Your pet is what it eats. And that means being especially conscientious about what it gets to tuck into at meal times. Doing so might just make all the difference between your furry charge getting to benefit from proper development as a mini-furball and enjoying excellent health as an older canine, and suffering from weaker muscles, lack of energy not to mention a weaker immune system, throughout its life.

The best dry dog food can play a key role in providing your pet with the nourishment it needs to stave off infections and joint problems, enabling it to live life to the fullest. It can also provide an extra dimension of convenience for you too, in terms of storage and even feeding your furry friend.

And in this guide, we shall be examining all those benefits in greater detail. We shall also present you with our list of the very best picks we’ve found to be especially irresistible.

When it comes to selecting the very best products for your pet, those which have the distinction of being vet-approved always seem like a wonderful place to begin.

And that’s why we did a double take when we first came across this offering by Hill’s Science Diet that promised to make all our dreams (and our pets’) come true.

We were really pleased to discover that this product had been made using completely natural products and was free of any artificial coloring, preservatives or flavors.

The fact that the manufacturer had also carefully selected each ingredient and also had them all put together by a team of veterinary and nutritional experts was also especially impressive.

Particularly since it meant the end result was a product which came packed with vitamins, antioxidants and prebiotics making Hill's Science’s Diet Dry Dog Food an excellent choice for bestowing your pet with a shinier coat, antioxidant protection and improved immunity — all while pleasing its palate.

Best of all, we also liked the fact that it was especially suited to pets with sensitive stomachs. Moreso since it meant that they too could get to enjoy tempting fare which was every bit as healthy and as tasty as the options their other furry counterparts got to settle down to at mealtimes.

With all these impressive qualities, there’s no doubt that Hill's Science’s Diet Dry Dog Food deserves a spot on that special list of all time greats which have what it takes to make your pet look amazing on the outside and feel wonderful on its inside too.

Key Features
  • A unique vet-approved formula
  • Prebiotics for improved digestion
  • Capable of improving pets’ coats
  • Suitable for pets with sensitive stomachs
Specifications
  • Main Ingredients: Chicken and Rice
  • Package Size: 30 lbs
  • Number of Flavors: 3 - Chicken and Rice, Chicken and Potato (Grain free), Variety
  • Brand: Hill’s Science
Pros
  • Ideal for pets with sensitive stomachs
  • Antioxidant protection thanks to the presence of vitamin E
  • Prebiotics for enhanced digestion
  • Omega-6 to improve luster and health of skin and coat
Cons
  • May be inconsistent in quality
  • May cause stomach trouble in pets

Relying on a manufacturer which prides itself on its ability to provide high quality fare means you can hardly go wrong.

And that’s what makes Blue Buffalo’s Life Protection Formula Natural Adult Dry Dog Food an excellent choice for meeting your pet’s nutritional needs.

There’s its high quality animal protein consisting of deboned chicken which at 24% is ideal for both puppies and adults.

There’s also a selection of vegetables including sweet potatoes, peas, carrots as well as tomatoes which are rich in vitamins and fiber.

And thanks to the presence of grains such as brown rice, barley and oatmeal, your pet will be able to enjoy even more fiber not to mention healthy carbohydrates as well.

And because the manufacturer believes in leaving no stone unturned when it comes to providing pets with the very best, it has also gone the extra mile to provide its very own special blend of antioxidants, vitamins and minerals. And it’s all been put together by canine healthcare and nutritional experts which means you can be certain it will boost your furry friend’s immune system as promised.

We meant what we said when we noted Blue Buffalo had left no stone unturned: the manufacturer has also added omega-3 and -6 fatty acids to this particular offering. These nutrients which are essential for brain development in puppies, are also anti-inflammatory and will provide your pet with a shiny, glossy coat too.

If you’d like a nutrient packed-option which will keep your pet looking and feeling amazing, Blue Buffalo’s Life Protection Formula Natural Adult Dry Dog Food might just be the best dry dog food option for you.

Key Features
  • Exclusive Lifesource Bits to boost your pet’s immune system
  • Omega-3 and -6 fatty acids for healthy joints and a gleaming coat
  • Free from meat by-products, artificial preservatives and coloring
  • A suitable high quality protein content (24 percent deboned chicken & chicken meal)
Specifications
  • Main Ingredients: Chicken & chicken meal
  • Package Size: 30 lbs
  • Number of Flavors: 3 - Chicken, Lamb and Fish
  • Brand: Blue Buffalo
Pros
  • A suitable protein content - 24 percent
  • High quality animal protein - chicken
  • Anti-inflammatory protection thanks to omega-3 and -6 fatty acids
  • Exclusive Lifesource Bits for immune system support
Cons
  • Exclusive LifeSource Bits for immune system support
  • Pets may refuse to eat it after a while

There aren’t that many options of dog food which provide you with the opportunity to give your resident canine the royal treatment on a regular basis.

