After 39 hours spent researching the best dog foods, we think Ketona Chicken Recipe Dry High Protein Dog Food is the best for most people.
This choice is based on several criteria: brand, type, size, flavor, life stage, calories, balanced nutrition, high-quality proteins, natural ingredients, vitamins & minerals, low carbohydrates, fibers, grain-free, artificial preservatives, and easy to digest, among other things.
Product | Price | Overall Rating | Quality | Appearance | Taste | Scent | Value for Money | brand | type | size | flavor | life stage | calories | balanced nutrition | high-quality proteins | natural ingredients | vitamins & minerals | low carbohydrates | fibers | grain-free | artificial preservatives | easy to digest | |
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Ketona Chicken Recipe Dry High Protein Dog Food | Check Price | 4.9 | 5.0 | 5.0 | 4.5 | 5.0 | 5.0 | Ketona | Dry | 24.2 lbs | Chicken | Adult | 452 kcal / cup | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | No | Yes | |
Ketogenic Pet Foods Keto-Kibble Starch Free Dog Food | Check Price | 4.8 | 5.0 | 4.5 | 4.5 | 5.0 | 5.0 | Ketogenic Pet Foods | Dry | 18 lbs | Chicken | All ages | Not specified | Yes | Yes | Not specified | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | |
Taste Of The Wild Grain Free High Protein Dry Dog Food | Check Price | 4.4 | 5.0 | 4.5 | 4.0 | 4.0 | 4.5 | Taste Of The Wild | Dry | 30 lbs | Roasted Bison / Venison | All ages | 370 kcal / cup | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | No | Yes | |
Blue Buffalo Life Protection Formula Dry Dog Food | Check Price | 4.6 | 5.0 | 4.5 | 4.0 | 5.0 | 4.5 | Blue Buffalo | Dry | 30 lbs | Chicken / Brown Rice | Adult | 398 kcal / cup | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | No | Yes | |
Diamond Naturals Real Meat Recipe Premium Dry Dog Food | Check Price | 4.3 | 5.0 | 4.0 | 4.0 | 4.0 | 4.5 | Diamond Naturals | Dry | 40 lbs | Lamb / Rice | Adult | 342 kcal / cup | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | No | No | Yes |
Proper dog care starts with proper nutrition from the best dog food you can find.
If you start their life with you by feeding them great food, they’ll have a much easier time thriving when they get to their later years.
What supplies do you need when you adopt an adult dog? Many people think of the basics – dog flea treatment, a dog pooper scooper, or a dog bed. If you’re really fancy, you may buy a dog water fountain so they always have fresh water to drink. Or, you may have a dog recovery suit or cone for when they have an injury or they’re healing from surgery.
Adventures are always fun! You may be looking for a dog car seat or dog bike trailer so they can always go on adventures with you. Don’t forget their dog whistle, dog harness, and dog retractable leash so you can always keep them nearby, as well as their dog water bottle so they can stay hydrated.
What grooming supplies do you need? A dog nail grinder, a dog toothbrush and dog toothpaste, and a good brush or dematting tool can go a long way.
When it’s time for lights out, be sure they have their dog gate or dog playpen set up so they don’t raise havoc through the house all night! Set them up with their dog blanket and bed, and they should be cozy and ready to drift off to sleep.
Dogs can’t just live on dog treats, even though they’d like to. Do you always put the best dog food in their automatic dog feeder or dog bowl? Knowing what nutrients your dog needs can help them live a long, healthy life.
Selection Of The Best Dog Foods
Here are the best dog foods for most people according to Outlinist:
Ketona Chicken Recipe Dry High Protein Dog Food
The best pet owners are picky pet owners. You want your dog to have the softest bed, the warmest blanket, and the most nutritious dog food.
But which do you choose?
Do you need dog food that’s low fat? Or perhaps dog food to gain weight? Maybe your dog is as picky as you are. Then you need dog food for picky eaters.
With so many options on the market, it might be difficult to choose the best one.
However, the dog food ratings are clear; with this Ketona high protein food, you can’t go wrong.
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With real meats such as these, your dog gets real benefits from amino acids like taurine and methionine, as well as the vitamins and minerals needed for a healthy everyday lifestyle.
The Ketona Chicken Recipe Dry High Protein Dog Food is the closest thing to a raw food diet that you can find in a kibble. If it’s raw, it’s as natural as it gets, but if you’re not looking to feed your dog completely raw food, this kibble recipe is the next best thing.
Ketona contains less than 6% carbs, less than 5% starch, only 0.5% sugars, and 46% protein which is as close to the real thing as it gets. This is true for both their 4.2 lb. and 24.2 lb. bags.
The product is 100% made in the USA, so you know it’s a brand you can trust. In fact, the real meat is even raised by American ranchers, so you know exactly where your dog’s food is coming from.
brand | Ketona |
---|---|
type | Dry |
size | 24.2 lbs |
flavor | Chicken |
life stage | Adult |
calories | 452 kcal / cup |
balanced nutrition | Yes |
high-quality proteins | Yes |
natural ingredients | Yes |
vitamins & minerals | Yes |
low carbohydrates | Yes |
fibers | Yes |
grain-free | Yes |
artificial preservatives | No |
easy to digest | Yes |
The first ingredient is always real meat, like real chicken, and real fish. It also includes other beneficial ingredients such as oat hulls, flaxseed, ground green peas, chicken liver, and salt. There’s no doubt this dog food is like a 5-star meal for your pup.
With real meats such as these, your dog gets real benefits from amino acids like taurine and methionine, as well as the vitamins and minerals needed for a healthy everyday lifestyle. The only things this product doesn’t include are corn, wheat, soy, potatoes, and rice or barley. In other words, everything your dog needs, and nothing they don’t.
