Nutritional Superiority Elevating Canine Wellness with Raw Dog Food
Raw dog food the big questions
Raw dog food diets have been around as long as dogs and their ancestors have been around. Until the creation of dry dog food and canned dog food, dogs lived off raw meat, scraps and anything they could scavenge.
You may have heard of the old English expression as fit as a butchers dog, which implies that a dog living off meat, bones and offal is likely to be in fine fettle.
However, after the creation and growth of mass-market dog food, domestic dogs diets changed and the feeding of raw dog food became less common. That is until recent years
Raw food for dogs has increased in popularity in recent years; some of it homemade, some produced by cottage industries, but increasingly provided by medium to large companies for a national market.
What are the best raw dog foods?
Some work on the prey model, which is an 80% meat, 10% ground bone, 10% organ meat (offal) blend. Others use the recipes akin to the Biologically Appropriate Raw Food (BARF) model, which includes a small percentage of vegetables.
Both kinds profess an authenticity based on dogs evolutionary diets.
It being something new (but also very old) it has generated a lot of doubt, cynicism and questions alongside its popularity.
We put some of the questions we most frequently get asked by readers to Amy Zalneraitis, the CBO at 5-star-rated We Feed Raw.
Is raw dog food safe for dogs?
AZ: Raw dog food is not only safe for dogs, its what is most biologically appropriate for them. Dogs have thrived on a raw, meat-based diet since the dawn of their existence. While weve domesticated dogs and bred them for their appearance, behavior, and temperament, in form and function, their digestive system is identical to their ancestors. With highly acidic stomachs, sharp, pointy teeth, and short, simple digestive tracts, a dogs biology tells us what they should be eating.
So any raw food will do?
Not all raw pet foods are created equal. We use only high-quality, USDA, human-grade meats. We produce our recipes in a USDA-certified facility and all ingredients must comply with rigid incoming quality assurance specifications. Most importantly, to ensure safe raw feeding in the home, we use HPP (high-pressure processing) a non-thermal pasteurization technology that uses extreme cold water pressure (up to 87,000 psi) to ensure our food is free of pathogens such as Listeria, E. coli, and Salmonella.
While not all raw companies in the U.S. do this, we incur the extra cost because it ensures a safe product. Because the process uses pressure rather than heat, there is no change in product taste, texture, or nutritional value.
Is raw dog food safe for humans?
It depends if you mean to eat or handle. While our food is sourced from USDA, human-grade meats, our recipes are not intended for human consumption. Our formulas contain the correct ratio of muscle meat, organ meat, finely ground bone and a high-quality vitamin and mineral mix for full and proper canine nutrition, not full and proper human nutrition.
As for handling, dogs can cope with bacteria in ways that humans cant, but HPP offers extra peace of mind while feeding raw in the home. HPP is used by many reputable raw pet food companies because its a natural way to reduce harmful bacteria while preserving nutrients.
When youre purchasing raw pet food from a reputable company, its easy to feed raw food safely you use the same basic hygiene practices you use when preparing your own raw meats to cook, like washing hands, surfaces, and bowls.
Its more expensive than kibble why should I spend extra?
Because the quality of the food our dogs eat has a direct impact on how well they live. Eighty percent of immune capability is in the gut and low-carb raw diets help to promote healthy gut microflora. Raw food will always be more expensive because quality costs more. Hands down, raw costs more to source and make and its not packed with cheap fillers. While youll pay more upfront with raw, youll save money down the line because youll have a healthier, happier dog and far fewer vet visits.
Why wouldnt I just make raw food at home?
If youre a DIY raw feeder, amazing! Great job! But weve found that many pet parents dont have the time, energy, interest, or resources to make properly balanced raw food at home. Thats where we come in. We plan, portion, package, and deliver. All you have to do is thaw and feed. No concern that your dog is missing important nutrients, no trips to the pet food store, no guesswork.
Do dogs need vegetables?
Our recipes are based on the Prey Model Raw diet: approximately 80% muscle meat (with connective tissue and fat), 10% organ meat (all of which is secreting organ), 10% finely ground raw meaty bones plus a small amount of a high-quality vitamin and mineral mix.
