best quality dog food for senior dogs
Best Dog Food For Senior Dogs
A long life is the result of good genes, good care, and good luck. While a few four-leaf clovers never hurt anyone, chances are its a little late to worry about good genes once youve welcomed a dog into your heart. That leaves good care as the one thing you can control now. And a big part of good care is good nutrition.
However, there are issues when it comes to feeding your senior dog. Neither the Association of American Feed Control Officials (AAFCO) nor the National Research Council have determined official dietary requirements for aging dogs. Its partly because senior dogs vary so much in their individual needs. That may explain why commercial foods for seniors vary so widely in nutrient levels.
Nobody expects you to be a nutritionist just to pick out a bag of dog food. But you should be aware of just a few important factors that apply to most senior dogs. This will help you choose the best dog food for your senior dog.
Dont Restrict Protein
This matter is widely misunderstood. Many people still believe senior dogs should eat less protein. We now know the opposite is true. Healthy seniors need more protein, not less, in order to fuel muscle. Loss of muscle mass is a major problem in older dogs. Some seniors lose so much muscle they can no longer walk unassisted.
Older dogs need about 50 percent more protein to maintain muscle mass compared to younger ones. But, diets formulated for adult maintenance diets often dont have enough protein to satisfy these needs. Veterinarian Ernie Ward, founder of the Association for Pet Obesity Prevention, recommends 28 to 32 percent protein on a dry-matter basis for healthy older dogs, especially in those cases where weight loss is needed.
Consider Calories
Younger seniors tend to be overweight. But, very old dogs tend to be underweight. A 2011 study found that calories in senior foods varied widely, ranging from 246 to 408 calories per cup. So, the same senior food may be a great choice if your dog needs to lose weight. But it may be a bad choice if they need to gain weight.
Dont forget that the time to consider calories is well before old age sets in. Two benchmark studies conducted by major dog food companies Purina and Waltham both found that restricting calories throughout life improved longevity and reduced illnesses. Essentially, good care for senior dogs starts in youth.
Feed For Organ Health
Other factors to consider are senior dog health problems such as heart and kidney disease. For both conditions, youll want a low-sodium food. But, that same 2011 study found that sodium levels in senior foods ranged from 33 to 412 mg/100 kcal. For kidney disease, youll want low phosphorous, but thats not even mentioned on any label. The 2011 study found phosphorous levels varied by threefold in the senior foods they examined, but were on average higher than their representative adult maintenance food.
Prescription diets are available for heart, kidney, and other diseases that take into account these nutritional needs. However, even those foods may have wide ranges of nutrients. Any dog food manufacturer should be able to provide these numbers to you on their website or with a simple phone call. While youre at it, ask them about the credentials of the people formulating their foods. If they cant provide either, thats clue number one that you should find another product.
Add Supplements
Some senior foods include supplements such as glucosamine and chondroitin in an effort to combat osteoarthritis. Unfortunately, the evidence that these supplements actually work is limited. However, they wont hurtexcept maybe your wallet.
On the other hand, omega-3 fatty acids probably play an important role in senior diets because they may help combat both osteoarthritis and especially cognitive losses. If you are adding your own to your dogs diet, aim for the amount of EPA and DHA combined to be in the range of 700 to 1,500 mg. Build up starting at the low end and cut back if your dog has any diarrhea or vomiting.
Theres probably more to the recipe than simply EPA and DHA, however. Research conducted at Purina tested Beagles between the ages of 9.5 and 11 years of age that were fed either a standard diet or one supplemented with antioxidants, B vitamins, fish oil, and L-arginine for six months. The dogs fed this Brain Protection Blend performed significantly better on a series of mental tasks, especially the more difficult ones, compared to the dogs not receiving the blend. The tasks involved determining which one of several shallow wells contained food when the cue was a marker either next to it, near it, or displaced at an angle; or seeing how well they did on a task requiring them to discriminate right, left, and center, and then relearning which side was correct in order to receive a reward.
Make Food Palatable For Senior Dogs
There are practical aspects of feeding your dog to consider, too. Senior dogs may have dental problems that make chewing difficult or uncomfortable. These dogs should first be treated for whatever problem they have, but if that is impossible or unsuccessful, consider wetting their food or feeding them canned or soft food. Simply feeding a smaller kibble size may help if youre feeding dry food.
