Choosing The Best Dog Foods: Everything You Need To Know

Written by Hannah Ward
Updated: December 12, 2022
©

Advertisement


This post may contain affiliate links to our partners like Chewy, Amazon, and others. Purchasing through these helps us further the A-Z Animals mission to educate about the world's species.

Best forProduct
Best OverallStella & Chewy’s Classic Kibble
Best Dry FoodHill’s Science Diet Adult Perfect Digestion Large Breed Chicken Dry Dog Food
Best Wet FoodPurina ONE SmartBlend Canned Dog Food
Best for PuppiesWellness Complete Health Puppy Dry Food
Best for Small DogsTaste of the Wild Appalachian Valley Small Breed Grain-Free Dry Dog Food
Best for Large DogsTaste of the Wild Pacific Stream Grain-Free Dry Dog Food
Best for SeniorsBlue Buffalo Life Protection Formula Senior Chicken & Brown Rice Recipe
Best for AllergiesCANIDAE Grain-Free PURE Limited Ingredient Dry Dog Food
Best for Sensitive StomachsHill’s Science Diet Adult Sensitive Stomach & Skin Dry Dog Food
Most AffordableRachael Ray Nutrish PEAK Open Prairie Recipe with Beef, Venison & Lamb Natural Grain-Free Dry Dog Food
Best for Weight-GainMiracle Vet High Calorie Dog Food
Best Specialty BrandJustFoodForDogs Fresh Frozen Dog Food
Best for Weight LossMerrick Healthy Grains Healthy Weight Dry Dog Food
Best Organic FoodCastor & Pollux ORGANIX Dry Dog Food
Best for SheddingPurina Pro Plan Adult Sensitive Skin & Stomach
Best Freeze-DriedTruDog Freeze-Dried Dog Food
Best Grain-FreeCrave High Protein Adult Grain Free Dry Dog Food
Best Legume-FreeNatural Balance Limited Ingredient Diets Grain-Free Dry Adult Dog Food
Best Yeast-FreeStella & Chewy’s Freeze-Dried Dinner Patties
Best Low-Phosphorus FoodBlue Buffalo Natural Veterinary Diet KS
Best Low-Fat Dog FoodWellness CORE Grain-Free Reduced Fat Turkey & Chicken
Best for Liver DiseaseHill’s Prescription Diet l/d Liver Care
Best for Large-Breed PuppiesPurina Pro Plan High Protein Chicken and Rice
Best for Picky EatersTaste of the Wild High Prairie Grain-Free Dry Dog Food
Best for American BullyBully Max High Performance Super Premium Dog Food
Best for Australian Cattle DogsBlue Buffalo Wilderness High Protein, Natural Adult Dry Food
Best for Australian ShepherdsNatural Balance Limited Ingredient
Best for Border ColliesHill’s Science Diet Adult Oral Care Dry Dog Food
Best for BoxersRoyal Canin Breed Health Nutrition Boxer Adult Loaf in Sauce
Best for Cane CorsoPurina Pro Plan Wet Dog Food for Large Dogs
Best for ChihuahuasRoyal Canin Breed Health Nutrition Chihuahua Adult Dry Dog Food
Best for CorgisBlue Buffalo Life Protection Formula Adult Dry Dog Food
Best for DachshundsRoyal Canin Breed Health Nutrition Dachshund Adult Dry Dog Food
Best for DobermansDiamond Naturals Light Formula Dry Dog Food
Best for English BulldogsRoyal Canin Breed Health Nutrition Bulldog
Best for French BulldogsNatural Balance Limited Ingredient Diet
Best for German ShepherdsRoyal Canin Breed Health Nutrition German Shepherd
Best for Golden RetrieversRoyal Canin Breed Health Nutrition Golden Retriever
Best for GoldendoodlesStella & Chewy’s Classic Kibble
Best for Great DanesNutro Ultra Large Breed Adult Dry Dog Food
Best for Labrador RetrieversRoyal Canin Breed Health Nutrition Labrador Retriever
Best for MalteseNatural Balance L.I.D. Limited Ingredient
Best for PitbullsAnnamaet Ultra 32% Dry Dog Food
Best for PomeranansRoyal Canin Breed Health Nutrition Pomeranian Adult Dry Dog Food
Best for PoodlesRoyal Canin Breed Health Nutrition Poodle Adult Dry Dog Food
Best for PugsRoyal Canin Breed Health Nutrition Pug Adult Dry Dog Food
Best for RottweilersRoyal Canin Breed Health Nutrition Rottweiler Adult Formula
Best for Shih TzusRoyal Canin Breed Health Nutrition Shih Tzu Adult Dry Dog Food
Best for Siberian HuskiesBlue Buffalo Wilderness High Protein, Natural Adult Dry Food
Best for YorkiesHill’s Science Diet Adult Small Paws Dry Dog Food

All dog owners want to be the best — the best playmate, the best friend, and the best parent. Dog parenting 101 is quite similar to parenting a human baby. Dogs require proper sleep, hydration, affection, and especially nourishment. Choosing the best dog food to feed your furry companion is at the top of the list, as this is what provides them with energy, a healthy coat and skin, and a well-functioning gut. Nutrient requirements vary for dogs of different ages, sizes, breeds, and those with certain medical conditions.

While it would be considerably easier if all dogs could eat the same food, this is not the case. The best dog food varies by age, breed, size, and a variety of other factors. See below for a complete list of rankings for your situation.

Puppies require more protein content from meals than adults do, as well as more calories overall. Once a dog reaches around eight years old, it is a good idea to switch them to senior canine food, decreasing caloric intake as metabolism slows and increasing carbohydrates to maintain energy levels. Additionally, dogs with certain medical issues, such as allergies, diabetes, and gastrointestinal discomfort, will need to eat high-quality dog food that lacks certain ingredients or has added others for support.

The task of choosing food can be quite daunting with the seemingly endless options of dry food, wet food, brands, proteins, additional ingredients, pet requirements, etc. Of course, there are common things to look for in all dog foods, such as unwanted additives, fillers, and unhealthy ingredients. Finding the right balance of nutrients is essential. Dogs are omnivorous, meaning that meat is their main protein source, but they also derive vitamins, minerals, and fiber from fruits, vegetables, and grains. So, high-quality foods containing whole-food ingredients will best benefit your dog.

While there is no single “best dog food”, there are many top choices for different situations and use cases. Because dogs all have varying nutritional requirements based on breed, size, age, and other medical factors, our team at A-Z Animals has developed advice for choosing food from each category. Our team has considered every possible factor when choosing the best dog food for your puppy, senior dog, toy dog, and more. Read on to learn more.

Top Picks: The Best Dog Food Today

#1 Best Dry Food: Hill’s Science Diet Perfect Digestion Adult Large Breed Dry Dog Food

Our selection as the best overall dry dog food and the best dog food brand is Hills’s Science Diet Adult Perfect Digestion Large Breed Chicken Dry Dog Food.

This company combines rigorous testing, research, and feedback from veterinarians to create high-quality dog food for all breeds and it all comes down to the ingredients. Protein is essential in the diet of a dog as it builds healthy muscle and tissues. This dry dog food contains high-quality protein in the form of chicken, barley, rice, and whole-grain oats so you can be certain that your pet is only eating the very best ingredients.

Another great feature of this food is that it contains prebiotics. These aid dog’s digestion so that they can enjoy this food without having an stomach upset. It also contains a high dose of vitamins C and E as well as natural antioxidants to help support your dog’s immune system.

Although this food has a lot going for it some customers reported that the kibble is too large for their pets — even larger breeds.

Check out more dry dog food here.

2. Best Wet Food: Purina ONE SmartBlend Canned Dog Food

After researching multiple wet dog foods, we selected the Purina One SmartBlend True Instinct Adult Canned Wet Dog Food as our number one overall pick.

This food is available in a variety of delectable flavors which are sure to get your pet’s tail wagging. Each can of wet food features real meat or poultry as the main ingredient, meaning these are high-protein options to help keep your dog healthy. In fact, this food contains 30% protein to help dogs grow strong and healthy.

The recipe includes healthy and safe ingredients but is free from fillers such as wheat, corn, or soy. This food is also made without the use of any artificial flavors, artificial preservatives, or artificial colors to help you feel confident that you’re offering your dog the best, nutritious food. The availability of both grain-free and grain-in versions mean that it is suitable for pets who have allergies. Purina challenges users to take the Purina ONE 28-day challenge — after 28 days you should see an improvement in your pet’s coat, teeth, gums, eyes, and even energy level!

This Purina food is sold in 12 count packs of 13-ounce cans. Compared to other, more expensive foods, this is a better value for those looking to save money without compromising nutrition.

Although this food certainly has a lot going for it, some owners have found that their pets do not like the gravy.

Check out our full review of the best wet dog food here.

Best Wet Food
Purina ONE SmartBlend Canned Dog Food
  • Purina One Smartblend Classic Ground Pate Dog Food
  • Made With Real Chicken and Brown Rice
  • Contains Antioxidants for a Healthy Immune System
  • 100% Complete & Balanced Nutrition For Adult Dogs
  • Added Vitamins And Minerals Provide Complete And Balanced Nutrition


Check Chewy Check Amazon

3. Best for Puppies: Wellness Complete Health Puppy Dry Food

Puppies can begin eating wet food when they are weaning off of their mother’s milk, at around four weeks of age. At around eight weeks of age, puppies should begin eating dry food as their baby teeth should have mostly come in by then. Wet food has a higher fat content which could potentially lead to health issues if puppies are left on this diet alone.

Choosing high-quality food with healthy ingredients is especially important for puppies to sustain growth rate, strengthen muscles and bones, and improve the immune system. It is a great idea to discuss the puppy diet and growth rate of the particular breed with a veterinarian in order to feed the right amount of the best food for your dog. Large breed puppies mature more slowly at 18 to 24 months of age versus 10 to 12 months of age for smaller breeds. The difference in growth rate means a difference in nutritional and caloric requirements over this time, so it is important to weigh puppies regularly to keep your canine on track to a healthy weight and age.

The top food that we recommend for puppies is Wellness Complete Health Puppy Dry Food.

This “complete health” puppy food includes deboned chicken, oatmeal, and salmon for a tasty way to get well-rounded nutrition into your growing puppy’s body. It’s supported by a natural source of DHA to assist with brain development and is also supported by guaranteed levels of calcium and phosphorus for proper bone and muscle development. Your puppy’s health relies on their immune system, and this formula is fortified with vitamins and minerals to support their overall immunity.

This puppy food is appropriate for small, medium, and large breeds. The high-quality protein provides optimal energy so your puppy can run around, play, and develop that lean muscle mass they’ll need throughout their life. The blueberries and spinach in the formula are antioxidant-rich to support immunity, while flaxseed is included because it’s omega-rich for a shiny coat.

The guaranteed analysis of this confirms no less than 29% crude protein, 18% crude fat, and no more than 4.5% of crude fiber. There’s also 1.2% of calcium along with several other vitamins, minerals, and taurine for well-being. It is also completely free from meat by-products and artificial colors, flavors, and preservatives.

Unfortunately, a small number of owners reported that it made their pups quite gassy, while others said their pups simply wouldn’t eat it.

You can find our other recommended puppy food here.

