Pet Food Sherpa

10 Best Freeze-Dried Dog Foods

Kate Barrington — Mon, 14 Mar 2022 12:36:06 +0000

1. Best Freeze-Dried Dog Food Formulas in 2024
2. Price Vs Overall Score Comparison
3. Why Should You Trust Us
4. Freeze-Dried Dog Foods - What you Need to Know

Made with the freshest raw ingredients, freeze-dried food offers a protein- and nutrient-rich alternative to conventional wet and dry dog food. This food is gently freeze-dried to remove moisture, rendering the product shelf-stable for convenience.

Because freeze-dried food is shelf-stable, it generally doesn’t require the use of artificial preservatives. A quality recipe contains plenty of animal-based proteins and healthy fat with limited carbohydrate content. It tends to be a pricier option, but the quality makes it worthy of your consideration.

Best Freeze-Dried Dog Food Formulas in 2024

Now that you’ve been introduced to the basics about freeze-dried dog food, take a look at some of the options we recommend.

Ziwi Peak Chicken Grain-Free Air-Dried Dog Food

85%

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Rating

Price 47%

Size Variety 100%

Quality of Ingredients 90%

Customer Experience 87%

Nutrient Value 68%

Recall History 100%

Manufacturing Method 90%

Product info

Age Range:Adult Cost per day:$0.59

Company info

Company HQMt. Maunganui, New Zealand Parent companyZiwi Ltd

Overview

While it technically isn’t a freeze-dried formula, this air-dried recipe from Ziwi Peak offers species-appropriate nutrition and shelf-stable convenience. This recipe contains 96% meat, organs, bone, and New Zealand mussels in a high-protein, low-carbohydrate formula. It is designed to be fed as-is and may not rehydrate as well as freeze-dried food.

Ingredients

Chicken, Chicken Liver, Chicken Heart, New Zealand Green Mussel, Chicken Bone, Lecithin, Inulin from Chicory, Dried Kelp, Minerals (Dipotassium Phosphate, Magnesium Sulfate, Zinc Amino Acid Complex, Copper Amino Acid Complex, Iron Amino Acid Complex, Manganese Amino Acid Complex, Selenium Yeast), Salt, Parsley, Preservative (Citric Acid, Mixed Tocopherols), Vitamins (Vitamin E Supplement, Thiamine Mononitrate, Vitamin D3 Supplement, Folic Acid).

Guaranteed Analysis

Protein: 38%

Fat: 30%

Fiber: 2%

Moisture: 14%

Ash: 12%

Carb: 4%

Dry Matter Analysis

Protein: 44.19%

Fat: 34.88%

Fiber: 2.33%

Ash: 13.95%

Carb: 4.65%

Low carbohydrate content
To our knowledge, Ziwi has never had a product recall
Gently air-dried to preserve nutrition
Contains dried kelp as a natural source of essential nutrients
Green-lipped mussel is added as a source of glucosamine and chondroitin
Doesn’t contain fillers, by-products, or artificial additives
Rich in species-appropriate animal protein

Low in moisture
Contains a small amount of plant-based proteins

Vital Essentials Beef Mini Nibs Grain-Free Freeze-Dried Dog Food

71%

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Rating

Price 67%

Quality of Ingredients 100%

Customer Experience 91%

Nutrient Value 90%

Recall History 25%

Manufacturing Method 0%

Product info

Age Range:Adult Cost per day:$0.92

Company info

Company HQGreen Bay, Wisconsin Parent companyCarnivore Meat Company

Overview

Formed into bite-sized nibs, this freeze-dried dog food also works well as a meal topper. Fresh beef is the first ingredient, followed by beef heart, liver, lung, fat, stomach, and kidney, all derived from beef. Herring oil provides an animal-based source of omega-3s and finishes up the short list of main ingredients. This is a protein-packed, single-source protein formula.

Ingredients

Beef, Beef Lung, Beef Liver, Beef Stomach, Beef Heart, Beef Fat, Beef Kidney, Beef Blood, Herring Oil, Mixed Tocopherols, D-Alpha Tocopherol.

Guaranteed Analysis

Protein: 51%

Fat: 23%

Fiber: 2.2%

Moisture: 7%

Ash: 0%

Carb: 16.8%

Dry Matter Analysis

Protein: 54.84%

Fat: 24.73%

Fiber: 2.37%

Ash: 8%

Carb: 18.06%

Low carbohydrate content
Freeze-dried food retains the nutritional value of raw meat
Doesn’t contain fillers, by-products, or artificial additives
Rich in species-appropriate animal protein
Most customers have good experiences with this food

Low in moisture
Contains a small amount of plant-based proteins
Freeze dried dog food requires rehydration, which is time-consuming
The brand has had multiple recalls over recent years
Some dogs may be allergic to fish

ORIJEN Original Grain-Free Freeze-Dried Dog Food & Topper

70%

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Rating

Price 51%

Size Variety 100%

Quality of Ingredients 88%

Customer Experience 58%

Nutrient Value 63%

Recall History 100%

Manufacturing Method 0%

Product info

Age Range:Adult Cost per day:$1.15

Company info

Company HQAlberta, Canada Parent companyChampion Petfoods

Overview

Formulated for use as a complete diet or meal topper, this freeze-dried formula from Orijen is crafted with 100% free-run chicken and turkey, cage-free eggs, and wild-caught herring and flounder. It’s full of flavor and high-quality animal protein but very low in carbohydrates.

Ingredients

Chicken Ground With Bone, Chicken Liver, Turkey, Whole Herring, Eggs, Pea Fiber, Turkey Liver, Turkey Heart, Flounder, Chicken Heart, Whole Pumpkin, Collard Greens, Carrots, Whole Apples, Salt, Dried Kelp, Zinc Proteinate, Potassium Chloride, Manganese Proteinate, Copper Proteinate, Mixed Tocopherols (Preservative), Vitamin E Supplement.

Guaranteed Analysis

Protein: 40%

Fat: 34%

Fiber: 5%

Moisture: 4%

Ash: 9%

Carb: 8%

Dry Matter Analysis

Protein: 41.67%

Fat: 35.42%

Fiber: 5.21%

Ash: 9.38%

Carb: 8.33%

Low carbohydrate content
To our knowledge, ORIJEN has never had a product recall
Freeze-dried food retains the nutritional value of raw meat
Supplemented with chelated minerals for optimal nutrient absorption
Contains dried kelp as a natural source of essential nutrients
Doesn’t contain fillers, by-products, or artificial additives
Rich in species-appropriate animal protein

Low protein content
Low in moisture
Contains a small amount of plant-based proteins
Freeze dried dog food requires rehydration, which is time-consuming
Some dogs may be allergic to fish

Nulo Freestyle Turkey Recipe With Cranberries Grain-Free Freeze-Dried Raw Dog Food

68%

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Rating

Price 33%

Size Variety 83%

Quality of Ingredients 78%

Customer Experience 75%

Nutrient Value 73%

Recall History 100%

Manufacturing Method 0%

Product info

Age Range:Adult Cost per day:$1.41

Company info

Company HQAustin, Texas Parent companyNulo Pet Food

Overview

This nutrient-dense freeze-dried raw formula from Nulo is inspired by whole prey nutrition. Fresh turkey is the primary ingredient, supplemented with additional protein and essential nutrients from turkey necks (also a source of ground bone), turkey heart, and turkey liver. This is a single-source protein formula and it is supplemented with probiotics to support digestive health.

Ingredients

Turkey, Turkey Necks, Turkey Heart, Turkey Liver, Cranberries, Apples, Sweet Potato, Broccoli, Carrots, Kale, Spinach, Parsley, Apple Cider Vinegar, Ground Flaxseed, Dried Kelp, Inulin, Salt, Dried Bacillus coagulans Fermentation Product, Potassium Chloride, Salmon Oil, Zinc Proteinate, Iron Proteinate, Mixed Tocopherols (natural preservative), Vitamin E Supplement, Copper Proteinate, Manganese Proteinate, Vitamin D3 Supplement.

Guaranteed Analysis

Protein: 44%

Fat: 29%

Fiber: 4%

Moisture: 5%

Ash: 0%

Carb: 18%

Dry Matter Analysis

Protein: 46.32%

Fat: 30.53%

Fiber: 4.21%

Ash: 8%

Carb: 18.95%

Low carbohydrate content
To our knowledge, Nulo has never had a product recall
Freeze-dried food retains the nutritional value of raw meat
Supplemented with chelated minerals for optimal nutrient absorption
Contains health promoting ground flaxseed for fiber
Contains dried kelp as a natural source of essential nutrients
Doesn’t contain fillers, by-products, or artificial additives
Rich in species-appropriate animal protein
A good source of omega-3 fatty acids

Low in moisture
Contains a small amount of plant-based proteins
Freeze dried dog food requires rehydration, which is time-consuming
Some dogs may be allergic to fish

Instinct Freeze-Dried Raw Meals Real Beef Recipe Grain-Free Dog Food

67%

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Rating

Price 45%

Size Variety 95%

Quality of Ingredients 74%

Customer Experience 81%

Nutrient Value 57%

Recall History 100%

Manufacturing Method 0%

Product info

Age Range:Adult Cost per day:$1.23

Company info

Company HQLincoln, Nebraska Parent companyM.I. Industries

Overview

Compared to Instinct’s Original dry dog food, this freeze-dried formula contains three times more beef and organs. It features fresh beef as the main ingredient with beef liver, kidney, and spleen as well as a limited list of plant-based ingredients. This formula is higher in carbohydrates than we’d like, but it still contains a fairly short ingredient list, and it is a single protein formula.

Ingredients

Beef, Beef Liver, Beef Kidney, Beef Spleen, Carrots, Apples, Sweet Potatoes, Butternut Squash, Ground Miscanthus Grass, Montmorillonite Clay, Ground Flaxseed, Salmon Oil, Vitamins (Vitamin E Supplement, Thiamine Mononitrate, Vitamin D3 Supplement), Salt, Tricalcium Phosphate, Potassium Chloride, Minerals (Zinc Proteinate, Copper Proteinate, Manganese Proteinate, Calcium Iodate), Mixed Tocopherols (for freshness), Blueberries, Spinach, Rosemary Extract.

Guaranteed Analysis

Protein: 36%

Fat: 29%

Fiber: 5%

Moisture: 6%

Ash: 0%

Carb: 24%

Dry Matter Analysis

Protein: 38.3%

Fat: 30.85%

Fiber: 5.32%

Ash: 8%

Carb: 25.53%

To our knowledge, Instinct has never had a product recall
Freeze-dried food retains the nutritional value of raw meat
Supplemented with chelated minerals for optimal nutrient absorption
Contains health promoting ground flaxseed for fiber
Doesn’t contain fillers, by-products, or artificial additives
Rich in species-appropriate animal protein
A good source of omega-3 fatty acids

Low protein content
Low in moisture
Contains a small amount of plant-based proteins
Freeze dried dog food requires rehydration, which is time-consuming
Some dogs may be allergic to fish

Stella & Chewy's Stella's Super Beef Dinner Patties Freeze-Dried Raw Dog Food

66%

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Rating

Price 52%

Size Variety 100%

Quality of Ingredients 80%

Customer Experience 90%

Nutrient Value 73%

Recall History 27%

Manufacturing Method 0%

Product info

Age Range:Adult Cost per day:$1.12

Company info

Company HQMilwaukee, Wisconsin Parent companyStella and Chewy’s LLC

Overview

Shaped into easy-to-portion patties, this freeze-dried formula from Stella & Chewy’s features fresh beef and beef organs as the primary ingredients. An assortment of organic fruits and veggies provide supplemental fiber and natural sources of key nutrients with probiotics for digestive support.

Ingredients

Beef, Beef Liver, Beef Kidney, Beef Heart, Beef Tripe, Beef Bone, Pumpkin Seed, Organic Cranberries, Organic Spinach, Organic Broccoli, Organic Beets, Organic Carrots, Organic Squash, Organic Blueberries, Fenugreek Seed, Potassium Chloride, Dried Kelp, Sodium Phosphate, Tocopherols (Preservative), Choline Chloride, Dried Pediococcus Acidilactici Fermentation Product, Dried Lactobacillus Acidophilus Fermentation Product, Dried Bifidobacterium Longum Fermentation Product, Dried Bacillus Coagulans Fermentation Product, Zinc Proteinate, Iron Proteinate, Taurine, Calcium Carbonate, Vitamin E Supplement, Thiamine Mononitrate, Copper Proteinate, Manganese Proteinate, Sodium Selenite, Niacin Supplement, D-Calcium Pantothenate, Riboflavin Supplement, Vitamin A Supplement, Vitamin D3 Supplement, Vitamin B12 Supplement, Pyridoxine Hydrochloride, Folic Acid.

Guaranteed Analysis

Protein: 44%

Fat: 35%

Fiber: 5%

Moisture: 5%

Ash: 0%

Carb: 11%

Dry Matter Analysis

Protein: 46.32%

Fat: 36.84%

Fiber: 5.26%

Ash: 8%

Carb: 11.58%

Low carbohydrate content
Freeze-dried food retains the nutritional value of raw meat
Supplemented with chelated minerals for optimal nutrient absorption
Contains dried kelp as a natural source of essential nutrients
Doesn’t contain fillers, by-products, or artificial additives
Rich in species-appropriate animal protein

Low in moisture
Contains a small amount of plant-based proteins
Freeze dried dog food requires rehydration, which is time-consuming
The brand has had multiple recalls over recent years

Grandma Lucy's Pureformance Fish Recipe Grain-Free Freeze-Dried Dog Food

65%

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Rating

Price 92%

Size Variety 100%

Quality of Ingredients 67%

Customer Experience 72%

Nutrient Value 46%

Recall History 100%

Manufacturing Method 0%

Product info

Age Range:Adult Cost per day:$0.36

Company info

Company HQRancho Santa Margarita, California Parent companyGrandma Lucy’s

Overview

This freeze-dried fish formula from Grandma Lucy’s contains fresh pollock as the first ingredient and a single source of high-quality animal protein. Chickpeas, flax, and an assortment of fruits and veggies make up the rest of the ingredients list, along with a few synthetic nutrient supplements. Overall, it provides a decent source of animal protein but is higher in carbohydrates than other foods on this list.

Ingredients

Pollock, Chickpeas, Flax, Carrots, Celery, Apples, Bananas, Blueberries, Cranberries, Pumpkin, Papaya, Spinach, Vitamin A Supplement, Vitamin D3 Supplement, Vitamin E Supplement, Niacin Supplement, Iron Proteinate, Calcium Carbonate, Phosphorous, Zinc Proteinate, Riboflavin Supplement, Thiamine Monoitrate, Potassium Chloride, Manganese Proteinate, Copper Proteinate, Magnesium Chloride, Pyridoxine Hydrochloride, Vitamin B12 Supplement.

Guaranteed Analysis

Protein: 31%

Fat: 14%

Fiber: 6.2%

Moisture: 6.5%

Ash: 0%

Carb: 42.3%

Dry Matter Analysis

Protein: 33.16%

Fat: 14.97%

Fiber: 6.63%

Ash: 8%

Carb: 45.24%

To our knowledge, Grandma Lucy's has never had a product recall
Freeze-dried food retains the nutritional value of raw meat
Supplemented with chelated minerals for optimal nutrient absorption
Doesn’t contain fillers, by-products, or artificial additives
Affordable

Low protein content
High in carbohydrates
Low in moisture
Contains plant-based proteins
Doesn’t receive consistently positive customer reviews
Freeze dried dog food requires rehydration, which is time-consuming
Some dogs may be allergic to fish

Sojos Complete Beef Recipe Adult Grain-Free Freeze-Dried Raw Dog Food

64%

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Rating

Price 82%

Size Variety 100%

Quality of Ingredients 69%

Customer Experience 84%

Nutrient Value 36%

Recall History 100%

Manufacturing Method 0%

Product info

Age Range:Adult Cost per day:$0.63

Company info

Company HQMinneapolis, Minnesota Parent companyWellPet, LLC.

