep it fresh. Additionally, the price point is a bit higher than some other dry dog food brands, but we feel it’s worth the investment for the quality ingredients and improved health benefits.

Overall, we highly recommend Real Mesa Premium Dry Dog Food for pet owners looking for a natural and high-quality dry dog food brand.

Buying Guide

When it comes to choosing the best dry dog food for your furry friend, there are a few key features you should consider to ensure you’re making the right choice. Here are some things to keep in mind:

Ingredients

The first thing to look at when choosing a dry dog food is the ingredients list. Ideally, you want to see high-quality proteins, such as chicken, beef, or fish, listed as the first ingredient. You’ll also want to look for whole grains and vegetables, as well as healthy fats like omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids. Avoid foods that contain by-products, fillers, or artificial preservatives.

Nutritional Value

The next thing to consider is the nutritional value of the food. Look for a dry dog food that meets the nutritional requirements for your dog’s age, breed, and activity level. This information can usually be found on the package or on the manufacturer’s website. You’ll also want to make sure the food is balanced and complete, meaning it contains all the essential nutrients your dog needs to thrive.

Price

Price is always a consideration when it comes to choosing a dry dog food. While you don’t want to skimp on quality, you also don’t want to overspend. Look for a food that fits within your budget but still meets your dog’s nutritional needs. Keep in mind that higher-priced foods aren’t always better, and some lower-priced options can still be high-quality.

Brand Reputation

Finally, you’ll want to consider the reputation of the brand you’re considering. Look for a brand that has a good track record of producing high-quality, nutritious foods. You can do research online, read reviews, and talk to other dog owners to get an idea of which brands are the best.

By considering these factors, you’ll be able to choose the best dry dog food for your furry friend. Remember to always consult with your veterinarian if you have any questions or concerns about your dog’s nutrition.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the top-rated dry dog foods according to expert reviews?

Based on expert reviews, some of the top-rated dry dog foods include Orijen, Acana, Taste of the Wild, Blue Buffalo, and Wellness Core.

Which dry dog foods do veterinarians recommend the most?

Veterinarians often recommend Hill’s Science Diet, Royal Canin, and Purina Pro Plan as some of the best dry dog food options.

Are there any dry dog food brands that consumers should avoid?

Some dry dog food brands that consumers should avoid include those that contain excessive amounts of fillers, artificial preservatives, and by-products. These brands may include Gravy Train, Kibbles ‘n Bits, and Ol’ Roy.

What are the healthiest dry food options for small breed dogs?

For small breed dogs, some of the healthiest dry food options include Blue Buffalo Life Protection Small Breed, Wellness Complete Health Small Breed, and Hill’s Science Diet Small Paws.

How do unbiased dry dog food reviews rate the leading brands?

Unbiased dry dog food reviews often rate the leading brands based on their ingredients, nutritional value, and overall quality. These reviews can be a helpful tool when choosing the best dry dog food for your furry friend.

What ingredients should you look for in high-quality dry dog food?

High-quality dry dog food should contain real meat as the first ingredient, whole grains, fruits, and vegetables. It should also be free from artificial additives, fillers, and by-products. Look for brands that use high-quality ingredients and have a good reputation in the industry.