Best for Puppies
Wellness Complete Health Puppy Dry Food

•Dry or wet food formulated for puppies

•DHA for brain development

•Calcium & phosphorus for bone growth


Check Chewy Check Amazon

4. Best for Small Dogs: Taste of the Wild Appalachian Valley Small Breed Grain-Free Dry Dog Food

Small dogs obviously have smaller stomachs, but, surprisingly, they have higher metabolic rates than larger breeds, meaning they rely on nutrient-dense, high-quality foods for sustained energy. However, it is important to monitor the amount of food given to small breeds, as they can gain weight, and even just two pounds is life-changing for these small animals. Weight gain of the same amount in small canines is significantly more detrimental than in larger breeds as it is much more noticeable and injurious to joints and organs. Therefore, it’s important to choose a food that is specially designed to meet the nutritional needs of smaller dogs. Plus, food with smaller kibble pieces are easier to chew and it never hurts to look for food high in skin-supporting supplements either.

We recommend Taste of the Wild Appalachian Valley Small Breed dry dog food as the best overall choice for small dogs.

This formula meets all of the nutritional needs of smaller pups and uses high-quality natural ingredients. It is a high-protein food and contains real meat that comes from venison, duck, lamb, and ocean fish. Eggs, added nutrients, and amino acids help provide the fats, vitamins, and minerals that your dog needs to stay healthy and active.

The small breed formula was made with the needs of small dogs in mind. It also has smaller kibble that is easier for small dogs to eat and allows for easier digestion. Smaller teeth and smaller stomachs mean that small dogs have to work that much harder to chew and digest large kibble bits. They might not get the same well-rounded diet when they have to chomp down on large bites.

One of our favorite aspects of Taste of the Wild is the wide range of foods, both wet and dry, that they offer. You can start your small puppy on their puppy formula and easily transition to the small breed adult formula when they are ready. Anytime you transition between foods, it can take time for their digestive system to adjust. This doesn’t happen as much when transitioning between Taste of the Wild foods because their systems are already used to the basic components.

However, some pet parents have reported that this food is not suitable for picky eaters.

Check out our page on the best dog foods for small breeds for more information.

Best for Small Dogs
Taste of the Wild Appalachian Valley Small Breed Grain-Free Dry Dog Food

•Specialized small breed formula

•Antioxidants, prebiotics, and probiotics for overall health & wellness,

•High protein for muscle maintenance and growth

•Superfoods & fruits for vitamins & minerals

Check Chewy Check Amazon

5. Best for Large Dogs: Taste of the Wild Pacific Stream Grain-Free Dry Dog Food

When choosing a food for your large or medium breed dog you should make sure the nutrition contains 30% high-quality protein or more and around 9% fat matter. Dog foods come in many different protein sources, all with different protein quality and amounts, so make sure to pick one that has the appropriate specification for the breed, weight, and age of your pet. Larger canines are more prone to health issues involving bones and joints, so choose a food that provides additional nutrients to help stave off these issues.

Our selection as the best overall dog for larger dogs is the Taste of the Wild Pacific Stream Grain-Free Dry Dog Food.

As is the usual for Taste of the Wild, real protein (salmon, in this case) is the main ingredient for support of muscle maintenance and growth. Superfoods and fruits provide a balance of vitamins of minerals for overall health benefit, while omega fatty acids, antioxidants, and prebiotics create a healthy immune system and shiny coat and skin.

However, this food is completely grain-free which might not be suitable for all dogs. Therefore, it’s important to consider if this diet is right for your pet. However, there are more options available on our full review of the best food for large dogs which can be found here.

Best for Large Dogs
Taste of the Wild Pacific Stream Grain-Free Dry Dog Food

•Nutritional, high protein food for large breed dogs

•Real protein as #1 ingredient

•Fruits & superfoods for vitamins & minerals

•Antioxidants, omega fatty acids, prebiotics

Check Chewy Check Amazon

6. Best for Senior Dogs: Blue Buffalo Life Protection Formula Senior Dog Food

As dog owners we all want our canine friends to live a long and happy life. The first step to making this happen is providing a nourishing diet through all stages. Senior dogs sometimes need a little more help than younger dogs and often require more protein so they can maintain the ability to move around. They also tend to be underweight when older, so it’s important to make sure that they are getting the right calorie intake based on their individual needs.

Our selection as the best overall senior dog food is the Blue Buffalo Life Protection Senior Dry Dog Food.

Wholesome chicken is truly the first ingredient in this chicken and brown rice formula that seniors are sure to enjoy. This high-quality protein helps older dogs maintain their muscle mass and continue building new ones.

In addition to high-quality protein in the formula, other healthy ingredients include garden vegetables, fruits, and whole grains. The best part about the formula is that it excludes poultry by-product meals, corn, wheat, soy, artificial flavors, or preservatives. The food is not only made using all-natural ingredients, but also has added vitamins and minerals to help maintain the organ function of senior dogs.

Glucosamine and chondroitin are also added into the food to help seniors maintain joint health and mobility. The essential proteins and carbohydrates are also targeted to meet the specific needs of a senior dog. Additionally, Blue Buffalo added their signature Lifesource bits to this formula. These anti-oxidant-rich bits are designed to support a dog’s immune system and promote a healthy oxidative balance.

This food also comes in varying types based on small, medium, or large breed dogs. Compared to other, more expensive brands, Blue Buffalo is a budget friendly option that doesn’t forfeit quality or quantity.

However, the downside of this dog food is that some pet owners have found that their dogs do not like the additional “Lifesource bits” and will not eat them.

See our article on the best senior dog foods for some good ideas.

Best for Seniors
Blue Buffalo Life Protection Formula Senior Chicken & Brown Rice Recipe

•Formulated for senior dogs

•Glucosamine and chondroitin for joint health

•Antioxidants for immune support

•Natural, wholesome ingredients

Check Chewy Check Amazon

7. Best for Allergies: Canidae Pure Real Ingredient Premium Adult Dry Dog Food

Many breeds are prone to allergies of all kinds, including food-related allergies. Common allergens involve proteins like chicken, beef, and lamb or other ingredients including grains, gluten, soy, dairy, or egg. Symptoms often present as skin issues like hair loss, excessive itchiness, and sores. Other symptoms may include problems with digestion, such as vomiting, diarrhea, and inappetence. If your dog is experiencing any of these issues, consult a veterinarian before switching foods, as these are common symptoms of other illnesses as well. However, specific foods have been created by many brands that cater to the needs of dogs with allergies of all kinds, making it easier to find one for your pet if they are diagnosed with such.

Our selection as the best allergy-friendly dog food is the Canidae Pure Real Ingredient Premium Adult Dry Dog Food.

This limited-ingredient dry food is made using only eight safe and natural ingredients. These ingredients are salmon, salmon meal, menhaden fish meal, sweet potatoes, peas, potatoes, canola oil, and sun-cured alfalfa. Additional natural flavors, vitamins, minerals, and probiotics are also added to the recipe to promote good health.

The limited number of ingredients in this food can help when you’re trying to identify an allergen for your pup. It can also be a good choice if they’re allergic to some of the most common allergens — such as chicken, beef, dairy, or eggs since the formula for this food does not contain any of these ingredients.

This food is rich in omega-6 and omega-3 fatty acids which are formulated for healthy skin and coat. This can be especially beneficial if your dog has been dealing with skin allergies. Additionally, this formula is also antioxidant-rich to support your pet’s immune system.

Canidae offers other several other limited ingredient recipes so you can choose one that suits your pet the best. However, although this food has a lot going for it, paying more than $70 for a bag of food might be difficult to stomach.

Take a look at our article on some of the best foods for canines with allergies.

8. Best for Sensitive Stomachs: Hill’s Science Diet Adult Sensitive Stomach & Skin Dry Dog Food

Some humans simply cannot handle certain ingredients or food items, causing an upset stomach. Dogs are no different and certain dogs or breeds have difficulty digesting specific proteins or ingredients in their dog food. Occasionally, an upset stomach may be a result of a food allergy and it is best to eliminate the source, while, other times, the source may be something common to regular dog foods and harder to avoid. A lot of dog food companies have taken it upon themselves to develop foods specifically for dogs with sensitive stomachs. Unfortunately, these specialized foods tend to be pricier than regular food but are worth it for your pet’s happiness and health in the long run.

The best overall sensitive stomach dog food is Hill’s Science Diet Adult Sensitive Stomach & Skin Dry Dog Food.

This recipe is formulated for adult dogs, no matter the breed size, and contains ingredients that nourish your pup from the inside out. It is made with real chicken as the first ingredient and contains prebiotic fiber. The prebiotic fiber in this formula is crafted with beet pulp and is highly digestible to support optimal nutrient absorption. This formula also delivers a generous amount of vitamin E and omega-six fatty acids which help to improve your dog’s skin and coat. It also contains other vitamins, minerals, and amino acids.

This food is recommended by veterinarians for dogs with sensitive tummies and it provides your pup with the nutrition they needs for a lifetime of health and happiness. This dog food doesn’t contain any artificial colors, flavors, or preservatives and is made in the USA with global ingredients you can trust.

Although this food has a lot going for it some pet parents have reported that their pets simply don’t like it, or will eat it without being enthusiastic about it.

Check out our other options for sensitive stomachs here!

Best for Sensitive Stomachs
Hill's Science Diet Adult Sensitive Stomach & Skin Dry Dog Food

•Easily digestible kibbles

•Prebiotics, vitamin E, omega fatty acids

•Promotes nutrient absorption

•Balances gut biome

Check Chewy Check Amazon

9. Most Affordable: Rachael Ray Nutrish Peak Open Prairie Recipe Dry Dog Food

A cheaper option for dog food does not necessarily mean a “bad” one. The main difference between variously priced foods is the density of nutrients per serving. For example, an expensive, higher quality food may have a serving size of 1.5 cups, while a comparable inexpensive food has a serving size of four cups. The important part of feeding your dog is making sure they’re getting all of the proper nutrients and, regardless of price, if food is meeting those requirements it is still a good choice. However, cheaper foods may contain unwanted fillers and additives which could lead to intestinal discomfort or other health issues. Feeding a higher volume of food also poses the risk of bloat, which is extremely dangerous to dogs. Doing proper research on food composition is crucial when looking for a more affordable option, but those options do exist!

Our top choice for most affordable dog food goes to Rachael Ray Nutrish Peak Open Prairie Recipe Dry Dog Food.

This food is best affordable dog food that will fill your dog’s belly while being high-quality and packed with nutrition. One of the reasons this one beat out the competition is because it has farm-raised chicken as the main ingredient. The other ingredients include things such as beet pulp and brown rice that give your pup plenty of fiber and prebiotics.

This dog food is also great for your dog’s digestive system and skin thanks to the healthy omega fats in it. Also, this food is grain-free and doesn’t contain corn, chemicals, soy, or preservatives that are unnecessary and harmful to our pets. However, grain-free might not the best option for all pets, so this is something you should consider before purchasing. Additionally, some owners found that fussy eaters simply wouldn’t eat this food.

Check out some other affordable options here.

Most Affordable

10. Best for Weight Gain (High Caloric): Miracle Vet High Calorie Dog Food

Putting weight on your dog may seem relatively easy, however, doing so requires a specific nutritional regimen in order to gain beneficial weight and not just fat. Therefore, a high protein, high caloric food is the best way to approach weight gain in a safe manner.

Miracle Vet High-Calorie Dog Food for Weight Gain has earned its place as A-Z Animals’ top choice for high-calorie dog food.

This food offers the most calories of any dog food used for helping dogs gain weight. You’ll see the weight gain required for optimal health when you feed your dog according to the directions. However, with the food being nutritionally complete, your dog won’t need as much to get the nutrients required.

