Dog Food Advisor: The Best Dry Dog Food for Your Furry Friend

Dry dog food is a convenient and popular choice for pet owners who want to provide their furry friends with complete and balanced nutrition. Unlike wet food, dry dog food can be stored for a long time without spoiling, making it an ideal option for pet owners who want to stock up on pet food. Additionally, dry dog food is often less expensive than wet food and can be easier to feed, as it doesn’t require refrigeration or special preparation.

When it comes to choosing the best dry dog food for your pet, there are several factors to consider. One of the most important things to look for is a high-quality protein source, such as chicken, beef, or fish. Dogs are primarily carnivores, so their diet should consist mostly of animal protein. Additionally, it’s important to choose a dry dog food that contains a balanced mix of carbohydrates, fats, vitamins, and minerals to meet your pet’s nutritional needs.

At Dog Food Advisor, we understand the importance of choosing the right dry dog food for your pet. That’s why we’ve spent countless hours researching and testing different brands to identify the best options on the market. In this article, we’ll be discussing the top-rated dry dog foods on our list and what makes them stand out from the competition. We’ll also be sharing some tips on what to look for when choosing a dry dog food, so you can make an informed decision for your furry friend.

Best Dry Dog Food

We know how important it is to feed our furry friends the best possible food. That’s why we’ve scoured the market to bring you the top dry dog food options recommended by Dog Food Advisor. Our list includes a variety of options to meet the needs of different breeds and dietary requirements. Whether you’re looking for high-quality protein, grain-free options, or something to support your dog’s joint health, we’ve got you covered. Check out our top picks below.

Rachael Ray Nutrish Premium Natural Dry Dog Food, Real Beef, Pea, -amp; Brown Rice Recipe, 40 Pound Bag (Packaging May Vary)

We highly recommend purchasing the Rachael Ray Nutrish Premium Natural Dry Dog Food, Real Beef, Pea, -amp; Brown Rice Recipe, 40 Pound Bag (Packaging May Vary) for your furry friend. This dog food is packed with nutritious ingredients that promote healthy digestion, lean muscle mass, and a healthy mind and body.

Pros

• The number one ingredient is real beef, which supports healthy organs and maintains lean muscle mass.
• The Whole Health Blend includes omega-3 fatty acids from fish oil to support an active mind, antioxidants to support a healthy body, and whole grains to maintain balanced energy levels.
• No fillers, artificial flavors, or artificial preservatives are included in this dog food.

Cons

• The kibble size may be too large for smaller dogs.
• Some dogs may not like the taste of the real beef flavor.
• This dog food may not be suitable for dogs with certain dietary restrictions.

Rachael Ray Nutrish dog food has been a great addition to our dog’s diet. The real beef flavor is a hit with our pup and we love that the number one ingredient is a high-quality protein source. The Whole Health Blend is also a great feature, as it provides a well-rounded mix of nutrients to support our dog’s overall health.

One thing to note is that the kibble size may be too large for smaller dogs, so it’s important to monitor your dog while they eat to ensure they don’t choke or have difficulty chewing. Additionally, while our dog loves the real beef flavor, some dogs may not enjoy it as much, so it may be worth trying a smaller bag before committing to the 40-pound option.

Overall, we highly recommend the Rachael Ray Nutrish Premium Natural Dry Dog Food, Real Beef, Pea, -amp; Brown Rice Recipe, 40 Pound Bag (Packaging May Vary) for its high-quality ingredients, Whole Health Blend, and lack of fillers and artificial additives. Plus, the fact that a portion of the proceeds goes to The Rachael Ray Foundation, which helps animals in need, makes this purchase even more worthwhile.

Pawstruck All Natural Air Dried Dog Food w/Real Beef – Grain Free, Made in USA, Non-GMO -amp; Vet Recommended – High Protein Limited Ingredient Full-Feed – for All Breeds -amp; Ages – 2.5oz Trial Bag Beef 2.5 Ounce (Pack of 1)

If you’re looking for a high-quality, all-natural dog food that your furry friend will love, you should definitely give Pawstruck All Natural Air Dried Dog Food a try.