Some of our customers will choose to add veggies to the meals, and thats great, as long as they dont overdo it. If your dog does well with a bit of extra fiber, our Ph.D. nutritionist suggests around a 5-8% veggie inclusion. With dogs, plant matter usually passes out as part of the stool, undigested because their bodies have to work much harder to break it down.
We usually recommend pureeing veggies: dogs do not have natural cellulase, an enzyme that helps to break down fiber, so pureeing them will help aid in digestion.
Do I need to add supplements?
Not with our food. Our food is complete and balanced as is. No need to add supplements. That said, its totally fine to add a small amount of your preferred probiotic, prebiotic, fish oil or omega-3 oil, etc. We just advise that pet parents dont add a multivitamin, as we already include a high-quality vitamin and mineral mix to our recipes.
When it comes to adding other whole foods, like canned pumpkin, phytoplankton, sardines, green-lipped mussels, etc, these can be wonderful, healthy additions and we totally support those as toppers to our meals.
Are there any proven benefits to a raw diet?
A dogs digestive system is identical to its ancestors. They didnt lose the ability to digest their evolutionary diet just because kibble was invented mere seconds ago in geologic time. Therefore, isnt it prudent to imitate what nature provided as a guideline?
As for specific studies, were excited about the work being done at the University of Helsinki on the benefits of a raw dog food diet. Led by veterinary scientist Dr. Anna-Hielm Bjrkman (DVM and PhD), The Dog Risk Study is a university-led, cruelty-free study using 16,000 dogs of all breeds and ages.
The program has already proven that puppies fed raw (vs kibble) have fewer environmental allergies as adults and a reduced risk of developing IBD later in life. Some of the other specific studies its exploring include hip dysplasia, GI issues, chronic ear infections, cancer and tumors.
How do I transition my dog to raw food?
Our intro plan helps to gradually introduce dogs to raw food over a 10-day period. The detailed directions instruct pet parents on how to mix their pups current food with We Feed Raw and increase the percentage of We Feed Raw over the course of 9 days until theyre feeding 100% raw.
What are the best raw dog foods?
Will there be side effects?
While some dogs transition to raw with no issues, other dogs with sensitive stomachs may require a bit more TLC and time. Its all normal. The long-term effects of a healthy, species-appropriate diet make it all worth it: smaller, less smelly stools, shiny skin and coat, cleaner teeth, improved digestion, stronger immune system, better weight control the list goes on.
Can I mix raw food with cooked food?
Yes, absolutely. We encourage pet parents to feed what works for their budget and lifestyle. Adding even 25% raw food to your dogs diet can have life-changing health benefits. Raw feeding isnt an all-or-nothing approach. Using it as a base, mixer, or topper with cooked food or kibble can still have amazing overall health benefits.
Why are some vets anti-raw food?
Were seeing a real shift with conventional vets becoming more raw-friendly. In fact, we work with many conventional vets who not only recommend raw to their clients but feed it to their own pets.
So while the tide is changing, here are some reasons that conventional vets may not be pro-raw: 1) Theyre not taught about raw diets in vet school; 2) Theyve seen homemade raw diets go wrong (imbalanced, missing important nutrients, incorrect ratios); 3) They think its a danger to the humans feeding it. However, serious and reputable raw brands in the U.S., like our company, use HPP to neutralize pathogens for safe feeding in the home.
Is raw dog food human-grade?
Raw dog food is meant to be fed raw and usually contains bone, and therefore cannot technically be labeled human-grade as a whole. So while our food is sourced from high-quality human-grade meats and produced in a USDA-certified facility, we do not make the human-grade claim on our labels.
Are bones and offal actually good for dogs?
Not only are they good for dogs, theyre essential to a complete and balanced raw diet. Organ meats, particularly liver, are packed with vitamins and minerals. Bones are an excellent source of calcium and phosphorus.
Best Dry Dog Food
Redbarn Grain-Free Sky is one of 3 dry recipes studied in our review of the Redbarn dry product line.
Redbarn Sky derives the bulk of its meat protein from fresh turkey and chicken. Dry matter label analysis reveals a wet recipe containing 31% protein, 17% fat and 44% estimated carbs with a fat-to-protein ratio of about 10%.