All of the ingredients are US-sourced, eliminating concerns about low-quality ingredients from unknown locations. There are also no artificial ingredients or filler while all of the ingredients are natural.

Most dogs will likely have a good experience with this food. However, some dogs might experience digestive upset that you need to watch for when switching to this food. Also, a few buyers reported that their dogs wouldn’t eat this food.

See our complete list of high calorie dog foods for more options.

Best for Weight-Gain
Miracle Vet High Calorie Dog Food
  • Around 600 cal per scoop
  • All ingredients are sourced domestically in the U.S.
  • Suitable for all life stages (puppy, adult, and senior)
Check Amazon

11. Best Specialty Brand: JustFoodForDogs Fresh Frozen Dog Food

There are an increasing number of impressive direct to consumer dog food start up brands that offer higher quality ingredients, breed specific formulas, and comparable pricing to major ‘off the shelf’ dog food brands like Iams or Blue Buffalo.

Our top pick for the best specialty brand is JustFoodForDogs Fresh Frozen Dog Food.

This brand offers a specific formula tailored exactly to your dog’s breed, size, and age. The food comes in frozen packages which is easy for you to cook and serve. The food is made with absolutely zero preservatives and 100% wholesome, fresh ingredients that are human-grade edible. There are several flavors available and the recipes are formulated specifically by veterinarians and nutritionists to give you complete peace of mind that your pet is eating only the very best quality food.

This food contains high levels of calcium and phosphorus which help to promote tissue growth and strong and healthy bones. It is also completely free from fillers and artificial colors, flavors, and preservatives.

Unfortunately, some pet parents have reported that it is “hit and miss” with picky eaters as to whether they eat it or not.

Best Specialty Brand
JustFoodForDogs Fresh Frozen Dog Food

•Frozen, preportioned meals

•Wholesome, fresh ingredients

•Various protein & carbohydrate options

•Vet recommended

Check Chewy Check Amazon

12. Best for Weight Loss: Merrick Healthy Grains Healthy Weight Dry Dog Food

Canine obesity is an increasing issue as many owners become pushovers to their never-fully satisfied pups. Obesity is a result of feeding more than is used energetically and is more common in older dogs whose metabolism has slowed but food intake has not. In dogs that are overweight, it is important to limit treats and to not feed table scraps, as worse health implications may arise. While exercise is the main way to help your dog lose weight, a proper diet is also essential. High protein, low-calorie diets are the best for promoting weight loss. Breaking up food portions into smaller ones throughout the day may also help metabolism and digestion.

When it comes to the best food for weight loss, Merrick Healthy Grains Healthy Weight Dry Dog Food has earned its place at the top.

One of the main reasons we chose this food is because it doesn’t have any cheap or unnecessary fillers or animal by-products. Foods with fillers contain empty calories that can quickly add numbers to the scale.

The food is available in a healthy grains recipe as well as a grain free recipe for those who require this diet. The normal formula consists of high-protein content in the form of deboned beef, turkey meal, chicken meal, and chicken fat. It also contains wholesome fruits & vegetables, as well as added minerals and vitamins for well-balanced nutrition. L-carnitine is added to promote metabolism and glucosamine and chondroitin for joint health. There is also plenty of probiotics in the kibble to keep your pup’s digestive system running smoothly.

Although this food has largely received good reviews, some customers found that it made their dogs poop hard and dry.

See our article on the best dog foods for weight loss for more recommendations.

Best for Weight Loss
Merrick Healthy Grains Healthy Weight Dry Dog Food

•High-quality protein & real produce

•L-carnitine to promote metabolism

•Chondroitin & glucosamine for joint health

•Healthy grains or grain free options

Check Chewy Check Amazon

13. Best Organic Food: Castor & Pollux ORGANIX Organic Dry Dog Food

Many people are choosing more organic food options for themselves, so why should it be different for pets? What makes organic dog food “organic” is that it is free from preservatives, harmful pesticides, synthetic hormones, and no antibiotics have been used. All ingredients must be natural and not genetically engineered or modified nor should any chemical fertilizers or irradiation be used. Organic food is definitely the more expensive option but it may lead to higher energy levels, better skin and fur health, and increased digestive support.

While it is important to take the mentioned circumstances into consideration when looking for the correct dog food for your pet, it may also be beneficial to research specific nutritional requirements of the breed of your dog, as certain breeds have special requirements. Many of these requirements revolve around energy level, coat length, or health issues that the breed is prone to.

After careful consideration we selected the Castor & Pollux Organix Dry Dog Food as the best overall organic dog food.

As a company that complies with the USDA Natural Organic program regulations, Castor & Pollux were reviewed by independent, USDA-accredited experts. This means that their food can be tested for compliance and should provide you with additional peace of mind that the ingredients listed on the bag are a true representation of what is inside.

This food is formulated for adult dogs and is made using organic ingredients. It does not contain any artificial preservatives, flavors, or colors, so you can rest easy knowing your dog is eating a healthy meal. The ingredients include organic chicken, oatmeal, barley, brown rice, and peas. It also includes a blend of fresh superfoods such as organic blueberries, coconut oil, and flaxseed. The grains — such as oatmeal, barley, and brown rice — are designed to aid in digestion, making this a good option for dogs with sensitive stomachs.

Although it is a four-pound bag of chicken and oatmeal flavor food, there is also a larger bag available (18 pounds). Additionally, there is a chicken and sweet potato flavor available in the same two bag sizes.

Although there are a lot of positive things about this food, some users have reported that their pets simply don’t like it.

We have listed our complete list of top picks for organic dog foods here.

Best Organic Food
Castor & Pollux ORGANIX Dry Dog Food

•Made with high-quality, organic proteins and produce

•Wholesome recipes

•No artificial ingredients, fillers, or GMOs

Check Chewy Check Amazon

14. Best Dog Food for Shedding: Purina Pro Plan Focus Sensitive Skin

A certain level of shedding is natural in dogs. This level may vary among breeds, but shedding usually occurs during the summer months as your dog gets rid of hair to reduce its temperature. There are a lot of factors that can determine the frequency your dog sheds, like breed and the age of your dog.

Shedding can also be caused by allergies and other skin and coat complaints. While it is natural for your dog to shed, proper nutrition can help to minimize the hair they leave safely. Some food recipes have been created to ensure skin and coat health, minimizing shedding.

The best dog food for shedding is the Purina Pro Plan Focus Sensitive Skin Dry Dog Food in our review.

This product uses salmon as its primary ingredient. Salmon is high in protein, ensuring that your dog gets a healthy diet. It is also made from oatmeal, ideal for dogs with sensitive stomachs. This product is enriched with lots of omega-6 fatty acids and omega-3. This is important for heavy shedders as it helps maintain a healthy and shiny coat.

This food also provides a solid dietary protein and fiber source. It is also free from artificial additives, corn, soy, and wheat. This makes it suitable for dogs with digestion problems and with sensitive stomachs.

Although this product is quite expensive, it is made primarily from high-grade ingredients. However, some customers reported that it gave their pets gas.

You can view our other recommendations for the best food for shedding here.

15. Best Freeze-Dried Food: TruDog Freeze-Dried Dog Food

Freeze-dried dog preparation food works in the same manner as preparing astronaut ice cream. Frozen raw meats and other foods all go into a special machine that sublimates the water (turning ice to gas and removing it from the food). Compared to other dog food choices, when you look at freeze-dried dog food you can more clearly see each individual ingredient since they only look smaller than they did before the freeze-drying process.

Your dog is sure to enjoy the taste of TruDog Freeze-Dried Dog Food, our choice for the best overall freeze-dried dog food. There are four different flavor options (beef, turkey, turducken, and whitefish), and each flavor uses 100% meat in the recipe and does not include any fillers or preservatives.

This all-meat raw food is easy on a dog’s digestive system. As a filler-free food, it is also a good option if your dog is allergic to ingredients founds in many other foods. Most dogs love the taste of this all-natural food, and you can feel confident knowing you’re feeding your dog beneficial ingredients that will help them stay healthy.

The two main drawbacks of this food are that some dogs refuse to eat it and it’s expensive.

You can view our other freeze-dried dog food recommendations here.

16. Best Grain-Free Food: CRAVE Grain-Free High Protein Dog Food

Grain-free dog food is made without using any corn, wheat, rice, or other grains, and replaces these with pea flour or potatoes. In some cases, it can be a great alternative for your pup if they have allergies or food sensitivities. It is important to consult with your veterinarian before switching your dog to a grain-free diet, as it is not a healthy option for many dogs.

CRAVE Grain-Free High Protein Dog Food is our pick for the best overall grain-free dog food.

Do you want food with a flavor that dogs just love? Prefer to avoid ingredients your dog doesn’t enjoy? This grain-free food is a flavor that your dog is certain to love! It also has ingredients that are closest to what your dog’s wolf ancestors would have eaten and contains 34% protein to keep your dog healthy and strong. And besides being grain-free, this food is free from artificial flavors and colors, as well as preservatives, while offering complete nutrition for dogs of all sizes.

Grain-free dog food with real meat as an ingredient is often more satisfying for dogs. Dogs will have varying food needs as they age, and various life circumstances or health issues may impact how much your dog eats. This food is free from grains, including wheat, corn, and soy. Unfortunately, it is quite expensive, so it is not ideal if you are on a budget.

You can view our other grain-free selections here.

Best Grain-Free
Crave High Protein Adult Grain Free Dry Dog Food

•Delicious, high-protein grain-free recipe

•Quality ingredients

•Options for dogs of differing sizes

•Various protein options

Check Chewy Check Amazon

17. Best Legume-Free: Natural Balance Limited Ingredient Diets Grain-Free Dry Adult Dog Food

Legumes, such as peas, lentils, and chickpeas, are found in many dog foods. They add vitamins A, C, and K to foods and help manufacturers boost the protein content without adding more expensive meats. Legumes became more common in dog foods as grain-free foods became more popular; they offer an alternative to helping provide fiber and energy to dogs.

However, some dogs may be allergic or intolerant to peas or other legumes. You may also be looking for a legume-free dog food after finding out that there appears to be a possible link between legumes and Canine Dilated Cardiomyopathy, a heart disease that weakens the heart and may lead to heart failure.

The Natural Balance Limited Ingredients Diets Grain-Free Dry Adult Dog Food is our number one favorite dog food formulated without any legumes.

The first ingredient on the list is salmon, which delivers amino acids to help dogs develop and maintain strong muscles. Another key ingredient in this dry food is sweet potato, a healthy replacement for legumes. Sweet potato provides healthy fiber and works to support a dog’s digestive system. Natural Balance also added omega-6 fatty acid-rich sunflower oil to this recipe to improve a dog’s skin and coat.

There are no poultry by-product meals, fillers, artificial preservatives, artificial colors, or artificial flavors found in this dog food. The ingredient list is quite limited compared to many other brands, making this a good option for dogs who may be dealing with other allergies as well.

However, some long-time buyers indicated that the quality and quantity of this product have diminished recently. Also, some say that it is too expensive.

You can view our full review of the best legume-free dog foods here.

Best Legume-Free
Natural Balance Limited Ingredient Diets Grain-Free Dry Adult Dog Food
  • Dog food with real salmon, sweet potato, and canola oil
  • Balanced nutrition for healthy bones, heart, digestion, skin, and teeth
  • Great for dogs with sensitive stomachs or allergies
  • 12lb bag
Check Chewy Check Amazon

18. Best Yeast-Free: Stella & Chewy’s Freeze-Dried Dinner Patties

Yeast is included in the ingredient list for many dog foods. It is an overall valuable ingredient that adds nutrients and can work as a probiotic to keep your pup healthy. However, some dogs are allergic to yeast or may get an upset stomach when they eat foods with yeast.

