The Best 12 Dog Foods: According to a Veterinarian


The Best 12 Dog Foods: According to a Veterinarian
Table of Contents
What is the Best Food to Feed a Dog?
- Best Overall Dog Food: The Honest Kitchen Dehydrated Dog Food
Chosen as the best overall dog food, The Honest Kitchen’s dehydrated recipes strike the perfect balance between convenience and nutrition. Made with human-grade ingredients and gently prepared to preserve nutrients, this food is easy to store, simple to prepare, and delivers a strong nutritional profile. With a wide variety of options—from dehydrated to wet food—The Honest Kitchen maintains high-quality standards and wholesome, vet-recommended recipes. - Best Raw Dog Food: We Feed Raw Dog Food
We Feed Raw offers nutritionally balanced, raw dog food formulated by a Ph.D. animal nutritionist. Their recipes boast a high protein content of 44% and a fat level of 33%, with approximately 0% carbohydrates, making them an excellent choice for pet owners seeking a raw diet for their dogs. - Best Limited Ingredient Dog Food: Just Food For Dogs Pantry Fresh Lamb & Brown Rice Recipe
Just Food For Dogs’ Pantry Fresh Lamb & Brown Rice Recipe is formulated with limited ingredients to meet your dog’s dietary needs. This human-grade, shelf-stable food is ideal for dogs with food sensitivities or allergies. - Best Adult Dog Food: Raised Right Original Turkey Adult Dog Recipe
Raised Right’s Original Turkey Adult Dog Recipe is a human-grade dog food made from whole foods, without any synthetic vitamins or minerals. It’s particularly beneficial for active and working dogs due to its high protein and low carbohydrate content. - Best Vet-Recommended Dog Food: Ollie Dog Food
Ollie Dog Food is crafted with high-quality ingredients and is often recommended by veterinarians. Their personalized meal plans cater to your dog’s specific needs, ensuring optimal health and nutrition. - Best Human-Grade Dog Food: The Farmer’s Dog Human Grade Dog Food
The Farmer’s Dog offers fresh, human-grade meals developed by veterinarians. Prepared in USDA-certified kitchens, their recipes are tailored to your dog’s specific dietary requirements. - Most Innovative Dog Food: A Pup Above Human Grade Dog Food
A Pup Above utilizes a sous-vide cooking method to prepare their dog food, preserving nutrients and enhancing flavor. Their recipes are human-grade and grain-inclusive, providing a balanced diet for your dog. - Best Air-Dried Dog Food: Front of the Pack Dog Food
Front of the Pack offers air-dried, vet-formulated dog food that addresses common health concerns. Made with high-quality ingredients and free from fillers, it’s suitable for dogs with allergies or sensitivities. - Best Dog Food for Gut Health: Purina Pro Plan High-Protein Dog Food with Probiotics
Purina Pro Plan’s High-Protein Dog Food is enriched with probiotics to support gut health. The combination of crunchy kibble and tender meat shreds makes it both nutritious and palatable for dogs. - Best High-Protein Dog food: ORIJEN Dog Original Recipe High-Protein Grain-Free Dry Dog Food
ORIJEN’s Original Recipe is a high-protein, grain-free dog food that mirrors a dog’s ancestral diet. With 85% meat, organ, and bone content, it supports various aspects of canine health - Best Dog Food for Senior Dogs: Purina ONE High Protein Senior Dry Dog Food
Purina ONE’s High Protein Senior Dry Dog Food is designed for older dogs, featuring easy-to-chew kibble and nutrients that support joint health. It’s formulated to meet the specific needs of senior dogs. - Best Grain-Free Dog Food: Merrick Dry Dog Food Grain-Free Dog Food Recipe
Merrick’s Grain-Free Dog Food is ideal for dogs with sensitive stomachs. With a high protein content of 36% and no grains, it helps prevent allergic reactions and supports overall health.
How Many Types of Dog Food are There?
With so many varieties of dog food available on the market today, it’s easy to feel spoiled for choice. Some of the most common types include:
- Dry Dog Food: Dry dog food contains a meat mixture that is pulverized to create dough. This is then cooked and shaped into what we commonly see as kibble.
- Dehydrated Dog Food: This type of dog food is gently dried to remove moisture while preserving nutrients. It typically requires adding water before serving, making it a convenient option that offers the benefits of fresh food with a longer shelf life. Dehydrated food is a great choice for pet parents looking for minimally processed meals that don’t sacrifice nutritional value.
- Wet Dog Food: Wet dog food usually contains a meat mass that is accompanied by a hydrating ingredient, like gravy. This is easier to chew compared to dry food and replicates your dog’s natural diet.
- Grain-Free Dog Food: This dog food contains no grains that could lead to an allergic reaction in some dogs. If your dog has a sensitive stomach, this may be what they need.
- Raw Dog Food: Raw dog food comes in several forms, but it’s not cooked during the manufacturing process. It’s typically chosen for dogs with highly active lifestyles or those involved in sports like racing.
- Freeze-Dried Dog Food: This is a type of dry food that is flash-frozen to preserve its nutritional components. This is often used for weight management.
- Human-Grade Dog Food: This dog food can be either wet or dry. However, it contains ingredients that are human-grade and is suitable for dogs who lead an active lifestyle.
- High Protein Dog Food: If you have an underweight dog, high protein food will help your furry friend gain beneficial muscle mass. This will give them sustained energy throughout the day.
- Sensitive Stomach Dog Food: If your dog has food allergies or a sensitive stomach, these types of dog food can offer much-needed relief.
- Healthy Weight Dog Food: This type of food is designed to support weight management. It’s important to measure portions carefully to help control calorie intake and maintain a healthy weight.
The Best Dog Foods Reviewed
There are hundreds of dog food formulas available on the market. To help owners find the right recipe for their dogs, we have reviewed some of the best.
The Honest Kitchen Dehydrated Dog Food

