Best Dog Food With Grain

Dog Food With Grain

Dog food with grain is a controversial topic in the dog world. You’ll find a lot of disagreement about whether dogs should eat grain or not. Some people believe that dogs are carnivores and should eat only meat, while others think that some grains can be beneficial for your dog’s health. We’ll look at both sides of this issue and discuss how you can make an informed decision about whether or not your dog should be eating grain.

The Pros of Feeding Your Dog Grain

Some vets and pet experts believe that there are benefits to feeding dogs grain as part of their regular diet. For example, some people believe that grain can help to keep your dog’s digestive system healthy and free from irritation or inflammation. They also say that grain can help make your pup feel fuller faster, which may reduce his risk of overeating or gaining weight too quickly (1). If you’re worried about your dog being overweight or having digestive issues due to eating too fast or too much, then adding grain into his diet could be beneficial for him!

Another reason why some vets recommend grain-based foods is because they contain fewer calories than other types of food (2). This means that if you’re worried about keeping your

Dog Food With Grain

Due to the recent controversy over grain-free diets, many dog owners are today looking for the best dog foods that contain grain.

But not all grain-inclusive dog foods are created equal.

So, The Dog Food Advisor compiled a list of our most recommended brands that contain grain.

All the top picks below were selected because their recipes feature…

• Above-average meat content
• Limited plant-based protein
• Safe fat-to-protein ratios
• No toxic preservatives
• Moderate carb levels
• No anonymous meat

And they’re made by companies that meet The Advisor’s 9 guidelines for finding superior brands.

Best Dog Food with Grain May 2022

Here are The Dog Food Advisor’s best grain-inclusive brands for May 2022.

Wellness Complete Health Dog Food

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Wellness Complete Health Adult Lamb and Rice is one of 13 dry recipes included in our review of the Wellness Complete Health product line.

• First 5 ingredients: Lamb, lamb meal, oatmeal, ground barley, menhaden fish meal
• Type: With grain (oatmeal, barley, rice)
• Other recipes: Puppy, senior, small breed, large breed, toy breed, turkey, whitefish and more
• Price: $$
• See all 13 available recipes

This Wellness Complete Health adult formula derives the bulk of its animal protein from lamb and lamb meal. Dry matter label analysis reveals the recipe contains 27% protein, 13% fat and 52% estimated carbs… with a fat-to-protein ratio of about 50%.

A fully-balanced, grain-inclusive dog food. Highly recommended.

Sample buyer review… “So far so good, as both of my dogs love their new Wellness Complete Health Lamb & Barley. They have been on Wellness Original Grain Free for many years, but because of the recent scare on grain free food, I decided to change. So glad I did because their stools are firmer and both my rescued 12 yr old German Shepard/Malmute & 8 yr old Schipperke are very happy and energetic.”

Purina Pro Plan Focus Dry Dog Food

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Purina Pro Plan Focus Adult Large Breed is one of 19 dry recipes included in our review of the Purina Pro Plan Focus product line.

• First 5 ingredients: Chicken, brewers rice, whole grain wheat, corn gluten meal, whole grain corn
• Type: With grain (rice, wheat, corn, barley)
• Other recipes: Puppy, sensitive stomach, weight management, small breed, giant breed, toy breed, senior and more
• Price: $
• See all 19 available recipes

Purina Focus Adult Large Breed derives the largest share of its animal protein from fresh chicken. Dry matter label analysis reveals the recipe contains 30% protein, 14% fat and 49% estimated carbs… resulting in a fat-to-protein ratio of about 46%.

A top-rated, grain-inclusive dog food formulated by a team of professional, board-certified veterinary nutritionists. Highly recommended.

Sample buyer review… “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!”

Ollie Fresh Dog Food

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Lamb is one of 4 fresh human-grade recipes included in our review of the Ollie Dog Food product line.

• First 5 ingredients: Lamb, butternut squash, lamb liver, kale, rice
• Type: With grain (rice)
• Other recipes: Turkey, chicken, and beef
• Price: $$$
• See all 4 available recipes

This Ollie formula derives the bulk of its animal protein from fresh lamb. Dry matter label analysis reveals the recipe contains 38% protein, 27% fat and 27% estimated carbs… with a fat-to-protein ratio of about 70%.