Senior dogs may be uncomfortable bending down to the food bowl or standing for long periods to eat. Try serving their meals on a raised platform or encourage them to eat lying down.
Very old dogs often lose their appetite. Warming the food can increase its aroma and may help stimulate the appetite; cooling it may make it less nausea-inducing in queasy dogs. At some point you may have to abandon your goal of a healthy balanced diet and just feed him whatever he will eat. The wait until hes hungry enough tactic doesnt work in seniors because their hunger mechanism may not be working correctly. Besides, its a little late to be worried about spoiling himand even if you do, doesnt he deserve it?
This column first appeared in theSeptember/October 2019 issue of AKC Family Dogmagazine.
The best senior dog food of 2024, with advice from veterinarians
What to look for in senior dog food
Our experts say the following criteria are important to consider when shopping for senior dog food:
AAFCO nutritional adequacy statement for adult maintenance or all life stages: The AAFCO is a nonprofit organization that recommends nutritional profiles based on an animal's life stage. They don't approve pet foods or establish specific standards for senior dog foods. However, choosing a senior food formulated for adult maintenance or all life stages ensures the recipe fulfills the recommended protein, fat, and nutrient requirements of adult dogs. The best dog foods for senior pups will also contain beneficial extras such as glucosamine and chondroitin to support joint health and have fewer calories per serving than adult dog foods.
Ingredient list: Labels list ingredients by weight, so the first few ingredients generally make up the majority of the food's weight. "There are no particular ingredients that senior dogs should avoid," says Luisana. However, she recommends grain-inclusive foods over grain-free foods due to the potential link between grain-free dog foods, especially those containing peas, and dilated cardiomyopathy.
Guaranteed analysis: Rather than fixating on dog food ingredient lists, our experts say to examine the guaranteed analysis of important nutrients, including protein, fat, fiber, and other essential vitamins and minerals. Adult dog food must have a minimum of 18% protein and 5.5% fat to fulfill a dog's nutritional needs. As the AAFCO doesn't set specific standards for senior dog foods, the guaranteed analysis of these foods can vary significantly between recipes. Before selecting a food, our experts recommend asking your vet about the best food for your senior pup.
Healthy extras: The best senior dog food will contain extra ingredients that support their unique needs. For example, Freeman and Welborn highlight the potential benefits of antioxidants in supporting healthy aging. Welborn suggests a diet rich in antioxidants, such as Purina Bright Minds, if your dog experiences cognitive dysfunction. Other healthy extras for seniors include joint-healthy omega-3 fatty acids, glucosamine, and chondroitin.
Calorie content: A dog's metabolism typically slows as they age, and many seniors are less active. So, senior dog foods usually contain fewer calories than adult formulations, according to Churchill. Freeman adds that overweight senior dogs are at greater risk of weight-related conditions like arthritis and diabetes. That said, feeding your dog less food could result in a nutritional deficiency. That's why Freeman recommends switching to a low-calorie senior diet or a weight-management diet based on guidance from your vet.
Breed-size formulation: The best food for your senior pup may depend on their size. Our experts say small and large breed seniors have different health risks and may also require different calorie amounts and kibble sizes. Buying food specific to your pup's size helps ensure they get a recipe formulated for their needs.
Feeding-trial tested versus formulated foods: The best senior dog foods have been formulated and in some cases, feeding-trial tested to meet the AAFCO's nutritional standards for adult maintenance or all life stages. If your dog's food has an AAFCO label, you'll know the recipe fulfills the recommended protein, fat, and nutrient requirements for adult dogs. A label indicating feeding trials confirms the food's safety and palatability based on testing with a group of dogs.
Expert formulations: The dog food brands we recommend meet quality control standards. In other words, the brand employs a full-time board-certified veterinary nutritionist and potentially a PhD-level animal nutritionist, as recommended in the WSAVA guidelines.