Pros

• Real beef is the #1 ingredient
• Made in the USA with all-natural ingredients
• Vet recommended for all life stages

Cons

• Expensive compared to other dog foods
• Some dogs may not like the taste or texture
• The food can crumble easily, making it difficult to serve

We recently tried this dog food with our own pups and were impressed with the quality and taste. The real beef flavor was a hit with our dogs, and we appreciated that it was made with all-natural ingredients.

One thing to note is that this dog food is more expensive than some other options on the market. However, we believe that the quality of the ingredients and the nutrition provided are worth the extra cost.

Another potential downside is that some dogs may not like the taste or texture of this food. Our dogs had no issues with it, but we’ve heard from other pet owners that their dogs were picky about it.

Finally, we found that the food can crumble easily, which made it difficult to serve at times. However, this is a minor issue and didn’t detract from our overall positive experience with the product.

Overall, we highly recommend Pawstruck All Natural Air Dried Dog Food for pet owners looking for a high-quality, all-natural dog food that their furry friends will love.

A Better Treat Salmon Dry Dog Food

If you’re looking for a dog food that’s packed with protein and made with whole food ingredients, then A Better Treat Salmon Dry Dog Food might just be the perfect option for you and your furry friend.

Pros

• The high protein content in this kibble helps dogs develop strong muscles and an immune system.
• The freeze-dried raw pieces of wild-caught salmon and broccoli add extra nutrients such as Omega-3 and fiber.
• The kibble is formulated by a Ph.D. in Animal Nutrition and is AAFCO approved, ensuring that your dog is getting a complete and balanced meal.

Cons

• The salmon chunks are few and far between, so don’t expect your dog to be getting a lot of them in each bite.
• The kibble is quite hard, so it may not be suitable for dogs with dental issues.
• The price point may be a bit high for some pet owners.

We recently tried A Better Treat Salmon Dry Dog Food for our furry friend and were impressed with the quality of the ingredients and the nutritional value of the kibble. The freeze-dried raw pieces of salmon and broccoli were a nice touch and added extra nutrients to the meal. We also appreciated that the kibble was formulated by a Ph.D. in Animal Nutrition and was AAFCO approved, giving us peace of mind that our dog was getting a complete and balanced meal.

However, we did notice that the salmon chunks were few and far between, so our dog wasn’t getting a lot of them in each bite. Additionally, the kibble was quite hard, so it may not be suitable for dogs with dental issues. Finally, the price point may be a bit high for some pet owners, so it’s worth considering whether the nutritional benefits are worth the extra cost.

Overall, we would recommend A Better Treat Salmon Dry Dog Food to pet owners looking for a high-quality, protein-packed kibble made with whole food ingredients.

Purina ONE Natural High Protein Dry Dog Food Dry True Instinct with Real Beef and Salmon With Bone Broth and Added Vitamins, Minerals and Nutrients – 27.5 lb. Bag High Protein Beef -amp; Salmon 27.5 Pound (Pack of 1)

If you’re looking for a high-quality dry dog food that is made with real beef and salmon, then Purina ONE Natural High Protein Dry Dog Food is definitely worth considering. With added vitamins, minerals, and nutrients, this dry dog food provides complete and balanced nutrition for your furry friend.

Pros

• Made with real beef as the number 1 ingredient
• Supplies 32% protein for strong muscles, including a healthy heart
• Contains natural sources of glucosamine to help support joint health for dogs

Cons

• Some dogs might find the kibble too big
• A bit pricey compared to other dog food brands
• Not suitable for puppies, pregnant or nursing dogs

We’ve been using Purina ONE Natural High Protein Dry Dog Food for a few months now, and we’re really impressed with it. The first thing we noticed was the high-quality ingredients – real beef as the number 1 ingredient and salmon for added protein. Our dog loves the taste, and we’ve noticed an improvement in his coat and overall health since we switched to this food.

One thing to note is that the kibble is a bit bigger than some other dog food brands, so if you have a small dog or one with dental issues, you might want to consider a different brand. Also, while this is a high-quality dog food, it is a bit on the pricey side compared to other brands. However, we think the quality of the ingredients justifies the cost.