Overview

Simple to soak and serve, this freeze-dried formula from Sojos features fresh beef and whole egg to provide plenty of animal-based protein. An assortment of vegetables and herbs provide supplemental sources of essential nutrients as well as digestion-boosting dietary fiber. A single pound of Sojos freeze-dried food rehydrates to up to 5 pounds of fresh food.

Ingredients

Beef, Sweet Potatoes, Carrots, Whole Egg, Cabbage, Flax Seeds, Cranberries, Celery, Beef Liver, Tricalcium Phosphate, Papaya, Pumpkin, Rosemary, Parsley, Ginger Root, Dried Kelp, Zinc Sulfate, Vitamin E Acetate, Ferrous Fumarate, Copper Sulfate, D-Calcium Pantothenate, Riboflavin, Vitamin D3 Supplement, Pyridoxine Hydrochloride, Folic Acid.

Guaranteed Analysis

Protein: 25%

Fat: 14%

Fiber: 5.5%

Moisture: 10%

Ash: 0%

Carb: 45.5%

Dry Matter Analysis

Protein: 27.78%

Fat: 15.56%

Fiber: 6.11%

Ash: 8%

Carb: 50.56%

To our knowledge, Sojos has never had a product recall
Freeze-dried food retains the nutritional value of raw meat
Contains dried kelp as a natural source of essential nutrients
Doesn’t contain fillers, by-products, or artificial additives
Affordable

Low protein content
High in carbohydrates
Low in moisture
Contains plant-based proteins
Freeze dried dog food requires rehydration, which is time-consuming

Primal Beef Formula Nuggets Grain-Free Raw Freeze-Dried Dog Food

56%

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Rating

Price 52%

Size Variety 100%

Quality of Ingredients 65%

Customer Experience 87%

Nutrient Value 50%

Recall History 25%

Manufacturing Method 0%

Product info

Age Range:Adult Cost per day:$1.13

Company info

Company HQFairfield, California Parent companyPrimal Pet Foods Inc.

Overview

This beef formula from Primal is a single-source protein recipe, making it a great option for dogs with food allergies or sensitivities (as long as they can tolerate beef). Beef hearts, beef livers, and ground beef bone make up the majority of the ingredients list with a few organic fruits and veggies thrown in. The carbohydrate content could be lower, but its still a high-protein recipe.

Ingredients

Beef Hearts, Beef Livers, Ground Beef Bones, Organic Carrots, Organic Squash, Organic Kale, Organic Apples, Organic Broccoli, Organic Pumpkin Seeds, Organic Sunflower Seeds, Organic Blueberries, Organic Cranberries, Organic Parsley, Organic Apple Cider Vinegar, Montmorillonite Clay, Fish Oil, Organic Rosemary Extract, Organic Quinoa, Organic Coconut Oil, Organic Ground Alfalfa, Vitamin E Supplement, Zinc Sulfate, Dried Organic Kelp.

Guaranteed Analysis

Protein: 34%

Fat: 36%

Fiber: 8%

Moisture: 3%

Ash: 0%

Carb: 19%

Dry Matter Analysis

Protein: 35.05%

Fat: 37.11%

Fiber: 8.25%

Ash: 8%

Carb: 19.59%

Low carbohydrate content
Freeze-dried food retains the nutritional value of raw meat
Contains kelp as a natural source of essential nutrients
Doesn’t contain fillers, by-products, or artificial additives
A good source of omega-3 fatty acids

Low protein content
Low in moisture
Contains plant-based proteins
Freeze dried dog food requires rehydration, which is time-consuming
The brand has had multiple recalls over recent years
Some dogs may be allergic to fish

Price Vs Overall Score Comparison

Why Should You Trust Us

As dog parents ourselves, we understand how hard it is to choose the right wet dog food with so many recipes available in 2024. So how do you navigate past marketing claims to get real facts?

That’s where we come in. With over 3962 recipe reviews, Pet Food Sherpa is the largest database for dog food recipe reviews overseen by a vet nutrition specialist.

Our team has analyzed over 300 Freeze-Dried dog foods and selected the 10 best recipes, we then used our pet food algorithm to determine the scores for each recipe.

You should keep in mind that no single Freeze-Dried food is right for all dogs. Instead, use our list as a research tool to help you make a better-informed decision on your dog’s diet.

Freeze-Dried Dog Foods - What you Need to Know

1. What is freeze-dried dog food?

Freeze-dried dog food is prepared using a technique that involves freezing fresh food to remove moisture. The food is quickly frozen at very low temperatures and then the ice crystals are vacuumed out, rendering the product low in moisture and shelf stable. Because freeze-dried food is so low in moisture, it is recommended that you rehydrate the product before feeding it to your dog.

One thing to keep in mind about freeze-dried food is that it is technically raw food. This type of food is made with raw ingredients, but the freeze-drying process helps eliminate some of the potential for foodborne pathogens. Freeze-dried food can be stored at room temperature in its original packaging for months, even years, and opened food is good for about 30 days.

2. Is freeze-dried raw food good for dogs?

Freeze-dried food is a very nutritious option for dogs. As is true for any type of food, the quality is determined by the ingredients and nutritional composition. That being said, however, freeze-dried dog food tends to offer higher quality than the average dry food.

Many freeze-dried dog foods are made with higher inclusions of animal protein and, in many cases, a single source of animal protein. This makes many recipes a great choice for dogs with food allergies and sensitivities to certain animal proteins. Due to the freeze-drying process, this type of food doesn’t require as many carbohydrate fillers or thickeners as traditionally extruded dry food.

The main caveat with freeze-dried food is that it is very low in moisture. It’s recommended that you rehydrate the product with water or broth before feeding it to your dog to ensure that he gets the moisture he needs for optimal hydration.

3. How do I rehydrate freeze-dried dog food?

It is very easy to rehydrate freeze-dried food – you just add water. Freeze-dried food can also be rehydrated with broth or other liquids like goat milk. Just make sure whatever you’re using to rehydrate the food doesn’t contain any potentially harmful ingredients like onion or garlic.

Most commercial freeze-dried dog foods will provide instructions for rehydrating the food. Generally speaking, however, you just add your dog’s portion to his bowl then add the liquid. In most cases, an equal proportion of food to water works well.

It typically takes about 15 to 20 minutes for freeze-dried cat food to rehydrate, though the timing may vary by recipe. Large freeze-dried patties may take longer to rehydrate than smaller nibs or nuggets. Again, you should refer to the feeding instructions on the package. Once the dog food has been rehydrated it should be treated like wet dog food and not left out for more than 4 hours.

4. Is freeze-dried raw dog food safe?

A raw diet can be incredibly nutritious for your dog, but it isn’t without risks. There is always some degree of risk for bacterial contamination with raw foods but following safe food handling procedures is very easy. Always wash your hands after handling the food along with any utensils you use to serve it.

The main concern with freeze-dried raw dog food is bacterial contamination, the most common culprits being E. coli, listeria, and salmonella. Fortunately, the freeze-drying process helps decrease the number of pathogens in the raw ingredients, but some may still survive freeze-drying. Unprocessed and homemade raw foods may have lower rates of contamination than commercial freeze-dried foods.

5. Can freeze-dried food cause problems for dogs?

For the most part, freeze-dried dog food is considered safe, and it can provide many nutritional benefits for your dog. Quality varies by brand and by recipe, however, so some formulas may be better than others. A recipe that contains too many plant-based ingredients, especially low-value grains like wheat and corn, won’t be as good for your dog as one primarily composed of meat, organs, and bone.

It’s also important to note that the process of freeze drying removes the moisture from the raw ingredients. This helps kill bacteria and makes the product shelf-stable, but it robs the food of essential moisture. Dogs require moisture in their diet for proper hydration, so it’s best to rehydrate your dog’s freeze-dried food before feeding it to him and provide plenty of fresh water.

While commercial freeze-dried diets are generally formulated for nutritional adequacy, homemade raw diets come with a risk for nutritional imbalance or deficiencies. If you’re going to feed your dog raw or freeze-dried raw food, make sure to choose a recipe formulated by a veterinarian or veterinary nutritionist.

The post 10 Best Freeze-Dried Dog Foods appeared first on Pet Food Sherpa.

10 Best Puppy Dog Foods

Kate Barrington — Sat, 05 Mar 2022 10:30:41 +0000

1. The Best Puppy Food Formulas in 2024
2. Price Vs Overall Score Comparison
3. Why Should You Trust Us
4. The Best Puppy Food - What You Need to Know

Growing puppies need a higher concentration of protein and fat in their diets to fuel their growth and development. Protein provides essential amino acids to help your puppy grow healthy muscle tissue.

Fats provide a concentrated source of calories and help with nutrient transport and development of cell membranes. Omega-3 fatty acids like DHA and EPA are particularly important for puppies.

The best puppy food starts with a high-quality source of animal-based protein. The more protein the better, though it should always be balanced with healthy fats. Carbohydrate content shouldn’t overshadow protein content and the food should be free from low-value grains like corn, wheat, and so as well as artificial additives. Read on to see our top picks for the best dog food for puppies on the market today.

The Best Puppy Food Formulas in 2024

ORIJEN Puppy Grain-Free Dry Puppy Food

79%

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Rating

Price 29%

Size Variety 100%

Quality of Ingredients 93%

Customer Experience 90%

Nutrient Value 66%

Recall History 100%

Manufacturing Method 40%

Product info

Age Range:Puppy Cost per day:$0.19

Company info

Company HQAlberta, Canada Parent companyChampion Petfoods

Overview

Formulated to support the needs of a growing puppy, this dry food formula contains 85% premium animal ingredients. The first five ingredients are fresh or raw, including species-appropriate animal proteins like chicken, turkey, and chicken giblets. Overall, this formula is incredibly rich in protein and contains plenty of essential fatty acids from fish, chicken fat, and fish oil to provide for your growing puppies caloric needs.

Ingredients

Deboned Chicken, Deboned Turkey, ﬂounder, Eggs, Whole Atlantic Mackerel, Chicken Liver, Turkey Liver, Chicken Heart, Turkey Heart, Whole Atlantic Herring, Dehydrated Chicken, Dehydrated Turkey, Dehydrated Mackerel, Dehydrated Chicken Liver, Dehydrated Egg, Whole Red Lentils, Whole Pinto Beans, Whole Green Peas, Chicken Necks, Chicken Kidney, Chicken Fat, Lentil Fiber, Pollock Oil, Whole Green Lentils, Whole Navy Beans, Natural Chicken ﬂavor, Whole Chickpeas, Ground Chicken Bone, Chicken Cartilage, Mixed Tocopherols (Preservative), Salt, Whole Pumpkin, Collard Greens, Whole Carrots, Whole Apples, Freezedried Chicken Liver, Dried Kelp, Zinc Proteinate, Thiamine Mononitrate, D-Pantothenic Acid, Copper Proteinate, Chicory Root, Turmeric, Sarsaparilla Root, Althea Root, Rosehips, Juniper Berries, Dried Lactobacillus Acidophilus Fermentation Product, Dried Bifidobacterium Animalis Fermentation Product, Dried Lactobacillus Casei Fermentation Product.

Guaranteed Analysis

Protein: 38%

Fat: 20%

Fiber: 6%

Moisture: 12%

Ash: 0%

Carb: 24%

Dry Matter Analysis

Protein: 43.18%

Fat: 22.73%

Fiber: 6.82%

Ash: 8%

Carb: 27.27%

Made with 85% animal ingredients, very protein-rich
Rich in essential fatty acids from animal sources
Supplemented with probiotics to support digestion

Contains a significant number of plant ingredients
Fairly expensive

Chicken Soup for the Soul Puppy Pate Chicken

73%

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Rating

Price 79%

Quality of Ingredients 74%

Customer Experience 88%

Nutrient Value 62%

Recall History 100%

Manufacturing Method 50%

Product info

Age Range:Puppy Cost per day:$0.36

Company info

Company HQCos Cob, Connecticut Parent companyChicken Soup for the Soul Inc.

Overview

Canned food provides your puppy with essential moisture to support hydration and it is often lower in carbohydrates than dry food. This Chicken Soup for the Soul recipe is packed with protein from animal sources like chicken, turkey, duck, and salmon. Wholesome grains provide essential nutrients with fish oil as a rich source of omega-3 fatty acids. It also contains fiber for healthy digestion.

Ingredients

Chicken, Chicken Liver, Turkey, Chicken Broth, Turkey Broth, Duck, Salmon, Whole Grain Brown Rice, Oatmeal, Carrots, Peas, Potatoes, Flaxseed, Ground Barley, Dried Egg Product, Fish Oil (Preserved With Mixed Tocopherols), Potassium Chloride, Salt, Apples, Cranberries, Dried Kelp, Cassia Gum, Xanthan Gum, Inulin, Vitamins (Thiamine Mononitrate, Vitamin E Supplement, Niacin Supplement, D-Calcium Pantothenate, Vitamin A Supplement, Riboflavin Supplement, Biotin, Vitamin B12 Supplement, Pyridoxine Hydrochloride Vitamin D3 Supplement, Folic Acid), Minerals (Ferrous Sulfate, Zinc Oxide, Copper Proteinate, Sodium Selenite, Manganese Sulfate, Potassium Iodide), Yucca Schidigera Extract, Choline Chloride, Tricalcium Phosphate, Parsley, Rosemary Extract.

Guaranteed Analysis

Protein: 9%

Fat: 6%

Fiber: 1%

Moisture: 78%

Ash: 0%

Carb: 6%

Dry Matter Analysis

Protein: 40.91%

Fat: 27.27%

Fiber: 4.55%

Ash: 8%

Carb: 27.27%

Packed with protein from numerous animal sources
Wholesome grains provide essential nutrients
Fish oil provides a rich source of omega-3 fatty acids

Contains some starchy plant ingredients

Instinct Original Puppy Grain-Free Real Chicken Recipe Wet Canned Dog Food

72%

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Rating

Price 55%

Quality of Ingredients 78%

Customer Experience 63%

Nutrient Value 71%

Recall History 100%

Manufacturing Method 50%

Product info

Age Range:Puppy Cost per day:$0.56

Company info

Company HQLincoln, Nebraska Parent companyM.I. Industries

Overview

High in protein to support your puppy’s growth and development, this canned food formula from Instinct features fresh chicken. Beef liver and salmon provide supplemental protein as well. This recipe contains plenty of moisture to support your dog’s hydration and the short list of main ingredients makes it an easily digestible formula as well.

Ingredients

Chicken, Chicken Broth, Beef Liver, Salmon, Carrots, Peas, Flaxseed, Egg Product, Salt, Potassium Chloride, Minerals (Zinc Proteinate, Iron Proteinate, Copper Proteinate, Manganese Proteinate, Sodium Selenite, Cobalt Proteinate, Potassium Iodide), Dicalcium Phosphate, Vitamins (Vitamin E Supplement, Thiamine Mononitrate, Niacin Supplement, d-Calcium Pantothenate, Vitamin A Supplement, Riboflavin Supplement, Biotin, Vitamin B12 Supplement, Pyridoxine Hydrochloride, Vitamin D3 Supplement, Folic Acid), Choline Chloride, Artichokes, Cranberries, Pumpkin, Tomato, Blueberries, Broccoli, Cabbage, Kale, Parsley.