If you’ve ever wished there was a way you could serve your pup a fresh, home-cooked meal… without all the fuss and hard work… then Ollie may be the ideal choice.

Ollie is an exceptional dog food that’s made with real, human-grade ingredients. It’s designed by a board-certified veterinary nutritionist (DACVN)… all making it worthy of its higher price.

A top, grain-inclusive option. Recommended with confidence.

Sample buyer review… “Leia has a sensitive tummy and used to not eat (or throw up) her dry kibble. She literally jumps for joy when we pull Ollie out of the fridge. What a huge difference Ollie has made in our dog’s life.”

Dr. Tim’s Dog Food

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Dr. Tim’s Active Dog Pursuit Formula is one of 8 dry recipes included in our review of the Dr. Tim’s product line.

• First 5 ingredients: Chicken meal, brown rice, chicken fat, whole oat groats, dried beet pulp
• Type: With grain (rice, oats)
• Other recipes: Weight management, grain-free, athletic, fish formula and more
• Price: $$
• See all 8 available recipes

Dr. Tim’s Active Dog Pursuit derives the lion’s share of its animal protein from chicken meal. Dry matter label analysis reveals the recipe contains 33% protein, 22% fat and 36% estimated carbs… which results in a fat-to-protein ratio of about 67%.

A top option for active dogs and sporting breeds. Highly recommended.

Sample buyer review… “This food is really good for dogs. It is made by a veterinarian that is experienced in dog sports. It is great quality and my dog loves it as well (and he is picky). Good protein and fat levels for dogs that are more active compared to many foods on the market and the ingredients are really awesome too! So glad I made this purchase. Also, if you need to ask a question, Dr. Tim will often answer your personally, which is fantastic!”

Canidae All Life Stages Dog Food

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Canidae All Life Stages Chicken Meal and Rice is one of 5 dry recipes included in our review of the Canidae All Life Stages product line.

• First 5 ingredients: Chicken meal, brown rice, white rice, rice bran, cracked pearled barley
• Type: With grain (rice, barley, millet)
• Other recipes: Multi protein, lamb formula, large breed, less active recipe and more
• Price: $
• See all 5 available recipes

This Canidae All Life Stages dog food derives largest portion of its animal protein from chicken meal. Dry matter label analysis reveals the recipe contains 29% protein, 17% fat and 46% estimated carbs… which creates a fat-to-protein ratio of about 60%.

A fully-balanced, budget-friendly option. Ideal for dogs of differing ages and breed types. Highly recommended.

Sample buyer review… “I’m fanatical about the health of my animals. I research the food my dogs eat every 3 months for recalls and health issues. I also will not buy dog food if the ingredients are sourced from China. Through recent research, my other dog food was found to be causing congestive heart failure. I recently changed my dogs to this food and they are thriving with no issues.”

Annamaet Dog Food

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Annamaet Original Extra is one of 8 dry recipes included in our review of the Annamaet product line.

• First 5 ingredients: Chicken meal, brown rice, sorghum, chicken fat, rolled oats
• Type: With grain (rice, sorghum, oats)
• Other recipes: Reduced fat, grain-free, puppy, senior, small breed and more
• Price: $$
• See all 8 available recipes

This Annamaet Original formula delivers the majority of its meat protein from chicken meal. Dry matter label analysis reveals the recipe contains 29% protein, 18% fat and 34% estimated carbs… creating a fat-to-protein ratio of about 63%.

A five-star, grain-inclusive recipe with containing a generous amount of meat protein. Highly recommended.

Sample buyer review… “This is my favorite food. The calcium level is appropriate for raising puppies of my large breed, it feeds our active adults who are running in competition, our pregnant and lactation ladies, and we reduce the quantity to feed to retired older dogs. We’ve been feeding a large number of dogs for well over 40 years, so have a lot of experience. In our experience, Annamaet Extra is the best food we’ve found.”

Iams ProActive Health Dog Food

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Iams Proactive Health Lamb and Rice is one of 12 dry recipes included in our review of the Iams ProActive Health product line.