The Honest Kitchen is rooted in the belief that good food makes a real difference in a dog’s health and happiness—and their dehydrated dog food recipes are a testament to that philosophy. Crafted in the USA with 100% human-grade, whole food ingredients, these meals deliver high-quality protein, low carbohydrate content, and a boost of superfoods like pumpkin, chia seeds, and kelp for added nutrition. The brand offers a diverse lineup of grain-free and grain-inclusive recipes, giving pet parents the flexibility to choose what best suits their dog’s dietary needs or preferences. The dehydration process locks in flavor and nutrients while making the food shelf-stable and easy to prepare—just add warm water. Best of all, The Honest Kitchen provides this exceptional quality at a more affordable price point than many other human-grade options, making premium nutrition accessible without sacrificing your budget.
New customers can save 40% on their first order using code 40VET.
Type: Dehydrated dog food
Best for: Puppies and adult dogs
Flavor Options: Beef, Chicken, Turkey, Fish
Price: $2.02~$3.80/pound depending on the package size
- 40% off your first order using code 40VET
- 100% human-grade, premium formula
- With easily digestible, whole foods
- Superfoods for optimal health and wellbeing
- Discounts on subscription plans and orders
- Less expensive than similar brands
- Needs to be rehydrated before serving
Ingredient Highlights:
- Real Meat: Every recipe starts with real, premium meat—like chicken, turkey, beef, or fish—for high-quality protein.
- Quinoa: A wholesome source of complex carbs and plant-based protein.
- Pumpkin: A gut-friendly superfood that supports healthy digestion.
- Coconut: Packed with omega fatty acids for skin, coat, and immune support.
- Carrots: Rich in fiber, antioxidants, and vitamin A for whole-body wellness.
Review: Pet parents rave about The Honest Kitchen’s impact on their dogs’ health and happiness. Many say they’ll never switch to another brand, praising noticeable improvements in energy, digestion, and coat condition. Dogs love the taste, and some owners call it the best dog food they’ve ever bought.
Open Farm Homestead Dry Dog Food