Guaranteed Analysis

Protein: 10%

Fat: 6%

Fiber: 3%

Moisture: 78%

Ash: 0%

Carb: 3%

Dry Matter Analysis

Protein: 45.45%

Fat: 27.27%

Fiber: 13.64%

Ash: 8%

Carb: 13.64%

Plenty of protein from fresh chicken, beef liver, and salmon
Limited list of ingredients improves digestibility
Rich in moisture to support your puppy’s hydration

Contains several plant ingredients

CANIDAE PURE Puppy Grain-Free Limited Ingredient Chicken Recipe Canned Dog Food

69%

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Rating

Price 62%

Quality of Ingredients 82%

Customer Experience 75%

Nutrient Value 62%

Recall History 71%

Manufacturing Method 50%

Product info

Age Range:Puppy Cost per day:$0.50

Company info

Company HQNorco, California Parent companyCanidae Corporation

Overview

Formualted with just four main ingredients, this limited ingredient chicken recipe from Canidae is a great option for puppies with food allergies or sensitive stomachs. Fresh chicken is the main ingredient, supplemented with additional protein from dried eggs. Salmon oil provides a rich source of omega-3 fatty acids, balanced with omega-6s from sunflower oil. Plus, being a canned food formula, this recipe is rich in moisture to support your puppy’s hydration.

Ingredients

Chicken, Chicken Broth, Dried Egg Product, Peas, Salmon Oil (Preserved with Mixed Tocopherols), Potassium Chloride, Salt, Sunflower Oil, Agar-agar, Choline Chloride, Sodium Tripolyphosphate, Vitamin E Supplement, Zinc Sulfate, Niacin Supplement, Ferrous Sulfate, Thiamine Mononitrate, Zinc Proteinate, Manganese Sulfate, Vitamin A Supplement, L-Ascorbyl-2-Polyphosphate, Iron Proteinate, d-Calcium Pantothenate, Copper Sulfate, Pyridoxine Hydrochloride, Manganese Proteinate, Potassium Iodide, Riboflavin Supplement, Copper Proteinate, Folic Acid, Vitamin D3 Supplement, Cobalt Proteinate, Sodium Selenite, Biotin, Vitamin B12 Supplement, Rosemary Extract.

Guaranteed Analysis

Protein: 9%

Fat: 6.5%

Fiber: 1%

Moisture: 78%

Ash: 0%

Carb: 5.5%

Dry Matter Analysis

Protein: 40.91%

Fat: 29.55%

Fiber: 4.55%

Ash: 8%

Carb: 25%

Fresh chicken as the main ingredient supplemented with egg
Salmon oil provides a rich source of omega-3 fatty acids
Plenty of moisture to support hydration

Contains some peas

VICTOR Purpose Nutra Pro Dry Dog Food

68%

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Rating

Price 83%

Size Variety 100%

Quality of Ingredients 73%

Customer Experience 85%

Nutrient Value 64%

Recall History 32%

Manufacturing Method 40%

Product info

Age Range:Adult Cost per day:$0.09

Company info

Company HQMt Pleasant, Texas Parent companyMid America Pet Food

Overview

Victor offers a wide variety of dog food formulas, many of which are designed to meet the nutritional needs of dogs in all life stages. Though the quick facts on Chewy list it as an adult recipe, it’s actually formulated according to AAFCO nutrient profiles for puppies and pregnant or lactating females as well.

If you’re looking for a recipe you can feed your dog from puppyhood into adulthood, this is one to consider. It’s made with 92% protein from animal sources like chicken meal and menhaden fish meal. It also contains nutrient-rich chicken fat for essential fatty acids.

Ingredients

Chicken Meal, Blood Meal Conventionally Dried, Whole Grain Millet, Chicken Fat (preserved with mixed Tocopherols), Yeast Culture, Grain Sorghum, Menhaden Fish Meal (source of DHA-Docosahexaenoic Acid), Beef Meal, Dehydrated Alfalfa Meal, Natural Flavor, Potassium Chloride, Carrot Powder, Tomato Pomace, Salt, Organic Dried Seaweed Meal, Taurine, Choline Chloride, Calcium Stearate, Zinc Methionine Complex, Vitamin E Supplement, DL-Methionine, Iron Amino Acid Complex, Hydrolyzed Yeast, Manganese Amino Acid Complex, Silicon Dioxide, L-Carnitine, Selenium Yeast, Brewers Dried Yeast, Dried Enterococcus Faecium Fermentation Product, Dried Lactobacillus Acidophilus Fermentation Product, Dried Aspergillus Oryzae Fermentation Extract, Dried Trichoderma Longibrachiatum Fermentation Extract, Dried Bacillus Subtilis Fermentation Extract, Copper Sulfate, Niacin Supplement, Vitamin B12 Supplement, Vitamin A Supplement, D-Calcium Pantothenate, Thiamine Mononitrate, Biotin, Yucca Schidigera Extract, Calcium Carbonate, Riboflavin Supplement, Calcium Iodate, Pyridoxine Hydrochloride, Vitamin D3 Supplement, Tetrasodium Pyrophosphate, Vegetable Oil, Rosemary Extract, Green Tea Extract, Spearmint Extract, Inulin, Lecithin, Folic Acid.

Guaranteed Analysis

Protein: 38%

Fat: 18%

Fiber: 3.5%

Moisture: 9%

Ash: 0%

Carb: 31.5%

Dry Matter Analysis

Protein: 41.76%

Fat: 19.78%

Fiber: 3.85%

Ash: 8%

Carb: 34.62%

Made with 92% protein from animal sources
Chicken fat provides a nutritious source of essential fatty acids
Supplemented with probiotics for digestive support

High carbohydrate content
May be too high in fiber for some dogs

Merrick Grain Free Wet Puppy Food Puppy Plate Beef Recipe

67%

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Rating

Price 62%

Size Variety 100%

Quality of Ingredients 69%

Customer Experience 73%

Nutrient Value 69%

Recall History 32%

Manufacturing Method 50%

Product info

Age Range:Puppy Cost per day:$0.51

Company info

Company HQAmarillo, Texas Parent companyNestlé Purina PetCare Company

Overview

This beef recipe canned food from Merrick is packed with protein, moisture, and flavor. It features deboned beef simmered in a flavorful gravy with carrots, sweet potatoes, and apples to provide complete and balanced nutrition. This recipe is supplemented with salmon oil to provide omega-3 fatty acids and beef liver for added flavor and a boost of nutrition.

Ingredients

Deboned Beef, Beef Broth, Carrots, Sweet Potatoes, Apples, Natural Flavor, Beef Liver, Minerals (Potassium Chloride, Zinc Sulfate, Ferrous Sulfate, Copper Sulfate, Manganese Sulfate, Potassium Iodide, Sodium Selenite), Potato Starch, Potato Protein, Sodium Phosphate, Flaxseed Oil, Calcium Carbonate, Agar-Agar, Salmon Oil, Salt, Dried Celery, Vitamins (Vitamin E Supplement, Niacin, Thiamine Mononitrate, Calcium Pantothenate, Pyridoxine Hydrochloride, Vitamin B-12 Supplement, Riboflavin Supplement, Vitamin A Supplement, Folic Acid, Vitamin D-3 Supplement, Biotin), Choline Chloride, Xanthan Gum, Guar Gum, Flaxseed, Locust Bean Gum, Cumin, Fruit Juice Color, Cinnamon.

Guaranteed Analysis

Protein: 8%

Fat: 3%

Fiber: 3%

Moisture: 82%

Ash: 0%

Carb: 4%

Dry Matter Analysis

Protein: 44.44%

Fat: 16.67%

Fiber: 16.67%

Ash: 8%

Carb: 22.22%

Deboned beef simmered in flavorful gravy
Salmon oil provides a rich source of omega-3 fatty acids
Rich in moisture to support your puppy’s hydration

Contains several starchy plant ingredients
Made with some plant protein concentrate (potato protein)

Blue Buffalo Life Protection Formula Puppy Chicken & Brown Rice Recipe Dry Dog Food

62%

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Rating

Price 73%

Size Variety 100%

Quality of Ingredients 67%

Customer Experience 87%

Nutrient Value 40%

Recall History 44%

Manufacturing Method 40%

Product info

Age Range:Puppy Cost per day:$0.10

Company info

Company HQWilton, Connecticut Parent companyBlue Buffalo Company, Ltd.

Overview

This Life Protection formula from Blue Buffalo is designed to support the needs of growing puppies. In addition to plenty of protein from deboned chicken and chicken meal, it contains a rich blend of essential fatty acids from animal sources. Like all Blue Buffalo formulas, it’s also supplemented with LifeSource Bits which contain a proprietary blend of nutrients to support balanced nutrition.

Ingredients

Deboned Chicken, Chicken Meal, Brown Rice, Oatmeal, Barley, Menhaden Fish Meal (Source of Omega 3 Fatty Acids), Peas, Chicken Fat (Preserved with Mixed Tocopherols), Flaxseed (Source of Omega 6 Fatty Acids), Natural Flavor, Dried Tomato Pomace, Dried Egg Product, Pea Protein, Fish Oil (Source of Ara-Arachidonic Acid And Dha-Docosahexaenoic Acid), Salt, Potassium Chloride, Choline Chloride, Dehydrated Alfalfa Meal, Dicalcium Phosphate, Potatoes, Dried Chicory Root, Pea Fiber, Alfalfa Nutrient Concentrate, Calcium Carbonate, Dl-Methionine, Preserved with Mixed Tocopherols, Vitamin E Supplement, Sweet Potatoes, Carrots, Garlic, Zinc Amino Acid Chelate, Zinc Sulfate, Vegetable Juice For Color, Ferrous Sulfate, Iron Amino Acid Chelate, Blueberries, Cranberries, Barley Grass, Parsley, Turmeric, Dried Kelp, Yucca Schidigera Extract, Niacin (Vitamin B3), Calcium Pantothenate (Vitamin B5), L-Carnitine, L-Ascorbyl-2-Polyphosphate (Source of Vitamin C), L-Lysine, Copper Sulfate, Biotin (Vitamin B7), Vitamin A Supplement, Copper Amino Acid Chelate, Manganese Sulfate, Taurine, Manganese Amino Acid Chelate, Thiamine Mononitrate (Vitamin B1), Riboflavin (Vitamin B2) Vitamin D3 Supplement, Vitamin B12 Supplement, Pyridoxine Hydrochloride (Vitamin B6), Calcium Iodate, Dried Yeast, Dried Enterococcus Faecium Fermentation Product, Dried Lactobacillus Acidophilus Fermentation Product, Dried Aspergillus Niger Fermentation Extract, Dried Trichoderma Longibrachiatum Fermentation Extract, Dried Bacillus Subtilis Fermentation Extract, Folic Acid (Vitamin B9), Sodium Selenite, Oil of Rosemary.

Guaranteed Analysis

Protein: 27%

Fat: 16%

Fiber: 5%

Moisture: 10%

Ash: 0%

Carb: 42%

Dry Matter Analysis

Protein: 30%

Fat: 17.78%

Fiber: 5.56%

Ash: 8%

Carb: 46.67%

Rich in protein from animal sources
Plenty of essential fatty acids from animal sources
Supplemented with nutrients from LifeSource Bits

Contains some plant protein concentrate (pea protein)
Significant number of plant ingredients

Nutro Natural Choice Puppy Chicken & Brown Rice Recipe Dry Dog Food

62%

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Rating

Price 57%

Size Variety 100%

Quality of Ingredients 67%

Customer Experience 89%

Nutrient Value 42%

Recall History 42%

Manufacturing Method 40%

Product info

Age Range:Puppy Cost per day:$0.13

Company info

Company HQFranklin, Tennessee Parent companyNutro Company, Inc

Overview

If you’re looking for an affordable option in nutritionally balanced puppy food, Nutro is the way to go. This chicken and brown rice recipe delivers a high-quality source of animal protein balanced with essential fatty acids. Chicken and chicken meal are the top two ingredients with nutrient-rich chicken fat as the primary source of added fat. Wholesome grains provide essential nutrients, balanced with vitamin and mineral supplements as needed.

Ingredients

Chicken, Chicken Meal, Whole Grain Barley, Brewers Rice, Whole Grain Brown Rice, Potato Protein, Chicken Fat (preserved with Mixed Tocopherols), Rice Bran, Natural Flavor, Dried Plain Beet Pulp, Fish Oil (preserved with Mixed Tocopherols), Salt, Potassium Chloride, Choline Chloride, Citric Acid (preservative), Mixed Tocopherols (preservative), Chia Seed, Dried Coconut, Dried Tomato Pomace, Dried Egg Product, Dried Pumpkin, Dried Kale, Dried Spinach, Vitamin E Supplement, Ferrous Sulfate, Zinc Oxide, Sodium Selenite, Ascorbic Acid (Vitamin C), D-Calcium Pantothenate, Manganese Sulfate, Copper Sulfate, Biotin, Thiamine Mononitrate (Vitamin B1), Vitamin B12 Supplement, Vitamin A Supplement, Niacin Supplement, Riboflavin Supplement (Vitamin B2), Pyridoxine Hydrochloride (Vitamin B6), Vitamin D3 Supplement, Manganous Oxide, Potassium Iodide, Folic Acid, Rosemary Extract.

Guaranteed Analysis

Protein: 28%

Fat: 16%

Fiber: 3%

Moisture: 10%

Ash: 0%

Carb: 43%

Dry Matter Analysis

Protein: 31.11%

Fat: 17.78%

Fiber: 3.33%

Ash: 8%

Carb: 47.78%

Two sources of animal-based protein as the main ingredients
Nutrient-rich chicken fat as the primary added fat
Wholesome grains provide natural sources for key nutrients

Fairly high carbohydrate content

Wellness Complete Health Just for Puppy Canned Dog Food

61%

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Rating

Price 62%

Size Variety 64%

Quality of Ingredients 62%

Customer Experience 86%

Nutrient Value 62%

Recall History 35%

Manufacturing Method 50%

Product info

Age Range:Puppy Cost per day:$0.51

Company info

Company HQTewksbury, Massachusetts Parent companyWellPet LLC

Overview

Canned food is a great option for puppies because it provides plenty of protein as well as moisture to support hydration. This Wellness Complete Health formula is a popular choice, featuring fresh chicken, chicken liver, and salmon as the three main ingredients. A limited number of wholesome grains and fresh produce ingredients provide nutrients along with vitamin and mineral supplements to ensure optimal nutritional balance.

Ingredients

Chicken Broth, Chicken, Chicken Liver, Salmon, Ground Barley, Sweet Potatoes, Pea Protein, Carrots, Ground Flaxseed, Canola Oil, Carrageenan, Guar Gum, Dicalcium Phosphate, Apples, Pears, Bananas, Salt, Potassium Chloride, Choline Chloride, Zinc Proteinate, Iron Proteinate, Thiamine Mononitrate, Vitamin E Supplement, Copper Proteinate, Manganese Proteinate, Sodium Selenite, Cobalt Proteinate, Niacin Supplement, d-Calcium Pantothenate, Vitamin A Supplement, Riboflavin Supplement, Biotin, Vitamin B12 Supplement, Potassium Iodide, Vitamin D3 Supplement, Folic Acid.

Guaranteed Analysis

Protein: 9%

Fat: 6%

Fiber: 1%

Moisture: 78%

Ash: 0%

Carb: 6%

Dry Matter Analysis

Protein: 40.91%

Fat: 27.27%

Fiber: 4.55%

Ash: 8%

Carb: 27.27%

Contains three high-quality sources of animal protein
Rich in moisture to support hydration
Limited number of main ingredients, easily digestible

Contains carrageenan and gum thickeners

Taste of the Wild Pacific Stream Puppy Recipe Grain-Free Dry Dog Food

60%

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Rating

Price 65%

Size Variety 88%

Quality of Ingredients 72%

Customer Experience 90%

Nutrient Value 40%

Recall History 26%

Manufacturing Method 40%

Product info

Age Range:Puppy Cost per day:$0.11

Company info

Company HQMeta, Missouri Parent companyDiamond Pet Foods, Inc.

