Best Healthy Dog Food

What’s Considered A Healthy Dog Food?

There is no single answer to the question of what is healthy dog food. However, there are some general guidelines that can help you choose a diet that is appropriate for your canine friend. Every dog is different and will have different nutritional needs, so it’s important to consult with your veterinarian before making any major changes to your pet’s diet.

In general, however, most dogs need a diet that is high in protein and low in carbohydrates. Fat should also be kept to a minimum, as too much fat can lead to health problems such as obesity and diabetes. It’s also important to ensure that your dog’s food contains all of the essential nutrients that they need in order to stay healthy. This includes vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants.

When it comes to medical needs, there are a few special considerations for dogs. For example, senior dogs may need a diet that is easier to digest, as their digestive systems tend to be less efficient as they age. Dogs with allergies or sensitivities may need to avoid certain ingredients in their food. And dogs with medical conditions such as kidney disease may need a specially formulated diet that meets their specific nutritional needs.

No matter what your dog’s individual needs are, there is a healthy dog food out there that is perfect for them.

A healthy diet is important for all dogs, but especially those that are prone to health problems. There are a lot of different types of dog food on the market, so it can be confusing to know which one is best for your pet. This guide will help you understand the benefits of healthy dog food and how to choose the right option for your dog.

 

Top 10 Healthiest Dog Food Brands

Benefits of healthy dog food

There are many benefits to feeding your dog a healthy diet. Perhaps the most obvious benefit is that it can help them maintain a healthy weight. Obesity is a major problem in dogs and can lead to a number of health problems, including arthritis, diabetes, and heart disease. A healthy diet can also help reduce the risk of these conditions developing in the first place.

Another benefit of healthy dog food is that it can help to improve your dog’s coat and skin. A healthy diet helps to keep your dog’s skin hydrated and can also help to reduce shedding. In addition, a healthy diet can give your dog’s coat a shiny, healthy appearance.

Finally, feeding your dog a healthy diet can also help to boost their immune system. This is important because a strong immune system will help to protect your dog from diseases and infections. Feeding your dog a nutritious diet will help them to stay healthy and happy for many years to come.

How healthy is your dog depends very much on the nutrition they get from their food or diet. Studies have shown that an unhealthy diet can cause many common problems such as:

  • Bad breath
  • Block glands
  • Constipation
  • Poor coat condition
  • Itchy skin
  • Allergies
  • Candida (yeast overgrowth)
  • Lack of energy and concentration
  • Wind/flatulence

Healthy Dog Food Essential Nutrients

As such it is very important to look for and ensure that the below-mentioned ingredients are present from your chosen high-quality healthy dog food:

  • Proteins from real meat or meat by-products as it provides the necessary animal proteins for muscle growth. Protein also helps in wound healing, supports the nervous system and promotes lean muscle over fat.  The protein should contain the essential amino acids which are arginine, histidine, isoleucine, leucine, lysine, methionine, phenylalanine, threonine, tryptophan, and valine. For more active dogs, the amount of protein needed is higher to repair and maintain their protein-dependent muscles.  For the sluggish dogs, it can help energise them.
  • Carbohydrates coming from plants such as grains, vegetables and fruits is an inexpensive source of calories for your dog. Active and hyperactive dogs need more calories in this diet. But too much carbohydrates can contribute to unnecessary weight gain. Dogs that has a lot of extra weight can experience many health conditions, such as arthritis and diabetes.
  • Fiber from vegetables and fruits are important as it provide the necessary dietary needs for a healthy digestive system.
  • Fat is also good for dogs, especially animal fat and is primarily used for energy. There are three basic types of fats – saturated fats, monounsaturated fatty acids, and polyunsaturated fatty acids. In general, more fats are needed for the hyperactive dog compare to the less active and overweight dog. Note that too little fat can lead to skin conditions and a dull coat. In addition, it also can cause the dog to feel hungry all the time.
  • Omega 3 and Omega 6 are important classes of polyunsaturated fatty acids which are usually source from fish oil. They are important for your dog’s healthy skin and coat, the brain, the kidneys, and heart function. These essential fatty acids (EFAs) also helps in lowering any inflammation and thus protecting the organs of your dog’s body. Fatty acids can also soothe joints and promote joint health.
  • Vitamins are needed for a stronger immune system, better eyesight and for fighting off aging. Vitamins can also help your dog absorb nutrients from the food and to prevent any nutrients deficiencies. Reducing vitamins deficiencies can lead to less illnesses and better health for your dog.
  • Minerals such as calcium, phosphorous, magnesium, sodium, chloride, potassium, iron, copper, zinc, manganese, iodine and selenium are the necessary minerals for healthy bones, nerves, and muscles.
  • Antioxidants for additional immunity support.