Next-level ingredients: Next-level ingredients refer to those farmed or caught through humane and sustainable farming or harvesting practices. Although these ingredients may not offer extra nutrition to your pet, choosing pet food with ingredients like farmed raised meats, cage-free eggs, and sustainably caught fish helps you support a pet food company that prioritizes both animal welfare and sustainable practices.
Best Dry Dog Food
Redbarn Grain-Free Sky is one of 3 dry recipes studied in our review of the Redbarn dry product line.
Redbarn Sky derives the bulk of its meat protein from fresh turkey and chicken. Dry matter label analysis reveals a wet recipe containing 31% protein, 17% fat and 44% estimated carbs with a fat-to-protein ratio of about 10%.
A wholesome grain-free product. Recommended with confidence.
Read our review of the full Redbarn Grain Free Dog Food (Dry) range here
Main Ingredients Turkey, chicken, chicken meal, duck meal, turkey meal Texture Dry Type Grain-free Protein Percentage 31% Sample buyer review...
Read more buyer reviews at Redbarn.com"As a pet owner I always want the best for them. Made the best decision in choosing this brand. The combination of ingredients, flavors as well as nutrients. The best . My dog loves it. Highly Recommended!!"
Grass Fed Beef is one of 21 dry recipes revied in our review of the Open Farm product line.
This Open Farm recipe obtains the bulk of its animal protein from beef. Dry matter label analysis reveals the recipe contains 36% protein, 18% fat and 38% estimated carbs producing a fat-to-protein ratio of about 48%.
A perfect source of premium nutrition. Recommended.
Read our review of the full Open Farm Grain-Free Dog Food (Dry) range here
Main Ingredients Humanely raised beef, ocean whitefish meal, field peas, sweet potato, beef livers Texture Dry Type Grain-free Protein Percentage 36% Sample buyer review...
Read more buyer reviews at OpenFarmPet.com"Lola has had some type of food allergies since she was a puppy and it took so much trial and error until we found Open Farm. She loves the food and she is so healthy with a happy tummy. I love how the food is sourced and the quality ingredients."
Chicken Pupatouille is one of4 dehydrated recipescovered inour reviewof the A Pup Above product line.
A Pup Above acquires the lions share of its meat protein fromchicken. Dry matter label analysis reveals the recipe contains 33% protein, 21% fat and 38% estimated carbs resulting a fat-to-protein ratio of about 63%.
See all 4 available recipes
Read our review of the full A Pup Above Whole Food Cubies Dog Food (Dehydrated) range here
Main Ingredients Chicken, chicken heart, sweet potato, barley, oat Type Grain-inclusive (barley, oat) Protein Percentage 33% Sample buyer review...
Read more buyer reviews at APupAbove.com"The Cubies make it so easy to feed on the go. Weve used them for training or when were out and about during mealtime, and love that were still getting everything we love from the fresh recipe. Kirby gets so excited when the Cubies box comes out! He knows hes in for something special."
Chicken and Brown Rice Unkibble is one of 3 dry recipes included in our review of the Spot and Tango product line.
Spot and Tango Unkibble derives the majority of its animal protein from fresh chicken. Dry matter label analysis reveals the recipe contains 26% protein, 17% fat and 49% estimated carbs [producing a fat-to-protein ratio of about 64%.
The quality of fresh ingredients just dry. Highly recommended.
Read our review of the full Spot and Tango UnKibble Dog Food (Dry) range here
Main Ingredients Chicken, brown rice, sweet potatoes, carrots, apples Texture Dry Type Grain-inclusive Protein Percentage 26% Sample buyer review...
Read more buyer reviews at SpotandTango.com"I always worry that the regular dry kibble isnt enough nutrition for Hoagie. This is a good alternative that doesnt require me feeding him a full meal of raw food (which gives me sticker-shock and I worry if I dont feed it to him fast enough for it to still be fresh.)"
Salmon and Sweet Potato recipe is one of 4 dry recipes included in our review of the Jinx product line.
This Jinx recipe derives the bulk of its animal protein from fresh salmon. Dry matter label analysis reveals the recipe contains 30% protein, 16% fat and 46% estimated carbs creating a fat-to-protein ratio of about 52%.
A fully-balanced, grain-inclusive dog food. Highly recommended.