The Freeze-Dried Dinner Patties from Stella & Chewy’s are our overall top pick if you’re looking for yeast-free food.

Stella & Chewy’s is one of the brands that advertise that all of their foods are yeast-free, so you can’t go wrong choosing food from them for your dog.

Each of these patties contains 95% meat as well as healthy fruits and vegetables plus taurine, zinc, and probiotics. Stella & Chewy produce their foods in small batches to ensure quality and healthy meals for your dog. Compared to many kibbles and wet foods that include a lot of processed ingredients, grains, fillers, and antibiotics, these grain-free, raw food patties are a more natural choice for your pup.

Feeding your dog this raw diet can help improve their digestion, improve the look and feel of their skin and coat, support a healthy immune system, and offer relief from allergies. Choose from 13 delicious flavors that your dog is sure to enjoy: beef, chicken, duck, lamb, rabbit, red meat, salmon & beef, turkey, venison & lamb, pork, venison, beef & salmon (for puppies), and chicken & salmon (for puppies).

However, a number of buyers reported that product quality was inconsistent and that some bags were moldy, rock hard, or “like dust.” Also, a few pet parents said that their dogs didn’t like the food and refused to eat it.

You can view our full review of the best yeast-free dog foods here.

Best Yeast-Free
Stella & Chewy’s Freeze-Dried Dinner Patties
  • Protein-rich patties with 95% chicken, organs and bone
  • Freeze-dried
  • Cage-free chicken, organic ingredients, nutrient rich
  • Made in the USA
Check Chewy Check Amazon

19. Best Low-Phosphorus: Blue Buffalo Veterinary Diet KS Canned Dog Food

Dogs with weak kidneys can’t remove excess phosphorous and other toxins from their bodies, and phosphorus can build up to dangerous levels over time. Excess phosphorus damages tissues, bones, and important internal organs. Your vet will probably suggest a low-phosphorous diet for your senior dog if it is showing signs of developing kidney disease, which results in renal failure in its advanced stages.

Our selection as the best low-phosphorus food is the Blue Buffalo Veterinary Diet KS Canned Dog Food which scored high on quality ingredients, palatability, and affordability.

This food, which requires a veterinarian’s prescription, comes from a trusted brand known for its high quality. It is made from completely natural ingredients. It is grain-free and features 0.55% phosphorus and 0.8% calcium. It is also low in sodium and easy to digest too. This food also contains antioxidants, L-carnitine and omega 3 fatty acids to enhance your pet’s overall health.

Several reviewers said this was the easiest food they had ever tried to switch their dogs to eat, though a few reported that their dogs refused to eat it.

You can view more recommended low-phosphorus dog foods here.

Best Low-Phosphorus Food
Blue Buffalo Natural Veterinary Diet KS
  • A-Z animal's highest scoring low phosphorus dog food
  • Made with natural ingredients
  • Only contains .55% phosphorus and .8% calcium
  • Low sodium and easy to digest
Check Chewy Check Amazon

20. Best Low-Fat Dog Food: Wellness CORE Grain-Free Reduced Fat Turkey & Chicken Recipe

It may be tempting to feed your dog table scraps, especially when they’re looking up at you with those puppy eyes but fats, especially those in human food, are incredibly dangerous for dogs. Practicing vigilance around your pup, making sure all table scraps are disposed of properly, and keeping any trash away from the reach of your dog can all help with ensuring they don’t consume anything they shouldn’t. Then, to manage weight loss in obese pets you can focus on feeding them a low-fat diet so they can reach that healthy weight.

The best overall low-fat dog food is the Wellness CORE Grain-Free Reduced Fat Turkey and Chicken Recipe.

This formula is crafted for whole-body health and promotes leaner body mass and muscle tone. It includes omega fatty acids for healthy skin and coat and prebiotics and probiotics to support digestive health. The first ingredient in this recipe is deboned turkey. Alongside this high-quality protein source are carefully chosen fruits and vegetables that help your dog reach and maintain a healthy weight.

You can use this reduced-fat dog food for all breed sizes, so long as they are in the adult life stage. Along with probiotics and omega fatty acids, this recipe incorporates taurine for proper cardiac function and eye health along with glucosamine to support joint health. Typically, dogs that develop pancreatitis are also overweight. With his formula, you can help get your dog to a healthy weight so there’s less stress on their joints.

This recipe cuts grains, gluten, corn, wheat, and soy. Instead, it focuses on delivering a high-protein diet with reduced fat. Along with deboned turkey, this formula includes chicken and salmon oil.

Although this food has a lot going for it, some pet parents reported that their pets didn’t like it, while others claimed there was a lot of dust and crumbs in each bag.

You can find more low-fat dog food recommendations here.

Best Low-Fat Dog Food
Wellness CORE Grain-Free Reduced Fat Turkey & Chicken
  • Suitable for all breed sizes
  • Contains probiotics and omega fatty acids
  • High-protein diet
  • Includes chicken and salmon oil
Check Chewy Check Amazon

21. Best for Liver-Disease: Hill’s Prescription Liver Care Dog Food

Perhaps you have just been informed by your veterinarian that your dog has liver disease. Now what? It might take a lot to familiarize yourself with this new condition to help your dog. One of the adjustments that will be required will be diet. However, you might be wondering how to find the most appropriate diet to help your dog manage their ailment.

Hill’s Prescription Liver Care Dog Food is our selection as the best food for dogs with liver disease.

This product uses a recipe designed specifically for liver disease in dogs. It was formulated to reverse the issue and regenerate the body of your dog. This product uses a recipe that helps remove toxins from the blood to allow digestion to flow effortlessly. It is also designed to promote immunity while regenerating vital tissues and providing adequate nutritional requirements. It contains a compound called S+OXSHEILD. This compound helps to reduce calcium oxalate crystals in your dog’s urinary tract.

The only notable drawback of this product is that some dogs may not like the taste.

You can find our full review of the best dog foods for liver-disease here.

Best for Liver Disease
Hill's Prescription Diet l/d Liver Care
  • Designed specifically for liver disease in dogs
  • Helps remove toxins from the blood
  • Promote immunity
  • Contains S+OXSHEILD that reduce calcium oxalate crystals
Check Chewy Check Amazon

22. Best for Large-Breed Puppies: Purina Pro Dry Puppy Food

Large breed puppies grow quickly – sometimes too fast to adjust to their new size! Large breed puppies need food that contains the right nutrients, such as glucosamine, to support developing cartilage and joints. The best puppy food for large breeds should also contain DHA for brain and eye development.

For those large-breed puppies we have selected the Purina Pro Dry Puppy Food as the best in the category.

This product comes in a chicken and rice flavor that most dogs enjoy. It also uses real chicken as its number one ingredient. Purina Pro Dry Puppy Food contains glucosamine for your puppy’s cartilages and joints, as well as DHA for brain and vision development. This product also contains whole grain wheat, which is better and provides more benefits than corn, which is usually substituted for whole-grain wheat. This great puppy food is fortified with guaranteed live probiotics to support a developing immune system.

The only drawback of this product is that it may cause diarrhea in some puppies. However, this product remains our top pick for the best dog food for large breed puppies.

You can find our other recommendations for the best large-breed dog food for puppies here.

Best for Large-Breed Puppies
Purina Pro Plan High Protein Chicken and Rice
  • Comes in chicken and rice flavor
  • Contains glucosamine for your puppy’s cartilages and joints
  • Uses whole grain wheat
  • Contains DHA for brain and vision development
Check Chewy Check Amazon

23. Best for Picky Eaters: Taste of the Wild High Prairie Grain-Free Dry Dog Food

Picky eaters can be difficult to feed and many dog parents have had this same challenge at one point or the other, so if your pooch is refusing to eat whatever you give them, you’re not alone.  Having a dog that’s fussy with food is no easy joke. Brand after brand will promise to provide dog food for your furry friend, but many times, they just won’t work!

We know that having a dog that is a picky eater can be frustrating, so that’s why we recommend the Taste of the Wild High Prairie Grain-Free Dry Dog Food.

This food contains real meat as the main ingredient (roasted bison and venison) which are are tasty choice to encourage even the fussiest dogs to eat. It contains 32% protein which helps to support lean muscles and healthy bones and joints. It is also packed full of vitamins and minerals from real fruit and superfoods to ensure that your pup thrives. It even contains probiotics, prebiotics, and antioxidants to promote a healthy digestive and immune system.

This food is grain-free which means it is also suitable for dogs with allergies. However, it is important to consider whether a grain-free diet is suitable for your pet before purchasing. Unfortunately, some customers have reported that it caused their pets to have diarrhea.

You can view our other reviewed dog food for picky eaters here.

Best for Picky Eaters
Taste of the Wild High Prairie Grain-Free Dry Dog Food
  • Contains bison and venison
  • Delicious dog-approved taste
  • High in protein
  • Contains vitamins and minerals from real fruits
Check Chewy Check Amazon

24. Best Dog Food for the American Bully: Bully Max High Performance Super Premium Dog Food

The American Bully is a recently created breed and was only recognized in 2004 by the American Bully Kennel Club (ABKC). They are highly adaptable and take well to training. These pets are natural athletes that can excel at sports, especially those that require lots of strength. Selecting the best dog food for the American Bully can help them reach their full potential while maintaining optimal health and weight for their current stage of life.  

Our choice for the best dog food for the American Bully is the Bully High Performance Super Premium Dog Food.

The first ingredient in this muscle-building recipe is meat. This high-protein, high-calorie kibble is formulated with the highest quality, human-grade ingredients available. It’s designed to meet the needs of adult dogs and puppies four weeks old and older.

This food contains 30% protein and 20% fat so your American Bully will have the energy they need to play and exercise. It contains 535 calories per cup – more than any other dog food in its class. Because this formula is so concentrated, you can feed your dog up to 50% less food, thus reducing the cost per serving. It is also completely free from corn, wheat, soy, artificial flavors, preservatives, or colors.

Unfortunately, this food is expensive so it’s not a good choice if you’re looking for a more budget-friendly food for your pet.

You can find our other recommended foods for the American Bully here.

Best for American Bully
Bully Max High Performance Super Premium Dog Food
  • High-protein, high-calorie food
  • Comprised of the highest quality, human-grade ingredients
  • The first ingredient is meat to build muscle
  • No corn, wheat, soy, artificial flavors, preservatives, or colors
Check Amazon

25. Best Dog Food for Australian Cattle Dogs (Blue Heelers): Blue Buffalo Wilderness High Protein Natural Adult Dry Dog Food

The Australian cattle dog, often known as the Blue Heeler, is a strong, tough, and petite hound developed for an active life. That means the ideal dog food for Blue Heelers is one that is strong in protein and fat, similar to their predecessors’ raw diets. You’ll have to feed them multiple times a day, and they’ll need a lot of food. An age-appropriate premium meal with enough protein and fat, as well as lean meats and nutritious veggies, will be excellent.

Our selection as the best food for Australian cattle dogs is the Blue Buffalo Wilderness High Protein Natural Dry Dog Food.

As Australian cattle dogs are active animals it is important to make sure that they get enough protein, and this food certainly does not disappoint.  This food is packed with tasty bits of real chicken which will not only satisfy your dog’s appetite, but will also help them to build lean muscle mass.

