Pet parents often inquire, “What’s the best dry dog food on the market?” Unfortunately, navigating the landscape of conflicting advice, deceptive marketing, and many options can be daunting.
We’ve meticulously compiled a definitive list to tackle this challenge, merging our editors’ top picks with insights from esteemed pet food designers, nutritionists, and veterinarians.
This page unveils the best dry dog foods available and addresses the most frequently asked questions surrounding the quest for premium kibbles.
Best Dry Dog Food
Open Farm Grass Fed Beef
Open Farm Grass Fed Beef
Elevate your dog’s diet with Open Farm Grass Fed Beef! Ethically sourced and grain-free, it offers premium nutrition with 36% protein.
Trusted by happy customers, it’s a must-try for your furry companion!
Pros
Ethically sourced beef
Grain-free formulation
High protein content (36%)
Balanced fat-to-protein ratio (48%)
Positive customer reviews
Cons
Higher price point
Limited availability
A transition period may be needed
Dry texture may not suit all dogs
Among the 21 dry recipes scrutinized in our comprehensive review of the Open Farm product line, Grass Fed Beef stands out.
This particular Open Farm concoction derives its primary source of animal protein from beef. An analysis of dry matter labeling unveils a composition of 36% protein, 18% fat, and an estimated 38% carbs… resulting in a fat-to-protein ratio hovering around 48%.
A prime provider of superior nutrition. It is highly recommended.
Delve into our assessment of the complete Open Farm Grain-Free Dog Food (Dry) assortment here.
- Key Ingredients: Ethically sourced beef, ocean whitefish meal, field peas, sweet potato, beef livers
- Consistency: Dry
- Category: Grain-free
- Protein Content: 36%
Excerpt from a customer review…
“Lola has grappled with various food allergies since her puppy days, and it was a journey of trial and error until we stumbled upon Open Farm. She adores the food, and her health and happiness are palpable. I admire the sourcing and quality of ingredients in the food.”
Wellness Complete Health Dry Dog Food
Wellness Complete Health Dry Dog Food
Wellness Complete Health Dry Dog Food delivers top-quality nutrition with protein-rich deboned chicken.
Its balanced formula, including grains, ensures optimal health for your dog.
Trusted by satisfied customers, it’s a smart choice for your pet’s well-being!
Pros
Protein from deboned chicken and chicken meal
Balanced fat-to-protein ratio (50%)
Grain-inclusive formula
Stomach-friendly and high-quality ingredients
Cons
Relatively higher carbohydrate content
Limited availability
Among the 13 dry recipes scrutinized in our Wellness Complete Health product line review, Adult Deboned Chicken and Oatmeal shines.
This Wellness Complete Health blend derives its primary meat protein from chicken and chicken meal. Our dry matter label analysis unveils a composition of 27% protein, 13% fat, and an estimated 52% carbs… resulting in a fat-to-protein ratio hovering around 50%.
A top-notch grain-inclusive option in the kibble market. It is highly recommended.
Discover our full Wellness Complete Health Dog Food (Dry) lineup evaluation here.
- Key Ingredients: Deboned chicken, chicken meal, oatmeal, ground barley, peas
- Consistency: Dry
- Type: Grain-inclusive
- Protein Content: 27%
Excerpt from a customer review…
“I have three dogs, all different breeds and sizes. They all love this food; it has caused no stomach issues… After discussing this with our awesome Veterinarian, she recommended Wellness, and our Goldendoodle hasn’t had any stomach issues in 5 years. The stomach issues brought us to Wellness, but the quality ingredients kept us loyal.”
Nature’s Logic Dry Dog Food
Nature’s Logic Dry Dog Food
Nature’s Logic Dry Dog Food is the ultimate choice for your pet!
Packed with chicken meal and balanced nutrition, it meets AAFCO standards and enhances skin and coat health.
Trust in Nature’s Logic for happy, healthy pets!
Pros
Chicken meal as primary protein source
Balanced fat-to-protein ratio (42%)
Grain-inclusive formula
Meets AAFCO nutrient standards through live feeding trials
Cons
Higher carbohydrate content
Limited availability
Nature’s Logic Canine Chicken Meal Feast is one of 11 dry recipes examined in our Nature’s Logic product line assessment.
