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Right food for dogs with kidney disease (updated 2024).
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Just like humans, dogs can be affected by kidney disease which often requires specialized care. In fact, 10 % of dogs are likely to experience this condition. While kidney disease is not always fatal, early detection is important to ensure efficacy of treatment procedures. One of the approaches in the management of this condition is food. Proper planning of food for dogs with kidney disease can make a lot of difference in the life of the affected dog.
With the right information, proper planning, and the application of treatments, kidney disease can be effectively tackled, giving you a new chance at life. It doesn’t have to be fatal if things are done right and on time. In this post, we have discussed the right food for dogs with kidney disease and everything else you need to know to give your pet adequate care.
Kidney Disease in Dogs
Kidney disease in dogs can come in 2 forms; it could be chronic or acute. Each condition has a particular set of signs and symptoms associated with it. Acute kidney disease is often characterized by a sudden manifestation that can be treated with relative ease. However, a dog with kidney failure that is chronic usually develops over time and is harder to treat or manage. Knowing the differences will help in providing the right treatment and providing the right food for your dog.
Without proper kidney function, that is, waste removal, cleaning blood and body fluid balancing, the animal will experience debilitating symptoms. Veterinary care in addition to food choices is the way to resolve kidney diseases.
What Foods Help Repair Kidneys in Dogs?
Food for dogs with kidney disease is different from healthy dogs with no issues. There are certain food considerations that must be made in the interest of the affected pup. Meal plans will be different at different points of the dog’s life so it’s often best to work with an experienced veterinary personnel. Dogs with early stage kidney disease might do well with a protein rich diet compared to older dogs that will have difficulty processing the protein.
Whether you choose to make homemade meals or buy prescription food for your dog, getting the nutrients right is what truly matters. Therefore, it’s important to look out for meals that are tasty, have enough water content, low on phosphorus and has the right amount of protein
On average, the nutrient composition of foods that help repair kidney in dogs should have the following in the right proportion:
- Omega 3 fatty acid which contains EPA & DHA
Home-made Kidney Meals
Consider offering your dog more of organic diets that contain either or a combination of meaty bone, muscle meat, organ meat or fish. This sort of kidney diet is rich in the essential nutrients that a dog with kidney failure needs to stay alive and kicking.
Your home-made meals should consist of these:
- Animal protein, could be meat, organs, etc
- Fresh whole fruits and vegetables mixed into the food
- A lot of moisture (water content in the food)
Commercial Kidney Diet For Dog
For commercial prescription meals, the focus should be on meals that meet your pet’s dietary needs. When buying a commercial kidney diet for dogs , look out for foods that have the following features:
- Organic with no preservatives, additives or chemical processing
- With minimal phosphorus content in them as this element is known to slow down kidney disease progression
- Foods that contain a great deal of raw nutrients, this could be grains, veggies, fruits, properly prepared raw meat
- Foods low on sodium because sodium increases the workload of kidneys
- Foods rich in Omega-3 fatty acids and B-vitamins which are both essential in improving kidney function by replenishing its cells and reducing inflammation
Avoid kibble if your dog has a kidney disease condition. Kibble is dry food which can further dehydrate your dog’s system thereby worsening its failing kidney function.
What to Feed a Dog with Kidney Failure Who Will Not Eat?
It’s not enough to feed your dog with kidney failure with foods that help that kidney. The diet has to be tasty too so that the dog would love eating it. Therefore, it’s safe to say that the taste of the food is a huge part of ensuring that your dog eats its meal.
To this end, home-made meals are highly recommended because a lot of mixed options can be tried out to see what your pup loves. Home-made meals are often organic, nutrient-dense diets that your dog can find delicious.
If your dog with kidney disease will not eat, simply consider going for home-made meals following recommendations from a trusted veterinary specialist who has experience in organic dog food.
Frequently Asked Questions
What can i feed my dog with kidney failure and no appetite.
For dogs refusing to eat their meals due to a lack of appetite, you may wish to consult your veterinary specialist to learn about organic meals that dogs with kidney disease find tasty.
Canines suffering from kidney illness consume human food?
Dogs can eat human food like veggies, whole fruits, fish and fresh meat.
What if my dog has kidney failure and has stopped eating?
If your dog has stopped eating due to kidney failure, you may wish to visit your local vet to check your pet. Only through proper diagnosis will your vet know what’s wrong with your pet and make recommendations on the way forward.
What kind of food can I prepare for my kidney-failing dog?
Cooking for your dog with kidney failure can be a fun activity. Consider parboiling fresh veggies, raw meat and meaty bones. Ensure you don’t overcook the meals to maintain its freshness.
How to encourage a dog with kidney disease to eat?
Sometimes, your dog with kidney disease might need a little bit of motivation to eat its meal. Consider petting and speaking positively to your pet. Pamper and praise your dog as well as offer tasty treats that the animal will love to eat. Kidney food for dogs should be made to taste and smell great too.
Is chicken bad for dogs with kidney disease?
Chicken isn’t bad for dogs with kidney disease. As a food type, chicken has a good composition of meat and bone which are nutritious for an affected dog’s needs. While the meat provides rich healthy protein, the brittle bone of the chicken contains rich calcium is great for dogs with kidney. Chicken is completely safe for dogs experiencing kidney disease.
What meat is good for dogs with kidney disease?
The good meats for dogs with kidney disease are typically raw muscle meat and organ meat, from cattle, sheep, goats, pork, chicken or fish. Processed meat products should be avoided as much as possible.
Is white rice good for dogs with kidney disease?
White rice is good for dogs with kidney disease. It is low in phosphorus and potassium compared to other sources of carbohydrate. Digesting the rice is also easy for the dog’s system because of its rich mineral content.
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The Best Dog Food of 2024
If you have a new dog or are looking to make a change, check out these tried-and-tested brands.
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Best Overall
Nutro ultra dry dog food.
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Blue Buffalo Life Protection Formula
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Best Dog Food Delivery Service
Ollie fresh dog food.
Your pup deserves delicious food. But while your dog might act like what it wants most in the world is leftovers from your dinner table, dogs have different nutritional needs than people do — and every dog is unique. To find the best dog food, you'll want to target your dog's age, size and individual needs. (For instance, you might want to look for the small-breed or senior version of one of the top dog foods on our list.) That's why, beyond our top picks, it's important to start by asking your veterinarian for suggestions, too.
Our pros regularly test and review different canine products, including indestructible dog toys and dog strollers , and we're familiar with the top brands on the market. We've tested dog foods in our homes and with our panel of consumer testers. When doing our research we surveyed dog parents and veterinarians (including Dr. Caos and Megan Conrad , M.B.B.S., an associate veterinarian at Wellhaven Pet Health in Oregon and a dog owner) and considered ingredients, price, varieties and availability for each option. All in all, we looked at more than 25 different dog foods before making our list of favorites .
A blended recipe of chicken, lamb and salmon goes into this multi-protein dry dog food. One of our pet pro's dogs has been eating this food brand since puppyhood and still loves it.
Like other dry dog food, "the crunch texture can help promote dental health," says Dr. Caos . "The mechanical action of chewing kibble can help reduce tartar buildup and maintain healthier teeth and gums while the abrasive action of chewing can help scrape away plaque." Aside from maintaining those pearly whites, this kibble is complete with what the brand maintains are "superfoods" including grains, seeds, fruits and vegetables along with the protein (each cup has at least 22% crude protein). It's pricier than most traditional supermarket brands but a little less costly than other premium brands, and it has many reviewers singing its praises.
We're showing Nutro's dry food for large breeds, but the brand also offers Ultra versions for small dogs , weight management , puppies and senior dogs as well as wet food and a limited-ingredient option for dogs with sensitive stomachs. We like that you can find Nutro online including on Amazon, in pet stores including PetSmart and in mass retailers like Walmart.
There are more affordable classic dry dog foods on the shelves, but for premium ingredients at a reasonable price we like Blue Buffalo. Deboned chicken is the first ingredient, followed by chicken meal, brown rice, and a mix that includes barley, oatmeal and many fruits and vegetables. The brand includes vitamins, minerals and antioxidants to help boost a dog's immunity. On Amazon it gets more than 30,000 five-star reviews, with many reviewers calling it their dog's favorite.
Blue Buffalo is available many places including online, in pet stores, at supermarkets and in mass-retail chains. This link is to the adult chicken formula; there's also Baby Blue puppy food.
Fresh dog food must be refrigerated or frozen when it arrives through the mail, and it's more expensive than traditional kibble. Unfortunately you can't get a grasp on the exact monthly cost until you give it a try, since it varies depending on your dog's size and needs.
The brand says that plans start at less than $4 a day for small dogs, and average $8 a day between all breeds. Try now to get a plan customized for your pup! Our experts love how easy it is to personalize this dog food for your pet. In fact we've named it our favorite dog food delivery service and best dog food subscription box . You start by filling out a survey about your dog with their breed, weight and age, plus information about their activity level and any food sensitivities.
Then instead of you having to hunt down a food that's right for your pup, Ollie will cook and mail appropriate homemade meals, in flavors like chicken, turkey, pork and lamb. Choose from three different plans: the full fresh plan, the mixed bowl of half fresh and half Ollie kibble, or just a half-order of the fresh plan if you already have a dry dog food you like.
One of our analysts used Ollie for her finicky pup and particularly liked how easy the web site and app are to use, noting that you can change the delivery date or location. "I also love the compact packaging that doesn’t take up too much space in the freezer," she adds. "Food-wise, my super-picky Shiba seemed to like Ollie's fresh food much more than she ever liked kibble."
The Farmer's Dog Fresh Dog Food
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This popular meal service for dogs was founded back in 2015 with the idea that dogs, especially ones with food sensitivities, could thrive with homemade meals made of easily recognizable ingredients. The Farmer's Dog is particularly good for pets with sensitivities or allergies . The extremely detailed sign-up quiz helps you zero in on everything you need to consider to find the best formula for your dog, from their body condition (skinny, just right, rounded or chunky) to their activity level, pickiness, current food, health issues (including allergies and sensitivities) and whether or not they require a prescription diet.
Once you've filled out all of that information, The Farmer's Dog will provide you with a recommended plan including up to three flavors of freshly prepared dog food that they then flash-freeze. (We named them the best frozen dog food delivery service .) Protein can include chicken, beef, turkey or pork. Interestingly, they'll also sell you just the raw ingredients and teach you recipes if you want to try to DIY your dog's food at home.
Either way, their subscription is likely to be more expensive than store-bought food, and less convenient since you'll have to be home to receive your delivery and get it into the fridge or freezer. The brand says that plans start at $2 a day. To illustrate how costs can range, the web site gives an example of a 11-pound Yorkshire terrier whose fresh food plan is $2.80 a day and a 75-pound Labrador retriever mix whose fresh food plan is $10.39 a day. Fans say it's worth it if their dog thrives on it.
Purina Pro Plan
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Dr. Conrad highly recommends this brand since she finds it to be one of the "most nutritionally balanced" options on the market. Omega-6 fatty acids help keep a dog's skin and coat healthy and shiny, while EPA and DHA (found in the salmon and fish oil) help promote heart health. It also features natural prebiotic fiber to help improve digestive health by cultivating helpful intestinal bacteria, so it's good for a dog with a sensitive stomach.
When reading the ingredient list, you'll see this option mainly relies on fish proteins, with a variety of vitamins and minerals like vitamin-E and vitamin-A supplements as well as choline chloride to keep pup's liver healthy. It is also poultry-free, which can be a taste preference for some picky pups.
There are many other Pro Plan varieties for dogs of different sizes and with different issues. Just a few include a high-protein mix with beef, a weight management formula for large dogs and a puppy formula . Purina is a well-known mass-market brand available online, in pet stores, in grocery stores and in large retail chains. If you need to pay less, you can also check out the Purina One line.
Merrick Grain-Free Dog Food
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Though most dogs don't need a grain-free diet, your vet might recommend one if your dog has shown sensitivities or allergies to grains .