Another great thing about this kibble is that it’s grain-free and made with a mixture of healthy carbohydrates. Your dog will love the taste and nutrition of the peas and sweet potatoes. Making sure your dog’s joints, coat, and skin stay healthy is essential and the omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids in the food do just that! Your dog will also benefit from the blend of antioxidants, minerals, and vitamins in this food.

However, some pup parents have reported that this food is not good for dogs with allergies as it can exacerbate their itching.

You can find our other recommended foods for Australian Cattle Dogs here.

Best for Australian Cattle Dogs
Blue Buffalo Wilderness High Protein, Natural Adult Dry Food
  • Contains real chicken, sweet potatoes, and peas
  • Added omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids, and antioxidants
  • High protein option, best for active dogs
  • Made from the finest natural ingredients
Check Chewy Check Amazon

26. Best Dog Food for Australian Shepherds: Natural Balance Limited Ingredient Diet

Born to work, this energetic breed requires a higher fat content than your average canine to sustain them. Protein is also important to promote and maintain muscle growth, so you should make sure their food includes a high level of protein.

We have found the Natural Balance Limited Ingredient Diet to be the best dog food for Australian Shepherds as it contains no filler ingredients like corn, soy, or wheat.

This food is high in good protein such as venison, salmon, buffalo, and much more. It comes with ingredients such as sweet potato and flaxseed which are great for dogs with sensitive tummies. The amino acids and essential nutrients are perfect for Australian Shepherds and help to keep them and their immune system in tip-top shape.

When dogs are more prone to allergies, certain ingredients can make those allergies flare up. Coming in multiple sizes you can find a bag that fits in your home, whether you want to buy in bulk or not. There are also wet and dry options so you can make your dog happy even if they are a bit picky.

Unfortunately, some owners reported that their pets simply didn’t like it while some found that the kibble was too hard for some older pets to chew.

You can find our full review of the best food for Australian Shepherds here.

Best for Australian Shepherds
Natural Balance Limited Ingredient
  • No filler ingredients like corn, soy, or wheat
  • Has wet and dry options
  • High in protein like venison, salmon, buffalo
  • Contains amino acids
Check Chewy Check Amazon

27. Best Dog Food for Beagles: Stella & Chewy’s Wild Red Classic Kibble

Beagles were developed centuries ago to sniff out prey. That same nose is equally adept at sniffing out food, whether they need the calories or not. The caloric requirements of a dog that’s chasing prey are very different from the one that’s chasing a ball in the yard. So, you’ll need to keep a close eye on your dog’s food consumption and activity level to ensure that they don’t become obese.

Our choice for the best overall dog food for beagles is Stella & Chewy’s Wild Red Classic Wholesome Kibble.

Beagles need lots of protein to support their active lifestyle, whether they’re hunting, participating in canine sports, or just romping with your kids. This protein-rich kibble is filled with “whole prey” ingredients, including muscle meat, organ meats, and cartilage from chicken, turkey, and duck. In fact, 81% of the protein in this formula comes from animal sources.

This food supports your pet’s overall health with a blend of vitamins, minerals, and amino acids, including taurine for heart health. It contains no fillers, legumes, artificial colors, flavors, or preservatives so you can be content in knowing that your dog is only eating the very best quality food.

The only drawback to this product that we can find is that the kibble pieces are quite small which some customers say are not suited to larger dogs.

You can find our other recommended foods for beagles here.

Best Overall
Stella & Chewy's Classic Kibble
  • Packed full of protein with beef, pork, and lamb
  • Crafted without legumes or poultry
  • 81% of protein is from actual animal sources
  • "Whole prey” ingredients including muscle meat, organ meat, and cartilage
  • No fillers, artificial colors, artificial flavors, or preservatives.


Check Chewy

28. Best Dog Food for Border Collies: Hill’s Science Diet Adult Oral Care Dry Dog Food

Border collies are high-energy dogs that were bred to herd sheep on the rough terrain bordering England and Scotland. Researchers consider them to be the world’s most intelligent breed. If you own a border collie, you know that these dogs need lots of daily exercise. They excel at sports like obedience and agility training, which keep them physically and mentally stimulated. And feeding them the best dog food for border collies will ensure that they have the physical and mental energy they need to be their best. Since border collies are so active, we recommend that you give them food with at least 25% protein and 15% fat to accommodate their active lifestyles.

Our choice for the overall best dog food for border collies is Hill’s Science Diet Adult Oral Care Dry Dog Food.

This unique dry kibble is formulated with clinically proven interlocking fiber technology to remove plaque and tartar from your adult dog’s teeth while it freshens their breath.

In addition to improving oral care, this great-tasting recipe will support your border collie’s overall health and vitality. It’s made with natural ingredients, including real chicken protein as the first ingredient. Added vitamins, minerals, amino acids, and antioxidants provide the nutrition your dog needs to stay healthy during the prime of life. Plus, omega-6 fatty acids and vitamin E will keep your pal’s skin healthy and coat glowing.

Hill’s #1 veterinarian-recommended formulas are formulated by a team of specialists, including veterinarians, food scientists, and nutritionists to ensure that your pet gets the precise nutrition she needs at every stage of their life. They’re made in the U.S.A. and they never contain artificial colors, flavors, preservatives, or chicken by-product meal.

Unfortunately, the kibble pieces are quite large which means it is not suited to smaller or older dogs.

You can find our other recommended foods for border collies here.

Best for Border Collies
Hill's Science Diet Adult Oral Care Dry Dog Food
  • Made with natural ingredients
  • Added vitamins, minerals, amino acids, and antioxidants
  • Veterinarian-recommended
  • Remove plaque and tartar
Check Chewy Check Amazon

29. Best Dog Food for Boxers: Royal Canin Breed Health Nutrition Boxer Dog Food

Boxers are quite the muscular breed and they are always ready to play. Some specific difficulties these dogs potentially face in their lifetimes are dental issues and dilated cardiomyopathy (DCM). Feeding your boxer dry food can help scrape off dental tartar as they chew, building jaw strength in the process. It is also important to look out for grain-free diets, especially exotic, boutique foods, that may exacerbate or cause DCM. Some grains are beneficial to this breed, along with whole-food ingredients.

We have selected the Royal Canin Breed Health Nutrition Boxer Dog Food as the best food for boxers.

Royal Canin is specifically made for boxers and can meet their unique nutritional needs. The manufacturer says that this recipe will keep your boxer in shape, burn fat, and avoid common cardiac health issues that plague these pups.

This food is packed with incredible proteins and fats to keep your pet healthy. It also contains chondroitin and glucosamine to support joint health. Plus, it’s packed full of vitamins and minerals to make it a top-notch food for your pet.

However, it’s important to mention that this food is specifically for dogs that are at least 15 months old which means it is unsuitable for puppies.

Have a look at our list of the best food for boxers here.

Best for Boxers
Royal Canin Breed Health Nutrition Boxer Adult Loaf in Sauce
  • Specifically made for Boxers and their nutritional needs
  • Packed with proteins and fats that keep Boxers healthy
  • Contains chondroitin and glucosamine that support joint health
  • Extra added vitamins and antioxidants
Check Chewy Check Amazon

30. Best Dog Food for Cane Corsos: Purina Pro Plan Large Breed Beef & Rice Wet Dog Food

Cane Corsos are giant dogs with a lot of strength. Cane Corsos spend most of their time playing, exercising, or working. Therefore, they require the right nutrients in their diet to supplement their active lifestyle. Also, because of the Cane Corso’s size they can be susceptible to hip dysplasia. It is therefore good to include food in your dog’s diet that will maintain bone and joint health.

In our review, the best dog food for the Cane Corso is the Purina Pro Plan Large Breed Beef & Rice Wet Dog Food.

This product is specially formulated for large breeds like the Cane Corso, and it includes quality protein from beef and chicken which is aimed at promoting quality muscle development. This food is also enriched with 23 essential vitamins and minerals to provide only the very best quality food for your pet. It is also completely free from fillers and artificial colors, flavors, and preservatives.

Unfortunately, some owners have reported that their pet didn’t like it and that the gravy is too runny.

Have a look at the list of the best food for Cane Corsos that we compiled here.

Best for Cane Corso
Purina Pro Plan Wet Dog Food for Large Dogs
  • Specially formulated for large breeds
  • Enriched with vitamins and omega-6 fatty acids
  • Contains beef and chicken
  • Support healthy joints and strong bones
Check Amazon

31. Best Dog Food for Chihuahuas: Royal Canin Breed Health Nutrition Chihuahua Adult Dry Dog Food

The small but mighty chihuahua is no exception to needing a healthy diet. Because they are so small, it is easy for them to become overweight. Feeding a high-quality diet consisting of small, chewable kibble is preferable, easier to chew, and good for dental hygiene. It’s important to monitor the amount of food you are feeding to avoid weight gain and keep your pet healthy and happy.

Our choice for the best overall dog food for adult Chihuahuas is the Royal Canin Breed Health Nutrition Chihuahua Adult Dry Dog Food.

This dry dog food is formulated to meet the nutritional needs of purebred Chihuahuas eight months and older.This recipe features an exclusive kibble that’s easy for Chihuahuas to pick up and chew. It’s highly palatable and enticing with delicious aromas and flavors to satisfy picky appetites. It will support your pup’s skin and coat health with omega-3 EPA and DHA and biotin. It will even help to reduce stool odor with highly digestible proteins and precise fiber content.

However, the drawbacks of this food is that it is expensive and some pup parents have reported that their picky eaters do not like it.

Have a look at our article about the best food for chihuahuas here.

Best for Chihuahuas
Royal Canin Breed Health Nutrition Chihuahua Adult Dry Dog Food
  • Formulated to meet the nutritional needs of purebred Chihuahuas
  • Features an exclusive kibble that is easy for Chihuahuas to pick up and chew
  • Support your pup’s skin and coat health with omega-3 EPA and DHA and biotin
  • Highly palatable
Check Chewy Check Amazon

32. Best Dog Food for Corgis: Blue Buffalo Life Protection Formula Natural Adult Small Breed

If you own a corgi then you know that these feisty dogs may be short, but they are agile and quick, physically strong and athletic, mentally bright, emotionally sensitive and affectionate, but not overly needy. They also make great watchdogs due to their bold barks.

Not surprisingly, the corgi is a breed with special nutritional needs. The challenge is to find a dog food that will that help your pet maintain a healthy weight while sustaining its energy level.

Our #1 Best Overall choice for feeding your corgi is the Blue Buffalo Life Protection Formula Natural Adult Small Breed food.

One of the things that impressed us the most about Blue Buffalo Life Protection Formula was the use of real meat or chicken as the first ingredient. The non-meat ingredients include whole grains, vegetables, and fruit.

This option is perfect for dogs the size of a corgi because of the smaller kibble. Increased carbohydrate and protein levels in vet-recommended amounts help meet this breed’s high energy needs.

An antioxidant, vitamin, and mineral base similar to what is in many organic foods help boost your dog’s immune system. There are no preservatives, artificial flavors, or by-products. This kibble also contains no corn, soy, or wheat.

Some reviewers reported dogs having digestive upsets when eating this food and mild problems in dogs with sensitive skin. Aside from these incidents, most of the reviewers were pleased.

You can find our other recommended dog food for corgis here.

Best for Corgis
Blue Buffalo Life Protection Formula Adult Dry Dog Food
  • Essential, high-quality protein for healthy muscle development, and carbs for energy for an active life.
  • Calcium, phosphorus and essential vitamins for strong bones and teeth.
  • Glucosamine is added for joint health and mobility support.
  • Vitamins, chelated minerals and antioxidants contribute to your pup's immune system health.
  • No corn, wheat, soy or chicken (or poultry) by-product meals.


