8 Best Dog Foods without Corn, Wheat & Soy

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In the realm of canine nutrition, there’s an increasing awareness of potential allergens and dietary sensitivities that dogs might encounter. Among the common culprits are corn, wheat, and soy—ingredients traditionally found in many commercial dog foods. With growing concern over these ingredients, many pet owners are on the hunt for high-quality alternatives. This article dives deep into the best dog foods without corn, wheat, and soy, ensuring your furry friend gets the nutrition they need minus the potential irritants.

ORIJEN Original Dry Dog Food is a grain-free option designed to support the overall health and well-being of dogs at any stage of life. It contains fresh or raw ingredients and is formulated to enhance immune function, and digestion, and maintain healthy skin and coat. The recipe includes high-quality animal proteins, vitamins, and minerals derived primarily from free-run chicken and turkey, as well as flounder, mackerel, and chicken liver. This dry dog food is manufactured in the USA using ingredients sourced from around the globe.

BIXBI Rawbble Dry Dog Food is a minimally processed dog food made with fresh meat, with no meat meal, corn, soy, or wheat. It is freeze-dried and coated with raw ingredients for superior digestibility and maximum protein absorption. This grain-free and gluten-free dog food is ideal for dogs on a limited-ingredient diet or for those who prefer to feed their pet with whole-food nutrition. Additionally, BIXBI Rawbble is proudly made in the USA using fresh USDA-inspected meat.

The Rachael Ray Nutrish Limited Ingredient Diet Lamb Meal & Brown Rice Recipe is a dry dog food that comes in a 6-pound bag. It contains only 6 ingredients, including lamb meal, with added vitamins, minerals, taurine, and other nutrients. The food is free from fillers, artificial flavors, colors, and artificial preservatives, and it is cooked in the USA using high-quality ingredients.

Wellness CORE Grain-Free High-Protein Dry Dog Food is a premium dog food option made in the USA. It is made with real meat, specifically whitefish, herring, and salmon, and does not contain any grains. The product is designed to provide the essential nutrients dogs need to thrive, support lean body mass and muscle tone, promote a healthy coat and digestive health, and is free from fillers and artificial ingredients.

The NUTRO NATURAL CHOICE Adult Dry Dog Food is a 30 lb. bag of kibble suitable for dogs 1 year and older. The main ingredient is real chicken and it does not contain any chicken by-product meal, corn, wheat, or soy. This dog food is formulated to support healthy immunity and digestion, as well as promote healthy skin and a shiny coat with omega-3 and -6 fatty acids. The product is cooked in USA facilities using high-quality ingredients sourced from around the world.

Taste of the Wild High Prairie Canine Grain-Free Recipe is a dry dog food made with real roasted bison and venison as the main ingredients. With a high protein content of 32%, it aims to support the development of strong muscles and bones. It also includes vitamins, minerals, omega fatty acids, and probiotics from fruits and superfoods to promote healthy digestion, a strong immune system, and a shiny coat. The product is made by a family-owned company in the USA using quality ingredients from trusted sources.

Blue Buffalo Basics Skin & Stomach Care is a grain-free dry dog food that helps support gentle digestion in dogs. It features real salmon as the main source of protein, along with potatoes, peas, and pumpkin. The limited ingredient formula excludes common allergens such as chicken, beef, corn, wheat, soy, dairy, and eggs, making it suitable for dogs with food sensitivities. Additionally, it contains a blend of antioxidants, vitamins, and minerals to support immune system health and overall well-being.

VICTOR Super Premium Dog Food – Hi-Pro Plus Dry Dog Food is a gluten-free and high-protein option for active dogs and puppies. It contains a nutrient-dense, multi-meat formula that provides sustained energy for sporting dogs and those with high physical demands. This dog food is suitable for dogs of all life stages, including pregnant dogs, lactating females, and puppies. VICTOR’s proprietary VPRO blend of supplements, vitamins, and minerals is included to maximize the genetic potential of every dog. Made in the USA, the ingredients are sourced from trusted suppliers within a day’s drive of the Texas-based facility.

What Are The Benefits of Dog Foods with No Corn, Wheat, & Soy?

Choosing dog foods without corn, wheat, and soy can offer several benefits for your canine companion:

1. Reduced Allergens and Sensitivities: Some dogs can develop allergies or sensitivities to these ingredients. Manifestations might include skin irritations, itching, digestive upset, and ear infections. Removing these potential allergens can alleviate these symptoms.
2. Higher-Quality Protein Sources: Foods that avoid corn, wheat, and soy often use higher-quality protein sources like chicken, beef, fish, or lamb. These proteins are more biologically appropriate and easily digestible for dogs.
3. Fewer Fillers: Corn, wheat, and soy are often used as fillers in many commercial dog foods. These filters can dilute the nutritional content of the food. By selecting foods without these ingredients, you’re likely getting a more nutrient-dense product.
4. Lower Glycemic Index: Especially in the case of corn, these ingredients can elevate the glycemic index of the food, leading to quicker spikes in blood sugar. Foods without these ingredients can help in maintaining a more stable blood sugar level, beneficial especially for dogs at risk of diabetes.
5. Better Digestibility: Some dogs find it harder to digest grains or soy-based proteins. A diet free from these ingredients can lead to better digestive health, fewer stomach upsets, and more consistent stools.
6. Improved Skin and Coat Health: Higher-quality foods without these potential irritants often promote healthier skin and a shinier coat due to the inclusion of better protein sources and essential fatty acids.