A wholesome grain-free product. Recommended with confidence.
Read our review of the full Redbarn Grain Free Dog Food (Dry) range here
Main Ingredients Turkey, chicken, chicken meal, duck meal, turkey meal Texture Dry Type Grain-free Protein Percentage 31% Sample buyer review...
Read more buyer reviews at Redbarn.com"As a pet owner I always want the best for them. Made the best decision in choosing this brand. The combination of ingredients, flavors as well as nutrients. The best . My dog loves it. Highly Recommended!!"
Grass Fed Beef is one of 21 dry recipes revied in our review of the Open Farm product line.
This Open Farm recipe obtains the bulk of its animal protein from beef. Dry matter label analysis reveals the recipe contains 36% protein, 18% fat and 38% estimated carbs producing a fat-to-protein ratio of about 48%.
A perfect source of premium nutrition. Recommended.
Read our review of the full Open Farm Grain-Free Dog Food (Dry) range here
Main Ingredients Humanely raised beef, ocean whitefish meal, field peas, sweet potato, beef livers Texture Dry Type Grain-free Protein Percentage 36% Sample buyer review...
Read more buyer reviews at OpenFarmPet.com"Lola has had some type of food allergies since she was a puppy and it took so much trial and error until we found Open Farm. She loves the food and she is so healthy with a happy tummy. I love how the food is sourced and the quality ingredients."
Chicken Pupatouille is one of4 dehydrated recipescovered inour reviewof the A Pup Above product line.
A Pup Above acquires the lions share of its meat protein fromchicken. Dry matter label analysis reveals the recipe contains 33% protein, 21% fat and 38% estimated carbs resulting a fat-to-protein ratio of about 63%.
See all 4 available recipes
Read our review of the full A Pup Above Whole Food Cubies Dog Food (Dehydrated) range here
Main Ingredients Chicken, chicken heart, sweet potato, barley, oat Type Grain-inclusive (barley, oat) Protein Percentage 33% Sample buyer review...
Read more buyer reviews at APupAbove.com"The Cubies make it so easy to feed on the go. Weve used them for training or when were out and about during mealtime, and love that were still getting everything we love from the fresh recipe. Kirby gets so excited when the Cubies box comes out! He knows hes in for something special."
Chicken and Brown Rice Unkibble is one of 3 dry recipes included in our review of the Spot and Tango product line.
Spot and Tango Unkibble derives the majority of its animal protein from fresh chicken. Dry matter label analysis reveals the recipe contains 26% protein, 17% fat and 49% estimated carbs [producing a fat-to-protein ratio of about 64%.
The quality of fresh ingredients just dry. Highly recommended.
Read our review of the full Spot and Tango UnKibble Dog Food (Dry) range here
Main Ingredients Chicken, brown rice, sweet potatoes, carrots, apples Texture Dry Type Grain-inclusive Protein Percentage 26% Sample buyer review...
Read more buyer reviews at SpotandTango.com"I always worry that the regular dry kibble isnt enough nutrition for Hoagie. This is a good alternative that doesnt require me feeding him a full meal of raw food (which gives me sticker-shock and I worry if I dont feed it to him fast enough for it to still be fresh.)"
Salmon and Sweet Potato recipe is one of 4 dry recipes included in our review of the Jinx product line.
This Jinx recipe derives the bulk of its animal protein from fresh salmon. Dry matter label analysis reveals the recipe contains 30% protein, 16% fat and 46% estimated carbs creating a fat-to-protein ratio of about 52%.
A fully-balanced, grain-inclusive dog food. Highly recommended.
Read our review of the full Jinx Dog Food (Dry) range here
Main Ingredients Salmon, pearled barley, ground peas, turkey meal, brown rice Texture Dry Type Grain-inclusive Protein Percentage 30% Sample buyer review...
Read more buyer reviews at ThinkJinx.com"Finally found a new food we are happy with! My dog loves the salmon flavor and we cant wait to try the chicken sampler! We especially love how much thought goes into the food and its ingredients."
Wellness Complete Health Adult Deboned Chicken and Oatmeal is one of 13 dry recipes included in our review of the Wellness Complete Health product line.