Check Chewy Check Amazon

33. Best Dog Food for Dachshunds: Royal Canin Breed Health Nutrition Dachshund Adult Dry Dog Food

Dachshunds are some of the most loyal dogs and deserve to be fed as such. These hot-dog-like pups can develop joint problems over time as a result of their cute but elongated body structures, so look for small breed dog foods that supplement bone and joint health. It is essential to maintain a healthy weight in this breed to not add stress to their backs and hips, so monitor feeding closely. Additionally, if dachshunds begin experiencing pain or discomfort when bending to use the bathroom, they may not be able to express their anal sacs normally, leading to foul odor and potential infection of these glands. Owners may want to discuss a more fiber-filled diet or fiber supplementation with their veterinarian. 

In our research we have found that the Royal Canin Breed Health Nutrition Dachshund Adult Dry Dog Food is the overall best for dachshunds as it is created specifically for this breed.

This food is specifically designed for dogs aged ten months and older and is formulated to need the needs of dachshunds. This food uses a precise protein content to  support the lower muscle tone of this breed. It also has specialized kibble shapes which are a perfect size for these small dogs to pick up and chew.

The addition of calcium and phosphorus to this food is aimed at supporting the small limbs and longer backbone of dachshunds. It also contains highly digestible proteins and a precise fiber content to make this food the very best for your small pal.

However, although this food has a lot going for it, it is expensive. Also, some owners have reported that their pets do not like to eat it unless they have no other choice.

We compiled a list of food for your dachshund that you can access here.

Best for Dachshunds
Royal Canin Breed Health Nutrition Dachshund Adult Dry Dog Food
  • Royal Canin Dachshund Adult Dry Dog Food formulated for purebred Dachshunds 10 months and older
  • Unique kibble shape for Dachshunds
  • Fortified with Calcium and phosphorus for healthy joints, bones, and long backbone
  • Protein content and L-carnitine for muscle support


Check Chewy Check Amazon

34. Best Dog Food For Dobermans: Diamond Naturals Light Formula Dry Dog Food

Dobermans have superb physical built and are also very intelligent. They are very protective and are widely used as guard dogs. They are very easy to train and get on well with the rest of the family, including children and other pets. Dobermans are generally very healthy dogs. They are, however, prone to cervical vertebral instability and hip dysplasia. They should therefore be given food that supports resilient bones and joints.

Our choice for the best overall dog food for Dobermans is Diamond Naturals Light Formula Dry Dog Food.

This kibble is formulated with 15% fewer calories for less active or overweight dogs. It includes added glucosamine and chondroitin for joints and L-carnitine to convert fat to energy, making it the perfect recipe for helping your dog attain and maintain healthy body weight while consuming adequate nutrition.

This delicious formula is enhanced with superfoods like chia seeds, coconut, and flaxseed that are rich in omega fatty acids that are essential to your doberman’s healthy skin and shiny coat. A pasture-raised lamb protein, the first ingredient, and quinoa provide protein for strong bones, muscle growth, and abundant energy to keep your dog fit and active. Plus, all of Diamond Naturals dry dog foods are formulated with antioxidants and their proprietary K9 strain probiotics, and prebiotics to support your dog’s overall wellness, digestive, and immune system health.

Unfortunately, some a small number of customers found that this food caused their pets to develop dry and itchy skin.

We did also compile a list of other food that is good for your doberman, which you can access here.

Best for Dobermans
Diamond Naturals Light Formula Dry Dog Food
  • Made in the USA using quality ingredients from trusted domestic and global sources.
  • Real pasture-raised lamb protein as the #1 ingredient, supports the needs of less active and overweight dogs.
  • Omega fatty acids for skin and coat health
  • Vitamins and minerals from superfoods, including fruits like blueberries and oranges.
  • Includes probiotics, antioxidants and prebiotics to support healthy digestion, immune system health and overall wellness.
  • No corn, wheat, artificial flavors or colors.


Check Chewy Check Amazon

35. Best Dog Food for English Bulldogs: Royal Canin Breed Health Nutrition Bulldog Adult Dog Food

The English bulldog is a very good family dog. It is very calm, loving, and doesn’t become aggressive. It can be a bit territorial, though, and need to be trained from an early age. They will defend their family against intruders. The English Bulldog has a few health considerations, among which are hip dysplasia and a tendency towards obesity. It is therefore important to feed your dog the correct food.

In our review, the best dog food for adult English Bulldogs is the Royal Canin Breed Health Nutrition Bulldog Adult Dog Food.

This product contains specially-shaped kibbles designed to be easier for bulldogs to pick up than most other types of kibbles. This food is formulated to digest and produce healthy stools while reducing gas. It is also designed to support your dog’s skin and contains EPA and DHA to help support joint health and maintain overall body weight.

The only notable drawback of this product is that it is quite expensive and may not be ideal for all budgets.

We also listed a few other foods which are good for your English Bulldog here.

Best for English Bulldogs
Royal Canin Breed Health Nutrition Bulldog
  • Specially-shaped kibbles designed to be easier for Bulldogs to pick up
  • Designed to aid digestion and reduce gas production
  • Contains EPA and DHA to help support joint health
  • Supports a healthy weight
Check Chewy Check Amazon

36. Best Dog Food for French Bulldogs: Natural Balance Limited Ingredient Diet Dog Food

Not only are these dogs adorable in looks, but their personalities are also unmatched. However, being brachycephalic (“smush-faced”), French bulldogs struggle with certain health issues, such as poor dental hygiene due to problematic bites. Feeding dry food is usually a good idea in these cases to prevent tartar buildup and keep the jaws strong. Again, small breeds require high-quality, nutrient-dense foods in small amounts to maintain energy levels without weight gain. Unfortunately, these little guys are prone to several other problems, like upset stomachs, skin issues, and mobility problems. Foods providing specific nutrients for preventing these issues may help your Frenchie in the long run.

In our review, the overall best food for French Bulldogs is the Natural Balance Limited Ingredient Diet Dog Food.

This product is a special small-dog recipe that does away with grains and legumes such as pea protein, lentils, corn, wheat, and soy. This was done because these grains and legumes are notorious for causing bad reactions. This product also uses natural alternative protein sources like a duck that offer nourishment even to dogs allergic to ingredients like chicken.

However, it includes nutritious ingredients such as flaxseed and sweet potatoes to create a healthy and top-quality diet for your pet.

Although this food largely received only good reviews, a small number of pet parents were dissatisfied due to their pets refusing to eat it.

You can view the full list of the best food for your French Bulldog here.

Best for French Bulldogs
Natural Balance Limited Ingredient Diet
  • Contains no grains and legumes
  • Features natural alternative protein sources like a duck
  • Specifically suited for small breeds and French Bulldogs
  • Comes with Natural Balance’s ‘Buy With Confidence’ guarantee
Check Amazon

37. Best Dog Food for German Shepherds: Royal Canin Breed Health Nutrition German Shepherd Dog Food

Seemingly stoic, German Shepherds have a surprising amount of energy for their size. Finding food that promotes energy and brain functioning is best for this breed. Due to their slanted stature, hip problems such as hip dysplasia are common in this breed. Therefore, it is a good idea to provide nutrients supporting joint and bone health from an early age.

In our review, the overall best dog food for German Shepherds is the Royal Canin Breed Health Nutrition German Shepherd Dog Food.

This food is especially formulated to meet the needs of German Shepherds. Royal Canin brand has always been committed to giving dog breeds optimal energy. This food contains highly digestible proteins and fibers to boost your German Shepherd’s digestive system. It also includes glucosamine and chondroitin which supports muscle and joint health, thus preventing the occurrence of bone and joint conditions like hip dysplasia. The presence of EPA and DHA from fish oil also promotes a healthy skin and coat.

Unfortunately, a few customers complained that the kibble pieces are too large and hard for some dogs.

Have a look at our complete list of foods for German Shepherds here.

Best for German Shepherds
Royal Canin Breed Health Nutrition German Shepherd
  • Rich in fiber
  • Supports muscle and joint health
  • Boosts immunity and muscle and brain growth
  • Especially formulated for German Shepherds
Check Chewy Check Amazon

38. Best Dog Food for Golden Retrievers: Royal Canin Golden Retriever Adult Dry Dog Food

Golden retrievers are probably the definition of “man’s best friend” with their kind demeanor, love for cuddles, impeccable ability to play, and easy-going attitude towards kids and other dogs. One reason this breed may require a specific diet is that they are prone to developing bone cancers at an earlier age than other breeds, so a diet promoting good bone health is essential. Skin issues as a result of food allergies are also something to keep an eye on for this breed. Golden retrievers also experience high rates of obesity, so monitoring caloric intake and energy output are crucial to keeping these dogs healthy.

Royal Canin Golden Retriever Adult Dry Dog Food is our selection as the best overall food for golden retrievers.

This dog food was made specifically for golden retrievers and is designed to meet the nutritional needs of these gorgeous, friendly dogs 15 months and older. The specialized kibble is designed for your golden retrievers straight muzzle and scissor bite to encourage chewing (less gobbling up half-chewed food!). Additionally, this formula includes essential nutrients to  support a healthy skin and coat. Your favorite pal’s heart health is supported with taurine, EPA, and DHA, which all help to promote healthy cardiac function. Also, you won’t have to worry about your pet gaining weight with this food because it has precise calories and fat content designed specifically for big dogs. This extra attention to the formula helps to support your dog’s weight management.

However, the downside to this product is that it is expensive at more than $60 per bag.

We compiled a complete list of all the best food for golden retrievers here.

Best for Golden Retrievers
Royal Canin Breed Health Nutrition Golden Retriever
  • Designed to meet the nutritional needs of Golen Retrievers
  • Contain essential nutrients to support his healthy skin and coat
  • Taurine, EPA, and DHA help to promote healthy cardiac function
  • Kibble is larger than usual, helping your dog to eat slower
Check Chewy Check Amazon

39. Best Dog Food for Goldendoodles: Stella & Chewy’s Classic Kibble

A poodle-golden retriever, this dog is truly the best of both worlds. Playful and fun-loving but loyal and patient, this breed loves its people and its food. Unfortunately, this designer breed can be known for sensitive stomachs, rejecting many foods or ingredients. Specific brands do have recipes made for this issue but that also maintain energy levels and the needs of large-breed dogs. Dry food is a good option for this large breed.

For the best overall dog food for Goldendoodles we recommend Stella and Chewy’s Classic Kibble as it provides a wholesome option.

This classic, wholesome grain recipe contains meat from three animal protein sources: chicken, duck, and turkey. It’s formulated to be nutrient-dense using “whole prey” ingredients, which include muscle meat, organ meats, and cartilage. 81% of the protein in this recipe comes from animal sources. Additionally, these proteins are sourced responsibly from cage-free chicken and duck. It’s also free of legumes and made with wholesome grains.

You won’t find any potatoes, peas, lentils, by-product meals, artificial colors, flavors, or preservatives in the ingredients list. Instead, this formula is expertly designed to support your goldendoodle’s whole body health. It’s fortified with all the vitamins and minerals your dog needs to thrive while offering healthy fiber from sources like sweet potatoes to support your pup’s healthy digestion. Goldendoodles, especially when they grow to a large size, need extra hip and joint support so there are naturally occurring glucosamine and chondroitin included in the recipe to support healthy joints. Goldendoodles are known for their skin and coat appearance so omega fatty acids from flaxseed and salmon oil are a must to support coat health.

