Every pet parent wants to keep their dog strong, energetic, and healthy. To do this, it’s important that you feed your canine the best high-protein dog food — they come loaded with essential nutrients and muscle-building protein, supporting an active lifestyle, healthy aging, and everything in between. So, whether you have a puppy, a senior dog, or an athletic breed, high-protein dog food will provide them with the extra nourishment that they require.
There are multiple benefits of high-protein dog food — from improved muscle tone to better coat condition, increased stamina, and more. It’s also perfect for dogs who need a helping hand when it comes to bulking up — high-protein dog food for weight gain delivers calorically dense nutrition without compromising on the quality. Brands like Pedigree, Purina, and Orijen are some of the few trusted options in our list of the best high-protein dog food in the USA market — all of our picks deliver delicious, reliable nutrition.
The Benefits of High-Protein Dog Food
Feeding your fur baby a high-protein diet can make a huge difference in their health, energy levels, and longevity. Below, we’ve listed the most common benefits that your dog will experience when consuming high-protein dog food.
Development and Maintenance of Lean Muscles
Protein is very, very important when it comes to building and maintaining lean muscle mass, especially if you have a large breed dog. Bigger dogs require stronger muscles so that they can support their large frames. By feeding them the best high-protein dog food for large breeds, you can rest assured that your pooch is getting the right balance of protein and nutrients, ensuring that they stay active and agile, no matter their age.
Healthy Weight Gain and Recovery
If your four-legged companion is recovering from an injury, illness, or is just in need of putting on a few pounds, they are going to greatly benefit from consuming any high protein dog food for weight gain. Protein provides the body with the required amino acids that are needed for tissue repair, making it the ideal choice for pets with higher caloric and nutrient requirements.
Better Energy and Endurance
Some dogs have high activity levels, especially working or sporting breeds — they burn through energy quickly. When you feed them food that’s high in protein, it will help fuel their stamina and endurance, keeping them sharp, focused, and lively as they train or play.
Improved Skin and Coat Health
If you want your dog to have healthy skin and a shiny coat, you must prioritize protein in their diet. A good high-protein dog food is formulated to deliver the nutrients that are needed for lustrous, shiny fur.
Overall Wellness
A high-quality protein formula will usually include added vitamins, minerals, and fatty acids that will lead to good joint health, immune function, and digestion. Some top options are the Purina high-protein dog food and the Pedigree high-protein range which are trusted to deliver consistent results.
How Much Protein Is Too Much for a Dog?
Although we’ve seen that adequate protein is essential for your dog’s health, excessive amounts of it can put a strain on your pet’s kidneys. This is especially true if you have a canine that’s again, or if your pooch has any underlying health conditions. The ideal amount of dog food protein per 100g depends on your dog’s age, breed, and activity levels; however, most healthy adult canines can have 18-25g of protein in every 100g of their food.
Too much protein will lead to dehydration over time, also worsening any kidney issues. That’s why, it’s important to check your dog’s food label and consult a veterinarian if you’re not sure about exactly how much protein your pet needs per meal/day.
The Best High-Protein Dog Food to Buy in 2025
Now that you know the importance of a high-protein diet, let’s take a look at some of the best options that are available in today’s market:
BEST OVERALL
Pedigree High Protein Wet Food Variety Pack
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Why We Love
Available in other flavors like bacon, cheese, and filet mignon
Single-serve packets
Highly nutritious
Affordable
Easy to dispense
But…
Some dogs don’t like the new recipe
This Pedigree high-protein wet dog food is made with 35% more protein than the regular Pedigree Choice Cuts in Gravy. It comes in a pack of 18 and is crafted with real beef, chicken, or turkey, delivering irresistible flavours that your dog will relish. This wet food acts as a 100% complete and balanced meal for adult dogs, ensuring that your pooch is happy and satisfied — you can use it as a topper, mix it up with dry dog food, or serve it by itself. What’s great about this variety pack is that it’s made in factories that are committed to producing zero waste to landfills.