This Wellness Complete Health formula derives the bulk of its meat protein from chicken and chicken meal. Our dry matter label analysis reveals the product contains 27% protein, 13% fat and 52% estimated carbs creating a fat-to-protein ratio of about 50%.
One of the best grain-inclusive kibbles on the market. Highly recommended.
Read our review of the full Wellness Complete Health Dog Food (Dry) range here
Main Ingredients Deboned chicken, chicken meal, oatmeal, ground barley, peas Texture Dry Type Grain-inclusive Protein Percentage 27% Sample buyer review...
Read more buyer reviews at Chewy.com"I have three dogs, all different breeds and sizes. They all love this food; it has caused absolutely no stomach issues... After discussing this with our awesome Veterinarian she recommended Wellness and our Goldendoodle hasn't had any stomach issues in 5 years. The stomach issues brought us to Wellness, but the quality ingredients kept us loyal."
Instinct Original with Real Beef is one of 5 dry recipes included in our review of the Instinct Original product line.
This Instinct example derives the majority of its animal protein from beef and chicken meal. Our dry matter label analysis reveals the recipe contains 40% protein, 23% fat and 29% estimated carbs which creates a fat-to-protein ratio of about 57%.
With multiple flavor options, Instinct makes an ideal choice for feeding picky eaters. Highly recommended.
Read our review of the full Instinct Dog Food range here
Main Ingredients Beef, chicken meal, white fish meal, peas, chicken fat Texture Dry Type Grain-free Protein Percentage 40% Sample buyer review...
Read more buyer reviews at Chewy.com"Our rescued English Bulldog has been eating this product since she arrived. She has no allergy issues and seems to be doing well with this formula. She is eager to eat. She's digesting the product well and her flatulence is now non-existent. Happy dog, happy home!"
Natures Logic Canine Chicken Meal Feast is one of 11 dry recipes included in our review of the Natures Logic product line.
This Natures Logic example recipe derives the bulk of its meat protein from chicken meal. Our dry matter label analysis reveals the product contains 40% protein, 17% fat and 36% estimated carbs yielding a fat-to-protein ratio of about 42%.
Natures Logic is one of the few dry brands meeting AAFCO nutrient standards by using live feeding trials. Highly recommended.
Read our review of the full Natures Logic Dog Food (Dry) range here
Main Ingredients Chicken meal, millet, chicken fat, pumpkin seed, yeast culture Texture Dry Type Grain-inclusive Protein Percentage 40% Sample buyer review...
Read more buyer reviews at Chewy.com"I have been feeding this for 3 months now and their skin and coats have cleared up nicely. No more greasy smelly fur babies. Plus no more pills on a daily basis. Yes it's a little more expensive but I'm saving in vet bills. Trying to find a grain and potato free kibble is nearly impossible but I hit a home run here."
High Prairie is one of 9 dry recipes included in our review of the Taste of the Wild product line.
High Prairie derives the majority of its meat protein from fresh buffalo, as well as both chicken and lamb meals. Our dry matter label analysis reveals the recipe contains 36% protein, 20% fat and 36% estimated carbs producing a fat-to-protein ratio of about 56%.
Taste of the Wild provides a top-rated, nutrient-balanced formula at an affordable price. Highly recommended.
Read our review of the full Taste of the Wild Dog Food range here
Main Ingredients Buffalo, lamb meal, chicken meal, sweet potatoes, peas Texture Dry Type Grain-free Protein Percentage 36% Sample buyer review...
Read more buyer reviews at Chewy.com"We have had a tough run with our sensitive GSD with diarrhea, itchy butt and ears. After trying multiple types of foods leading to severe enteritis, we gave TOW high prairie a try. Within days, solid poop and no itching! We are so relieved!"
Blue Buffalo Life Protection Chicken and Rice is one of 21 kibble recipes included in our review of the Blue Buffalo Life Protection product line.
This Life Protection example derives the majority of its animal protein from chicken and chicken meal. Our dry matter label analysis reveals the recipe contains 27% protein, 16% fat and 50% estimated carbs creating a fat-to-protein ratio of about 58%.
