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Top 8 Best Healthy Dog Food For Optimal Canine Health In 2023

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Selecting the appropriate dietary choice for your pet can feel overwhelming, especially when trying to decide on the optimal dog food for their overall health. The numerous options available can make it difficult to identify the ideal starting point. Yet, offering your dog a nourishing, superior quality food is crucial to maintaining their overall health and vitality.

When it comes to selecting the best healthy dog food, there are several critical factors to consider. First and foremost, you want to look for a product that is made from high-quality ingredients, such as whole meats, vegetables, and grains. Additionally, you'll want to ensure that the food is free from artificial preservatives, colors, and flavors, as these can be harmful to your dog's health.

Another important consideration when selecting the best healthy dog food is your pet's specific dietary needs. For example, if your dog has allergies or sensitivities, you'll want to look for a product that is specifically formulated to address these issues. Similarly, if your dog is overweight or has other health concerns, you may need to choose a food that is lower in calories or has specific nutritional benefits.

At the end of the day, finding the best healthy dog food for your pet is all about doing your research, reading labels, and consulting with your veterinarian. With so many options available, it can be overwhelming to navigate the world of dog food. However, by taking the time to find the right product for your pet, you can help ensure that they stay healthy and happy for years to come.

Best Healthy Dog Food

We all want our furry friends to be healthy and happy, and one of the most important factors in achieving this is through their diet. With so many options on the market, it can be difficult to determine which dog food brands are truly healthy and nutritious. That's why we've done the research and compiled a list of the best healthy dog food options available. These brands prioritize high-quality ingredients and avoid harmful additives, ensuring that your pup is getting the best possible nutrition. Read on to discover our top picks for the best healthy dog food.

1. IAMS Adult Healthy Weight Control Dry Dog Food with Real Chicken

If you're looking for a healthy dog food option for your furry friend, IAMS Adult Healthy Weight Control Dry Dog Food with Real Chicken could be a great choice.

Pros

Provides 17% less fat than IAMS Minichunks recipe for weight management

Made with real farm-raised chicken for a delicious taste

Contains a blend of fibers and natural prebiotics for healthy digestion

Cons

Some dogs may not like the taste

Can be pricey compared to other dog food options

Not suitable for puppies or senior dogs

We recently switched to this dog food for our pup who was struggling with weight gain. We were impressed with the quality of the ingredients and the fact that it's made with real chicken. Our dog seems to enjoy the taste and we've noticed a positive change in his weight since switching to this food.

The blend of fibers and natural prebiotics in this dog food also helps support healthy digestion, which is important for overall health. However, it's worth noting that some dogs may not like the taste of this food, so it may take some trial and error to find a food that your dog enjoys.

Overall, if you're looking for a high-quality dog food option to help manage your dog's weight, IAMS Adult Healthy Weight Control Dry Dog Food with Real Chicken could be a great choice.

2. Victor Super Premium Dog Food Bundle of Purpose Senior Healthy Weight Dry Dog Food (5lbs) and Crunchy Dog Treats with Chicken Meal (14 oz)

If you are looking for a high-quality dog food that will help your furry friend maintain a healthy weight, Victor Super Premium Dog Food Bundle of Purpose Senior Healthy Weight Dry Dog Food (5lbs) and Crunchy Dog Treats with Chicken Meal (14 oz) is a great option.

Pros

This dog food is specifically designed for less active older dogs and adult dogs that would benefit from weight loss for optimal health.

The gluten-free formula is packed with premium-quality beef, fish, and chicken meals, and L-Carnitine to support lean muscle development.

This dog food provides glucosamine and chondroitin to help support long-term hip and joint health.

Cons

Some dogs may not like the taste of this dog food.

The kibble size may be too large for smaller dogs.

This dog food may be more expensive than other options on the market.

We have been using Victor Super Premium Dog Food Bundle of Purpose Senior Healthy Weight Dry Dog Food (5lbs) and Crunchy Dog Treats with Chicken Meal (14 oz) for a few weeks now and have noticed a significant improvement in our dog's overall health. The gluten-free formula is packed with premium-quality protein and has helped our dog maintain a healthy weight.

The addition of glucosamine and chondroitin has also helped support our dog's hip and joint health, which is especially important as he ages. We also appreciate that the dog treats are made with high-quality protein and are ideal for training and treating our dog.

Overall, we highly recommend Victor Super Premium Dog Food Bundle of Purpose Senior Healthy Weight Dry Dog Food (5lbs) and Crunchy Dog Treats with Chicken Meal (14 oz) to any dog owner looking for a high-quality dog food that will help their furry friend maintain a healthy weight and support their overall health.

3. Hill's Science Diet Perfect Weight Adult Dog Food

If you want your grown dog to maintain a healthy weight, Hill's Science Diet Perfect Weight Adult Dog Food is an excellent choice.