"Every dog is unique, and their nutritional needs may vary," Dr. Caos explains. "While some dogs thrive on grain-free formulas, others may do well on diets containing grains." This beef-and-sweet potato recipe is packed with 32 percent protein and is formulated for all breeds. It also includes omega-6 and omega-3 fatty acids to promote healthy skin and shiny fur, and glucosamine and chondroitin that help keep joints and hips healthy. Deboned beef is the first ingredient, followed by lamb meal, salmon meal and then sweet potatoes.
There are relatively limited number of grain-free varieties in the Merrick line but they do sell grain-free dog food for puppies . Also popular: The Merrick grain-free wet dog foods, such as a canned steak dinner . The brand is widely available online, in pet-food stores and at some mass retailers.
Wellness Canned Dog Food
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There are a few reasons you might want to opt for wet dog food like this one by Wellness, according to Dr. Caos. For dogs with existing dental issues that may have trouble chewing hard food, and for dogs that don't seem to drink enough water throughout the day, the high moisture content makes this type of food easier to chow down on and helps keep dogs hydrated . Dr. Caos also notes that wet dog food can be more appealing to pets due to its "softer texture, stronger smell and richer flavors."
Canned food tends to be a bit more expensive than dry kibble, but it's a less expensive option than fresh. Cans are heavy and you'll need to store unused portions of an open can in the fridge. But unlike with fresh dog food, canned food is shelf-stable and can last a good long while unopened. The main protein source in this one is lamb and beef, but it also features a variety of added vitamins and supplements to help promote your pet's healthy immune system, digestion and strong bones.
Other flavors include turkey and even a venison and salmon mix, and you can buy Wellness dog food in many stores, including PetSmart and Walmart, and on many web sites, including Amazon and Chewy.
Hill's Science Diet Dry Dog Food
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Hill's Science Diet is another one of the dog food brands that Dr. Conrad specifically recommends due to its "nutritionally balanced" formula that's great for many different types of dogs.
This version for small and mini breeds is especially popular with pet owners, with more than 22,000 five-star reviews on Amazon. It's got extra-small kibble made for tiny jaws and is formulated with omega-6 and vitamin E for a shiny coat and healthy skin. Chicken meal is the first ingredient and its main source of protein, but there's also rice, whole grain wheat, soybean, barley and corn in the mix.
This one is meant for adult dogs ages 1 to 6. If your small dog tends to get chunky there's also a weight management formula, one for small dogs with a sensitive stomach and there's a senior formula for small dogs ages 11 and older. There's a different adult formula for dogs who fall into the middle ages of 7 to 10 — the brand's age labeling is a bit confusing. Hill's Science Diet is sold primarily at pet stores, veterinarian offices and online.
Royal Canin Dry Dog Food
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Hyper-specific formulas are a hallmark of the Royal Canin brand, which offers dozens of blends so you can find the one that best matches your dog's size and age . This variety, for large adult dogs 56 to 100 pounds, is made of bigger kibble pieces for their strong jaws. It's a chicken formula (like almost all Royal Canin dog food) that's also packed with antioxidants, vitamins and omega fatty acids for your big dog's shiny coat, bone health and joint support.
What if your dog is extra large? There's also a formula for giant breeds who weigh over 100 pounds. Royal Canin also tailors meals for specific breeds like its Golden Retriever , Labrador Retriever and Rottweiler formulas. The shape of the kibble changes for each one! Finally, if your future biggie is small right now small, the brand has large breed puppy food. This brand is pricey and though it's sold at pet stores, veterinarian offices and online, it's not usually in grocery stores or mass-retail chains.
Stella & Chewy's Meal Mixers
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Raw dog food seems to be all the rage, with marketing that seems to say the closer dog food is to a fresh kill, the more appropriate it is for your dog. The American Veterinary Medical Foundation (AVMF) cautions against handling and serving actual raw protein to your pup, because it can give you or your pet a foodborne illness.
We think a freeze-dried raw dog food, like these Meal Mixers from Stella & Chewy's, is a smart way to go if you want to try the trend without the danger of preparing raw meat yourself. (Plus, it's shelf-stable!) They are single-sourced high-protein pieces, 40 percent crude protein, and the brand suggests you mix it with your dog's regular kibble. That way your pet gets the added taste and a blast of protein.
"My dog loves everything Stella & Chewy," reports one of our Lab leads. Because each bag is essentially about 95 percent meat, they are expensive. This 35-ounce pouch is about the same price as many 30-pound bags of dry dog food. So it really is just meant as a topper, as the brand says, to "kickstart your kibble." A slightly less-expensive alternative is the brand's dinner dust that you shake onto dry dog food like a seasoning. Stella & Chewy's is sold in pet stores and online.
Nom Nom Freshly-Made Frozen Dog Food
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One of our Lab pet parents loves using the Nom Nom web site to regularly receive meals for her large dog. But another prefers to only use the fresh food sometimes as a meal topper . If you're just fresh-food curious or only want to serve homemade dog food as a treat or topper, we like that you can pick up seven pouches of Nom Nom dog food through web sites including Chewy and at stores including PetSmart.
Nom Nom offers four ready-cooked flavors plus a variety pack . You receive them frozen and will want to put them in the fridge if you'll serve them soon or freezer if you're saving them for a special occasion. Each recipe includes protein, veggies and vitamins. What you're missing out on by just picking up these pouches is having the brand tailor a recipe for your dog's special needs. For that, you'd want to move to a subscription through nomnomnow.com.
How we chose the best dog food brands
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The Good Housekeeping Institute reviews all kinds of pet products, including food-based products like dog treats and dog supplements .
We test brands with our Lab experts who have dogs, send brands out to tester families and read through hundreds of online reviews to understand real-life usage. We also scour each product's ingredient list and check and double-check to be sure each dog food is available no matter where you live in the U.S. For this story we also consulted two veterinarians to ensure that we're only recommending the safest and healthiest dog foods.
Our final list consists of reliable brands we trust, veterinarian-recommended products and our Good Housekeeping pros' favorites. Each brand meets nutritional requirements set by the Association of American Feed Control (AAFCO) to ensure that your pet will have all the nutrients for their life stage.
What to consider when shopping for the best dog food
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Dogs need animal protein — even if you're a vegetarian, your dog can not be. But grains, fruits and vegetables are all perfectly okay to be in your dog's food along with the meat, poultry or fish that is their main sustenance.
✔️ Trust the vet: "Your veterinarian knows your dog's specific needs and can provide valuable guidance on selecting the right dog food," Dr. Caos says. "They can consider factors like age, breed, size, activity level and any health conditions in order to recommend an appropriate diet."
✔️ Your dog will have opinions: You can lead a dog to a premium kibble but you can't necessarily make it eat. You may need to try a few flavors to hit on what they love, so buy a small bag when you're trying a new dog food .
✔️ Find a formula that fits them: While puppy food may be formulated to support their growth, senior dog food is created to help their joints, bone and skin as they get old. The American Kennel Club notes that large dogs can be more prone to musculoskeletal problems than their small breed counterparts, so you'll want to ensure that you're purchasing dog food specifically for large breeds if you've got one, since it has a different balance of nutrients. Smaller dogs, meanwhile, benefit from a food for them that has smaller kibble pieces that are easier for them to eat.
✔️ Check the ingredient list: " High-quality ingredients [should be] the primary components of the dog food," Dr. Cao says. "The first few ingredients should ideally be named animal protein sources, such as chicken, beef or fish. Avoid foods that list vague terms like 'meat meal' as the main protein source."
Your vet can also tell you if there's anything to avoid with your dog. For instance, most dogs don't need grain-free dog food, but some dogs do benefit from it. " If your dog has specific dietary restrictions or allergies, choose a food that accommodates those needs," Dr. Caos says. The FDA studied grain-free dog food to see if there was a link between it and canine heart disease; the study was inconclusive. A more recent study from the University of Missouri found no link between grain-free diets and the development of dilated cardiomyopathy (DCM). But to be safe, don't put your pet on a grain-free diet until you've received clearance from the veterinarian.
✔️ Get expert-formulated recipes: To ensure your pet is getting the healthiest (and tastiest) chow, you'll want to look for brands that use board-certified nutritionists to formulate the diet. This means they'll test for nutrient content and adequacy, and assess the food for contaminants. Most major brands do this.
How to read a dog food label
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"Look for dog foods labeled as ' complete and balanced ' by reputable organizations like the Association of American Feed Control Officials (AAFCO)," says Dr. Caos. According to the AAFCO , when a dog food says it's “complete," it means it contains all of the nutrients you'll need for your pet at its life stage. "Balanced," on the other hand, means that those nutrients are in the right ratios. Different doggie life stages require different ratios of nutrients.
Here's a handy guide to know how much chicken is actually in that "chicken and rice" recipe:
If the ingredient is present in the name of the dog food, it must make up at least 95% of the food (not including water). If water is included in these numbers, then the combined ingredients in the name must make up at least 70% of the food . The ingredient listed first is the most prominent one in the recipe. So, if you're looking at "chicken and rice" dog food, at least 95% of the product by weight will be made up of both chicken and rice with the rest of the 5% comprised of vitamins and minerals to help your pup stay healthy. However, if the name of the food comes with a descriptor like "dinner," "platter" or "entrée," then the meat ingredients in the name must only make up 25% of the product . Finally, if it's described as "food with chicken," than chicken must only make up 3% of the food .
Ingredients are listed in descending order based on how much of the dog food they make up by weight.
Find feeding directions on the container to know how much food to pour for your pet based on their weight.
If you're in the market for dog food, you've probably heard two of the most common buzzwords: grain-free and human-grade .
"There is no reliable evidence that suggests that it is harmful to feed grains to dogs," according to what the Clinical Nutrition Team at Tufts University Cummings Veterinary Medical Center wrote on their blog . "Whole grains, rather than being 'fillers,' can contribute valuable nutrients." Dr. Caos notes that while some pets thrive on grain-free diets, others need healthy whole grains. "The decision between grain-free formulas should be based on careful consideration of your dog's nutritional needs, health status and professional guidance from a veterinarian or veterinary nutritionist," he says. Similarly, human-grade food signifies that the ingredients all meet federal regulations for humans, but according to AAFCO, just because the food is human-grade does not mean it is nutritionally best (or safe) for your dog.
How to help your pet adjust to a new food
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If you have made the decision to switch your dog's food to a new brand, it may seem like a daunting task to get them on board with the change. To make it go smoothly:
- Transition slowly: One of the things that may prevent your pet from getting acclimated to a new food is a too-abrupt transition. "Gradually introduce the new food by mixing small amounts of it with the old food over a period of about seven to 10 days," Dr. Caos says. "Start with a small proportion of the new food and gradually increase the amount while decreasing the old food. This allows your pet's digestive system to adjust."
- Monitor your pet's response: Keep an even closer eye than usual on your dog's behavior and note any physical changes, like their appetite, energy level and more. "If you notice any concerning symptoms or persistent issues, consult with your veterinarian for further guidance," Dr. Caos says.
- Try some variety: Picky eaters may take a bit longer to warm up to new flavors and smells. "Consider offering different flavors or varieties of the new food to see if there's a particular one your pet prefers," Dr. Caos says. "You can also try warming the food slightly or adding a small amount of low-sodium chicken broth or water to enhance palatability."
- Chat with your vet: "If your pet continues to have difficulty adjusting to the new food, it's advisable to consult with your veterinarian," Dr. Caos explains. They should be able to offer personalized recommendations.
Why trust Good Housekeeping?
The Good Housekeeping Institute has been providing expert reviews and advice on pet essentials for decades. This story was originally written by Jamie Spain , who vetted many of the picks with her own dog. For insight on dog nutrition, she consulted Dr. Alejandro Caos , DVM, a veterinarian with The Vets , and Dr. Megan Conrad , M.B.B.S., an associate veterinarian at Wellhaven Pet Health.