But thanks to Iams’ Proactive Health Adult Minichunks Chicken, your pet might just get used to one of the very best dry dog food options available.

Brought to you by a manufacturer which has managed to stand out in a pretty competitive sector — always a sign of good tidings — this product has been made from carefully selected natural foods and also contains high quality protein thanks to the farm-raised chicken which is its main ingredient.

And because it also contains prebiotics and fiber, it’s also easy to digest meaning your pet will get to absorb the nutrients necessary for it to remain hale and hearty.

Iams, the manufacturer has also taken the extra precaution of adding L Carnitine and antioxidants to this product to help with your pet’s metabolism and provide support to its immune system as well.

And there’s no need to worry about any fillers, artificial preservatives or flavors which might spell unpleasant side effects for your pet - Iams’ Proactive Health Adult Minichunks Dry Dog Food Chicken is completely free of them.

What’s more, each mouthful will actually clean your pet’s teeth ensuring its dental health is taken care of while it also gets the nourishment it needs.

The fact that it’s vet-approved is hardly surprising and is also proof of how impressive this dry dog food product is, too. Especially since its extensive list of perks means it might just be deserving of a spot on your pet’s food shelf.

Key Features
  • A unique vet-approved formula
  • Ideal for combating plaque and bad breath
  • Contains farm-raised chicken as the main ingredient
  • Improved metabolism thanks to the presence of L Carnitine
  • Prebiotics and fiber for improved digestion
Specifications
  • Main Ingredients: Chicken
  • Package Size: 30 lbs
  • Number of Flavors: 1 - chicken
  • Brand: Iams
Pros
  • Capable of improving dental health by reducing plaque
  • Capable of improving digestion thanks to the presence of prebiotics and fiber
  • Capable of improving metabolism thanks to the presence of L Carnitine
  • Contains high quality protein (farm-reared chicken)
Cons
  • May cause vomiting in pets
  • May cause stomach upset in pets

Nothing says ‘I love you’ to your pet better than a hearty meaty diet which will not only cater to its taste buds but keep it in excellent health.

And thanks to Rachael Ray’s Nutrish Natural Premium Dry Dog Food, you might just be able to show your furry charge just how much it means to you every day.

And it’s pretty easy to see why your pet is likely to fall in love with it. After all, very few canines can resist the temptation offered by delicious high quality beef with a few other tasty extras added in.

Which is exactly what they will have to look forward to with this product which contains farm-raised beef as well as brown rice and peas.

And that means your pet will be able to anticipate thoroughly enjoyable mealtimes while also developing the muscle it needs to experience an improved quality of life.

Because Rachael Ray’s Nutrish Natural Premium Dry Dog Food also contains prebiotics and fiber and is packed with healthy carbs, your pet will also benefit from improved digestion and enjoy optimal energy levels, too.

And unlike other available options which feature artificial preservatives or coloring, this offering brought to you by one of the most loved celeb chefs on the globe is completely free of them.

There’s no need to worry about any meat by-products, fillers or wheat-containing ingredients either, since none of them make an appearance in this dry dog food product.

If you’ve been searching for a means of showering your favorite furball in the whole wide world with affection, this dog food option might be just what you need.

Key Features
  • High quality, real farm-reared beef
  • Contains fiber and minerals for healthy digestion
  • Completely free of wheat gluten
  • Free from any artificial preservatives or flavors
Specifications
  • Main Ingredients: Beef, Brown Rice and Peas
  • Package Size: 40 lbs
  • Number of Flavors: 2 - beef, brown rice and peas; turkey, brown rice and venison
  • Brand: Rachael Ray Nutrish
Pros
  • Contains high quality, farm-reared beef
  • An excellent source of high quality protein
  • An excellent source of fiber and minerals
  • Free from wheat gluten
  • Free from artificial flavors or preservatives
Cons
  • May be unsuitable for pets which are allergic to soy or corn
  • May cause stomach upset in pets

Meals filled with rich meaty goodness are a canine’s best friend. And when they come packed with high quality lean protein, and tempting fiber-rich extras, they’re simply second to none in terms of not just flavor, but nourishment as well.

No wonder few pets can resist the temptation that’s Blue Buffalo’s Wilderness High Protein Grain Free, Natural Adult Dry Dog Food.