Overall, we highly recommend Purina ONE Natural High Protein Dry Dog Food. It’s a great choice for adult dogs who need high-quality protein and balanced nutrition.

Blue Buffalo Dog Food, Life Protection Formula, Natural Beef -amp; Brown Rice Flavor, Adult Dry Dog Food, 30 lb Bag Beef -amp; Brown Rice 3.75 Gallon (Pack of 1)

If you’re looking for a high-quality dog food that is made with natural ingredients, then Blue Buffalo Dog Food, Life Protection Formula, Natural Beef -amp; Brown Rice Flavor, Adult Dry Dog Food might be the right choice for you and your furry friend.

Pros

• The primary ingredient is real beef, which is great for promoting strong muscles in your dog.
• The formula is made with premium ingredients and contains no poultry by-products, corn, wheat or soy.
• The LifeSource Bits in the formula contain a precise blend of antioxidants, vitamins and minerals to support immune system health, life stage needs and a healthy oxidative balance.

Cons

• Some dogs might not like the flavor of the food.
• The food might be a bit expensive compared to other brands.
• The packaging might not be as sturdy as some pet owners would prefer.

We’ve been using Blue Buffalo Dog Food, Life Protection Formula, Natural Beef -amp; Brown Rice Flavor, Adult Dry Dog Food for a few weeks now, and we’re impressed with the results. Our dog seems to have more energy and his coat looks shinier and healthier than before. We also appreciate that the formula is made with natural ingredients and contains no artificial flavors or preservatives.

One thing to note is that some dogs might not like the flavor of the food. We haven’t had any issues with our dog, but we’ve heard from other pet owners that their dogs didn’t seem to enjoy the taste. Additionally, the food might be a bit expensive compared to other brands, so it might not be the best option for pet owners on a tight budget. Lastly, the packaging might not be as sturdy as some pet owners would prefer, so it’s important to handle the bag carefully to avoid any spills or tears.

Overall, we would recommend Blue Buffalo Dog Food, Life Protection Formula, Natural Beef -amp; Brown Rice Flavor, Adult Dry Dog Food to pet owners who are looking for a high-quality dog food that is made with natural ingredients and contains no artificial flavors or preservatives.

Hill’s Science Diet Dry Dog Food, Adult, Small Paws for Small Breed Dogs, Lamb Meal -amp; Brown Rice, 4.5 lb. Bag

If you have a small breed dog, Hill’s Science Diet Small Paws™ adult dry dog food might be the perfect choice for you. Here’s what we think about it:

Pros

• The small kibble size is perfect for little mouths and helps support healthy digestion.
• The blend of omega-6 fatty acids and vitamin E helps keep your dog’s skin and coat healthy.
• The high-quality protein helps maintain lean muscle in small dogs.

Cons

• Some dogs might not like the lamb flavor.
• The kibble might be too small for larger small breed dogs.
• The price point might be higher than other dog foods.

We’ve been using Hill’s Science Diet Small Paws™ adult dry dog food for a few weeks now and we’re impressed with the results. Our small breed dog loves the small kibble size and we’ve noticed an improvement in her digestion since switching to this food. Her coat is also looking shinier and healthier. The only downside is that she’s not a huge fan of the lamb flavor, but that’s just a matter of personal preference.

Overall, we would recommend Hill’s Science Diet Small Paws™ adult dry dog food to other small breed dog owners. It might be a bit pricier than other dog foods, but the quality ingredients and tailored nutrition make it worth it in our opinion.

Purina Beneful Healthy Weight Dry Dog Food With Farm-Raised Chicken

If you’re looking for a dog food that helps maintain a healthy weight while still providing great taste and nutrition, Purina Beneful Healthy Weight Dry Dog Food with Farm-Raised Chicken is a great option.