This article was most recently updated by Contributing Writer Jessica Hartshorn who works in our Pets & Parenting Lab reviewing products such as dog coats and jackets and cat toys . While her own pets are felines, her cousin lives right downstairs from her with a dog, so she gets plenty of canine time, too!
Jamie (she/her) is a parenting and pets reviews analyst at the Good Housekeeping Institute , where she spends her time testing, researching and writing about pet and family products. Prior to starting at GH in 2021, she worked at BuzzFeed and People , covering a combination of product reviews and lifestyle content. She's a graduate of Northwestern University’s Medill School of Journalism, with a bachelor’s degree in journalism and psychology and a master’s degree in journalism.
Jessica (she/her) is a freelance writer with several decades of experience writing lifestyle content and evaluating home and parenting products. A mom of two teens and two cats, her previous work can be seen in American Baby and Parents .
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The 9 Best Dog Foods You Can Buy at Walmart, According To 407 Dogs
In This Article
- Our Top Picks
- What To Look For
How We Found The Best Dog Foods Available At Walmart
Why we don’t recommend grain-free dog foods, why trust the spruce pets.
The Spruce Pets / Amelia Manley
Shopping at Walmart—online or in-store—is convenient for many Americans, and the big box store offers a wide selection of highly rated dog foods.
With 4,500+ Walmart stores throughout the United States, customers have the option to get their preferred dog food shipped to their home, or if a location in your area has the product you want in stock, you can choose between same day delivery or pre-order pick up to have the dog food set aside for you upon arrival.
We sought feedback from 407 dog parents, polling them on the dog food brand and product that works for their household, while gleaning additional insights for dogs of all sizes, ages, and breeds. You can learn more about our polling methodology below our recommendations, under the heading How We Found The Best Dog Foods Available At Walmart .
Best Overall
Hill's science diet.
No artificial colors, flavors, or preservatives
Made with easy-to-digest ingredients
Formulas for breed size and specific health needs
Available as wet or dry food
Can be shipped directly to your home from Walmart
Sizes and recipes not always available for same day pickup or delivery (varies by location)
Hill's Science Diet dog food is always made with human-grade ingredients in the United States with real animal protein (chicken, beef, fish) as the first ingredient.
It's our overall pick for most dogs at any life stage, and among our 407+ dog parents who participated in our panel, Hill's Science Diet received the highest score (tied with FreshPet, Best Refrigerated) for quality ingredients, overall satisfaction, value, and its ability to address their dog's current health needs. The food was also praised for it's ability to aid digestion with consistent, straightforward results from meal time to potty time.
All recipes provided essential vitamins and nutrients, and there are formulations to address weight management , joint discomfort , sensitive skin & coat , and oral care . But the price of this dog food has increased as of late, and the larger sized canned variety could benefit from an improved pull tab lid to make it easier to open without the use of a can opener.
Hill's Science Diet is readily available as both dry kibble and wet canned dog food on Walmart's website, but in-store stock varies by location.
Life Stage: Puppy, adult, senior | Food Type : Dry, wet | Breed Size: Mini, small, medium, large, x-large
Best Refrigerated
Freshpet dog food.
Made with human-grade ingredients sourced from farms in the United States
Appeals to picky eaters
Never made with meat-meal by products
Less likely to be available for shipping
FreshPet offers the freshness, flavor, and nutritional value of making home-cooked meals for a dog all conveniently packaged in a resealable bag or a slice-and-serve roll. FreshPet's quality ingredients and appeal to picky eaters received high marks among our home testers and made this brand of pet food tied for the top score with our Best Overall pick, Hill's Science Diet.
When browsing Walmart's vast selection of FreshPet's food , you'll likely notice that the majority are available for same-day pickup or delivery and not shipping. The food must remain refrigerated at all times to preserve the freshness and once a package is opened, it should be consumed within seven days.
All recipes are made with human-grade ingredients, including farm-raised chicken, fish , beef, eggs, fruits, and vegetables, all sourced and manufactured within the United States.
Within FreshSelect's dog food offerings, there are grain-free recipes along with small breed and puppy-specific formulations, but it can be more difficult to find some of the flavors and there isn't a senior-specific recipe. Each resealable bag offers protein-rich, nutritionally balanced morsels that are easy to serve, and the sausage-shaped roll is easy to slice and cut into pieces that align with your dog's size, but it's also soft and easy for them to chew.
Life Stage: Puppy, adult | Food Type : Refrigerated | Breed Size: Small, medium, large
Best Budget
Iams proactive health dog food.
Formulations for specific health needs
Made with human-grade ingredients
Supports a healthy metabolism and digestive system
Recipes often include by-product meals
Looking for high-quality dog food at an affordable price ? Iams offers kibble and canned dog food with recipes to provide essential daily nutrition along with formulations for specific health needs that are common among dogs, including weight management , joint and bone support , digestive maintenance , and the wonderful puppy and senior eras of life.
Meat or fish is the first ingredient in all of Iams food for dogs, but recipes also include by-product meals. The flavors and textures are enjoyed by dogs, but their human guardians participating in our testing collective would like to see more vegetables added to Iams recipes.
Life Stage: Puppy, adult, senior | Food Type: Dry, wet | Breed Size : Extra small, small, medium, large, extra large
Best Kibble
Purina pro plan adult complete essentials.
Formulations to address specific health needs and breed sizes
Glucosamine for joint health and mobility
Calcium and phosphorous for proper teeth and bone development
Antioxidants and probiotics for immune and digestive health
Recipes may contain corn gluten meal, protein by-product meal, and/or pea protein
Purina Pro Plan Complete Essentials dog food offers protein-packed kibble in a variety of flavors made with meat (chicken, beef, turkey, or lamb) or fish as the first ingredient. Each serving is fortified with antioxidants, probiotics, vitamins, and minerals to keep a dog's immune system and digestive track functioning properly, and more than 50 dog parents in our testing collective fill their dog's bowl with a recipe from this brand citing their vet's recommendation as the lead determining factor in their choice.
There are two primary recipes for adults, Chicken & Rice and Beef & Rice, along with variations for small breeds , large breeds , puppies , and seniors . But recipes often include by-product meals, corn gluten meal, and/or pea protein. The latter of which (pea protein) is suitable for dogs in small doses and is primarily found Purina Pro Plan's Sensitive Skin and Stomach recipes.
Life Stage: Puppy, adult, senior | Food Type: Dry, wet | Breed Size : Small, medium, large
Blue Buffalo BLUE Homestyle Recipe Wet Dog Food
Made without by-product meals, corn, soy, or wheat
Free of artificial flavors and preservatives
Can be mixed with dry food
Some flavors and formulations are difficult to come by
Blue Buffalo's dog foods are always made without by-product meals, corn, soy, wheat, artificial flavors, or preservatives, and, according to our panel of 400+ dog parents, Blue Buffalo's wet food is appetizing and easy to digest, and can help improve the condition of a dog's skin and coat.
All of Blue Buffalo's meat-first recipes are made with human-grade ingredients and enhanced with vitamins, minerals, and nutrients that dogs need. Blue Buffalo has several lines of wet food for dogs to meet the dietary needs, health issues, and flavor preferences of all dogs, including Wilderness (high in protein), Blue Delights (small breed), and Blue Basics (for skin and stomach care).
In 12.5 ounce can, Blue Buffalo recommends serving 1/2 to 3/4 of a can per for every 10 pounds of your dog's weight, The wet food from Blue Buffalo can be mixed with the brand's dry food ( also found at Walmart ), but be sure to adjust the portion size according to directions listed on the product label to avoid overfeeding your dog.
Type: Wet, dry | Life Stage: Puppy, adult, senior | Breed Sizes : Small, medium, large
Purina ONE Dog Food
Natural ingredients with added vitamins, minerals, and nutrients
Effective recipes for sensitive stomachs and weight maintenance
No fillers used in recipes
Likely to be in stock at Walmart
Ingredients include by-product meals
Purina ONE's wet and dry food recipes are made with natural ingredients and fortified with vitamins, minerals, and nutrients. Plus, over 40 real dog parents in our testing survey credit Purina ONE with effectively alleviating their dog's health issues, including sensitive stomachs and weight management .
Purina ONE is more widely available, and at a lower price point, than Purina Pro Plan (they share Nestlé Purina PetCare as a parent company), and recipes are likely to be in stock at a Walmart location and their website.
All Purina One recipes are manufactured in the United States and optimized for general maintenance and health, which options to support specific health concerns, joint issues , cognitive support , and skin sensitivities .
Life Stage: Puppy, adult, senior | Food Type: Dry, wet | Breed Size: Small, medium, large
Best for Weight Management
Purina pro plan adult weight management dog food.
Has 15 percent less fat than similar Purina recipes
Has crunchy recipe and crunchy and chewy recipe
Formulas for large and small breeds
Often recommended by vets
Only chicken and rice flavor
According to a survey published by the Association for Pet Obesity and Prevention, more than half of dogs in the U.S. are overweight, which means they are 10 to 20 percent heavier than their ideal weight. Although the problem is so prevalent, many pet owners don’t even realize their dogs weigh more than they should. Too many treats and an overflowing food bowl can be linked to problems like arthritis, heart disease, and diabetes. Talk to your vet, who may suggest switching your dog to a weight management food like this one from Purina Pro Plan.
This has 15 percent less fat than other similar formulas from Purina. It comes in a chicken and rice recipe as well as a shredded blend which has crunchy kibble with some chewier chicken pieces. There are also formulas for large and small breeds. The feeding chart suggests how much food to offer daily based on weight as well as how much to feed if you’d like your dog to lose about 25 percent of their weight.
Life Stage: Adult | Available Flavors: Chicken and rice, shredded chicken and rice | Primary Ingredients: Chicken, rice, poultry by-product meal
Best Organic
Purina beyond organic wet dog food.
Free-range chicken raised without antibiotics or growth hormones is lead source of protein
Free of artificial preservatives, flavors, and colors
Made with USDA-certified organic and Non-GMO Project Verified ingredients
Chicken is the only certified organic protein source, but the brand does offer other non-organic recipes
Not likely to find in store at Walmart
There are two recipes of wet dog food within Purina's Beyond line that are made with USDA-certified organic ingredients, Chicken & Carrot and Chicken & Sweet Potato . Both recipes start with organic chicken, chicken broth, and organic vegetables to provide adult dogs with protein, fiber, vitamins, minerals, and nutrients.
Each 13-ounce can of Purina Beyond Organic Wet Dog Food offer natural probiotics and are always made without corn, soy, or wheat. Plus, these Beyond Organic canned dog foods are Non-GMO Project Verified so each ingredient is grown without the use of prohibited synthetic pesticides or fertilizers.
On the website, Walmart carries additional wet food recipes from Purina Beyond, but not all are not made with ingredients that are certified organic by the USDA. However, all dog food within Purina's Beyond line is made without the use of artificial colors, flavors, or preservatives.
Life Stage: Adult | Available Flavors: Chicken & carrot recipe; chicken & sweet potato recipe | Primary Ingredients: Organic chicken, organic chicken broth, organic chicken liver
Best Treats
Zuke's mini naturals.
Great small size for training
Lots of flavors
No fillers or artificial ingredients
Soft treats can harden if bag isn’t sealed well
These soft training dog treats are quite enticing to pups. They come in all sorts of interesting flavors, so if your dog doesn’t like chicken, try salmon or peanut butter and oats. There are also three recipes just for puppies that are smaller and have added omega-3 DHA and EPA to support brain development, according to the brand. Each flavor has some type of meat protein or peanut butter as the main ingredient.
These treats are meaty and tempting, which makes them perfect for getting your dog’s attention. They are small and only about 3 calories per treat, but they are soft enough that you can tear them into even smaller pieces for tiny pets. They’re so soft that they are easy for senior dogs with dental issues.
Zuke’s treats have no fillers, by-products, or artificial ingredients. They’re made in the U.S. with no corn, wheat, or soy.