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Summary: This dog food uses fresh turkey and chicken recipes manufactured using prime cuts. The meat is raised in high-welfare American farms without the use of additives. Furthermore, the dog food is 100% Certified Humane so you can be sure that you are giving your dog a quality product. This dog food is backed by science and is a top-rated product on platforms such as Amazon and Chewy. It can also be used as training dog treats. It contains protein for strong muscles, prebiotic fiber for digestion, and other essential vitamins and minerals. First-time customers can also get 20% off their first auto-ship order using the code VET20!
Type: Dry dog food
Best for: Adult dogs
Flavor Options: Homestead Turkey & Chicken; Wild-Caught Salmon; Grass-Fed Beef; Pork & Root Vegetables; Catch-Of-The-Season Whitefish; Pasture-Raised Lamb; Venison
Price: $5.99/pound
- Get 20% off your first auto-ship order using the code VET20
- Contains a mix of lentils, chicory root, apples, and tomatoes
- Ingredients are non-GMO and do not contain anything artificial
- Free from grain, corn, wheat, and soy
- Every ingredient can be traced back to its source
- Contains several vitamins and minerals
- Expensive
Ingredient Analysis
- Turkey: Turkey is a protein source that supports muscle development and energy.
- Pumpkin: In addition to providing fiber to the diet, pumpkin also contains several vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants.
- Carrots: Carrots are an excellent source of beta carotene, fiber, Vitamin K1, potassium, and antioxidants.
- Coconut Oil: This is a great way to add calories to provide energy. It also contains fatty acids that lead to a healthy coat.
Review: This dog food offers premium nutrition without the use of harmful antibiotics, corn, wheat, or soy. It also has a great taste that most dogs love.
We Feed Raw

Summary: We Feed Raw offers a range of raw dog food made with high-quality nutritional ingredients for a balanced diet. Raw food is an excellent source of protein and fats for your pet and mimics what they would eat in the wild. Their patties contain no preservatives, fillers, artificial colors, or flavors and are sourced from USDA, human-grade meats. Save an additional 25% off your first order with code VETS25.
Type: Raw
Best for: Adult dogs
Flavor Options: Venison, lamb, duck, turkey, beef, and chicken
Price: $37.99-$46.99 per 5lb unit
- Additional 25% off your first order with code VETS25
- Naturally hydrating and packed full of nutrients
- Great source of healthy proteins and fats
- 6 types of dog-friendly muscle meats
- Excellent source of energy
- No sugar or carbohydrates
- Higher price tag
Ingredient Analysis:
The recipes at We Feed Raw are formulated by a Ph.D. animal nutritionist. Each meal is made of approximately 80% muscle meat, 10% organ meat, 10% finely ground bone + added vitamins and minerals.
Muscle Meat: Choose from 6 different protein sources when picking a We Feed Raw recipe. All are sourced from USDA, human-grade meats and contain no preservatives, fillers, artificial colors, or flavors. Options include venison, lamb, duck, turkey, beef, and chicken.
Organ Meat: Organ meat is included in each patty mix for an extra boost of nutrition. This meat contains a wealth of vitamins and minerals for dogs, promoting a strong immune system for an active lifestyle.
Finely Ground Bone: Edible bone is finely ground into the patty of choice. Turkey necks for the Turkey Patty, beef necks for the Beef, Lamb, and Venison Patties, chicken Patties, use chicken necks, and the Duck Patty, uses duck bones.
Vitamin + Mineral Mix: Flaxseed, Calcium Carbonate, Zinc Sulfate, Sodium Selenite, Vitamin E Supplement, Niacin Supplement, Copper Sulfate, Manganese Sulfate, Calcium Pantothenate, Thiamine Mononitrate, Vitamin A Supplement, Riboflavin Supplement, Pyridoxine Hydrochloride, Vitamin B12 Supplement, Calcium Iodate, Vitamin D3 Supplement, Folic Acid.
Review: Pet parents are raving about We Feed Raw dog food and state that it has “changed their dog’s life.” Some customers even say it has helped with their dog’s coat, making it shiner and softer.
JustFoodForDogs Pantry Fresh Lamb & Brown Rice Recipe