Overview

From the popular brand Taste of the Wild, this dry food formula is designed to support the high protein and calorie requirements of growing puppies. A grain-free formula, this recipe features fresh salmon and ocean fish meal as the top two ingredients. It also contains supplemental protein from smoked salmon and salmon meal with salmon oil as a rich source of skin- and coat-supporting omega-3 fatty acids.

Ingredients

Salmon, Ocean Fish Meal, Sweet Potatoes, Peas, Potatoes, Canola Oil (Preserved With Mixed Tocopherols), Pea Protein, Tomato Pomace, Smoked Salmon, Salmon Meal, Natural Flavor, Salmon Oil (A Source Of DHA), Salt, Choline Chloride, Taurine, Dried Chicory Root, Yucca Schidigera Extract, Tomatoes, Blueberries, Raspberries, Dried Lactobacillus Plantarum Fermentation Product, Dried Bacillus Subtilis Fermentation Product, Dried Lactobacillus Acidophilus Fermentation Product, Dried Enterococcus Faecium Fermentation Product, Dried Bifidobacterium Animalis Fermentation Product, Vitamin E Supplement, Iron Proteinate, Zinc Proteinate, Copper Proteinate, Ferrous Sulfate, Zinc Sulfate, Manganese Sulfate, Copper Sulfate, Potassium Iodide, Thiamine Mononitrate, Manganese Proteinate, Ascorbic Acid, Vitamin A Supplement, Biotin, Niacin, Calcium Pantothenate, Sodium Selenite, Pyridoxine Hydrochloride, Vitamin B12 Supplement, Riboflavin, Vitamin D3 Supplement, Folic Acid. Contains A Source Of Live (Viable), Naturally Occurring Microorganisms.

Guaranteed Analysis

Protein: 27%

Fat: 15%

Fiber: 5%

Moisture: 10%

Ash: 0%

Carb: 43%

Dry Matter Analysis

Protein: 30%

Fat: 16.67%

Fiber: 5.56%

Ash: 8%

Carb: 47.78%

Packed with animal-based protein from several fish sources
Salmon oil provides a rich source of omega-3 fatty acids
Supplemented with probiotics to support digestion

Contains several starchy plant ingredients
Fairly high carbohydrate content

Price Vs Overall Score Comparison

Why Should You Trust Us

As dog parents ourselves, we understand how hard it is to choose the right puppy dog food with so many recipes available on the market in 2024. So how do you navigate past marketing claims to get real facts?

That’s where we come in. With over 6735 recipe reviews, Pet Food Sherpa is the largest database for dog food recipe reviews overseen by a vet nutrition specialist.

Our team has analyzed over 303 puppy dog foods and selected the 10 best recipes, we then used our pet food algorithm to determine the scores for each recipe.

You should keep in mind that no single puppy dog food is right for all dogs. Instead, use our list as a research tool to help you make a better-informed decision on your pup’s diet.

The Best Puppy Food - What You Need to Know

1. How much should I feed a puppy?

Providing your puppy with a nutritious, calorie-dense diet is essential for optimal growth and development. When it comes to how much to feed your puppy, however, recommendations vary according to your puppy’s age and weight.

If your puppy is already fully weaned onto solid food (as he should be by 8 weeks of age), you should work on developing a daily feeding routine. Puppies generally require at least three meals a day, though small and toy breeds may need four. Very small puppies are prone to hypoglycemia because they burn through calories very quickly, so they may need to be fed more often than larger breeds.

Here is a chart to give you a general idea how much to feed your puppy:

Weight at Maturity	Cups (age 1.5 to 6 months)	Cups (age 6 to 12 months)
3 lbs.	¾	½
6 lbs.	1 ¼	¾
10 lbs.	1 ¾	1 ¼
15 lbs.	2 ½	1 2/3
20 lbs.	3	2
30 lbs.	4	2 ¾
40 lbs.	5	3 1/3
50 lbs.	6	4
60 lbs.	6 ¾	4 2/3
70 lbs.	7 2/3	5 ¼
80 lbs.	8 ½	5 2/3

While the chart above is certainly helpful in giving you a general guideline for feeding puppies, there are numerous factors to consider. Calorie content varies from one recipe to another, so it’s really best to refer to the feeding recommendations on the label. Keep in mind as well that your puppy’s calorie needs may change as he matures, so be prepared to adjust his daily portion every month or two.

If you’re feeding your puppy wet food, the chart above won’t work for you. Again, it’s best to follow the feeding recommendations on the package. Whether you’re feeding dry puppy food or wet puppy food, be sure to choose a recipe formulated for your puppy’s breed size to make sure it has the right balance of calories, calcium, and phosphorus.

2. What is the difference between puppy food and dog food?

All dogs have the same basic nutritional requirements, but certain nutrients are required in higher concentrations for growing puppies.

The primary difference between puppy food and adult dog food has to do with protein. Protein is essential for healthy growth and development in puppies, so puppy food generally has higher protein levels than adult dog food. According to AAFCO nutrient profiles, puppies require a minimum of 22% protein in their diets and adult dogs a minimum of 18%.

In addition to higher levels of protein, puppy foods also tend to be more concentrated in calories. Puppies require a steady influx of energy to fuel their rapid growth and higher calorie content generally comes from a higher fat content.

Another difference between puppy food and adult dog food has to do with the ratio of calcium to phosphorus. Calcium is an essential mineral that supports bone growth, so it’s something puppies need in higher amounts than adult dogs. It’s important, however, to make sure the calcium and phosphorus levels are in balance because excessive phosphorus can actually leech away calcium.

Optimal calcium and phosphorus ratios are a good reason to feed your puppy a recipe that is formulated for specific breed sizes. Large and giant breeds need controlled levels of these essential nutrients to prevent overgrowth that might contribute to orthopedic problems in adulthood.
Simply put, puppy food is formulated to meet the nutritional needs of growing puppies while adult dog food is formulated to support maintenance.

3. Can puppies eat adult dog food?

There’s certainly nothing harmful about adult dog food for puppies, but it isn’t formulated to support optimal growth and development. Adult dog food is designed to help your dog maintain balanced nutrition and an ideal body weight while puppy food is designed to help your puppy grow.

Puppies require higher levels of protein and fat in their diet than adult dogs, so that is how puppy foods are formulated. Feeding your puppy an adult dog food recipe might keep him from getting the protein he needs for healthy muscle development and the fat he needs for energy. There are also some differences in calcium and phosphorus content between puppy and adult foods that might contribute to nutritional deficiencies or orthopedic issues in puppies being fed adult diets.

If your puppy sneaks bites from an adult dog’s bowl, you probably don’t have to worry about anything except minor digestive upset. That being said, it’s best to feed a puppy puppy food and an adult dog adult dog food.

4. When should I transition from puppy to dog food?

There’s no hard and fast rule for when to transition a puppy onto adult dog food because it varies according to your puppy’s breed size. Quite simply, small breeds reach maturity faster than adult breeds so they generally need to be transitioned onto adult dog food sooner.

Puppy food is formulated to support growth and development, so it only makes sense to transition your puppy onto an adult diet when he stops growing. In order to do so, you’ll need to pay attention to your puppy’s weight and have some idea of his expected adult size. Throughout his puppy life, you’ll need to adjust his daily portion according to his age and weight, but you’ll want to start making the transition when he reaches about 80% of his expected adult weight.

It can be tricky to know when to switch a mixed breed dog from puppy to adult food because you may not know how big he’s going to get. You might need to enlist your veterinarian’s help to track your puppy’s weight and when you notice a steady decline in growth start thinking about making the switch.

5. Is it okay to give a puppy regular dog food?

There’s nothing harmful about giving your puppy a few bites of adult dog food here and there, but it certainly shouldn’t be his staple diet. To put it plainly, puppy food is best for puppies and adult dog food is best for adult dogs.

While adult dog food won’t be harmful to your puppy, it won’t support his optimal growth and development. Puppy food is higher in protein and fat than adult dog food, so it provides the calories and amino acids needed to support muscle development and healthy rate of growth. Puppy foods are also optimized for other essential nutrients like calcium and phosphorus that your puppy may need in higher concentrations for bone growth.

The best thing to do is choose a nutritionally complete puppy food formulated for your puppy’s breed size and follow the feeding recommendations on the label.

The post 10 Best Puppy Dog Foods appeared first on Pet Food Sherpa.

10 Best Wet Dog Foods

Kate Barrington — Tue, 22 Feb 2022 21:51:21 +0000

1. Why Should You Trust Us
2. Best Wet, Canned and Soft Dog Food Formulas in 2024
3. Price Vs Overall Score Comparison
4. Wet Dog Food Frequently Asked Questions

Why Should You Trust Us

As dog parents ourselves, we understand how hard it is to choose the right wet dog food with so many recipes available in 2024. So how do you navigate past marketing claims to get real facts?

That’s where we come in. With over 6735 recipe reviews, Pet Food Sherpa is the largest database for dog food recipe reviews overseen by a vet nutrition specialist.

Our team has analyzed over 1454 wet dog foods and selected the 10 best recipes, we then used our pet food algorithm to determine the scores for each recipe.

You should keep in mind that no single wet dog food is right for all dogs. Instead, use our list as a research tool to help you make a better-informed decision on your dog’s diet.

Best Wet, Canned and Soft Dog Food Formulas in 2024

Ziwi Peak Venison Recipe Canned Dog Food

76%

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Rating

Price 41%

Quality of Ingredients 89%

Customer Experience 81%

Nutrient Value 71%

Recall History 100%

Manufacturing Method 50%

Product info

Age Range:Adult Cost per day:$1.28

Company info

Company HQMt. Maunganui, New Zealand Parent companyZiwi Ltd

Overview

If you’re looking for a single-protein formula for dogs with food allergies or sensitive stomachs, this Ziwi Peak recipe is a great pick. Packed with animal-based protein from New Zealand venison, this formula contains 92% meat, organs, bone, and New Zealand green mussels. Plus, it’s supplemented with superfood ingredients to promote mobility, vitality, and overall wellbeing.

Ingredients

Venison, Water Sufficient for Processing, Venison Tripe, Venison Liver, Chickpeas, Venison Lung, Venison Heart, Venison Kidney, New Zealand Green Mussel, Venison Bone, Lecithin, Minerals (Dipotassium Phosphate, Magnesium Sulfate, Zinc Amino Acid Complex, Copper Amino Acid Complex, Selenium Yeast, Manganese Amino Acid Complex), Dried Kelp, Salt, Vitamins (Vitamin E Supplement, Thiamine Mononitrate, Vitamin B5 Supplement, Vitamin D3 Supplement, Folic Acid).

Guaranteed Analysis

Protein: 10%

Fat: 4%

Fiber: 2%

Moisture: 78%

Ash: 3%

Carb: 3%

Dry Matter Analysis

Protein: 45.45%

Fat: 18.18%

Fiber: 9.09%

Ash: 13.64%

Carb: 13.64%

Free-range venison as a single source of protein
Made with 92% meat, organs, bone, and mussels
Rich in moisture to support hydration

Very expensive compared to average wet food

American Journey Chicken & Turkey Recipe Grain-Free Canned Dog Food

74%

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Rating

Price 83%

Quality of Ingredients 76%

Customer Experience 84%

Nutrient Value 62%

Recall History 100%

Manufacturing Method 50%

Product info

Age Range:Adult Cost per day:$0.39

Company info

Company HQBern,Kansas Parent companyChewy Inc.

Overview

Affordability is a key concern for many pet owners and this canned food formula from American Journey offers exceptional value. Packed with animal protein from fresh chicken and turkey, this recipe is full of species-appropriate nutrition. Fish oil provides a rich source of omega-3 fatty acids while vitamin and mineral supplements ensure complete and balanced nutrition.

Ingredients

Chicken, Chicken Broth, Turkey, Chicken Liver, Potatoes, Natural Flavor, Guar Gum, Flaxseed, Cassia Gum, Xanthan Gum, Fish Oil (Preserved with Mixed Tocopherols), Salt, Potassium Chloride, Choline Chloride, Yucca Schidigera Extract, Zinc Proteinate, Iron Proteinate, Sunflower Oil, Vitamin E Supplement, Copper Proteinate, Manganese Proteinate, Sodium Selenite, Thiamine Mononitrate, Cobalt Proteinate, Niacin Supplement, d-Calcium Pantothenate, Vitamin A Supplement, Riboflavin Supplement, Biotin, Vitamin B12 Supplement, Potassium Iodide, Pyridoxine Hydrochloride, Vitamin D3 Supplement, Folic Acid, Rosemary Extract.

Guaranteed Analysis

Protein: 9%

Fat: 6%

Fiber: 1.5%

Moisture: 78%

Ash: 0%

Carb: 5.5%

Dry Matter Analysis

Protein: 40.91%

Fat: 27.27%

Fiber: 6.82%

Ash: 8%

Carb: 25%

Made with fresh chicken and turkey
Limited list of main ingredients
Rich in moisture to support hydration

Contains several gum thickeners

Zignature Trout & Salmon Limited Ingredient Formula Grain-Free Canned Dog Food

74%

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Rating

Price 75%

Size Variety 100%

Quality of Ingredients 62%

Customer Experience 83%

Nutrient Value 62%

Recall History 100%

Manufacturing Method 50%

Product info

Age Range:Adult Cost per day:$0.56

Company info

Company HQNorth Hollywood, California Parent companyPets Global, Inc.

Overview

Dogs who suffer from food allergies and sensitive stomachs may benefit from a diet made with a limited number of digestible ingredients. This Zignature formula features fresh trout and salmon as species-appropriate sources of animal protein and a limited number of other ingredients. It’s also completely free from fillers, by-products, and artificial additives.

Ingredients

Trout, Fish Broth, Salmon, Peas, Chickpeas, Agar-Agar, Calcium Carbonate, Salmon Meal, Sun-Cured Alfalfa Meal, Potassium Chloride, Salt, Choline Chloride, Minerals (Zinc Proteinate, Iron Proteinate, Copper Proteinate, Manganese Proteinate, Sodium Selenite, Calcium Iodate), Vitamins (Vitamin E Supplement, Thiamine Mononitrate, Niacin Supplement, Calcium Pantothenate, Biotin, Vitamin A Supplement, Riboflavin Supplement, Vitamin B12 Supplement, Pyridoxine Hydrochloride, Vitamin D3 Supplement, Folic Acid), Taurine, L-Carnitine.

Guaranteed Analysis

Protein: 9%

Fat: 5.5%

Fiber: 1%

Moisture: 78%

Ash: 0%

Carb: 6.5%

Dry Matter Analysis

Protein: 40.91%

Fat: 25%

Fiber: 4.55%

Ash: 8%

Carb: 29.55%

Rich in species-appropriate animal protein
Made with a limited number of main ingredients
Plenty of moisture to support hydration

Contains some added plant ingredients

CANIDAE All Life Stages Chicken & Rice Formula Canned Dog Food

72%

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Rating

Price 82%

Size Variety 83%

Quality of Ingredients 76%

Customer Experience 86%

Nutrient Value 62%

Recall History 71%

Manufacturing Method 50%

Product info

Age Range:Adult Cost per day:$0.42

Company info

Company HQNorco, California Parent companyCanidae Corporation

Overview

This popular canned food recipe is formulated for dogs in all life stages. It features fresh chicken simmered in a flavorful broth, providing plenty of hydration and animal-based protein for your dog. It also contains wholesome grains for energy and essential nutrients with salmon oil as a rich source of skin- and coat-supporting omega-3 fatty acids.

