The Best Taste of the Wild Grain-Free Dog Foods: Ranked and Reviewed

Written by Katie Melynn Wood
Updated: January 13, 2023
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Taste of the Wild is some of the most highly rated dog food available. The ingredients are tailor-made to meet your dog’s nutritional needs and feature ingredients that owners can recognize. Venison, bison, salmon — you can find any of these ingredients in the wild to feed hungry pups. Grain-free foods make sure that the nutrition your pet gets is from whole foods that fit in with their natural diet and not empty fillers just meant to take up space in the bag…and in their tummies.

There are plenty of options for flavor and nutritional needs. While it often comes down to pet preference, there are a few options from Taste of the Wild that rise to the top. Our list includes top choices for every stage of your dog’s life that will interest their taste buds, as well as options for wet dog food and dry kibble-style food.

Taste of the Wild dog food is not the cheapest option on the market but it can help improve your pet’s health and quality of life. In fact, many reviewers tried it because their dog was having problems with allergies, joint pain, dull coat, or other health concerns. Introducing a healthy grain-free diet using Taste of the Wild food solved many of the problems without costly vet visits or medications.

  1. 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
  2. Taste of the Wild Pacific Stream Puppy
    • Protein comes from sustainably-sourced salmon
    • No eggs or chicken
    • Added antioxidants and probiotics
    • Helps growing puppies develop lean muscle mass 
    Check Chewy Check Amazon
  3. Taste of the Wild Southwest Canyon Grain-Free Dry Dog Food
    • Protein and meaty flavor come from wild boar, beef, and lamb
    • Contains peas and garbanzo beans for extra fiber
    • High-protein food
    • Added prebiotics, probiotics, and antioxidants
    Check Chewy Check Amazon
  4. Taste of the Wild Wetlands Grain-Free Dry Dog Food
    • Contains roasted quail, roasted duck, and smoked turkey
    • Easily digestible
    • Prebiotics, probiotics, and antioxidants from chicory root, sweet potatoes, tomatoes
    • Comes in dry kibble or wet food
    Check Chewy Check Amazon

A-Z-Animals’ Top Picks for Taste of the Wild Grain-Free Dog Foods

#1 Best Overall: Taste of the Wild High Prairie Grain-Free Dry Dog Food

In our review, the best Taste of the Wild Grain-free dog food is Taste of the Wild High Prairie Grain-Free Dry Dog food. The protein in this food comes from bison and venison, while probiotics and prebiotics make it easy to digest. These also help with nutrient absorption to keep your dog healthy and fit. It comes in an adult formula, puppy formula, and ancient grains formula. The last option has added sorghum, millet, quinoa, and chia seeds to support gut health.

What really sets this option apart from other Taste of the Wild foods is the delicious dog-approved flavor. Even picky dogs can agree on the Taste of the Wild High Prairie food. “My golden retriever likes fish-based dog food, but won’t touch chicken or beef. My Bernese mountain dog is always hungry but will eat anything BUT fish-based dog food. This food has finally hit the sweet spot,” said one reviewer. “Both are eating, neither are having any symptoms of food-based allergies or intestinal distress.

This is one of Taste of the Wild’s most popular flavors. Many people start their puppies on it and transition to the adult variety as they get older. It also comes in a wet food that can be an added treat or topper. It is also great for senior dogs or those with trouble chewing hard kibble. Transitioning between any dog foods can be difficult. Some dogs experience digestion issues while others just get stubborn about switching. Keeping the basic flavor and nutrition profile the same throughout their lifetime can help avoid some of these problems.

A few reviewers said that their dogs experienced digestive issues after eating this food. Some said that their dogs wouldn’t eat it.

Pros and Cons of Taste of the Wild High Prairie Grain-Free Dry Dog Food

ProsCons
The protein in this dry dog food comes from bison and venison.A few reviewers reported that their dogs experienced digestive issues after eating this food.
Probiotics and prebiotics make it easy to digest and help with nutrient absorption.Some reviewers said their dogs wouldn’t eat it.
The Ancient Grains formula has added sorghum, millet, quinoa, and chia seeds to support gut health.
This line of Taste of the Wild dog foods is available in adult, puppy, ancient grains, and wet recipes.
The wet (canned) variety can be used as a complete meal, topper, or treat.
Overall Best
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

2. Best for Puppies: Taste of the Wild Pacific Stream Grain-Free Puppy Formula

Another popular option for puppies is Taste of the Wild Pacific Stream Grain-Free Puppy Formula. Protein in this food comes from sustainably-sourced salmon. It does not have eggs or chicken, two allergens that can cause problems with health or development in puppies. It does have added antioxidants and probiotics — an impressive 80 million active cultures per pound of food — to support the immune system and digestive health.