A better diet that provides all these nutrients not only build up a healthier dog, it can also minimises costly medical problems that requires frequent visits to a veterinarian.  Thus a recommendation here is to choose dog food that has these excellent ingredients. Getting all the necessary ingredients as mentioned above in a home-made dog food can be challenging. 

Commercial dog foods is a great option here as they are nutritional balanced, cost-effective and convenient. These are going to suit many dog owners, particularly those who don’t have the time to cook or the freezer space to store raw food.  When going for commercial dog food, aim for good quality brands that provide a good balance of ingredients. 

FAQs on healthy dog food

How do I know if my dog food is healthy?

When looking for healthy dog food, you should always check the label. The label should list the ingredients in order of predominance, and you should be able to see that the first ingredient is a meat protein. In addition, the food should not contain any artificial flavors, colors, or preservatives.

How much healthy dog food should I feed my dog?

The amount of healthy dog food you should feed your pet will depend on their age, weight, and activity level. 

What are the best brands of healthy dog food?

There are many different brands of healthy dog food on the market, so it is important to do your research before choosing one. You may want to ask your veterinarian for recommendations or read online reviews from other pet owners.

Now that you know more about healthy dog food, you can make an informed decision about what to feed your own pet. Remember, a healthy diet is important for all dogs, so be sure to choose food that is right for your pet’s individual needs.

 
Dog Lovers Pup - Best Dog Food reviews

Good healthy dog food brands include BLUE BUFFALO, CANIDAE, TASTE OF THE WILD, WELLNESS CORE, MERRICK, ORIJEN, PURINA, KIRKLAND, IAMS PROACTIVE as highlighted below.

By giving your dog these dog food once or twice daily that has high-quality ingredients, you can be assured that your dog is getting the necessary nutrition for a healthy life.

 

Our Top 2 Picks For Healthiest Dry Dog Food Brands

If you want a quick recommendation on the most healthy dog food, check out the following:

Top 10 Best Healthy Dry Food For Dogs

Key Ingredients

Deboned Chicken, Chicken Meal, Brown Rice, Barley, Oatmeal, Pea Starch, Flaxseed, Dried Tomato Pomace, Natural Flavor, Peas, Pea Protein, Salt, Potassium Chloride, Dehydrated Alfalfa Meal, Potatoes, Dried Chicory Root, Pea Fiber, Sweet Potatoes, Carrots, Garlic, Others, Vitamins, Minerals.

Highlights

  • BLUE BUFFALO Superior Nutrition Ultimate Protection, Chicken, Brown Rice & Healthy Fruits & Veggies
  • Real meat with chicken providing high quality protein for building your dog’s muscles
  • Wholesome Whole Grains with the meat giving this a healthy meal
  • Vegetables and fruits for a holistic meal
  • Antioxidant rich for strong immune system with special LIFESOURCE BITS formula
  • Vitamin and minerals like calcium for strong bones and teeth.
  • Glucosamine ingredient helps joint function and your dog’s mobility
  • Omega fatty acids from flaxseed added for a healthy dog’s skin and coat.
  • Packaging sizes which includes 6 lb, 15 lb, 30 lb
  • 3 Recipes available: Chicken & Brown Rice, Fish & Brown Rice; Lamb & Brown Rice.

Summary:

This product from BLUE BUFFALO Company is made in USA with vital ingredients giving your dog one of the most healthy dog food.  The food can be given dry or with water.  It has no wheat, corn and artificial preservatives. With enhanced supplementation of antioxidants and glucosamine, this a high-quality, holistic and healthy dog food.