Read our review of the full Jinx Dog Food (Dry) range here
Main Ingredients Salmon, pearled barley, ground peas, turkey meal, brown rice Texture Dry Type Grain-inclusive Protein Percentage 30% Sample buyer review...
Read more buyer reviews at ThinkJinx.com"Finally found a new food we are happy with! My dog loves the salmon flavor and we cant wait to try the chicken sampler! We especially love how much thought goes into the food and its ingredients."
Wellness Complete Health Adult Deboned Chicken and Oatmeal is one of 13 dry recipes included in our review of the Wellness Complete Health product line.
This Wellness Complete Health formula derives the bulk of its meat protein from chicken and chicken meal. Our dry matter label analysis reveals the product contains 27% protein, 13% fat and 52% estimated carbs creating a fat-to-protein ratio of about 50%.
One of the best grain-inclusive kibbles on the market. Highly recommended.
Read our review of the full Wellness Complete Health Dog Food (Dry) range here
Main Ingredients Deboned chicken, chicken meal, oatmeal, ground barley, peas Texture Dry Type Grain-inclusive Protein Percentage 27% Sample buyer review...
Read more buyer reviews at Chewy.com"I have three dogs, all different breeds and sizes. They all love this food; it has caused absolutely 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."
Instinct Original with Real Beef is one of 5 dry recipes included in our review of the Instinct Original product line.
This Instinct example derives the majority of its animal protein from beef and chicken meal. Our dry matter label analysis reveals the recipe contains 40% protein, 23% fat and 29% estimated carbs which creates a fat-to-protein ratio of about 57%.
With multiple flavor options, Instinct makes an ideal choice for feeding picky eaters. Highly recommended.
Read our review of the full Instinct Dog Food range here
Main Ingredients Beef, chicken meal, white fish meal, peas, chicken fat Texture Dry Type Grain-free Protein Percentage 40% Sample buyer review...
Read more buyer reviews at Chewy.com"Our rescued English Bulldog has been eating this product since she arrived. She has no allergy issues and seems to be doing well with this formula. She is eager to eat. She's digesting the product well and her flatulence is now non-existent. Happy dog, happy home!"
Natures Logic Canine Chicken Meal Feast is one of 11 dry recipes included in our review of the Natures Logic product line.
This Natures Logic example recipe derives the bulk of its meat protein from chicken meal. Our dry matter label analysis reveals the product contains 40% protein, 17% fat and 36% estimated carbs yielding a fat-to-protein ratio of about 42%.
Natures Logic is one of the few dry brands meeting AAFCO nutrient standards by using live feeding trials. Highly recommended.
Read our review of the full Natures Logic Dog Food (Dry) range here
Main Ingredients Chicken meal, millet, chicken fat, pumpkin seed, yeast culture Texture Dry Type Grain-inclusive Protein Percentage 40% Sample buyer review...
Read more buyer reviews at Chewy.com"I have been feeding this for 3 months now and their skin and coats have cleared up nicely. No more greasy smelly fur babies. Plus no more pills on a daily basis. Yes it's a little more expensive but I'm saving in vet bills. Trying to find a grain and potato free kibble is nearly impossible but I hit a home run here."
High Prairie is one of 9 dry recipes included in our review of the Taste of the Wild product line.
High Prairie derives the majority of its meat protein from fresh buffalo, as well as both chicken and lamb meals. Our dry matter label analysis reveals the recipe contains 36% protein, 20% fat and 36% estimated carbs producing a fat-to-protein ratio of about 56%.
Taste of the Wild provides a top-rated, nutrient-balanced formula at an affordable price. Highly recommended.
Read our review of the full Taste of the Wild Dog Food range here
Main Ingredients Buffalo, lamb meal, chicken meal, sweet potatoes, peas Texture Dry Type Grain-free Protein Percentage 36% Sample buyer review...
Read more buyer reviews at Chewy.com"We have had a tough run with our sensitive GSD with diarrhea, itchy butt and ears. After trying multiple types of foods leading to severe enteritis, we gave TOW high prairie a try. Within days, solid poop and no itching! We are so relieved!"
