The Best Quality Dog Food In 2024

Factors to Consider When Choosing the Best Dog Food Brand

When choosing the best quality dog food, it’s important to consider factors such as nutritional content, ingredient sourcing, and quality control and safety standards. These elements play a crucial role in ensuring that your furry friend is getting the best possible nutrition.

Nutritional Content

High-quality dog food doesn’t just fill your furry friend’s belly; it meets all their nutritional needs, too. For puppies, look for formulas with 22% protein and 8% fat to support their speedy growth — right as the AAFCO recommends.

Carbs matter as well, so keep an eye out for wholesome grains like brown rice and oatmeal or veggies such as sweet potatoes and peas.

Your adult dogs require a balanced diet that fuels their day-to-day activities. Ensure the food you choose includes a variety of proteins, carbs, and fats. Ingredients like barley, carrots, and cranberries contribute to this balance while also offering essential vitamins and nutrients that promote overall health.

Look for the best quality dog food brands that understand canine nutrition is more than just meat on bones—it’s about sustaining their playful spirit through a perfectly crafted diet.

Ingredient Sourcing

Ingredient sourcing is vital for the best quality dog food. Brands that commit to high standards tend to select their ingredients with care, ensuring they are wholesome and safe for your furry friends.

Look for companies that source meats, grains, and vegetables from reputable suppliers who uphold ethical farming practices. This means avoiding foods with fillers like corn or soy, which do not offer much nutritional value.

Great dog food makers often use locally sourced ingredients to guarantee freshness and support local farmers, contributing positively to communities and reducing carbon footprints associated with long-distance shipping.

These practices highlight a dedication not only to your pet’s health but also to environmental stewardship. Choose brands transparent about where they get their raw materials; it reflects on the overall quality of the food you feed your beloved pets.

Quality Control and Safety Standards

Quality control and safety standards play a pivotal role in the production of the best quality dog food. These benchmarks ensure that every bag of kibble or can of wet food is not only nutritious but also safe for your furry friend to consume.

Brands adhering to the Association of American Feed Control Officials (AAFCO) guidelines meet rigorous requirements, guaranteeing the right nutritional balance for your pet’s wellbeing.

Manufacturers who prioritize these standards often conduct thorough testing, both during and after production, to catch any potential issues before they reach your dog’s bowl. Leading brands recommended by veterinarians are trusted because they consistently maintain high safety protocols.

As you look for top-tier nutrition for small dogs, golden retrievers, puppies, or any breed – from budget-friendly options at Walmart to premium selections at PetSmart – always check that their products align with these critical safety measures.

Top Picks for the Best Quality Dog Food in 2024

Premium Natural Dry Dog Food

Highlights

• Formulated with natural ingredients for optimal nutrition
• Features a delicious chicken and vegetable flavor
• Made in the USA by Rachael Ray Nutrish
• Suitable for adult dogs of all breeds and sizes
• Pellet form makes it easy to serve and store
• Available in a 40-pound package, ensuring lasting supply

Delight your furry best friend with Rachael Ray Nutrish Real Chicken & Veggies Recipe, a top-tier choice when it comes to nourishing and appetizing meals for dogs. Crafted with real chicken as the main ingredient, this dry dog food champions protein-rich sustenance that’s essential for maintaining robust muscles and overall vitality in adult dogs. Not only does the formula shun poultry by-products and fillers, but it also sidesteps any artificial flavors or preservatives that could compromise your pet’s health.

Beyond its premium natural ingredients, this recipe includes peas and brown rice—natural fibers that promote easy digestion—and is fortified with vital vitamins and taurine. The carefully selected mix supports energy levels while nurturing a lustrous coat thanks to omega fatty acids from natural chicken fat. Dog owners rave about seeing an improvement in their pup’s energy levels and coat shine after making the switch to this wholesome blend.

Choosing Rachael Ray Nutrish for your dog means you’re not just prioritizing their health; you’re contributing to animal welfare causes, too, since proceeds assist animals in need through The Rachael Ray Foundation™. This heartfelt connection has helped propel Premium Natural Dry Dog Food to our number one spot—it marries quality nutrition with altruistic values, creating more than just a meal but a movement towards better care for all dogs.