Life Stage: All | Available Flavors: Chicken, peanut butter & oats, salmon, beef, duck, rabbit, lamb and chickpea (puppy), pork and bacon (puppy), salmon and sweet potato (puppy) | Primary Ingredients: Meat protein, rice, vegetables, fruit
Final Verdict
Our best overall pick is Hill's Science Diet Dog Food , which comes in many formulas, is vet recommended, and contains no artificial preservatives, colors, or flavors. For dog's that prefer a softer texture or picky eaters, we like recipes from FreshPet which are all made with real meat or fish as the ingredient and found in the refrigerator section.
What to Look for in Dog Food
Aafco nutritional adequacy statement .
When shopping for dog food, look for the AAFCO (Association of American Feed Control Officials) statement that indicates the food is nutritionally complete and balanced. The AAPCO statement indicates that those foods have had feeding trials and lab testing to ensure they offer substantial nutrition for the life stage of the pet.
Common Ingredients
Check the label when choosing a dog food. The first ingredient should ideally be protein with lots of whole foods and added nutrients to support the health needs of your pet. Ask your vet which added nutrients and ingredients would be a good choice for your dog.
- Protein – some sort of meat (chicken, beef, lamb) as the main ingredient
- Whole foods – for overall nutrition (Fruits and vegetables can include carrots, pumpkins, and blueberries)
- Fiber – for easier digestion
- Omega-3 fatty acids – for healthy skin and coat
- Antioxidants – for healthy immune system
- Byproducts — can be a combination of liver, blood, brains, bones, and cleaned intestines
To evaluate the incredible range of available dog foods, our research panel put together a comprehensive questionnaire, asking for dog owner's to describe the qualities that matter most to them when they choose a dog food brand. We learned what brands were recommended by veterinarians, and which had the most trustworthy list of ingredients. We also looked for high-value brands that can fit in people's budgets, and brands with wide retailer availability, including Walmart.
We gathered details about a dog's size, breed, and age, which helped us make picks tailored to a wide range of dogs, since the best dog food for a young full grown rescue might not be the best dog food for a senior with a sensitive stomach.
In total, 407 respondents described how they and their dogs felt about the dog foods they used at home, using a combination of numerical scores and detailed feedback.
Some dogs with specific medical conditions may benefit from the increased moisture content that is in wet dog food . The food that is healthiest for your dog may not be the healthiest food for another dog. Ask your veterinarian if they recommend a specific type of food for your specific dog.
Small, toy breed, and very young dogs may benefit from several feedings during the day to help stabilize their blood sugar. Larger and adult dogs are usually fine with one or two feedings per day but some may need more. Very active dogs and those with certain medical conditions may need three or four feedings each day
There is a lot of discussion regarding grain-free diets in dogs, but most experts agree that dogs should eat some grains. Dogs are omnivores so rice, barley, corn, and other grains are actually important to their daily diet.
Dog food does not last forever, so you will want to pay attention to the expiration date on the packaging. Additionally, if you do not store the food properly, it may spoil or the ingredients like vitamins may lose their potency prior to the expiration date. Wet foods need to be used within a few days of being opened but dry kibbles will usually be good for several months or even a year or more if they are stored in their original packaging and in an airtight container . Once you reach the expiration date of the food, it should be disposed of and not fed to your dog.
No, it is best to remain consistent with the food you feed your dog. Changing flavors can result in your dog becoming selective or picky and drastic changes in foods can cause diarrhea and vomiting. Variety in what is eaten is not necessary in our dog's lives, despite the fact that not many people want to eat the same thing every day.
Grain-free diets have become very popular, but there is some question about potential health concerns. The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) is investigating a possible connection between heart disease in dogs and certain diets, specifically grain-free foods . From 2014 through April 2019, the FDA received 524 reports of a heart condition called canine dilated cardiomyopathy. When the FDA was able to study the dog’s diet, researchers found that more than 90 percent of diagnosed cases involved dogs that ate grain-free food, and 93 percent ate grain-free recipes with peas and/or lentils. Until this research is complete and clear, we don’t recommend grain-free dog foods.
This story was updated by Anna Mejorada , a writer for The Spruce Pets, who shares her home with a happy pomeranian named Gidget. Before researching and writing about pet products for a living, Mejorada embarked on a self-mandated, ongoing quest to find the optimal items for her dog. She is now delightfully devoted to helping humans discover and select the most favorable products for their pets.
We also took a comprehensive survey on preferred brands and feeding habits. Each respondent provided data on their dog's age, size, and breed, in addition to a detailed history of the dog food brands and products they mutually enjoy. We also considered recommendations from veterinarians, trainers, and rescue workers and considered features such as ingredients, flavors, cost, and package sizes.
![safari dog food safari dog food](https://www.thesprucepets.com/thmb/mRaseN8J-dGqauSi-D_x7A171R0=/200x200/filters:no_upscale():max_bytes(150000):strip_icc():format(webp)/AdrienneKruzerRVTLVT-41ee5d17efea4c9b8b5e9ac59e3f608c.jpg)
2022 Surveys & Data . Association for Pet Obesity Prevention.
Disorders of the Stomach and Intestines in Dogs . Merck Veterinary Manual.
Role of Dietary Fatty Acids in Dogs Cats . American College of Veterinary Nutrition.
Diets to Boost Immunity . Cornell University College of Veterinary Medicine.
Idowu, Olutunbi, and Kathryn Heading. Hypoglycemia in dogs: Causes, management, and diagnosis . The Canadian veterinary journal = La revue veterinaire canadienne vol. 59,6 (2018): 642-649.
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The best puppy food of 2024, according to veterinarians
![safari dog food All puppy food should meet nutritional standards set by the Association of American Feed Control Officials (AAFCO).](https://media-cldnry.s-nbcnews.com/image/upload/t_fit-560w,f_auto,q_auto:best/rockcms/2024-04/240430-puppy-food-vl-social-496bc8.jpg)
A lot of things run through your mind when you get a new puppy : what kind of dog toys you should buy, how beneficial crate training actually is and if they really need their own bed , among other critical questions. However, perhaps the most important consideration, and certainly the most timely, is the best dog food to feed your new puppy — and what you should avoid.
To help you get started, I spoke to veterinarians about how exactly puppy food differs from adult dog food, including ingredients and portion size, and how to determine which one you should feed them for the best nutritional value. I also got highly-rated, expert-backed recommendations for the best dog food to give your puppy and included options that NBC Select staff feed their own puppies.
SKIP AHEAD What’s the difference between puppy food and adult food? | How I picked the best puppy food | Best puppy food in 2024 | How to shop for puppy food
Selected. Our top picks
![safari dog food Hill's Science Diet Puppy Small Bites Dry Dog Food](https://media-cldnry.s-nbcnews.com/image/upload/t_focal-100x100,f_auto,q_auto:best/newscms/2024_16/3573074/41otfzwcl1l-sl500-633450460245e.jpg)
What’s the difference between puppy food and adult dog food?
Since younger dogs are still growing and developing, puppy-specific foods are specifically made for rapid growth. “Puppy food tends to have higher fat and protein content, which also means it is typically more calorie dense,” says Dr. Nell Ostermeier, a veterinarian and veterinary advisor at Figo Pet Insurance. Compared to adult dog food, puppy food also usually has higher levels of protein and essential nutrients like DHA, calcium and phosphorus, which all help their brain and physical development, according to our experts.
Another differentiator is that puppy food usually has a lower energy density (which is the amount of energy per unit weight of food) because if they get too much energy, they can grow too quickly and develop orthopedic problems, especially large and giant breed dogs, says Dr. Nicole Savageau, a board-certified veterinarian at The Vets , a mobile veterinary service.
Large and giant breed dogs should be on a formula that’s labeled specifically for large and giant breed puppies because they have a slight difference in mineral content and lower energy density (which is the amount of energy per unit weight of food), says Savageau. “If they get an inappropriate amount of calcium or they grow too quickly, it could lead to orthopedic problems,” she says. For giant breed puppies, it is best to consult your veterinarian about which food to choose and how long to feed it before switching to adult, says Ostermeier.
How I picked the best puppy food
One of the most important things to do when you get a new puppy is to create a mealtime routine: “Choose a schedule that is convenient for you and your family so that you can stick to the routine — if you create a routine, the puppies will follow,” says Ostermeier. When shopping for quality puppy food, our experts recommend considering the following factors:
- AAFCO nutritional standards: The most important consideration when shopping for puppy food is to ensure it meets the Association of American Feed Control Officials (AAFCO) nutritional standards. The food should have a nutritional adequacy statement on the label that says it is “complete and balanced,” which means it meets or exceeds the AAFCO standards, according to our experts and the World Small Animal Veterinary Association .
- Ingredients: The ingredients in your puppy’s food are a great way to determine palatability and how much they’ll enjoy it. Ingredients are listed on the packaging from highest to lowest weight, which means the first three are the most crucial to consider, according to AAFCO. All of the puppy food brands we list also have a dedicated team of veterinary nutritionists on staff to regulate the use of high-quality ingredients (AAFCO has safety standards for ingredients used in pet food, and it goes in depth about common pet food labels).
- Breed and size: You should feed your puppy food that’s specifically labeled for puppies until they reach their adult body weight (typically between 1-1.5 years, according to our experts). Some puppy foods are made for different sized breeds, like small, large and giant breeds, which means the size of the kibble is easier for them to ingest and the formula has different caloric and nutritional value to fit their puppy needs. All of the brands I list are high-calorie options for puppies.
- Portion size: Look for brands that provide a feeding guide on its packaging to help you determine the appropriate portions for your puppy’s weight and size. “The important thing is whatever puppy food someone chooses, the instructions for how to feed [your puppy] based on their weight will be on the bag itself,” says Savageau.
Best puppy food of 2024
Below, I compiled veterinarian-recommended dog food for puppies, as well as highly rated and NBC Select staff favorites that are in line with our experts’ guidance. All of the following puppy foods meet AAFCO nutritional requirements, have feeding guidelines on their packaging and have a team of veterinary nutritionists on staff to regulate the use of high-quality ingredients.
Best overall puppy food: Hill’s Science Diet Puppy Small Bites Dry Dog Food
![safari dog food Hill's Science Diet Puppy Small Bites Dry Dog Food](https://media-cldnry.s-nbcnews.com/image/upload/t_fit-320w,f_auto,q_auto:best/newscms/2024_16/3573074/41otfzwcl1l-sl500-633450460245e.jpg)
Hill's Science Diet Puppy Small Bites Dry Dog Food
- Source of vitamins/minerals
- Small-sized kibble
- Easy to digest
- Nothing to note at this time
Hill’s Science Diet is one of the top dog food brands among our experts for adult dogs and puppies. One of our favorite dog foods overall , this puppy-specific formula from the brand comes in small, easy-to-digest kibble, according to the brand. It has natural omega-3 fatty acids from fish oil that work to support healthy brain and eye development, and a blend of vitamin E and vitamin C to support a healthy immune system in puppies, according to Hill’s. The food comes in a 4.5-pound or 12.5-pound bag . You can also get the canned version of this puppy food, which you can mix into your dog’s kibble, our experts say.
Food type: Dry | Recommended age: Up to 1 year old | Recommended weight: Up to 120 lbs (expected adult weight) | Calorie content: 393 kcal per cup | Top ingredients: Chicken, brown rice, whole grain wheat
Best budget-friendly puppy food: IAMS Proactive Health Smart Puppy Dry Dog Food
![safari dog food IAMS Proactive Health Smart Puppy Dry Dog Food](https://media-cldnry.s-nbcnews.com/image/upload/t_fit-320w,f_auto,q_auto:best/rockcms/2024-05/AMAZON-d225e3.jpg)
IAMS Proactive Health Smart Puppy Dry Dog Food
- Good price point
- Supports brain/visual health
- Kibble size larger than others
If you’re on a budget, Iams’ dry puppy food is a highly rated option, with a 4.7-star average rating from over 5,200 reviews on Amazon. Made with chicken and whole grain, this recipe is rich in omega-3 to support mental and visual wellness in puppies, according to the brand.