Summary: Just Food For Dogs is a top vet-recommended fresh food brand, known for using 100% human-grade ingredients with no preservatives. The meals are cooked fresh and ready to serve, making them both convenient and nutritious. Their Lamb and Brown Rice Recipe is especially well-suited for active adult dogs and is a great option even for picky eaters.
Type: Fresh Cooked Dog Food
Best for: Active Adult Dogs
Flavor Options: Chicken & White Rice; Tukey & Whole Wheat Macaroni; Beef & Russet Potato
Price: $8.45/12.5oz
- Premium quality
- No preservatives
- Free-shipping
- 100% satisfaction guarantee
- Cancel anytime
- Expensive
Ingredient Analysis
- Lamb Heart: Nutrient-dense food rich in iron and B-complex vitamins.
- Long-Grain Brown Rice: Excellent source of fiber, B-complex vitamins, and magnesium.
- Cauliflower: Cruciferous veggie that provides antioxidants, vitamin C, vitamin K, folate, and manganese.
- Carrots: Low-calorie food, rich in prebiotics, antioxidants, vitamins, and minerals.
- Spinach: Fiber-packed leafy green that boosts health via high vitamin and mineral content.
Review: Customers describe this JustFoodForDogs recipe as life-changing. They say their dogs love the food, and it has helped them with various health issues.
Raised Right Original Turkey Adult Dog Recipe

Summary: Raised Right Original Turkey Adult Dog Recipe thoughtfully crafted, human-grade formula suitable for dogs of all breeds and ages. It contains no preservatives or high-carb fillers like potatoes, rice, parsnips, or barley, and features a single source of animal protein. Each recipe is gently cooked in a human-grade facility, meeting all standards for food safety and quality. Their low-temperature cooking process satisfies USDA pathogen kill requirements while preserving moisture and nutritional value.
Type: Wet dog food
Best for: Dogs of all life stages
Flavor Options: Original Turkey, Original Beef, Original Pork, Original Chicken, Turkey & Pumpkin Paté, Beef & Pumpkin Paté, Pork & Pumpkin Paté, Chicken & Pumpkin Paté
Price: $10.99 per bag
- A top-tier dog food formula for pooches of all ages
- Lightly cooked, human-grade, and grain-free
- Made with 100% whole foods and real meat
- Free from synthetic vitamins and minerals
- High-protein and rich in complex B vitamins
- Needs to be thawed before serving
Ingredient Analysis:
- Turkey Thigh, Turkey Heart, & Turkey Liver: Turkey is high in real protein and rich in selenium, zinc, phosphorus, and iron.
- Carrots: Carrots are rich in beta-carotene and are a fair source of Vitamin C, Niacin, and Vitamin B6.
- Blueberries: Blueberries are a great source of fiber, vitamin C, vitamin K, manganese, and potassium.
- Organic Spearmint: Organic spearmint is rich in antioxidants and other healthy plant substances that may support hormone balance, regulate blood sugar, and improve digestion for your dogs.
- Cod Liver Oil: Cod liver oil contains vitamin A, an essential nutrient for immune system function, and omega-3 fatty acids, which help reduce inflammation in your dog’s body.
- Eggshell Powder: Eggshell Powder is high in calcium, magnesium, phosphorus, and potassium
- Flaxseed Oil: Flaxseed oil is rich in both omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids.
- Organic Dried Kelp: Together with folate, vitamin B12, and vitamin B6, organic dried kelp also contains vitamins K, A, C, and E. It also provides moderate levels of thiamin, riboflavin, niacin, and pantothenic acid.
Review: Many pet owners are well-pleased with Raised Right’s Grain-Free Original Turkey dog food recipe. They reported that it is one of the best formulas they’ve ever given to their dogs, and they were amazed by the product’s high-quality ingredients. To quote one happy customer, “My dog absolutely loves every meal in the variety pack, and actually ended up needing a little less than the recommended amount.”
Ollie Dog Food

Summary: Ollie Dog Food partners with veterinary nutritionists to create recipes that are nutritionally balanced and complete. Made with human-grade ingredients and formulated to meet AAFCO standards, each meal is gently cooked in small batches at low temperatures to preserve nutrients. Ingredients are carefully sourced, and the food is hand-packed to ensure quality. With high-quality proteins like real beef, Ollie’s recipes are suitable for both adult dogs and puppies.
Type: Fresh dog food
Best for: Adult dogs and puppies
Flavor Options: Beef; Chicken; Turkey; Lamb
Price: $1.57/meal
- Uses real meat as the number one ingredient
- Product is minimally processed
- All recipes are designed by veterinarians
- Contains no fillers like soy, corn, or wheat
- No artificial flavors, preservatives, or by-products
- Shorter shelf-life and requires special storage
Ingredient Analysis
- Beef: Beef is a protein source that supports muscle development and energy.
- Peas: Peas contain protein, vitamins, fiber, and potassium. Additionally, it also improves your dog’s GI health.
- Sweet Potatoes: This is an excellent source of potassium, B vitamins, beta carotene, phytochemicals, and carotenoids.
- Carrots: Carrots are an excellent source of beta carotene, fiber, Vitamin K1, potassium, and antioxidants.
Review: Many dog owners report that Ollie’s fresh food results in shinier coats, reduced allergies, increased energy, and overall better health for their dogs.
The Farmer’s Dog

