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The Best Dry Dog Food

Last updated on November 10, 2023
bags of dry dog food

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Dogs are like members of our families, so of course, we want to keep them as healthy and happy as possible. The foundation for that is proper nutrition. A consistent, high-quality diet is the key to keeping your dog looking and feeling great. Feeding your dog the best dog food will keep them functioning at their best and can ward off chronic diseases, leading to a longer life. Dry dog food is very common and convenient, as it does not require refrigeration.

There’s a ton of different types of dry dog food out there, so the choices can be overwhelming.  You should look for dog food that is labeled as “complete and balanced,” which means the food contains the minimum amount of all the nutrients necessary for dogs. This standard is regulated by the Association of American Feed Control Officials. Keep in mind that buzzwords like “premium” and “immune supporting” are not regulated and should not carry much weight in your choice.

Just as with human food, you want to make sure your dog is eating a diet with real, whole foods and one that is free from artificial preservatives and additives. Make sure your dog’s food contains a high-quality animal protein source, like lamb, chicken or turkey. Leading brands contain multiple protein sources, including chicken, turkey, flounder and egg.

Many veterinarians recommend avoiding dog food that contains grains like corn, wheat and soy, as dogs do not need these starches. Although many healthy dog foods contain carbohydrates in the form of fruit and vegetables, brands like Taste of the Wild tout their grain-free recipe.

Other healthy ingredients include probiotics, which benefit the intestinal and immune systems, and minerals. Minerals should be chelated or proteinated for maximum absorption.

Some dogs need special diets, and diets should be adjusted for puppies and senior dogs. The right dog food for your pet will meet all of their needs and come at an affordable price.

Our Picks For The Top Dry Dog Food

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Product Overview
Our Take
  Top Pick

Blue Buffalo Antioxidant Dry Dog Food

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Blue Buffalo

Antioxidant Dry Dog Food

Made with high-quality protein from lamb as the first ingredient, this dry dog food also contains essential omega 3 & 6 fatty acids to keep your dog's coat shiny and his skin healthy. This tasty food also contains garden veggies, fruit and whole grains.

Overall Take

Essential NutrientsA high-quality dog food made with lamb that contains omega 3 & 6 fatty acids.

  Runner Up

Kibbles ‘N Bits Nutritional Protein-Enriched Dry Dog Food

Kibbles 'N Bits

Nutritional Protein-Enriched Dry Dog Food

Provide your pup with a well balanced meal using this high-quality dry dog food. It combines chicken and beef flavors, so it's sure to tantalize your canine's taste buds. Of course, pet owners will appreciate that the formula utilizes premium protein, while also adding important nutrients, like zinc and vitamin A.

Overall Take

Stock UpThis 45-pound dry dog food allows you to stock up and make less trips to the store.

  Runner Up

Iams ProActive Health Dry Dog Food

Iams

ProActive Health Dry Dog Food

It's the real chicken in this dry dog food that will keep your pet coming back for more. With the added fibers and prebiotics, the chow is easier to digest than other dog foods on the market. There are also added antioxidants to boost your pet's immune system.

Overall Take

Provides EnergyAlthough you can get this dry dog food in a 3.3-ounce bag, you'll save if you stock up with the 40-pound bag.

  We Also Like

Rachael Ray Nutrish Natural Healthy Dry Dog Food

Rachael Ray Nutrish

Natural Healthy Dry Dog Food

You won't find any artificial flavors or preservatives in this dry dog food. Instead, the kibble is made using real beef, rice and peas. The added vitamins and minerals, as well as the prebiotics, provide the nutrition and digestive support dogs of all stages need to enjoy a healthy life.

Overall Take

For Puppies and AdultsThis dry dog food is free of gluten and other ingredients that can bother dogs with sensitive stomachs.

  We Also Like

PEDIGREE Adult Complete Nutrition Dry Dog Food

PEDIGREE

Adult Complete Nutrition Dry Dog Food

Tantalize your dog's taste buds with this flavorful dry dog food. Not only will your dog enjoy a grilled steak and vegetable dinner when you opt for this bag, but he'll also get the antioxidants, vitamins, and minerals he needs to stay healthy and strong.

Overall Take

Loaded With FlavorRich in omega-6 fatty acids, this dry dog food nourishes your pup's skin and coat.

  Strong Contender

Purina Pro Plan Hard Kibble Real Chicken Dry Dog Food

Purina Pro Plan

Hard Kibble Real Chicken Dry Dog Food

Taste isn't the only reason you'll want to go with this dry dog food. It's formulated to contain live probiotics that support your pet's digestive health. It's also high in protein with both crunchy and soft pieces that are sure to appeal to your dog's senses.

Overall Take

Best for Digestive HealthSince this dry dog food bag weighs in at 47 pounds, it's a good choice when you want to stock up.

  Also Great

Merrick Natural Well Balanced Dry Dog Food

Merrick

Natural Well Balanced Dry Dog Food

Designed for all dog breeds, this dry dog food is a healthy option and is made using real deboned chicken. Ancient grains are then added to the formula, as they help your pet properly digest the food. Also included are essential vitamins and minerals, omega-3 fatty acids for a shiny coat and glucosamine and chondroitin for joint support.

Overall Take

Healthy GrainsIn addition to chicken, this dry dog food is also available in the following flavors: lamb, salmon and beef.

What to Look For

  • Make sure to feed your dog the proper amount. Overfeeding your dog ups their risk of obesity and associated health problems. There are some formulas to determine how much you should be feeding your dog depending on their size and breed, and your veterinarian can also provide you with guidance.
  • Puppies need small, frequent meals, while adult dogs can eat just one to two meals per day. Some dogs are grazers, meaning that they will eat small amounts throughout the day, but many more will eat all the food that is given to them at a time, which is why it’s important not to overfeed them.
  • Price is an important factor in dog food, as it’s one of the major ongoing expenses associated with being a pet owner. A higher price tag does not necessarily translate to a superior product.
  • To keep your dog’s food fresh, make sure it is sealed. Some brands come with resealable tops, or you can put it in an airtight container, preferably made of glass or stainless steel. Make sure you keep your dog food in a cool, dry place. Moisture and heat can compromise the food’s safety and quality.
  • Just like human food, dog food has an expiration date. Dry dog food is generally good for one year. Never give your dog food that smells or looks spoiled.
  • It’s important that the food you choose is a good fit for your dog. If your dog rejects a food or it makes them sick, it may not be the optimal choice for them. Consult with your veterinarian to find the type of food that’s best for your pet.
  • Make sure you wash the bowls your dog eats and drinks from regularly, ideally every day. Once a week, they should be sanitized with a bleach solution. Stainless steel bowls are the easiest to keep clean.

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