Made with real chicken and consisting of a whopping 34 percent crude protein content, this offering has been specially made to encourage your pet to fully indulge its inner carnivore.

But because fiber and carbohydrates are also essential to providing your pet with a fully balanced diet, this dry dog food also contains sweet potatoes and peas which are excellent sources of both nutrients.

As a result, your furry charge will be able to look forward to healthy muscles as well as the high energy levels it needs to make the most of them.

It will also be able to enjoy a healthy, glossy coat, thanks to the presence of omega-3 and -6 fatty acids as well as robust, healthy bones due to the calcium and phosphorus contained in this product as well.
And in keeping with its dedication to ensuring your pet gets nothing but the very best, Blue Buffalo has also ensured this particular offering provides protection against joint problems - a very common concern for most dog owners everywhere.

In light of this rather impressive list of qualities, Blue Buffalo’s Wilderness High Protein Grain Free, Natural Adult Dry Dog Food does seem to have all it takes to keep your canine’s dreams of thoroughly unforgettable, meaty fare come true.

Key Features
  • An exceptionally high protein content (34 percent)
  • Manufactured using high quality protein (real chicken)
  • Contains glucosamine for healthy joints
  • Contains omega-3 and -6 fatty acids
  • Free from any artificial flavors, preservatives or meat by-products
Specifications
  • Main Ingredients: Chicken, Sweet Potatoes and Peas
  • Package Size: 24 lbs
  • Number of Flavors: 3 - chicken, duck, salmon
  • Brand: Blue Buffalo
Pros
  • Capable of providing healthy joints due to the presence of glucosamine
  • Capable of providing a shiny coat due to the presence of omega-3 and -6 acids
  • An impressive protein content (34 percent)
  • Free from any artificial flavors, preservatives or meat by-products
  • Free from wheat, corn or soy
Cons
  • May cause stomach upset in pets
  • May be inconsistent in quality

Small dogs are a precious category all their own and in addition to being impossibly cute and adorable, they also have very special requirements when it comes to the diet which is best for them.

And who better to provide just what they need than a manufacturer which knows all about nourishing pets with the right nutrients which will make them thrive and get to experience an improved quality of life?

With that in mind, we decided to check out Blue Buffalo’s Life Protection Formula Small Breed Dog Food specifically tailored for miniature canines the world over.

We were pretty thrilled to find that it contained high levels of protein and carbs since mini-furballs need to develop healthy muscle and enjoy optimal energy levels too.

We were also particularly pleased to note that this dry food product — just like all the other Blue Buffalo options we’d come across so far — also contained the vitamin and nutrient-packed LifeSource Bits capable of boosting pets’ immune systems and providing them with antioxidant protection.

And because those of us who are pet owners are all too aware of the risks posed by artificial coloring and preservatives as well as soy and grains, we were delighted to find Blue Buffalo’s Life Protection Formula Small Breed Dog Food was completely free of them.

Our verdict? This is one offering which is simply superb for tiny canines and capable of keeping them in excellent health while they do what they do best: look completely cute, cuddly and adorable.

Key Features
  • LifeSource Bits for immune system support and antioxidant protection
  • Omega-3 and 6 fatty acids for a healthy, sleek coat
  • Glucosamine for healthy joints
  • Free of any artificial preservatives, coloring, soy or grains
Specifications
  • Main Ingredients: Chicken and Brown Rice
  • Package Size: 15 lbs
  • Number of Flavors: 3 - Chicken and Brown Rice, Fish and Brown Rice, Lamb and Brown Rice
  • Brand: Blue Buffalo
Pros
  • Contains LifeSource Bits for immune system support and antioxidant protection
  • Contains omega-3 and 6 fatty acids for a healthy, sleek coat
  • Contains glucosamine for healthy joints
  • Free of any artificial preservatives, coloring, soy or grains
Cons
  • May have an unusual synthetic odor
  • May be inconsistent in quality

What’s the best option when you want filling nutritious fare which will be capable of providing your pet with all it needs while being easy to digest without the risk of any allergies?

The answer to that is a dry dog food with a limited number of high quality, carefully selected ingredients put together by a manufacturer which not only prides itself on attention to detail but transparency too.
And that’s what makes Natural Balance’s L.I.D. Limited Ingredient Diets Dry Dog Food a superb option in this regard.

Brought to you by a manufacturer which has a habit of thoroughly testing each product batch - nine times, no less! - with the help of qualified experts, and publishing the results on its website, this dry dog food also features a limited selection of ingredients which is essential for avoiding a large number of allergic reactions.