If you want a healthy, happy dog, choose a healthy, all-natural, real kibble like this Ketona food.
Pros
Too many dog food brands outsource their ingredients and don’t tell you where they’re from.
Feeding your dog doesn’t require a dog food guide, but if it did, surely it would include this product because there are endless benefits for your dog’s health. If you’re looking for a new, groundbreaking dog food unlike any other, Ketona has got you, and your dog, covered.
- Less carbohydrates: When it comes to carbohydrates, less means more health for your dog and in the end, more days you get to spend together. In fact, there is 85% less carbs in this dog food than other similar brands.
- More protein: The reason there’s no room for carbs in this recipe is because it’s filled up with protein. This dry dog food is made up of almost 50% protein from real, natural meat ingredients. This is ideal for the right amino acid content for your dog’s optimal health.
- Zero corn: The only zero you want to see in your dog food is zero corn, zero grain, and zero other fillers. Corn is actually hard for dogs to digest, which is why it is not used in this dog food. Instead your dog can get full on the foods it really likes.
- Trusted meat source: Too many dog food brands outsource their ingredients and don’t tell you where they’re from. This Ketona product is made in the USA with well-known and trusted sources. That means all the goodness that goes into your dog’s food starts at the best source.
- Added vitamins and minerals: The only thing that’s “added” to this dog food recipe is the vitamins and minerals that your dog needs. Healthy fruits and vegetables provide the extra goodness, while other ingredients like cysteine and taurine balance the levels needed for your dog to be their healthiest.
- Antibiotic and GMO free: If it’s an acronym, you probably don’t want it in your dog’s food. GMO stands for genetically modified organism, which means it’s created, not all natural. That’s why Ketona never includes GMO’s or antibiotics in their dog food, because they’re just not natural.
Cons
Everyone wants to feed their dog top-quality dry dog food, but that doesn’t mean that the best quality won’t have a few disadvantages worth mentioning. Smart pet owners know there’s no such thing as the “perfect” pet food, but this one comes close, even with these things in mind.
- May cause diarrhea: Anytime you try a new dog food recipe, there is a chance your dog may have diarrhea or other digestive problems. This is a common and natural side effect, although if it persists, you should consider changing their food back.
- Still hungry after eating: Humans try to avoid carbs, so it’s no surprise you’d do the same for your dog. However, it seems that with this formula, no carbs is too few carbs. After eating a whole bowl of Ketona, your dog may still appear hungry, most likely because there are no carbs or filler products.
- Non-preferred taste: It’s somewhat like playing the lottery when trying to decide if your dog will like a new kibble recipe. Keep in mind that they may not like the taste of this Ketona food. Even with its all-natural ingredients, they may not prefer it and therefore not eat it.
Price | Check Price | Check Price | Check Price |
---|---|---|---|
brand | Ketona | Ketogenic Pet Foods | Taste Of The Wild |
type | Dry | Dry | Dry |
size | 24.2 lbs | 18 lbs | 30 lbs |
flavor | Chicken | Chicken | Roasted Bison / Venison |
life stage | Adult | All ages | All ages |
calories | 452 kcal / cup | Not specified | 370 kcal / cup |
balanced nutrition | Yes | Yes | Yes |
high-quality proteins | Yes | Yes | Yes |
natural ingredients | Yes | Not specified | Yes |
vitamins & minerals | Yes | Yes | Yes |
low carbohydrates | Yes | Yes | Yes |
fibers | Yes | Yes | Yes |
grain-free | Yes | Yes | Yes |
artificial preservatives | No | Yes | No |
easy to digest | Yes | Yes | Yes |
Summary
This recipe is as tasty as it is healthy with almost 50% being dedicated to protein.
If your dog could request their food by name, they’d ask for Ketona Chicken Recipe Dry High Protein Dog Food.
This recipe is as tasty as it is healthy with almost 50% being dedicated to protein. Unlike other kibbles that are made with a long list of fillers and questionable ingredients, Ketona thoughtfully includes real ingredients that are intended to benefit and improve your dog’s health. From real chicken to real veggies, the only thing you won’t see are real grains or fillers.
Ketona is the ideal dog food for dogs with any special dietary needs including for diabetes, old age, weight loss, or other conditions. That’s because Ketona knows that health comes first, and a healthy dog comes from feeding them the healthiest food around.
Ketogenic Pet Foods Keto-Kibble Starch Free Dog Food
If there’s one thing your dog loves, it’s their food.
There are tons of different types of dog food out there, but the bottom line is, they just love food.
You might be asking yourself whether your dog needs wet or dry food. The fact is that while you may feed them both, dry dog food is more convenient and equally as nutritious.
Dry food is easy; you can store it, travel with it, and leave it out for your pup to graze on throughout the day.
This type of food is also high in protein and can contain a variety of ingredients, as well as preservatives as well, so be mindful.
Information
Use this product as a complete meal for regular feedings, or use it as a supplement for protein boosting power.
If you’re wondering what vet recommended dog food you need, choose Ketogenic Pet Foods Keto-Kibble Starch Free Dog Food. You’ve heard of the keto diet for humans, and now there’s a high protein, keto-type diet for your dog.
Ketogenic dog food is the ideal dog food for weight loss, allergies, and optimal health. Just like the human keto diet, this dog food is protein and fat based. This is exactly what your dog needs, since they are a true carnivore at heart.