• First 5 ingredients: Lamb, chicken by-product meal, brewers rice, ground whole grain barley, ground whole grain corn
• Type: With grain (rice, barley, corn, sorghum)
• Other recipes: Large breed, puppy, mature adult, healthy weight, small breed and more
• Price: $
• See all 12 available recipes

This Iams ProActive Health recipe derives the largest portion of its meat protein from both fresh lamb and chicken by-product meal. Dry matter label analysis reveals the recipe contains 28% protein, 16% fat and 49% estimated carbs… which produces a fat-to-protein ratio of about 56%.

A solid choice for those looking for a time-proven, grain-inclusive brand with multiple flavor and formula options. Frequently mentioned by veterinarians and professional breeders.

Highly recommended.

Sample buyer review… “Delivered just as running out of smaller Iams trial bag. Both pups switched to Iams effortlessly and I noticed my golden retriever’s skin and coat issues are already looking much better. Great price on the 26 lb. bag, too. I am happy when pups are happy.”

Farmina N&D Ancestral Grain

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Farmina N&D Adult Medium and Maxi is one of 13 dry recipes included in our review of the Farmina N&D Ancestral Grain product line.

• First 5 ingredients: Chicken, dehydrated chicken, whole spelt, whole oats, chicken fat,
• Type: With grain (spelt, oats)
• Other recipes: Lamb formula, fish recipe, puppy, mini breed, senior and more
• Price: $$
• See all 13 available recipes

This particular Farmina N&D formula derives the bulk of its meat protein from both fresh chicken and dehydrated chicken. Dry matter label analysis reveals the recipe contains 33% protein, 20% fat and 39% estimated carbs… producing a fat-to-protein ratio of about 60%.

Containing better quality, GMO-free ingredients… and meriting its slightly higher price. Recommended with confidence.

Sample buyer review… “I have a senior corgi with a very sensitive stomach. He was eating a very high quality grain free (which is what he needs) but after the scare with grain free foods I had been unsuccessful finding an alternative that did not upset his stomach. My doggy day care sent me home with some samples of this product. It has been a lifesaver. It has been two weeks since I finished transitioning him 100% to Farmina. No upset tummy and he is doing so well.”

Blue Buffalo Life Protection

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Blue Buffalo Small Breed Adult is one of 21 dry recipes included in our review of the Blue Buffalo Life Protection product line.

• First 5 ingredients: Deboned chicken, chicken meal, brown rice, oatmeal, barley
• Type: With grain (rice, oatmeal, barley)
• Other recipes: Puppy, healthy weight, toy breed, large breed, fish recipe and more
• Price: $$
• See all 21 available recipes

This Blue Buffalo Life Protection formula gets the bulk of its animal protein from both fresh chicken and chicken meal. Dry matter label analysis reveals the recipe contains 29% protein, 17% fat and 46% estimated carbs… with a fat-to-protein ratio of about 58%.

A reasonably priced, grain-inclusive kibble, available in multiple flavor options… perfect for rotational feeding. Highly recommended.

Sample buyer review… “It is really nice to see the popularity of this food grow. To me, it seems a heightening of general awareness and concern regarding dog nutrition. I like that the grains in this are brown rice and oats as they seem to be most digestible. What I am also keen on is the fish meal and supplemental super foods. This particular formula was instrumental, in part, to my continuing exploration of dog foods. When I saw it shelved at a local grocery near inferior foods I was encouraged that more dogs may be living better.”

Nature’s Logic Dry Dog Food

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Nature’s Logic Chicken Meal Feast is one of 9 dry recipes included in our review of the Nature’s Logic product line.

• First 5 ingredients: Chicken meal, millet, chicken fat, pumpkin seed, yeast culture
• Type: With grain (millet)
• Other recipes: Rabbit meal formula, beef meal recipe, duck and salmon meal, pork meal, and more flavors
• Price: $$$
• See all 9 available recipes

This Nature’s Logic formula derives the greatest share of its meat protein from chicken meal. Dry matter label analysis reveals the recipe contains 40% protein, 17% fat and 36% estimated carbs… resulting in a fat-to-protein ratio of about 42%.

Nature’s Logic is one of only a handful of brands that meets AAFCO nutrient guidelines using actual feeding trials. Not only is it made with grain, but it’s also free of legume-heavy ingredients.

Highly recommended.