However, the kibble pieces are small which some dogs do not like and can find difficult to eat.

You can view the rest of our recommended food for goldendoodles here.

Best for Goldendoodles
Stella & Chewy's Classic Kibble
  • Packed full of protein with beef, pork, and lamb
  • Crafted without legumes or poultry
  • 81% of protein is from actual animal sources
  • "Whole prey” ingredients including muscle meat, organ meat, and cartilage
  • No fillers, artificial colors, artificial flavors, or preservatives.


Check Chewy

40. Best Dog Food for Great Danes: Nutro Ultra Large Breed Adult Dry Dog Food

Great Danes are easygoing and affectionate, making them wonderful family pets. They only require moderate daily exercise and are easy to train. Great Danes are, unfortunately, prone to gastric dilatation-volvulus, more commonly known as bloat, and owners should guard against this with the correct diet.

Our choice for the overall best dog food for Great Danes is the Nutro Ultra Large Breed Adult Dry Dog Food.

This food features a trio of delicious, high-quality proteins from chicken, lamb, and salmon, whole grains and seeds, and 15 superfoods like chia, kale, and blueberries to help your dog thrive.

High-quality protein is the foundation of all of Nutro’s recipes. Chicken is the first ingredient in this kibble that’s full of flavor and formulated specifically for adult, ultra-large breed dogs like Great Danes. Nutro’s formulas are made from non-GMO ingredients and they never include chicken by-product meal, corn, wheat, or soy protein, artificial flavors, colors, or preservatives.

Unfortunately, some owners have reported issues with their pets not wanting to eat the food, while others have found that the kibble size is too small for larger pets who sometimes swallow them rather than chewing them.

We had a look at all the best foods for Great Danes and made a list here.

Best for Great Danes
Nutro Ultra Large Breed Adult Dry Dog Food
  • Lamb and brown rice recipe for large dog breeds
  • Contains glucosamine and chondroitin to support healthy joints
  • Antioxidants for immune health
Check Chewy Check Amazon

41. Best Dog Food for Labrador Retrievers: Royal Canin Breed Health Nutrition Labrador Retriever Adult Dry Dog Food

Labrador Retrievers are often portrayed in movies as the ultimate family dog, and rightly so. Labs can be trained to do just about anything, a tribute to their brilliance and loyalty. However, these dogs are known to be food crazy, often exhibiting begging behaviors more often than other breeds, potentially becoming overweight, and developing other health issues because of this. Monitor the food intake of your lab and know they are not actually starving, they just love food a little too much. Labs are also prone to allergies caused by ingredients such as corn, soy, beef, fish, wheat, and chicken, so getting food without those ingredients may be important for your dog’s well-being.

Our choice for the best overall dog food for adult Labrador Retrievers is the Royal Canin Breed Health Nutrition Labrador Retriever Adult Dry Dog Food.

This dry dog food is formulated specifically to meet the nutritional needs of purebred Labrador Retrievers that are 15 months and older. This dry dog food will help your pet to maintain their ideal weight with precise calorie and fat content tailored for Labradors. It will support your large dog’s bone and joint health with EPA, DHA, and glucosamine. Plus, its exclusive donut-shaped kibble is designed specifically to encourage your Lab to chew and eat food slowly. However, some owners have reported that the kibble pieces are too large for their pets to eat.

We also compiled a list of other food that is good for Labrador Retrievers here.

Best for Labrador Retrievers
Royal Canin Breed Health Nutrition Labrador Retriever
  • Meet the nutritional needs of purebred Labrador Retrievers
  • Support bone and joint health with EPA, DHA, and glucosamine
  • Exclusive donut-shaped kibble encourage the dog to chew and eat food slowly
  • Precise calorie and fat content for labs
Check Chewy Check Amazon

42. Best Dog Food for Maltese: Natural Balance Limited Ingredient Dog Food

Maltese are very good family dogs. Their loving, playful, gentle, and affectionate nature makes them very good companions. Maltese are overall very healthy dogs, but they can, however, suffer from obesity and digestive or metabolic disorders. It is therefore important to give the correct food to your dog to keep them healthy. We have done the research about the best food for your maltese, be it a puppy or older dog.

In our review, the best dog food for maltese dogs is Natural Balance Limited Ingredient Dog Food.

This product is specially formulated for small breed dogs and focuses on maintaining digestive health, skin, and coat health. This product is also designed to reduce the number of ingredients your dog is exposed to.

This product uses natural ingredients and uses lamb meal and brown rice as its main ingredients. This product offers 12% crude fat and 4% crude fiber. It has a protein analysis of 21%, which is suitable for your pet. By using natural ingredients such as chicken and lamb instead of empty calorie fillers, your dog will feel full and less likely to overeat. This food also minimizes the number of ingredients used to reduce allergies and food sensitivities.

The major drawback of this product is that it contains tomato pomace, a debatable dog food ingredient. However, this company provides a 100% guarantee on its dog food, and each production is tested to ensure its safety.

Have a look at the complete list of food for maltese dogs here.

Best for Maltese
Natural Balance L.I.D. Limited Ingredient
  • Specially formulated for small breed dogs
  • Maintains digestive health, skin, and coat health
  • Contains natural ingredients like chicken and lamb
  • Produced in the USA
Check Chewy Check Amazon

43. Best Dog Food for Pitbulls: Annamaet Ultra 32% Dry Dog Food

Pitbulls are also inclined to become overweight or obese, leading to detrimental health problems like joint problems, metabolic, or digestive disorders. They are also a classic example of skin issues with itchy and irritated skin, often onset by allergies to specific proteins or ingredients in foods. Therefore, it is important to feed a diet that avoids harmful ingredients and promotes overall wellness and energy for these pups.

Taking the crown for the overall best dog food for pitbulls is the Annamaet Ultra 32% Dry Dog Food.

This food is great for dogs of all ages, including puppies. The top ingredients in this food are chicken meal, chicken fat, dry eggs, brown rice, and herring meal. It’s high in protein and low in carbs, creating a perfect balance for your pitbull’s diet. It also contains omega-3 fats that can be beneficial to your dog’s vision, joints, coat, and skin.

This food is made without wheat, soy, or corn which means it is suitable for many dogs with allergies. There are also plenty of probiotics in this food to promote healthy digestion.

However, this food is expensive so it’s not budget-friendly. Also, a small number of customers found that it gave their pets diarrhea.

You can find our other recommended dog foods for pitbulls here.

Best for Pitbulls
Annamaet Ultra 32% Dry Dog Food
  • Great for dogs of all ages, including puppies
  • High in protein and low in carbs
  • Made without wheat, soy, or corn
  • Contains plenty of probiotics
Check Chewy Check Amazon

44. Best Dog Food for Pomeranians: Royal Canin Breed Health Nutrition Pomeranian Adult Dry Dog Food

Pomeranians are very smart, active little dogs who are actually descended from sled dogs. Although Pomeranians are very healthy dogs, they are prone to inflammatory bowel disease (which reduces nutrient absorption) and lymphangiectasia (leakage in the intestines). It is therefore important that they get the best nutrition to keep them healthy.

The best overall dog food for Pomeranians is the Royal Canin Breed Health Nutrition Pomeranian Adult Dry Dog Food.

This nutritious high-quality food is specifically made for your pomeranian with a small kibble size which is easier for them to eat while also helping to reduce tartar buildup.

This food contains a balanced blend of fiber and protein which helps to promote healthy digestion, while key nutrients help support your pomeranian’s delicate joints, knees, and bones. This dry dog food is also enriched with EPA and DHA for nourished skin and a healthy coat.

Unfortunately, the kibble size is quite small which is not suitable for all pets as they can swallow it rather than chewing it.

Please also have a look at the list we compiled of other food that is good for your Pomeranian here.

Best for Pomeranans
Royal Canin Breed Health Nutrition Pomeranian Adult Dry Dog Food
  • Specifically formulated for the nutritional needs of your purebred Pomeranian
  • A balanced blend of fiber and protein
  • Enriched with EPA and DHA
  • Nutritious high-quality food
Check Chewy Check Amazon

45. Best Dog Food for Poodles

Poodles are very smart and affectionate and make a great pet! They are very easy to train, but are, unfortunately, prone to quite a few health problems, one of which is bloating. It is therefore very important to feed your poodle the correct food, designed especially for the special needs of these loveable dogs.

Our selection as the best for poodles is the Royal Canin Poodle Adult Breed Specific Dry Dog Food which is uniquely formulated to meet the nutritional requirements of purebred poodles 10 months old and older.

There are many excellent features to this food and it starts with the shape of the kibble, which poodles can pick up easily with their long, straight snouts. Each delicious, crunchy bite is filled with a precise blend of proteins to build and maintain muscles. It also contains EPA and DHA fatty acids from fish oils to ensure that your pet’s skin and coat are healthy. Another great thing about this food is that you can serve it dry, with water, or mix it with Royal Canin Poodle Wet Dog Food for variety.  

Unfortunately, this food is expensive which some pet parents found difficult to stomach when a small number of dogs refused to eat it.

You can find the full list of dog food for your poodle here.

Best for Poodles
Royal Canin Breed Health Nutrition Poodle Adult Dry Dog Food
  • Contains EPA and DHA fatty acids
  • Specially formulated for Poodles
  • Shape of kibble makes it easy to pick up
  • Antioxidants support healthy aging
Check Chewy Check Amazon

46. Best Dog Food for Pugs: Royal Canin Breed Health Nutrition Pug Adult Dry Dog Food

With their goofy appearance, pugs are friends with everyone. They are affectionate, loyal little dogs who love their family and get on well with others. They are, however, prone to some health problems like obesity, cancer, and skin conditions. It is therefore very important to feed your dog the correct food, formulated especially for small dogs.

The best dog food for pugs is the Royal Canin Breed Health Nutrition Pug Adult Dry Dog Food.

This dry food is specially formulated to meet the nutritional requirements of purebred pugs that are at least 10 months old. Plus, the kibble is designed to be easy for your pup to pick up with their short, blunt, square muzzle.

Since the breed is prone to weight gain, this recipe features a balanced formula to help your pet maintain their optimal body weight. It contains adapted protein content to maintain muscle tone and added L-carnitine, which supports muscles by turning fat into energy. In addition, EPA and DHA from fish oil will keep your pug’s skin and coat in peak condition, so they looks as good on the outside as they feel on the inside.

Although this food has got a lot going for it, it is expensive and some owners have reported that their pets simply do not like it.

You can find our other top choices for pugs here.

Best for Pugs
Royal Canin Breed Health Nutrition Pug Adult Dry Dog Food
  • Specially formulated for purebred Pugs
  • Help maintain optimal body weight
  • The kibble is easy to pick up with their square muzzles
  • Added L-carnitine for turning fat into energy
Check Chewy Check Amazon

47. Best Dog Food For Rottweilers: Royal Canin Breed Health Nutrition Rottweiler Adult Formula

Rottweilers are large, muscular dogs. They are loyal and can make great guard dogs. However, due to their size and stature, they are prone to health issues that may not plague smaller dogs. Puppies require much more protein and calcium than other dog breeds as they are growing. We recommend choosing dog food with at least 80% lean animal protein as the main ingredient.

Our selection as the best dog food for rottweilers is the Royal Canin Breed Health Nutrition Rottweiler Adult Formula.