Best for Canine Athletes
Purina Pro Plan Performance 30/20
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Why We Love
Offers hip and joint support
Great for skin and coat health
Comes in different tasty flavors
Suitable for all ages
But…
Might not be suitable for dogs with sensitive stomachs
The concentrated nutrition in this Purina high-protein dog food optimizes oxygen metabolism, increasing your canine’s endurance. Using real salmon as its primary ingredient, you can rest assured that your dog will get the protein that they need when consuming this formula. Additionally, the food is fortified with guaranteed live probiotics that promote better digestive and immune health. The amino acids that are present nourish your pet’s muscles, which is especially important after they exercise. Previously known as Purina Sport Performance 30/20, this is a great dog food for all athletic dog breeds.
Most Nutritious
Orijen Amazing Grains Original
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Why We Love
90% premium animal ingredients
No legume ingredients
Made in the USA
For all dog breeds and life stages
Contains whole oats, oat groats, quinoa, and chia
But…
The kibble size might be too large for toy breeds
This high-protein Orijen dog food kibble is formulated to deliver maximum nutrition for canines by providing 3 key benefits — better digestive health, improved immune support, and a healthier skin and coat. The dry food contains 90% animal ingredients, which include Orijen WholePrey ingredients, such as poultry and organs, so that you can give your dog the most succulent, nutrient-rich parts of the prey. The first five ingredients are always fresh or raw poultry and fish, to provide a rich source of protein, vitamins, and minerals, as well as grains that are sourced from non-GMO crops. The best part is the freeze-dried coating that has a burst of raw flavour — something that dogs instinctively crave.
Most Easily Digestible
Acana Highest Protein Wild Atlantic Recipe
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Why We Love
Gluten-free
The first 3 ingredients are mackerel, herring, and redfish
Contains prebiotics and probiotics
Freeze-dried coating
No artificial colors, flavors, or preservatives
But…
Pet parents might not like the strong fishy smell
Acana’s Highest Protein Wild Atlantic Recipe is made up of 70% animal ingredients and is balanced out with 30% wholesome fruits and vegetables. It features a freeze-dried coating on the kibble that adds a rich, tempting flavor that dogs won’t be able to get enough of. It also has a high fiber content and is the highest protein offering out of all the Acana dog food products. Lastly, this premium kibble is made right here in the USA, using the highest quality ingredients that are sourced from across the globe.
Best Grain-Free
Taste of the Wild High Prairie Canine Recipe
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Why We Love
Contains guaranteed nutrients and probiotics
Comes in a wide variety of flavors
Highly digestible protein
Crafted especially for adult dogs
Dried chicory root is used as a source of prebiotic fiber
But…
Crafted in a facility that makes other foods using grains
Made with roasted bison and venison, this Taste of the Wild dog food uses real meat as the first ingredient in its recipe, with a high protein content of 32%, which supports the bones, joints, and lean muscles. Since it is rich in nutrients, your fur baby will get the energy that they need to thrive. There are also vitamins and minerals that are derived from fruits and superfoods, as well as omega fatty acids for healthy skin and coat. Furthermore, each serving includes species-specific K9 Strain Proprietary Probiotics, along with antioxidants and prebiotics, all to support healthy digestion, the immune system, and overall health and wellness. The brand is family-owned, and all of their products are made in the USA using premium ingredients.
Best for Small Breeds
Diamond Naturals Small Breed Puppy Chicken & Rice Formula
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Why We Love
No corn, wheat, or fillers
No artificial flavors, colors, or preservatives
Made with scientifically advanced food safety protocols
Offers hip and joint support
Superfoods for high nutritional value
PRO
But…
The bags rip open easily during the shipping process
To provide your pooch with high-quality protein, this Diamond Naturals puppy food uses cage-free chicken that’s ideal for growing small-breed puppies — the optimal amino acid profile for lean and strong muscles. It also contains added vitamins and minerals, fruits and vegetables as superfoods for antioxidants, and a fatty acids blend for the skin and coat. The kibble size is smaller and highly digestible, containing proprietary probiotics at guaranteed levels, along with DHA for vision and the brain. This is yet another family-owned brand on our list that crafts its products in the USA, using ingredients from trusted, sustainable sources from around the world.