But what else can you expect from this particular offering which is part of a multi flavored selection?
There’s the fact that it’s made from salmon which is an excellent source of lean protein for dogs and is ideal for enabling them to develop healthy muscle while preventing them from piling on the pounds.

And because it’s rich in omega-3 and -6 fatty acids, it also comes with anti-inflammatory properties and will keep your pet’s skin supple and smooth while also providing it with a silky coat.

This product also contains sweet potatoes which are rich in fiber, vitamins and minerals.

As a result, your pet will get to enjoy healthier digestion as well as the energy it needs to run, play and live life to the fullest.
And there’s no need to worry about any artificial flavors or preservatives because this is one dry dog food product which is free of them.

If you feel it all sounds wonderful - just like we did - it’s likely that Natural Balance’s L.I.D. Limited Ingredient Diets Dry Dog Food might just find its way to the top of your list of very likely choices of the best dry dog food for your pet.

Key Features
  • A unique, thoroughly tested formula based on limited ingredients
  • An excellent source of high quality protein
  • An excellent source of fiber, vitamins and minerals
  • Free from artificial flavors and preservatives
Specifications
  • Main Ingredients: Sweet Potatoes and Salmon
  • Package Size: 26 lbs
  • Number of Flavors: 8 - Beef, Lamb, Chicken and Sweet Potato, Legume and Duck Meal, Potato and Duck, Sweet Potato and Bison, Sweet Potato and Venison, Sweet Potato and Fish
  • Brand: Natural Balance
Pros
  • Capable of providing your pet with a healthy skin and coat
  • Capable of improving your pet’s digestive health
  • Free from any artificial flavors or additives
  • Ideal for pets which are allergic to grains
Cons
  • Product may contain fish bones
  • The quality provided may be inconsistent

It’s filled with real farm-reared chicken, brown rice, carrots and peas and is every bit as tasty as it seems.

No wonder different breeds of pets simply cannot resist clearing their bowls at meal times when fed with Rachael Ray’s Nutrish Natural Premium Dry Dog Food.

What’s more, it’s also easy for your furry charge to digest, thanks to the presence of prebiotics. In addition to the lean protein, fiber and carbohydrates it contains, this dry dog food product is also packed with minerals and nutrients as well.

The presence of vitamins C and E, mean it’s capable of providing your pet with antioxidant and anti-inflammatory protection. This product also contains biotin, niacin, riboflavin as well as vitamin B12 which all form part of the vitamin B complex.
As a result, your pet will be able to look forward to improved metabolism as well as an immune system boost.
And thanks to the presence of vitamin D3, it will also get to make the best use of the calcium in its diet and enjoy healthy bones and muscles as a result.

However, it’s worth noting that this particular dry dog food option does contain soy and corn products which will make it unsuitable for your pet if it happens to be allergic to these ingredients.

That said, its simple wholesome ingredients as well as the vitamins it contains mean it’s a tasty, nutritious option if your pet isn’t affected by any such allergies making Rachael Rachael Ray’s Nutrish Natural Premium Dry Dog Food an ideal choice for keeping it happy and well-fed.

Key Features
  • A unique formula made with real chicken, brown rice and vegetables
  • Antioxidant and anti-inflammatory protection due to the presence of vitamins C and E
  • Ideal for the development of lean healthy muscle
  • An excellent source of healthy carbohydrates and fiber
Specifications
  • Main Ingredients: Chicken, brown rice, peas and carrots
  • Package Size: 40 lbs
  • Number of Flavors: 1 - Chicken
  • Brand: Rachael Ray Nutrish
Pros
  • An excellent source of lean protein
  • Manufactured using real farm-reared chicken
  • An excellent source of fiber and healthy carbohydrates
  • An excellent source of vitamins and minerals
Cons
  • May be unsuitable for pets which are allergic to soy or corn
  • May be inconsistent in quality

It's highly digestible, comes with a very special dual defense antioxidant blend and is also the perfect combination of crunchy kibble and nutritious, meaty chunks.
No wonder very few pets will be able to look up from a helping of such a delectable offering before completely clearing their bowls.

But Purina’s ONE SmartBlend Natural Adult Dry Dog Food is much more than a flavor-filled option with a few fancy healthy features thrown in.

This superb product brought to you by a leading pet food brand renowned for its ability to keep furballs all over the world happy, healthy and well-fed, also contains glucosamine to keep your pet’s joints healthy.

It’s also been made from real chicken as well as additional sources of protein to provide your pet with all the support it needs to create healthy, lean muscle and enjoy optimal cardiac health as well.

And there’s no need to worry about any unpleasant fillers which might cause any unpleasant effects once your pet has finished a satisfying meal since it simply doesn’t contain any.