Key Ingredients

Chicken meal, turkey meal, lamb meal, brown rice, white rice, rice bran, peas, potatoes, oatmeal, cracked pearled barley, chicken fat, millet, tomato pomace, natural flavor, flaxseed, oceanfish meal, salmon oil, choline chloride, salt, potassium chloride, suncured alfalfa, inulin (from chicory root), lecithin, sage extract, cranberries, beta-carotene, others, vitamins, minerals.

Highlights

  • CANIDAE Multi-Protein Formula with Probiotics, Omega 3 & 6 – Healthy Dog Food For Puppies, Adults & Seniors
  • Multi-Protein with chicken, turkey, lamb & fish meals means also a fuller meal for your dog
  • Probiotics support healthy digestion.
  • Antioxidants providing strong immune system
  • Vitamins A, E with minerals like Calcium promote your dog’s total well-being
  • Omega-3 and Omega-6 fatty acids for beautiful skin and coat.
  • Glucosamine and chondroitin for joint support included
  • Package sizes include: 5 lb, 15 lb, 30 lb, 44 lb package

Summary:

This product is from CANIDAE Corporation in USA and is committed to make pet food that makes difference. This dog food is formulated for dogs of all ages, breeds and sizes – from adult, puppy to senior dogs.  Multi-dog owners will find this an ideal dog food package to have.

Key Ingredients

Water buffalo, lamb meal, chicken meal, sweet potatoes, peas, potatoes, chicken fat (preserved with mixed tocopherols), egg product, roasted bison, roasted venison, beef, natural flavor, tomato pomace, potato protein, pea protein, ocean fish meal, salt, choline chloride, taurine, dried chicory root, tomatoes, blueberries, raspberries, others, vitamins, minerals.

Highlights

  • Taste of the Wild High Protein Real Meat Recipe Premium Dry Dog Food with Roasted Bison and Roasted Venison
  • High-Protein real meat from roasted bison, roasted venison as key ingredients.
  • Highly Digestible Protein from pasture-raised bison and venison.
  • Ancient grains like millet, quinoa, chia seed provide fiber and additional nutrients.
  • Probiotics and fiber specifically developed healthy digestive and immune system
  • Antioxidants from blueberries, raspberries, etc included
  • Omega fatty acid blend of Omega-3 and Omega-6 for healthy skin.
  • Package size is 28lb.

Summary:

This TASTE OF THE WILD High Prairie ancient grains dog food is made by a family owned brand in America.  This is a high-quality ‘All Life Stages’ nutrition recipe formulated to give complete nutrition and provide good health for your adult dog throughout their life.

Key Ingredients

Deboned Turkey, Turkey Meal (source of Glucosamine), Chicken Meal (source of Chondroitin Sulfate), Peas, Dried Ground Potatoes, Lentils, Chicken Fat (preserved with Mixed Tocopherols), Tomato Pomace, Ground Flaxseed, Natural Chicken Flavor, Salmon Oil, Taurine, Spinach, Broccoli, Carrots, Parsley, Apples, Blueberries, Kale, Others, Vitamins, Minerals.

Highlights

  • WELLNESS Core High Grain Free, Turkey recipe
  • Protein-Rich nutrition giving your dog a leaner body mass and muscle tone
  • Natural ingredients without wheat, corn, soy or artificial colours
  • Omega 3 fatty acids from salmon oil and flaxseed for healthy dog’s coat and skin.
  • Glucosamine and Chondroitin sulfate present for joint support and mobility
  • Grain free so is good for dogs with sensitive stomach.
  • Vitamins and minerals enhanced for nutrients
  • Superfood infusion with ingredients like spinach, broccoli, kale and others
  • Package sizes is 4 lb, 12 lb, 26 lb.

Summary:

The dog food is made in USA by WELLNESS PET FOOD based on their unique CORE recipes. Feeding instructions for dog weighing from 6 lb to over 115 lbs is provided. This healthy dog food is pride to have be grain-free, protein-rich with the essentials and vital nutrients in it.