This Nature’s Logic formula relies primarily on chicken meal for its meat protein. Our dry matter label analysis uncovers a composition of 40% protein, 17% fat, and approximately 36% carbs… resulting in a fat-to-protein ratio of about 42%.
Nature’s Logic stands out by meeting AAFCO nutrient standards through live feeding trials. It is highly recommended.
Discover our complete evaluation of the Nature’s Logic Dog Food (Dry) range here
- Key Ingredients: Chicken meal, millet, chicken fat, pumpkin seed, yeast culture
- Consistency: Dry
- Type: Grain-inclusive
- Protein Content: 40%
Excerpt from a customer review…
“I have been feeding this for 3 months, and their skin and coats have cleared up nicely. No more greasy, smelly fur babies. Plus, no more pills daily. Yes, it’s a little more expensive, but I’m saving on vet bills. Finding a grain and potato-free kibble is nearly impossible, but I hit a home run here.”
Blue Buffalo Life Protection Dry
Blue Buffalo Life Protection Dry
Elevate your dog’s diet with Blue Buffalo Life Protection Dry!
It is packed with protein from chicken and chicken meal and boasts a balanced fat-to-protein ratio of 58%.
I recommended it, as it’s a top choice for quality and nutrition.
Pros
Chicken and chicken meal as primary protein sources
Balanced fat-to-protein ratio (58%)
Grain-inclusive formula
Highly recommended by The Advisor
Cons
Higher carbohydrate content
Limited availability
Blue Buffalo Life Protection Chicken and Rice is one of 21 kibble recipes reviewed in our Blue Buffalo Life Protection line analysis.
This Life Protection formula relies mainly on chicken and chicken meal for animal protein. Our dry matter label analysis uncovers a composition of 27% protein, 16% fat, and about 50% carbs… resulting in a fat-to-protein ratio of about 58%.
A highly-rated, grain-inclusive option. One of The top recommendations.
Discover our full assessment of the Blue Buffalo Dog Food range here
- Key Ingredients: Deboned chicken, chicken meal, brown rice, barley, oatmeal
- Consistency: Dry
- Type: Grain-inclusive
- Protein Content: 27%
Excerpt from a customer review…
“My dog is a very picky eater with a sensitive stomach (a chocolate heeler), and this food has done wonders for him. He’s finally eating as much as he should without stomach issues, making him almost a brand-new dog. I tried a few different foods with him, but this gave me the best results…”
And If your dog has a sensitive stomach, you can explore The Doggo Bio’s comprehensive guide to the best foods for sensitive stomachs.
Purina Pro Plan Focus Dog Food
Purina Pro Plan Focus Dog Food
Elevate your dog’s diet with Purina Pro Plan Focus Dog Food.
Featuring fresh chicken and formulated by veterinary experts, it offers balanced nutrition with a 46% fat-to-protein ratio.
Trusted by professionals and affordable, it’s the perfect choice for your pet’s well-being!
Pros
Fresh chicken as a primary protein source
Balanced fat-to-protein ratio (46%)
Formulated by board-certified veterinary nutritionists
Meets guidelines recommended by the World Small Animal Veterinary Association
Cons
Contains grains may not suit all dogs
Limited availability in some regions
Pro Plan Large Breed Adult is among 19 kibbles assessed in our review of the Purina Pro Plan Focus line.
Focus Large Breed Adult relies on fresh chicken as its primary animal protein source. Our dry matter label analysis indicates a composition of 30% protein, 14% fat, and roughly 49% carbs… resulting in a fat-to-protein ratio of about 46%.
Pro Plan earns accolades from breeders and veterinary professionals alike. Expertly formulated by board-certified veterinary nutritionists, the Pro Plan range adheres to strict guidelines recommended by the World Small Animal Veterinary Association.
Purina Pro Plan is one of the best brands, offering quality and affordability. It is highly recommended.
Explore our comprehensive review of the Purina Pro Plan Dog Food range here.