Sample buyer review… “We’ve been feeding Nature’s Logic for about eight months now. The high protein content coupled with no legumes or potatoes won me over. After obsessive (I mean, extensive) research following the DCM scare, I chose Nature’s Logic as the best kibble option for Carlo. Because it’s so nutrient-dense, he gets about 2/3 cup every meal. One bag lasts approximately 11-12 weeks, which works out to roughly $6 per week. You can’t put a price on your dog’s health but if you had to, how can you beat that?”

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Nutro Ultra Dry Dog Food

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Nutro Ultra Small Breed Adult is an example of one of the 9 dry recipes included in our review of the Nutro Ultra product line.

• First 5 ingredients: Chicken, chicken meal, whole grain sorghum, whole grain oats, whole grain brown rice
• Type: With grain (sorghum, oats, brown rice)
• Other recipes: Large breed, puppy, weight management, senior and more
• Price: $$
• See all 9 available recipes

Nutro Ultra Small Breed Adult derives the lion’s share of its meat protein from both fresh chicken and chicken meal. Dry matter label analysis reveals the recipe contains 29% protein, 19% fat and 44% estimated carbs… producing a fat-to-protein ratio of about 65%.

A reasonably priced, nutritionally-balanced containing a healthy mix of healthy cereal grains. Highly recommended.

Sample buyer review… “We have three Maltese mix dogs ranging from 5 years to 7 months. Our 5 year old was starting to gain weight and moving slow like he was stiff and sore on the food we were using (Natures Recipe). After doing some research we came across the Nutro Ultra. We have used the Nutro hard dog treats for years and the dogs love them so we decided to give the food a try. The dogs love it and our oldest has started to slim down and be more active. No fillers and a great mix of meat and veggies. Enough calories and protein for small dogs without loading them down with a bunch of junk.”

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Diamond Naturals Dry Dog Food

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Diamond Naturals Adult Beef Meal and Rice is just one of 13 dry recipes included in our review of the Diamond Naturals product line.

• First 5 ingredients: Beef meal, grain sorghum, ground white rice, dried yeast, egg product
• Type: With grain (sorghum, rice, barley)
• Other recipes: Senior, large breed, small breed, puppy,
• Price: $
• See all 13 available recipes

This Diamond Naturals formula gets the bulk of its animal protein from beef meal. Dry matter label analysis reveals the recipe contains 28% protein, 17% fat and 48% estimated carbs… which produces a fat-to-protein ratio of about 60%.

A recent addition to our Best Budget-Friendly Dog Food list, this balanced, grain-inclusive design makes a top choice for those seeking exceptional value. Highly recommended.

Sample buyer review… “I recently transitioned my dog from the Diamond Naturals Puppy formula to the Adult food and have no complaints. He did not seem put off by it and eats it just as well as his puppy food. I did pick the same “flavor”, Lamb & Rice, so that may have helped him transition. He hasn’t experienced any type of upset stomach during his transition. Wonderful, high quality dog food at a great price! My dog’s coat is shiny and healthy, and he always gets a clean bill of health from my vet. I don’t feed any supplements, it’s all his dry food.”

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Merrick Classic Dry Dog Food

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Merrick Classic Healthy Grains Real Beef and Brown Rice is one of 13 dry recipes included in our review of the Merrick Classic product line.

• First 5 ingredients: Deboned beef, pork meal, brown rice, barley, oatmeal
• Type: With grain (rice, barley, oatmeal, quinoa)
• Other recipes: Chicken formula, lamb recipe, puppy, small breed, grain-free and more
• Price: $$
• See all 13 available recipes

This Merrick Classic formula derives the major share of its animal protein from both fresh beef and pork meal. Dry matter label analysis reveals the recipe contains 29% protein, 17% fat and 46% estimated carbs… producing a fat-to-protein ratio of about 58%.

As its name implies, this recipe is an excellent example of Merrick’s time-proven, “classic” designs… rich in meat and low in plant-based protein substitutes.

A nutritious, grain-inclusive kibble. Highly recommended.

Sample buyer review… “I spent days researching food for my dog. He is allergic to chicken and turkey and his stomach is so so sensitive. I’ve experienced with many food brands and they didnt work. This has worked wonders for him! He doesnt have rash or upset stomachs anymore. He loves the flavor! This lasts us way longer than other foods we have bought in the past. It’s high quality and works for our little sensitive pup.”

