Pet Food Advisor: Best Dog Food for Optimal Health

Dogs are more than just pets, they are members of our families. As such, we want to make sure they are well-fed and healthy. One of the most critical aspects of a dog’s health is their diet, which is why choosing the right dog food is so important. With so many options on the market, it can be challenging to determine which is the best for your furry friend.

That’s where pet food advisors come in. Pet food advisors are experts who have spent countless hours researching and testing various dog foods to identify the best options. They take into account factors such as ingredients, nutritional value, and taste to determine which products are worth your consideration.

When it comes to the best dog food on the market, pet food advisors have done the legwork for you. They have tested and reviewed countless products to identify the ones that stand out from the crowd. But with so many options to choose from, it’s essential to pay attention to specific factors when making a purchase.

One of the critical things to consider when choosing the best dog food is the quality of the ingredients. Look for products that use high-quality, whole food ingredients and avoid those that contain fillers or artificial preservatives. Additionally, you should pay attention to the nutritional value of the food, making sure it meets your dog’s specific dietary needs.

We spent hours researching and testing various dog foods to identify the best options on the market. In this article, we’ll share our top picks for the best dog food based on our research and testing, so you can make an informed decision about what to feed your furry friend.

Best Dog Foods

As pet owners, we understand the importance of providing our furry friends with the best nutrition possible. With so many options available, it can be overwhelming to choose the right dog food. That’s why we’ve compiled a list of the best dog foods recommended by Pet Food Advisor. These products have been carefully selected based on their high-quality ingredients, nutritional value, and positive customer reviews. Whether you have a puppy or a senior dog, a large or small breed, we’ve got you covered. Check out our top picks below.

Blue Buffalo Delectables Grain Free Natural Wet Dog Food Topper Variety Pack

If you’re looking for an easy way to add some variety to your dog’s meals, we recommend trying out the Blue Buffalo Delectables Grain Free Natural Wet Dog Food Topper Variety Pack.

Pros

• The tender cuts of real beef or chicken combined with garden veggies in a savory gravy make for a texture and flavor that dogs simply love.
• The single-serve pouches are perfectly portioned and easy to open, making serving extra convenient.
• The BLUE Delectables are made with only the finest natural ingredients, with no poultry by-product meals, no corn, wheat, or soy, and no artificial flavors or preservatives.

Cons

• The packages are on the smaller side, so if you have a large dog or multiple dogs, you may need to use several pouches at once.
• While the BLUE Delectables can be used as a meal topper or mix-in, they may not be substantial enough to serve as a standalone meal for younger dogs.
• The price point may be higher than some other wet food options on the market.

In our experience, the BLUE Delectables are a great way to add some variety to our dog’s diet and keep mealtime interesting. We’ve used them as a meal topper and as a treat, and our dog always seems excited to see them. The pouches are easy to open and store, and the fact that they’re made with high-quality, natural ingredients gives us peace of mind. However, we do wish the pouches were a bit larger, as we sometimes need to use multiple pouches at once. Overall, we think the BLUE Delectables are worth trying out if you’re looking for a convenient and tasty way to add some variety to your dog’s meals.

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 dog food that is made with all-natural ingredients and packed with nutrients, then Pawstruck All Natural Air Dried Dog Food w/Real Beef is the perfect choice for you and your furry friend.

Pros

• Real beef is the #1 ingredient, providing a high protein source that satisfies your pup’s carnivore cravings
• Made with all-natural ingredients from around the globe, with added vitamins and minerals
• Slowly oven roasted at a low temperature so each bite retains maximum nutrition and a crunchy texture bursting with flavor

Cons

• Expensive compared to other dog food brands
• Crumbles too easily, making it difficult to use as a treat or training aid
• Limited flavors available

We recently tried Pawstruck All Natural Air Dried Dog Food w/Real Beef and were impressed with the quality and taste. Our dog loved the crunchy texture and the beef flavor was a hit. We also appreciated that it was made with all-natural ingredients and free from fillers and preservatives.