Pros

Clinically proven for weight management

Made with natural ingredients

Supports muscle maintenance

Cons

Expensive compared to other dog foods

Some dogs may not like the taste

May not be suitable for dogs with specific dietary needs

We have been using Hill's Science Diet Perfect Weight Adult Dog Food for our dog's weight management needs, and we have been very happy with the results. The food is clinically proven to help dogs lose weight, and we have seen a noticeable difference in our dog's weight within just a few weeks of starting the diet.

One of the things we love about this dog food is that it is made with natural ingredients. We feel good about feeding our dog a high-quality food that is good for him. Additionally, this dog food supports muscle maintenance, which is important for our active dog.

The only downside to this dog food is that it is more expensive than some other dog foods on the market. However, we feel that the benefits of using this food outweigh the cost. Some dogs may also not like the taste of the food, but our dog has always enjoyed it.

Overall, we highly recommend Hill's Science Diet Perfect Weight Adult Dog Food for anyone looking for a high-quality dog food that can help their grown dog maintain a healthy weight.

4. AvoDerm L.I.D. Sensitive Support Dry Dog Food

We highly recommend AvoDerm L.I.D. Sensitive Support Dry Dog Food for pet owners looking for a healthy and nutritious diet for their furry friend.

Pros

Developed for dogs with sensitive stomachs

Limited ingredient diet to minimize food sensitivities

Grain-free for healthy digestion and balanced nutrition

Cons

Pricey compared to other dog foods

Not suitable for dogs with poultry allergies

May not be easily available at all pet stores

This lamb and sweet potato recipe dry dog food is specifically developed for rotational feeding, allowing you to switch among recipes without stomach upset. Lamb is the first ingredient and one single animal protein to help minimize food sensitivities. The limited ingredient diet recipe is developed for dogs with sensitive stomachs.

Trout and pea recipe dry dog food is also available, and it is specifically developed for rotational feeding, allowing you to switch among recipes without stomach upset. Trout is the first ingredient and fish is the only protein source to help minimize food sensitivities.

This dog food is grain-free for healthy digestion and balanced nutrition. It is also formulated with vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants to support your dog's overall health and wellbeing.

In conclusion, AvoDerm L.I.D. Sensitive Support Dry Dog Food is a great option for pet owners looking for a healthy and nutritious diet for their furry friend. While it may be pricey and not suitable for dogs with poultry allergies, its limited ingredient diet and grain-free formula make it a great choice for dogs with sensitive stomachs.

5. AvoDerm Healthy Dog Food

If you're looking for a healthy and all-natural dog food for your furry friend, AvoDerm Healthy Dog Food is a great option.

Pros

Made with premium proteins as the first ingredient in all recipes

All-natural ingredients with no by-product meals, artificial flavors, colors, or preservatives

Specially developed for rotational feeding to switch among recipes without stomach upset

Cons

Only available in small bite size kibble for small breed adults

Limited flavor options for rotational feeding

Relatively new product with limited reviews

We recently tried AvoDerm's Lamb Recipe Dry Dog Food for our small breed adult dog and were impressed with the quality of the ingredients. The small bite size kibble was perfect for our dog's small mouth and the rotational feeding options allowed us to switch up his diet without any stomach upset.

What we loved most about AvoDerm Healthy Dog Food was that it contains premium proteins as the first ingredient in all recipes, providing our dog with healthy balanced nutrition. We also appreciated that it's made with all-natural ingredients, free from by-product meals, artificial flavors, colors, and preservatives. Plus, it's corn-free, wheat-free, and soy-free, making it a great option for dogs with food sensitivities.

While the limited flavor options for rotational feeding may be a downside for some pet owners, we found that the lamb recipe was a hit with our dog. Overall, we recommend AvoDerm Healthy Dog Food for anyone looking for a high-quality, all-natural dog food option.

6. Wellness Complete Health Food + Supplements Bundle

If you're looking for a healthy dog food option, the Wellness Complete Health Food + Supplements Bundle is a great choice.

Pros

Made with high-quality protein and wholesome grains like oatmeal

Supports overall skin and coat health

No meat byproducts, fillers, or artificial preservatives

Cons

May not be suitable for dogs with certain dietary restrictions

Some dogs may not like the taste

Slightly more expensive than other dog food options

We recently tried the Wellness Complete Health Food + Supplements Bundle for our furry friend, and we were impressed with the results. The main ingredient is chicken, which is a high-quality protein source, and the addition of wholesome grains like oatmeal makes it a well-rounded meal option.

One of the standout features of this dog food is its ability to support overall skin and coat health. The formula contains Omega 3 fatty acids to promote healthy skin, and prebiotics and probiotics to support the immune system.

