The 12 Best Dog Foods-2025

iHeartDogs is reader-supported. When you buy via links on our site, we may earn an affiliate commission at no extra cost to you.

Finding the best dog food for your beloved pup can feel overwhelming with the sheer number of options available. From kibble to raw diets and grain-free to specialty formulas, the choices can leave any dog parent scratching their head. But no matter how confusing it gets, one thing remains true: we all want the very best for our furry family members. That’s why we’ve done the research and gathered a list of top-rated dog foods that our pups absolutely adore and now, we’re sharing it with you! Consider this your guide to simplifying the search for high-quality, nutritious dog food that your pup will love.

Because let’s be honest, our dogs aren’t just pets; they’re family. Their wagging tails and unconditional love brighten our days, and in return, we want to give them long, happy, and healthy lives. The food they eat plays a huge role in their overall health, energy, and longevity, which is why choosing the right diet is one of the most important decisions you can make as a dog parent. Whether it’s keeping their coat shiny, supporting their joint health, or ensuring they live as many joyful years as possible by your side, your pup deserves the very best. And when you see them thriving, you’ll know it was worth every effort to find the perfect food.

Best Dog Foods for 2025

• Made with 95% raw, cage-free chicken, organs, and bone
• Single-source protein, making it great for dogs with sensitivities
• Includes organic fruits and vegetables
• Free from peas, lentils, grains, and potatoes
• Enhanced with taurine, probiotics, and antioxidants
• Complete & balanced for all life stages

 

Stella & Chewy’s Chicken Dinner Patties offer a convenient way to feed your dog a raw diet, without the refrigeration or mess. Made with 95% cage-free chicken (including nutrient-rich organs and bone), this limited-ingredient recipe is ideal for dogs with food sensitivities or allergies. It’s fortified with taurine, probiotics, antioxidants, and organic fruits and vegetables to support whole-body health. Free from grains, legumes, and artificial additives, these freeze-dried patties can be served as-is or simply rehydrated for dogs who prefer wet food. Like all Stella & Chewy’s raw recipes, it’s proudly made in the USA using responsibly sourced ingredients that mimic what dogs would naturally eat in the wild. 

• First 5 ingredients are USDA-certified proteins and vegetables
• Made with 11 simple, whole-food ingredients
• Supports digestion, joints, skin, and coat health
• Human-grade, raw, and biologically appropriate
• Free from fillers, additives, and preservatives

When it comes to choosing the best dog food for your furry companion, Maev Raw Dog Food is a standout option. As a human-grade, raw food brand, Maev prioritizes nutrient-rich, unprocessed ingredients that align with your dog’s natural diet. Packed with benefits like improved digestion, a shinier coat, increased energy, and better joint health, Maev addresses your dog’s well-being from every angle. Their recipes are free from fillers and artificial additives, making them ideal for dogs with allergies, sensitivities, or weight issues. Plus, with tailored meal plans and pre-portioned deliveries, Maev combines premium nutrition with ultimate convenience—because your dog deserves nothing but the best.

• No fillers. Just quality proteins, veggies, vitamins, and minerals 
• Pre-portioned meals based on your dog’s unique dietary needs
• Formulated by Board Certified Veterinary Nutritionists
  
• Prepared, mixed, and packed in USA kitchens
• Shipped to you fresh, cold, and on your schedule

Instead of throwing all the ingredients in one giant vat that steams away so much nutritional content, Nom Nom gently cooks every meat and veggie individually. Ingredients are mixed in batches to seal in vital nutrients and maximize digestibility. Their ingredients and nutrition info are posted on their website, so you can see just what you’re feeding your dog. Nom Nom ships cold, fresh, pre-portioned meals anywhere in the lower 48 states on your schedule.

50% Off First Order Plus Free Shipping

• Minimally processed with no added hormones or antibiotics
• Slow-cooked at low temperatures in small batches
• Free from corn, wheat, and soy
• Made in US facilities from carefully sourced, human-grade ingredients

Ollie can always be trusted to deliver high-quality, nutritious meals containing only carefully sourced ingredients from trusted farms. And because these dog food experts slow-cook foods at low temperatures in small batches, their recipes maintain maximum nutrition from human-grade, high-quality chicken, beef, turkey, and lamb, as well as superfoods such as fish oil and chia seeds. When you buy a meal plan, you can set a regular schedule that sees vacuum-sealed food packages delivered right to your door, so your pup always has a fresh meal at the ready. Ollie recipes are veterinarian-formulated and made in the USA.