Pros

• Real chicken is the #1 ingredient for lean muscle support
• No artificial flavors or preservatives for a natural diet
• Fiber sources like peas and brown rice aid in healthy digestion
• Packed with added vitamins, minerals, and taurine for overall health

Cons

• May receive either bag due to packaging updates
• No grain-free options available
• Large bag sizes may not be suitable for all dog owners

Rachael Ray Nutrish Natural Dry Dog Food with Real Chicken is a flavorful and nutritious option for your canine companion. Crafted with real U.S. farm-raised chicken as the primary ingredient, this recipe provides essential proteins for muscle development. With added vitamins and minerals, this well-balanced dog food supports overall health, while natural prebiotics aid in digestion. Free from artificial preservatives, flavors, and poultry by-product meal, Rachael Ray Nutrish offers a wholesome and tasty meal option for your furry friend. Elevate your dog’s dining experience with this delicious blend, thoughtfully designed to meet their nutritional needs.

IAMS Adult Minichunks

Highlights

• Contains holistic special ingredients for immune support, weight management, and digestive health
• Dry dog food designed specifically for adult dogs
• Made by IAMS in the USA
• Generous 30-pound size
• Formulated to support muscle health

When it comes to top-notch nutrition for your furry friend, IAMS Adult Minichunks makes an impressive mark. This dry dog food merges high-quality animal protein from real, farm-raised chicken with no artificial preservatives, ensuring your pet gets a wholesome meal. The carefully sized small kibble is perfect for adult dogs who prefer a more manageable bite, promoting strong muscles and maintaining overall health.

Dog owners often search for food that supports their pet’s digestion and immune system. IAMS Minichunks stands out as it includes a rich blend of fibers and prebiotics aimed at healthy digestion along with antioxidants essential for boosting the immune system. Not only does this premium dog food serve up a complete and balanced diet that’s vet-recommended, but its commitment to quality ingredients sourced responsibly makes it our number two pick.

Choosing IAMS Adult Minichunks means you’re mindful of your dog’s dietary requirements without compromising on taste or nutritional value. In the realm of super-premium dog foods in 2024, its comprehensive approach ticks all boxes—a testament to why discerning pet parents trust this brand to fuel their dogs’ active lives.

Pros

• Tailored nutrition for your dog’s unique needs
• Complete and balanced nutrition with high-quality animal protein
• Supports healthy digestion and a strong immune system
• Small kibble size with real, farm-raised chicken as the first ingredient

Cons

• Some dogs may not prefer the small kibble size
• More expensive compared to some other dog food brands

IAMS ProActive Health Adult Minichunks Dry Dog Food with Chicken is a carefully formulated option to support your dog’s overall well-being. Featuring real farm-raised chicken as the main ingredient, this dry dog food provides essential proteins for muscle maintenance and strength. With a blend of wholesome grains and antioxidants, this nutritionally balanced formula supports a healthy immune system and helps maintain a shiny coat. IAMS ProActive Health Minichunks offers a tasty and complete diet for your adult dog, ensuring they get the nourishment they need to thrive.

Pawstruck All Natural Air Dried Dog Food

Highlights

• Made with all-natural, air-dried chicken for a wholesome diet
• Suitable for dogs of all life stages, providing a complete and balanced nutrition
• Manufactured in the USA to ensure high-quality standards
• Convenient pellet form for easy feeding and portion control
• Packed with essential nutrients to support an active lifestyle

Pawstruck All Natural Air Dried Dog Food takes your furry friend’s mealtime to the next level with its high-quality, grain-free formula. Real chicken, making up 97% of this wholesome food, caters to your dog’s natural carnivorous diet while ensuring they’re getting the protein they need for a robust and active life. Thoughtfully crafted in the USA without GMOs and packed with flaxseed, salmon oil, vitamins, and minerals, Pawstruck supports not just muscle growth but also joint health—a huge plus for pet parents who want their companions to be lively and agile through all stages of life.