We also appreciate that this dog food doesn't contain any meat byproducts, fillers, or artificial preservatives. It's made in the USA using only the finest globally sourced ingredients, so we feel good about feeding it to our dog.

While there are many pros to this dog food, it may not be suitable for all dogs. If your dog has certain dietary restrictions, you may need to find a different option. Additionally, some dogs may not like the taste of the food, which could be a dealbreaker for picky eaters.

Overall, we would recommend the Wellness Complete Health Food + Supplements Bundle to anyone looking for a healthy dog food option. It may be slightly more expensive than other options, but we believe the benefits are worth the cost.

7. Victor Super Premium Dog Food Bundle

If you're looking for a healthy dog food option for your less active older dog or adult dog that needs to lose weight, Victor Super Premium Dog Food Bundle is a great choice. With gluten-free grains and L-Carnitine, this dry dog food supports lean muscle development and hip and joint health. Plus, it comes with Crunchy Dog Treats made with gluten-free ancient grains and high-quality protein.

Pros

Specifically formulated for less active older dogs and adult dogs that need to lose weight

Gluten-free grains and L-Carnitine support lean muscle development

Provides glucosamine and chondroitin for long-term hip and joint health

Cons

May not be suitable for highly active dogs

May not be suitable for dogs with certain dietary restrictions

May be more expensive than other dog food options

We recently tried Victor Super Premium Dog Food Bundle for our older dog who has been struggling with weight management. We were impressed with the quality of the ingredients and the fact that it's gluten-free. Our dog seemed to enjoy the taste and we noticed an improvement in his overall health and energy levels after switching to this dog food.

The Crunchy Dog Treats with Chicken Meal were also a hit with our dog. They're the perfect size for training and treating and we appreciate that they're made with high-quality protein and gluten-free ancient grains.

Overall, we highly recommend Victor Super Premium Dog Food Bundle for anyone looking for a healthy dog food option for their less active older dog or adult dog that needs to lose weight. It's a bit more expensive than other dog food options, but the quality of the ingredients and the health benefits make it worth the investment.

8. Wellness Crunchy Dog Treats + Dry Food Bundle: Healthy Joints Protein-Packed Treats, 8 oz Bag + CORE Digestive Health with Wholesome Grains for Small Breed Dogs, 4 lb Bag Trial Bundle – Small Breed

If you're looking for a healthy and nutritious dog food option, the Wellness Crunchy Dog Treats + Dry Food Bundle is a great choice.

Pros

These treats are made with natural and high-quality ingredients that are focused on quality proteins, which is great for your dog's overall health.

The crunchy biscuits with real meaty marrow center make for a delicious flavor and texture that your dog will love.

The digestive enzymes, prebiotic fibers, and guaranteed levels of probiotics in the dog kibble support gut health for overall wellbeing.

Cons

Some dogs may not like the flavor of the treats.

The price point may be higher than other dog food options.

The trial bundle may not be enough to last for a long period of time.

As someone who has used this product, I can confidently say that it's a great option for small breed dogs. The treats are a perfect size for everyday treating, training, or snacking, and the dry food is highly digestible, making it a great option for dogs with digestive health issues.

The ingredients in this dog food are thoughtfully chosen for their nutritional benefits, and there are no meat by-products, artificial colors, flavors, or preservatives. The Omega 3 Fatty Acids, superfood pumpkin, papaya, and essential vitamins in the food support overall immunity, vitality, a shiny coat, and healthy skin.

Overall, if you're looking for a healthy and nutritious dog food option for your small breed dog, the Wellness Crunchy Dog Treats + Dry Food Bundle is definitely worth considering.

Buying Guide

When it comes to choosing the best healthy dog food, there are several factors to consider. We want to ensure that we are providing our furry friends with the best possible nutrition to keep them healthy and happy. Here are some features to look for when selecting a product:

Ingredients

The first thing to consider is the ingredients list. Look for products that have high-quality sources of protein, such as chicken, beef, or lamb. Avoid products that list meat by-products or fillers as their primary source of protein. Additionally, look for products that have whole grains, fruits, and vegetables as their main ingredients.

Nutritional Value

It's important to ensure that the product you choose meets your dog's nutritional needs. Look for products that have a balance of protein, fat, and carbohydrates. Check the label for information on the product's nutritional value, including the percentage of protein, fat, and fiber.

Brand Reputation

It's important to choose a product from a reputable brand that has a history of producing high-quality dog food. Do some research on the brand to ensure that they have a good reputation and are known for producing healthy and nutritious dog food.

Dog's Age and Size

Consider your dog's age and size when choosing a product. Puppies and senior dogs have different nutritional needs than adult dogs, and larger dogs may require different nutrient levels than smaller dogs. Look for products that are specifically formulated for your dog's age and size.