Blue Buffalo Life Protection Chicken and Rice is one of 21 kibble recipes included in our review of the Blue Buffalo Life Protection product line.
This Life Protection example derives the majority of its animal protein from chicken and chicken meal. Our dry matter label analysis reveals the recipe contains 27% protein, 16% fat and 50% estimated carbs creating a fat-to-protein ratio of about 58%.
A top-rated, grain-inclusive kibble. One of The Advisors most popular recommendations.
Read our review of the full Blue Buffalo Dog Food range here
Main Ingredients Deboned chicken, chicken meal, brown rice, barley, oatmeal Texture Dry Type Grain-inclusive Protein Percentage 27% Sample buyer review...
Read more buyer reviews at Chewy.com"My dog is a very picky eater with a sensitive stomach (he is a chocolate heeler) and this food has done wonders for him. He's finally eating as much as he should without stomach issues and it's made him almost a brand new dog. I tried a few different foods with him but this seemed to give me the best results..."
Pro Plan Large Breed Adult is one of 19 kibbles featured in our review of the Purina Pro Plan Focus product line.
Focus Large Breed Adult derives the majority of its animal protein from fresh chicken. Our dry matter label analysis reveals the recipe contains 30% protein, 14% fat and 49% estimated carbs creating a fat-to-protein ratio of about 46%.
Pro Plan is one of the dog food brands most frequently mentioned by breeders and veterinary professionals.
Each recipe has been expertly formulated by a team of board certified veterinary nutritionists.
In addition, the entire Pro Plan product line is designed and manufactured according to rigorous guidelines recommended by the World Small Animal Veterinary Association.
Purina Pro Plan is one of the very best brands youll find on this or any list. And its easy on the budget, too. Highly recommended.
Read our review of the full Purina Pro Plan Dog Food range here
Main Ingredients Chicken, brewers rice, whole grain wheat, corn gluten meal, whole grain corn Texture Dry Type Grain-inclusive Protein Percentage 30% Sample buyer review...
Read more buyer reviews at Chewy.com"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 a little bit of the PPP wet focus for large breeds. Do not hesitate to feed this to your pups.. it's a game-changer!"
Canidae Pure Real Salmon and Sweet Potato is one of 10 dry kibble recipes included in our review of the Canidae Grain-Free Pure product line.
This Canidae Grain-Free product derives the majority of its meat protein from fresh salmon, as well as salmon and menhaden fish meals. Our dry matter label analysis reveals the recipe contains 36% protein, 20% fat and 36% estimated carbs which produces a fat-to-protein ratio of about 56%.
An exceptional, dry recipe, free of corn, wheat or soy. A top recommendation.
Read our review of the full Canidae Grain Free Pure Dog Food (Dry) range here
Main Ingredients Salmon, salmon meal, menhaden fish meal, sweet potatoes, peas Texture Dry Type Grain-free Protein Percentage 36% Sample buyer review...
Read more buyer reviews at Chewy.com"After switching dog foods several times due to my girl having a very sensitive stomach we tried this on a recommendation. No more issues and she LOVES the food. What more could you ask for?"
Orijen Original is one of 9 dry recipes included in our review of the Orijen product line.
This Orijen product derives the majority of its animal protein from chicken, turkey and fish. Our dry matter label analysis reveals the recipe contains 43% protein, 21% fat and 28% estimated carbs which produces a fat-to-protein ratio of about 47%.
A meat-rich, dry dog food made by a quality company known for its superior, biologically appropriate designs. Not cheap but worthy of serious consideration.
Read our review of the full Orijen Dog Food (Dry) range here
Main Ingredients Deboned chicken, deboned turkey, Atlantic ounder, cage-free eggs, whole Atlantic mackerel Texture Dry Type Grain-free Protein Percentage 43% Sample buyer review...
Read more buyer reviews at Chewy.com"Since I rescued Pewee( a jack a bee)I been trying to find a dog food he would eat. He refused to eat every dry or wet food I tried to feed. So I had a friend who had a similar problem with her dog, so she gave me some Orijen to try since her picky eat loved it from day one. So I tried it and he loved it as soon as I put it in his bowl he ate every bite. So I ordered a bag and it was here in two days, it was fresh and had a great smell to it. As soon as I put it in his bowl he eats every piece of it and wants more! Since he's been on it his coat looks much better, he has more energy and go's to bathroom on a regular basis. I can't say enough about this food. Thank you orijen!!"