Food type: Dry | Recommended age: Up to 1 year old | Recommended weight: Up to 50 lbs | Calorie content: 380 kcal per cup | Top ingredients: Chicken, chicken by-product meal, ground whole grain corn
Best wet puppy food: Purina Pro Plan Development Puppy Chicken & Rice Canned Dog Food
![safari dog food Purina Pro Plan High Protein Puppy Food Pate, Chicken and Brown Rice Entree - (12) 13 oz. Cans](https://media-cldnry.s-nbcnews.com/image/upload/t_fit-320w,f_auto,q_auto:best/newscms/2024_27/3601642/51ma59hnbbl-sl500-642dafd3c58ad.jpg)
Purina Pro Plan Puppy Food Chicken and Brown Rice Entree
- Keeps pups hydrated
- Great for all puppy sizes
- Can mix with kibble
- Lacks flavor variety
- Higher number of calories
Purina Pro Plan is another one of our experts’ favorites, and this canned chicken and rice formula is great for puppies with an expected adult weight of up to 100 pounds, according to the brand. It has essential vitamins and minerals to help keep your puppy’s coat soft and immune system healthy. You can divide the can into three or more feedings for puppies up to 6 months and two feedings from 7-12 months, according to Purina.
Food type: Wet/canned | Recommended age: Up to 1 year old | Recommended weight: 2-100 lbs (expected adult weight) | Calorie content: 475 kcal per can | Top ingredients: Chicken, liver, water, salmon, rice
Best puppy food for small breeds: Royal Canin Small Puppy Dry Dog Food
![safari dog food Royal Canin Small Puppy Dry Dog Food](https://media-cldnry.s-nbcnews.com/image/upload/t_fit-320w,f_auto,q_auto:best/rockcms/2024-05/AMAZON-df8dfe.jpg)
Royal Canin Small Puppy Dry Dog Food
- Immune system and digestion
- Crunchy texture
- Expected adult up to 22 pounds
Royal Canin is a favorite among the veterinarians I spoke to, as well as NBC Select staff. I fed my now 6-year-old havanese and bichon frise mix Bella this formula when she was a puppy after it was recommended to me by her vet. I still feed her the adult small breed version of Royal Canin’s dog food — it’s the only kibble that she doesn’t get bored of, and it’s one I constantly come back to whenever I switch it up. Made for dogs up to 22 pounds, the crunchy kibble is bite-sized for small breed puppies and has omega-3 fatty acids and vitamins C and E to support healthy growth and energy levels.
Food type: Dry | Recommended age: 2-10 months | Recommended weight: 9-22 lbs (expected adult weight) | Calorie content: 349 kcal per cup | Top ingredients: Chicken by-product meal, brewers rice, chicken fat, wheat gluten, corn
Best puppy food for large breeds: Purina Pro Plan Large Breed Dry Puppy Food
![safari dog food Purina Pro Plan Large Breed Dry Puppy Food](https://media-cldnry.s-nbcnews.com/image/upload/t_fit-320w,f_auto,q_auto:best/rockcms/2024-05/AMAZON-cda370.jpg)
Purina Pro Plan Large Breed Dry Puppy Food
- Made for large breeds
- Good for sensitive stomachs
Purina Pro Plan is vet-recommended for its wide range of puppy-centered formulas that cater to specific needs, like those of toy breeds or dogs with sensitive skin and stomachs. The large breed formula, made for dogs that’ll reach over 50 pounds at maturity, helps maintain a healthy development rate, and contains fish oil for brain and visual development, according to the brand.
Food type: Dry | Recommended age: Up to 2 years old | Expected adult weight: Over 50 lbs | Calorie content: 419 kcal per cup | Top ingredients: Chicken, rice, corn gluten meal, whole grain corn
Best puppy food for giant breeds: Royal Canin Size Health Nutrition Giant Puppy Dry Dog Food
![safari dog food Royal Canin Giant Puppy Dry Dog Food](https://media-cldnry.s-nbcnews.com/image/upload/t_fit-320w,f_auto,q_auto:best/rockcms/2024-05/AMAZON-65357a.jpg)
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Royal Canin Giant Puppy Dry Dog Food
- Made for giant breeds
- Good ratio nutrients/minerals
- Own formula for older puppies
- Higher price point
Giant dog breeds, such as great danes or saint bernards, will have an adult weight of 100 pounds or over, according to our experts. They need a certain ratio of nutrients and minerals so they don’t grow too quickly (if they do, it could lead to an array of orthopedic problems later in life, according to the vets I spoke to). Royal Canin’s giant breed-specific puppy formula is made for extra-large breed puppies up to 8 months old — once they reach this age, you can switch to Royal Canin Giant Junior formula, which helps support your pup’s muscle development up to 24 months old, according to the brand.
Food type: Dry | Recommended age: 2-8 months | Recommended weight: Over 100 lbs (expected adult weight) | Calorie content: 338 kcal per cup | Top ingredients: Chicken by-product meal, brewers rice, wheat gluten
Best subscription puppy food: The Farmer’s Dog Subscription Dog Food
![safari dog food The Farmer's Dog](https://media-cldnry.s-nbcnews.com/image/upload/t_fit-320w,f_auto,q_auto:best/newscms/2024_27/3393782/screen_shot_2020-04-22_at_12-42-29_pm_6f20c736d382a281481a96463de3aafe-fit-260w.jpg)
The Farmer's Dog
Price reflects first box discount for new customers.
- Subscription plan
- Personalized plan
- Ready-to-eat meals
- May need to ease into new diet
The Farmer’s Dog is a subscription dog food service that delivers food for both growing puppies and adult dogs right to your door. Each prepared meal delivery comes with the exact portions your pup needs based on their age, weight breed, activity level and build — you simply fill out a questionnaire before placing your order, and the brand calculates the plan that fits your dog’s calorie and nutritional needs.
NBC Select social commerce editor Sadhana Daruvuri has fed The Farmer’s Dog to her 2-year-old maltipoo Bandit since he was 6 months old. “My dog Bandit has been a picky eater since the day I brought him home — he would sometimes struggle with the kibble I fed him,” says Daruvuri. “As soon as we switched to Farmer’s Dog, I saw a huge change; Bandit would get excited for mealtime and finish all his food in less than a minute.”
All of The Farmer’s Dog’s ready-to-eat meals are developed and reviewed by board-certified veterinary nutritionists to be complete and balanced according to AAFCO standards, according to the brand. You can store the food in the fridge or freezer, and serve it directly from the fridge (or add a touch of hot water if your pup prefers warm food). Plans start at about $2 per day (with free shipping), and you’ll get about one week to two months of food with each delivery.
Food type: Fresh | Recommended age: n/a (based on questionnaire) | Recommended weight: n/a (based on questionnaire) | Calorie content: n/a (based on questionnaire) | Top ingredients: Human-grade (based on questionnaire)
Best fresh puppy food: Just Food for Dogs Puppy Variety Pack
![safari dog food Just Food for Dogs Puppy Variety Pack](https://media-cldnry.s-nbcnews.com/image/upload/t_fit-320w,f_auto,q_auto:best/rockcms/2024-05/DIFFBOT-e29b5e.jpg)
Just Food for Dogs Puppy Variety Pack
- Pre-cooked ingredients
- Last 18 months in freezer
- Can autoship
“Fresh, gently cooked diets that are nutritionally balanced are just as they sound — they are whole food based and gently cooked,” says Ostermeier. Just Food for Dogs comes recommended by her for growing puppies (as well as pregnant and lactating dogs, according to the brand). The meals are made for all life stages, and they include a feeding guide on the packaging so you know how much to feed your puppy or adult dog. They last up to 18 months in the freezer, and thawed meals stay fresh when sealed in the original package for up to seven days, according to the brand. Once you open the pouch, the brand recommends using it within five days.
Food type: Fresh | Recommended age: All life stages | Recommended weight: Up to 60 lbs | Calorie content: n/a | Top ingredients: Chicken thighs, long-grain white rice, spinach, carrots
Best no-frills puppy food: Nutro Natural Choice Puppy Dry Dog Food
![safari dog food Nutro Natural Choice Puppy Dry Dog Food](https://media-cldnry.s-nbcnews.com/image/upload/t_fit-320w,f_auto,q_auto:best/rockcms/2024-05/AMAZON-5bdb8a.jpg)
Nutro Natural Choice Puppy Dry Dog Food
- Supports healthy coat/skin
- Kibble is larger than others
Nutro Natural Choice is a favorite of NBC Select editor Jordan Bowman ’s 2-year-old mixed pointer Obi. “This is the food he always ate, and it’s helped him be more comfortable in a new home,” he says. The high-protein recipe helps support a healthy coat, skin and bones, and it helps puppies develop a healthy digestion and immune system, according to the brand.
Food type: Dry | Recommended age: Up to 1 year old | Recommended weight: Up to 60 lbs | Calorie content: 386 kcal per cup | Top ingredients: Chicken, chicken meal, brewers rice, whole grain barley, whole grain brown rice
Best high-protein puppy food: Open Farm Ancient Grains High-Protein Puppy Food
![safari dog food Open Farm Ancient Grains High-Protein Puppy Food](https://media-cldnry.s-nbcnews.com/image/upload/t_fit-320w,f_auto,q_auto:best/rockcms/2024-05/DIFFBOT-7bc009.png)
Open Farm Ancient Grains High-Protein Puppy Food
- Good source of protein
- Vet nutritionists on staff
- Can be autoshipped
Open Farm comes recommended by Ostermeier for its fresh ingredients and high-protein formula. This option has a blend of fresh chicken, salmon and pork, which helps support healthy brain development, and ancient grains like steel-cut oats, millet, brown rice, quinoa and chia seeds, according to the brand. Open Farm’s dog food meets AAFCO’s nutritional standards and the brand has a team of veterinary nutritionists to formulate its dog food, according to Open Farm.
Food type: Dry | Recommended age: Up to 1 year old (small breed puppies), up to 2 years old (large breed puppies) | Recommended weight: Up to 100 lbs (expected adult weight) | Calorie content: n/a | Top ingredients: Chicken, whitefish meal, oats, salmon, millet, brown rice
Best tasting puppy food: Blue Buffalo Life Protection Formula Puppy Chicken & Brown Rice Dry Dog Food
![safari dog food Blue Buffalo Life Protection Formula Puppy Chicken & Brown Rice Dry Dog Food](https://media-cldnry.s-nbcnews.com/image/upload/t_fit-320w,f_auto,q_auto:best/rockcms/2024-05/AMAZON-552715.jpg)
Blue Buffalo Life Protection Formula Puppy Chicken & Brown Rice Dry Dog Food
- Supports immune system
- Doesn’t irritate stomach
Daruvuri housed her sister’s now 1-year-old cavapoo Joey for two months when he was a puppy, and fed him this Blue Buffalo kibble because her own dog Bandit used to eat it and never had any stomach issues. “Joey absolutely loved the taste of the kibble — it would always be gone about 10 seconds after I put down his bowl — so much so that I would also use it as an occasional training treat,” she says. Packed with vitamins, antioxidants and minerals like calcium and phosphorus, this formula helps support your puppy’s immune system health and comes in easy-to-eat puppy-sized kibble, according to the brand.
Food type: Dry | Recommended age: Up to 1 year old | Recommended weight: Up to 60 lbs | Calorie content: 401 kcal per cup | Top ingredients: Deboned chicken, chicken meal, brown rice
Best puppy food for sensitive stomachs: Hill’s Prescription Diet i/d Digestive Care Dry Dog Food
![safari dog food Hill’s Prescription Diet i/d Digestive Care Dry Adult & Puppy Dog Food](https://media-cldnry.s-nbcnews.com/image/upload/t_fit-320w,f_auto,q_auto:best/rockcms/2024-05/AMAZON-78f0b9.jpg)
Hill’s Prescription Diet i/d Digestive Care Dry Adult & Puppy Dog Food
- Regulates gut bacteria
- Helps digestive issues
- Regulates bowel movement
- Needs vet approval
If your pup struggles with a sensitive stomach, this Hill’s prescription diet has a proprietary blend of ingredients, which the brand calls ActiveBiome+, to help regulate gut bacteria , as well as a prebiotic blend to help maintain regular bowel movements, according to Hill’s. It also has vitamin B and antioxidants to help replenish nutrients that were lost during their digestive issues, according to the brand. Keep in mind that you’ll need your veterinarian’s approval to purchase this food — you can request this prescription diet through Chewy’s site by providing your pet and vet clinic’s information.