Ingredients

Chicken, Chicken Broth, Chicken Liver, Dried Egg Product, Brown Rice, Pearled Barley, Potassium Chloride, Salt, Salmon Oil (Preserved with Mixed Tocopherols), Sunflower Oil, Sodium Tripolyphosphate, Agar-agar, Choline Chloride, Canola Oil, Dried Kelp, Dried Cranberries, Yucca Schidigera Extract, Vitamin E Supplement, Zinc Sulfate, Niacin Supplement, Ferrous Sulfate, Thiamine Mononitrate, Zinc Proteinate, Manganese Sulfate, Vitamin A Supplement, L-Ascorbyl-2-Polyphosphate, Iron Proteinate, d-Calcium Pantothenate, Copper Sulfate, Pyridoxine Hydrochloride, Manganese Proteinate, Potassium Iodide, Riboflavin Supplement, Copper Proteinate, Folic Acid, Vitamin D3 Supplement, Cobalt Proteinate, Sodium Selenite, Biotin, Vitamin B12 Supplement, Rosemary Extract.

Guaranteed Analysis

Protein: 9%

Fat: 6.5%

Fiber: 1.5%

Moisture: 78%

Ash: 0%

Carb: 5%

Dry Matter Analysis

Protein: 40.91%

Fat: 29.55%

Fiber: 6.82%

Ash: 8%

Carb: 22.73%

Rich in animal-based protein
Salmon oil for omega-3 fatty acids
Plenty of moisture for hydration

Some dogs dislike the flavor and consistency

Purina Beyond Alaskan Cod

70%

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Rating

Price 86%

Quality of Ingredients 70%

Customer Experience 89%

Nutrient Value 53%

Recall History 100%

Manufacturing Method 50%

Product info

Age Range:Adult Cost per day:$0.33

Company info

Company HQSt. Louis, Missouri Parent companyNestlé Purina PetCare Company

Overview

Another affordable option in wet dog food, this Purina Beyond recipe features line-caught Alaskan cod and salmon. Supplemented with prebiotic fiber, this recipe supports your dog’s regular digestion and it’s rich in moisture for hydration. You’ll also be glad to know it’s free from corn, wheat, soy, by-product meals and artificial additives.

Ingredients

Cod, Chicken, Fish Broth, Turkey, Liver, Salmon, Sweet Potatoes, Inulin, MINERALS [Potassium Chloride, Zinc Sulfate, Ferrous Sulfate, Copper Sulfate, Manganese Sulfate, Potassium Iodide, Sodium Selenite], Guar Gum, Salt, Carrageenan, Choline Chloride, VITAMINS [Vitamin E Supplement, Niacin (Vitamin B-3), Thiamine Mononitrate (Vitamin B-1), Calcium Pantothenate (Vitamin B-5), Pyridoxine Hydrochloride (Vitamin B-6), Vitamin B-12 Supplement, Riboflavin Supplement (Vitamin B-2), Vitamin A Supplement, Folic Acid (Vitamin B-9), Vitamin D-3 Supplement, Biotin (Vitamin B-7)]. B424920.

Guaranteed Analysis

Protein: 8%

Fat: 5%

Fiber: 1.5%

Moisture: 78%

Ash: 0%

Carb: 7.5%

Dry Matter Analysis

Protein: 36.36%

Fat: 22.73%

Fiber: 6.82%

Ash: 8%

Carb: 34.09%

Made with line-caught cod and salmon
Supplemented with prebiotic fiber for digestion
Rich in moisture for hydration

Contains carrageenan

Chicken Soup for the Soul Adult Pate Chicken

70%

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Rating

Price 79%

Quality of Ingredients 73%

Customer Experience 86%

Nutrient Value 53%

Recall History 100%

Manufacturing Method 50%

Product info

Age Range:Adult Cost per day:$0.48

Company info

Company HQCos Cob, Connecticut Parent companyChicken Soup for the Soul Inc.

Overview

Chicken Soup is good for the soul and this canned food is good for your dog. This classic pate-style formula features fresh chicken and turkey as the top two ingredients with duck, salmon, and chicken liver further down the list. Wholesome grains like brown rice and oatmeal provide an added source of nutrition, balanced with essential vitamin and mineral supplements.

Ingredients

Chicken, Turkey, Chicken Broth, Turkey Broth, Duck, Salmon, Chicken Liver, Carrots, Brown Rice, Oatmeal, Ground Flaxseed, Peas, Potatoes, Ground Barley, Dried Egg Product, Potassium Chloride, Salt, Cassia Gum, Xanthan Gum, Apples, Cranberries, Dried Kelp, Inulin, Choline Chloride, Vitamins (Thiamine Mononitrate, Vitamin E Supplement, Niacin Supplement, D-Calcium Pantothenate, Vitamin A Supplement, Riboflavin Supplement, Biotin, Vitamin B12 Supplement, Pyridoxine Hydrochloride, Vitamin D3 Supplement, Folic Acid), Minerals (Ferrous Sulfate, Zinc Oxide, Copper Proteinate, Sodium Selenite, Manganese Sulfate, Potassium Iodide), Yucca Schidigera Extract, Parsley.

Guaranteed Analysis

Protein: 8%

Fat: 7%

Fiber: 1%

Moisture: 78%

Ash: 0%

Carb: 6%

Dry Matter Analysis

Protein: 36.36%

Fat: 31.82%

Fiber: 4.55%

Ash: 8%

Carb: 27.27%

Fresh chicken and turkey as the top two ingredients
Free from artificial additives, fillers, and by-products
Rich in moisture to support hydration

Contains numerous plant ingredients
Contains some gum thickeners

Nutro Hearty Stew Tender Chicken

69%

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Rating

Price 71%

Quality of Ingredients 72%

Customer Experience 86%

Nutrient Value 80%

Recall History 42%

Manufacturing Method 50%

Product info

Age Range:Adult Cost per day:$0.63

Company info

Company HQFranklin, Tennessee Parent companyNutro Company, Inc

Overview

For dogs who love a hearty, stew-like meal, this Nutro formula is sure to please. It’s packed with tender chicken, carrots, and peas to provide balanced nutrition with plenty of flavor. With chicken as the primary ingredient, it doesn’t contain any fillers, animal by-products or artificial additives.

Ingredients

Chicken, Pork Broth, Chicken Broth, Chicken Liver, Carrots, Peas, Dried Egg Product, Pork Plasma, Dried Peas, Tapioca Starch, Sunflower Oil (preserved with Mixed Tocopherols), Calcium Carbonate, Guar Gum, Salt, Potassium Chloride, Sodium Acid Pyrophosphate, Tetrasodium Pyrophosphate, Tricalcium Phosphate, Xanthan Gum, Natural Flavor, Dried Tomatoes, Magnesium Sulfate, Sodium Hexametaphosphate, Choline Chloride, Ferrous Sulfate, Vitamin E Supplement, Zinc Oxide, Copper Proteinate, D-Calcium Pantothenate, Sodium Selenite, Vitamin A Supplement, Manganese Sulfate, Thiamine Mononitrate, Biotin, Riboflavin Supplement, Potassium Iodide, Vitamin B12 Supplement, Pyridoxine Hydrochloride, Vitamin D3 Supplement.

Guaranteed Analysis

Protein: 9%

Fat: 3%

Fiber: 1%

Moisture: 82%

Ash: 0%

Carb: 5%

Dry Matter Analysis

Protein: 50%

Fat: 16.67%

Fiber: 5.56%

Ash: 8%

Carb: 27.78%

Rich in animal-based protein
Plenty of moisture to support hydration
Easily digestible with appealing flavor

Contains some vaguely named ingredients (animal plasma)
Made with several gum thickeners

Wellness Ninety-Five Percent Chicken Grain-Free Canned Dog Food Topper

67%

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Rating

Price 80%

Size Variety 83%

Quality of Ingredients 63%

Customer Experience 89%

Nutrient Value 71%

Recall History 35%

Manufacturing Method 50%

Product info

Age Range:Adult Cost per day:$0.47

Company info

Company HQTewksbury, Massachusetts Parent companyWellPet LLC

Overview

Packed with premium protein from fresh chicken, this canned dog food recipe delivers plenty of species-appropriate nutrition for dogs. It’s rich in moisture and full of chicken flavor, making it a great meal topper or mixer. This recipe is free from corn, wheat, and soy fillers as well as animal by-products.

Ingredients

Chicken, Water Sufficient For Processing, Natural Flavor, Cassia Gum, Carrageenan.

Guaranteed Analysis

Protein: 10%

Fat: 8%

Fiber: 1%

Moisture: 78%

Ash: 0%

Carb: 3%

Dry Matter Analysis

Protein: 45.45%

Fat: 36.36%

Fiber: 4.55%

Ash: 8%

Carb: 13.64%

Fresh chicken as the primary ingredient
Single source of species-appropriate animal protein
Rich in moisture to support hydration

Not a complete meal, mixer or topper only

Nutro Grain-Free Simmered Beef & Potato Stew Cuts in Gravy Dog Food Trays

63%

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Rating

Price 36%

Quality of Ingredients 75%

Customer Experience 77%

Nutrient Value 69%

Recall History 42%

Manufacturing Method 50%

Product info

Age Range:Adult Cost per day:$1.44

Company info

Company HQFranklin, Tennessee Parent companyNutro Company, Inc

Overview

For small dogs, you don’t want to open a big can of dog food and have to deal with the leftovers. These dog food trays from Nutro are a great option. Packed with fresh beef simmered in a flavorful gravy, this formula is everything your dog wants. It’s full of flavor but free from fillers, by-products, and artificial additives.

Ingredients

Beef, Chicken Broth, Pork Broth, Potatoes, Chicken, Tomatoes, Beef Liver, Carrots, Pork Plasma, Tapioca Starch, Dried Egg Product, Pea Fiber, Calcium Carbonate, Potassium Chloride, Salt, Choline Chloride, Dried Tomatoes, Xanthan Gum, Sodium Acid Pyrophosphate, Tetrasodium Pyrophosphate, Magnesium Proteinate, Sodium Hexametaphosphate, Manganese Sulfate, Zinc Sulfate, Vitamin E Supplement, D-Calcium Pantothenate, Biotin, Copper Sulfate, Thiamine Mononitrate, Riboflavin Supplement, Potassium Iodide, Vitamin A Supplement, Pyridoxine Hydrochloride, Vitamin B12 Supplement, Vitamin D3 Supplement.

Guaranteed Analysis

Protein: 8%

Fat: 3.5%

Fiber: 1.5%

Moisture: 82%

Ash: 0%

Carb: 5%

Dry Matter Analysis

Protein: 44.44%

Fat: 19.44%

Fiber: 8.33%

Ash: 8%

Carb: 27.78%

Conveniently packaged in 3.5-ounce trays
Fresh beef simmered in a flavorful gravy
Rich in moisture to support hydration

Contains some added plant ingredients

Stella & Chewy's Wild Red Grain-Free Chicken & Lamb Stew Wet Dog Food

62%

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Price 57%

Quality of Ingredients 78%

Customer Experience 58%

Nutrient Value 73%

Recall History 27%

Manufacturing Method 50%

Product info

Age Range:Adult Cost per day:$0.83

Company info

Company HQMilwaukee, Wisconsin Parent companyStella and Chewy’s LLC

Overview

Cooked in a savory broth, this chicken and lamb stew is packed with flavor. This nutrient-dense formula features shredded chicken and fresh lam in a combination of chicken and beef broths. It’s studded with pumpkin and carrots and supplemented with essential vitamins and minerals to ensure complete and balanced nutrition to support your dog’s wellness.

Ingredients

Chicken, Chicken Broth, Beef Broth, Pumpkin, Carrots, Lamb, Tapioca, Salt, Sunflower Oil, Flaxseed Oil, Guar Gum, Calcium Sulfate, Choline Chloride, Potassium Chloride, Magnesium Sulfate, Vitamin E Supplement, Zinc Oxide, Reduced Iron, Vitamin B12 Supplement, Sodium Selenite, Manganese Sulfate, Niacin Supplement, Calcium Pantothenate, Thiamine Mononitrate, Vitamin A Supplement, Copper Amino Acid Complex, Biotin, Riboflavin Supplement, Pyridoxine Hydrochloride, Potassium Iodide, Beta-Carotene, Folic Acid.

Guaranteed Analysis

Protein: 7%

Fat: 2%

Fiber: 2%

Moisture: 85%

Ash: 0%

Carb: 4%

Dry Matter Analysis

Protein: 46.67%

Fat: 13.33%

Fiber: 13.33%

Ash: 8%

Carb: 26.67%

Rich in species-appropriate animal protein
Plenty of moisture to support hydration
Free from artificial additives, fillers, and by-products

Contains added plant ingredients
No animal-based sources of added fat

Price Vs Overall Score Comparison

Wet Dog Food Frequently Asked Questions

1. Do dogs need wet food?

There isn’t a simple Yes or No answer to this question because there are numerous factors to consider. The most important thing is that you provide your dog with a nutritionally balanced diet appropriate for his life stage. Whether you choose wet dog food, dry food, or another food is up to you.

While you can certainly choose whatever type of diet you like, there are certain advantages to feeding your dog wet food. Wet dog food tends to be lower in carbohydrates than the average dry food. It also tends to be higher in protein and much higher in moisture. High carbohydrate intake has been associated with unhealthy weight gain in dogs, so wet food may be a better option than dry for overweight or obese dogs. Additionally, the higher water content is beneficial for your dog’s hydration.

Another potential benefit of wet food is that it comes in a wide variety of flavors and textures. If you have a picky eater, your dog may find a chunky wet food with gravy more palatable than a bowl of dry dog food. Wet food can also be a good option for older dogs and dogs with dental issues who have a hard time eating dry food.

If a canned food diet isn’t within your budget, you might consider adding a small amount to your dog’s dry food diet or feeding it every other day. Your dog can benefit from the added protein and moisture even if it isn’t his staple diet.

2. How much wet food should I feed my dog?

Feeding recommendations for dogs differ depending on the dog’s life stage and size. It only makes sense that large breeds will require more food than small breeds, but there’s more to consider than just the volume of food you offer. Different recipes have different calorie content, so the recommended feeding amount may not be the same between two dog food formulas.

As a general recommendation, you should feed your dog about 1 ounce of wet food per pound of bodyweight daily. Again, however, because calorie content varies from one recipe to another, it’s really best to follow the feeding recommendations on the product label. Choose a recipe appropriate for your dog’s life stage (puppy or adult dog) and feed according to your dog’s body weight.

If you’re feeding your dog a mixture of wet food and dry food, you may need to adjust the amount you’re feeding. Follow the feeding recommendations for each product, making alterations according to how much of each product you’re offering. To simplify things, consider feeding a 50/50 ratio of wet to dry food so you can just cut the feeding recommendation for each in half.

3. Is wet or dry food better for dogs?

There’s no simple answer to the question of wet dog food versus dry dog food. In many ways, it really comes down to a matter of preference for you as a dog owner.

Both wet dog food and dry dog food have a generous shelf-life as long as the containers remain unopened. Dry dog food generally lasts 12 to 18 months while canned food can last two years or more. There are differences, however, in how the products are preserved which may be worth considering. Wet dog food doesn’t require added preservatives because the canning process creates an airtight seal. Dry food, on the other hand, generally does require preservatives to achieve that 12-month shelf life.

Once a can of wet food is opened, it can only be left out for up to 4 hours and can be refrigerated for up to 5 days. Dry dog food can be left out most of the day with little risk to your dog.

