Choosing the right food for your dog can feel like a challenge when store shelves are filled with so many options. Some brands use quality proteins, natural ingredients, and careful sourcing, while others rely on fillers, artificial colors, and cheap additives. The food you pick matters because nutrition plays a major role in your dog’s health, energy, and even life span. To make the decision easier, here are 15 dog food brands you should avoid and 15 trusted brands that support canine wellness.
15 Dog Food Brands to Skip
Not all dog food is created with pets’ health in mind. Some companies rely on low-cost fillers, artificial flavors, and questionable proteins to cut costs. While these foods may fill your dog’s bowl, they do not provide the balanced nutrition that supports long-term health. Many of these options also use synthetic additives or preservatives that can trigger allergies and digestive problems. Avoiding these brands can help you reduce the risk of chronic health issues and give your pet a better quality of life.
Ol’ Roy
Ol’ Roy is one of the cheapest dog food brands sold in large retailers, but its low price comes with a cost to nutrition. The recipes are heavy on corn, soy, and by-products, which do not provide the same quality of protein as whole meat. This can result in weaker muscle support and poor energy levels for dogs. Artificial colors and preservatives are also often used, which add no value to health. Over time, these ingredients may contribute to allergies and digestive upset.
Kibbles ‘n Bits
Kibbles ‘n Bits is known for its appealing flavor, but this comes largely from added sugar and artificial flavorings. Dogs may enjoy eating it, yet the long-term health effects are questionable. It contains low-quality grains and meat by-products that do not provide sufficient nutrients. Artificial colors are added to make the food look attractive to humans, not to benefit pets. Choosing this brand may increase risks of weight gain, dental problems, and digestive issues.
Gravy Train
Gravy Train markets its products with the idea of a rich, tasty gravy coating, but the base ingredients are not ideal for canine health. The recipes rely heavily on wheat middlings, bone meal, and rendered fat instead of fresh meats. These fillers may satisfy hunger but do not provide lasting energy or strong muscle support. Artificial flavors and preservatives are also commonly included. Dogs need a higher standard of protein and balanced nutrients than Gravy Train delivers.
Pedigree
Pedigree is a familiar brand found in nearly every grocery store, but its recipes are built around corn gluten meal, soy, and meat by-products. These ingredients are far less digestible than real meat and can cause gastrointestinal discomfort for sensitive dogs. While it does include added vitamins, the overall protein quality is low. Pedigree also often contains artificial colors, which have no benefit to dogs. Many veterinarians recommend avoiding it in favor of higher-quality options.
Alpo
Alpo has a strong reputation from years of advertising, but the formulas use rendered meats, animal digest, and artificial flavors to boost taste. Instead of real, whole cuts of protein, it relies on low-cost sources with fewer nutrients. Dogs eating Alpo may not get the amino acids they need for muscle development and energy. Artificial colors and additives also appear in many recipes. While inexpensive, Alpo is not a reliable choice for long-term health.
Beneful
Beneful is visually appealing, with colorful bits meant to look like vegetables and grains. Unfortunately, the main ingredients are corn, soy, and by-products, not fresh meat. Artificial colors and preservatives are common, which provide no health benefit. Dogs may enjoy the taste, but the food is not nutrient-dense enough for optimal health. Long-term use may contribute to skin irritations, weight problems, and poor coat condition.
Cesar
Cesar’s small portion trays are popular for small dog breeds, but their ingredient quality is questionable. The recipes often include meat by-products, added salt, and artificial flavors to improve palatability. Excess sodium can strain kidneys over time, especially in smaller dogs. While convenient, the food does not provide the balanced nutrition needed for long-term wellness. A more natural option with whole proteins would better support small dogs’ health.
Iams (Standard Line)
While Iams has premium lines that offer better nutrition, its standard recipes rely heavily on fillers like cornmeal and animal by-products. These ingredients are harder for dogs to digest compared to real meat. Artificial preservatives and flavorings also appear in some recipes. Over time, these can contribute to skin issues, allergies, and reduced vitality. Owners should consider upgrading to higher-quality lines or switching to better brands altogether.
Dog Chow
Dog Chow has been around for decades, but it still uses corn, soybean meal, and low-quality grains as primary ingredients. These fillers provide calories without offering sufficient nutritional value. Artificial colors and flavors are also included, which do not serve any purpose for canine health. Dogs may not receive enough high-quality protein to maintain lean muscle. This makes Dog Chow a brand best avoided for long-term feeding.
Retriever
Retriever dog food is commonly sold in bulk at feed stores, but the formulas prioritize quantity over quality. The main ingredients include fillers like corn and soybean meal, along with rendered fat. This may keep costs low, but it does not deliver balanced nutrition. Protein quality is low, which can affect energy and coat health. Dogs may eat it readily, but it lacks the nutrients needed for optimal wellness.