- Key Ingredients: Chicken, brewer rice, whole grain wheat, corn gluten meal, whole grain corn
- Texture: Dry
- Type: Grain-inclusive
- Protein Content: 30%
Excerpt from a customer review:
“My black lab loves this food. Her coat is beautiful, her energy is high, and she digests it easily. My vet recommended this food, and I couldn’t be happier. I saw a noticeable difference within days of feeding this to her. My dog eats the dry food with some of the PPP wet focus for large breeds. Do not hesitate to feed this to your pups. It’s a game-changer!”
Orijen Dry Dog Food
Orijen Dry Dog Food
Elevate your dog’s nutrition with Orijen Dry Dog Food.
Rich in animal protein and grain-free, it offers balanced nutrition and biologically appropriate formulas.
Though pricier, its quality makes it a top choice for pet owners prioritizing their dog’s health and well-being.
Pros
Abundant animal protein from chicken, turkey, and fish
Balanced fat-to-protein ratio (47%)
Grain-free formulation
Produced by a reputable company with biologically appropriate designs
Cons
Higher price
Availability may be limited
Orijen Original is among 9 dry recipes reviewed in our assessment of the Orijen line.
This Orijen product relies mainly on chicken, turkey, and fish for its animal protein. Our dry matter label analysis shows a composition of 43% protein, 21% fat, and about 28% carbs… resulting in a fat-to-protein ratio of about 47%.
A meat-rich, high-quality dry dog food from a reputable company known for its biologically appropriate designs. While not budget-friendly, it deserves serious consideration.
Explore our full review of the Orijen Dog Food (Dry) range here.
- Key Ingredients: Deboned chicken, deboned turkey, Atlantic flounder, cage-free eggs, whole Atlantic mackerel
- Texture: Dry
- Type: Grain-free
- Protein Content: 43%
Excerpt from a customer review:
“Since rescuing Pewee, a Jackabee, I struggled to find a food he’d eat. After a friend recommended Orijen, he devoured it immediately. He is ordering more, his coat has improved, he’s more energetic, and his bathroom habits are regular.”
Nulo Freestyle Dry Dog Food
Nulo Freestyle Dry Dog Food
Nulo Freestyle Dry Dog Food offers premium nutrition with protein from turkey, turkey meal, and salmon meal.
Grain-free and suitable for various dogs, it ensures balanced health.
Though it may cost more and availability varies, its superior quality makes it a wise choice for your furry companion.
Trust Nulo Freestyle for a happy, healthy pup!
Pros
Protein from turkey, turkey meal, and salmon meal
Balanced fat-to-protein ratio (55%)
Grain-free
Suitable for a wide range of dogs
Cons
Higher price
Availability varies
Nulo Freestyle Adult Turkey and Sweet Potato: one of 9 dry kibble recipes assessed in our Nulo Freestyle review.
This Nulo Freestyle formula relies on turkey, turkey meal, and salmon meal as its primary meat protein sources. Our dry matter label analysis indicates a composition of 37% protein, 20% fat, and approximately 35% carbs… resulting in a fat-to-protein ratio of about 55%.
A superior, grain-free option, providing balanced nutrition for a diverse range of dogs. It is highly recommended.
Explore our comprehensive Nulo FreeStyle Dog Food (Dry) range review here.
- Key Ingredients: Deboned turkey, turkey meal, salmon meal, chickpeas, chicken fat
- Texture: Dry
- Type: Grain-free
- Protein Content: 37%
Excerpt from a customer review:
“My dogs have been on this food for about a year now. After switching around a bit due to food allergies and wanting what was best for the dogs, I found Nulo. Their coats have never been shinier, and they love this food! No more dryness in their coats in the colder winter months. Just shine healthy coats and happy dogs. There are various food flavors, and the dogs love them all.”
If you want to learn more about salmon dog food options, explore The Doggo Bio’s comprehensive guide now!
Nutro Ultra Dry Dog Food
Nutro Ultra Dry Dog Food
Nutro Ultra Dry Dog Food delivers high-quality nutrition with chicken and chicken meal as main proteins, boasting a 63% fat-to-protein ratio.