Aside from the convenience factor, wet dog food generally tends to be more expensive than dry food, at least for higher-quality products. This is partially due to the fact that canned food often contains higher levels of animal protein with fewer fillers than dry food. The extrusion process through which dry dog food is made requires starches and other binders which are often plant-based.

Though wet dog food can be pricey, it comes with the benefit of providing your dog with added moisture to support his hydration. You can certainly add water or broth to your dog’s dry food, but you get to skip the extra step with wet food. Wet dog food also comes in a wide variety of textures from pate to chunks in gravy, so there are plenty of options to suit picky eaters.

All in all, it’s really your choice as a dog owner what kind of food you feed your dog. When making your decision, however, try to find a balance between what’s convenient and affordable for you and what’s nutritious and appealing for your dog.

4. How long can wet dog food sit out?

Wet dog food can last for months, even years at a time as long as it is unopened. Once the product has been opened and exposed to air, however, it’s best to use it within 24 hours. If your dog can’t finish the food in one or two meals, however, the leftover food can safely be refrigerated for 3 to 5 days.

Once you’ve opened a can of wet dog food and spooned it into your dog’s bowl, you can leave it out for up to 4 hours. Any unused canned food should immediately be refrigerated, ideally in an airtight container. If your dog doesn’t eat all the food within that time, it should be removed and discarded.

5. Does wet dog food need to be refrigerated?

After being opened, wet dog food needs to be refrigerated. Canned dog food is no different than food for human consumption in that it carries the potential for food-borne illness if not stored properly.

Unlike dry dog food, canned food can be made without the use of added preservatives because the canning process creates a protective air-tight seal. Once the seal is broken and the product is exposed to air, however, refrigeration is required to keep the product fresh. It’s generally best to use wet dog food without 24 hours of opening it, but it can safely be refrigerated for three to five days.

Again, the refrigeration rule only applies to opened cans of wet food. Unopened cans of wet dog food can be stored at room temperature in a cool, dry, dark location for up to 2 years.

The post 10 Best Wet Dog Foods appeared first on Pet Food Sherpa.

10 Best Freeze-Dried Cat Foods

Kate Barrington — Thu, 10 Feb 2022 02:16:09 +0000

1. Best Freeze-Dried Cat Food Formulas in 2024
2. Price Vs Overall Score Comparison
3. Why Should You Trust Us
4. Frequently Asked Questions

Freeze-dried food offers a shelf-stable convenience to fresh raw food. It’s packed with the protein your carnivorous cat needs and generally contains lower concentrations of carbohydrate than traditional dry food.

Because this food is freeze-dried to remove moisture, it generally doesn’t require the addition of artificial preservatives and it can last as long as two years unopened.

Though freeze-dried food provides a convenient alternative to raw food without compromising on quality, it doesn’t contain the moisture your cat needs for optimal hydration. We recommend rehydrating the product with water or nutrient-rich bone broth before feeding it to your cat.

Best Freeze-Dried Cat Food Formulas in 2024

Now that you’ve been introduced to the basics about freeze-dried cat food , take a look at some of the options we recommend.

Ziwi Peak Air-Dried Chicken Recipe Cat Food

80%

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Rating

Price 67%

Quality of Ingredients 90%

Customer Experience 64%

Nutrient Value 68%

Recall History 100%

Manufacturing Method 90%

Product info

Age Range:Adult Cost per day:$0.66

Company info

Company HQMt. Maunganui, New Zealand Parent companyZiwi Ltd

Overview

Though technically not a freeze-dried formula, this air-dried recipe from Ziwi Peak offers species-appropriate nutrition and shelf-stable convenience. Chicken, chicken organs, and New Zealand green mussels make up the primary ingredients, making this recipe rich in animal protein and very low in carbohydrates. It is designed to be fed as-is and may not rehydrate as well as freeze-dried food.

Ingredients

Chicken, Chicken Liver, Chicken Heart, New Zealand Green Mussel, Chicken Bone, Lecithin, Inulin from Chicory, Dried Kelp, Minerals (Dipotassium Phosphate, Magnesium Sulfate, Zinc Amino Acid Complex, Copper Amino Acid Complex, Iron Amino Acid Complex, Manganese Amino Acid Complex, Sodium Selenite), Salt, Preservative (Citric Acid, Mixed Tocopherols), Vitamins (Choline Chloride, Thiamine Mononitrate, Pyridoxine Hydrochloride, Folic Acid, Vitamin D3 Supplement), DL-Methionine, Taurine.

Guaranteed Analysis

Protein: 38%

Fat: 30%

Fiber: 2%

Moisture: 14%

Ash: 12%

Carb: 4%

Dry Matter Analysis

Protein: 44.19%

Fat: 34.88%

Fiber: 2.33%

Ash: 13.95%

Carb: 4.65%

Low carbohydrate content
To our knowledge, Ziwi has never had a product recall
Gently air-dried to preserve nutrition
Contains dried kelp as a natural source of essential nutrients
Green-lipped mussel is added as a source of glucosamine and chondroitin
Doesn’t contain fillers, by-products, or artificial additives
Rich in species-appropriate animal protein

Low in moisture
Contains a small amount of plant-based proteins
Doesn’t receive consistently positive customer reviews

Zeal Canada Salmon & Turkey Recipe Grain-Free Gently Air-Dried Cat Food

75%

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Rating

Price 47%

Quality of Ingredients 87%

Customer Experience 58%

Nutrient Value 59%

Recall History 100%

Manufacturing Method 90%

Product info

Age Range:Adult Cost per day:$0.99

Company info

Company HQBritish Columbia, Canada Parent companyCanadian Jerky Company Ltd.

Overview

Another air-dried formula, this salmon and turkey recipe from Zeal Canada offers the simplicity of dry cat food with the nutritional benefits of raw food. It features fresh salmon and turkey as the top two ingredients with turkey organs and krill meal for supplemental protein and essential nutrients. This recipe is designed to be fed as-is and has a jerky-like texture many cats find appealing.

Ingredients

Salmon, Turkey, Turkey Heart, Turkey Liver, Bamboo fiber, Sunflower lecithin, Krill meal, Parsley, Taurine, Vitamin A, Thiamine, Riboflavin, Niacin, Pantothenic acid, Pyridoxine, Vitamin B12, Vitamin D, Vitamin E, Calcium iodate, Zinc proteinate, Magnesium Sulphate, Manganese Proteinate, Copper proteinate, Potassium chloride, Rosemary extract.

Guaranteed Analysis

Protein: 34%

Fat: 22%

Fiber: 4%

Moisture: 14%

Ash: 8%

Carb: 18%

Dry Matter Analysis

Protein: 39.53%

Fat: 25.58%

Fiber: 4.65%

Ash: 9.3%

Carb: 20.93%

To our knowledge, Zeal Canada has never had a product recall
Gently air-dried to preserve nutrition
Supplemented with chelated minerals for optimal nutrient absorption
Doesn’t contain fillers, by-products, or artificial additives
Rich in species-appropriate animal protein

Low protein content
Low in moisture
Contains a small amount of plant-based proteins
Some cats may be allergic to fish

The New Zealand Natural Pet Food Co. Meow Wild Venison Grain-Free Freeze-Dried Cat Food

75%

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Rating

Price 25%

Quality of Ingredients 94%

Customer Experience 61%

Nutrient Value 100%

Recall History 100%

Manufacturing Method 0%

Product info

Age Range:Adult Cost per day:$2.64

Company info

Company HQPauanui Beach, New Zealand Parent companyThe New Zealand Natural Pet Food Co.

Overview

Made with wild venison, this freeze-dried cat food is a great option for cats with food allergies and sensitivities. Not only is venison a novel protein for most cats, but this recipe contains a limited list of digestible animal-based ingredients. While olive oil is the primary source of added fat, hoki oil provides an animal source of essential fatty acids and omega-3s.

Ingredients

Wild Venison , Lamb , Lamb Green Tripe , Lamb Heart , Lamb Liver , Lamb Kidney , Ground Lamb Bone , Kelp , Green Lipped Mussels , Manuka Honey , Rosemary , Organic Virgin Coconut Oil , Hoki Oil , Taurine , Choline Chloride , Zinc Amino Acid Complex , Iron Amino Acid Complex , Copper Amino Acid Complex , Vitamin B1 (Thiamine Mononitrate) , Manganese Amino Acid Complex , Salt

Guaranteed Analysis

Protein: 60%

Fat: 20%

Fiber: 2%

Moisture: 5%

Ash: 0%

Carb: 13%

Dry Matter Analysis

Protein: 63.16%

Fat: 21.05%

Fiber: 2.11%

Ash: 8%

Carb: 13.68%

Low carbohydrate content
To our knowledge, The New Zealand Natural Pet Food Co. has never had a product recall
Freeze-dried food retains the nutritional value of raw meat
Contains kelp as a natural source of essential nutrients
Doesn’t contain fillers, by-products, or artificial additives
Rich in species-appropriate animal protein
A good source of omega-3 fatty acids

Expensive
Low in moisture
Contains a small amount of plant-based proteins
Freeze dried cat food requires rehydration, which is time-consuming

Feline Natural Chicken & Lamb Feast Grain-Free Freeze-Dried Cat Food

74%

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Rating

Price 38%

Quality of Ingredients 95%

Customer Experience 79%

Nutrient Value 84%

Recall History 100%

Manufacturing Method 0%

Product info

Age Range:Adult Cost per day:$1.71

Company info

Company HQNew Zealand Parent companyK9 Natural

Overview

Formulated with 99% chicken, lamb, and organs, this freeze-dried recipe provides complete and balanced nutrition for your cat. It is completely free from grains, additives, and other fillers. In fact, it only contains one added plant ingredient, flaxseed flakes. Overall, it is a protein-rich freeze-dried formula relatively low in carbohydrates.

Ingredients

Chicken, Lamb Heart, Lamb Kidney, Lamb Liver, Lamb Blood, Flaxseed Flakes, New Zealand Green Mussel, Dried Kelp, Taurine, Vitamin E Supplement, Magnesium Oxide, Zinc Proteinate, Copper Proteinate, Manganese Proteinate, Thiamine Mononitrate, Vitamin D3 Supplement, Folic Acid.

Guaranteed Analysis

Protein: 48%

Fat: 31%

Fiber: 1%

Moisture: 8%

Ash: 0%

Carb: 12%

Dry Matter Analysis

Protein: 52.17%

Fat: 33.7%

Fiber: 1.09%

Ash: 8%

Carb: 13.04%

Low carbohydrate content
To our knowledge, Feline Natural has never had a product recall
Freeze-dried food retains the nutritional value of raw meat
Supplemented with chelated minerals for optimal nutrient absorption
Contains dried kelp as a natural source of essential nutrients
Green-lipped mussel is added as a source of glucosamine and chondroitin
Doesn’t contain fillers, by-products, or artificial additives
Rich in species-appropriate animal protein

Low in moisture
Contains a small amount of plant-based proteins
Freeze dried cat food requires rehydration, which is time-consuming

BIXBI Rawbble Beef Recipe Grain-Free Freeze-Dried Dog Food

72%

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Rating

Price 60%

Size Variety 100%

Quality of Ingredients 90%

Customer Experience 76%

Nutrient Value 88%

Recall History 46%

Manufacturing Method 0%

Product info

Age Range:Adult Cost per day:$1.02

Company info

Company HQBoulder, Colorado Parent companyBoulder Organics LLC

Overview

This freeze-dried formula is made with 97% pasture-fed beef, organs, and bone. It is grain-free and gluten-free in addition to being free from added hormones and antibiotics. Pumpkin and coconut oil are the only plant ingredients, making this a fairly species-appropriate choice that is low in carbohydrates.

Ingredients

Beef, Beef Liver, Beef Kidney, Beef Bone, Pumpkin, Coconut Oil, Salmon Oil, Selenium Yeast, Vitamin E Supplement, Vitamin A Supplement, Niacin, d-Calcium Pantothenate, Thiamine Mononitrate, Riboflavin Supplement, Pyridoxine Hydrochloride, Folic Acid, Vitamin B12 Supplement, Vitamin D3 Supplement, Mixed Tocopherols (a preservative), Rosemary Extract.

Guaranteed Analysis

Protein: 50%

Fat: 34%

Fiber: 4%

Moisture: 7%

Ash: 0%

Carb: 5%

Dry Matter Analysis

Protein: 53.76%

Fat: 36.56%

Fiber: 4.3%

Ash: 8%

Carb: 5.38%

Low carbohydrate content
Freeze-dried food retains the nutritional value of raw meat
Doesn’t contain fillers, by-products, or artificial additives
Rich in species-appropriate animal protein
A good source of omega-3 fatty acids

Low in moisture
Contains a small amount of plant-based proteins
Freeze dried dog food requires rehydration, which is time-consuming
Some dogs may be allergic to fish

Nulo FreeStyle Chicken & Salmon Recipe Freeze-Dried Raw Cat Food

72%

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Rating

Price 39%

Size Variety 83%

Quality of Ingredients 89%

Customer Experience 72%

Nutrient Value 77%

Recall History 100%

Manufacturing Method 0%

Product info

Age Range:Adult Cost per day:$1.69

Company info

Company HQAustin, Texas Parent companyNulo Pet Food

Overview

Featuring chicken and salmon as the primary ingredients, this freeze-dried formula is packed with species-appropriate animal protein. Chicken necks provide a nutritious source of ground bone with chicken liver and chicken hearts to follow. While the primary source of added fat is plant-based (ground flaxseed), this recipe also contains salmon oil as a rich source of animal-based omega-3s.

Ingredients

Chicken, Salmon, Chicken Necks, Chicken Liver, Chicken Hearts, Ground Flaxseed, Spinach, Salmon Oil, Cranberries, Coconut Oil, Inulin, Dried Kelp, Potassium Chloride, Salt, Dried Bacillus coagulans Fermentation Product, Taurine, Zinc Proteinate, Iron Proteinate, Vitamin E Supplement, Thiamine Mononitrate, Pyriodoxine Hydrochloride, Vitamin A Supplement, Copper Proteinate, Manganese Proteinate, Mixed Tocopherols (as preservative), Vitamin D3 Supplement.

Guaranteed Analysis

Protein: 46%

Fat: 23%

Fiber: 2%

Moisture: 5%

Ash: 0%

Carb: 24%

Dry Matter Analysis

Protein: 48.42%

Fat: 24.21%

Fiber: 2.11%

Ash: 8%

Carb: 25.26%

To our knowledge, Nulo has never had a product recall
Freeze-dried food retains the nutritional value of raw meat
Supplemented with chelated minerals for optimal nutrient absorption
Contains health promoting ground flaxseed for fiber
Contains dried kelp as a natural source of essential nutrients
Doesn’t contain fillers, by-products, or artificial additives
Rich in species-appropriate animal protein
A good source of omega-3 fatty acids

High in carbohydrates
Low in moisture
Contains a small amount of plant-based proteins
Freeze dried cat food requires rehydration, which is time-consuming
Some cats may be allergic to fish

Instinct Freeze-Dried Raw Meals Grain-Free Cage-Free Chicken Recipe Cat Food

68%

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Rating

Price 76%

Size Variety 83%

Quality of Ingredients 73%

Customer Experience 86%

Nutrient Value 61%

Recall History 100%

Manufacturing Method 0%

Product info

Age Range:Adult Cost per day:$1.05

Company info

Company HQLincoln, Nebraska Parent companyM.I. Industries

Overview

This freeze-dried formula from Instinct claims to contain three times more real chicken and organs than kibble. Cage-free chicken (including ground chicken bone) is the first ingredient, followed by chicken liver and chicken heart. Salmon oil provides a rich, animal-based source of omega-3s with small amounts of ground flaxseed, fruits, and veggies to provide supplemental nutrition.

