Choosing the right food is one of the most important ongoing decisions you’ll make as a dog owner. Just like with us, a dog’s diet supports their overall health, energy levels, and life span,. While fresh, non-processed meals are the gold standard for optimal health, there are also high-quality dry foods that can provide excellent value and balanced diets. We’ll look at both.
With so many brands and formulas to choose from, it can be tough to know where to start. That’s where this guide comes in. We’ll help you sort through the noise by highlighting the best dog foods, from the premium fresh option to the an ultra-budget-friendly choice that feels to inexpensive to be real.
Absolute Best Overall — The Farmer’s Dog — Fresh, Customized Meals Delivered
The Farmer’s Dog is the top choice for dog owners who truly want the best diet for their pup. This fresh, human-grade food is made from real meat and vegetables in kitchens outfitted for people to eat from. Designed to meet AAFCO nutritional standards and delivered right to your door, each meal is personalized for your dog’s unique needs, factoring in their age, breed, and health. With no preservatives or highly processed ingredients, it’s the ideal choice for anyone prioritizing quality and freshness in their dog’s diet.
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Best Overall Dry Food — Blue Buffalo Life Protection Formula
Blue Buffalo Life Protection Formula Adult Dry Dog Food is the top-rated choice for those looking for a high-quality dry food option. Made with real deboned chicken as the first ingredient, it offers a balanced blend of protein, brown rice, vegetables, and cranberries to support strong muscles, energy, and immune health. Customers rave about the food’s positive impact on their dogs’ skin and coat, and with over 47,000 ratings, it’s a best-seller for good reason.
Its proprietary blend of vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants support immune health and overall vitality. Plus, it’s free from chicken by-products, corn, wheat, and soy, making it a more natural option for health-conscious dog owners.
Best for Puppies — Purina Pro Plan Puppy
Purina Pro Plan High Protein Dry Puppy Food is a standout option for growing puppies, thanks to its high-protein formula featuring chicken and rice. Enriched with DHA from fish oil, it supports brain and vision development, while added calcium and phosphorus help build strong bones and teeth. Customers love its positive impact on their puppies’ growth and energy.
With highly digestible ingredients, this food ensures optimal nutrient absorption, making it ideal for developing pups.
Best for Older Dogs — Blue Buffalo Life Protection Senior Formula
Blue Buffalo Life Protection Formula Senior Dry Dog Food is a highly-rated option for older dogs, designed to support joint health and mobility. Made with real chicken as its main ingredient, it provides essential proteins and carbohydrates to maintain energy while promoting lean muscle.
The food is also packed with Glucosamine and Chondroitin, which help support aging joints and hips. Customers love its effectiveness in improving mobility and overall vitality, reflected by its 4.7-star rating from over 9,000 reviews.
Best for Small Dogs — Hill’s Science Diet for Small and Mini Dogs
Hill’s Science Diet for Small & Mini Dogs is an excellent option for little breed dogs. This formula is designed with highly digestible ingredients that are gentle on small stomachs. Packed with high-quality protein, it helps maintain lean muscle, while Omega-6s and vitamin E promote a shiny coat and healthy skin. With over 28,000 positive ratings and a 4.8-star average, it’s a favorite among small dog owners for its vet-recommended, science-led nutrition.
Best Grain-Free Dog Food — Nature’s Recipe Grain-Free Formula
Nature’s Recipe Grain-Free Salmon, Sweet Potato & Pumpkin Recipe is a well-loved option for those seeking a grain-free diet for their dog. This formula features high-quality salmon as the primary protein, combined with nutrient-rich sweet potatoes and pumpkin to support healthy digestion. Omega-3 and Omega-6 fatty acids promote skin and coat health, while antioxidants boost the immune system. With over 9,500 ratings and a 4.6-star average, it’s a popular choice for dogs with grain sensitivities.
Best for Sensitive Stomachs — Purina Pro Plan for Sensitive Skin & Stomachs
Purina Pro Plan Sensitive Skin and Stomach Salmon & Rice Formula is an excellent choice for dogs with digestive sensitivities. Featuring easily digestible ingredients like salmon, rice, and oatmeal, this high-protein formula promotes digestive health while providing essential nutrients for immune support. The food is fortified with live probiotics to enhance gut health, and omega-6 fatty acids from sunflower oil help maintain a healthy coat and skin. With over 24,000 ratings and a 4.6-star average, it’s highly recommended by folks whose pups have sensitive stomachs.
Best Budget Dog Food — IAMS Proactive Health
IAMS Proactive Health Minichunks Adult Dry Dog Food is a top budget-friendly option without sacrificing quality. Made with real chicken as the first ingredient, this formula promotes whole-body health, with a blend of natural fiber and prebiotics for healthy digestion. It supports immune health through antioxidants and provides seven essential nutrients to support a healthy heart. With a 4.7-star rating from over 30,000 reviews and a price point around $1.50 per pound, it’s a great value for quality nutrition.
Best Ultra-Budget Dog Food — Pedigree Complete Nutrition
Pedigree Complete Nutrition Adult Dry Dog Food is the most affordable dog food that still provides balanced, quality nutrition. At less than a dollar per pound, it delivers whole grains, protein, and essential vitamins and minerals to support overall health. The formula includes Omega-6 fatty acids for skin and coat health and is free of high fructose corn syrup, artificial flavors, and added sugars. With a 4.7-star rating from over 30,000 reviews, it’s a reliable and low-cost choice.
How to Choose??
If you’ve read this far and you’re still unsure which option to select for your dog, we can make it even simpler than we have so far.
Top 3 Options
If you want to give your pup the very best nutrition possible in a form they’ll love, you want to get meals from The Farmer’s Dog. We found it very worthwhile to take the survey and discover the cost for our dog’s customized meal plan. This quote is free, of course.
If you want the simplest blend of savings and quality, you can’t go wrong with the bestselling dry food on Amazon.
And if affordability is your highest priority, look no further than Pedigree at under $1 a pound.