Making it to No. 3 on our list wasn’t by chance; consistency is key with Pawstruck. The air drying process used preserves nutrients more effectively than traditional kibble does, providing a convenient alternative to raw or freeze-dried diets without sacrificing nutritional value. Its crunchy texture entices even the pickiest eaters among small and large breeds alike. This vet-recommended feed produced in an SQF-certified facility stands out as a reliable choice for those seeking complete nutrition wrapped in safety and quality standards that are second to none.

By selecting Pawstruck Air Dried Dog Food for our top picks, we acknowledge how vital each ingredient is—from every chunk of real chicken down to the omega-rich salmon oil—for delivering a balanced diet free from preservatives or fillers. It mirrors what health-conscious dog owners strive for premium care within a bowl that their pets can’t resist diving into day after day.

Pros

• Specially designed for picky eaters of all sizes and ages
• Vet-recommended, AAFCO Compliant, and made in an SQF-certified facility
• Crafted with real chicken as the #1 ingredient for carnivore cravings
• Slowly oven-roasted at low temperature to retain maximum nutrition

Cons

• May be more expensive compared to some other dry dog foods
• Some dogs may not prefer the crunchy texture
• Limited availability in some retail locations

For discerning dog owners dedicated to providing their furry friends with the highest quality nutrition, Pawstruck All Natural Air Dried Dog Food stands out as a stellar choice. This premium dog food boasts a meticulously crafted grain-free formula, ensuring a diet that aligns with veterinary recommendations for optimal health. Elevate your pup’s culinary experience with a blend that not only meets but exceeds the standards of grain-free dog food. Pamper your four-legged friend with the epitome of canine culinary excellence, as Pawstruck All Natural Air Dried Dog Food delivers not just a meal but an exquisite dining experience that prioritizes both taste and nutrition.

Blue Buffalo Dog Food

Highlights

• Supports healthy joints, skin, and coat
• Promotes a strong immune system
• Beneficial for bone health
• Dry formula suitable for adult dogs
• Made with chicken and brown rice flavor
• Manufactured in the USA

Blue Buffalo Dog Food is a standout choice for pet parents looking to provide their furry family members with high-quality, natural nutrition. With real deboned chicken leading its ingredient list, this 34 lb bag of Life Protection Formula delivers a protein-rich diet that supports strong muscles essential for your dog’s active lifestyle. The combination of wholesome brown rice and nutrient-packed vegetables not only satisfies taste buds but also fuels your canine companion with the necessary carbs for boundless energy.

Beyond taste and energy, Blue Buffalo goes the extra mile by including exclusive LifeSource Bits in every scoop. These powerful pellets are packed with antioxidants, vitamins, and minerals tailored to bolster the immune system. Pet owners can appreciate that this dry dog food steers clear of any poultry by-products as well as corn, wheat, or soy fillers that often cause digestive issues in dogs. Plus, omega-3 & 6 fatty acids ensure your four-legged friend sports a shiny coat and healthy skin all year round. Choosing Blue Buffalo means offering your dog top-notch nourishment from nose to tail while avoiding artificial flavors or preservatives that don’t belong in a premium pet food bowl.

Pros

• Blue Buffalo Dog Food contains LifeSource Bits, a blend of antioxidants, vitamins, and minerals to support immune system health
• Formulated with essential proteins and carbs for energy needs and omega-3 & 6 fatty acids to promote healthy skin and coat
• Made with premium ingredients and contains no chicken or poultry – products, corn, wheat, or soy
• Features high-quality deboned chicken as the primary ingredient for strong muscles

Cons

• Some dogs may not like the taste
• The price is on the higher side compared to other brands
• Large bag size may be difficult to store for some pet owners

Spoil your pup with top-quality Blue Buffalo Dog Food. It’s packed with great natural stuff and special bits to keep your furry friend healthy. If you want your dog to eat the best in 2024, go for Blue Buffalo Dog Food. Your pup will love it, and you’ll love seeing them happy and healthy!

Diamond Premium Recipe

Highlights

• Provides hip and joint support for adult dogs
• Available in a dry formula
• Made with maintenance flavor
• Produced by Diamond Pet Foods, Inc. in the USA
• Large 40-pound pack size

Diamond Premium Recipe Maintenance Dog Food stands out as a top pick for pet parents who want to nourish their moderately active canine companions. Its formula hits the mark with a balanced blend of 22% protein and 12% fat, catering perfectly to your dog’s energy needs without going overboard. The inclusion of fiber promotes digestive health, ensuring that your furry friend absorbs all the goodness from each bite. With this recipe, Diamond has made it possible for dogs to maintain an ideal body condition, sporting a shiny coat thanks to guaranteed omega fatty acid levels.