With diverse flavors and great value, it’s a top choice for pet owners.
However, its grain content may not suit all dogs, and availability varies.
Still, Nutro Ultra ensures balanced nutrition for your furry friend.
Pros
Chicken and chicken meal as primary protein sources
High fat-to-protein ratio (63%)
Wide flavor and recipe selection
Excellent value
Cons
Contains grains may not suit all dogs
Availability is limited in some areas
Nutro Ultra Adult: one of 9 dry recipes in our Nutro Ultra review.
This Nutro formula primarily uses chicken and chicken meal for meat protein. Our dry matter label analysis indicates a composition of 24% protein, 15% fat, and about 53% carbs… resulting in a fat-to-protein ratio of about 63%.
It’s one of our top-value picks available in various flavors and recipes.
Explore our full review of the Nutro Ultra Dog Food (Dry) range here.
- Key Ingredients: Chicken, chicken meal, whole grain sorghum, whole grain barley, whole grain oats
- Texture: Dry
- Type: Grain-inclusive
- Protein Content: 24%
Excerpt from a customer review:
“have 5 dogs…ranging in different sizes and breeds. This is the ONE food I can get them all to eat without buying many different brands or formulas. Thank you, Nutro!”
Wellness Core Dry Dog Food
Wellness Core Dry Dog Food
Wellness Core Dry Dog Food: Premium nutrition with fresh turkey, turkey, and chicken meals.
Grain-free, with a balanced fat-to-protein ratio of 47%.
A top choice for quality-conscious pet owners despite a slightly higher cost.
Trust Wellness Core for a happy, healthy pup!
Pros
Balanced fat-to-protein ratio (47%)
Grain-free formulation
Consistently ranked on our Best Grain-Free Dog Foods list for over a decade
Cons
Slightly higher cost
Availability may vary
Wellness Core Original: one of 12 dry recipes featured in our Wellness Core review.
This Wellness Core formula primarily utilizes fresh turkey, turkey, and chicken meals as animal protein sources. Our dry matter label analysis indicates a composition of 38% protein, 18% fat, and about 36% carbs… resulting in a fat-to-protein ratio of about 47%.
Core has consistently made our Best Grain-Free Dog Foods list for over a decade and is highly recommended.
Explore our comprehensive Wellness Core Dog Food (Dry) range review here.
- Key Ingredients: Deboned turkey, turkey meal, chicken meal, peas, potatoes
- Texture: Dry
- Type: Grain-free
- Protein Content: 38%
Excerpt from a customer review:
“After recently reading an article on health risks for pea proteins in canine foods, we decided (after research) that Core was a perfect option. Our Bella LOVES IT, and it was an easy transition from her old food with no disruption to her digestive system, which is so common. We are delighted with this brand. It costs a little more than others, but our Bella is worth it !!!”
Iams Proactive Health Dry Dog Food
Iams Proactive Health Dry Dog Food
Iams Proactive Health Dry Dog Food offers top-notch nutrition with fresh lamb as the main protein, endorsed by vets and breeders.
While some dogs may not tolerate chicken by-product meals and grains, they are still popular for reliable dog nutrition.
Pros
Fresh lamb as primary protein source
Balanced fat-to-protein ratio (56%)
Affordable with multiple recipe choices
Trusted by veterinarians and breeders
Cons
Contains chicken by-product meal
Includes grains, may not suit all dogs
Iams Lamb and Rice Adult formula: one of 12 dry recipes in our Iams Proactive Health review.
Iams Lamb and Rice primarily use fresh lamb for its animal protein. Our dry matter label analysis indicates a composition of 28% protein, 16% fat, and about 49% carbs… resulting in a fat-to-protein ratio of about 56%.
It’s a favorite among veterinarians and professional breeders, an affordable, “classic” option with various recipe choices. It is highly recommended.
Explore our comprehensive review of the Iams Proactive Health Dog Food (Dry) range here.