Key Ingredients

Buffalo, Beef, Chicken, Duck, Lamb, Rabbit, Salmon, Turkey, Venison – Depending on Flavors;  Brewers Rice, Brown Rice, Whole Grain Wheat, Flaxseed,  etc.

 

Highlights

  • Protein from deboned meat, fish or poultry.
  • Grain Free recipe with no corn, wheat, gluten.
  • Whole foods like sweet potatoes, peas, apples for holistic nutrition.
  • Omega-3 and 6 fatty for healthy dog’s skin and coat
  • Glucosamine and Chondroitin Sulfate for joints and bones.
  • Antioxidants for a healthy immune system
  • Package size: 22 lb.

Summary:

This healthy dry dog food is made in USA by MERRICK PET CARE with a desire to craft the best pet food possible.  The real whole foods and high quality ingredients make this one of our featured good healthy dog food for adult dogs of all breeds.

Key Ingredients

Deboned chicken, deboned turkey, atlantic flounder, whole eggs, whole atlantic mackerel, chicken liver, turkey liver, chicken heart, turkey heart, whole atlantic herring, dehydrated chicken, dehydrated turkey, dehydrated mackerel, dehydrated chicken liver, whole dehydrated egg, whole red lentils, whole pinto beans, whole green peas, chicken necks, chicken kidney, whole green lentils, whole navy beans, whole chickpeas, lentil fiber, others, vitamins, minerals.

Highlights

  • ORIJEN Original High-Protein Grain Free, Adult Healthy Dog Food
  • Grain Free with 85% animal ingredients.
  • Vitamins A, E and high-quality proteins promoting optimum health for your dog
  • Calcium and phosphorous supporting healthy teeth and gums
  • Probiotics, prebiotics and natural fiber combination improving digestion in meals.
  • Omega-3 and Omega-6 fatty acids providing a healthly skin and coat for your dog.
  • Size: comes in 25 lb

Summary:

This ORIJEN ORIGINAL dog food has 85% animal ingredients and 15% vegetables, fruits with no grains.  With its premium quality,  the company has won many “Excellence in Canine Pet Food” awards in the past.   Trusted by pet lovers, this healthy dog food is prepared in their Kentucky DogStar Kitchen in USA.

7. PURINA Beneful Healthy Weight

Key Ingredients

Chicken, Chicken By-Product Meal, Whole Grain Corn, Soybean Hulls*, Barley, Whole Grain Wheat, Corn Gluten Meal, Soybean Meal, Rice, Poultry By-Product Meal, Glycerin, Egg And Chicken Flavor, Beef Fat Naturally Preserved With Mixed-Tocopherols, Poultry And Pork Digest, Oat Meal, Calcium Carbonate, Salt, Dried Apples, Dried Carrots, Dried Green Beans, Others, Vitamins, Minerals.

Highlights

  • PURINA Beneful Healthy Weight Dog Food.
  • Benefit Real Chicken Adult Dog Food
  • Farm-raised chicken as key ingredient
  • Whole grains providing energy to your dog
  • Fruits and vegetables with dried apples, carrots, green beans
  • Vitamins and minerals
  • Available in 28 lb bag.

Summary:

This PURINA BENEFUL Healthy weight dog food is prepared in its own USA facilities. The real chicken with 23 essential vitamins and minerals and no artificial flavors has made this product as one of the sought after healthy adult dog food.

 

Key Ingredients

Deboned Chicken, Chicken Meal, Oatmeal, Ground Brown Rice, Ground Barley, Peas, Tomato Pomace, Rice, Ground Flaxseed, Tomatoes, Chicken Fat, Carrots, Natural Chicken Flavor, Potassium Chloride, Choline Chloride, Spinach, Vitamin E Supplement, Taurine, Zinc Proteinate, Mixed Tocopherols added to preserve freshness, Sweet Potatoes, Apples, Blueberries, Others, Vitamins, Minerals.

Highlights

  • WELLNESS Healthy Weight, Deboned Chicken & Peas Recipe
  • Deboned Chicken and Peas recipe with no meat by-products
  • Proteins, select fats and carbohydrates to give your dog energy
  • Antioxidants from blueberries and spinach for a strong immune system
  • Vitamins, minerals, calcium for strong bones and joints, heathly teeth and gums.
  • Omega-3 and Omega-6 Fatty acids from flaxseed for a healthy dog skin and coat.
  • Probiotics for healthy digestion
  • Glucosamine and Chondroitin added to support joint health
  • Package size comes in 26 lb.