This isn’t just another bag of dry dog food; every 40lb package is packed full of antioxidants that support robust immune systems in our four-legged pals. Pet owners can breathe easy knowing they’re feeding their dogs something crafted with safety and quality in mind, given Diamond’s rigorous standards and commitment to sourcing sustainable ingredients globally. By choosing this premium recipe, you’re not only opting for affordability but also investing in your dog’s long-term health – something any conscientious owner values highly.

Every scoop delivers essential nutrients like calcium and vitamin E, reinforcing bone strength and overall vitality. Moreover, beneficial bacteria such as Lactobacillus plantarum are blended right into the mix, supporting gut health, which could mean fewer tummy troubles down the road. Proof positive—dog enthusiasts are noticing happier pets with more wagging tails since making the switch to Diamond Premium Recipe Maintenance Complete and Balanced Dry Dog Food.

Pros

• Premium ingredients for a complete and balanced diet
• Antioxidants and omega fatty acids for a healthy immune system, skin, and coat
• Carefully determined levels of protein and fat to support an ideal body condition
• Fiber to support digestive health

Cons

• Some dogs may not like the taste
• May be pricey for some budgets
• Not suitable for highly active dogs

The Diamond Premium Recipe Maintenance Complete and Balanced Dry Dog Food is perfect for caring pet owners who want to provide their moderately active dogs with a high-quality, nutritious diet. Give your dog the best nutrition for a healthy and vibrant life.

Wellness CORE Grain-Free High-Protein Dry Dog Food

Highlights

• Formulated for adult dogs
• Grain-free and high in protein
• Ocean flavor for variety
• Made in the USA by Wellness
• Suitable for ages one month and up
• Available in a 4-pound bag

Wellness CORE Grain-Free High-Protein Dry Dog Food stands out as a superior choice for your canine companion. Crafted in the USA with high-quality, non-GMO ingredients, this dog food prioritizes your pet’s health and vitality. It features real whitefish, herring, and salmon as top components, delivering an impressive 47% protein content to support lean muscle mass and overall body condition.

The absence of grains, alongside no use of corn, wheat, or soy, makes it an excellent option for dogs with sensitivities. This recipe includes omega fatty acids from flaxseed and salmon oil that promote lustrous coats and robust skin health. Glucosamine fortifies joint strength, while probiotics aid in maintaining digestive balance.

Owners looking to fuel their adult dogs with nutrient-dense meals will find Wellness CORE meets every need without compromising on taste or quality. Its balanced blend of natural proteins, antioxidants, and essential vitamins ensures each feeding contributes to a hearty, energetic lifestyle for all breeds. Whether at play or rest, your dog will benefit from the thoughtful formulation designed to foster peak wellbeing through every stage of adulthood.

Pros

• Promotes a healthy coat and digestive health
• Supports leaner body mass and muscle tone
• Made with non-GMO ingredients
• Grain-free formula for adult dogs

Cons

• Not suitable for dogs with fish allergies

For pet owners deeply committed to their dog’s health, Wellness CORE Grain-Free High-Protein Dry Dog Food emerges as an ideal choice. Crafted in the USA, this premium dog food prioritizes real meat and natural ingredients, ensuring a grain-free diet that aligns with your health-conscious values. With a high-protein formula, it not only meets but exceeds the nutritional standards for a wholesome canine diet.

ORIJEN Original Dry Dog Food

Highlights

• Supports immune health
• Formulated for adult dogs
• Made with yummy flavors
• Produced in the USA

ORIJEN Original Dry Dog Food stands out as a premium choice for dog owners who prioritize their pet’s nutrition. Its composition of 85 percent quality animal ingredients, featuring free-run chicken and turkey alongside wild-caught fish like flounder and mackerel, ensures your furry friend gets a protein-packed meal that mirrors their natural dietary needs. The inclusion of ORIJEN WholePrey ingredients means your dog benefits from vital nutrients found in the organs and bones, just as they would in the wild. This well-crafted formula supports not only muscle growth but also maintains a glossy coat and robust immune system due to its rich Omega-3 and Omega-6 fatty acid content.