60% Off First Box with code IHDOGS60

Related: Top Dog Food Brands With No Recalls

• Can choose from recipes or get personalized meals
• Designed by canine nutritionists
• Shipped to your door as often as you choose (or offered at some stores)
• Made in open-to-the-public kitchens
• Made with human-grade ingredients and no preservatives

JustFoodForDogs is one of the best fresh dog food companies for variety. They offer many unique recipes, including options for dogs with special needs, like puppies, large breed dogs, dogs with sensitive skin, and dogs that need to lose weight. They can also create a custom diet for your dog through a free consultation with their veterinary nutrition team.

Board-certified veterinarians and certified canine nutritionists design all JustFoodForDogs products, and every meal is prepared in kitchens that are open to the public and meet USDA food safety standards. Curious pet parents can visit these facilities to watch their dog’s food being made from start to finish.

In each recipe, you can see a colorful assortment of healthy ingredients, including whole meats, vegetables, and grains—with no by-products, artificial preservatives, or fillers. Popular choices like Chicken & White Rice, Beef & Russet Potato, and Fish & Sweet Potato are not only visually appealing but also proven to be highly digestible, promoting better nutrient absorption and overall health.

JustFoodForDogs is also recognized as the #1 vet-recommended fresh pet food brand in the U.S., based on a survey of nearly 16,000 veterinarians, and is the only fresh pet food company investing over $1 million into ongoing canine nutrition research.

Free Shipping on Frozen and Non-Frozen Orders $99+

• Home-cooked meals at the touch of a button
• Nutritious vet-formulated recipes 
• Includes USDA-certified proteins, whole grains, fruits & veggies
• Shelf-stable meals require no freezer or refrigeration
• Artie appliance perfectly cooks meals in 3 minutes

Feeding your dog warm, home-cooked meals has never been easier thanks to Artie! This innovative system prepares personalized, vet-developed meals at the touch of a button in just 3 minutes. After a quick online quiz, Artie builds a custom meal plan with pre-portioned meals made from USDA-certified meats, whole grains, and real fruits and veggies in flavorful bone broth. Meals are shelf-stable and steamed to the perfect Prey Temperature™ of 95-105°F. With free delivery direct to your door and zero prep or mess, Artie makes it simple to serve nutritious, home-style meals your pup will crave every single day.

Get 60% off your first box with code IHEARTDOGS60. Shipping is always free.

• Customized meal plans based on breed, age, and needs
• Delivered fresh (not frozen) in fridge-friendly, easy-pour bags
• Created by veterinary nutritionists 
• Made with fresh meat, fiber-rich vegetables, and whole grains
• Free from preservatives and artificial fillers

Feeding your dog fresh, nutritious meals has never been easier thanks to Freshpet. It’s a convenient, tailored service from the nation’s #1 fresh pet food brand. As the delivery arm of the nation’s #1 fresh pet food brand, Freshpet offers vet-designed, gently cooked meals made from 100% farm-raised meats, fiber-rich veggies, and whole grains, no powdered meat, fillers, or preservatives. With personalized meal plans based on your dog’s unique profile, Freshpet Delivery makes it easy to serve real food your pup will love. Each order arrives in easy-to-store, ready-to-serve bags that go straight in the fridge, not the freezer, so there’s no prep, no mess, and no guesswork. It’s fresh food, delivered with care, and designed for real life.

Get 50% off your first order, and always enjoy FREE Shipping with Freshpet Delivery!

• Made with whole ingredients
• Gently dried to maintain flavor and nutrients
• Shipped to your door and available in some stores
• Superherbs for joint, immunity, and digestive support
• Only made with human-grade, USDA-certified ingredients

A Pup Above uses sous vide cooking to preserve the flavor and nutrients of its food. Fresh food options come in beef, pork, turkey, or chicken. You’ll determine how many patties to give your dog based on your dog’s weight. When you receive the food, you can let it thaw in the fridge overnight before your dog’s next meal. A veterinary nutritionist creates all the formulas, so your adult dog gets all the nutrition they need. Looking for something a little more shelf-stable? A Pup Above’s Dry Food is high-quality kibble you can feel good about feeding to your pup!

Try A Pup Above and get $50 off your first order of $100 or more with code IHEARTDOGS.

---

• Made with 100% human-grade ingredients
• Whole grains
• Careful cooking method maintains nutrients, aroma, and taste of ingredients
• No artificial preservatives, feed-grade by-products, fillers, GMO ingredients, corn, wheat or soy

With a whole line of dehydrated dog foods, your pup will have so many choices when it comes to mealtime! When you scroll The Honest Kitchen’s dehydrated dog foods page, you’ll find whole grain, grain-free, gourmet grains, and limited ingredient recipes with whole meats like ranch-raised beef, free-range chicken, turkey, fish, or duck. And these quality proteins are combined with fresh vegetables and fruits to provide dogs with the vitamins and minerals that help keep their bodies healthy.