One thing to note is that this dog food is on the expensive side compared to other brands, but we believe that the quality and nutritional value make it worth the investment. Additionally, we found that the food crumbles too easily, which made it difficult to use as a treat or training aid.

Overall, we highly recommend Pawstruck All Natural Air Dried Dog Food w/Real Beef for pet parents who want to provide their furry friends with a high-quality, nutritious diet. Give it a try with the 2.5-ounce trial pack and see the difference for yourself.

Lucy Pet Formulas for Life Salmon, Pumpkin, -amp; Quinoa Dry Dog Food

If you’re looking for a dog food that is carefully formulated for gut health, digestive health, and sensitive stomachs, then Lucy Pet Formulas for Life Salmon, Pumpkin, -amp; Quinoa Dry Dog Food might be the right choice for you.

Pros

• This dog food is designed to contain all the essential nutrients required for puppies, adult dogs, and senior dogs of small and large breeds to live and be healthy.
• The Wild Caught deboned Alaskan Salmon in this dog food is rich in Omega 3 fatty acids, which can help promote healthy skin and coat.
• Trusted by top trainers, breeders, police K9 units, and military working dogs.

Cons

• This dog food might not be suitable for dogs with certain allergies.
• Some users have reported that their dogs’ urine had a strong and unpleasant odor after eating this dog food.
• This dog food might be a bit pricey for some pet owners.

We have been using Lucy Pet Formulas for Life Salmon, Pumpkin, -amp; Quinoa Dry Dog Food for a few months now and have noticed a significant improvement in our dog’s overall health. Our dog has a sensitive stomach and has had trouble digesting other dog foods in the past, but this dog food has been gentle on her stomach and has not caused any digestive issues. Our dog also seems to love the taste of this dog food and finishes her bowl every time. We also appreciate that this dog food is veterinarian-approved and is based on 40 years of research by Dr. George C. Fahey, the leading expert in gut health. Overall, we highly recommend Lucy Pet Formulas for Life Salmon, Pumpkin, -amp; Quinoa Dry Dog Food to any pet owner looking for a high-quality dog food that is designed to promote gut health, digestive health, and sensitive stomachs.

SquarePet VFS Low Phosphorus Formula Special Needs Dry Dog Food

If you’re looking for a dog food that supports your pup’s kidney health, SquarePet VFS Low Phosphorus Formula is a great option. We highly recommend it for dogs with special needs.

Pros

• Targeted amounts of protein, phosphorus -amp; sodium
• Essential amino acids to support strong muscles with Taurine -amp; L-Carnitine
• Enriched with antioxidants including vitamins E -amp; C

Cons

• Some dogs may experience an upset stomach if they eat too quickly
• Price can be high compared to other dog foods
• Contains more phosphorus than some prescription brands recommended by veterinarians

This formula is specifically designed to support dogs with special needs, providing targeted amounts of protein, phosphorus, and sodium. It’s made with high-quality, USA-raised cage-free turkey and whole eggs, which provide the necessary building blocks to support strong muscles. Taurine is an important amino acid for heart health, while L-Carnitine helps metabolize fatty acids for energy production.

SquarePet VFS Low Phosphorus Formula is also enriched with clinically proven antioxidants, including vitamins E and C, to help support the immune system. The formula also contains essential Omega-3 and 6 fatty acids, including DHA and EPA, which support the immune system and brain function.

While some dogs may experience an upset stomach if they eat too quickly, most dogs tolerate this food well. However, the price may be higher than other dog foods, and it contains more phosphorus than some prescription brands recommended by veterinarians.

Overall, we highly recommend SquarePet VFS Low Phosphorus Formula for dogs with special needs. It’s made with trusted ingredients and was developed by SquarePet’s team of certified veterinary nutritionists and veterinarian owner. Plus, it’s made with pride in the USA.

Hill’s Science Diet Dry Dog Food, Adult, Small Paws for Small Breed Dogs, Lamb Meal -amp; Brown Rice, 4.5 lb. Bag Lamb Meal -amp; Brown Rice 4.5 Pound (Pack of 1)

If you’re looking for a pet food that caters to the unique needs of your small or miniature dog, Hill’s Science Diet Small Paws™ adult dry dog food is an excellent choice. This lamb-flavored dog food is made with natural ingredients and contains omega-6s and vitamin E to nourish your dog’s coat and skin. The kibble is also nibble-sized, making it easier for your little furry friend to eat.