A top-rated, grain-inclusive kibble. One of The Advisors most popular recommendations.
Read our review of the full Blue Buffalo Dog Food range here
Main Ingredients Deboned chicken, chicken meal, brown rice, barley, oatmeal Texture Dry Type Grain-inclusive Protein Percentage 27% Sample buyer review...
Read more buyer reviews at Chewy.com"My dog is a very picky eater with a sensitive stomach (he is a chocolate heeler) and this food has done wonders for him. He's finally eating as much as he should without stomach issues and it's made him almost a brand new dog. I tried a few different foods with him but this seemed to give me the best results..."
Pro Plan Large Breed Adult is one of 19 kibbles featured in our review of the Purina Pro Plan Focus product line.
Focus Large Breed Adult derives the majority of its animal protein from fresh chicken. Our dry matter label analysis reveals the recipe contains 30% protein, 14% fat and 49% estimated carbs creating a fat-to-protein ratio of about 46%.
Pro Plan is one of the dog food brands most frequently mentioned by breeders and veterinary professionals.
Each recipe has been expertly formulated by a team of board certified veterinary nutritionists.
In addition, the entire Pro Plan product line is designed and manufactured according to rigorous guidelines recommended by the World Small Animal Veterinary Association.
Purina Pro Plan is one of the very best brands youll find on this or any list. And its easy on the budget, too. Highly recommended.
Read our review of the full Purina Pro Plan Dog Food range here
Main Ingredients Chicken, brewers rice, whole grain wheat, corn gluten meal, whole grain corn Texture Dry Type Grain-inclusive Protein Percentage 30% Sample buyer review...
Read more buyer reviews at Chewy.com"My black lab loves this food. Her coat is beautiful, her energy is high, and she digests it easily. My vet recommended this food and I couldn't be happier. I saw a noticeable difference within days of feeding this to her. My dog eats the dry food with a little bit of the PPP wet focus for large breeds. Do not hesitate to feed this to your pups.. it's a game-changer!"
Canidae Pure Real Salmon and Sweet Potato is one of 10 dry kibble recipes included in our review of the Canidae Grain-Free Pure product line.
This Canidae Grain-Free product derives the majority of its meat protein from fresh salmon, as well as salmon and menhaden fish meals. Our dry matter label analysis reveals the recipe contains 36% protein, 20% fat and 36% estimated carbs which produces a fat-to-protein ratio of about 56%.
An exceptional, dry recipe, free of corn, wheat or soy. A top recommendation.
Read our review of the full Canidae Grain Free Pure Dog Food (Dry) range here
Main Ingredients Salmon, salmon meal, menhaden fish meal, sweet potatoes, peas Texture Dry Type Grain-free Protein Percentage 36% Sample buyer review...
Read more buyer reviews at Chewy.com"After switching dog foods several times due to my girl having a very sensitive stomach we tried this on a recommendation. No more issues and she LOVES the food. What more could you ask for?"
Orijen Original is one of 9 dry recipes included in our review of the Orijen product line.
This Orijen product derives the majority of its animal protein from chicken, turkey and fish. Our dry matter label analysis reveals the recipe contains 43% protein, 21% fat and 28% estimated carbs which produces a fat-to-protein ratio of about 47%.
A meat-rich, dry dog food made by a quality company known for its superior, biologically appropriate designs. Not cheap but worthy of serious consideration.
Read our review of the full Orijen Dog Food (Dry) range here
Main Ingredients Deboned chicken, deboned turkey, Atlantic ounder, cage-free eggs, whole Atlantic mackerel Texture Dry Type Grain-free Protein Percentage 43% Sample buyer review...
Read more buyer reviews at Chewy.com"Since I rescued Pewee( a jack a bee)I been trying to find a dog food he would eat. He refused to eat every dry or wet food I tried to feed. So I had a friend who had a similar problem with her dog, so she gave me some Orijen to try since her picky eat loved it from day one. So I tried it and he loved it as soon as I put it in his bowl he ate every bite. So I ordered a bag and it was here in two days, it was fresh and had a great smell to it. As soon as I put it in his bowl he eats every piece of it and wants more! Since he's been on it his coat looks much better, he has more energy and go's to bathroom on a regular basis. I can't say enough about this food. Thank you orijen!!"