Crafted with care in the USA, this grain-free dry dog food offers a hearty meal without unnecessary fillers that could disrupt digestion. For dogs at any stage of life, it serves up essential vitamins and minerals delivered through fresh or raw meat varieties that are responsibly sourced. Owners can rest easy knowing that what’s going into their pet’s bowl is devoid of cages – just high-quality poultry with freedom to roam***. Pet parents looking for top-tier nourishment will appreciate how ORIJEN goes above standard kibbles by freezing raw ingredients to lock in freshness – delivering unprocessed goodness every time you pour it into your dog’s dish.

Pros

• Supports immune function and overall health through all life stages
• Made with high-quality, nutrient-rich ingredients for optimal digestion
• Grain-free formula tailored to promote healthy skin and coat
• Contains 85% animal protein to support strong muscles and vitality

Cons

• Relatively high price point compared to other dog food options
• Some dogs may require an adjustment period due to the rich and nutrient-dense ingredients used in the formula
• Strong odor of some of the raw ingredients might be unpleasant for some pet owners

Perfect for dog owners seeking top-notch nutrition for their furry companions. Elevate your dog’s health and wellbeing with ORIJEN Original Dry Dog Food today.

Wag Dry Dog Food

Highlights

• Supports brain, immune system, bones, dental care, and joints
• Pellet form for easy feeding
• Specifically designed for adult dogs
• Made with salmon flavor for palatability
• Produced in the USA
• Generously sized 30-pound bag

Wag Dry Dog Food, featuring salmon and brown rice, serves up a culinary feast for your furry friend that brings together taste and nutrition. Sustainably sourced American salmon tops the ingredient list, ensuring your dog gets a high-quality protein punch with every meal. The careful blend also includes brown rice—a wholesome source of carbohydrates—perfect to keep your pup energized throughout their adventurous days.

This Amazon Brand has gone the extra mile with vet-formulated recipes packed with added calcium for strong bones and teeth, alongside guaranteed levels of glucosamine to support joint health. As pet owners ourselves, we appreciate the importance of brain function and immunity; thankfully, Wag Dry Dog Food is brimming with antioxidants and DHA to address these needs, too.

With no trace of by-product meals or filler ingredients like corn, wheat, or soy, as well as artificial additives in sight, this dry food ensures you’re serving purity in a bowl. Your satisfaction is kept front-of-mind;— if it’s not love at first bite for your pooch within a year of purchase—you’re promised a full refund. Transitioning your dog’s diet can be smooth sailing following the guidelines on each bag; it’s just another way Wag supports you in maintaining your pup’s well-being without any hassles.

Pros

• Sustainably raised American salmon is the #1 ingredient
• No by-product meal, corn, wheat, soy, artificial colors, flavors, or preservatives
• Added calcium and phosphorus plus guaranteed glucosamine for joints
• Formulated with help from veterinarians and pet nutritionists

Cons

• Some dogs may not like the taste of salmon
• Price point may be higher than some other brands

The Wag Dry Dog Food is ideal for pet owners who want to provide their dogs with high-quality, vet-formulated nutrition made in the USA. If you’re looking for a premium dog food that supports bone and joint health while being free from fillers and artificial additives, give Wag Dry Dog Food a try today.

Taste of the Wild Diamond Naturals

Highlights

• Formulated for senior dogs to support their coat health
• Made with real chicken as the primary flavor
• Manufactured in the USA by the Taste of the Wild brand
• Produced by Diamond Pet Foods, Inc., a reputable manufacturer
• Available in a 6-pound bag

When it comes to nurturing your aging canine companion, Taste of the Wild Diamond Naturals Senior Real Meat Recipe stands out with its premium ingredients designed specifically for older dogs. This high-quality dry dog food is crafted with real cage-free chicken, providing a top-notch protein source that supports a lean body condition and overall health in your senior pet’s golden years.