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Eagle Pack Dog Food

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Eagle Pack Original Chicken Meal and Pork Meal is one of 7 dry recipes included in our review of the Eagle Pack product line.

• First 5 ingredients: Chicken meal, pork meal, ground brown rice, dehulled barley, oatmeal
• Type: With grain (rice, barley, oatmeal)
• Other recipes: Lamb formula, large breed, puppy, reduced fat, small breed and more
• Price: $

This Eagle Pack formula derives the bulk of its meat protein from both chicken meal and pork meal. Dry matter label analysis reveals the recipe contains 29% protein, 16% fat and 48% estimated carbs… creating a fat-to-protein ratio of about 54%.

Another quality, budget-friendly option from the maker of Wellness. Highly recommended… especially when you consider value.

Sample buyer review… “My Shih-tzu suffered horribly with skin issues, losing most of the hair on her tail. Eagle Pack was recommended to me and I gave it a try. In just 2 weeks I saw exceptional improvement in her skin and the hair on her tail was beginning to grow back. All four of my Shih-tzus love it, especially the small size.”

Taste of the Wild Ancient Grains Dog Food

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Taste of the Wild Ancient Wetlands with Ancient Grains is one of 4 dry recipes included in our review of the Taste of the Wild Ancient Grains product line.

• First 5 ingredients: Duck, duck meal, chicken meal, grain sorghum, millet
• Type: With grain (sorghum, millet, barley, quinoa)
• Other recipes: Bison formula, fish recipe, lamb, and more
• Price: $$

Taste of the Wild Wetlands derives the majority of its animal protein from fresh duck and both duck and chicken meals. 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%.

A new, grain-inclusive product line from one of the industry’s most popular brands. Highly recommended.

Sample buyer review… “I have a Border Collie who grazed on the lawn for the past 8 years because we believed the hype that Grain Free was best. Due to several allergies and the information that some animals need grains, we tried Taste of The Wild Ancient Prairie with Ancient Grains. She stopped grazing the lawn and her allergic reactions ceased. She also no longer wipes her butt on my carpet because her stool consistency has improved. I would highly recommend this food for any canine owner. I’m just sorry it took us so long to wise up. With the overall improvement in her health, we will continue to feed this food and will probably offer it to any future pets.”

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Victor Purpose Dog Food

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Victor Purpose Nutra Pro Active Dog and Puppy is one of 6 grain-inclusive recipes included in our review of the Victor Purpose product line.

• First 5 ingredients: Chicken meal, blood meal, whole grain millet, chicken fat, yeast culture
• Type: With grain (millet, sorghum)
• Other recipes: Senior, healthy weight, grain-free, sport dog, and more
• Price: $

Victor Nutra Pro derives the greater share of its animal protein from both chicken and blood meals. Dry matter label analysis reveals the recipe contains 42% protein, 20% fat and 31% estimated carbs… producing a fat-to-protein ratio of about 47%.

A budget-friendly, grain-inclusive option. Ideal for dogs of all ages and breed sizes. Highly recommended.

Sample buyer review… “I have five furry friends that LOVE this food! Three Australian Shepherds, a dachshund and a Golden Retriever. We breed Aussies we love this kibble for our females and pups it has all goods that my females need to strive at all stages. My golden has digestive issues and she does tremendous with this food. We are very pleased! Thank you Victor!”

Whole Earth Farms Dog Food

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Whole Earth Farms Adult Recipe is one of 6 dry recipes included in our review of the Whole Earth Farms product line.

• First 5 ingredients: Chicken, chicken meal, rice, barley, pork meal
• Type: With grain (rice, barley)
• Other recipes: Puppy recipe, grain-free, wet formulas and more
• Price: $

This Whole Earth Farms selection derives most of its meat protein from both fresh chicken and chicken meal. Dry matter label analysis reveals the recipe contains 28% protein, 16% fat and 48% estimated carbs… producing a fat-to-protein ratio of about 56%.

An affordable option from the maker of Merrick. Highly recommended.