This kibble provides more than twice the normal amount of protein. It is also free of starches and grains, since once again, these aren’t the nutrients your dog would be getting in the wild, so why include them?
brand | Ketogenic Pet Foods |
---|---|
type | Dry |
size | 18 lbs |
flavor | Chicken |
life stage | All ages |
calories | Not specified |
balanced nutrition | Yes |
high-quality proteins | Yes |
natural ingredients | Not specified |
vitamins & minerals | Yes |
low carbohydrates | Yes |
fibers | Yes |
grain-free | Yes |
artificial preservatives | Yes |
easy to digest | Yes |
Unlike pet foods that are grain-free but still have starch, this dog food contains no starches such as potatoes, which would otherwise diminish your dog’s wellbeing. Without starch which can spike insulin levels, this dog food is also an ideal dog food for diabetic dogs.
Use this product as a complete meal for regular feedings, or use it as a supplement for protein boosting power. Since this diet is so high in protein however, just be sure to speak with your vet before switching over to this food.
Ketogenic dog food follows high standards when it comes to their product. Dogs deserve just as top quality food as you do. That’s why this product is manufactured in the USA and exceeds the minimum health levels required by AAFCO.
Pros
Some of the probiotics in this dog food include gut-dwelling microbes that come from lean meats.
If your dog has a special diet, or any sort of allergies, you should choose a dog food that’s good for allergies. This Ketogenic Pet Foods formula will provide your pup with all the health benefits it needs and nothing it doesn’t.
- Hip and joint support: All the nutrients your dog needs are all natural. If you want your dog to thrive just as they would in the wild, this Ketogenic high protein and fat formula is the way to optimal hip and joint support. Specifically, hip and joint support comes from glucosamine, of which there are high levels in this product.
- Improves health: With dog obesity and diabetes on the rise, this dog food puts an end to unhealthy trends. In fact, it improves overall health and supports weight loss benefits while keeping diabetes under control. If you want to improve your dog’s health, start with this Ketogenic dog food.
- For senior dogs: When it comes to senior dogs, you want them to have the best stuff around. One of the best diets is one you’ve likely never considered, the keto diet. With only protein and healthy fats, you don’t have to worry about any “added ingredients”.
- Probiotics: Dog probiotics produce short chain fatty acids. These acids prevent the growth of harmful bacteria such as E. Coli. Some of the probiotics in this dog food include gut-dwelling microbes that come from lean meats, which is the protein base in this product.
- No refrigeration required: Several special diet dog foods require refrigeration so that the ingredients do not spoil. This brand of ketogenic kibble however, does not require refrigeration, making it easier for you to store, use, and for your dog to eat right off the shelf.
- Starch free: Specifically for older dogs or dogs with diabetes, starch can spike levels of insulin, which compromises your dog’s health. Even in grain-free dog food, there may still be starches, but this product contains neither starches nor grains.
Cons
Even with all the benefits of keto kibble, it’s not perfect. There are a few things you should know about this Ketogenic Pet Foods product, but likely they won’t be deal breakers.
- Some byproducts used: As many natural products as this dog food claims to have, there are inevitably a few byproducts. Like many other dog food brands, byproducts are the unclear, “extras” that may be included in your dog’s food.
- Must transition very slowly: Because this dog food is so nutrient and protein dense, it is imperative that you transition your dog to eating it slowly. This means as little as even a handful per day. This can be a bit tedious and become a nuisance for some pet owners.
- All meat sources not identified: In addition to byproducts, the sources from which some of the meat come from are unknown. Keep in mind however that even though the exact source of these ingredients may not be identified, the food is manufactured in the USA and meets AAFCO standards.
Price | Check Price | Check Price | Check Price |
---|---|---|---|
brand | Ketogenic Pet Foods | Ketona | Taste Of The Wild |
type | Dry | Dry | Dry |
size | 18 lbs | 24.2 lbs | 30 lbs |
flavor | Chicken | Chicken | Roasted Bison / Venison |
life stage | All ages | Adult | All ages |
calories | Not specified | 452 kcal / cup | 370 kcal / cup |
balanced nutrition | Yes | Yes | Yes |
high-quality proteins | Yes | Yes | Yes |
natural ingredients | Not specified | Yes | Yes |
vitamins & minerals | Yes | Yes | Yes |
low carbohydrates | Yes | Yes | Yes |
fibers | Yes | Yes | Yes |
grain-free | Yes | Yes | Yes |
artificial preservatives | Yes | No | No |
easy to digest | Yes | Yes | Yes |
Summary
Whatever your dog’s needs, this Ketogenic dog food can help.
Ketogenic Pet Foods Keto-Kibble Starch Free Dog Food is the high-protein pet food that you can’t just find anywhere.
Dogs may have a number of problems from diabetes to weight gain, kidney or liver disease, and so on. Whatever your dog’s needs, this Ketogenic dog food can help. Like the keto diet for humans, this formula can benefit your pup in all the same ways. Its unique formula takes canines back to their roots – their carnivorous roots.
All your dog needs is the protein and fat content of this kibble and you’ll quickly see a change in their health and how quickly they scarf down their food. If you want your dog to have a quality diet that supports long-lasting health, choose the same thing you’d choose for yourself, choose this keto-kibble.
Taste Of The Wild Grain Free High Protein Dry Dog Food
A good pet owner knows that dog food isn’t just dog food.
This stuff is literally the stuff your dog lives off of; it’s their livelihood, their treat, and even their excitement throughout the day – to eat good food.
Dog food ratings might be important, but nothing compares to true dog food nutrition. You want to be sure that you’re giving your pup the best dog food quality there is.
Some things to avoid include animal byproducts, chemical preservatives, and other low-quality ingredients.
Taste of the Wild is vet recommended dog food, so you don’t have to worry about the quality.