This food is specially designed to meet the needs of rottweilers over the age of 18 months. It features larger kibble bits to make eating and digestion slower and to avoid vomiting. However, the large kibble pieces can be difficult for some pets to eat. The high ratio of protein from animal sources and L-carnitine supports muscle growth.  It also contains taurine, EPA, and DHA from fish oil which promotes a healthy heart as well as good bone and joint health.

You can find our other recommended foods for rottweilers here.

Best for Rottweilers
Royal Canin Breed Health Nutrition Rottweiler Adult Formula
  • Specialized Formula For Rottweilers
  • Larger kibble for slower intake and digestion
  • Higher protein and L-Carnitine content to support muscle growth
Check Chewy

48. Best Dog Food for Shih Tzus: Royal Canin Breed Health Nutrition Shih Tzu Adult Dry Dog Food

Shi Tzus are meant to be pampered lap dogs and they know it. Only requiring a medium amount of exercise, these small, fluffy dogs spend a lot of their time with or on their owners. They can also be picky eaters, not enjoying certain tastes or as a result of a sensitive stomach. A very high-quality diet is best for these canines, along with small portions monitored so that they do not become overweight.

Our choice for the best overall dog food for adult shih tzus is the Royal Canin Breed Health Nutrition Shih Tzu Adult Dry Dog Food.

This dry dog food is formulated to meet the nutritional needs of purebred shih tzus aged 10 months and older. This recipe features an exclusive kibble shape designed specifically for a shih tzu’s short muzzle and adorable underbite. It will support your pup’s skin health with an exclusive complex of nutrients including EPA, DHA, and vitamin A and maintain their soft, long coat with a combination of omega-3 fatty acids, omega-6 fatty acids, and biotin. It will even reduce the number of stools and stool odor with highly digestible proteins, precise fiber content, and high-quality carbohydrate sources.

The only drawback to this product that we can find is that a small number of owners have found that is gives their pets diarrhea.

You can find our full list of dog food for shih tzus here.

Best for Shih Tzus
Royal Canin Breed Health Nutrition Shih Tzu Adult Dry Dog Food
  • Formulated to meet the nutritional needs of purebred Shih Tzus
  • Kibble shape designed specifically for a Shih Tzu’s short muzzle and underbite
  • Maintain your Shih Tzu’s long coat with omega-3 fatty acids, omega-6 fatty acids, and biotin
  • Contains highly digestible proteins
Check Chewy Check Amazon

49. Best Dog Food for Siberian Huskies: Blue Buffalo Wilderness High Protein Adult Dry Dog Food

When they are not rolling around outside or talking back to their owners, these giant fuzzballs are probably playing somewhere. Full of energy and attitude, huskies make great companions. As for their diet, it can be tricky, as this breed is predisposed to Inflammatory Bowel Disease (IBD) in which it becomes difficult for nutrients to be absorbed in the intestines due to thickened lining. Inflammation can be treated similarly to food allergies and foods given to dogs with allergies are often recommended. Also, look to choose a diet for the correct size and age of your pet along with foods that help promote good joint and bone health over time.

In our review, the best dog food for Siberian huskies is the Blue Buffalo Wilderness High Protein Adult dry dog food.

This high protein option is best for Siberian huskies because they are so active.

This food has meat as its main protein source, with real chicken, sweet potatoes, and peas. The omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids, as well as the proprietary Lifesource bits which are full of antioxidants, help keep your dog’s thick coat in great shape. This is some of the most natural dog food that you can find that still comes in an easy-to-use-and-store kibble form that can be found in many mainstream retail stores or online.

However, some customers have reported that their pets don’t like the larger kibble pieces and only eat the smaller ones.

We compiled a complete list of the best food for Siberian huskies here.

Best for Siberian Huskies
Blue Buffalo Wilderness High Protein, Natural Adult Dry Food
  • Contains real chicken, sweet potatoes, and peas
  • Added omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids, and antioxidants
  • High protein option, best for active dogs
  • Made from the finest natural ingredients
Check Chewy Check Amazon

50. Best Dog Food for Yorkies: Hill’s Science Diet Dry Dog Food

Their stature may be tiny but their personalities are not. Yorkies are great travel-sized companions, patiently riding in purses and snuggling up on their owner’s laps. As a very small breed, these dogs need highly nutrient-dense food packed into small, bite-sized kibbles. Feeding your Yorkie a dry food diet will greatly aid in preventing periodontal disease, an issue that can lead to teeth and bone loss in the mouth if not prevented throughout their lifetime. Yorkies may also be prone to pancreatitis, so try to limit fatty wet foods and stay away from table scraps.

Our choice for the best overall dog food for adult Yorkies is Hill’s Science Diet Dry Dog Food.

This highly rated, veterinarian-recommended dog food is formulated by food scientists for adult small breeds and it’s made with highly digestible ingredients that are easy on your Yorkie’s stomach.

This food provides high-quality protein to maintain lean muscle in small breed dogs from ages one to six. The recipe includes an antioxidant blend specifically for lifelong immune support in toy and miniature dogs, while the small kibble is suited for a little canine mouth.

This food is made from natural ingredients, including nourishing omega-6 fatty acids and vitamin E that help promote healthy skin and a shiny coat. Additionally, it does not include artificial colors or flavors.

The only drawback to this product that we can find is that customers have reported that it is not suitable for picky eaters as they are still reluctant to eat it.

Read more about the best dog food for Yorkies here.

Best for Yorkies
Hill's Science Diet Adult Small Paws Dry Dog Food
  • Highly rated and veterinarian-recommended
  • Made with highly digestible ingredients
  • Includes an antioxidant blend specifically for lifelong immune support
  • Contains omega-6 fatty acids and vitamin E
Check Chewy Check Amazon

The Best Dogs Foods: Summary

Choosing any food depends on your dog’s personal preferences and needs. It’s also important to remember that the dietary requirement of dogs can even vary between different breeds or based on their activity level. No dog food is equal, so it’s a good idea to thoroughly research the ingredients when choosing one for your pet. We hope that this product review has given you a useful insight into what to look for, as well as narrowed down the choices for you.

Best Dog Food Reviews Summary

Up Next…

Best forProduct
Best OverallStella & Chewy’s Classic Kibble
Best Dry FoodHill’s Science Diet Adult Perfect Digestion Large Breed Chicken Dry Dog Food
Best Wet FoodPurina ONE SmartBlend Canned Dog Food
Best for PuppiesWellness Complete Health Puppy Dry Food
Best for Small DogsTaste of the Wild Appalachian Valley Small Breed Grain-Free Dry Dog Food
Best for Large DogsTaste of the Wild Pacific Stream Grain-Free Dry Dog Food
Best for SeniorsBlue Buffalo Life Protection Formula Senior Chicken & Brown Rice Recipe
Best for AllergiesCANIDAE Grain-Free PURE Limited Ingredient Dry Dog Food
Best for Sensitive StomachsHill’s Science Diet Adult Sensitive Stomach & Skin Dry Dog Food
Most AffordableRachael Ray Nutrish PEAK Open Prairie Recipe with Beef, Venison & Lamb Natural Grain-Free Dry Dog Food
Best for Weight-GainMiracle Vet High Calorie Dog Food
Best Specialty BrandJustFoodForDogs Fresh Frozen Dog Food
Best for Weight LossMerrick Healthy Grains Healthy Weight Dry Dog Food
Best Organic FoodCastor & Pollux ORGANIX Dry Dog Food
Best for SheddingPurina Pro Plan Adult Sensitive Skin & Stomach
Best Freeze-DriedTruDog Freeze-Dried Dog Food
Best Grain-FreeCrave High Protein Adult Grain Free Dry Dog Food
Best Legume-FreeNatural Balance Limited Ingredient Diets Grain-Free Dry Adult Dog Food
Best Yeast-FreeStella & Chewy’s Freeze-Dried Dinner Patties
Best Low-Phosphorus FoodBlue Buffalo Natural Veterinary Diet KS
Best Low-Fat Dog FoodWellness CORE Grain-Free Reduced Fat Turkey & Chicken
Best for Liver DiseaseHill’s Prescription Diet l/d Liver Care
Best for Large-Breed PuppiesPurina Pro Plan High Protein Chicken and Rice
Best for Picky EatersTaste of the Wild High Prairie Grain-Free Dry Dog Food
Best for American BullyBully Max High Performance Super Premium Dog Food
Best for Australian Cattle DogsBlue Buffalo Wilderness High Protein, Natural Adult Dry Food
Best for Australian ShepherdsNatural Balance Limited Ingredient
Best for Border ColliesHill’s Science Diet Adult Oral Care Dry Dog Food
Best for BoxersRoyal Canin Breed Health Nutrition Boxer Adult Loaf in Sauce
Best for Cane CorsoPurina Pro Plan Wet Dog Food for Large Dogs
Best for ChihuahuasRoyal Canin Breed Health Nutrition Chihuahua Adult Dry Dog Food
Best for CorgisBlue Buffalo Life Protection Formula Adult Dry Dog Food
Best for DachshundsRoyal Canin Breed Health Nutrition Dachshund Adult Dry Dog Food
Best for DobermansDiamond Naturals Light Formula Dry Dog Food
Best for English BulldogsRoyal Canin Breed Health Nutrition Bulldog
Best for French BulldogsNatural Balance Limited Ingredient Diet
Best for German ShepherdsRoyal Canin Breed Health Nutrition German Shepherd
Best for Golden RetrieversRoyal Canin Breed Health Nutrition Golden Retriever
Best for GoldendoodlesStella & Chewy’s Classic Kibble
Best for Great DanesNutro Ultra Large Breed Adult Dry Dog Food
Best for Labrador RetrieversRoyal Canin Breed Health Nutrition Labrador Retriever
Best for MalteseNatural Balance L.I.D. Limited Ingredient
Best for PitbullsAnnamaet Ultra 32% Dry Dog Food
Best for PomeranansRoyal Canin Breed Health Nutrition Pomeranian Adult Dry Dog Food
Best for PoodlesRoyal Canin Breed Health Nutrition Poodle Adult Dry Dog Food
Best for PugsRoyal Canin Breed Health Nutrition Pug Adult Dry Dog Food
Best for RottweilersRoyal Canin Breed Health Nutrition Rottweiler Adult Formula
Best for Shih TzusRoyal Canin Breed Health Nutrition Shih Tzu Adult Dry Dog Food
Best for Siberian HuskiesBlue Buffalo Wilderness High Protein, Natural Adult Dry Food
Best for YorkiesHill’s Science Diet Adult Small Paws Dry Dog Food
About the Author

Hannah is a writer at A-Z animals where her primary focus is on reptiles, marine life, mammals, and geography. Hannah has been writing and researching animals for four years alongside running her family farm. A resident of the UK, Hannah loves riding horses and creating short stories.

Choosing The Best Dog Foods: Everything You Need To Know FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions) 

Is wet food better for dogs?

Many pet owners prefer to feed their dogs wet food since it is typically made using higher-quality protein and does not contain as many carbs or fat as dry dog food does. By nature, wet food is also more moist than dry food, which can help make sure a dog stays hydrated. Additionally, in most cases, the ingredients found in wet food are in a more natural form than what you’d find in dry food.

Can I mix a combination of dry and wet dog food together?

Yes, wet and dry dog food can be mixed together. Many owners mix a little wet food in with dry food to make the food more appealing and tastier for their dogs. However, keep in mind that when mixing foods, it is important to make sure both the wet and dry foods are designed to match the dietary needs of your dog. For example, this means that you should avoid mixing dry puppy food with wet adult food.

Thank you for reading! Have some feedback for us? Contact the AZ Animals editorial team.