Best Vet-Reviewed
Nutrish High Protein Beef, Potato & Peas Recipe With Venison & Lamb
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Why We Love
Suitable for all life stages
Provides sustained energy
Supports a healthy heart
The formula is reviewed by vets
Contains naturally rich sources of omega-6 and omega-3 fatty acids
But…
It may take some time getting used to
If you’re looking for premium, high-protein dog food, then this one from Nutrish is one of the top choices available on the market — it contains beef, potatoes, peas, venison, and lamb! It is made up of 30% protein, with real beef being the #1 ingredient, aiding lean muscle mass. The formula contains absolutely no poultry by-product meal, artificial preservatives, flavors, or colors, and is loaded with added vitamins, minerals, and taurine. Plus, with every purchase of any Rachael Ray dog food, you are supporting animals in need through the Rachael Ray Foundation.
Best Calorie-rich
Bully Max Premium Dry Dog Food
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Why We Love
High-calorie formula (535 calories/cup)
30/20 protein-to-fat ratio
Meets AAFCO standards for all life stages
Has immune-boosting vitamins C and E
Includes freeze-dried toppers
Free from corn, soy, wheat, and artificial additives
But…
May be too calorie-dense for less active or overweight dogs
Some dogs need more than just protein — such as extra fuel for energy, muscle-building, or healthy weight gain — and that is where Bully Max Premium Dry Dog Food comes in. Each cup is packed with a hefty 535 calories, making it a calorie-dense option that supports active dogs or those struggling to keep weight on. Paired with a 30/20 protein-to-fat ratio, it’s ideal for working breeds, growing puppies, or dogs bouncing back from illness. The meat-based formula features real chicken meal, brown rice, and whitefish meal for omega fatty acids, rounded out with essential fiber and fats. It’s free from corn, soy, wheat, and artificial fillers, and comes bundled with freeze-dried toppers for an added immune and flavor boost.
Best Gluten-free
VICTOR Hi-Pro Plus Dry Kibble
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Why We Love
Supports easier digestion
30% protein content from multiple animal sources
Suitable for nursing dogs
Includes VPRO Blend
Ideal for active or working dogs
But…
Not formulated for large breed puppies over 70 lbs
For dogs who thrive on hearty, meat-first meals without the added gluten, VICTOR Hi-Pro Plus Dry Kibble gives them sustained energy through a rich blend of beef, chicken, pork, and fish meals. Its gluten-free formula is easy on digestion while still packing a 30% protein punch, making it especially supportive for active dogs, growing pups, and nursing mothers. This nutrient-dense kibble supports healthy development at every stage. It also includes the brand’s proprietary VPRO Blend — a mix of targeted supplements and minerals designed to help dogs reach their full potential. Proudly crafted in the USA, this food reflects a commitment to quality ingredients sourced close to home.
Best for Immune System Support
Blue Buffalo Wilderness Rocky Mountain Recipe
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Why We Love
Real beef is the first ingredient
LifeSource Bits offer immune system support
Free from corn, wheat, soy, and by-product meals
Made with wholesome, natural ingredients
Suitable for adult dogs of various breeds
But…
May not be ideal for dogs with grain sensitivities
Blue Buffalo Wilderness Rocky Mountain Recipe is made for dogs who could do with a bit of support to their immune system. With real red meat as the first ingredient and antioxidant-rich LifeSource Bits blended into every bite, this formula helps strengthen your dog’s natural defenses while fueling their daily adventures. It’s packed with the right mix of protein and carbs for active pups and completely avoids corn, wheat, soy, or poultry by-product meals. For pet parents who want clean, balanced nutrition without sacrificing quality, this is a good pick. Your dog will stay strong, healthy, and ready for any adventure with this grain-inclusive kibble.
Best Air-dried
ZIWI Peak Air-Dried Dog Food
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Why We Love
Air-dried to preserve nutrients and flavor
Made with free-range, ethically sourced meat
Grain-free and free from fillers
Can be used as a meal, topper, or treat
Shelf-stable with no need for refrigeration
But…
Higher price point than traditional kibble
ZIWI Peak Air-Dried Dog Food gives a unique spin on high-protein nutrition by gently air-drying raw, premium ingredients like free-range beef, organs, and New Zealand green mussels. This slow and careful process locks in nutrients without the need for artificial preservatives or harsh cooking, which means your dog gets a jerky-style meal that’s as tasty as it is nourishing. With no fillers, grains, or synthetic additives, each bite has concentrated nutrition that supports joint health, digestion, and a glossy coat. It’s versatile enough to be fed as a complete meal, topper, or treat — great for picky eaters or sensitive stomachs. Plus, thanks to its shelf-stable format, you get all the benefits of raw feeding without the hassle of refrigeration or thawing.