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The ingredients in this formula combine to help improve your dog’s GI tract, and create a healthier, shinier skin and coat.
Your dog is a beast at heart, so feed him a little Taste of The Wild Grain Free High Protein Dry Dog Food.
This real meat, high-quality product made in the USA is available in one, big 30 pound bag; big enough to sustain the beast inside. This dog food is high in protein with meat like real roasted bison, real lamb, chicken, and fish meal.
Since real meat is the first ingredient, this dog food has the amino acid profile your dog needs, especially for leaner, stronger muscles. Protein isn’t the only ingredient in this dog food either. With Taste of the Wild, you’ll also get fruits and vegetables that include vitamins and minerals, making them the superfoods your dog thrives on.
brand | Taste Of The Wild |
---|---|
type | Dry |
size | 30 lbs |
flavor | Roasted Bison / Venison |
life stage | All ages |
calories | 370 kcal / cup |
balanced nutrition | Yes |
high-quality proteins | Yes |
natural ingredients | Yes |
vitamins & minerals | Yes |
low carbohydrates | Yes |
fibers | Yes |
grain-free | Yes |
artificial preservatives | No |
easy to digest | Yes |
The ingredients in this formula combine to help improve your dog’s GI tract, and create a healthier, shinier skin and coat. There is never any corn, wheat, or other fillers included in this brand, so the formula is that much easier to digest.
Your dog will be begging for the unique Taste of the Wild formula, especially the High Prairie option with its roasted bison and venison flavor – not your average chicken and rice combo.
If that’s not enough, this brand also follows strict food and safety protocols. It is manufactured in the USA and family owned, so that you know you’re buying from a real, trusted company. Treat your dog to the Taste of the Wild and treat yourself to a healthier, happier, pup.
Pros
The best kind of dog food is one that will last forever; not on the shelf, but in nature.
With this Taste of the Wild food, the list of benefits is never-ending. There are more reasons than just one to love this brand of dog food, for both you and your dog. Now you can purchase a truly high-quality, delicious dog food.
- Grain free: Grains of any kind are often known as filler’s for dog food; things that increase the calorie count of the dog food, but not necessarily the nutritional content. This formula is grain free, so that the only thing you get is real nutrients.
- Natural recipe: If your dog was in the wild, he’d naturally retrieve his own food. Take his wild nature into consideration with this all-natural recipe that tastes like he caught it himself. It comes straight from nature, so you also know there are no preservatives or added ingredients.
- Sustainable sources: The best kind of dog food is one that will last forever; not on the shelf, but in nature. This product uses sustainable and eco-friendly sources to create its dry dog food. The sources continue to provide the ingredients your dog loves, without destroying the environment.
- Supports digestive health: The fillers mentioned before can also be harmful to your dog’s digestive health. On the other hand, with this food, your dog’s digestive system will be as healthy as can be thanks to no grains and no corn, just pure, perfect health.
- Made in the USA: Although countless products are outsourced to different parts of the world, Taste of the Wild gives your dog the taste of the wild straight from the USA. This product is naturally made, so you can feel good about buying what’s almost a local community food
- Improves skin and coat: Don’t let your dog’s coat lose its luster. This recipe includes superfoods and antioxidants such as fruits and vegetables to improve the skin, fur, and coat of your dog. Now your dog can feel its best on the inside and look their best on the outside.
Cons
There’s no doubt your dog will love this type of dry dog food. Like any other dog food, though, pay attention to how your dog first responds to trying a new food. Vomiting, diarrhea, etc. are all common reactions to new food, even the most top quality food.
- History of recalls: Although this brand strives to follow the utmost safest protocols for food processing, they have been known to have a few recalls. On the other hand, they actually welcome reporting any issues with their dog food so that they may continue to improve it.
- Digestive problems: Some foods just don’t work for some dogs. Whether they are allergic or just don’t digest the food well, this food may cause digestive issues such as vomiting or diarrhea, and other problems passing and/or digesting the food.
- May take a while to get used to: With such a unique and gamey flavor, you may notice that your pup eats the food, but does not finish it. This food may take a while to transition to. If you notice a complete loss of appetite however, it is wise to change the food.
Price | Check Price | Check Price | Check Price |
---|---|---|---|
brand | Taste Of The Wild | Ketona | Ketogenic Pet Foods |
type | Dry | Dry | Dry |
size | 30 lbs | 24.2 lbs | 18 lbs |
flavor | Roasted Bison / Venison | Chicken | Chicken |
life stage | All ages | Adult | All ages |
calories | 370 kcal / cup | 452 kcal / cup | Not specified |
balanced nutrition | Yes | Yes | Yes |
high-quality proteins | Yes | Yes | Yes |
natural ingredients | Yes | Yes | Not specified |
vitamins & minerals | Yes | Yes | Yes |
low carbohydrates | Yes | Yes | Yes |
fibers | Yes | Yes | Yes |
grain-free | Yes | Yes | Yes |
artificial preservatives | No | No | Yes |
easy to digest | Yes | Yes | Yes |
Summary
The Taste of the Wild dog food includes all the flavors of the wild as well as real meat for real protein, and real fruits and veggies for real antioxidants.
A Taste of The Wild Grain Free High Protein Dry Dog Food is like your dog going out and catching their own meal in the wild.
The difference is, your dog doesn’t actually have to leave the house, or make a mess while doing it. The Taste of the Wild dog food includes all the flavors of the wild as well as real meat for real protein, and real fruits and veggies for real antioxidants. With so many natural ingredients, this makes the food easily digestible, unlike that other kibble that can get stuck in your dog’s GI tract.