Summary: The Farmer’s Dog offers fresh, human-grade recipes made with high-quality meats and vegetables. Each meal is prepared in USDA-approved kitchens to ensure maximum nutrition and safety. There are four main protein-rich recipes to choose from, all packed with essential nutrients. Their subscription plan starts with a two-week trial pack featuring a variety of recipes, so your dog can find their favorite. You can also pause or cancel the subscription at any time for added flexibility.
Type: Fresh dog food
Best for: Dogs of all life stages
Flavor Options: Chicken; Beef; Turkey; Bull
Price: ~$2/day
- Simple recipes with human-grade foods
- Vet-developed and AAFCO-approved formulas
- Made fresh and delivered to your door
- Personalized meal plans based on individual needs
- Come in eco-friendly packaging
- Price is not shown until checkout
Ingredient Analysis
- Real Meat: The first ingredient in each recipe is real meat (chicken, beef, turkey, or bull). This ensures proper amino acid and protein intake for dogs of different life stages.
- Healthy Veggies: Each recipe also features organic and carefully selected, health-boosting vegetables.
Review: Dog owners are satisfied with this food and say their dogs love the fresh recipes. They are also happy the food is conveniently shipped to their doors and straightforward to serve.
A Pup Above

Summary: A Pup Above crafts its dog food using human-grade ingredients in USDA-certified facilities that also produce food for people. Each recipe features a single animal protein source, combined with non-GMO fruits, vegetables, and superfoods to deliver high-quality nutrition for dogs of all breeds, ages, and sizes. Rich in fatty acids, antioxidants, vitamins, minerals, and collagen, these meals support overall health. A Pup Above offers four recipe options and provides discounts for subscription plans.
Type: Fresh and Dry Whole Food Cubies
Best for: Dogs of all life stages
Flavor Options: Turkey Pawella; Texas Beef Stew; Chicka Chicka Bow Wow; Porky’s Luau
Price: Starting at $1.36/meal
Exclusive Offer: $50 OFF your 1st order of $100+ plus FREE Shipping with code ONEVET50.
- 100% human-grade food for canines
- 72% more protein than other food formulas
- Gently cooked via the sous-vide method
- Non-GMO, high-protein, and low-carb formulas
- Discounts for subscription plans
- Expensive price tag
Ingredient Analysis
- Real Meat: Each recipe contains real meat (turkey, chicken, beef, and pork) as the first ingredient, thus ensuring a healthy amino acid profile.
- Tomatoes: Tomatoes are an excellent source of lycopene. Lycopene is a potent antioxidant that boosts the immune system.
- Turmeric: Turmeric is a superfood for dogs. It has antioxidant and anti-inflammatory features.
Review: Pet owners are raving about this dog food. They say it is delicious, and their dogs are thriving on it. They are particularly happy with the brand’s transparency and the carefully selected ingredients and superfoods.
Front of the Pack

Summary: Front of the Pack is vet-formulated dog food that is air-dried to preserve most of the nutrients and ensure premium quality feeding. The recipes are made with carefully selected and organic ingredients and feature wholesome and health-boosting foods, including fresh fruits and veggies. The food is simple to use and store. Plus, the brand offers a variety of flavors and discounts for subscriptions.
Type: Air-dried dog food
Best for: Dogs of all life stages
Flavor Options: Chicken
Price: $14.7/pound
- 100% natural and organic ingredients
- Scientifically backed up recipes
- With health-boosting superfoods
- Suitable for picky eaters
- Transparency and no hidden ingredients
- The pieces could be smaller (for toy breeds)
Ingredient Analysis
- Organic Cage-Free Chicken: Chicken is an excellent source of lean protein, and since it is organic, it is free from hormones and harmful chemicals.
- Organic Sweet Potato: Sweet potatoes add easily digestible and healthy carbohydrates to the recipe. They are considered a superfood for dogs.
- Antarctic Krill: Rich in omega fatty acids, this ingredient supports immunity, and skin & coat health.
- Organic Whole Eggs: Eggs are an additional source of protein. They are also rich in fatty acids, vitamins, and minerals.
Review: Customers are in love with this food and explain how excited their dogs are for mealtime. Some dog owners mention their dogs’ digestive issues resolved after switching to this brand. However, there are some complaints about the food pieces being too large for smaller dogs.
Purina Pro Plan High-Protein Dog Food with Probiotics