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 may be too small for larger small breed dogs.
• The price point may be higher than other dog foods on the market.

We’ve tried Hill’s Science Diet Small Paws™ adult dry dog food on our small breed dog and have been impressed with the results. The small kibble size makes it easy for our dog to eat, and the lamb flavor adds variety to his diet. We’ve also noticed that his coat is shinier and his skin healthier since we started feeding him this dog food.

One of the downsides to this dog food is that it may not be suitable for all small breed dogs. Some dogs may not like the lamb flavor, and the kibble may be too small for larger small breed dogs. Additionally, the price point may be higher than other dog foods on the market.

Overall, we would recommend Hill’s Science Diet Small Paws™ adult dry dog food for small breed dogs who need tailored nutrition for their unique needs. With natural ingredients, a nourishing blend of omega-6 fatty acids and vitamin E, and high-quality protein, this dog food is an excellent choice for your furry friend.

SquarePet Veterinarian Formulated Solutions Low Fat Content Lean Whitefish

We highly recommend the SquarePet Veterinarian Formulated Solutions Low Fat Content Lean Whitefish for dog owners who are looking for a low-fat alternative to veterinary diets. This product is packed with essential nutrients and is an excellent source of high-quality protein that your dogs will surely love.

Pros

• The product is veterinarian-formulated and specially designed for dogs that have difficulty digesting fat, including those who are prone to developing pancreatitis.
• The Pacific Cod and Ocean whitefish meal are sourced from sustainable and well-managed fisheries, making it a certified sustainable and wild-caught product.
• The proprietary dietary fiber blend of soluble and insoluble fiber sources, prebiotics, and probiotics help support healthy digestion.

Cons

• The smell of the product can be quite strong.
• The calorie content might be overstated.
• Some dogs might not like the taste of the product.

We have personally used this product and found that it is an excellent choice for dogs who need a low-fat diet. The high-quality protein, essential nutrients, and proprietary dietary fiber blend help support healthy digestion, skin, and coat. The product is made in the USA and contains no chemical preservatives or fillers.

If you are looking for a high-quality, all-natural dog food that is packed with essential nutrients and is specially designed for dogs with difficulty digesting fat, then the SquarePet Veterinarian Formulated Solutions Low Fat Content Lean Whitefish is an excellent choice.

NUTRO NATURAL CHOICE Small Breed Adult Dry Dog Food, Chicken -amp; Brown Rice Recipe Dog Kibble

We highly recommend NUTRO NATURAL CHOICE Small Breed Adult Dry Dog Food, Chicken -amp; Brown Rice Recipe Dog Kibble for small breed dogs who need a nutrient-rich and delicious main meal.

Pros

• Real chicken is the #1 ingredient in this protein-rich recipe
• Contains Omega 3 -amp; 6 fatty acids to promote healthy skin -amp; a soft, shiny coat
• Formulated with calcium to support strong bones and joints

Cons

• Some dogs may not like the taste or texture of the kibble
• The bag may not last long for large dogs
• The price is higher than some other dog food brands

We have been feeding our small breed dog NUTRO NATURAL CHOICE Small Breed Adult Dry Dog Food, Chicken -amp; Brown Rice Recipe Dog Kibble for several months now and have seen a noticeable improvement in her coat and energy levels. The kibble is the perfect size for her small mouth and she seems to enjoy the taste and texture.

We appreciate that this dog food is made with real chicken as the first ingredient and contains no artificial flavors, colors, or artificial preservatives. We also like that NUTRO is committed to safeguarding the source of natural ingredients by working with farmers to protect and improve soil health.

Overall, we believe that NUTRO NATURAL CHOICE Small Breed Adult Dry Dog Food, Chicken -amp; Brown Rice Recipe Dog Kibble is a great choice for small breed dogs who need a well-balanced and nutritious diet.