Once you switch to this dry dog food formula, you likely won’t be going back because this unique blend has all the flavors and nutrition your dog craves.
Blue Buffalo Life Protection Formula Dry Dog Food
It’s one thing to feed your dog, but another thing to feed your dog something they love.
With the best dry dog food your dog will always know when it’s dinner time, even without ringing the dinner bell.
Some are the best dog food for joint health, some dog food is good for urinary care, but this Blue Buffalo choice is the best complete dog food, for your dog’s entire life.
This means you can feel comfortable feeding them this dry food, even if it’s for breakfast, lunch, and dinner.
When it comes to dog food, Blue Buffalo is definitely in the top 3 dog food brands.
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If real quality ingredients isn’t enough, Blue Buffalo also includes their trademarked LifeSource Bits.
Blue Buffalo is not a name that dog owners are unfamiliar with, but the Blue Buffalo Life Protection Formula Dry Dog Food is the best one yet.
This dog food is available in three sizes: 6 lbs., 15 lbs., and 30 lbs., for those dogs who just can’t get enough. Also available in fish and brown rice, and lamb and baron rice, their chicken and brown rice recipe is favored by all, especially adult dogs.
This Blue Buffalo formula contains the proteins, carbs, omegas, and fatty acids your adult dog needs. Whether it’s that burst of energy they need, extra health, or a shiny coat, this dog food can do it all. Now your adult dog can feel young again.
brand | Blue Buffalo |
---|---|
type | Dry |
size | 30 lbs |
flavor | Chicken / Brown Rice |
life stage | Adult |
calories | 398 kcal / cup |
balanced nutrition | Yes |
high-quality proteins | Yes |
natural ingredients | Yes |
vitamins & minerals | Yes |
low carbohydrates | Yes |
fibers | Yes |
grain-free | Yes |
artificial preservatives | No |
easy to digest | Yes |
Unlike other dry dog food brands, this product puts real meat first. Some of their quality ingredients include real chicken, whole grains, and vegetables and fruits you would pick straight from your garden. Wholesome grains and real foods are the quality ingredients your dog needs for healthy muscles.
If real quality ingredients isn’t enough, Blue Buffalo also includes their trademarked LifeSource Bits. This is a unique blend of antioxidants, vitamins, and minerals chosen by natural and holistic vets and animal nutritionists alike, to create the healthiest dog food on the planet. This food will support your canine’s immune system throughout all its stages of life.
If you’ve heard of Blue Buffalo before, that’s because it’s a name worth mentioning. It uses all natural ingredients from all natural sources, so that your dog can live and be healthy naturally.
Pros
Unlike some kibble that uses any part of the animal to create dog food including ears, feet, and intestines, Blue Buffalo never uses animal byproducts or “leftovers”.
Every product claims to be the best, but this one truly is. With endless benefits, you can trust in this dog food quality. There’s no doubt your dog will be happier and healthier for life when you choose Blue Buffalo’s Life Protection formula.
- Promotes strong bones: You want your dog to have good health from the inside out, and this starts with strong bones. This food supports strong bones and teeth with calcium, phosphorus, and essential vitamins. This is especially useful as your dog begins to age and their bones weaken.
- High quality protein: Not all protein is created the same. High-quality protein comes from high-quality ingredients – the only ones that Blue Buffalo uses. These ingredients improve muscle development and give your dog plenty of energy even as they age.
- Improves immune system: Another system that is likely to deteriorate as your dog ages is their immune system. That’s why the vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants in this dog food brand are used specifically to improve their overall immune system, for youth, adult, and even senior dogs.
- No byproducts: Unlike some kibble that uses any part of the animal to create dog food including ears, feet, and intestines, Blue Buffalo never uses animal byproducts or “leftovers”. Every ingredient in their top-quality formula is all-natural and is only the stuff your dog needs and loves.
- All natural: Your dog is a carnivore and a wild animal at heart. As natural as their roots are, so should their dog food be. This product is an all-natural dog food made with the finest ingredients. If you’re looking for byproducts, corn, wheat, soy, or other artificial meal, you won’t find it here.
- Ideal for adult dogs: As you dog gets older, choose a dog food that will help them, not hurt them. Now more than ever, they need quality ingredients that will support their digestion, immune system, bones, muscles, and everything in between. This brand does it all and more.
Cons
If you’re wondering what could possibly be bad about Blue Buffalo Life Protection, the truth is, there’s not much. However, like any other product, there are a few disadvantages worth mentioning. Even with these risks in mind, you’ll still love this product, and so will your dog.
- May cause itchy skin: Keep in mind that there may be allergens in any dog food ingredients, even the top-quality kind. When your dog is allergic to an ingredient or food, it may manifest as itchy skin, to which your dog will consistently chew or nibble at.
- Batches may differ: Whether buying this product off the shelf or online direct to your door, be mindful that batches may differ. Batches of dog food are made daily by the thousands, and the batch you receive could differ in smell, taste, or even quality. Watch for mold with any dog food you buy.
- Loss of appetite: If you’re a dog owner hoping to change up your dog’s routine with new food, there’s nothing worse than seeing them lose their appetite. However, this can happen with any food. If you have recently tried this product, there is a chance your dog does not prefer it, and loses their appetite.