Diamond Naturals Extreme Athlete is one of 13 kibble recipes included in our review of the Diamond Naturals product line.
This Diamond Naturals formula derives most of its animal protein from chicken meal and fresh chicken. Our dry matter label analysis reveals the recipe contains 36% protein, 28% fat and 29% estimated carbs which yields a fat-to-protein ratio of about 78%.
Diamond Naturals was recently selected as one of our most affordable dog foods. Highly recommended.
Read our review of the full Diamond Naturals Dog Food (Dry) range here
Main Ingredients Chicken meal, chicken, ground white rice, chicken fat, cracked pearled barley Texture Dry Type Grain-inclusive Protein Percentage 36% Sample buyer review...
Read more buyer reviews at Chewy.com"I own competitive English setter females. I'm always looking for the best value per pound in what I feed my dogs. Over the past 25 years I've tried many different foods and found that 30/20 or higher works best based upon the condition, looks, stamina, palatability and stool size, consistency and frequency. I've fed this food before and found it is very close to, if not better than the Sport/Performance food it competes with!"
Nulo Freestyle Adult Turkey and Sweet Potato is one of 9 dry kibble recipes included in our review of the Nulo Freestyle product line.
This Nulo Freestyle recipe derives the bulk of its meat protein from turkey, as well as turkey and salmon meals. Our dry matter label analysis reveals the recipe contains 37% protein, 20% fat and 35% estimated carbs which produces a fat-to-protein ratio of about 55%.
A superior, grain-free kibble, offering balanced nutrition for a wide range of dogs. Recommended with confidence.
Read our review of the full Nulo FreeStyle Dog Food (Dry) range here
Main Ingredients Deboned turkey, turkey meal, salmon meal, chickpeas, chicken fat Texture Dry Type Grain-free Protein Percentage 37% Sample buyer review...
Read more buyer reviews at Chewy.com"My dogs have been on this food for about a year now. After switching around a bit due to food allergies and wanting what was best for the dogs I found Nulo. Their coats have never been shinier and they love love love this food! No more dryness in their coats in the colder winter months just shine healthy coats and happy dogs. There's a variety of food flavors to choose from and the dogs love them all."
Nutro Ultra Adult is one of 9 dry recipes included in our review of the Nutro Ultra product line.
This Nutro formula derives most of its meat protein from chicken and chicken meal. Our dry matter label analysis reveals the recipe contains 24% protein, 15% fat and 53% estimated carbs which creates a fat-to-protein ratio of about 63%.
Available in a wide range of flavor and recipe options. One of our top value picks.
Read our review of the full Nutro Ultra Dog Food (Dry) range here
Main Ingredients Chicken, chicken meal, whole grain sorghum, whole grain barley, whole grain oats Texture Dry Type Grain-inclusive Protein Percentage 24% Sample buyer review...
Read more buyer reviews at Chewy.com"have 5 dogs...ranging in different sizes and breeds. This is the ONE food I can get them all to eat without having to buy a bunch of different brands or formulas. Thank you Nutro!"
Go! Carnivore Chicken, Turkey and Duck Adult is one of 5 kibble recipes included in our review of the Go! Carnivore product line.
This Go! Carnivore formula derives the majority of its animal protein from chicken, turkey and salmon meals, as well both chicken and turkey. Our dry matter label analysis reveals the recipe contains 38% protein, 18% fat and 36% estimated carbs resulting in a fat-to-protein ratio of about 47%.
Free of GMO (genetically modified) ingredients and loaded with meat. A rare find. Highly recommended.
Read our review of the full Go! Carnivore Dog Food (Dry) range here
Main Ingredients Chicken meal, turkey meal, salmon meal, de-boned chicken, de-boned turkey Texture Dry Type Grain-free Protein Percentage 38% Sample buyer review...
Read more buyer reviews at Chewy.com"I've gone through about 5 or 6 different brands of kibble to find a food that my dog likes and also does well on. I'm absolutely ecstatic to say that Go! Fit + Trim is that food. Great stool, gorgeous coat, clean teeth, boundless energy, you name it. I'm incredibly impressed and so is my best girl. We found our forever food!"