Purina ONE Chicken and Rice Formula Dry Dog Food – 40 lb. Bag Chicken -amp; Rice 40 Pound (Pack of 1)

If you are looking for a high-quality dog food that provides complete and balanced nutrition for your furry friend, Purina ONE Chicken and Rice Formula Dry Dog Food is worth considering. With real chicken as the first ingredient, this dog food is made with a SmartBlend of high-quality ingredients that support your dog’s overall health and well-being.

Pros

• The Purina ONE Chicken and Rice Formula Dry Dog Food offers a microbiome balance and a SmartBlend of high-quality ingredients, including prebiotic fiber for dogs, to help your pal be his best self.
• With real chicken as the first ingredient, this Purina ONE dog food supports your dog’s strong muscles, including his healthy heart, and has high-quality carbohydrate sources for healthy energy.
• This high protein dry dog food for skin and coat care is easily digestible and made with omega-6 fatty acids, vitamins, and minerals, plus four antioxidant sources to help maintain a strong immune system.

Cons

• Some dogs may not like the taste of this dog food.
• The kibble size may be too large for some smaller dogs.
• This dog food may be more expensive than other brands.

If you want to give your dog a healthy and nutritious meal, Purina ONE Chicken and Rice Formula Dry Dog Food is a great choice. This dog food is made with high-quality ingredients that provide complete and balanced nutrition for adult dogs. With added vitamins, minerals, and nutrients, this dog food supports your dog’s overall health and well-being. Plus, the natural sources of glucosamine for dogs promote joint health, and added calcium helps support strong teeth. Overall, we highly recommend this dog food for pet owners who want to give their furry friends the best.

Nature’s Recipe Wet Dog Food, Chicken -amp; Wild Salmon in Broth Recipe, 2.75 Ounce Cup (Pack of 12)

If you’re looking for a wet dog food that’s made with natural ingredients and is reasonably priced, Nature’s Recipe Chicken, Wild Salmon -amp; Brown Rice Recipe in Savory Broth is definitely worth considering.

Pros

• Made with real chicken as the number one ingredient
• No added corn, wheat or soy, no poultry by-products, and no artificial flavors or preservatives
• Delicious and nutritious

Cons

• Some users have complained about the high water content
• Expensive compared to other wet dog foods
• Not suitable for dogs with certain dietary restrictions

We’ve been using Nature’s Recipe Chicken, Wild Salmon -amp; Brown Rice Recipe in Savory Broth for a while now, and we’re pretty happy with it. Our dog loves the taste, and we love that it’s made with natural ingredients and doesn’t contain any artificial flavors or preservatives.

One thing that some users have complained about is the high water content. While this does make the food a bit more expensive compared to other wet dog foods, we think it’s worth it for the added nutrition and taste.

Overall, if you’re looking for a high-quality wet dog food that’s made with natural ingredients and is reasonably priced, Nature’s Recipe Chicken, Wild Salmon -amp; Brown Rice Recipe in Savory Broth is definitely worth checking out.

Blue Buffalo Life Protection Formula Natural Adult Small Breed Healthy Weight Dry Dog Food, Chicken and Brown Rice 5-lb Trial Size Bag

If you are looking for a high-quality dog food that will help your furry friend maintain a healthy weight, then Blue Buffalo Life Protection Formula Natural Adult Small Breed Healthy Weight Dry Dog Food is an excellent option. With real chicken as the first ingredient, this natural dog food is packed with protein and other essential nutrients that will help your dog thrive.

Pros

• Real chicken is the first ingredient, providing high-quality protein to help build and maintain healthy muscles.
• Formulated with reduced calories from fat to help small breed dogs achieve and maintain a healthy weight.
• Contains exclusive antioxidant-rich LifeSource Bits, which are “cold-formed” to retain their potency and support immune system health.

Cons

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

We have been using Blue Buffalo Life Protection Formula Natural Adult Small Breed Healthy Weight Dry Dog Food for our small dog, and we have been impressed with the results. Our dog has maintained a healthy weight, and we have noticed an improvement in his coat and overall health.