- Key Ingredients: Lamb, chicken by-product meal, brewers rice, ground whole grain barley, ground whole grain corn
- Texture: Dry
- Type: Grain-inclusive
- Protein Content: 28%
Excerpt from a customer review:
My bulldog’s allergies and colitis were challenging, but switching to Iams Lamb and Rice formula made a significant difference. Even grain-free options didn’t work. With this food and her medication, her skin allergies are improving, her hair is growing back, and she’s had no colitis flare-ups.
Merrick Classic Healthy Grains Dry
Merrick Classic Healthy Grains Dry
Merrick Classic Healthy Grains Dry Dog Food provides balanced nutrition with fresh beef and pork, boasting a healthy fat-to-protein ratio of 58%.
Enriched with essential minerals, it’s a cost-effective option, though only ideal for some dogs due to grain content.
Nevertheless, its quality ingredients and positive reviews make it popular among pet owners seeking nutritious options.
Pros
Primary proteins: fresh beef and pork meal
Balanced fat-to-protein ratio (58%)
Contains essential minerals
Reasonably priced
Cons
Contains grains may not suit all dogs
Natural Beef and Brown Rice: one of 13 recipes in our Merrick Classic dry product line review.
Merrick Classic Healthy Grains primarily uses fresh deboned beef and pork for animal protein. Dry matter label analysis reveals a composition of 29% protein, 17% fat, and about 46% carbs… resulting in a fat-to-protein ratio of about 58%.
This fully balanced formula contains zinc amino acid complex and four other chelated minerals, typically found in higher quality dog foods. Reasonably priced. It is highly recommended.
Explore our full Merrick Classic Healthy Grains Dog Food (Dry) range review here.
- Key Ingredients: Deboned beef, pork meal, brown rice, barley, oatmeal
- Texture: Dry
- Type: Grain-inclusive
- Protein Content: 29%
Excerpt from a customer review:
“After adopting animals that had been dropped off at my property, I thought buying cheap dog food to keep them all nourished was easy. Bad deal! I was contributing to poor health and obesity. I switched to Merrick and noticed a weight and energy change in all my pets within weeks.”
How To Choose The Best Dry Dog Food?
They are considering what to look for before purchasing dry dog food. Experts weigh in on crucial factors for your furry friend’s diet.
- AAFCO Approval: Look for AAFCO’s stamp on labels or manufacturer websites to ensure safety and adequacy.
- Size Matters: Tailor food to your dog’s size; larger breeds need high-quality protein, while smaller dogs may require unique formulas.
- Age Appropriateness: Just like size, age influences nutritional needs. Large-breed puppies need specific diets for proper growth, while senior dogs benefit from reduced protein and fat.
- Price vs. Quality: Don’t compromise quality for cost; invest in quality food for long-term benefits. Budget-friendly options can suffice, but if feasible, consider specialized diets for specific breeds.
- Smell Test: Ultra-processed kibble with excessive fillers can emit unpleasant odors, deterring dogs from eating. Opt for less pungent aromas to ensure mealtime enjoyment for your furry companion.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What’s the healthiest option for your dog’s diet?
Opt for dog food that meets AAFCO standards and meets your dog’s nutritional requirements. However, veterinarians caution against raw diets due to potential foodborne illnesses like Salmonella. Similarly, vegetarian diets lack essential nutrients for dogs and are not AAFCO-approved.
How much dry food should I feed my dog?
Predicting the perfect serving size for each dog with a specific brand is impossible. It’s best to begin with the suggested amount from the feeding instructions on the bag. Then, adjust the serving size over time to maintain your dog’s ideal weight.
How can you safely switch your dog to a new dry food?
The best approach is to transition gradually. Mix 25% of the new food with 75% of the old food. Then, over the next seven days, slowly increase the proportion of the latest food until it reaches 100%. Here’s a transition schedule to follow:
| Transition Schedule | Old Food | New Food |
| Days 1 and 2 | 75% | 25% |
| Days 3 and 4 | 50% | 50% |
| Days 5 and 6 | 25% | 75% |
| Day 7 | 0% | 100% |
What risky ingredients should be avoided in dry dog food?