The salmon in the recipe provides a 27% protein profile. This helps growing puppies develop lean muscle mass and keep up with the energy needs that growing and developing demands. This food is also great for pregnant dogs and other adult dogs. Because it excludes eggs and chicken, it can be a great option to test out if you suspect your dog has a food sensitivity or allergy.

Some reviewers reported that their puppies wouldn’t eat this food.

Pros and Cons of Taste of the Wild Pacific Stream Grain-Free Puppy Formula

ProsCons
The protein in this puppy formula comes from sustainably-sourced salmon.Some puppies won’t eat this food.
It’s free from eggs and chickens, two common canine allergens.
It includes added antioxidants and probiotics to support the immune system and digestive health.
The salmon in this recipe provides a 27% protein profile to help growing puppies develop lean muscle mass and keep up with energy needs that growing and developing demand.
It’s also an excellent food for pregnant dogs and other adults.
Best for Puppies
Taste of the Wild Pacific Stream Puppy
  • Protein comes from sustainably-sourced salmon
  • No eggs or chicken
  • Added antioxidants and probiotics
  • Helps growing puppies develop lean muscle mass 
Check Chewy Check Amazon

3. Best for Adult Dogs: Taste of the Wild Southwest Canyon Grain-Free Adult Dry Dog Food

Many dogs go crazy over the flavor of Taste of the Wild Southwest Canyon Grain-Free Adult Dry Dog Food. The protein and meaty flavor come from wild boar, beef, and lamb. Eggs round out the proteins. This is one of the meatiest taste options, which is why it is so popular with carnivorous dogs. Peas and garbanzo beans make sure that your pet gets the fiber they need to keep their waste on track. With high-protein food, this is an added benefit that many pet owners who have to clean up after their dogs will appreciate.

This formula comes in an adult option but does not have one specialized for puppies or senior dogs. It still has all of the prebiotics, probiotics, and antioxidants to keep your adult dog’s digestive system and immune system healthy. It does come in a wet food variety, which might be a good addition to the dry kibble for an extra treat or to entice dogs that may have a low appetite.

A few reviewers said that their dogs experienced digestive issues after eating this food. Some reported that their dogs didn’t like it.

Pros and Cons of Taste of the Wild Southwest Canyon Grain-Free Adult Dry Dog Food

ProsCons
The protein and meaty flavor of this adult dog food comes from wild boar, beef, lamb, and eggs.Some reviewers said that their dogs had digestive issues after eating this food.
Peas and garbanzo beans provide dietary fiber to keep digestion on track.A few reviewers reported that their dogs didn’t like it.
It includes prebiotics, probiotics, and antioxidants for digestive and immune health.
This variety is also available in a wet (canned) recipe.
Best for Adult Dogs
Taste of the Wild Southwest Canyon Grain-Free Dry Dog Food
  • Protein and meaty flavor come from wild boar, beef, and lamb
  • Contains peas and garbanzo beans for extra fiber
  • High-protein food
  • Added prebiotics, probiotics, and antioxidants
Check Chewy Check Amazon

4. Best for Senior Dogs: Taste of the Wild Wetlands Grain-Free Dog Food

If your senior dog grew up eating Taste of the Wild dog food as a puppy or adult, they may enjoy Taste of the Wild Wetlands Grain-Free Dog Food in their golden years. Aging dogs often experience lower appetites, either due to dental problems that make it difficult for them to eat or digestive discomfort. You may want to introduce a new flavor to give them options. The Taste of the Wild Wetlands grain-free dog food comes in dry kibble or wet food to provide the most variety and feeding options for your older dog.

Roasted quail, roasted duck, and smoked turkey are all very flavorful while still being easy to digest. This can entice your senior dog to eat while making it easy for their body to get nutrients from their food. Prebiotics, probiotics, and antioxidants from chicory root, sweet potatoes, tomatoes, blueberries, and raspberries ensure their immune systems stay healthy as well.