Summary: Made with real chicken as the first ingredient, this high-protein dog food is an excellent choice for active adult dogs. It is formulated with live probiotics, thus supporting gut health and a strong immune system. The recipe is also rich in omega-3 fatty acids and vitamin E, which are vital for skin & coat health. The formula comes in the form of mixed crunchy kibble with tender meat shreds for maximum enjoyment during mealtime.
Type: Crunchy kibble + Tender meat shreds
Best for: Adult dogs
Flavor Options: Chicken & Rice
Price: $3.16/pound
- High-protein formula
- Real chicken is the first ingredient
- Fortified with live probiotics
- Supports gut and immune health
- Enticing flavor and unique texture
- Only one flavor is available
Ingredient Analysis
- Chicken: Chicken is an excellent source of lean protein and promotes a healthy weight.
- Rice: Adds healthy and easily digestible carbohydrates. Plus, rice supports gut health and gives dogs energy.
- Meat Meals: These are somewhat controversial ingredients. However, in this case, they are named, and they serve as excellent sources of glucosamine (vital for joint health).
Review: This dog food is a favorite among pet owners. Many customers say their dogs enjoy the unique texture and that they have noticed a boost in their pets’ energy levels after making the switch.
ORIJEN Dog Original Recipe High-Protein Grain-Free Dry Dog Food

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Summary: This high-protein dog food is grain-free, making it a great option for dogs with sensitive stomachs or food allergies. It supports muscle development and provides sustained energy to keep your dog active throughout the day. With added vitamin E and omega-6 fatty acids, it also promotes healthy skin and a shiny coat. It can be served as a primary food source or used as a treat.
Type: Dry dog food
Best for: Adult dogs
Flavor Options: Regional Red; Original; Six Fish; Tundra; Fit & Trim
Price: $4.6/pound
- Delivers a diet that is rich and varied in ingredients
- With free-run poultry, wild-caught fish, and cage-free eggs
- Contains both fresh and raw animal ingredients
- Formulated with meat, organs, cartilage, and bone
- Offers a grain-free diet that dogs have evolved to eat
- Relatively expensive price per pound
Ingredient Analysis
- Chicken: Chicken is a protein source that supports muscle development and energy.
- Dehydrated Eggs: Eggs are a great source of protein that supports muscle development and energy.
- Kale: This is a leafy vegetable that is rich in iron and improves your dog’s overall health.
- Pumpkin: Pumpkin contains vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants that are beneficial for your dog’s health.
Review: Customers rave about the flavor and appreciate that it’s packed with meat-based ingredients and well-balanced nutrition. The food receives high praise for its quality and is often noted for promoting healthy, solid stools. While many feel it’s worth the cost, some do find it on the expensive side.
Purina ONE High Protein Senior Dry Dog Food

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Summary: This dry food for senior dogs provides complete and balanced nutrition in every serving. It’s an excellent way to support your dog’s health with beneficial nutrients, starting with real chicken as the first ingredient for a high-protein diet. The formula contains no fillers, meaning every ingredient serves a purpose. It also promotes mental sharpness in older dogs and includes glucosamine to support joint health.
Type: Dry dog food
Best for: Senior dogs
Flavor Options: Chicken
Price: $1.41/pound
- Uses real chicken as the number 1 ingredient
- Contains MCT-rich vegetable oil
- Promotes mental sharpness in aging dogs
- Leads to an increased activity level in most dogs
- Supports strong muscles, including a healthy heart
- Contains corn gluten meal and by-products
Ingredient Analysis
- Chicken: Chicken is a protein source that supports muscle development and energy.
- Rice Flour: Rice flour is an excellent source of carbohydrates, protein, and nutritional fibers.
- Corn Gluten Meal: This is used to add flavor to your dog’s meals. It contains several beneficial nutrients that improve your dog’s overall health.
- Chicken By-Product Meal: This adds a great poultry flavor to your dog’s meal in addition to increasing the protein content.
Review: This dog food features a tasty mix of protein-rich meaty morsels and crunchy kibble, offering both flavor and texture. However, the combination may not be ideal for all dogs, especially those with specific texture preferences.
Merrick Dry Dog Food Grain-Free Dog Food Recipe