Best with Traceable Ingredients
Badlands Ranch Superfood Complete, Adult Dog Food
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Why We Love
Made with traceable, responsibly sourced ingredients
Includes antioxidant-rich fruits and gut-friendly vegetables
Air-dried to retain nutritional value
Free from corn, wheat, soy, and fillers
Suitable for all breeds and life stages
But…
Texture may be too firm for some dogs to chew easily
If you care as much about where your dog’s food comes from as what’s in it, Badlands Ranch Superfood Complete is a standout choice. Made with traceable, responsibly sourced ingredients, this air-dried food features premium U.S. beef, wild-caught salmon, and nutrient-rich organ meats. It’s paired with gut-friendly vegetables like pumpkin and sweet potato, plus antioxidant-packed superfoods like chia seeds and blueberries. A high-protein, filler-free recipe that promotes good digestion, long-lasting energy, and general vitality is the end product. Free from corn, wheat, soy, or artificial additives, it’s crafted to nourish dogs of all breeds and life stages. With every bite, you’re giving your dog clean, transparent nutrition — backed by a commitment to animal welfare and thoughtful sourcing.
How We Chose the Best High-Protein Dog Food
To come up with a list of the best high-protein dog food, our experts conducted an in-depth evaluation of the quality of ingredients, protein sources, and nutritional balance while going through real-world high-protein dog food USA reviews. We also worked with vets and pet nutritionists to find out which were the safest options. Lastly, we tested these options on our fur babies to see if canines really like them. When you choose from our list, you can rest assured that you’re getting top-notch nutrition for your pet.
FAQ
Is 30% protein too much in dog food?
No, 30% protein is not too much in dog food and is generally considered ideal if you have an active, growing, or working dog. However, if your dog is a senior or isn’t very active, then you can lower the amount of protein that you’re feeding them.
Is high-protein dog food better for dogs?
As mentioned above, high-protein dog food is good for active, growing, and working dogs. For less active canines, senior dogs, and pets with health conditions, high levels of protein might not be a great choice.
Is Pedigree high in protein?
This depends on which Pedigree product you choose — their standard adult “Complete Nutrition” formulas usually contain about 21-26% crude protein, which is just a moderate level. However, there is a high-protein range that you can purchase from.
How to increase protein for dogs?
It is recommended that you gradually increase the amount of protein that your dog consumes by switching to a high-protein kibble that’s mixed with lean cooked meats, eggs, or plain Greek yogurt.
Does high-protein make dogs gain weight?
High-protein diets won’t necessarily lead to weight gain — dogs will only put on extra pounds if their calorie intake is more than what they burn. This is regardless of whether they come from protein, fat, or carbohydrates.
What protein level is best for dogs?
The ideal level of protein for your dog will depend on their life stage, activity level, and health status. Generally, adult dogs should consume 20-30% crude protein, while puppies and active or working breeds should aim for 25-32%.
How much protein is in Purina High Protein dog food?
This will vary depending on the type of Purina High-Protein dog food. We suggest that you take a look at the labels on the packaging to get a more accurate idea.
What is crude protein?
Crude protein is the total amount of protein in a feed or food — it is calculated by measuring the nitrogen content and multiplying this by a conversion factor (usually 6.25), expressed as a percentage.
Are eggs a good protein for dogs?
Yes! Eggs, when cooked, are a great, highly digestible source of complete protein and essential amino acids for dogs. It’s best if you serve them plain and in moderation.
What is a good protein level for dog food?
For healthy adult dogs, a diet that contains 20-30% crude protein on a dry matter basis is great. If you have a growing puppy or an athletic, working breed, then a higher level of 25-32% is ideal. Dogs who aren’t that active or senior pets require a lower amount.