Sample buyer review… “Like a few other reviews here, this was one of the best dog foods I could find for my dog. It isn’t filled with unhealthy fillers that many other dog foods are, and it doesn’t have peas or lentils in it which are some of the main ingredients linked to heart disease in grain-free foods. My dog loves this, and I love it!”

grain free dog food The best grain-free dog foods typically contain more protein than those made with grain.But many are made with grain-substitutes that can upset the nutrient balance of the finished food. That’s because the 2 most common ingredients used to replace the corn, rice and other cereal grains found in other dog foods include…

• Potatoes
• Legumes (peas, chickpeas, lentils, soybeans, etc.)

Although both are suitable grain substitutes… legumes are also rich in protein… which is a good thing.

Yet unlike meat-based protein… plant protein can be deficient in certain essential amino acids.

Which is why we recommend the 10 grain-free foods below… where meat remains the dominant source of protein… in each formula.

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The Best Grain-Free Dog Food
for May 2022

Here are The Dog Food Advisor’s top 10 best grain-free dog food brands for May 2022:

Wellness Core Grain-Free Kibble

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Wellness Core Ocean Formula is one of 12 dry recipes included in our review of the Wellness Core product line.

• First 5 ingredients: Whitefish, herring meal, salmon meal, menhaden fish meal, peas
• Other recipes: Adult, weight loss, small breed, large breed, puppy, large breed puppy, senior
• Price: $$

This Wellness formula derives most of its meat protein from fish and fish meal. Our dry matter label analysis reveals the recipe contains 38% protein, 17% fat and 38% estimated carbs… producing a fat-to-protein ratio of about 44%.

An exceptional protein-rich option.

Sample buyer review… “My dog absolutely loves this food! She’s not really a fussy eater, and she’s never “rushed” to eat her food, but from the moment I put this food in her bowl, she started eating it right away! She seems very excited at meal time! I think I’ve found her “furever” food!”

American Journey Grain-Free

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American Journey Beef and Sweet Potato is one of 17 dry recipes included in our review of the American Journey product line.

• First 5 ingredients: Deboned beef, chicken meal, turkey meal, peas, chickpeas
• Other recipes: Puppy, large breed, senior, healthy weight
• Price: $$

This American Journey formula derives most of its meat protein from beef and chicken and turkey meal. Our dry matter label analysis reveals the recipe contains 36% protein, 16% fat and 41% estimated carbs… producing a fat-to-protein ratio of about 44%.

We also note the inclusion of salmon oil, which is rich in healthy, omega-3 fatty acids. The formula also contains both “pre” and probiotics to support optimal digestion. Highly recommended, especially when you consider the budget pricing.

Sample buyer review… “This is my go to dry food. I have a very picky dog. When we first adopted him he would not eat anything. He went for 2 days and did not eat anything! A friend recommended this and he ate a little bit. Over the next week he ate a little more each day. Now it is his daily food and I use other American Journey flavors and mix the two every now and then just for variety.”

Taste of the Wild Grain-Free Dog Food

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Taste of the Wild High Prairie is one of 9 dry recipes included in our review of the Taste of the Wild product line.

• First 5 ingredients: Buffalo, lamb meal, chicken meal, sweet potatoes, peas
• Other recipes: Puppy, adult, small breed, and more
• Price: $
• See all 9 available recipes

Taste of the Wild High Prairie derives most of its meat protein from buffalo, lamb meal and chicken meal. Our dry matter label analysis reveals the recipe contains 36% protein, 20% fat and 36% estimated carbs… resulting in a fat-to-protein ratio of about 56%.

A superior choice for your dog. Heartily recommended.

Sample buyer review… “My fur babies love it, I bought the bag before I finished off their other food and they would inspect the bag. As soon as I cut it open and fed them, they won’t touch their other food. They know which is which and they prefer Taste of the Wild over all their food. Glad they’re happy.”

Orijen Grain-Free Dry Dog Food

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Orijen Six Fish is one of 9 dry recipes included in our review of the Orijen product line.

• First 5 ingredients: Whole Atlantic mackerel, whole Atlantic herring, monkfish, Acadian redfish, flounder
• Other recipes: Large breed puppy, adult, senior, puppy, weight loss
• Price: $$$

Orijen Six Fish derives the bulk of its animal protein from whole Atlantic mackerel and herring, as well as monkfish and redfish. Our dry matter label analysis reveals the recipe contains 43% protein, 21% fat and 28% estimated carbs… creating a fat-to-protein ratio of about 47%.