Eagle Pack Power Adult is one of 7 dry kibble recipes included in our review of the Eagle Pack product line.
This Eagle Pack recipe derives the bulk of its meat protein from chicken and pork meals. Our dry matter label analysis reveals the recipe contains 33% protein, 21% fat and 38% estimated carbs yielding a fat-to-protein ratio of about 63%.
A superior kibble at an affordable price. Made by the same trusted company that also produces Wellness. Exceptional value. Highly recommended.
Read our review of the full Eagle Pack Dog Food (Dry) range here
Main Ingredients Chicken meal, pork meal, ground brown rice, peas, chicken fat Texture Dry Type Grain-inclusive Protein Percentage 33% Sample buyer review...
Read more buyer reviews at Chewy.com"She seems to be shedding much less on Eagle Pack, and her coat condition is much better than it was. She has always been prone to itches and allergies, and she is no longer scratching herself all the time and gnawing the hair off of her paws. I'm happy that this is a food that agrees with her. I wonder why I hadn't heard of Eagle Pack earlier, as I feel that it is a great food at a much more affordable price than other popular "high-quality" brands."
Wellness Core Original is one of 12 dry recipes included in our review of the Wellness Core product line.
This Wellness Core formula derives the bulk of its animal protein from fresh turkey, as well as turkey and chicken meals. Our dry matter label analysis reveals the recipe contains 38% protein, 18% fat and 36% estimated carbs producing a fat-to-protein ratio of about 47%.
Core has appeared on our Best Grain-Free Dog Foods list for more than 10 years. Enthusiastically recommended.
Read our review of the full Wellness Core Dog Food (Dry) range here
Main Ingredients Deboned turkey, turkey meal, chicken meal, peas, potatoes Texture Dry Type Grain-free Protein Percentage 38% Sample buyer review...
Read more buyer reviews at Chewy.com"After recently reading an article on health risks for pea proteins in canine foods we decided (after research) that Core was a very good option. Our Bella LOVES IT and it was an easy transition from her old food with no disruption to her digestive system at all which is so common. We are very happy with this brand. It costs a little more than others but our Bella is worth it !!!"
Holistic Select Adult and Puppy Health is one of 11 kibble recipes included in our review of the Holistic Select Grain-Free product line.
This Holistic Select formula derives most of its meat protein from fresh salmon, as well as anchovy and sardine meal. Our dry matter label analysis reveals the recipe contains 32% protein, 16% fat and 44% estimated carbs producing a fat-to-protein ratio of about 48%.
An exceptional grain-free dog food offering numerous recipe and flavor options. Highly recommended.
Read our review of the full Holistic Select Grain Free Dog Food (Dry) range here
Main Ingredients Salmon, anchovy and sardine meal, potatoes, peas, menhaden fish meal Texture Dry Type Grain-free Protein Percentage 32% Sample buyer review...
Read more buyer reviews at Chewy.com"This food was a suggestion by my vet for our small pup who is having food allergy problems. He had lost a strip of hair straight down his back and was also having bowel problems. This new food has already gotten his bowels in great working order and his hair is growing back on his back."
Dr. Tims Pursuit Active Dog Formula is one of 8 dry kibble recipes included in our review of the Dr. Tims product line.
This Dr. Tims product derives the bulk of its animal protein from chicken meal. Our dry matter label analysis reveals the recipe contains 33% protein, 22% fat and 36% estimated carbs creating a fat-to-protein ratio of about 67%.
One of the best-kept secrets in the dry kibble market. And its one of our top picks, especially for sporting dogs. Highly recommended.
Read our review of the full Dr. Tims Dog Food (Dry) range here
Main Ingredients Chicken meal, brown rice, chicken fat, whole oat groats, dried beet pulp Texture Dry Type Grain-inclusive Protein Percentage 33% Sample buyer review...
Read more buyer reviews at Chewy.com"From the moment the box arrived, it was a hit with my Australian Kelpie/Heeler blend. He has done extremely well on this food and it has eliminated his gas/hard stool issues entirely. Though the price is higher than most, the quality is well worth it in order to promote a healthy lifestyle for my boy."