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Summary: Merrick Dry Dog Food Real Texas Beef & Sweet Potato offers a grain-free dog food recipe that has been formulated with whole foods. It contains deboned beef as the first ingredient and provides high-quality protein, which builds your dog’s muscles. Not only does this increase your dog’s energy levels, but it also helps to keep them in a good mood. 65% of every serving is protein and fat ingredients, while the remaining 35% are fresh produce, fiber, vitamins, minerals, and other natural ingredients.
Type: Dry dog food
Best for: Adult dogs
Flavor Options: Beef & Bison, Chicken, Duck, Lamb; Texas Beef; Salmon
Price: $3.36/pound
- Real deboned beef is always the first ingredient
- Omega fatty acids to support healthy skin and a shiny coat
- Offers the ideal combination of protein and healthy fats
- This is a chicken-free dog food with no poultry ingredients
- Contains 65% protein and healthy fat ingredients
- Not very budget-friendly
Ingredient Analysis
- Deboned Beef: This is a great source of protein that helps build your dog’s muscles. It also provides them with the energy to play all day.
- Lamb Meal: This is an additional protein source that helps build muscles in your dog’s body.
- Salmon Meal: While this is a great source of protein, it also contains fatty acids that help reduce inflammation in your dog’s body.
- Sweet Potatoes: These are sources of antioxidants that help support the immune system. It also contains potassium, B vitamins, beta carotene, phytochemicals, and carotenoids.
Review: Customers generally praise this dog food for its quality and high-grade ingredients, especially the beef flavor. Many report noticeable health benefits, including improved coat and skin condition. However, opinions on the smell of the food are mixed. Views on value for money also vary — some see it as a great investment, while others find it a bit expensive.
How do I Choose the Right Dog Food?
Looking for the right dog food brand can be overwhelming for many pet parents. Before choosing one, there are a few important things to keep in mind:
- Ingredients: This is one of the most important factors to consider when choosing a dog food. Every dog is different, and certain ingredients may not sit well with some. Before picking a brand, make sure to read the label carefully to understand what’s in the food. It’s also a good idea to consult your vet for personalized recommendations.
- Type: There are many types of dog food available — from basic wet and dry options to prescription diets and limited ingredient formulas. If your dog is a picky eater, it’s important to figure out which type of food they prefer to ensure they’re getting the nutrition they need.
- Cost: Dog food shouldn’t break the bank — especially since it’s something you’ll be buying regularly throughout your dog’s life. It’s best to choose an option that’s budget-friendly without compromising on quality.
- Shelf Life: If a dog food has a short shelf life, it might be worth reconsidering your choice. A longer shelf life means the food stays fresh for longer, making it more convenient and reducing waste.
- Nutritional Benefits: If a dog food provides added nutritional benefits that other brands don’t, you’re likely making a good choice. If your dog has any specific health needs, look for formulas designed to support those conditions.
How do I Read a Dog Food Label?
There are a few things one has to keep in mind before reading a food label:
- Protein Source: It’s important to know where the protein in your dog’s food comes from. If the first ingredient is a clearly named source like chicken, lamb, or beef, that’s usually a good sign. Be cautious of vague ingredients like “meat by-products,” as these can sometimes cause health issues in certain dogs.
- Additional Ingredients: These can include vegetables, fruits, and grains — all of which help create a balanced diet for your dog. However, some dogs may have allergies or sensitivities to certain ingredients, so it’s important to watch for any adverse reactions.
- Preservatives: Your dog’s food should be free from artificial preservatives, which can cause health issues in some dogs. These additives are often used to extend shelf life, so if you notice a product with an unusually long shelf life, it’s a good idea to check what preservatives are being used.