Best Dry Dog Food
The pet food market has an overwhelming amount of dog food products that can make it confusing for you to choose the diet that’s most suitable for your unique dog.
From wet food, dry food, raw food, and homemade food, an owner has so many options. The choices don’t end there though, after selecting the type of food to feed your dog you’re still bombarded with several differing brands and ingredients to
choose from.
Despite the plethora of choices, approximately six out of ten (60%) dogs are feed dry food in the US, according to StreetBees.
Table of Contents
What is Dry Dog Food?
When you imagine a bowl of puppy kibble, you’re envisioning dry dog food. Dry dog food is cooked and shaped in either an extruder or oven baking. Extrusion is the same process in which many human foods are made, such as cereal and pasta, to ensure appealing consistency. In this method, the ingredients are mixed together and cooked at such a high temperature that it’s pushed through a cutter to produce the desired shape and size.
Oven baking, on the other hand, precuts the ingredient mixed dough into desired shapes and then bakes in the oven. Between the high cooking temperature and a drying process, the moisture, that would have begun in the mix, is removed, along with any harmful pathogens or bacteria.
Dry dog food has a longer shelf-life than most other dog foods, thanks to the inclusion of preservatives, that prevent spoilage. When analyzing the ingredients label these preservatives will appear as antimycotics and antioxidants, both of which serve different purposes. Antimycotics halt the growth of harmful bacteria and antioxidants prevent fats and oils from becoming sour. Alternatively, some brands
will make use of natural ingredients [rosemary extract or tocopherols {Vitamin E}] to extend shelf-life.
Should I be Feeding my Dog Dry Dog Food?
When considering if dry dog food is the right match for your dogs diet you also need to be mindful that the ingredients in dry dog food vary by brand and even by recipe.
There’re many different formulas that either highlight particular ingredients or target specific health needs.
Reading the ingredients label will be your best way to make an informed choice to ensuring your dog is receiving a balanced nutritional diet
Dry dog food also allows you to add different components, such as vegetables or mixing wet and dry dog food, which adds extra sources of nutrition to their diet.
You may be thinking “I look at the ingredients list, but what am I actually looking for on this list!?” Firstly, consider the protein source (beef, poultry, fish, eggs, lamb etc.) and where it falls on the ingredient list. Pet owners should look for the protein to be the first ingredient listed and be a single sourced protein. Secondly, be aware of “filler” or additional grains. Carbohydrates are required for energy, but having an overload can result in sacrificing other nutritional components.
Check out how to read a dog food label in our blog, Toxins in Dog Food.
Pros & Cons of Dry Dog Food
Pros
- Reduced dental plaque
- Healthier gums
- Reduced risk of bacteria
- Easier storage
- Less risk of spoilage
- Convenience
- Cost-effective
- Easy to use for food enrichment [food puzzles/slow feeders]
Cons
- Protein isn’t always the first ingredient
- Can be heavy on carbohydrates
- Potential of added sugar
Grain Free Dry Dog Food
If a dog food package is labelled as grain free, it’s also gluten-free. Grain free dog foods do contain specialized recipes in order to address that loss of particular nutrients and carbohydrates. This gap is filled with non-traditional carbohydrates such as peas, sweet potatoes, lentils, potatoes and/or quinoa. The biggest reason people transition their dog to a grain free diet is due to allergies or intolerance.
Grain free dog food is the best dog food for dry itchy skin, as this is a common sign of grain sensitivity. Likewise, it’s the best dry dog food for sensitive stomachs as it has removed many common ingredients that can trigger this discomfort in your dog.
Soft Dry Dog Food
Soft dry dog food is a balance between hard kibbles and wet dog foods. This added moisture, compared to standard dry dog food, allows for a tender and chewy meal. Soft dry dog food is ideal for dogs that either dislike regular hard kibbles or have weak teeth. Dogs that have trouble chewing, or have worn down teeth from old age, tend to be more comfortable when fed soft dry dog food too.
Good Dry Dog Food
Dry dog food is a great choice for dog owners thanks to its: convenience, cost effectiveness, easy storage ability, long shelf life, and reduced bacterial risk. Dry dog food caters to specific life stages [i.e. dry puppy food], health needs [i.e. low fat dry dog food or small dog dry food], and even breeds [i.e. dry food for French bulldogs] that can help owners narrow down their choices.