Price

While price shouldn't be the only factor you consider, it's important to choose a product that fits within your budget. Look for products that provide good value for their price and offer the nutritional value your dog needs.

By considering these factors, you can choose the best healthy dog food for your furry friend.

Frequently Asked Questions What is the number one healthiest dog food?

There is no one-size-fits-all answer to this question since every dog has unique nutritional needs. However, the healthiest dog food is one that is made with high-quality ingredients, contains a balanced ratio of protein, fat, and carbohydrates, and does not contain any artificial preservatives, colors, or flavors.

What do most vets recommend for dog food?

Most vets recommend dog food that is made with high-quality ingredients and contains a balanced ratio of protein, fat, and carbohydrates. Additionally, they recommend avoiding dog food that contains artificial preservatives, colors, or flavors.

What is the safest food to feed my dog?

The safest food to feed your dog is one that is made with high-quality ingredients, is free from artificial preservatives, colors, or flavors, and is formulated to meet your dog's specific nutritional needs.

What dog food do dogs like best?

Every dog is different, and what one dog likes may not be the same as what another dog likes. However, many dogs enjoy dog food that is made with high-quality ingredients and contains a variety of different flavors and textures.

Which dog food brands are vet recommended?

There are many dog food brands that are vet recommended, including Hill's Science Diet, Royal Canin, and Purina Pro Plan. These brands are known for using high-quality ingredients and formulating their dog food to meet a dog's specific nutritional needs.

Is Blue Buffalo good dog food?

Blue Buffalo is a popular dog food brand that is known for using high-quality ingredients and formulating their dog food to meet a dog's specific nutritional needs. While some dogs may do well on Blue Buffalo, it is important to note that every dog is different, and what works for one dog may not work for another.

The Best Dog Food Brands, Tested And Reviewed By Editors

Being a pet parent comes with its fair share of responsibilities, including feeding them a nutritious diet. From managing weight to building robust immune systems, there are numerous health benefits to giving your dog the right food, according to experts (balanced, of course, around their favorite dog treats).

"Commercially processed canned or kibble foods are formulated to meet dogs' nutritional needs for proteins, fats, carbohydrates, vitamins and minerals — they're convenient, consistent and readily available, and they undergo a process of quality control and inspection that is meant to catch any contaminants or pathogens before they affect pets or people," says Dr. Lori Teller, a board-certified veterinarian and immediate past president of the American Veterinary Medical Association.

I have written about all things dogs — and specifically dog food — for over three years. To help you search, I consulted veterinarians and animal nutrition experts on what to consider when shopping for the best dog food. Below, I compiled expert-recommended dog food brands to consider and options NBC Select staffers feed their own pets.

SKIP AHEAD How I picked the best dog foodBest dog foodHow to determine the best food for your dogWhy trust NBC Select?

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When choosing the right food for your dog, my experts recommend considering the following factors:

AAFCO nutrition standards: Ensure the dog food meets AAFCO nutrition standards, which you can determine by looking at the nutritional adequacy statement on the label that will note the food is "complete and balanced." All of the dog foods I list — including dry kibble and canned wet food — meet or exceed the Association of American Feed Control Officials (AAFCO) nutritional standards.

Ingredients and palatability: All of the following dog foods come from brands with a team of veterinary nutritionists on staff to regulate the use of high-quality ingredients (more on specific ingredients and formulas below). The ingredient list on the packaging displays all ingredients from highest to least amount by weight, which means the first three listed are the most crucial to consider, according to AAFCO. 

Nutritional value and proportions: Make sure brands provide a feeding guide on its packaging to help you determine the appropriate portions for your dog's weight and size.

Your dog's size, weight and life stage: Some brands label dog food according to breed size, like small, medium and large, to mark the size of kibble that is easier for them to ingest. Brands like Royal Canin also have breed-specific formulas, which can help address common needs and concerns for certain dog breeds. If you have a puppy, you should feed them food that's specifically labelled for puppies until they reach their adult body weight. All of the following brands offer high-calorie options for puppies and easily digestible kibble sizes for dogs of various sizes.

The list below includes options that align with experts' guidance and ones that NBC Select staffers feed their own dogs.

Best overall dog food: Royal Canin Small Breed Adult Dry Dog Food

$59.99

Amazon

$59.99

$66.99

Petco

$59.99

PetSmart

What we like

Crunchy texture

Multiple kibble sizes

Resealable bag

Something to note

Nothing to note at this time

Royal Canin makes some of the most diverse dog food options available on the market — the brand has both dry and wet dog food specific to dog sizes, breeds and dietary restrictions, including food sensitivities and gastrointestinal issues. I feed my 6-year-old Havanese and bichon frise mix, Bella, Royal Canin's small-breed dry dog food after my veterinarian recommended it. The small-breed kibble is made for small dogs 10 months to 8 years old that weigh between nine and 22 pounds. 