Here are 8 controversial ones found in many popular brands, along with their associated health risks:
| Ingredient | Type | Linked To |
| BHA | Preservative | Cancer |
| BHT | Preservative | Cancer |
| TBHQ | Preservative | Cancer |
| Ethoxyquin | Preservative | Liver pigmentation |
| Menadione | Synthetic vitamin | Hemolytic anemia |
| Artificial dyes | Colorant | Cancer |
| Propylene glycol | Moisturizer | Heinz body anemia |
| Generic “meat” | Unknown source | Food allergies |
When should you switch your dog to senior dog food?
According to the American Veterinary Medical Association, small dogs are typically considered seniors at 7 years old. In comparison, larger breeds may reach senior status at 5 to 6 years old due to shorter lifespans.
You may not need to switch to a senior formula if your dog is healthy and eating well. However, some older dogs can benefit from specialized senior diets. For recommendations, visit The Doggo Bio’s Top 10 Senior Dog Foods.
How long can dry dog food be stored?
To maintain freshness, Doggo Bio suggests adhering to the sell-by date or using dry dog food within six weeks of opening.
Owners of small breeds should only purchase extra-large bags that may take longer to finish. Storing dry food in an airtight container, inaccessible to curious pups between meals, is ideal. Large bags are best suited for bigger dogs.
For recommendations, explore The Doggo Bio’s comprehensive guide to the best dog food containers.
What is the best dry dog food for picky eaters?
The best dry dog foods for picky eaters include Royal Canin Veterinary Diet Hydrolyzed Protein, Merrick Grain-Free, Blue Buffalo Wilderness Grain-Free, Taste of the Wild High Prairie, and Wellness Core Grain-Free.
These options offer high-quality ingredients and flavorful recipes to entice even the most selective eaters.
Experimenting with different options and consulting with your veterinarian can help you find the right choice for your picky pooch. For recommendations, visit The Doggo Bio’s Top 10 dog food toppers and dog foods for picky eaters.
Is wet or dry food better for your dogs?
Yes, in many aspects, canned food can surpass kibble. Wet foods typically boast higher meat protein content and provide natural moisture to a dog’s diet without preservatives, thanks to their pasteurization and can sealing. They are easier to chew, which is advantageous for aging pets, and often offer superior taste.
However, there’s a drawback. Wet dog foods often come with a higher price tag than dry kibbles, which can pose affordability challenges, especially when feeding larger dogs. Despite this, The Doggo Bio offers a comprehensive selection of top-rated wet dog foods for those seeking optimal nutrition for their pets.
Can dry food help managing kidney disease in dogs?
Yes, specially formulated dry food can assist in managing kidney disease in dogs by offering controlled levels of protein, phosphorus, and sodium. These diets are crafted to bolster kidney function and promote overall health.
Consulting with a veterinarian is essential to identify the optimal diet tailored to your dog’s specific needs and the stage of kidney disease they are experiencing. For expert recommendations, refer to The Doggo Bio’s comprehensive guide on the best Kidney Diet for Dogs.
Is dry dog food good for weight loss?
Yes, dry dog food can be beneficial for weight loss. It is designed with controlled calorie content and balanced nutrients tailored for effective weight management.
Dry kibble facilitates straightforward portion control and can contribute to dental health maintenance in some varieties. Selecting a product labeled specifically for weight management and seeking guidance from your veterinarian are crucial steps to ensure a safe and successful weight loss plan for your dog.
For expert recommendations, consult The Doggo Bio’s comprehensive guide on the Best Dog Food For Weight Loss.
Can Human-Grade Dog Food Come in Dry Form?
Human-grade dog food comes in various forms, including dry food, wet food, freeze-dried, and dehydrated options.
Conclusion
In conclusion, selecting the best dry dog food involves considering various factors such as ingredients, nutritional value, and suitability for your dog’s specific needs. With numerous options available on the market, it’s essential to prioritize quality, balanced nutrition, and palatability.
By consulting with veterinarians, reading reviews, and understanding your dog’s preferences, you can make an informed decision to ensure your furry companion enjoys optimal health and well-being.
Remember, what works best for one dog may not be suitable for another, so it’s crucial to tailor your choice to your dog’s requirements and tastes.