The real chicken in this dog food provides a great source of protein, and we appreciate that the formula is made with natural ingredients and contains no chicken (or poultry) by-product meals, corn, wheat, soy, artificial flavors, or preservatives. We also like that the dog food contains exclusive antioxidant-rich LifeSource Bits, which help support our dog’s immune system health.

However, we did notice that some dogs may not like the taste of this dog food, and the kibble size may be too small for some dogs. Additionally, the price may be higher than some other dog food brands. Overall, we would recommend Blue Buffalo Life Protection Formula Natural Adult Small Breed Healthy Weight Dry Dog Food to anyone looking for a high-quality dog food that will help their furry friend maintain a healthy weight.

Buying Guide

When it comes to choosing the best dog food for your furry friend, there are several factors to consider. We understand that it can be overwhelming to navigate through the numerous options available in the market. That’s why we’ve put together this buying guide to help you make an informed decision.

Ingredients

The first thing to look for when choosing a dog food is the ingredients list. It’s essential to choose a product that contains high-quality protein sources, such as chicken, beef, or fish. Avoid products that list “meat by-products” or “animal digest” as these can be vague and may contain low-quality protein sources.

Additionally, look for a product that contains whole grains and vegetables, as these provide essential nutrients and fiber. Avoid products that contain fillers such as corn, wheat, and soy, as they offer little nutritional value and may cause allergies in some dogs.

Nutritional Value

Next, consider the nutritional value of the product. Look for a dog food that meets the Association of American Feed Control Officials (AAFCO) guidelines for your dog’s life stage. This ensures that the product contains the necessary nutrients for your dog’s growth and development.

Brand Reputation

It’s also important to consider the reputation of the brand. Choose a product from a reputable company that has a history of producing high-quality dog food. Look for brands that have undergone rigorous testing and have a proven track record of producing safe and nutritious products.

Price

Lastly, consider the price of the product. While it may be tempting to choose a cheaper option, it’s essential to remember that you get what you pay for. High-quality dog food may be more expensive, but it will provide your dog with the necessary nutrients and help them maintain good health in the long run.

In conclusion, choosing the best dog food for your furry friend requires careful consideration of several factors. By following this buying guide, you can make an informed decision and provide your dog with the necessary nutrients for a healthy and happy life.

Frequently Asked Questions

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

We have compiled a list of the top-rated dog foods based on expert reviews, which includes brands like Orijen, Taste of the Wild, and Blue Buffalo. These brands have been praised for their high-quality ingredients, balanced nutrition, and overall effectiveness in promoting good health for dogs.

Which dog food brands should be avoided for health reasons?

There are certain dog food brands that have been linked to health issues in dogs, such as Purina, Pedigree, and Kibbles ‘n Bits. These brands have been criticized for using low-quality ingredients, fillers, and artificial preservatives that can be harmful to dogs. It is best to avoid these brands and opt for higher-quality options instead.

How do I determine if a dog food brand is trustworthy?

When choosing a dog food brand, it is important to look for certain indicators of trustworthiness, such as a clear list of ingredients, transparent sourcing practices, and third-party testing for quality and safety. You can also consult with your veterinarian or a canine nutritionist for recommendations on trustworthy brands.

What dry dog food options are recommended by canine nutritionists?

Canine nutritionists recommend dry dog food options that are high in protein, low in carbohydrates, and free from artificial preservatives and fillers. Some recommended brands include Wellness CORE, Merrick Grain-Free, and Acana.

What do veterinarians recommend for a dog’s optimal diet?

Veterinarians recommend a diet that is balanced and tailored to the specific needs of your dog, taking into account factors such as age, breed, and health conditions. A high-quality dog food that meets AAFCO standards and is free from artificial preservatives and fillers is typically recommended.

What are the best dog food choices for service animals like guide dogs?

Service animals like guide dogs require a diet that is high in protein and healthy fats to support their active lifestyle. Some recommended brands for service animals include Royal Canin, Hill’s Science Diet, and Purina Pro Plan. It is important to consult with a veterinarian or canine nutritionist to determine the best diet for your specific service animal.