Your loyal friend deserves nothing but the best nutrition, and this recipe delivers just that: it’s packed with superfoods like fruits and vegetables, offering potent antioxidants to boost their immune system. The addition of glucosamine and chondroitin promotes joint health—an essential feature for maintaining mobility as they age. Without any corn, wheat, or artificial additives, you can rest assured knowing you’re giving them a meal free from unnecessary fillers or harmful preservatives.

Elevate your senior dog’s diet with the advanced safety protocols behind Taste of the Wild Diamond Naturals. You’ll not only support their digestion through species-specific probiotics but also enhance their skin and coat thanks to an optimal blend of fatty acids. Proudly made in the USA by a family-owned business committed to sustainability, this dry dog food ensures that each serving contributes to your furry friend’s vitality and wellbeing.

Pros

• Real cage-free chicken maintains ideal body condition for senior dogs
• Proprietary, senior-specific probiotics improve digestive health
• Nutrient-rich and highly digestible formula supports overall wellbeing
• Added glucosamine and chondroitin promote joint health

Cons

• It may be expensive for some pet owners
• The 6lb pack size may not be sufficient for larger senior dogs
• Some dogs may have allergies to specific ingredients in the formula

The Taste of the Wild Diamond Naturals Senior Real Meat Recipe Premium Dry Dog Food is perfect for pet owners who prioritize their senior dog’s health and wellbeing. Treat your furry friend to the best quality nutrition that supports joint health, skin, coat maintenance, and overall vitality.

FAQs

Q: What is the best quality dog food?

A: The best quality dog food is one that is balanced, nutritionally complete, and tailored to meet the specific needs of your dog’s breed, size, age, and dietary preferences.

Q: How do I choose the best dog food for my pet?

A: When choosing the best dog food for your pet, consider factors such as their age, size, breed, activity level, any dietary restrictions, and consult with your veterinarian for personalized recommendations.

Q: Is dry dog food better than wet dog food?

A: Both dry and wet dog food can be nutritious options for your pet. Dry dog food is often more convenient and helps promote dental health, while wet dog food can be more palatable and provide additional hydration.

Q: What are some considerations when selecting the best dry dog food?

A: When selecting the best dry dog food, look for options that contain high-quality protein sources, essential nutrients, are free of fillers and artificial additives, and are suitable for your dog’s life stage and dietary needs.

Q: How can I ensure the dog food I choose is the best for my dog?

A: To ensure the dog food you choose is the best for your dog, read the food label carefully, check for reputable brands, consult with your vet, consider your dog’s individual preferences and needs, and monitor their health and well-being after introducing the new food.

Q: What is the best food for senior dogs?

A: The best food for senior dogs is one that is specifically formulated for their age-related needs, such as joint support, digestive health, and lower calorie content to prevent weight gain. Consult with your vet for recommendations.

Q: Can I feed my dog homemade or holistic dog food?

A: Homemade or holistic dog food can be a viable option for some pet owners, but it is essential to ensure that the diet is nutritionally balanced, meets your dog’s requirements, and consult with a veterinarian or pet nutritionist to avoid deficiencies.

Conclusion

Your furry friend deserves the best, and with Premium Natural Dry Dog Food, you’re giving them top-notch nutrition that tastes great. It’s made right here in the USA and packs a 40-pound punch of chicken-flavored goodness for dogs of all sizes.

Don’t forget about IAMS Adult Minichunks either; it’s geared to keep your adult pooch healthy and strong. Grab these stellar options today – your dog will thank you with every wagging tail.

About the Author

Tanja lives in Norwich, UK, with her two young Labradors, Inka and Jetson. Both dogs are super active and love to fill up on tasty dinners to keep them fuelled up for their adventures. However, Inka has a grain allergy, so her diet has to be tailored appropriately.

Tanja is always on the lookout for tasty grain-free alternatives, while supporting her close-knit canine community with their dogs' diets and lifestyles, too.

Why Trust Us

Since 2008, DogTime has served as a leading resource for millions of dog owners and pet lovers alike. Our goal is to give every dog and pet a happy, healthy home by providing owners with all the information they need to be the best pet parents possible. Our experts share their insights and recommendations to make caring for your beloved pets a breeze.