Diamond Naturals Extreme Athlete is one of 13 kibble recipes included in our review of the Diamond Naturals product line.
This Diamond Naturals formula derives most of its animal protein from chicken meal and fresh chicken. Our dry matter label analysis reveals the recipe contains 36% protein, 28% fat and 29% estimated carbs which yields a fat-to-protein ratio of about 78%.
Diamond Naturals was recently selected as one of our most affordable dog foods. Highly recommended.
Read our review of the full Diamond Naturals Dog Food (Dry) range here
Main Ingredients Chicken meal, chicken, ground white rice, chicken fat, cracked pearled barley Texture Dry Type Grain-inclusive Protein Percentage 36% Sample buyer review...
Read more buyer reviews at Chewy.com"I own competitive English setter females. I'm always looking for the best value per pound in what I feed my dogs. Over the past 25 years I've tried many different foods and found that 30/20 or higher works best based upon the condition, looks, stamina, palatability and stool size, consistency and frequency. I've fed this food before and found it is very close to, if not better than the Sport/Performance food it competes with!"
Nulo Freestyle Adult Turkey and Sweet Potato is one of 9 dry kibble recipes included in our review of the Nulo Freestyle product line.
This Nulo Freestyle recipe derives the bulk of its meat protein from turkey, as well as turkey and salmon meals. Our dry matter label analysis reveals the recipe contains 37% protein, 20% fat and 35% estimated carbs which produces a fat-to-protein ratio of about 55%.
A superior, grain-free kibble, offering balanced nutrition for a wide range of dogs. Recommended with confidence.
Read our review of the full Nulo FreeStyle Dog Food (Dry) range here
Main Ingredients Deboned turkey, turkey meal, salmon meal, chickpeas, chicken fat Texture Dry Type Grain-free Protein Percentage 37% Sample buyer review...
Read more buyer reviews at Chewy.com"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 love love this food! No more dryness in their coats in the colder winter months just shine healthy coats and happy dogs. There's a variety of food flavors to choose from and the dogs love them all."
Nutro Ultra Adult is one of 9 dry recipes included in our review of the Nutro Ultra product line.
This Nutro formula derives most of its meat protein from chicken and chicken meal. Our dry matter label analysis reveals the recipe contains 24% protein, 15% fat and 53% estimated carbs which creates a fat-to-protein ratio of about 63%.
Available in a wide range of flavor and recipe options. One of our top value picks.
Read our review of the full Nutro Ultra Dog Food (Dry) range here
Main Ingredients Chicken, chicken meal, whole grain sorghum, whole grain barley, whole grain oats Texture Dry Type Grain-inclusive Protein Percentage 24% Sample buyer review...
Read more buyer reviews at Chewy.com"have 5 dogs...ranging in different sizes and breeds. This is the ONE food I can get them all to eat without having to buy a bunch of different brands or formulas. Thank you Nutro!"
Go! Carnivore Chicken, Turkey and Duck Adult is one of 5 kibble recipes included in our review of the Go! Carnivore product line.
This Go! Carnivore formula derives the majority of its animal protein from chicken, turkey and salmon meals, as well both chicken and turkey. Our dry matter label analysis reveals the recipe contains 38% protein, 18% fat and 36% estimated carbs resulting in a fat-to-protein ratio of about 47%.
Free of GMO (genetically modified) ingredients and loaded with meat. A rare find. Highly recommended.
Read our review of the full Go! Carnivore Dog Food (Dry) range here
Main Ingredients Chicken meal, turkey meal, salmon meal, de-boned chicken, de-boned turkey Texture Dry Type Grain-free Protein Percentage 38% Sample buyer review...
Read more buyer reviews at Chewy.com"I've gone through about 5 or 6 different brands of kibble to find a food that my dog likes and also does well on. I'm absolutely ecstatic to say that Go! Fit + Trim is that food. Great stool, gorgeous coat, clean teeth, boundless energy, you name it. I'm incredibly impressed and so is my best girl. We found our forever food!"