A solid grain-free product line. Enthusiastically recommended.

Sample buyer review… “I have always fed my German Shepherds Orijen, so when my boyfriend and I got an 11mo German Shepherd I went straight for this food again. It is the best food on the market! My dogs have always had wonderful coats and teeth with this food. The 6 fish even helps with the shedding. Our dog is protection trained and is in training for competitions so he need a high protein food to keep up with him and this brand does the trick. I love this food!!”

Instinct Raw Boost Grain-Free Dry

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Instinct Raw Boost with Real Duck is one of 14 dry recipes included in our review of the Instinct Raw Boost product line.

• First 5 ingredients: Duck, chicken meal, peas, egg product, turkey meal
• Other recipes: Adult, weight loss, puppy, skin and coat, large breed puppy, small breed, senior
• Price: $$$

This Instinct recipe derives the bulk of its meat protein from fresh duck and chicken meal. Our dry matter label analysis reveals the recipe contains 38% protein, 23% fat and 31% estimated carbs… resulting in a fat-to-protein ratio of about 61%.

A protein-rich recipe. Confidently recommended.

Sample buyer review… “This was a first for me in ordering this product, but WOW, I am glad that I did. My Chow Chow is a picky eater, so I was a bit skeptical about whether or not she would eat it; but it turns out that she LOVES the stuff, and she loves taking out the small raw pieces, and eating them as if they were a treat! I am pleased with this purchase, because it is nutritious for my pet, and she loves it!”

Dr. Tim’s Grain-Free Dog Food

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Dr. Tim’s Salmon and Pork RPM is one of 3 dry recipes included in our review of the Dr. Tim’s product line.

• First 5 ingredients: Salmon meal, pork meal, dried white potatoes, dried field peas, tapioca
• Other recipes: Several grain-inclusive formulas
• Price: $$
• See all 3 available recipes

Dr. Tim’s Salmon and Pork RPM derives the majority of its animal protein from salmon and pork meals. Our dry matter label analysis reveals the recipe contains 36% protein, 20% fat and 36% estimated carbs… which yields a fat-to-protein ratio of about 56%.

A quality, grain-free brand. Readily recommended.

Sample buyer review… “We have tried everything on the market. Our oldest female had really awful skin allergies. Then we were talking to a friend of our’s that recommended this food to us. We researched it and found out it would be great for our girl and her skin allergies PLUS we have sporting retrievers that needed a good food for the protein/energy and carbs. This food has been wonderful for it all. We have raised several young dogs on this food and they did really well on it too. I cannot say enough good things about this food and what it has done for our dogs. We have 4 Labradors, an Aussie, and a small rescue dog. They all love this food! Thank you Dr. Tim’s!”

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Canidae Grain-Free Pure

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Canidae Grain-Free Pure Real Lamb and Pea Recipe is one of 10 dry recipes included in our review of the Canidae Pure product line.

• First 5 ingredients: Lamb, turkey meal, chicken meal, sweet potatoes, garbanzo beans
• Other recipes: Adult, puppy, weight loss, senior
• Price: $$

Canidae Pure Real Lamb and Pea Recipe derives the majority of its animal protein from lamb and poultry meal. 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%.

A superb selection free of grains.

Sample buyer review… “My dog has always been a picky eater even when she was little. Because of that, she wasn’t in her proper weight category for her age and breed. I decided to make a switch to a higher quality brand of dog food than what I was feeding. This specific dog food ranks 4.5 / 5 on a popular dog food rating site. It has really good ingredients and actually costs less than most other dog food brand with the same ones. My dog absolutely loves this food. I have never seen her more excited to eat (other than for cheese or boiled chicken).”

Farmina N&D Grain-Free Dry Dog Food

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Adult Fish Medium Dog Formula is one of 8 dry recipes included in our review of the Farmina N&D Grain-Free product line.

• First 5 ingredients: Herring, dehydrated herring, sweet potatoes, herring oil, dried whole eggs
• Other recipes: Adult, small breed, large breed, puppy
• Price: $$$

This Farmina recipe derives the greatest portion of its meat protein from fresh and dehydrated herring. Our dry matter label analysis reveals the recipe contains 41% protein, 20% fat and 32% estimated carbs… producing a fat-to-protein ratio of about 49%.