A few reviewers reported that their dogs had diarrhea after eating this food.

Pros and Cons of Taste of the Wild Wetlands Grain-Free Dog Food

ProsCons
This Taste of the Wild grain-free variety is available in dry and wet recipes.Some reviewers said that their dogs experienced diarrhea after eating this food.
Roasted quail, roasted duck, and smoked turkey are flavorful and easy for senior dogs to digest.
Prebiotics, probiotics, and antioxidants from chicory root, sweet potatoes, tomatoes, blueberries, and raspberries support immune system health.
Best for Senior Dogs
Taste of the Wild Wetlands Grain-Free Dry Dog Food
  • Contains roasted quail, roasted duck, and smoked turkey
  • Easily digestible
  • Prebiotics, probiotics, and antioxidants from chicory root, sweet potatoes, tomatoes
  • Comes in dry kibble or wet food
Check Chewy Check Amazon

Choosing the Best Taste of the Wild Grain-Free Dog Food: What to Look For

When choosing the right Taste of the Wild Grain-Free dog food for your pup, it comes down to three factors that you need to consider. Here is what to look for in your dog food when it comes to taste, special nutrition, and availability.

Taste

Some dogs are pickier than others but all pet owners want their dogs to enjoy the flavor of their dog food, especially if it is the one that they eat every day. With many taste options to choose from, there is no shortage of flavors that are sure to entice your dog. Consider buying a small bag of a few flavors to try before settling on which one your dog likes the best. You can also mix them to create a one-of-a-kind blend.

Nutritional Profile

Taste of the Wild is known for using very high-quality ingredients that dogs love and that keep them healthy. Different food formulas are made for different nutritional needs, often catering to a specific age or condition. Look for nutrients that will support your dog’s needs, whether that is higher protein for a puppy or joint support for an older dog.

Availability

Taste of the Wild can be found at pet supply stores or online retailers. While not the cheapest dog food available, you likely won’t have a problem finding an option that will work for your dog. Consider subscribing to a delivery service that automates reorders and offers a discount. If your dog has a particular flavor that they prefer, this can be a great way to make sure you always have it ready.

The Different Types of Taste of the Wild Grain-Free Dog Food: Pros and Cons Compared

All Taste of the Wild dog food is made with high-quality, natural ingredients. The biggest factor in deciding between the options is to consider what age or needs your dog has. Here are some things to consider when looking.

  • Puppy dog food: Often has added protein and carbohydrates to keep up with a puppy’s growth. They may also include omega-3s and other nutrients that support healthy brain and eye development. The kibble size may be smaller to allow for a puppy’s smaller jaws and teeth.
  • Adult dog food: Has the most flavor options. They may also have options tailored to breed, dog size, or lifestyle. Higher protein options may be available for small dogs or working dogs. Weight control formulas may also be available.
  • Senior dog food: Includes added support for healthy joints and immune systems. Consider wet food for senior dogs with dental issues or those that have a lower appetite.

Products For This Review

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About the Author

Katie is a freelance writer and teaching artist specializing in home, lifestyle, and family topics. Her work has appeared in At Ease Magazine, PEOPLE, and The Spruce, among others. When she is not writing, Katie teaches creative writing with the Apex Arts Magnet Program in Anne Arundel County, Maryland. You can follow Katie @katiemelynnwriter.

The Best Taste of the Wild Grain-Free Dog Foods: Ranked and Reviewed FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions) 

Is Taste of the Wild Grain-Free bad for dogs?

Taste of the Wild includes natural protein sources that are just like those your dog would hunt and eat in the wild. The added prebiotics, probiotics, and antioxidants also support your dog’s overall health. That’s what makes this food the ideal choice for many dogs.

If your dog has specific allergies, make sure that the formula you try does not include any of those ingredients. This is a high-protein food. If your vet recommends that your dog is on a low-protein or modified diet, talk to them before trying Taste of the Wild to see if it is a good option for your situation.

Which Taste of the Wild is right for my dog?

The right food often comes down to taste and flavor for many dogs and their owners. Even if a food is great nutritionally, it won’t work if your dog won’t eat it. Try out a few flavor options to see which your dog prefers. If your dog has known allergies, make sure to exclude any foods that have those ingredients. For puppies and senior dogs, look for an option that supports their health and development. These are often easier to digest while still being flavorful and delicious for your pup.

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