Eagle Pack Power Adult is one of 7 dry kibble recipes included in our review of the Eagle Pack product line.
This Eagle Pack recipe derives the bulk of its meat protein from chicken and pork meals. Our dry matter label analysis reveals the recipe contains 33% protein, 21% fat and 38% estimated carbs yielding a fat-to-protein ratio of about 63%.
A superior kibble at an affordable price. Made by the same trusted company that also produces Wellness. Exceptional value. Highly recommended.
Read our review of the full Eagle Pack Dog Food (Dry) range here
Main Ingredients Chicken meal, pork meal, ground brown rice, peas, chicken fat Texture Dry Type Grain-inclusive Protein Percentage 33% Sample buyer review...
Read more buyer reviews at Chewy.com"She seems to be shedding much less on Eagle Pack, and her coat condition is much better than it was. She has always been prone to itches and allergies, and she is no longer scratching herself all the time and gnawing the hair off of her paws. I'm happy that this is a food that agrees with her. I wonder why I hadn't heard of Eagle Pack earlier, as I feel that it is a great food at a much more affordable price than other popular "high-quality" brands."
Wellness Core Original is one of 12 dry recipes included in our review of the Wellness Core product line.
This Wellness Core formula derives the bulk of its animal protein from fresh turkey, as well as turkey and chicken meals. Our dry matter label analysis reveals the recipe contains 38% protein, 18% fat and 36% estimated carbs producing a fat-to-protein ratio of about 47%.
Core has appeared on our Best Grain-Free Dog Foods list for more than 10 years. Enthusiastically recommended.
Read our review of the full Wellness Core Dog Food (Dry) range here
Main Ingredients Deboned turkey, turkey meal, chicken meal, peas, potatoes Texture Dry Type Grain-free Protein Percentage 38% Sample buyer review...
Read more buyer reviews at Chewy.com"After recently reading an article on health risks for pea proteins in canine foods we decided (after research) that Core was a very good option. Our Bella LOVES IT and it was an easy transition from her old food with no disruption to her digestive system at all which is so common. We are very happy with this brand. It costs a little more than others but our Bella is worth it !!!"
Holistic Select Adult and Puppy Health is one of 11 kibble recipes included in our review of the Holistic Select Grain-Free product line.
This Holistic Select formula derives most of its meat protein from fresh salmon, as well as anchovy and sardine meal. Our dry matter label analysis reveals the recipe contains 32% protein, 16% fat and 44% estimated carbs producing a fat-to-protein ratio of about 48%.
An exceptional grain-free dog food offering numerous recipe and flavor options. Highly recommended.
Read our review of the full Holistic Select Grain Free Dog Food (Dry) range here
Main Ingredients Salmon, anchovy and sardine meal, potatoes, peas, menhaden fish meal Texture Dry Type Grain-free Protein Percentage 32% Sample buyer review...
Read more buyer reviews at Chewy.com"This food was a suggestion by my vet for our small pup who is having food allergy problems. He had lost a strip of hair straight down his back and was also having bowel problems. This new food has already gotten his bowels in great working order and his hair is growing back on his back."
Dr. Tims Pursuit Active Dog Formula is one of 8 dry kibble recipes included in our review of the Dr. Tims product line.
This Dr. Tims product derives the bulk of its animal protein from chicken meal. Our dry matter label analysis reveals the recipe contains 33% protein, 22% fat and 36% estimated carbs creating a fat-to-protein ratio of about 67%.
One of the best-kept secrets in the dry kibble market. And its one of our top picks, especially for sporting dogs. Highly recommended.
Read our review of the full Dr. Tims Dog Food (Dry) range here
Main Ingredients Chicken meal, brown rice, chicken fat, whole oat groats, dried beet pulp Texture Dry Type Grain-inclusive Protein Percentage 33% Sample buyer review...
Read more buyer reviews at Chewy.com"From the moment the box arrived, it was a hit with my Australian Kelpie/Heeler blend. He has done extremely well on this food and it has eliminated his gas/hard stool issues entirely. Though the price is higher than most, the quality is well worth it in order to promote a healthy lifestyle for my boy."