Summary:

This WELLNESS COMPLETE HEALTH Healthy weight dog food is made in USA. The recipe works on 5 signs of wellness in your dog which are Skin & Coat, Energy, Digestive Health, Eyes, Teeth & Gums, and Immunity.  Another quality healthy dog food for your selection.

9. KIRKLAND Healthy Weight Dog Food

Key Ingredients

Chicken meal, brown rice, peas, oatmeal, chicken, rice bran, flaxseed, glucosamine, chondroitin, etc.

Highlights

  • KIRKLAND Healthy Weight, Adult Healthy Dog Food
  • Chicken and vegetables formulation
  • Probiotics and prebiotics fiber help support healthy digestive and immune systems
  • Glucosamine and Chondroitin Sulfate present for joint nutrition
  • Omega fatty acids richness for healthy dog’s coat and skin.
  • Vitamins and minerals enhanced for nutrients
  • Antioxidants from Vitamin E, zinc for a healthy dog
  • Package size is 40 lb.

Summary:

This KIRKLAND SIGNATURE HEALTHY WEIGHT dog food is formulated for dogs who are overweight or prone to gain weight easily.  With its special recipe it provides your dog with optimal nutrition working towards a lean body. A healthy dog food for your overweight adult dog.

 

10. IAMS Proactive Health Optimal Weight

Key Ingredients

Chicken by-product meal, ground whole grain corn, chicken fat, Flaxseed, Vitamins, Minerals, etc.

 

Highlights

 

  • Protein from chicken and eggs for strong and firm muscles.
  • Wholesome grains providing essential nutrients & carbohydrates
  • Vitamins and minerals promoting optimum health for your dog
  • Calcium supporting healthy teeth and gums
  • Probiotics for improved digestion
  • Gluocosamine and Chondroitin Sulfate support healthy joints.
  • Omega-6 fatty acids providing a healthy skin and coat.
  • 29.1 lbs bag.

Summary:

This IAMS PROACTIVE HEALTH, HEALTHY WEIGHT dog food is formulated with L-Carnitine for healthy metabolism helps to promote healthy weight.  Made with real wholesome ingredients and with no wheat, soy and artificial preservatives makes this a good choice as a healthy dog food.

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Wild Earth Dog Food - Healthier Food for your pups

Healthy dog food with complete protein, superfood ingredients, high-quality prebiotic and dietary fiber that give your dogs stronger muscle and healthier guts.

  • Power-up & Energize Your Pup
  • Alleviate Allergies For Good & No More Scratching
  • Clear Skin & Healthy Shiner Coat
  • Ease Upset Stomach & Healthier Gut
  • Improve Digestion & Healthy Poops
  • Cleaner Ingredients, Cleaner Bowls
  • Veterinarian Developed
  • Natural & Complete Protein
  • Zero Meat & Zero Junk
  • Optimal Digestion Support

Better Nutrition Starts With Better Ingredients

Wild Earth Dog Food

Over 2,000+ happy pet parent reviews!

Conclusion

It is important for you to give healthy dog food for your dog. Healthy dog food means typically a good balance or mix of protein, fat, carbohydrates, vitamins, minerals, antioxidants, and probiotics.  Other than growth and development, a healthy dog food will strengthen the immune system which protect your dog from infections.  All these can contribute to the longevity of your dog.

While there are many choices out there, it is good to buy high quality healthy dog food from better known brands as they are more likely to have veterinary professionals design their recipe and products. In addition, these better brands may have more desirable ingredients that are great from your dog thereby providing the necessary and vital nutrients for your dog.

The 10 healthy dog food recommended here include brands like Blue Buffalo, Purina, Orijen, Wellness, Taste of the Wild, and others that are good quality choices at affordable prices. As such, you’re highly encouraged to select between any of these products.  Choosing one of these healthy dog food is a personal process and when your dog seems healthier and happier, you know that you have make a right choice for your dog.

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