Food type: Dry | Recommended age: All life stages | Recommended weight: Up to 120 lbs | Calorie content: 367 kcal per cup | Top ingredients: Brewers rice, whole grain corn, chicken meal, pea protein
How to shop for puppy food
When shopping for the best puppy food, start by asking your vet for their top choices, then reach out to trusted groomers and dog trainers. Generally, there are a few factors to consider when shopping for the right food for your puppy, including your dog’s size and breed, whether it meets AAFCO requirements, palatability and ingredients.
Meets AAFCO requirements
Dog food for all ages should meet AAFCO nutritional standards, meaning the food is nutritionally complete. AAFCO is a voluntary membership association of feed control officials that develop standards, definitions and policies for the sale and distribution of pet food, among other animal feeds. You should always look for the nutritional adequacy statement on the back label, which should include in small font the phrase “complete and balanced” to ensure it’s intended to make up your pup’s sole diet, according to our experts.
Keep in mind that AAFCO doesn’t regulate, test, approve or certify pet food, so there’s no such thing as an “AAFCO approved” brand or product.
Ingredients and palatability
“The food should be balanced for puppies (growth) or all life stages, which are foods that are considered supportive for puppyhood and adult maintenance,” says Ostermeier. Essential ingredients to look for in puppy food include proteins (like chicken, beef or fish), whole grains and vegetables, which provide the necessary nutrients for a growing puppy, says Dr. Abel Gonzalez, a veterinarian and the clinical director at Dutch , a pet telehealth company.
You should always ensure the puppy food brand employs veterinary nutritionists that develop nutritionally balanced and complete meals and regulate the food’s ingredients, according to our experts. (AAFCO has safety standards for ingredients used in pet food, and it goes in depth about common pet food labels.)
There are also a few ingredients to avoid: “Stay away from foods with excessive fillers (like corn and soy), artificial colors, flavors, or preservatives, which offer little nutritional value,” says Gonzalez.
Nutritional balance and portion size
Make sure to check the food’s packaging for specific feeding guidelines and energy density, shown as kcal (calories) per cup, can or ounce, which are similar to the nutritional facts on human foods. This makes sure you’re giving your puppy the appropriate nutrients and portions for their growth and development, according to our experts.
“Every brand is going to be slightly different with the calorie density and how much they recommend feeding the puppy,” says Savageau. “Whether you’re feeding your puppy three times a day or twice a day as they’re getting older, make sure the total amount they’re being fed matches what their total calories should be for the day based on the individual bag.”
Breed size and weight
Make sure the food’s label clearly states that it is made specifically for puppies or for all life stages, according to our experts. Breed- and size-specific formulas are great for large and giant breeds because they need a specific ratio of nutrients and minerals to prevent them from growing too quickly, says Savageau. (I go more in-depth about the benefits of puppy-specific formulas and what to feed large and giant breeds below).
Frequently asked questions
How many times you feed your puppy throughout the day depends on their age. During the early phase of puppyhood, around 6 to 12 weeks of age, you should feed them at least three times per day, which helps maintain their energy levels and supports their fast metabolism, says Savageau. Once they’re 4-6 months old, you can transition to twice a day, she says. Large and giant breed puppies should get three meals per day until they’re about 6 months old, says Savageau.
However, due to their rapid growth during this time of life, your puppy may still be hungry after feeding them those 2-3 meals per day — this is especially true for puppies under 6 months of age whose growth and metabolism rates can vary day to day, says Ostermeier.
“If you feed your puppy their allotted meal portion and they still seem hungry, it is ok to give them extra food or an extra meal,” says Ostermeier. Signs that your puppy is still hungry could include sniffing or searching for food, crying or whining, pawing at you or trying to get your attention.
It’s best to check in with your veterinarian about the exact feeding amount or calories per day that you should be giving your puppy, says Ostermeier. If you’re feeding them a puppy-specific formula, you can follow the guidelines recommended by the dog food company. Most commercial puppy food has feeding guidelines based on weight on the back label or on the brand’s website, according to our experts.
Most importantly, puppies can easily become hypoglycemic if they aren’t receiving enough food.
“The main reason we want to feed more frequently when they’re younger is because they can become hypoglycemic quicker, so they’re blood glucose level can drop,” says Savageau.
If your puppy ever appears weak or “drunk,” this could be a sign of hypoglycemia and you’ll need to feed them as soon as possible and call your veterinarian, says Ostermeier.
Switching from a puppy-specific diet to adult dog food depends on your dog’s breed and size. “The appropriate time to change to adult food is generally anywhere from 6 months to 14 months,” says Ostermeier.
Large to giant breed dogs should usually take longer to transition so they don’t grow as quickly. They typically need to switch after 1 year and even up to 2 years for giant breeds, says Savageau. Since that’s a wide range, all of our experts recommend consulting with your veterinarian on when it is best to switch your dog to adult food, especially for giant breeds.
Dry food is more economical and typically more stable if stored in a cool, dry environment compared to wet food , which goes bad at room temperature after opening, according to our experts. But the main difference between dry kibble and canned dog food comes down to water content: Kibble is typically made up of 10% water, while canned food has upwards of 70% water, experts told us in our guide to dog food .
All of our experts suggest combining your puppy’s dry food with their canned wet food or other moisture-rich foods, especially if they’re picky eaters or need an extra boost of hydration.
“Feeding a combination diet that includes moist options such as fresh, gently cooked food or a quality canned food increases the moisture of the diet and aids in hydrating the animal,” says Ostermeier. This includes adding fresh, dog-safe vegetables and fruits to their meals to add nutritional value without adding the calories as long as they’re still getting their normal kibble (more about toppers below). “Moist foods, especially fresh or gently cooked options, are [also] very minimally processed,” says Ostermeier.
Ostermeier doesn’t recommend feeding your pup 100% dry kibble meals. “Dry kibble was created to provide convenient, balanced meals for dogs. TV dinners were created to do that same thing for humans,” she says. “In my opinion, processed food as part of the diet is okay, but it doesn’t make sense for any living being to eat processed food all the time because it just isn’t the healthiest option.”
While most puppies don’t need supplements if they’re on a balanced diet, underweight puppies or those with health conditions might require them, according to Gonzalez. Morgan recommends adding organic toppers like pumpkin, eggs or blueberries to your pup's kibble. “These toppers boost the immune system and provide fresh vitamins, [but] should not make up more than about 15% of the meal,” she says.
You can also consider adding a probiotic supplement to boost your pup’s gut health. “They will be going through the stress of weaning, moving to a new environment and having a new ‘pack’ of family members,” says Morgan. “Good gut health helps them navigate this stress more easily and helps avoid bouts of [gastrointestinal] upset.”
All of our experts advise against feeding your puppy a raw diet. “Raw diets can be risky for puppies due to potential bacteria and nutritional imbalances,” says Gonzalez. Just like humans, the potential for contamination puts dogs at a greater risk of getting bacterial infections like salmonella or E. coli, and especially puppies who have a weaker immune system, according to Savageau. Also, because harmful parasites and bacteria can contaminate raw diets, your dog may transmit them to you and your family, too, she says.
No, a grain-free diet (which means the dog food is made without wheat, rye, corn and barley) is not better for your puppy. Unless your puppy has a gluten intolerance, or a grain-free diet is specifically recommended by their veterinarian, it’s not necessary to give your puppy grain-free food, according to our experts.
In fact, grain-free diets are commonly associated with certain heart diseases if not carefully balanced, so you’ll need to discuss any diet change with a vet, says Savageau. Feeding your pup grain-free kibble can sometimes prevent them from getting their appropriate daily nutritional intake, experts say.
It is very rare that puppies have food allergies — in fact, allergies in dogs typically develop over time due to prolonged exposure to certain ingredients, especially proteins like chicken and beef, says Savageau. “Dog owners will often say, ‘Well, I’ve been feeding him the same diet his whole life, there’s no way he could be reacting to it’ — well that’s the exact reason why he could be reacting to it,” she says.
The most typical signs of an allergy for dogs of all life stages include constantly itching, licking their paws and getting ear infections, says Savageau. However, these signs are more likely due to environmental allergies than food reactions, says Savageau. Even gastrointestinal issues like diarrhea in puppies are more likely to be due to other factors (like parasites) than related to their diet, says Savageau.
Meet our experts
At NBC Select, we work with experts who have specialized knowledge and authority based on relevant training and/or experience. We also take steps to ensure all expert advice and recommendations are made independently and without undisclosed financial conflicts of interest.
- Dr. Nell Ostermeier is a veterinarian and veterinary advisor at Figo Pet Insurance.
- Dr. Nicole Savageau is a board-certified veterinarian at The Vets , a mobile veterinary service.
- Dr. Abel Gonzalez is a veterinarian and the clinical director at Dutch , a pet telehealth company.
Why trust NBC Select?
I am an updates editor at NBC Select who covers a variety of pet topics, including dog food , beds , treats and toys . For this article, I spoke to three veterinarians about the best dog food brands for your puppy and what you need to know when shopping for one. She also compiled their recommendations for the best puppy food brands to consider and researched dozens of options on the market based on expert guidance.
Catch up on NBC Select’s in-depth coverage of personal finance , tech and tools , wellness and more, and follow us on Facebook , Instagram , Twitter and TikTok to stay up to date.
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Mili Godio is an updates editor for Select on NBC News.
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Simply Nourish ® Original Adult Wet Dog Food - 10 Oz., Stew
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Pet parents want their furry friends to have food that nourishes them and gives them the nutrients they need to live a happy, healthy life. PetSmart is proud to highlight Simply Nourish™ as one of our featured brands. Simply Nourish™ pet food for dogs and cats comes in many different flavors and varieties. Simply Nourish™ dog food is made with high-quality proteins, digestible carbohydrates, fresh fruits and vegetables and essential nutrients. Simply Nourish™ cat food is made with carefully sourced ingredients such as deboned meat and fish, a great source of protein, minerals and fatty acids. Shop our collection of Simply Nourish™ pet food for dogs and cats at every age and stage of life.
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Revitalize Your Pet’s Health
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Your furry friend deserves optimal health
BARF®, or Biologically Appropriate Raw Food, is the diet nature intended for our pets to not just survive but thrive. All of our diets are complete and carefully balanced; a proprietary blend of muscle meat, organs, bone-connector tissue, finely ground bone, fruits, veggies, vitamins and minerals.
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Biologically Appropriate Raw Food
The BARF® diet is a safe, effective, and holistic approach to reverse common health problems in pets.
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Raw meat pet food offers living enzymes your dog needs for a lifetime of health, while processed choices are full of toxins and chemicals. BARF ® pet food combines evolutionary science and recent studies to deliver vitamins, minerals, and more to your dog.
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“Before we switched to the BARF® diet, my 6-year old dog was lacking energy and had a few health issues. I can’t believe the difference it’s made in my dog’s overall health and energy!”
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Safari by Coastal is one of the highest recognized grooming brands for pets. From bathing, to shedding to adding shine, we offer the tools you need to be confident enough to groom your pets like the pros.