Pros

• Made with real U.S. farm-raised chicken as the number one ingredient
• Contains 25g of protein per cup to support strong, lean muscles
• Includes 23 essential vitamins and minerals for overall health

Cons

• Some dogs may not enjoy the taste or texture of the kibble
• The product may be more expensive than other dog food brands
• The packaging may not be as durable as other brands

We recently tried Purina Beneful Healthy Weight Dry Dog Food with Farm-Raised Chicken for our dog who needed to lose a few pounds. We were impressed with the quality of the ingredients and the fact that there are no artificial preservatives or flavors. Our dog seemed to enjoy the taste and texture of the kibble, and we noticed that she had more energy and a healthier coat after eating it for a few weeks.

One thing to keep in mind is that some dogs may not enjoy the taste or texture of the kibble, so it’s important to monitor your dog’s reaction and adjust accordingly. Additionally, the product may be more expensive than other dog food brands, but we believe that the quality of the ingredients and the health benefits make it worth the cost. Finally, the packaging may not be as durable as other brands, so it’s important to store the product in a cool, dry place to ensure freshness.

Overall, we highly recommend Purina Beneful Healthy Weight Dry Dog Food with Farm-Raised Chicken for any dog owners looking for a high-quality, nutritious dog food that can help maintain a healthy weight.

WAG Dry Dog Food, Salmon and Brown Rice, 30 lb Bag (Pack of 1)

If you’re looking for a high-quality dry dog food that’s both affordable and nutritious, WAG’s Salmon and Brown Rice Dog Food is a great option to consider.

Pros

• Real meat first, with sustainably raised American salmon as the #1 ingredient
• Contains no by-product meal, corn, wheat, soy, artificial colors, flavors, or preservatives
• Supports bone and tooth health with added calcium and phosphorus plus guaranteed glucosamine for joints; added antioxidants and DHA for immune system and brain function support

Cons

• May cause dietary upsets if not gradually transitioned
• Inconsistency in pricing
• Some dogs may not like the taste

We’ve been using WAG’s Salmon and Brown Rice Dog Food for a few months now, and we’re impressed with the results. Our dog loves the taste and has experienced no digestive issues since switching to this brand.

One of the best things about this dog food is that it’s made with real meat as the first ingredient. We appreciate that it doesn’t contain any by-product meal, corn, wheat, soy, or artificial additives. Plus, the added calcium, phosphorus, glucosamine, antioxidants, and DHA make it a well-rounded meal that supports our dog’s overall health.

However, it’s important to note that transitioning to this food should be done gradually to avoid any upset stomachs. Additionally, the price can be inconsistent, so it’s worth keeping an eye on. And while our dog loves the taste, some dogs may not be as enthusiastic.

Overall, we highly recommend WAG’s Salmon and Brown Rice Dog Food for its affordability, quality ingredients, and nutritional value.

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 purchasing Stella -amp; Chewy’s Wild Red Dry Dog Food Raw Blend High Protein Grain -amp; Legume Free Red Meat Recipe, as it provides dogs with the protein-rich taste they crave while delivering the nutrition they need.

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 enjoy the taste of the raw chunks
• The price point may be higher than other dry dog food options
• The smaller bag size may not be ideal for larger dogs or those who consume more food

We recently tried Stella -amp; Chewy’s Wild Red Dry Dog Food Raw Blend High Protein Grain -amp; Legume Free Red Meat Recipe and were impressed with the quality of the ingredients and the nutrition it provided for our dogs. The protein-rich taste was evident in every bite, and the freeze-dried raw coating and chunks added an extra layer of flavor and nutrition.

One of the standout features of this dog food is the variety of animal protein sources included in the Red Meat Recipe. With six different sources of animal protein, including beef, pork, lamb, bison, venison, and goat, dogs are able to enjoy a diverse and nutritious diet. Additionally, the recipe includes whole prey ingredients, which mimic a dog’s natural diet in the wild and promote overall health and well-being.

While some dogs may not enjoy the taste of the raw chunks, we found that our dogs were eager to eat every last bite. However, the price point may be higher than other dry dog food options, and the smaller bag size may not be ideal for larger dogs or those who consume more food. Overall, we highly recommend Stella -amp; Chewy’s Wild Red Dry Dog Food Raw Blend High Protein Grain -amp; Legume Free Red Meat Recipe for its quality ingredients, nutrition, and protein-rich taste.