Former NBC Select editorial operations manager Shari Uyehara regularly uses the same formula for her dog Loki, a 2-year-old cavalier King Charles spaniel, after it was recommended by Loki's breeder. I've noticed that Bella prefers this brand over others, which she would often leave half-eaten. Royal Canin also has dry food formula for extra-small, medium, large breeds and giant breeds, as well as a puppy formula.

Food type: DryTexture: Crunchy kibbleCalorie content: 359 kcal per cup (small breed formula)Main ingredients: Corn, chicken by-product meal, brewers rice, brown rice

Royal Canin's dog food is commonly recommended by veterinarians. Loki, a 2-year-old cavalier King Charles spaniel, eats his Royal Canin kibble from a slow feeder to prevent him from eating too fast.Courtesy Shari Uyehara Best dog food for puppies: Hill's Science Diet Puppy Small Bites Dry Dog Food

$18.04

$20.99

Amazon

$18.99

$20.99

Chewy

$18.99

$20.99

Petco

What we like

Small-sized kibble

Supports overall puppy health

Easy to digest

Something to note

Nothing to note at this time

Hill's Science Diet's puppy food is made for dogs up to 1 year old and comes in small, easy-to-digest kibble, according to the brand. The formula has natural omega-3 fatty acids from fish oil that work to support healthy brain and eye development, as well as a vitamin E and vitamin C blend that helps support a healthy immune system in puppies, according to Hill's. The food comes in a 4.5- or 12.5-pound bag, and the brand also has a canned puppy formula, which my experts say can be great to mix into your dog's dry food.

Food type: DryTexture: Crunchy kibbleCalorie content: 393 kcal per cupMain ingredients: Chicken, brown rice, whole grain wheat

Best dry dog food for sensitive stomachs: Purina Pro Plan Adult Sensitive Skin & Stomach Dry Dog Food

$71.98

$89.98

Amazon

$71.98

$74.99

Chewy

$71.98

$74.99

Petco

What we like

Easy to digest

Novel proteins

No wheat, soy or corn

Something to note

May take time to adjust

Kibble is all same size

Some dogs are sensitive to certain food ingredients, which can cause excessive itching, loose stools, occasional vomiting and other symptoms. Investing in a dog food formulated for dogs with sensitive stomachs and skin can help minimize these issues. This option from Purina does not have corn, wheat or soy, so it's easier to digest for dogs with an intolerance to these ingredients. However, these types of ingredients should only be avoided if your dog has an intolerance because they are full of healthy vitamins, minerals and carbohydrates, experts say. To help your dog maintain a complete and balanced diet, the formula has high-protein salmon (novel proteins like salmon that aren't common in a dog's diet help with sensitive stomach issues, according to experts), probiotics and prebiotic fiber for digestive and immune health and omega-6 fatty acids to help support a healthy skin and coat, according to the brand.

Food type: DryTexture: Crunchy kibbleCalorie content: 407 kcal per cupMain ingredients: Salmon, barley, rice, oatmeal, canola meal, fish meal 

Best subscription dog food: The Farmer's Dog Subscription Dog Food

What we like

Delivers to your home

Custom formula

Easy to store

Something to note

May take time to adjust

More expensive

The Farmer's Dog is a subscription plan that delivers fresh, ready-to-eat dog food to your door. Each prepared meal delivery comes with the exact portions your dog needs based on their age, weight, breed, activity level and build. Before you place an order, you'll fill out a questionnaire and the brand calculates the plan that fits your dog's caloric and nutritional needs. 

Bandit, a 2-year-old maltipoo, started eating The Farmer's Dog when he was 6 months old and he's still just as excited for mealtime two years later, according to Daruvuri.Courtesy of Sadhana Daruvuri

You can store the food pouches in your fridge or freezer, and each package lasts up to four days in the fridge after being thawed, according to the brand. NBC Select social editor Sadhana Daruvuri feeds The Farmer's Dog to her 2-year-old Maltipoo, Bandit: "I knew friends who tried it, and their dogs were all big fans, so I did a trial with Bandit and it was obvious he liked it way more than his kibble," she says. Bandit was always a picky eater regarding his kibble, Daruvuri says, until she noticed a huge difference in how excited he was to eat after switching to The Farmer's Dog. Subscription prices start at $2 per day and delivery options range from one week to two months of food (plan pricing varies based on your dog's weight, breed, activity level and more).