Ingredients

Chicken (including Ground Chicken Bone), Chicken Liver, Chicken Heart, Montmorillonite Clay, Ground Flaxseed, Salmon Oil, Carrots, Apples, Butternut Squash, Vitamins (Vitamin E Supplement, Thiamine Mononitrate, Vitamin D3 Supplement), Potassium Chloride, Tricalcium Phosphate, Choline Chloride, Taurine, Yeast Culture, Salt, Minerals (Zinc Proteinate, Copper Proteinate, Manganese Proteinate, Calcium Iodate), DL-Methionine, Mixed Tocopherols (for freshness), Blueberries, Spinach, Rosemary Extract.

Guaranteed Analysis

Protein: 38%

Fat: 34%

Fiber: 3%

Moisture: 6%

Ash: 0%

Carb: 19%

Dry Matter Analysis

Protein: 40.43%

Fat: 36.17%

Fiber: 3.19%

Ash: 8%

Carb: 20.21%

To our knowledge, Instinct has never had a product recall
Freeze-dried food retains the nutritional value of raw meat
Supplemented with chelated minerals for optimal nutrient absorption
Contains health promoting ground flaxseed for fiber
Doesn’t contain fillers, by-products, or artificial additives
Rich in species-appropriate animal protein
Affordable
A good source of omega-3 fatty acids

Low protein content
Low in moisture
Contains a small amount of plant-based proteins
Freeze dried cat food requires rehydration, which is time-consuming
Some cats may be allergic to fish

Stella & Chewy's Chick Chick Chicken Dinner Morsels Freeze-Dried Raw Cat Food

67%

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Rating

Price 54%

Size Variety 100%

Quality of Ingredients 89%

Customer Experience 82%

Nutrient Value 75%

Recall History 27%

Manufacturing Method 0%

Product info

Age Range:Adult Cost per day:$1.42

Company info

Company HQMilwaukee, Wisconsin Parent companyStella and Chewy’s LLC

Overview

Freeze-dried in small morsels, this cat food from Stella & Chewy’s can be fed as-is or rehydrated with warm water. It features cage-free chicken as the primary ingredient, including ground bone, chicken liver, and chicken gizzard. You’ll also find probiotics in this recipe to support your cat’s digestion.

Ingredients

Chicken (Ground With Bone), Chicken Liver, Chicken Gizzard, Pumpkin Seed, Potassium Chloride, Sodium Phosphate, Choline Chloride, Fenugreek Seed, Dried Pediococcus Acidilactici Fermentation Product, Dried Lactobacillus Acidophilus Fermentation Product, Dried Bifidobacterium Longum Fermentation Product, Dried Bacillus Coagulans Fermentation Product, Taurine, Tocopherols (Preservative), Dandelion, Dried Kelp, Zinc Proteinate, Iron Proteinate, Vitamin A Supplement, Vitamin E Supplement, Niacin Supplement, Copper Proteinate, Riboflavin Supplement, Sodium Selenite, D-Calcium Pantothenate, Biotin, Manganese Proteinate, Thiamine Mononitrate, Pyridoxine Hydrochloride, Vitamin D3 Supplement, Folic Acid, Vitamin B12 Supplement.

Guaranteed Analysis

Protein: 45%

Fat: 25%

Fiber: 5%

Moisture: 5%

Ash: 0%

Carb: 20%

Dry Matter Analysis

Protein: 47.37%

Fat: 26.32%

Fiber: 5.26%

Ash: 8%

Carb: 21.05%

Freeze-dried food retains the nutritional value of raw meat
Supplemented with chelated minerals for optimal nutrient absorption
Contains dried kelp as a natural source of essential nutrients
Doesn’t contain fillers, by-products, or artificial additives
Rich in species-appropriate animal protein

High in carbohydrates
Low in moisture
Contains a small amount of plant-based proteins
Freeze dried cat food requires rehydration, which is time-consuming
The brand has had multiple recalls over recent years

Primal Chicken & Salmon Formula Nuggets Grain-Free Raw Freeze-Dried Cat Food

65%

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Rating

Price 64%

Size Variety 100%

Quality of Ingredients 69%

Customer Experience 77%

Nutrient Value 87%

Recall History 25%

Manufacturing Method 0%

Product info

Age Range:Adult Cost per day:$1.27

Company info

Company HQFairfield, California Parent companyPrimal Pet Foods Inc.

Overview

One of Primal’s many freeze-dried recipes, this formula contains 90% chicken, salmon, organs, and bone. It’s rich in species-appropriate animal protein, but it still contains a variety of unnecessary plant ingredients. Even so, it is much lower in carbohydrates than the average dry cat food and it can be rehydrated to support your cat’s hydration.

Ingredients

Chicken (with ground bone), Chicken Livers, Salmon, Organic Pumpkin Seeds, Organic Sunflower Seeds, Organic Cranberries, Organic Blueberries, Organic Kale, Organic Squash, Organic Carrots, Organic Apples, Organic Broccoli, Organic Rosemary Extract, Organic Parsley, Organic Quinoa, Organic Apple Cider Vinegar, Fish Oil, Montmorillonite Clay, Organic Coconut Oil, Cod Liver Oil, Taurine, Vitamin E Supplement, Organic Ground Alfalfa, Dried Organic Kelp.

Guaranteed Analysis

Protein: 49%

Fat: 26%

Fiber: 2%

Moisture: 8%

Ash: 0%

Carb: 15%

Dry Matter Analysis

Protein: 53.26%

Fat: 28.26%

Fiber: 2.17%

Ash: 8%

Carb: 16.3%

Low carbohydrate content
Freeze-dried food retains the nutritional value of raw meat
Contains kelp as a natural source of essential nutrients
Doesn’t contain fillers, by-products, or artificial additives
Rich in species-appropriate animal protein
A good source of omega-3 fatty acids

Low in moisture
Contains a small amount of plant-based proteins
Freeze dried cat food requires rehydration, which is time-consuming
The brand has had multiple recalls over recent years
Some cats may be allergic to fish

Vital Essentials Pork Dinner Patties Freeze-Dried Raw Cat Food

52%

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Rating

Price 79%

Size Variety 64%

Quality of Ingredients 100%

Customer Experience 58%

Nutrient Value 25%

Recall History 25%

Manufacturing Method 0%

Product info

Age Range:Adult Cost per day:$0.94

Company info

Company HQGreen Bay, Wisconsin Parent companyCarnivore Meat Company

Overview

Simple to serve, these Vital Essentials freeze-dried pork dinner patties are packed with animal protein. In addition to fresh pork, this recipe features pork liver and pork spleen. Aside from herring oil as an animal-based source of omega-3 fatty acids, this recipe contains very few ingredients. Overall, it’s a species-appropriate choice that is rich in protein with no added carbohydrates.

Ingredients

Pork, Pork Liver, Pork Spleen, Herring Oil, Mixed Tocopherols (Preservative), Vitamin E Supplement, Iron Amino Acid Complex, Zinc Amino Acid Complex, Manganese Amino Acid Complex, Copper Amino Acid Complex

Guaranteed Analysis

Protein: 7%

Fat: 40%

Fiber: 45%

Moisture: 8%

Ash: 0%

Carb: 0%

Dry Matter Analysis

Protein: 7.61%

Fat: 43.48%

Fiber: 48.91%

Ash: 8%

Carb: 0%

Low carbohydrate content
Freeze-dried food retains the nutritional value of raw meat
Doesn’t contain fillers, by-products, or artificial additives
Rich in species-appropriate animal protein
Affordable

Low protein content
Low in moisture
Contains a small amount of plant-based proteins
Freeze dried cat food requires rehydration, which is time-consuming
For supplemental feeding only: this food is not nutritionally complete and balanced according to AAFCO guidelines
The brand has had multiple recalls over recent years
Some cats may be allergic to fish

Price Vs Overall Score Comparison

Why Should You Trust Us

As dog parents ourselves, we understand how hard it is to choose the right wet dog food with so many recipes available in 2024. So how do you navigate past marketing claims to get real facts?

That’s where we come in. With over 2773 recipe reviews, Pet Food Sherpa is the largest database for cat food recipe reviews overseen by a vet nutrition specialist.

Our team has analyzed over 200 Freeze-Dried Cat Foods and selected the 10 best recipes, we then used our pet food algorithm to determine the scores for each recipe.

You should keep in mind that no single Freeze-Dried food is right for all cats. Instead, use our list as a research tool to help you make a better-informed decision on your dog’s diet.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. What is freeze-dried cat food?

Freeze-dried cat food is made through a process that involves freezing the food and removing moisture. The food is frozen at very low temperatures then put into a vacuum which removes the frozen ice crystals. The result is a low-moisture, shelf-stable cat food that is then sealed in air-tight packaging.

In most cases, freeze-dried cat food is made with raw ingredients. Because the ingredients aren’t cooked before being freeze-dried, the end product is still technically raw. That being said, you generally don’t need to refrigerate the product as long as you keep it in the original resealable packaging in a cool, dry location. It’s best to use freeze-dried cat food within 30 days of opening.

2. Is freeze-dried raw food good for cats?

Freeze-dried cat food is a very nutritious option for cats. In fact, it is nutritionally equivalent to raw food. The only difference is that the moisture has been removed to make the product shelf-stable. As is true with any cat food, however, the quality depends on the ingredients and formulation.

Most freeze-dried cat foods offer higher nutritional quality than the average kibble, but it’s still important to review the ingredients list and guaranteed analysis. A freeze-dried cat food made primarily with animal ingredients like meat, organs, and ground bone will be much better for your cat than a freeze-dried food heavy in plant ingredients.

It’s also worth noting that while freeze-dried cat food can be protein-rich and species-appropriate in terms of nutritional composition, it doesn’t contain the moisture your cat needs for hydration. For this reason, it’s best to rehydrate freeze-dried cat food before feeding it to your cat.

3. How do I rehydrate freeze-dried cat food?

Freeze-dried cat food has been processed to remove all the moisture, so it contains about as much moisture as kibble – around 10%, sometimes less. Moisture is an essential part of a healthy diet for cats, so it’s recommended that you rehydrate freeze-dried cat food before feeding. Rehydrating the food also improves the texture which may make it more appealing to picky cats.

You can rehydrate freeze-dried cat food with water or broth. Most commercial freeze-dried cat foods will provide instructions for rehydrating the food, but you generally just add your cat’s portion to his bowl and add liquid. In most cases, an equal proportion of food to water works well.

It usually takes 15 to 20 minutes for freeze-dried cat food to rehydrate, though the timing may vary by recipe. Again, refer to the feeding instructions on the package. Once the food has been rehydrated it should be treated like wet cat food and not left out for more than 4 hours.

4. Is freeze-dried raw cat food safe?

Whether fresh or freeze-dried, there are inherent risks to feeding your cat a raw diet. Not only is there potential for foodborne pathogens affecting your cat, but you and others in your household could be exposed to them as well. Fortunately, basic safe food handling practices are generally enough to reduce the risk. Just be sure to wash your hands after handling raw food as well as any utensils you use.

The primary concern with freeze-dried raw cat food is bacterial contamination. E. coli, listeria, and salmonella are the most common culprits. The freeze-drying process helps decrease the number of pathogens in the raw ingredients, but some may survive freeze-drying. Commercial freeze-dried foods may have lower rates of contamination than unprocessed raw foods.

5. Can freeze-dried food cause problems for cats?

Freeze-dried cat food is generally a very nutritious choice for cats, especially when it is filled with animal-based ingredients like meat, organ, and raw bone. Aside from the potential for bacterial contamination, however, there are a few concerns. First and foremost, the lack of moisture.

The process of freeze drying removes the moisture from the raw ingredients in order to make the product shelf-stable. Cats require moisture in their diet for proper hydration and, because they don’t tend to drink a lot of water on their own, it’s important to include it in your cat’s diet. The best option is to rehydrate your cat’s freeze-dried food before feeding and provide plenty of fresh water.

Another concern with freeze-dried cat food is the potential for nutritional deficiencies. This is more common with homemade diets, however. As long as you’re feeding your cat a commercial freeze-dried food formulated by a veterinarian or veterinary nutritionist, you shouldn’t have to worry.

The post 10 Best Freeze-Dried Cat Foods appeared first on Pet Food Sherpa.

The 10 Best Kitten Foods

Kate Barrington — Thu, 10 Feb 2022 02:11:58 +0000

1. Best Kitten Food Formulas in 2024
2. Price Vs Overall Score Comparison
3. Why Should You Trust Us
4. Frequently Asked Questions

A healthy diet is the best way to give your kitten a good start in life. The best kitten food is packed with species-appropriate animal protein to help him grow strong muscles.

Healthy fats provide a concentrated source of calories and support the development of cell membranes. They also help transport nutrients throughout the body.

Kitten food contains higher concentrations of fat and protein than adult food because your kitten needs more of these nutrients to fuel his growth and development. A healthy kitten food contains limited carbohydrate content and is free from artificial additives.

Best Kitten Food Formulas in 2024

Now that you’ve been introduced to the basics about kitten food, take a look at some of the options we recommend below.

Instinct Kitten Grain-Free Pate Real Chicken Recipe Natural Wet Canned Cat Food

81%

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Rating

Price 55%

Size Variety 100%

Quality of Ingredients 82%

Customer Experience 65%

Nutrient Value 89%

Recall History 100%

Manufacturing Method 50%

Product info

Age Range:Kitten Cost per day:$0.96

Company info

Company HQLincoln, Nebraska Parent companyM.I. Industries

Overview

With its delicious chicken flavor and smooth pate texture, this canned kitten food is a highly palatable product. This recipe features fresh chicken as the primary ingredient with supplemental protein and essential nutrients from beef liver. Salmon provides a rich source of DHA and omega-3 fatty acids while chicken broth delivers moisture to support your kitten’s hydration and add flavor.

Ingredients

Chicken, Beef Liver, Chicken Broth, Salmon (Source of DHA), Eggs, Montmorillonite Clay, Dried Kelp, Taurine, Potassium Chloride, Salt, Minerals (Iron Proteinate, Zinc Proteinate, Copper Proteinate, Manganese Proteinate, Sodium Selenite, Potassium Iodide), Choline Chloride, Vitamins (Vitamin E Supplement, Thiamine Mononitrate, Niacin Supplement, d-Calcium Pantothenate, Pyridoxine Hydrochloride, Riboflavin, Supplement, Vitamin A Supplement, Biotin, Vitamin D3, Supplement, Vitamin B12 Supplement, Folic Acid), L-Ascorbyl-2-Polyphosphate, Artichokes, Cranberries, Pumpkin, Tomato, Blueberries, Broccoli, Cabbage, Kale, Parsley

Guaranteed Analysis

Protein: 12%

Fat: 6%

Fiber: 1%

Moisture: 78%

Ash: 0%

Carb: 3%

Dry Matter Analysis

Protein: 54.55%

Fat: 27.27%

Fiber: 4.55%

Ash: 8%

Carb: 13.64%

High in carbohydrates
High moisture content
To our knowledge, Instinct has never had a product recall
Supplemented with chelated minerals for optimal nutrient absorption
Contains dried kelp as a natural source of essential nutrients
Doesn’t contain fillers, by-products, or artificial additives
Rich in species-appropriate animal protein
Free of plant-based thickeners
Has all the nutrients your kitten or mother cat needs

Contains a small amount of plant-based proteins
Doesn’t receive consistently positive customer reviews
Some cats may be allergic to fish

Nulo Freestyle Turkey & Chicken Recipe Grain-Free Canned Cat & Kitten Food

79%

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Rating

Price 84%

Quality of Ingredients 82%

Customer Experience 76%

Nutrient Value 80%

Recall History 100%

Manufacturing Method 50%

Product info

Age Range:Adult Cost per day:$0.59

Company info

Company HQAustin, Texas Parent companyNulo Pet Food

Overview

Because it’s formulated for adult cats and kittens, this Nulo Freestyle recipe could save you the hassle of having to transition your kitten onto a different adult diet. It’s packed with protein from fresh turkey and chicken, supplemented with additional protein from turkey liver and tuna. Menhaden fish oil is a rich source of omega-3 fatty acids and DHA while pumpkin provides protein to support your kitten’s digestion.