In conclusion, while not all dogs need to avoid corn, wheat, and soy, there are clear benefits for those that do. Always consult with a veterinarian or a pet nutritionist when considering dietary changes for your dog.

What Else Should I Consider When Purchasing a Wheat-Free, Corn-Free, and Soy-Free Dog Food

1. Whole Protein Sources: Ensure the primary ingredient is a high-quality, whole protein source like chicken, beef, lamb, or fish. Protein should be the foundation of any dog food.
2. Other Carbohydrates: Just because a dog food doesn’t have wheat, corn, or soy doesn’t mean it’s grain-free. Look for wholesome carbohydrate sources like sweet potatoes, peas, or brown rice. Some grains, such as quinoa or barley, can be nutritious additions.
3. No Artificial Additives: Good dog food shouldn’t contain artificial colors, flavors, or preservatives. Natural preservatives like tocopherols (Vitamin E) or ascorbic acid (Vitamin C) are preferable.
4. Healthy Fats: Check for sources of Omega-3 and Omega-6 fatty acids, such as flaxseed or fish oil. These promote healthy skin, a shiny coat, and overall good health.
5. Probiotics and Fiber: Quality dog food should have ingredients that promote digestive health. Look for the inclusion of probiotics (beneficial bacteria) and fiber-rich ingredients like beet pulp or pumpkin.
6. Avoid Fillers and By-products: Even without corn, wheat, or soy, some dog foods might contain other fillers or meat by-products that aren’t nutritionally beneficial. Always read the label thoroughly.
7. Life Stage and Activity Level: Ensure the food is suitable for your dog’s age, breed, size, and activity level. Puppies, seniors, lactating mothers, and high-energy dogs have different nutritional needs.
8. Certifications: Look for any certifications on the label that might indicate quality, such as non-GMO, organic, or certifications from recognized animal nutrition organizations.
9. Reviews and Recommendations: Sometimes, other pet owners’ experiences can be invaluable. Look for reviews online or ask for recommendations from your vet, pet stores, or fellow dog owners.
10. Recall History: Before finalizing your choice, do a quick check on the brand’s history. Brands with frequent recalls might indicate potential quality control issues.

In essence, when selecting wheat-free, corn-free, and soy-free dog food, it’s crucial to consider the overall nutrition profile of the product. Just removing these three ingredients doesn’t automatically make dog food superior. Always aim for a balanced, high-quality diet for your furry friend.

Related: Top 13 Dog Food Brands Without Recalls

Frequently Asked Questions About Dog Foods Without Corn, Wheat & Soy

1. Why should I avoid corn, wheat, and soy in my dog’s food?
   Avoiding corn, wheat, and soy can benefit dogs with food sensitivities, allergies, or digestive issues. These ingredients are often used as fillers in low-quality dog foods and may not provide the optimal nutrition your dog needs.

2. What are the best alternative ingredients to corn, wheat, and soy in dog food?
   Look for dog foods made with high-quality protein sources such as chicken, beef, lamb, or fish. Carbohydrate alternatives like sweet potatoes, brown rice, peas, and oats are also excellent and more digestible for many dogs.

3. Can corn, wheat, and soy cause allergies in dogs?
   Yes, while not all dogs are allergic, corn, wheat, and soy are common allergens in dogs. Symptoms may include itching, ear infections, skin irritations, and digestive problems.

4. Is grain-free dog food the same as food without corn, wheat, and soy?
   Not necessarily. Grain-free means it doesn’t contain any grains (like rice, oats, or barley), but some grain-free foods may still include soy or other legumes. Always check the label for specific ingredients if you’re avoiding corn, wheat, and soy.

5. What breeds benefit most from a corn-, wheat-, and soy-free diet?
   Breeds prone to allergies or sensitive stomachs—such as Bulldogs, Boxers, Retrievers, and German Shepherds—often benefit from diets without these common allergens. However, any dog may thrive on a cleaner, more natural diet.

6. Are dog foods without corn, wheat, and soy more expensive?
   They can be slightly more expensive due to the use of higher-quality ingredients, but many pet owners find the investment worth it for better overall health, fewer vet visits, and improved digestion.

7. How can I transition my dog to a new food without corn, wheat, or soy?
   Transition slowly over 7–10 days by mixing increasing amounts of the new food with the old. This gradual change helps avoid digestive upset and allows your dog’s system to adjust smoothly.

Conclusion: Best Dog Foods without Corn, Wheat & Soy

Choosing the right diet for your dog is paramount in ensuring its health, vitality, and longevity. As we’ve seen, there’s no shortage of quality options when it comes to dog foods free from corn, wheat, and soy. By opting for these alternatives, you’re taking a proactive step towards minimizing potential allergens and sensitivities in your pet’s diet. Always remember to consult with your veterinarian when making significant changes to your dog’s food, ensuring a transition that’s smooth and beneficial for your loyal companion.

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