And if you’re kicking around the idea of becoming a chef for your dog, you can choose. The Honest Kitchen Dehydrated Dog Food helps you ease into cooking dog food. Simply add warm water and your own source of protein to the mix, and you’ve made your pup a tasty meal! The Honest Kitchen provides a variety so large that even the pickiest eater will be hard-pressed to turn up their nose.

At a Glance:

• Made with 100% human-grade ingredients and produced in a human food facility
• Prepared in small batches and gently cooked to maintain nutrients, taste, and aroma
• Made in the USA with US & globally sourced ingredients
• No feed-grade ingredients, rendered meat meals, fillers, GMO ingredients, potatoes, legumes, artificial flavors, or artificial preservatives
• Delivers concentrated nutrition—a 10lb box makes 40 lbs of food
• AAFCO Statement: All Honest Kitchen complete & balanced dog food recipes are formulated to meet the nutritional levels established by AAFCO. Plus, The Honest Kitchen successfully completed in-home, comprehensive AAFCO Feeding Trials that substantiate their foods provide nutritional adequacy and overall health in dogs.

Get 15% off your first order using code WELCOME15!

---

• Over 90% fresh meat, organs, and bones
• Human-grade ingredients
• Vet-formulated
• Beneficial for picky pups and sensitive stomachs
• Comes in beef, chicken, or turkey

Sunday for Dogs offers air-dried dog food made with human-grade ingredients, giving your pup the nutrition of fresh food with the convenience of kibble. Their recipes, including beef, chicken, and turkey, are gently air-dried to lock in nutrients and flavor. Since there’s no need for refrigeration, it’s easy to store and serve. Every formula is vet-crafted using real, whole foods without artificial preservatives or fillers, ensuring a healthy, digestible meal for your dog. If you’re looking for a shelf-stable alternative to fresh food, Sunday for Dogs provides a high-quality option you can feel confident feeding.

Get 40% OFF your order with code IHEARTDOGS

For more great options for puppies, see our list of the Best Puppy Dog Foods.

---

• Patties are made from only meat, organ, and bone
• No fillers, grains, artificial ingredients, or colors
• Complete & balanced raw meals are nutritionist formulated and vet approved
• Sourced from USDA, human-grade meats
• FREE cold-shipping nationwide

We Feed Raw creates meal plans that cater to your dog’s needs. They offer raw dog food in several proteins, including chicken, beef, turkey, duck, lamb, and venison. All the formulas are created by a PhD animal nutritionist who has over 30 years of experience in the industry. We Feed Raw’s food ships cold, and it can stay fresh in the refrigerator for up to four days. In the freezer, it can last for up to six months.

New customers save 25% on a subscription with code IHEARTDOGS35

---

• Vet-formulated recipes by Dr. Karen Becker
• High-protein, low-carb limited-ingredient options
• Made with human-grade ingredients in USDA-inspected facilities
• Every batch lab-tested for safety
• Sample boxes & custom meal plans available

Raised Right is a family-owned human-grade dog food company that works with veterinarian Dr. Karen Becker and pet food formulation expert Steve Brown to formulate limited-ingredient recipes that are high in protein and low in carbs. They were able to formulate their adult dog recipes to meet AAFCO’s requirements for a complete & balanced diet by using ONLY whole foods without having to add any synthetic vitamins or minerals to create the best dog food they can. All of their adult dog recipes have 10 ingredients or fewer, with some having as few as just 7 or 8 ingredients!

Sign up for Raised Right’s email list to receive 20% off your first Full Box (16 Bags)

Take a look at a complete list of the Best Fresh Dog Foods!

Buyer’s Guide: How to Choose the Best Dog Food

Selecting the best dog food for your pup involves more than just picking a well-known brand—it’s about ensuring they get the right nutrition for their unique needs. Here are the key factors to consider when choosing the best dog food:

1. High-Quality Protein Sources

Protein is essential for muscle development, energy, and overall health. Look for dog foods that list real meat, fish, or poultry as the first ingredient, rather than by-products or fillers. Lean proteins like chicken, turkey, beef, salmon, and lamb provide essential amino acids for strong muscles and a healthy immune system.

2. Nutritional Balance & Essential Ingredients

A complete and balanced diet should include the right mix of proteins, healthy fats, fiber, vitamins, and minerals. Ingredients like omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids support skin and coat health, while antioxidants from fruits and vegetables help boost immunity. Look for foods with probiotics and fiber to aid digestion.