Iams Lamb and Rice Adult formula is one of 12 dry recipes included in our review of the Iams Proactive Health product line.
Iams Lamb and Rice derives a large portion of its animal protein from fresh lamb. Our dry matter label analysis reveals the recipe contains 28% protein, 16% fat and 49% estimated carbs which creates a fat-to-protein ratio of about 56%.
An affordable, classic design offering multiple recipe options. A top selection popular with veterinarians and professional breeders. Highly recommended.
Read our review of the full Iams Proactive Health Dog Food (Dry) range here
Main Ingredients Lamb, chicken by-product meal, brewers rice, ground whole grain barley, ground whole grain corn Texture Dry Type Grain-inclusive Protein Percentage 28% Sample buyer review...
Read more buyer reviews at Chewy.com"My bulldog has terrible allergies and colitis, and even with taking allergy medication, so many foods worsened her problems. Even grain free limited ingredient dog foods did not help. This red bag lamb and rice iams formula is one of the very few foods she can eat and once I changed her to this food, along with her continued apoquel, her skin allergies are getting better and her hair is growing back, with no colitis flare ups."
Victor Hi-Pro Plus is one of 5 kibble recipes included in our review of the Victor Classic product line.
Victor Hi-Pro Plus derives the bulk of its meat protein from beef meal. Our dry matter label analysis reveals the recipe contains 33% protein, 22% fat and 37% estimated carbs which creates a fat-to-protein ratio of about 67%.
An affordable, all life stages kibble recently added to our budget-friendly dog foods list. Highly recommended.
Read our review of the full Victor Classic Dog Food (Dry) range here
Main Ingredients Beef meal, grain sorghum, chicken fat, pork meal, chicken meal Texture Dry Type Grain-inclusive Protein Percentage 33% Sample buyer review...
Read more buyer reviews at Chewy.com"I have 5 active dogs of all different ages. It's been a struggle to find a quality, decently priced food that kept a good weight on all of them and didn't mess with their allergies. They've been on this food since April and it's been amazing! No bad reactions when switching to Victor, no allergies, and they are all a good weight. Highly recommend."
Annamaet Ultra is one of 8 kibble recipes included in our review of the Annamaet product line.
This Annamaet kibble derives most of its meat protein from chicken meal. Our dry matter label analysis reveals the recipe contains 36% protein, 22% fat and 34% estimated carbs which produces a fat-to-protein ratio of about 63%.
Especially popular with sporting dog professionals. Enthusiastically recommended.
Read our review of the full Annamaet Dog Food (Dry) range here
Main Ingredients Chicken meal, brown rice, chicken fat, whole dry eggs, herring meal Texture Dry Type Grain-inclusive Protein Percentage 36% Sample buyer review...
Read more buyer reviews at Chewy.com"I only started feeding this food a few months ago after extensive research and I couldn't be happier with the results. Beautiful long thick coats, firm small bowel movements, and great accessible energy. I run a boarding business and all my clients who have tried Annamaet have all been very happy with it. As kibble goes, this is one of the very best options on the market."
Real Beef and Brown Rice is one of 13 recipes included in our review of the Merrick Classic dry product line.
Merrick Classic Healthy Grains derives the bulk of its animal protein from fresh deboned beef and pork meal. Dry matter label analysis reveals the recipe contains 29% protein, 17% fat and 46% estimated carbs resulting in a fat-to-protein ratio of about 58%.
This fully balanced formula contains zinc amino acid complex and 4 other chelated minerals, superior nutritional supplements typically found in higher quality dog foods. Reasonably priced. Highly recommended.
Read our review of the full Merrick Classic Healthy Grains Dog Food (Dry) range here
Main Ingredients Deboned beef, pork meal, brown rice, barley, oatmeal Texture Dry Type Grain-inclusive Protein Percentage 29% Sample buyer review...
Read more buyer reviews at Chewy.com"After adopting animals that had been dropped off at my property I thought it was easy to buy cheap dogfood to keep them all nourished. Bad deal! I was contributing to poor health and obesity. I switched over to Merrick and within weeks noticed a change in weight and energy in all my pets."