Food type: FreshTexture: Soft, easy to chewCalorie content: n/a (based on questionnaire)Main ingredients: Human-grade (based on questionnaire)

Best food for active dogs: Purina Pro Plan Sport Performance Salmon & Cod Dry Dog Food

$84.68

Amazon

$84.68

$87.69

Chewy

$84.69

$84.99

PetSmart

What we like

Maintains healthy weight

Good for picky eaters

NBC Select commerce analytics manager Amanda Smith feeds this Purina Pro Plan formula to her 3-year-old rat terrier Mac, a picky eater who found this option more palatable than others. Specifically made for active adult dogs, this dry food has glucosamine and omega-3 fatty acids to help maintain joint health and mobility, according to the brand. It also has a ratio of 30% protein and 20% fat to keep their energy up, according to Purina. This food is available in several flavor combinations to fit your dog's preferences, including turkey, duck and quail, salmon and cod, and beef and bison formulas.

Food type: DryTexture: Crunchy kibbleCalorie content: 473 kcal per cupMain ingredients: Salmon, rice, poultry by-product meal, corn gluten meal, whole grain corn, beef fat

Mac, a 3-year-old rat terrier, eats his Purina Pro Plan dry dog food from a snuffle mat, a puzzle-like toy that keeps him engaged as he eats and encourages him to slow down.Courtesy of Amanda Smith Best dog food for large breeds: Purina Pro Plan Large Breed Adult Dry Dog Food

$71.98

$89.98

Amazon

$71.98

$74.99

Petco

$71.98

$74.99

Chewy

What we like

Maintains healthy weight

Large kibble size

Good value for size

Purina employs several veterinary nutritionists to help determine healthy formulations and ingredients. The brand's highly rated Pro Plan dog food is geared toward dogs of different sizes and in all stages of life, including large-breed adults and puppies, according to the brand. The Purina Pro Plan formula has natural prebiotic fiber for digestive health and omega-6 fatty acids and vitamin A for skin and coat health, according to the brand. NBC Select associate updates editor Zoe Malin says her large 100-pound yellow lab Chance eats the weight-management dry kibble from the brand, which has a more optimized protein-to-fat ratio because he's 10 years old and less active.

Food type: DryTexture: Crunchy kibbleCalorie content: 407 kcal per cupMain ingredients: Chicken, rice, corn gluten meal, whole grain corn

Chance, a 100-pound yellow lab, switched to Purina Pro Plan's weight management dog food when he was 8 years old as he got less active.Courtesy of Zoe Malin Best canned wet dog food: Royal Canin Adult Gastrointestinal Canned Dog Food

$119.76

Chewy

$117.36

Petco

What we like

Great for sensitive stomachs

Low-fat

Maintains gut health

Something to note

Needs vet approval

More expensive

Non-resealable can

Suppose you prefer to incorporate canned food into your dog's meals. In that case, Royal Canin has various wet food options tested by veterinary nutritionists that can help you provide them with a little more diversity at dinnertime. Though it's pricier, this low-fat option can be good for adult dogs with gastrointestinal issues or sensitive stomachs, according to the brand. (Though remember you'll need your vet's approval to order it.) The formula has prebiotics to help maintain good bacteria in the gut, a blend of dietary fibers that can promote healthy digestion and omega-3 fatty acids from fish oil to help soothe the GI tract, according to Royal Canin.

The brand also has other options to tackle various concerns, including weight loss, digestive care and joint care (all of which need veterinarian approval). If you don't want your vet's approval first, you can opt for the brand's regular adult canned dog food.

Food type: WetTexture: Soft, easy to chewCalorie content: 345 kcal per canMain ingredients: Pork by-products, pork liver, brewers rice flour, corn grits, corn meal

Best frozen dog food: Just Food For Dogs Fish & Sweet Potato

$76.99

Amazon

$76.99

Chewy

What we like

Locally sourced produce

Last a long time

Easy to store

Something to note

Individually packaged

May need to ease into new diet

Just Food For Dogs has pouches of high-protein food with a low-calorie count, so it's great for dogs who may be overweight or don't get regular exercise, according to the brand. It has a variety of meal options made up of locally sourced produce and have only one source of protein for a limited ingredients diet, including venison, lamb and turkey. 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 dog. All pouches 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

This sweet potato and fish option provides a balanced diet for dogs with sensitive stomachs or those in need of a novel protein due to allergies, according to the brand. If you're unsure which dog food to buy, the brand also has a variety pack with recipes like venison and squash, lamb and brown rice, and beef and potato.

Food type: FreshTexture: Soft, easy to chewCalorie content: 26 kcal per ounceMain ingredients: Cod, sweet potatoes, potatoes, green beans, broccoli

Best poultry-free dog food: Merrick Grain Free Real Salmon & Sweet Potato Dry Dog Food

$77.98

Amazon

$77.98

Chewy

$77.98

Petco

What we like

Novel proteins

Good for allergies

Small kibble size

This Merrick salmon and sweet potato formula is great for dogs with sensitive stomachs or those who experience allergies to common proteins. Studies show that proteins like beef and chicken are among the most reported causes of allergies in dogs, so it's important to look out for common signs of allergies — like excessive itching and vomiting — to figure out what works best for them, says Dr. Joe Wakshlag, professor of clinical nutrition and sports medicine and rehabilitation at Cornell College of Veterinary Medicine. However, most dogs don't usually experience these types of allergies, so you don't need to avoid chicken and turkey unless you think your dog may have an allergy or intolerance, says Wakshlag.