Price | Check Price | Check Price | Check Price |
---|---|---|---|
brand | Blue Buffalo | Ketona | Ketogenic Pet Foods |
type | Dry | Dry | Dry |
size | 30 lbs | 24.2 lbs | 18 lbs |
flavor | Chicken / Brown Rice | Chicken | Chicken |
life stage | Adult | Adult | All ages |
calories | 398 kcal / cup | 452 kcal / cup | Not specified |
balanced nutrition | Yes | Yes | Yes |
high-quality proteins | Yes | Yes | Yes |
natural ingredients | Yes | Yes | Not specified |
vitamins & minerals | Yes | Yes | Yes |
low carbohydrates | Yes | Yes | Yes |
fibers | Yes | Yes | Yes |
grain-free | Yes | Yes | Yes |
artificial preservatives | No | No | Yes |
easy to digest | Yes | Yes | Yes |
Summary
If you’re looking for quality dog food that is equally as healthy as it is delicious, choose this one.
Blue Buffalo is a household name, that’s why the Blue Buffalo Life Protection Formula Dry Dog Food is easy to love.
If you’re looking for quality dog food that is equally as healthy as it is delicious, choose this one. Especially for adult dogs, this dog food has all your dog’s needs in mind. For a shiny and healthy coat, it includes omega 3’s and 6’s; for healthy muscles, it contains wholesome grains, fruits, and vegetables; and lastly, for overall immune system health at every stage, it includes a unique blend of vitamins and minerals.
With this Blue Buffalo product, you won’t have to sugarcoat your dog’s food any longer. It already contains all the real meat and foods you would otherwise toss in there anyway.
Diamond Naturals Real Meat Recipe Premium Dry Dog Food
Feeding time can be as fun for you as it is for your dog.
For your dog, their food means delicious goodness that keeps them full of energy. For you, it means you get to provide them with all the nutrients they need for a healthy, long-lasting life.
The problem is, with so many dog food brands each flaunting their taglines saying they’re “the best”, how do you know which one to trust?
If you truly want to buy the best dog food, consider these qualities when shopping for top quality kibble.
Make sure your dog food has quality meats, fiber, and enough fat. Be careful of copper and zinc which have different effects on various breeds.
Information
In addition to all natural, good food with real meat, Diamond Naturals uses sustainable sources to create the best product for your pup.
Because your pup is your very own gem, choose Diamond Naturals Real Meat Recipe Premium Dry Dog Food.
When this product says real meat, it means real meat. This dog food has lamb as one of the first real meat ingredients. It also includes white rice, peas, dried beet pulp, egg, cracked pearled barley, dried yeast and chicken fat, among other ideal ingredients for your dog.
With all that real meat, raised straight from the pasture, this is ideal dog food for older dogs, with the right amino acid profile for lean, strong muscles. These premium ingredients also include added minerals and vitamins, such as fruit and vegetable superfoods, for a beautiful, shiny coat and healthy skin.
brand | Diamond Naturals |
---|---|
type | Dry |
size | 40 lbs |
flavor | Lamb / Rice |
life stage | Adult |
calories | 342 kcal / cup |
balanced nutrition | Yes |
high-quality proteins | Yes |
natural ingredients | Yes |
vitamins & minerals | Yes |
low carbohydrates | Yes |
fibers | Yes |
grain-free | No |
artificial preservatives | No |
easy to digest | Yes |
For as much as Diamond Naturals dog food does have, it also leaves out the ingredients you don’t want. For example there is no corn or wheat filler, and absolutely no artificial colors, flavors or preservatives are included.
Because Diamond Naturals knows your dog won’t be able to get enough, this product is available in a bag up to 40 pounds, as well as a 20 pound or 6 pound size. This means there is plenty of food to go around, for one dog or multiple pups.
In addition to all natural, good food with real meat, Diamond Naturals uses sustainable sources to create the best product for your pup. This means these sources continue to naturally produce more goodness for your good boy, from trusted sources around the world.
Pros
Adult dogs require a unique diet, just as puppies do, they simply have different needs.
You want to give your dog the best dog food, and that means choosing a brand with the best dog food quality. That’s why Diamond Naturals has more benefits than just one, to keep your canine full, happy, and healthy.
- Contains superfoods: Your dog deserves the same superfoods you do, that’s why Diamond includes real, natural fruits and vegetables in their formula. The same kind that you’d eat for glowing skin, healthy hair (coat), and the best immune and digestive health you could ask for.
- Nutrient rich: In addition to fruits and vegetables, this formula contains added vitamins and minerals making it packed with nutrients. This makes it especially easy for your adult dog to digest and includes probiotics for a long and healthy life.
- No corn: Diamond Naturals does not include any corn or wheat filler in this food. In fact, corn is commonly known to cause allergies and allergic reactions in dogs. Corn is also not easily digestible which can be hard on your dog’s stomach.
- Lean protein: On the other hand, lean protein is exactly what your dog wants. Beef, lamb, fish, and other lean meats, these help support strong muscles, even for your older dogs. Lean protein is also packed with omegas and healthy fatty acids.
- Ideal for adult dogs: Adult dogs require a unique diet, just as puppies do, they simply have different needs. If you want to support your older dog’s joints, muscles, coat, and all the things that might start to weaken as they age, Diamond Naturals has an ingredient for all of it.
- Made from sustainable sources: The only thing better than all-natural ingredients, is all-natural ingredients that are sustainable. The sustainable sources that Diamond Naturals gets their ingredients from are eco-friendly and reproduce the ingredients your dog loves, naturally.
Cons
Even a product as good as gold, well Diamond, comes with a few setbacks. As any smart buyer should know, there are a few disadvantages worth mentioning with any product. Here are a few to bear in mind with this Diamond Naturals dog food.
- May cause diarrhea and/or gas: You never know exactly what your dog will or will not like until you try it. That being said, not all dogs will have the same reaction, but some buyers have noted that their dogs developed diarrhea and were very gaseous after eating this food.