Mighty Dog
Mighty Dog canned foods market themselves as hearty meals, but the ingredient list tells another story. They often include meat by-products, added sugar, and artificial coloring to make the product more appealing. These unnecessary additives can strain a dog’s digestive system and contribute to health problems. The protein sources used are not as nutrient-rich as real cuts of meat. Over time, this food may leave dogs deficient in essential nutrients.
Kal Kan
Kal Kan is positioned as a budget-friendly food, but this affordability is achieved through lower-quality ingredients. The recipes are built on corn, wheat, and soy fillers with meat by-products as the protein source. Artificial flavors and preservatives are also common. While it may meet basic feeding needs, it does not provide the balanced diet dogs need for long-term vitality. Over time, this can result in coat problems and digestive issues.
Hi-Tor
Hi-Tor is sometimes marketed as a veterinary diet, but the ingredient quality does not match that reputation. Many recipes rely on corn and meat by-products rather than whole proteins. Dogs may get full, but they do not receive the same nutritional benefits as with higher-quality food. Artificial additives also appear in certain lines, further reducing their appeal. For pets with special dietary needs, higher-quality veterinary brands are a safer choice.
Grreat Choice
Grreat Choice is a house brand from large retailers that emphasizes low prices. Unfortunately, this comes with significant compromises in nutrition. Recipes often feature fillers, artificial colors, and poor-quality protein sources. These do not provide the amino acids dogs need for strong muscles and energy. While cheap, the long-term impact of feeding Grreat Choice can be harmful to overall health.
Sportmix (Certain Formulas)
Sportmix produces a wide range of foods, but some of its formulas have faced recalls due to aflatoxin contamination. Beyond recall concerns, many recipes use corn, wheat, and soy as primary ingredients. These fillers are harder for dogs to digest and lack the nutritional value of whole meats. Artificial preservatives also appear in certain formulas. While not all Sportmix products are unsafe, the brand’s track record raises enough red flags to avoid it.
15 Dog Food Brands That Keep Pets Healthy
When it comes to feeding dogs, quality makes a big difference in their health, energy, and even life span. The best dog food brands focus on real, recognizable ingredients like deboned meat, whole grains, and fresh vegetables. They avoid artificial additives, chemical preservatives, and low-quality by-products. Many also include beneficial extras like probiotics for digestion, omega fatty acids for coat health, and antioxidants to support immunity. These brands may cost more, but they are investments in your pet’s long-term well-being.
Orijen
Orijen is considered one of the gold standards in pet nutrition. Its formulas use fresh regional meats like chicken, turkey, fish, and wild game, with a focus on whole-prey ingredients such as organs and cartilage. This approach mimics what dogs would eat in the wild, ensuring a balanced diet rich in protein and nutrients. Orijen avoids corn, wheat, soy, and artificial additives entirely. Its high protein content supports muscle strength, energy, and overall vitality.
Acana
Acana, made by the same company as Orijen, is another biologically appropriate brand. It uses high-quality animal proteins paired with fruits and vegetables sourced from trusted farmers. Acana offers a range of formulas, including grain-free and limited-ingredient recipes, to suit dogs with sensitivities. Unlike many cheaper foods, it uses low-glycemic carbs such as lentils and chickpeas rather than corn or wheat. Dogs eating Acana often benefit from improved digestion, healthier coats, and steady energy levels.
Blue Buffalo Wilderness
Blue Buffalo’s Wilderness line stands out for its focus on real meat as the first ingredient. The recipes avoid corn, wheat, and soy, which are common fillers linked to allergies and digestive problems. Instead, they include antioxidant-rich LifeSource Bits, a blend of vitamins, minerals, and nutrients. Dogs that eat Blue Buffalo often enjoy better skin and coat health, thanks to the omega fatty acids included. The variety of flavors and protein sources makes it easy for owners to find a formula their pet enjoys.
Wellness Core
Wellness Core is designed for dogs that thrive on high-protein diets. Its grain-free recipes feature deboned meats like turkey, chicken, and fish combined with vegetables and supplements for complete nutrition. Wellness Core includes probiotics for gut health and omega fatty acids to support shiny coats and healthy skin. It also avoids artificial flavors, colors, and preservatives. This makes it a great choice for dogs prone to allergies or digestive sensitivity.
Merrick Grain-Free
Merrick is known for its use of whole ingredients like deboned beef, chicken, or salmon, paired with sweet potatoes, peas, and other nutritious vegetables. The grain-free line is especially popular with dogs that have sensitivities. Merrick also enriches its recipes with glucosamine and chondroitin, which support joint health and mobility. Owners often report their pets have more energy and shinier coats after switching to this brand. Its use of natural ingredients makes it one of the healthier choices available.