Food type: DryTexture: Crunchy kibbleCalorie content: 392 kcal per cupMain ingredients: Deboned salmon, salmon meal, whitefish meal, sweet potatoes, potatoes, peas

Best dog food for digestive and joint health: Kirkland Signature Adult Formula Chicken, Rice and Vegetable Dog Food

What we like

Good source of protein

Promotes joint health

Budget-friendly

NBC Select associate reporter Bianca Alvarez feeds her 8-year-old pitbull Baylor this Kirkland Signature dry dog food with chicken, whole grain brown rice and vegetables. "Baylor has a really sensitive stomach and this dry food is one of the only ones we found that she can tolerate," says Alvarez. "We've been feeding her this one for years and when we've tried to switch it up in the past, she either doesn't like it or her stomach gets really upset." The food has probiotics to maintain digestive health, and glucosamine and chondroitin to help support healthy joints, according to the brand. The brand also makes a small breed formula.

Food type: DryTexture: Crunchy kibbleCalorie content: 393 kcals per cupMain ingredients: Chicken, chicken meal, whole grain brown rice, cracked pearled barley, chicken fat

Best wet food for sensitive stomachs: Hill's Science Diet Adult Sensitive Stomach & Skin Canned Dog Food

$46.68

$49.68

Amazon

$46.68

$49.68

Chewy

$46.68

$49.68

Petco

What we like

Good for several sensitivities

High moisture content

Can mix with dry food

I typically mix my dog Bella's dry kibble with canned food to add moisture and texture to her nightly meal. However, her veterinarian recommended this wet food since she has a very sensitive stomach. So far, it's one of the only canned foods that hasn't caused any discomfort or side effects. The turkey and rice stew is Bella's favorite, but the brand also has salmon and chicken recipes.

Food type: WetTexture: Soft, easy to chewCalorie content: 253 kcal/canMain ingredients: Chicken broth, turkey, carrots, pork liver, rice, chicken

Bella, a 6-year-old Havanese and bichon frise mix, eats her Royal Canin adult kibble combined with Hill's Science Diet canned food every night.Courtesy of Mili Godio Best prepared wet dog food: Purina Beneful Prepared Meals Beef & Chicken Medley

$15.13

$21.44

Chewy

$20.47

$27.29

PetCareRx

What we like

Dogs love the flavor

Resealable container

Can serve on its own

Something to note

Nothing to note at this time

As a treat, Smith mixes a scoop of this prepared meal with Mac's dry food about once a week. The stew comes with veggies, chunks of real beef, real chicken and rice. It's also a fully balanced meal, so you can serve it on its own as long as you follow your dog's recommended portion size (you can calculate portions on the brand's website), or sprinkle it on top of your dog's favorite kibble.

Food type: WetTexture: Soft, easy to chewCalorie content: 265 kcal per tubMain ingredients: Beef and chicken broth, beef, wheat gluten, liver, white rice

The two biggest factors that determine whether your dog's food is good for their health is whether it's nutritionally complete and balanced and whether you're giving your dog the right portions based on their size and weight. When selecting your pet's food, it is important to consider the information on the label and beyond the label.

On the label, the nutrition adequacy — or the AAFCO statement — indicates the species and life stage the food is formulated for and how it's substantiated, either by formulation or feeding tests. But what isn't on the label can be equally as important. The Global Nutrition Guidelines set by the World Small Animal Veterinary Association (WSAVA) recommend investigating the brand to determine the people involved in the product's formulation and manufacturing and whether the company routinely analyzes its finished products for nutrient content, pathogens and other items that don't belong in dog food.

"Do they have veterinarians on staff or, more specifically, do they have veterinary nutritionists who are board-certified in that field? Brands that provide the best diets also invest in research," says Dr. Brian Roberts, a board-certified veterinarian and regional medical director in the Mid-Atlantic region with VCA Animal Hospitals.

Below, I highlight some key considerations experts suggest when shopping for high-quality dog food.

Meets AAFCO nutrition standards

Experts say any good dog food will meet the AAFCO nutrition standards. "You can determine if a pet food meets your pet's nutritional needs by looking at the nutritional adequacy statement on the label — if this statement includes the phrase 'complete and balanced,' then the product is intended to be fed as a pet's sole diet and should be nutritionally balanced," says Roberts.