- Don’t let it get old: Like any product you can buy off the shelf, even human foods, beware of expiration dates and mold. When any food products have been sitting for too long, or perhaps you’ve even had it in your own pantry for too long, be mindful of mold and do not feed it to your canine if you suspect mold.
- Kibble size can be inconsistent: For those with automatic dog feeders, be aware that the size and shape of the kibble can vary across different flavors; this real meat recipe may fit just fine in your feeder, but the chicken might not.
Price | Check Price | Check Price | Check Price |
---|---|---|---|
brand | Diamond Naturals | Ketona | Ketogenic Pet Foods |
type | Dry | Dry | Dry |
size | 40 lbs | 24.2 lbs | 18 lbs |
flavor | Lamb / Rice | Chicken | Chicken |
life stage | Adult | Adult | All ages |
calories | 342 kcal / cup | 452 kcal / cup | Not specified |
balanced nutrition | Yes | Yes | Yes |
high-quality proteins | Yes | Yes | Yes |
natural ingredients | Yes | Yes | Not specified |
vitamins & minerals | Yes | Yes | Yes |
low carbohydrates | Yes | Yes | Yes |
fibers | Yes | Yes | Yes |
grain-free | No | Yes | Yes |
artificial preservatives | No | No | Yes |
easy to digest | Yes | Yes | Yes |
Summary
Their all-natural formula includes real lamb meal, chicken fat, peas, coconut, spinach, carrots, flaxseed, and many other whole ingredients.
Diamond Naturals Real Meat Recipe Premium Dry Dog Food is as good as it gets. If you want top-quality dog food, feed your pup a Diamond quality meal.
With Diamond Naturals, their long list of delicious ingredients is enough to convince anyone. Their all-natural formula includes real lamb meal, chicken fat, peas, coconut, spinach, carrots, flaxseed, and many other whole ingredients. In addition to natural vitamins and minerals, this formula provides the ideal amount of omega fatty acids, probiotics, and all those other things you never knew your dog needed.
This formula is ideal for adult and older dogs because it promotes a healthy coat, skin, and strong muscles, where other blends would otherwise not. For all the deliciousness your dog craves, and the health you cherish, choose Diamond Naturals.
Buying Guide
All Natural Ingredients
You don’t want to feed your dog anything that is going to back up their system or cause them health issues.
The best way to prevent that from becoming an issue is to find pet food that is made entirely from natural ingredients. While you don’t necessarily need to go organic (because that can get pricey), you at least want to look at the label and ensure that the ingredients are natural and recognizable.
Age-Specific Food
You always want to get your hands on age-specific food if possible. You never want to feed puppy food to an adult dog, because puppies and adults have different needs. Obviously, you won’t get something for every year of your dog’s life, but using the terms “puppy”, “adult”, and “senior” can be helpful.
There are some brands that offer all-ages nutrition, and they’re fairly universal in the amount of protein, carbs, and other nutrients that they offer.
How Active Is Your Dog?
If you have an especially active dog, you want to ensure that they have around 25% of their diet as protein, and around 15-20 percent as carbohydrates. There are many “high protein” and “high performance” options on the market that are perfect for active dogs.
On the other hand, if your dog isn’t very active, it’s essential to provide them a balanced diet, with as little fat and carbs as possible. This can help to control their weight and give them energy for the day.
Dog’s Size
Your dog’s size also plays a significant role in what type of food they need. Alongside of age, you will often see that some blends are meant for different sized dogs (15 lbs. or less, 15 to 30 lbs., 30 lbs. to 60 lbs., 60+ lbs. are the most common). Small dogs have smaller bites and they need more calories per pound than their larger counterparts.
It’s important to note that “food for small dogs” is often quite different nutritionally (fewer calories and less protein) than “food for puppies”, and you want to choose accordingly.
Balanced Diet
You always want to find the best complete dog food. Dogs are omnivores, and in order to have the healthiest diet, you want their food to have a solid blend of protein, fruits, veggies, and grains.
Keep your eyes out at the percentages. While dogs do want grain in their diets, you want to be sure that they are whole grain and you don’t want it to be more than 10% to 15% of the total in the dog food. Grains help to give dry dog food their crunch and shape, and they help your dog to get healthy carbs.
First Ingredient on the Label
Just like with human food, you want to look at the ingredients closely and see what the first ingredient is on the label. This will tell you what the manufacturer considers to be the primary ingredient in the food.
Avoid options that advertise a grain or a vegetable as the first ingredient. There is one exception; if you notice that the ingredients list several different types of animal parts from the same animal (for example, chicken, chicken meal, chicken by-products), the main ingredient may be that.
Named Ingredients
If there are specific ingredients named in the advertising, then it’s important for you to understand what the wording means for that particular type of dog food. The best dog foods on the market will adhere to the FDA’s naming processes.
For example, if a food is called “beef dog food”, then beef (and beef by-products) is 70% or more of the product. “Beef dinner”, “beef platter” and “beef entrée” all mean that at least 10% of the food contains beef. The phrase “with beef” means that 3% or more of that food is beef. This naming works the same for any other meat you’ll find in dog food.
AAFCO Dog Nutrient Approval
Looking for specific certifications from appropriate boards or organizations is also really helpful as you explore the type of dog food that you want to buy.
The Association of American Feed Control Officials (or the AAFCO) is the most well-known. If a dog food has this label on it, then the AAFCO has confirmed that the food has complete and balanced nutrition. They do multiple layers of dog food analysis in order to ensure that anything with their label has everything Fido needs to be healthy.
Size of Kibble
The best dry dog food kibble choice will vary based on your dog’s needs. In general, smaller dogs and puppies are going to want to have smaller kibble, because it’s easier to chew and they are less likely to choke on the food.