Between the Dog Food Specialists list here, and these more specific recipes that companies create, pet owners will be able to find the best dry dog food for their dog.
Despite having this knowledge in your back pocket, descriptive marketing and thousands of options make the choice challenging still!
That’s where the Dog Food Specialists come in! We have taken the guess work out of dry dog food for you by analyzing the wide market to compile our top picks.
Best Dry Adult Dog Food
Blue Buffalo Life Protection Formula Adult Chicken & Brown Rice Recipe Dry Dog Food
All formulas start with real meat, whole grains, garden veggies and fruit, plus added LifeSource Bits, a precise blend of nutrients that have been enhanced with a Super 7 package of antioxidant-rich ingredients.
This Adult Chicken & Brown Rice Recipe features delicious, protein-rich deboned chicken and other natural ingredients.
Key points:
- 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.
Best Grain Free Dry Dog Food
American Journey Salmon & Sweet Potato Recipe Grain-Free Dry Dog Food
The Salmon & Sweet Potato Recipe Grain-Free Dry Dog Food formula features real, deboned salmon with the protein and amino acids your dog needs for leaner muscles.
Key points:
- Grain-free dog food that’s also free of corn, wheat and soy to help food sensitive pets avoid fillers that might upset their stomach.
- Nutritious fruits and vegetables like blueberries, carrots and dried kelp provide vitamins, minerals, antioxidants for immune system support, and phytonutrients.
- High-protein dog food with real, deboned salmon is not only delicious for your pup but full of amino acids that help maintain lean muscle mass.
- Salmon oil and flaxseed provide omega-3 and 6 fatty acids, including long-chain DHA, which helps support your dog’s skin and coat health and brain and eye development.
- Includes fiber-rich chickpeas and sweet potatoes for energy that lasts throughout every adventure.
Best High Protein Dry Dog Food
Taste of the Wild High Prairie Grain-Free Dry Dog Food
Key Points:
- This roasted bison and venison dry dog food is crafted with real meat as the #1 ingredient and is high in protein (32%) to help support bones, joints and lean muscles.
- Crafted with vitamins and minerals from real fruits and superfoods, omega fatty acids for skin and coat health and nutrients for the energy your furry friend needs thrive!
- Contains species-specific K9 Strain Proprietary Probiotics, along with antioxidants and prebiotics to help support healthy digestion, immune system health and overall health and wellness.
- Made in the USA by a family-owned brand that only uses quality ingredients from trusted and sustainable local and global sources.
- Made without grains, corn, wheat, artificial flavors or artificial colors.
Best Sensitive Digestion Dry Dog Food
Purina Pro Plan Adult Sensitive Skin & Stomach Salmon & Rice Formula Dry Dog Food
This high-protein dry food for adult dogs is formulated to nurture your sidekick’s sensitive skin and stomach. It features real, nutrient-rich salmon as the very first ingredient in a highly-digestible recipe with rice and oatmeal.
This dry dog food is fortified with live probiotics and prebiotic fiber for your pet pal’s digestive and immune health
. It also contains omega-6 fatty acids and vitamin A to help nourish your cuddly companion’s skin and coat and omega-3 fatty acids to support healthy joints and mobility.
Key Points:
- This easily-digestible dog food is crafted without corn, wheat or soy.
- High-protein recipe features real, nutrient-rich salmon as the very first ingredient.
- Formulated to nurture your sidekick’s sensitive skin and stomach.
- Includes omega-6 fatty acids to help support a healthy skin and coat.
- Fortified with live probiotics and prebiotic fiber for digestive and immune health.
Best Chicken free Dry Dog Food
Taste of the Wild Pacific Stream Grain-Free Dry Dog Food
- This smoked salmon dry dog food is crafted with real fish as the #1 ingredient and is high in protein (32%) to help support bones, joints and lean muscles.
- Crafted with vitamins and minerals from real fruits and superfoods, omega fatty acids for skin and coat health and nutrients for the energy your furry friend needs thrive!
- Contains species-specific K9 Strain Proprietary Probiotics, along with antioxidants and prebiotics to help support healthy digestion, immune system health and overall health and wellness.
- Made in the USA by a family-owned brand that only uses quality ingredients from trusted and sustainable local and global sources.
- Made without grains, corn, wheat, artificial flavors or artificial colors.