3. Avoid Harmful Fillers & Artificial Additives

Many low-quality dog foods contain corn, wheat, soy, and artificial preservatives that provide little nutritional value and can trigger allergies. Opt for wholesome, natural ingredients free from artificial colors, flavors, and preservatives to ensure your dog gets clean, healthy nutrition.

4. Special Dietary Needs & Food Sensitivities

If your dog has allergies, a sensitive stomach, or health conditions like joint issues, kidney disease, or heart problems, choose a diet formulated to support those needs. Limited-ingredient diets, grain-free options, and novel proteins (such as duck or venison) can be beneficial for dogs with food sensitivities.

5. Wet, Dry, Raw, or Fresh? Choosing the Right Type

Dog food comes in various forms, including dry kibble, wet food, raw diets, and fresh-cooked meals. Kibble is convenient and long-lasting, while wet food provides hydration and can be easier for senior dogs to chew. Raw and fresh dog foods offer minimally processed nutrition but require proper handling and storage. Consider your dog’s preferences, lifestyle, and dietary needs when selecting the best type.

6. Brand Reputation & Customer Reviews

Researching brands and reading customer reviews can provide insight into ingredient quality, sourcing, and safety standards. Look for brands that conduct third-party testing and follow AAFCO (Association of American Feed Control Officials) guidelines to ensure a safe and nutritionally complete product.

By considering these factors, you can confidently choose the best dog food to support your pup’s health, energy, and longevity!

Frequently Asked Questions About the Best Dog Foods

1. What should I look for in a high-quality dog food?

A high-quality dog food should contain real, recognizable ingredients, including high-protein sources like meat, poultry, or fish. Look for whole-food ingredients, essential vitamins and minerals, and avoid artificial preservatives, fillers, and by-products. Omega fatty acids, probiotics, and fiber-rich vegetables are also great additions for overall health.

2. Should I choose grain-free dog food?

Grain-free diets can be beneficial for dogs with grain allergies or sensitivities, but they aren’t necessary for every pup. Whole grains like brown rice, quinoa, and oats can provide essential nutrients and fiber. Consult your vet to determine if a grain-free diet is right for your dog’s specific needs.

3. Is wet food or dry food better for my dog?

Both wet and dry food have their advantages. Dry kibble is convenient, helps with dental health, and tends to be more budget-friendly. Wet food is more hydrating and often more palatable for picky eaters. Some dog parents choose to mix both for the best of both worlds!

4. How do I know if my dog has food allergies or sensitivities?

Common signs of food allergies or sensitivities include itchy skin, excessive licking, ear infections, digestive issues (like diarrhea or vomiting), and chronic gas. If you suspect your dog has a food allergy, consult your vet to identify the trigger and find a suitable diet.

5. What ingredients should I avoid in dog food?

Avoid artificial preservatives (BHA, BHT, ethoxyquin), artificial colors and flavors, meat by-products, excessive fillers like corn and wheat, and high amounts of salt or sugar. These additives provide little nutritional value and can contribute to health issues over time.

Related: Nom Nom vs Farmer’s Dog Fresh Dog Food Comparison

6. How do I transition my dog to a new food?

To avoid digestive upset, transition your dog gradually over 7–10 days. Start by mixing 25% of the new food with 75% of the old food, then slowly increase the new food while decreasing the old. Monitor your pup for any signs of stomach discomfort during the transition.

7. How much should I feed my dog?

Feeding amounts vary based on your dog’s age, size, breed, activity level, and the calorie content of the food. Always follow the feeding guidelines on the food package and adjust as needed. Your vet can also provide guidance on portion sizes to maintain a healthy weight.

8. Is homemade dog food better than store-bought?

Homemade dog food can be healthy if properly balanced, but it requires careful planning to ensure your dog gets all the necessary nutrients. Many commercial dog foods are formulated by veterinary nutritionists to meet all of your dog’s dietary needs. If you prefer homemade meals, consult a vet to ensure the diet is nutritionally complete.

Choose The Best Dog Food For Your Dog

The best dog food isn’t just about high-quality ingredients. It’s about finding the perfect balance of nutrition and taste that keeps your pup healthy, happy, and excited for mealtime. Every dog is unique, with different dietary needs and flavor preferences, so choosing the right food is a deeply personal decision. But one thing is certain: our furry family members deserve food that fuels their bodies and brings them joy. With this carefully curated list of top-rated dog foods, you’re one step closer to finding the perfect match for your pup, so let the tail-wagging taste tests begin!

iHeartDogs is reader-supported. When you buy via links on our site, we may earn an affiliate commission at no extra cost to you.