Taste of the Wild
Taste of the Wild aims to replicate a natural ancestral diet by using roasted meats such as venison, bison, and wild salmon. These proteins are paired with legumes, fruits, and vegetables to create balanced nutrition. Each recipe is fortified with probiotics to aid digestion and immune health. The brand avoids artificial preservatives, colors, and fillers. Dogs often respond well to the unique protein options, making it a great choice for picky eaters or those with allergies to common meats.
Canidae Pure
Canidae Pure is built around limited-ingredient recipes, which makes it an excellent option for dogs with food sensitivities. Each formula includes 7–10 key ingredients, focusing on quality proteins like lamb, salmon, or bison. By reducing fillers and allergens, it helps minimize digestive problems and skin irritations. Canidae also enriches its recipes with probiotics, antioxidants, and omega fatty acids. Dogs benefit from improved digestion, stronger immunity, and better coat quality with this brand.
Nutro Ultra
Nutro Ultra combines multiple lean proteins like chicken, salmon, and lamb into one recipe, offering balanced amino acids for muscle health. It also includes whole grains such as brown rice and oatmeal for steady energy. The addition of antioxidant-rich fruits and vegetables, like blueberries and spinach, boosts immune function. Nutro avoids artificial colors, preservatives, and corn-based fillers. Owners often notice improved digestion and higher energy levels in their pets when using this food.
Instinct Raw Boost
Instinct Raw Boost combines traditional kibble with freeze-dried raw meat, creating a nutrient-rich formula. This blend offers both the convenience of kibble and the benefits of raw food. The raw inclusions provide enzymes and natural nutrients that help with digestion and coat health. Instinct avoids grains, artificial additives, and cheap fillers, focusing on wholesome ingredients. Dogs fed this brand often show improved digestion, more energy, and a shinier appearance.
Fromm Family Foods
Fromm Family Foods is a long-standing, family-owned company with a reputation for quality. Its recipes use fresh meats like duck, chicken, or beef, paired with wholesome grains and vegetables. The brand avoids artificial preservatives and uses natural antioxidants to maintain freshness. Fromm also emphasizes nutritional balance, supporting healthy weight, skin, and coat. Many pet owners choose Fromm for its consistency and reliable track record in pet nutrition.
Solid Gold
Solid Gold has been producing holistic dog food for decades, often incorporating superfoods into its recipes. Ingredients like pumpkin, blueberries, and salmon oil add natural sources of vitamins and antioxidants. Protein options include bison, lamb, and fish, ensuring variety for different dietary needs. The recipes also support digestive health with probiotics and fiber-rich ingredients. Dogs eating Solid Gold often show improvements in coat shine, digestion, and energy.
The Farmer’s Dog
The Farmer’s Dog is a fresh, subscription-based dog food brand that delivers meals straight to your door. Each recipe is cooked at low temperatures to preserve nutrients, using USDA-approved meats and vegetables. Meals are tailored to your dog’s weight, age, and activity level, ensuring personalized nutrition. Since the food is fresh and minimally processed, it is easier for dogs to digest. Many owners report healthier stools, shinier coats, and higher energy after switching.
Nom Nom
Nom Nom also provides fresh, human-grade meals for dogs, with recipes designed by veterinary nutritionists. Meals include proteins like turkey, beef, and chicken, paired with vegetables such as carrots and spinach. Because it is made from whole ingredients, Nom Nom is highly digestible and nutrient-dense. Portion sizes are personalized for each dog, which helps prevent obesity and maintain a healthy weight. Many dogs show improvements in coat quality, energy, and digestion on this diet.
Open Farm
Open Farm is popular among owners who value sustainability as much as nutrition. It uses ethically raised meats, wild-caught fish, and non-GMO fruits and vegetables. Each recipe is free from artificial additives and includes superfoods like coconut oil and pumpkin. The brand is transparent, even letting customers trace ingredients back to their sources. Dogs on Open Farm diets often enjoy improved skin and coat health, along with steady energy levels.
Honest Kitchen
Honest Kitchen makes dehydrated and freeze-dried foods from human-grade ingredients. By using real meats and vegetables, it ensures meals are nutrient-rich and minimally processed. Preparing the food is simple, as owners just add water to rehydrate. Honest Kitchen avoids by-products, fillers, and artificial ingredients. Dogs benefit from improved digestion, better hydration, and nutrient absorption with this brand.
Disclaimer: This article was created with AI assistance and edited by a human for accuracy and clarity.