If you’d love to provide your pet with dry dog food which it’ll not only love but which will also improve its quality of life, it’s rather likely that Purina’s SmartBlend Natural Adult Dry Dog Food might be the ideal choice for keeping your favorite canine extremely happy and satisfied.

Key Features
  • A highly digestible product with a special dual defense antioxidant blend
  • An ideal combination of meaty chunks and crunchy kibble
  • A high protein option consisting of chicken as well as additional options
  • Contains glucosamine for improved joint health
Specifications
  • Main Ingredients: Chicken and Rice
  • Package Size: 31.1 lbs
  • Number of Flavors: 4 - Small Breed - Lamb, Beef and Rice - Small Bites, Chicken and Rice, Lamb and Rice
  • Brand: Purina
Pros
  • A special dual defense antioxidant blend for extra protection
  • A highly digestible combination of meaty chunks and crunchy kibble
  • Contains glucosamine for improved joint health
  • Free from any fillers
Cons
  • May cause digestive problems in pets
  • May trigger allergies in pets

With so many brands and products all vying for a coveted spot in your pet’s food cupboard, only the truly spectacular deserve a chance at making it on to your list of all time favorites.

Like one which comes with an excellent helping of high quality animal protein - 26 percent, no less - while also promising to provide the entire range of your pet’s nutritional needs, including carbs and fats.

Just like Purina’s Pro Plan SAVOR Shredded Blend With Probiotics Adult Dry Dog Food. But perhaps the fact that it comes with this rather impressive list of qualities is hardly surprising since it’s been produced by a manufacturer which has become synonymous with tasty, healthy meals for pets.

And that means you can expect to be further impressed by this nutrient-rich option. It not only contains glucosamine which is important for healthy joints but also features a range of vitamins for antioxidant and anti-inflammatory protection, and improved immune function and metabolism.

Just as importantly, it also tastes great as well - which is good news since getting a pet to tuck into fare it considers less than palate-pleasing would certainly be quite an uphill task.

And best of all this offering which is pretty extraordinary as far as dog food options go and deserving of a spot on every special list, might just become a firm favorite for your pet.

Key Features
  • Contains 26 percent high quality animal protein (chicken)
  • Vitamins A, B, C and E for antioxidant and anti-inflammatory protection
  • Natural glucosamine for healthy joints
  • Probiotics for easy digestion
Specifications
  • Main Ingredients: Chicken and Rice
  • Package Size: 35 lbs
  • Number of Flavors: 4 - Beef & Rice , Chicken & Rice, Lamb & Rice and Salmon & Rice
  • Brand: Purina
Pros
  • Contains 26 percent high-quality animal protein (chicken)
  • Contains probiotics for easy digestion
  • Contains glucosamine for healthy joints
Cons
  • Delivered product may vary in quality
  • Certain batches may be difficult to store in the long term

Advantages of Dry Dog Food

If you happen to be a fan of the world’s most loved canine and also have one in your care, whether it's a new puppy, rescue dog, or long-time friend, you’re likely to have experienced that moment of indecision right there in the pet food aisle as you’ve wondered whether to select the succulent canned offerings on one side of it or the heartwarming, richly colored fare on the other.

So why should you opt for dry dog food since wet dog food is also capable of perfectly meeting your pet’s nutritional needs?

Below we’ve provided a few specific perks which come with getting the very best dry dog food for your pet and which might tip the scales in its favor during those moments at the store:

Improved dental health

Certain manufacturers of dry food provide offerings that are capable of improving your pet’s dentition. Such products often come with special supplements and an ability to eliminate buildup and stave off plaque, tartar, and stains as well.

Readily available training aids

There’s something about the promise of a delicious treat which simply encourages pets to be on their best behavior. Dry dog food which your resident furballs find especially delectable can serve as a tasty reward when training them not to leave telltale wet patches all over that brand new rug or chew on your entire footwear collection.

Extra convenience in terms of storage

High-quality dry dog food can be conveniently and safely stored in airtight containers making it easier for you to stave off mites which may cause health issues for your pet. Being able to store your pet’s food effectively will also ensure you have nourishing, tasty fare available in the event of an emergency.

The products we’ve selected tick all the right boxes in terms of high-quality protein and vitamin and mineral content.

They’re also free from artificial sweeteners, flavors, and preservatives and taste delectable to canine taste buds too.

All these superb qualities mean our list is an excellent place to start in your quest for the best dry dog food which will keep your pet nourished and satisfied.

Resources — American Kennel Club, Hills Pet, Pet MD, Purina

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