Older dogs may find it easier to chew smaller kibble, especially if they are missing some of their teeth or they have gum problems. Many options for older dogs will also have softer kibble so that they can chew it more easily.
Fresh vs. Processed
As you explore the best dog food brands, you will find that there is a big debate over whether you should get fresh food or processed food. Is one of them truly better than the other?
Thankfully, with modern processing methods, regular processed foods are much healthier than they used to be. But, many pet parents want to have as much control as possible over what food is going into their dog’s body. In those cases, fresh food is typically a better option.
Recommended Serving Sizes
During your dog food evaluation, you want to ensure that the food you choose is going to have a complete nutrition profile, but you want to be sure that they have the right serving size associated with it, as well.
For a 20 pound dog, you want somewhere between 1 and 2 cups of food. For each additional 20 lbs., you want the serving size to be half a cup to a full cup more, until you hit 100 lbs. At 100 pounds, you probably want your dog to have at least 5 cups so that they are full.
Is Your Dog Pregnant?
During pregnancy, dogs have very different needs for their nutrition. It’s not just them anymore, and they need to have energy to get through their day. Low fiber, 17% fat or more, and 30% protein or more should be in there.
When your dog is nursing, get the most nutrition dense food you can. This is one of the few cases where age won’t matter; in fact, many breeders will feed their nursing dogs puppy food so they have the best nutrients and can pass that on in their milk.
Water Content
Sometimes, dry dog food brands cheat a little bit by putting way too much water in the food. That’s why it’s important to look at the label – if water is near the top of the ingredients list, then you may be better off avoiding it. You want it to be around 10% water, unless it’s a moist food (like what you’d find for seniors), then you want it to be 25% or less.
In the case of wet food, you want there to be a high water content. Some of these will be in a gravy or sauce, and could be around 75% water content as a result.
Preventing Obesity
For many dogs, especially as they get older, it can be difficult to maintain a healthy weight. Because of that, many senior foods will have a lot of protein and fewer “unhealthy” fats associated with them.
As you look at options for weight-loss or maintaining a dog’s weight, look for “long chain omega mega-3 polyunsaturated fatty acids with either DHA or EPA”. These are healthy fats that help dogs of all ages to have better joint health and fewer obesity issues.
Skin and Fur Issues
We don’t think about dog food being good for skin, but the nutrients can be. If your dog has really sensitive skin, look for foods with turkey, chicken, sweet potatoes, or other foods that have a high amount of Vitamin E.
Fish is also a really solid option if your dog’s fur and skin aren’t as healthy as they could be. Some of the best dog food for fur and skin problems has salmon as a main ingredient.
Frequently Asked Questions
What do I do if my dog has food allergies?
If you’re noticing that your dog is losing weight, throwing up, or getting hives, you may want to explore some new options for their food. Your vet may be able to help you to determine what is causing your dog to have these allergic reactions, as well.
Most commonly, you’ll need to find a dog food with no grain because grain is the most common food allergy you’ll find in dogs. You may also need to avoid certain vegetables and fruits, depending on your dog’s sensitivity.
Is feeding my dog raw a good option?
Many families don’t look at dog food ratings, but instead go with a raw diet for their pet. Since our dogs originally came from wolves, this isn’t a bad idea if you do it correctly.
If you decide to feed your dog a raw diet, you want to ensure that they get more than meat. The amount of raw meat they get is typically based on how much your dog weighs. Then, you want to supplement that with fruits, vegetables, and other nutritious foods that can help them get all the nutrients they need.
Can my vet help with the best options for my dog?
Absolutely! Many vets are experts at dog nutrition, and they can give you all sorts of options for vet recommended dog food that is healthy for your dog and that they may enjoy as part of their diet.
Talk with your vet about your dog’s specific needs and see what they recommend. They may recommend a diet that is a combination of different types of food, or they may have a dry food and/or wet food that they often recommend to their clients.
Should I feed my dog canned food or dry food?
That’s totally up to you. Many dry foods and canned wet foods have similar levels of nutrition, so you can put together a fairly balanced diet out of either or both.
Most of the time, it comes down to preference. Some dogs don’t like the texture of one or the other. Or, maybe you don’t like dealing with canned food or its smell. Canned food can also be more expensive than dry food, so you may want to take that into consideration.
I’ve heard about diet rotation – what is it and is it worthwhile?
Diet rotation is when you are changing your dog’s food daily, weekly, and/or monthly so they get the most complete nutrition profile possible. It’s based on the fact that no dog food is perfect, so varying what they eat gives them maximum nutrition.
It can be a great idea, unless you have a dog with a sensitive stomach. In those cases, you may want to stick to dog food for sensitive stomachs and provide them with the same food on a daily basis.
Sources
- Pet Food Safety: Healthy Pets, Healthy People, Centers for Disease Control & Prevention
- Pet Food, U.S. Food & Drug Administration, Aug 1, 2018
- Pet food that makes your dog live longer?, Federal Trade Commission, Aug 4, 2016
- Tips for Safe Handling of Pet Food and Treats, U.S. Food & Drug Administration, Oct 19, 2017
- Dog food, Wikipedia
- Evaluation of storage mite contamination of commercial dry dog food, National Institutes of Health, Aug 19, 2018
- Pet food (wet), Transportation Security Administration
- Best Food for Your Pet, Clinical Nutrition Service at Cummings School
- What to Look for on a Pet Food Label, Veterinary Medicine at Illinois, Jan 22, 2018
- Mercury levels in pet food to be studied in new University project, University of Nevada, Reno, Jul 17, 2018