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Safari® by Coastal® Double-Sided Flea Comb
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Safari® by Coastal® Dog Single Row Undercoat Rake
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Safari® by Coastal® Dog Double Row Undercoat Rake with Rotating Pins
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Safari® by Coastal® Cat Deluxe Nail Trimmer
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Safari® by Coastal® Dog Single Row Undercoat Rake with Rotating Pins
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Safari® by Coastal® Dog Flea Combs with Wooden Handle
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Safari® by Coastal® Comfort Grip Curry Brush for Dogs
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Safari® by Coastal® Bristle Cat Brush with Bamboo Handle
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Safari® by Coastal® Guillotine Dog Nail Trimmer
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Safari® by Coastal® Cat Flexible Slicker Brush
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Safari® by Coastal® Nylon Coated Tip Dog Brush for Shorthaired Breeds
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Safari® by Coastal® Shed Magic® De-Shedding Tool for Cats with Short to Medium Hair
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Safari® by Coastal® Cat Shedding Comb
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Safari® by Coastal® Shedding Dog Comb with Rotating Teeth
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Safari® by Coastal® Cat Flea Comb
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Safari® by Coastal® Dog Massage Brush
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Safari® by Coastal® Dog Soft Slicker Brush
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Safari® by Coastal® Dog Nail Trimmer
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Safari® by Coastal® Dog Deluxe Nail Trimmer
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Be confident and capable when grooming your pet. Ergonomic handles, self-cleaning bristles and basic tutorials are within your reach with Safari by Coastal.
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About Pet Safari
Pet Safari is a family-owned Pet Store located in Clearwater, Largo area.
Since we opened our doors in 1991, Pet Safari has grown from a grooming salon into a full line pet store. We are known for reliability, friendly customer service, and high-quality products. We carry a broad range of pet supplies and feature in-store grooming for cats and dogs.
Linda and Steve are proud of their youngest son, partner, and manager, David. He has a deep commitment to our customers and employees and regards them as part of our extended family. David has a beautiful wife, Roxanne, and two wonderful children, Brittany and Joey.
The most important aspect of our business is our customers. We work every day to keep our commitment to excellent service and appreciation while maintaining a family business.
Whether it’s choosing your first puppy or buying a goldfish, step into Pet Safari and experience a family owned pet store.
Business Hours
- Monday 8:00 am – 7:00 pm
- Tuesday 8:00 am – 7:00 pm
- Wednesday 8:00 am – 7:00 pm
- Thursday 8:00 am – 7:00 pm
- Friday 8:00 am – 6:00 pm
- Saturday 8:00 am – 6:00 pm
- Sunday 10:00 am – 2:00 pm
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Full-Service Pet Grooming
Our pet grooming area is private and offers your pet a peaceful location that calms them before grooming. We have dedicated pet grooming specialists ready to groom your dog or cat.
![safari dog food Dog Groomer](https://petsafari.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/dog-groomer.jpg)
More About Our Pet Store
At Pet Safari in Clearwater, FL, we stock all of the top-quality pet food brands available today. Our family owned and operated pet shop is packed with accessories and toys needed to keep your pet happy and healthy!
Whether you’re looking for the latest leash, fish tank, pet bowl, pump, or pet bed, Pet Safari has you covered.
We even have exotic reptiles!
Recent Posts
Family pet store, wolf hybred, diatomaceous earth, social media.
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Review: Safari Dog Nail Trimmer
I f you don't clip your pet's nails, it can cause him a lot of pain. If you're unable to bring him to the groomers, you'll need to invest in a quality pair of dog nail trimmers (like these Safari Dog Nail Clippers ) and do it yourself.
![Coastal Pet - Safari - Professional Dog Nail Trimmer - Pet Nail Clippers for Large Dogs - Safety Stop & Non-Slip Grip - Large - 6.6" x 2" Coastal Pet - Safari - Professional Dog Nail Trimmer - Pet Nail Clippers for Large Dogs - Safety Stop & Non-Slip Grip - Large - 6.6" x 2"](https://m.media-amazon.com/images/I/31LPYUIhmrL._SL500_.jpg)
Until they look like Dremel, these are called traditional pet nail clippers. Tools like the Safari Professional Nail Trimmer are the most popular type of dog nail clippers pet owners, and groomers alike choose to use.
Why are these the most popular pet nail clippers for dogs?
Mostly, it's because they're simple to use, don't cost a fortune, and are more reliable than electronic devices.
This specific set of Safari dog nail clippers works like scissors, easily clipping off the tip of your pet's nail. They are easy to use and work very quickly to do the job if you know what you're doing.
Don't get me wrong, however: beginners can use these dog nail trimmers too. It will take you longer at first, but with a bit of practice, you'll be able to clip all your pup's nails in just a few short minutes.
To compare, take a look at my Dremel Pet Nail Trimmer review (battery-powered device).
When using the traditional set of pet nail clippers, remember not to rush your dog. You'll need to gradually get him used to having his nails clipped. Start by trimming his nails one at a time. The more comfortable he gets, the more nails you can trim at once. Eventually, you'll be able to clip all his nails in one sitting.
READ MORE: Dog Grooming Supplies 101 – The Ultimate Buyers’ Guide
Safari Dog Nail Trimmer Review
![Safari Dog Nail Clipper Review Safari Dog Nail Clipper Review](https://topdogtips.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/09/Safari-Dog-Nail-Clipper-Review.jpg)
Safari Dog Nail Trimmers feature a stainless steel head and blades . This is a necessity when buying nail clippers for dogs. Stainless steel blades are more durable, they are easier to clean, and they won’t rust.
Another necessary feature is the spring-loaded handle. When you squeeze the handle, spring-loaded trimmers will pop open by themselves. Not all scissor-style dog nail clippers have this, but it allows you to clip your pet's nails faster and reduces hand fatigue.
In my video Safari review above, I address the importance of a safety guard when purchasing pet nail clippers for your canine. You can see that the guard on the Safari Dog Nail Trimmers is just a thin piece of steel that slides back and forth in front of the blades.
This guard ensures that you won’t stick your dog’s toenail too far through the blades. Just remember that a guard doesn’t guarantee that you won’t clip the nail too short , but it does make it less likely. You still have to be careful with trimming his nails, though.
Another safety feature that you’ll find on the Safari Dog Nail Trimmers is the locking mechanism. It slides down to keep the blades from opening. This feature keeps you from getting accidentally injured and also protects the blades when they are not in use.
COMPARISON: Dremel vs. Safari vs. Epica: What are the Best Dog Nail Clippers?
![Safari Dog Nail Trimmers Safari Dog Nail Trimmers](https://topdogtips.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/07/Dog-Nail-Clipper-Comparison-3.jpg)
In my video review, you'll see that I ordered the trimmers for small dogs. These cost about $8 on Amazon , but you can also order these clippers in a large size for $10.52. I also explain in my video the importance of selecting the right size clippers for your dog.
If you have a small dog, using a pair of clippers intended for a large dog is not a good idea.
You're more likely to take off too much of the nail and clip the quick by using a trimmer that is too big. Likewise, small clippers won't easily slice through the nail of a large breed. This can cause your dog pain, and it will make the process of cutting your dog's nails take a lot longer.
I like that these Safari Dog Nail Trimmers are lightweight. I only have one small breed dog, but if you had multiple dogs or you work with pets professionally this will be a huge advantage, this set is one of the best dog nail clippers overall .
You'll also notice that these clippers have a rubber hand grip. This is a common feature on a lot of similar products. It reduces hand fatigue and keeps your fingers from slipping while you're grooming your dog.
How to Cut Dog’s Nails?
If you're new to trimming your dog's nails, there are a few things that you need to know before you begin. I’ve made a helpful video to show you how to cut a dog’s nails , where I share tips and tricks for successful dog nail trimming and explain a few of the different types of dog nail clippers and trimmers that are available.
FULL GUIDE: How To Cut Dog’s Nails 101 – A Step-by-Step Video
Summary of the Safari Dog Nail Trimmers Review
![Coastal Pet - Safari - Professional Dog Nail Trimmer - Pet Nail Clippers for Large Dogs - Safety Stop & Non-Slip Grip - Large - 6.6" x 2" Coastal Pet - Safari - Professional Dog Nail Trimmer - Pet Nail Clippers for Large Dogs - Safety Stop & Non-Slip Grip - Large - 6.6" x 2"](https://m.media-amazon.com/images/I/41EIwNyKSBL._SL500_.jpg)
- Stainless steel head and blades
- Spring-loaded handle reduces hand fatigue
- Equipped with a safety guard and a locking mechanism for safety and to protect the blades when not in use
- Lightweight
- Be sure to choose the right size for your dog, or you could risk injuring him
- A very small size is not ideal for dog owners with large hands
- Some consumers complained that the blade on the trimmers they received was not sharp enough, but as you can see in my video review, I had no trouble at all.
Now it’s your turn to review Safari Dog Nail Trimmers
Are these the nail trimmers you use for your dog? Have you tried them in the past but were disappointed? I'd love to hear your personal opinion. Feel free to share your experience in the comments below. You can also share your picture and video reviews on our Facebook page !
Disclosure : We may earn affiliate commissions at no cost to you from the links on this page. This did not affect our assessment of products. Read more here and find full disclosure here .
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Amount of fresh food to feed your dog
![safari dog food](https://www.safaridoodles.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/02/IMG_9707.jpg)
??? Doing a fresh cooked or raw food diet can feel overwhelming. We want to be sure our dogs get all the vitamins and nutrients their body needs. I’ve used the following 3 supplements on my dogs for many years with fantastic results. This reduces my anxiety of attempting to feed my dogs a balanced diet each day/week. To learn more about feeding a fresh food diet to your dog, check out more of our articles here in our Safari Doodles Education blog
1️⃣ I highly suggest you feed the NuVet Plus vitamin. This covers many nutrients your dog needs that might not be covered when making your dog a fresh diet.
2️⃣ We all need fish oil. Grizzly Salmon oil 3-4 days a week is an easy option. This fish oil covers DHA/Omega 3. This is a very popular brand amongst holistic vets. Feeding too much fish oil is toxic. Limiting your dog to the suggested dose 3-4 days a week is best. A second alternative is to feed sardines. 1oz per 20 lbs of body weight. I feed no salt added Sardines in water .
3️⃣ 3 days a week take iodine or kelp. Getting iodine can be tricky. Limit this supplement to just 3 days a week to avoid overdose. Many humans & dogs are deficient in Iodine. This liquid Mary Ruth’s Liquid Iodine was recommended by a human holistic pediatrics doctor. It is also great for pets! Using the liquid helps when dosing small dogs. For a natural Whole Food option, feed this Kelp Seaweed
Feeding a fresh food diet means your dog gets more water per bite than when feeding only dry dog food. This green chart is for a dog eating a Prey Model fresh food diet. The grey chart is a veggie added diet. Both diets can be done raw or cooked. Do not feed any cooked bone. The percentage of meat should be close to:
? Prey Model Diet A) 80% muscle meat/ the meat should have 8-10% fat (careful not to feed high fat to most adults). Growing puppies should have 10%-20% fat.
B) 10% organ meat (5% liver/5% other)
C) 10% Soft whole raw bone (like chicken wings) or Ground Bone. Increase bone content to 20% for growing puppies and reduce meat to 70%. Raw bone has the perfect ratio of calcium to phosphorus.
The “prey model” diet is only meat, organs and soft bones or ground bones. This is a complete diet if a dog gets fatty fish or fish oil 3 days a week and eggs 3-7 days a week. Texas Tripe is a raw pre-made dog food supplier with a prey model diet blend. Prey Model diet is suggested diet for any dog with allergies or gut issues. Texas Tripe makes great raw blends that are cost effective.
Veggies + Protein Diet ? For a cooked diet or raw that includes veggies, the percentages are:
?60-80% meat ?20-40% veggies/fruit/grain.
? A puppy who eats veggies should have 60% muscle meat, 20% edible bones (or ground bone), 10% organs (5% liver, 5% other), 10% Veggies/fruit/grains. Puppies need higher bone content than adults. For puppies on prey model (see green chart), take away the 10% veggies and increase the muscle meat by 10%. This equals 70% meat / 20% bone /10% organs.
?As an example, an older dog can reduce the amount of ground bones/ soft edible bones to 5-10% of the diet and increase veggies or lean meat. An example is 65% lean meat (with 10% max fat), 5% bone, 10% organ, 20% veggie/fruit/grains. Adult dogs calorie and calcium needs are less than a growing puppy.