"We have the AAFCO to make sure that everything you feed [your dog] is nutritionally complete," says Wakshlag. You should be able to find the statement, which the FDA considers one of the most important aspects of a dog or cat food label, on the back label (in small font).

While AAFCO has feed control officials that develop standards, definitions and policies for the sale and distribution of pet food, among other animal feeds, the voluntary membership association 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

Finding the best food for your dog is much less about the specific ingredients than you may think. Dog owners should focus on the nutrients their companion is getting from those ingredients instead, says Dr. Richard Hill, a board-certified veterinary nutritionist and associate professor at the University of Florida Department of Small Animal Clinical Sciences.

However, the ingredient list can give you an idea of what nutrients your dog can get from their meal. The AAFCO states that an ingredient list is required to display all ingredients from highest amount to least amount by weight, which means the first three listed are the most critical — this will help you determine if the formula is vegetable-based with things like corn and brown rice or meat-based with chicken, fish or lamb, experts say.

AAFCO has developed several safety standards for ingredients used in pet food, and it goes in depth about common pet food labels.

Organic food needs to follow production and handling requirements set by the USDA's National Organic Program, which regulates all organic crops, livestock and agricultural products, to be recognized by the association.

Human-grade has no real definition in any animal feed regulations because very few pet food products can be officially considered edible by humans, AAFCO says.

Natural food has to be derived solely from plant, animal or mined sources and cannot be produced by a chemically synthetic process (although ingredients can have trace amounts of chemically synthetic compounds and still be considered natural).

"Some say natural ingredients like whole chicken are better than something processed like chicken meal; however, both are from the same source — chicken meal is just dehydrated chicken," says Roberts.

Nutritional value and proportions

To ensure you're giving your dog the appropriate nutrients and proportions, check the food's energy density — shown as kcal (calories) per cup, can or ounce, similar to the nutritional facts on human foods — and its feeding guidelines.

"Generally speaking, commercially prepared brands of dog food have all the essential nutrients that a dog needs for healthy life function," says Dr. Kristin Michael, a board-certified veterinarian and medical director at VCA Liberty Animal Hospital. "Each specific brand and type of dog food should have clearly labeled feeding amounts for your dog's ideal weight."

Once you determine feeding guidelines, you should keep an eye on your pet's weight with the Body Condition Score, which is a visual scale that evaluates the amount of fat on key parts of the dog's body (a 4 or 5 score is ideal). Vets use this scale to help gauge a pet's body condition at each medical appointment and monitor it over the lifespan of a pet, says Michael. "A dog outside of [a healthy] range in either direction could be struggling with a medical issue that needs to be addressed," she says.

Unfortunately, the top nutritional disease in dogs is obesity and, in some breeds, this can take as much as two years off their lifespan, according to Hill. A lot of obesity problems in dogs come down to the owner's inability to understand their dog's calorie intake: "We often pay attention to what's on the side of the bag, and those recommendations are for the normal, active dog — a lot of dogs aren't normal and active," says Wakshlag. (More on dogs and obesity below.)

Your dog's size, weight and life stage

Generally, your dog's food should match their life stage. For example, you should feed your puppy food that's specifically labeled for puppies until they reach their adult body weight — small breeds can switch to adult dog food at seven to nine months, while bigger breeds typically switch at 12 to 14 months, according to the American Kennel Club. "Giant breed dogs can remain on a puppy diet until 1.5 years since they continue to grow for longer than standard sized dogs," says Michael.

According to Tufts University Cummings School of Veterinary Medicine, if your senior dog is healthy and eating a nutritionally balanced diet in the later stages of its life, there is no need to change its food.

You'll often see certain dog foods labeled for small, medium and large breeds — these labels mostly deal with the size of the kibble and whether it's easy for them to ingest. Some brands like Royal Canin have breed-specific formulas, which can help certain breeds' needs.

"Manufacturers that follow nutritional science have developed diets with ingredient content for specific classes of breeds who are predisposed to certain problems," says Roberts. "Many large and giant breeds can develop joint problems in life — some of which are linked to certain ingredients — and diets labeled 'giant breed' take this into consideration."

Be mindful of whether the formulas are actually beneficial or just marketing tactics, and you should double-check the ingredients list and nutritional content to make sure the food is actually serving its purpose for your breed, says Wakshlag.

Wet food versus dry food: What's the difference?

The main difference between dry food and canned dog food is its water content. "Kibble is 10% water, [while] canned food is upwards of 70% water," says Roberts. If both products have the same ingredients and only the water content differs, it's okay to mix the wet food with your dog's dry dog food, especially if they often get picky about their food or need an extra boost of hydration, he says. You can also add fresh dog-safe vegetables and fruits to their meals or as dog treats to add nutritional value without a