IAMS Lamb -amp; Rice Dry Dog Food

We highly recommend IAMS Lamb -amp; Rice Dry Dog Food for its quality ingredients and superb nutritional value.

Pros

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

Cons

• Some dogs may not like the taste
• Not suitable for dogs with grain allergies
• May cause upset stomach if switched abruptly from another brand

We recently switched our dog to IAMS Lamb -amp; Rice Dry Dog Food and have seen a significant improvement in his overall health and energy levels. The real, premium lamb as the first ingredient gives us peace of mind knowing that we are providing him with high-quality protein. The tailored blend of wholesome fibers and prebiotics has also improved his digestion and bowel movements.

One thing to note is that some dogs may not like the taste of this dog food, so it’s important to introduce it gradually and monitor their reaction. Additionally, if your dog has grain allergies, this product may not be suitable for them as it contains rice. Finally, if you’re switching from another brand, it’s important to do so gradually to avoid any upset stomachs.

Overall, we highly recommend IAMS Lamb -amp; Rice Dry Dog Food for its quality ingredients and superb nutritional value. It’s a great option for any dog owner looking to provide their furry friend with a healthy and balanced diet.

Buying Guide

When it comes to choosing the best dry dog food for your furry friend, there are a few things to keep in mind. Here are some features to consider when selecting the right product:

Ingredients

Take a close look at the ingredients list on the dog food packaging. Look for high-quality protein sources like chicken, beef, or fish. Avoid products that list “meat by-products” or “animal digest” as these can contain low-quality proteins. Also, check for whole grains, vegetables, and fruits, which provide essential vitamins and minerals.

Nutritional Value

Check the nutritional value of the dry dog food. Look for products that meet the Association of American Feed Control Officials (AAFCO) guidelines. This ensures that the product meets the minimum nutritional requirements for your dog’s age, breed, and size.

Brand Reputation

Research the brand reputation before making a purchase. Look for brands that have a good track record of producing high-quality products. You can also check online reviews and ratings from other pet owners.

Price

Price can be a significant factor when choosing the best dry dog food. While it’s essential to stay within your budget, don’t compromise on quality. Higher-priced products may contain better quality ingredients and provide better nutrition for your dog.

Special Dietary Needs

If your dog has any special dietary needs, consult with your veterinarian before making a purchase. Some dogs may require specific diets due to allergies, medical conditions, or age-related issues.

By considering these factors, you can choose the best dry dog food for your furry friend. Remember to always read the labels carefully and consult with your veterinarian if you have any concerns.

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 Acana, Orijen, Taste of the Wild, Blue Buffalo, and Wellness. These brands are known for their high-quality ingredients and balanced nutrition.

Which brands of dry dog food are considered the healthiest for dogs?

Brands that are considered the healthiest for dogs include those that use high-quality, whole food ingredients, and avoid fillers, by-products, and artificial additives. Some of the top brands in this category include Orijen, Acana, Wellness, and Blue Buffalo.

What dry dog food do veterinarians recommend most?

Veterinarians may recommend different brands of dry dog food depending on the specific needs of the dog. However, some of the most commonly recommended brands include Hill’s Science Diet, Royal Canin, and Purina Pro Plan.

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

Consumers should avoid dry dog food brands that use low-quality ingredients, such as fillers, by-products, and artificial additives. Some of the worst offenders in this category include Ol’ Roy, Kibbles ‘n Bits, and Beneful.

What is the best dry dog food for small breed dogs?

Small breed dogs have different nutritional needs than larger dogs, so it’s important to choose a dry dog food that is specifically formulated for their needs. Some of the best dry dog food brands for small breed dogs include Wellness Small Breed Complete Health, Blue Buffalo Life Protection Small Breed, and Merrick Lil’ Plates.

What is the best dry dog food for large breed dogs?

Large breed dogs also have specific nutritional needs, so it’s important to choose a dry dog food that is formulated for their size. Some of the best dry dog food brands for large breed dogs include Blue Buffalo Life Protection Large Breed, Hill’s Science Diet Large Breed, and Purina Pro Plan Large Breed.