Iams Lamb and Rice Adult formula is one of 12 dry recipes included in our review of the Iams Proactive Health product line.
Iams Lamb and Rice derives a large portion of its animal protein from fresh lamb. Our dry matter label analysis reveals the recipe contains 28% protein, 16% fat and 49% estimated carbs which creates a fat-to-protein ratio of about 56%.
An affordable, classic design offering multiple recipe options. A top selection popular with veterinarians and professional breeders. Highly recommended.
Read our review of the full Iams Proactive Health Dog Food (Dry) range here
Main Ingredients Lamb, chicken by-product meal, brewers rice, ground whole grain barley, ground whole grain corn Texture Dry Type Grain-inclusive Protein Percentage 28% Sample buyer review...
Read more buyer reviews at Chewy.com"My bulldog has terrible allergies and colitis, and even with taking allergy medication, so many foods worsened her problems. Even grain free limited ingredient dog foods did not help. This red bag lamb and rice iams formula is one of the very few foods she can eat and once I changed her to this food, along with her continued apoquel, her skin allergies are getting better and her hair is growing back, with no colitis flare ups."
Victor Hi-Pro Plus is one of 5 kibble recipes included in our review of the Victor Classic product line.
Victor Hi-Pro Plus derives the bulk of its meat protein from beef meal. Our dry matter label analysis reveals the recipe contains 33% protein, 22% fat and 37% estimated carbs which creates a fat-to-protein ratio of about 67%.
An affordable, all life stages kibble recently added to our budget-friendly dog foods list. Highly recommended.
Read our review of the full Victor Classic Dog Food (Dry) range here
Main Ingredients Beef meal, grain sorghum, chicken fat, pork meal, chicken meal Texture Dry Type Grain-inclusive Protein Percentage 33% Sample buyer review...
Read more buyer reviews at Chewy.com"I have 5 active dogs of all different ages. It's been a struggle to find a quality, decently priced food that kept a good weight on all of them and didn't mess with their allergies. They've been on this food since April and it's been amazing! No bad reactions when switching to Victor, no allergies, and they are all a good weight. Highly recommend."
Annamaet Ultra is one of 8 kibble recipes included in our review of the Annamaet product line.
This Annamaet kibble derives most of its meat protein from chicken meal. Our dry matter label analysis reveals the recipe contains 36% protein, 22% fat and 34% estimated carbs which produces a fat-to-protein ratio of about 63%.
Especially popular with sporting dog professionals. Enthusiastically recommended.
Read our review of the full Annamaet Dog Food (Dry) range here
Main Ingredients Chicken meal, brown rice, chicken fat, whole dry eggs, herring meal Texture Dry Type Grain-inclusive Protein Percentage 36% Sample buyer review...
Read more buyer reviews at Chewy.com"I only started feeding this food a few months ago after extensive research and I couldn't be happier with the results. Beautiful long thick coats, firm small bowel movements, and great accessible energy. I run a boarding business and all my clients who have tried Annamaet have all been very happy with it. As kibble goes, this is one of the very best options on the market."
Real Beef and Brown Rice is one of 13 recipes included in our review of the Merrick Classic dry product line.
Merrick Classic Healthy Grains derives the bulk of its animal protein from fresh deboned beef and pork meal. Dry matter label analysis reveals the recipe contains 29% protein, 17% fat and 46% estimated carbs resulting in a fat-to-protein ratio of about 58%.
This fully balanced formula contains zinc amino acid complex and 4 other chelated minerals, superior nutritional supplements typically found in higher quality dog foods. Reasonably priced. Highly recommended.
Read our review of the full Merrick Classic Healthy Grains Dog Food (Dry) range here
Main Ingredients Deboned beef, pork meal, brown rice, barley, oatmeal Texture Dry Type Grain-inclusive Protein Percentage 29% Sample buyer review...
Read more buyer reviews at Chewy.com"After adopting animals that had been dropped off at my property I thought it was easy to buy cheap dogfood to keep them all nourished. Bad deal! I was contributing to poor health and obesity. I switched over to Merrick and within weeks noticed a change in weight and energy in all my pets."