⭐️⭐️ On a calculator, type in your dog’s weight. Then look at the list below and enter the percentage based on your dog’s age. Next multiple your dog’s weight by this percentage. Hit the equal sign. This amount is how many pounds your dog needs to eat per day.
Example of how to calculate:
Dog’s Weight = 50 lbs Age of dog, 2 years, means he eats= 3% On a calculator 50 x 3 then hit the “percent button” % = 1.5 pounds of food / per day
Dogs Weight = 50 lbs Age of dog, 2 years= 3% On a calculator 50 x 0.03 = 1.5 pounds of food / per day
![safari dog food](https://www.safaridoodles.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/02/img_9422.jpg)
? ⚖️?? A large breed puppy who is 12 lbs at 8 weeks old needs 1.2 lbs of food per day, divided up into 3-4 meals per day.
When that puppy is 3 months and 20 lbs he eats 2 lbs a day
At 4 months and 40 lbs he eats 3.2 lbs a day.
At 7 months and 60 lbs he eats 3.6 lbs a day.
At 9 months and 70 lbs he eats 2.8 lbs a day
He needs to continue eating 3%-4% of his body weight until he’s 18+ months old. At that point he can drop to 2%-3% of his body weight.
Notice that a puppy who is 3 months old & who weighs 15 lbs gets 10% of his body weight per day. That also equals 1.5 lbs of food. That is the same amount the 50 lbs grown adult eats.
? Every dog is unique. Some have a fast metabolism and highly active. Those dogs need the highest percentage of food for their body weight/age. Some dogs are lower energy or have a breed type who easily carry a healthy amount of body fat. For those dogs, feeding the lower end percentage is ideal. It is imperative that your dog eats the amount of food that keeps him at an ideal body weight. Don’t over feed and have a chubby dog!
A dog with too much body fat will be less healthy long term than a dog in a more fit body weight. The key is that you can EASILY feel his ribs, but there is also a little bit of fat covering the ribs.
![safari dog food](https://www.safaridoodles.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/02/img_9423.jpg)
??? Doing a fresh cooked or raw food diet can feel overwhelming. We want to be sure our dogs get all the vitamins and nutrients their body needs. I’ve used the following 3 supplements on my dogs for many years with fantastic results. This reduces my anxiety of attempting to feed my dogs a balanced diet each day/week.
1️⃣ I highly suggest you feed the NuVet Plus vitamin . This covers many nutrients your dog needs that might not be covered when making your dog a fresh diet.
2️⃣ I suggest you feed Grizzly Salmon oil 3-4 days a week. This fish oil covers DHA/omega 3. This is a very popular brand amongst holistic vets.
3️⃣ I suggest you supplement 3 days a week with iodine. Getting iodine can be tricky and most humans & dogs are deficient. This brand was recommended by a human holistic pediatrics doctor. It is also great for pets! Use the liquid for small dogs. The pills are easy for large dogs.
Mary Ruth’s Liquid Iodine
I odine pills from kelp/seaweed
K elp Seaweed
Author: Alicia of Safari Doodles has fed raw/cooked food to her dogs her whole life. She comes from generations of fresh food feeders. Join the Facebook group: Texas Doodle Education to learn more ways to keep your dog healthy.
To learn more about feeding a fresh food diet to your dog, check out more of our articles here in our Safari Doodles Education blog
Safari Doodles is a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for sites to earn advertising fees by advertising and linking to Amazon.com.
Safari Dog Ranch
Recipes – fresh food diets for dogs.
Written by:
These are meals we rotate at the Safari Dogs Ranch. The key to feeding raw/cooked is variety each week. An adult dog doesn’t need a “Balanced meal” every day. Dogs thrive with a variety of foods to meet their nutritional needs over the course of a week. To learn more about feeding a fresh food diet to your dog, check out more of our articles here in our Safari Dogs Ranch Education page
![safari dog food](https://www.safaridoodles.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/02/img_9419.jpg)
- Dr Harvey’s Raw Vibrance “base” (just add meat & oil). This is the green mix. It covers everything your dog needs after the meat & fish oil. A dog needs either veggies – or- bones / bone meal for fiber & nutrition
- Raw ground Beef
- Sardines . 1 Oz per 20/lbs body weight. Low sodium is a must!
- Beef Liver. 10-20% of the meat can be any organ meat. 5-10% is the minimum organ meat a dog needs.
- Octopus – fresh cooked from Costco
![safari dog food](https://www.safaridoodles.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/06/img_6345-1-scaled.jpg)
Types of Meat we Feed the Dogs
![safari dog food](https://safaridogs.wordpress.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/img_0592.jpg?w=493)
Author: Alicia of Safari Dogs has fed raw/cooked food to her dogs her whole life. She comes from generations of fresh food feeders.
To learn more about feeding a fresh food diet to your dog, check out more of our articles here in our Safari Dogs Ranch Education page
- For more reading on feeding a fresh food diet!
- Holistic Guide for a Healthy Dog: by Wendy Volhard . Info on how to best cook for your dog, a holistic approach to vaccines, Chinese medicine and more!
- Dr Becker’s Real Food For Dogs: by Dr Karen Becker . A detailed book on understanding how to properly feed your dog by preparing food at home.
- Lew Olsen’s book Raw & Natural Nutrition for Dogs . Lew also has a Facebook group for Raw Feeding . Want a phone consult with Lew Olson to learn specifically what to feed your dog?
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IMAGES
COMMENTS
Chicken isn't bad for dogs with kidney disease. As a food type, chicken has a good composition of meat and bone which are nutritious for an affected dog's needs. While the meat provides rich healthy protein, the brittle bone of the chicken contains rich calcium is great for dogs with kidney. Chicken is completely safe for dogs experiencing ...
At Mazuri, we are driven by a love of animals. All animals. The tiny ones. The giant ones. The exotic. The unique. From alpaca and anteaters to zebra and zebrafish, we're here to help deliver the best possible nutrition to every single one of them. Better Nutrition for Just About Every Animal Under the Sun. Since our start in 1989, we have ...
The best products for your pets: dog, cat, small animal, bird, fish and reptile food, toys, treats, cat trees, cages, leashes, litter boxes and much more! Free shipping 79$+. Safari Pet Center. Login. 0 Cart ... Safari has one of the widest selection of pet brands in Quebec - with new products arriving throughout the year! ...
To learn more about feeding a fresh food diet to your dog, check out more of our articles here in our Safari Doodles Education blog. Texas Tripe pre-made raw food. The "prey model" diet is only meat, organs and soft bones or ground bones. This is a complete diet if a dog gets fatty fish or fish oil 3 days a week and eggs 3-7 days a week.
A biologically appropriate diet for a dog is one that consists of raw whole foods similar to those eaten by the dogs' wild ancestors. The food fed must contain the same balance and type of ingredients as consumed by those wild ancestors. This food will include such things as muscle meat, bone, fat, organ meat, and vegetable materials and any ...
We have access to more nutritional Dog and Cat food brands than we have on our shelves. For your convenience this local retail pet store can stock your pets favorite food. Pet Safari. 1577 S. Highland Ave. Clearwater, FL. 33756 (727) 443-0993. Grooming 727-446-7047. Hours. Monday 8:00 am - 7:00 pm Tuesday 8:00 am - 7:00 pm
The Dog Food Advisor comprises researchers, editors, veterinarians and pet nutritionists who review and rate dog foods to help dog parents find the best food for their pets. We offer dog food recommendations for specific breeds, life stages, health complaints, and more. You can find out more on our About Us page.
The brand says that plans start at $2 a day. To illustrate how costs can range, the web site gives an example of a 11-pound Yorkshire terrier whose fresh food plan is $2.80 a day and a 75-pound ...
Petfood.com has the pet foods you need at great prices, from dog food, including dry & natural dog food, to cat food to animal food, with fish, bird, ferret & more.
2,434. $62.99. $66.38. $59.84. Shop Chewy for dog food brands featuring wet dog food and dry dog food in addition to grain-free, gluten-free and limited ingredient recipes. Let us help you find the best one with dog food reviews, ingredient information, and personal one-on-one attention. *FREE* shipping on orders $49+ and BEST customer service!
The high quality and wide range of formulas is why Hill's Science Diet makes our favorite dog food. It even comes in a resealable bag. Food Type: Dry, wet | Flavors: So many including chicken, turkey, lamb, beef, and fish | Package Sizes: 5, 15.5, 17, 33, and 35 pounds. The Spruce Pets / Alexander Huang.
Protein - some sort of meat (chicken, beef, lamb) as the main ingredient. Whole foods - for overall nutrition (Fruits and vegetables can include carrots, pumpkins, and blueberries) Fiber - for easier digestion. Omega-3 fatty acids - for healthy skin and coat. Antioxidants - for healthy immune system.
Made 43 days of food for a 50 lbs dog; To learn more about feeding a fresh food diet to your dog, check out more of our articles here in our Safari Doodles Education blog. Safari Doodles is a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for sites to earn advertising fees ...
You should feed your dog a puppy-specific formula until they're at least 1 year old. Shop the best puppy food for your growing puppy from brands like Purina, Royal Canin, Hill's, Iams and more.
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BARF®, or Biologically Appropriate Raw Food, is the diet nature intended for our pets to not just survive but thrive. All of our diets are complete and carefully balanced; a proprietary blend of muscle meat, organs, bone-connector tissue, finely ground bone, fruits, veggies, vitamins and minerals. About Us.
Products people trust for the pets they love - Coastal Pet is a family owned, American manufacturer based in Alliance, Oh. We make products for dogs and cats of every size, shape and lifestyle. From adventurers and travelers to Li'l Pals and trend setters, we've got the collars, leashes, harnesses and toys that keep them smiling. We also offer product for grooming, travel and feeding your ...
Pet Safari. Pet Safari is a family-owned Pet Store located in Clearwater, Largo area. Since we opened our doors in 1991, Pet Safari has grown from a grooming salon into a full line pet store. We are known for reliability, friendly customer service, and high-quality products. We carry a broad range of pet supplies and feature in-store grooming ...
FREE 1-3 day delivery on first-time orders over $35. Safari is a premium collection of dog and cat grooming tools and supplies made by Coastal Pet Products. Coastal Pet is a family-owned, American manufacturer of pet products established by brothers Jim and Tom Stout in the basement of a pet shop in 1968.
First 3 Ingredients. Lamb meal. Lamb. Tapioca. The Instinct Limited Ingredient Diet Grain-Free Recipe with Real Lamb has been a revelation in caring for dogs with sensitive stomachs. The use of lamb as the sole animal protein source is ideal for reducing the likelihood of dietary intolerances.
This Safari Dog Nail Clippers review shows how these dog nail trimmers work for small and medium dogs, and how to use them to clip dog's nails. ... 25 Vet Recommended Dog Food Recipes.
Safari - Nail Trimmer; The Company of Animals; Training Supplies. Training Treat; Wild Bird Feed & Feeders. Nature's Season ... Naked Bear ( Human ) Skin Care; Human Treats; Dog Food. Shop All Foods; Grained Dog Food; Wet, Toppers, Broth Dog Food; Grain Free Dog Food; Dehydrated & Freeze Dried Dog Food; Dog Treats. Shop All Treats; Bully Sticks ...
Dogs Weight = 50 lbs. Age of dog, 2 years= 3%. On a calculator 50 x 0.03 = 1.5 pounds of food / per day. Calculate your dog's calorie needs. This calculator vs the 3% body weight calculation equals to be the same answer when comparing Texas Tripe's Wolf Run blend: 1.5 lbs of food equals 1140 calories.
To learn more about feeding a fresh food diet to your dog, check out more of our articles here in our Safari Dogs Ranch Education page. Texas Tripe pre-made raw food. The "Prey Model" diet is only meat, organs and soft bones or ground bones. This is a complete diet if a dog gets fatty fish or fish oil 3 days a week and eggs 3+ days a week.