Limited Ingredient Dry dog Food
Natural Balance Limited Ingredient Reserve Grain-Free Duck & Potato Recipe Dry Dog Food
Featuring protein-packed duck meat, fiber-rich potato, and nutritious flaxseed, this grain-free dog food helps support your pooch’s digestion, muscles, and immune system.
With no grains, soy, gluten, artificial colors, or artificial flavors, this hearty dog chow is the paw-fect meal for all kinds of pups—including those with sensitive stomachs, skin irritations, and allergies.
Key Points:
- Made with protein-rich duck meat that supports muscle health.
- The fiber-packed potato aids with digestion.
Includes immune system boosting flaxseed. - Free of grain, soy, gluten, artificial colors, and artificial flavors.
- Ideal for pups with allergies, digestive sensitivities, and skin irritation.
Best Dry Dog Food for Puppies
Taste of the Wild High Prairie Puppy Formula Grain-Free Dry Dog Food
- This roasted bison and roasted venison dry puppy food is crafted with real meat as the #1 ingredient and is high in protein (28%) to help support bones, joints and lean muscles.
- Crafted with vitamins and minerals from real fruits and superfoods, omega fatty acids for skin and coat health and nutrients for the energy your furry friend needs thrive!
- Contains species-specific K9 Strain Proprietary Probiotics, along with antioxidants and prebiotics to help support healthy digestion, immune system health and overall health and wellness.
- Made in the USA by a family-owned brand that only uses quality ingredients from trusted and sustainable local and global sources.
- Made without grains, corn, wheat, artificial flavors or artificial colors.
Best Dry Dog Food for Weight Control
Blue Buffalo Life Protection Formula Healthy Weight Adult Chicken & Brown Rice Recipe Dry Dog Food
All formulas start with real meat, whole grains, garden veggies and fruit, plus added LifeSource Bits, a precise blend of nutrients that have been enhanced with a Super 7 package of antioxidant-rich ingredients.
This Healthy Weight Adult Chicken & Brown Rice Recipe features delicious, protein-rich deboned chicken and is made without excess calories from fat to help dogs achieve and maintain a healthy weight.
- High-quality protein and L-Carnitine for lean muscle development and reduced calories from fat.
- Calcium, phosphorus and essential vitamins for strong bones and teeth.
- Glucosamine and chondroitin for joint health and mobility and Omega 3 and 6 fatty acids for healthy skin and coat.
- Vitamins, chelated minerals and antioxidants for immune system health.
- corn, wheat, soy or chicken (or poultry) by-product meals.
Best Senior Dry Dog Food
Blue Buffalo Life Protection Formula Senior Chicken & Brown Rice Recipe Dry Dog Food
All formulas start with real meat, whole grains, garden veggies and fruit, plus added LifeSource Bits, a precise blend of nutrients that have been enhanced with a Super 7 package of antioxidant-rich ingredients.
This Healthy Weight Adult Chicken & Brown Rice Recipe features delicious, protein-rich deboned chicken and is made without excess calories from fat to help dogs achieve and maintain a healthy weight.
- High-quality protein and L-Carnitine for lean muscle development and reduced calories from fat.
- Calcium, phosphorus and essential vitamins for strong bones and teeth.
- Glucosamine and chondroitin for joint health and mobility and Omega 3 and 6 fatty acids for healthy skin and coat.
- Vitamins, chelated minerals and antioxidants for immune system health.
- corn, wheat, soy or chicken (or poultry) by-product meals.
Best Hip & Joint Pain Relief for Dogs
Did you know that there is an all-natural method to relieve inflammation, pain, and discomfort in dogs that works better than pharmaceuticals? Check out our page on Canine Cush for Dogs.
Summing It Up
In 2020 dry dog food was the highest-selling commercial dog food, representing 74.8% of the market profits. That’s a lot of dogs eating dry dog food! With this type of popularity there’s no doubt that dry dog food is a reliable choice, but ensuring you choose a recipe that has ingredients to maintain nutritional balance is key.
That’s why the Dog Food Specialists will continue to inform about and highlight your options so you’re confident that you’re feeding your furry friend the best dry dog food option for them.
Did you know that a dog’s gut health has a significant influence on its overall health?
A recent scientific study reports that 70% to 80% of all illness begins in the gastrointestinal tract! discover why this supplement is essential for your dog’s immune system and overall health-Check out our guide on the best probiotic for dogs.