Omega-3 herring oil for healthy skin and free of all pea protein concentrates. An excellent grain-free selection.

Sample buyer review… “I had never heard of Farmina until getting my newest puppy and the breeder suggesting it as what he fed. This stuff is amazing! It smells good enough that my 10-year-old daughter wanted to know if it was for us instead of the puppy. And baby Malachite thinks it’s yummy, happily eating it up with a dollop of yogurt. His eyes are bright and his coat fluffy soft and the ingredient list is exactly what I want in terms of healthy, clean food. Can’t wait to watch him grow!”

Ollie Fresh Grain-Free Turkey Recipe

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Ollie Fresh Turkey is one of 4 wet recipes included in our review of the Ollie product line.

• First 5 ingredients: Turkey thigh, pumpkin, turkey liver, turkey heart, carrot
• Other recipes: Beef, chicken, lamb
• Price: $$$

This Ollie formula derives the bulk of its animal protein from fresh turkey and turkey organ meat. Our dry matter label analysis reveals the recipe contains 39% protein, 25% fat and 28% estimated carbs… producing a fat-to-protein ratio of about 64%.

The company designs each custom feeding plan based on your dog’s age, weight, activity level and other feeding factors… and then recommends a measured portion size, based on the number of calories needed to keep your dog at ideal weight.

The fresh, customized diet is delivered to you on a flexible schedule. It should be stored in your freezer… and then thawed (as needed) in your refrigerator.

An exceptional, grain-free option… ideal for those who want to feed a scientifically balanced diet that’s as close to homemade as you can get… yet without all the tedious work. Not cheap. Highly recommended.

Sample buyer review… “Our 10 year old GSD had skin issues & was refusing to eat his dry food. We made the switch to Ollie & the changes have been amazing. Dexter is no longer scratching all the time and he looks forward to his breakfast & dinner every day. He’s also perkier and runs around like a puppy. We are so happy with Ollie!!”

Merrick Grain-Free Dry Dog Food

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Merrick Grain-Free Real Salmon with Sweet Potato is one of 12 dry recipes included in our review of the Merrick Grain-Free product line.

• First 5 ingredients: Deboned salmon, salmon meal, whitefish meal, sweet potatoes, potatoes
• Other recipes: Puppy, adult, weight loss, senior
• Price: $$

Merrick Grain-Free Real Salmon with Sweet Potato derives the bulk of its animal protein from salmon and salmon meal. Our dry matter label analysis reveals the recipe contains 36% protein, 16% fat and 40% estimated carbs… creating a fat-to-protein ratio of about 44%.

A great option with multiple formulas. A top grain-free pick.

Sample buyer review… “My Goldendoodle wasn’t really eating his other new food that I transitioned him to from puppy to adult … read great things about Merrick and gave it a shot. My pup loves it and eats it all.”

More Grain-Free Recommendations

Nulo Freestyle Grain-Free Dog Food

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Nulo Freestyle Adult Salmon and Peas is one of 9 dry recipes included in our review of the Nulo Freestyle product line.

• First 5 ingredients: Deboned salmon, turkey meal, menhaden fish meal, whole peas, sweet potato
• Other recipes: Puppy, small breed, adult, senior and others
• Price: $$$

Nulo Freestyle Adult Salmon and Peas derives the bulk of its meat protein from salmon, turkey meal and menhaden fish meal. Our dry matter label analysis reveals the recipe contains 33% protein, 18% fat and 41% estimated carbs… yielding a fat-to-protein ratio of about 53%.

Enthusiastically recommended.

Sample buyer review… “I’m a big fan of Nulo food for my four babies. Compared to other foods in the same price range it rates high. It’s nevef had a recall and it’s an award winning food. My babies love it. The kibble is small for their small mouths and they clean up every bite. No grains and all wholesome ingredients make this a winner…”

Weruva Grain-Free Canned Dog Foo

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Weruva Funky Chunky Chicken Grain and Gluten-Free is one of 14 wet recipes included in our review of the Weruva product line.

• First 5 ingredients: Chicken, chicken broth, pumpkin, carrot, green pea
• Other recipes: Several different meat sources
• Price: $$$