Ingredients

Turkey, Chicken, Turkey Liver, Turkey Broth, Tuna, Natural Flavor, Guar Gum, Potassium Chloride, Agar Agar, Choline Chloride, Taurine, Cranberries, Pumpkin, Menhaden Fish Oil (Preserved With Mixed Tocopherols), Tomato, Dried Kelp, Yucca Schidigera Extract, Salt, Iron Proteinate, Sodium Carbonate, Zinc Proteinate, Thiamine Mononitrate, Vitamin E Supplement, Magnesium Sulfate, Copper Proteinate, Manganese Proteinate, Sodium Selenite, Niacin Supplement, d-Calcium Pantothenate, Pyridoxine Hydrochloride, Riboflavin Supplement, Vitamin A Supplement, Biotin, Potassium Iodide, Vitamin D3 Supplement, Vitamin B12 Supplement, Folic Acid, Rosemary Extract.

Guaranteed Analysis

Protein: 11%

Fat: 6.5%

Fiber: 0.75%

Moisture: 78%

Ash: 0%

Carb: 3.75%

Dry Matter Analysis

Protein: 50%

Fat: 29.55%

Fiber: 3.41%

Ash: 8%

Carb: 17.05%

High moisture content
To our knowledge, Nulo has never had a product recall
Supplemented with chelated minerals for optimal nutrient absorption
Contains dried kelp as a natural source of essential nutrients
Doesn’t contain fillers, by-products, or artificial additives
Rich in species-appropriate animal protein
Affordable
A good source of omega-3 fatty acids

Low protein content
High in carbohydrates
Contains a small amount of plant-based proteins
Some cats may be allergic to fish

Nulo Freestyle Chicken & Cod Recipe Grain-Free Dry Cat & Kitten Food

77%

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Rating

Price 69%

Size Variety 100%

Quality of Ingredients 77%

Customer Experience 79%

Nutrient Value 69%

Recall History 100%

Manufacturing Method 40%

Product info

Age Range:Adult Cost per day:$0.17

Company info

Company HQAustin, Texas Parent companyNulo Pet Food

Overview

Get your kitten off to a good start with this grain-free dry food from Nulo. This recipe features four animal-based proteins as the top ingredients: chicken, chicken meal, turkey meal, and cod. Chicken fat is a nutrient-rich source of energy and essential fatty acids, helping support your kitten’s growth and development.

Ingredients

Deboned Chicken, Chicken Meal, Turkey Meal, Deboned Cod, Whole Peas, Lentils, Chicken Fat (Preserved with Mixed Tocopherols & Citric Acid), Natural Flavor, Pea Fiber, Ground Flaxseed, Dried Chicory Root, Dried Kelp, Dried Sweet Potato, Dried Cranberries, Calcium Carbonate, Dl-Methionine, Taurine, Zinc Proteinate, Choline Chloride, Vitamin E Supplement, L-Ascorbyl-2-Polyphosphate (Source of Vitamin C), Iron Proteinate, Niacin Supplement, Copper Proteinate, Thiamine Mononitrate, Calcium Pantothenate, Vitamin A Supplement, Manganese Proteinate, Pyridoxidine Hydrochloride, Sodium Selenite, Riboflavin Supplement, Dried Bacillus Coagulans Fermentation Product, Yucca Schidigera Extract, Vitamin B12 Supplement, Calcium Iodate, Folic Acid, Rosemary Extract.

Guaranteed Analysis

Protein: 40%

Fat: 20%

Fiber: 4%

Moisture: 10%

Ash: 0%

Carb: 26%

Dry Matter Analysis

Protein: 44.44%

Fat: 22.22%

Fiber: 4.44%

Ash: 8%

Carb: 28.89%

Low carbohydrate content
To our knowledge, Nulo has never had a product recall
Supplemented with chelated minerals for optimal nutrient absorption
Contains health promoting ground flaxseed for fiber
Contains dried kelp as a natural source of essential nutrients
Doesn’t contain fillers, by-products, or artificial additives
Rich in species-appropriate animal protein

Low in moisture
Contains a small amount of plant-based proteins
Some cats may be allergic to fish

Instinct Original Kitten Grain-Free Recipe with Real Chicken Freeze-Dried Raw Coated Dry Cat Food

76%

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Rating

Price 42%

Size Variety 100%

Quality of Ingredients 76%

Customer Experience 84%

Nutrient Value 73%

Recall History 100%

Manufacturing Method 40%

Product info

Age Range:Kitten Cost per day:$0.20

Company info

Company HQLincoln, Nebraska Parent companyM.I. Industries

Overview

Crunchy kibbles packed with animal protein, this dry food formula is full of chicken flavor. This recipe includes 81% real animal ingredients with wholesome fruits and veggies to ensure nutritional balance. It contains guaranteed levels of natural probiotics to support your kitten’s digestion while omega oils provide DHA and skin support.

Ingredients

Chicken, Turkey Meal, Menhaden Fish Meal, Peas, Chicken Fat (preserved with Mixed Tocopherols and Citric Acid), Egg Product, Chicken Meal, White Fish Meal (Pacific Whiting, Pacific Sole, Pacific Rockfish), Tapioca, Natural Flavor, Lamb Meal, Dried Tomato Pomace, Carrots, Apples, Cranberries, Montmorillonite Clay, Vitamins (Vitamin E Supplement, L-Ascorbyl-2-Polyphosphate, Niacin Supplement, Thiamine Mononitrate, d-Calcium Pantothenate, Vitamin A Supplement, Riboflavin Supplement, Pyridoxine Hydrochloride, Vitamin B12 Supplement, Folic Acid, Vitamin D3 Supplement, Biotin), Choline Chloride, Minerals (Zinc Proteinate, Iron Proteinate, Copper Proteinate, Manganese Proteinate, Sodium Selenite, Ethylenediamine Dihydriodide), Potassium Chloride, Salt, Taurine, Freeze Dried Chicken, Freeze Dried Chicken Liver, Pumpkinseeds, Freeze Dried Chicken Heart, Dried Bacillus coagulans Fermentation Product, Rosemary Extract.

Guaranteed Analysis

Protein: 42.5%

Fat: 22.5%

Fiber: 3%

Moisture: 9%

Ash: 0%

Carb: 23%

Dry Matter Analysis

Protein: 46.7%

Fat: 24.73%

Fiber: 3.3%

Ash: 8%

Carb: 25.27%

To our knowledge, Instinct has never had a product recall
Freeze-dried food retains the nutritional value of raw meat
Supplemented with chelated minerals for optimal nutrient absorption
Doesn’t contain fillers, by-products, or artificial additives
Rich in species-appropriate animal protein
Has all the nutrients your kitten or mother cat needs

Not a Calorie-dense recipe
Low in moisture
Contains a small amount of plant-based proteins
Freeze dried cat food requires rehydration, which is time-consuming
Some cats may be allergic to fish

Wellness CORE Natural Grain Free Turkey & Chicken Liver Pate Canned Kitten Food

74%

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Rating

Price 43%

Size Variety 100%

Quality of Ingredients 77%

Customer Experience 82%

Nutrient Value 89%

Recall History 35%

Manufacturing Method 50%

Product info

Age Range:Kitten Cost per day:$1.16

Company info

Company HQTewksbury, Massachusetts Parent companyWellPet LLC

Overview

Formulated with wholesome, natural ingredients, this canned food formula is just what your kitten needs for healthy growth and development. This Wellness recipe is protein-focused, featuring fresh turkey and chicken liver as the primary ingredients. Chicken, chicken meal, and herring provide supplemental protein with menhaden fish oil as a rich source of omega-3 fatty acids. Overall, this recipe is highly digestible and very low in carbohydrates.

Ingredients

Turkey, Chicken Liver, Turkey Broth, Chicken, Chicken Meal, Herring, Natural Flavor, Cranberries, Menhaden Fish Oil (preserved with Mixed Tocopherols), Guar Gum, Tricalcium Phosphate, Ground Flaxseed, Potassium Chloride, Choline Chloride, Taurine, Cassia Gum, Xanthan Gum, Dried Kelp, Chicory Root Extract, Yucca Schidigera Extract, Alfalfa Meal, Salt, Magnesium Sulfate, Iron Proteinate, Zinc Proteinate, Thiamine Mononitrate, Vitamin E Supplement, Copper Proteinate, Manganese Proteinate, Sodium Selenite, Niacin, d-Calcium Pantothenate, Pyridoxine Hydrochloride, Riboflavin Supplement, Vitamin A Supplement, Biotin, Potassium Iodide, Vitamin D3 Supplement, Vitamin B12 Supplement, Folic Acid, Rosemary Extract.

Guaranteed Analysis

Protein: 12%

Fat: 7.5%

Fiber: 1%

Moisture: 78%

Ash: 0%

Carb: 1.5%

Dry Matter Analysis

Protein: 54.55%

Fat: 34.09%

Fiber: 4.55%

Ash: 8%

Carb: 6.82%

High moisture content
Supplemented with chelated minerals for optimal nutrient absorption
Contains health promoting ground flaxseed for fiber
Contains dried kelp as a natural source of essential nutrients
Doesn’t contain fillers, by-products, or artificial additives
Rich in species-appropriate animal protein
A good source of omega-3 fatty acids
Has all the nutrients your kitten or mother cat needs

Not a Calorie-dense recipe
Contains a small amount of plant-based proteins
The brand has had multiple recalls over recent years
Some cats may be allergic to fish

Fancy Feast Kitten Tender Turkey Feast Canned Cat Food

72%

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Rating

Price 85%

Quality of Ingredients 52%

Customer Experience 87%

Nutrient Value 80%

Recall History 100%

Manufacturing Method 50%

Product info

Age Range:Kitten Cost per day:$0.56

Company info

Company HQSt. Louis, Missouri Parent companyNestlé Purina Petcare Co.

Overview

If affordability is a concern, this Fancy Feast formula might be a good choice. Fresh turkey is the primary ingredient and a rich source of animal-based protein. This recipe also contains supplemental protein sources from fish and eggs. Vitamin and mineral supplements help to ensure complete and balanced nutrition, making sure your kitten has everything he needs to grow up healthy and strong.

Ingredients

Turkey, Liver, Meat By-Products, Poultry Broth, Milk, Fish, Egg Product, Artificial and Natural Flavors, Tricalcium Phosphate, Guar Gum, Minerals [Potassium Chloride, Magnesium Sulfate, Zinc Sulfate, Ferrous Sulfate, Copper Sulfate, Manganese Sulfate, Potassium Iodide], Added Color, Salt, Vitamins [Vitamin E Supplement, Thiamine Mononitrate (Vitamin B-1), Niacin (Vitamin B-3), Calcium Pantothenate (Vitamin B-5), Vitamin A Supplement, Menadione Sodium Bisulfite Complex (Vitamin K), Pyridoxine Hydrochloride (Vitamin B-6), Riboflavin Supplement (Vitamin B-2), Vitamin B-12 Supplement, Biotin (Vitamin B-7), Folic Acid (Vitamin B-9), Vitamin D-3 Supplement], Taurine. C-6621.

Guaranteed Analysis

Protein: 11%

Fat: 5%

Fiber: 1.5%

Moisture: 78%

Ash: 3.5%

Carb: 1%

Dry Matter Analysis

Protein: 50%

Fat: 22.73%

Fiber: 6.82%

Ash: 15.91%

Carb: 4.55%

High moisture content
To our knowledge, Fancy Feast has never had a product recall
Rich in species-appropriate animal protein
Affordable
Has all the nutrients your kitten or mother cat needs

Not a Calorie-dense recipe
Contains a small amount of plant-based proteins
Contains artificial food dyes
Contains vaguely-named Meat products
Some cats may be allergic to fish

Whole Earth Farms Grain-Free Real Healthy Kitten Recipe Canned Cat Food

72%

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Rating

Price 74%

Size Variety 73%

Quality of Ingredients 74%

Customer Experience 81%

Nutrient Value 62%

Recall History 100%

Manufacturing Method 50%

Product info

Age Range:Kitten Cost per day:$0.76

Company info

Company HQAmarillo, Texas Parent companyMerrick Pet Care

Overview

Give your kitten goodness from the earth with this Whole Earth Farms canned food formula. This recipe features fresh chicken as the primary ingredient with supplemental protein from chicken liver and dried egg. Salmon oil is a rich source of omega-3 fatty acids and DHA to support your kitten’s skin and coat as well as his brain and eye development. This recipe is made in the USA and completely free from artificial additives.

Ingredients

Chicken, Chicken Broth, Chicken Liver, Natural Flavor, Dried Egg Product, Calcium Carbonate, Organic Dehydrated Alfalfa Meal, Sodium Phosphate, Guar Gum, Salmon Oil, Potassium Chloride, Salt, Choline Chloride, Taurine, Agar-Agar, Ground Flaxseed, Locust Bean Gum, Xanthan Gum, Yucca Schidigera Extract, Vitamins (Vitamin E Supplement, Thiamine Mononitrate, Niacin, d-Calcium Pantothenate, Vitamin B12 Supplement, Vitamin A Supplement, Riboflavin Supplement, Folic Acid, Biotin, Pyridoxine Hydrochloride, Menadione Sodium Bisulfite Complex (source of Vitamin K), Vitamin D3 Supplement), Minerals (Zinc Amino Acid Complex, Sodium Selenite, Manganese Amino Acid Complex, Iron Amino Acid Complex, Copper Amino Acid Complex, Cobalt Glucoheptonate, Potassium Iodide).

Guaranteed Analysis

Protein: 9%

Fat: 4%

Fiber: 3%

Moisture: 78%

Ash: 3%

Carb: 3%

Dry Matter Analysis

Protein: 40.91%

Fat: 18.18%

Fiber: 13.64%

Ash: 13.64%

Carb: 13.64%

High in carbohydrates
High moisture content
To our knowledge, Whole Earth Farms has never had a product recall
Contains health promoting ground flaxseed for fiber
Doesn’t contain fillers, by-products, or artificial additives
Rich in species-appropriate animal protein
Affordable
A good source of omega-3 fatty acids
Has all the nutrients your kitten or mother cat needs

Low protein content
Contains a small amount of plant-based proteins
Some cats may be allergic to fish

Wellness CORE Grain-Free Kitten Formula Dry Cat Food

71%

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Rating

Price 51%

Size Variety 100%

Quality of Ingredients 79%

Customer Experience 81%

Nutrient Value 80%

Recall History 35%

Manufacturing Method 40%

Product info

Age Range:Kitten Cost per day:$0.17

Company info

Company HQTewksbury, Massachusetts Parent companyWellPet LLC

Overview

Featuring fresh turkey and chicken as the primary proteins, this recipe also contains herring meal for added protein and flavor. Chicken fat is the primary source of added fat, but salmon oil is also included as a rich source of omega-3s and DHA. Packed with protein, this recipe supports healthy growth and development in kittens with a proprietary probiotic coating to ensure regular digestion and optimal nutrient absorption.

Ingredients

Deboned Turkey, Turkey Meal, Deboned Chicken, Chicken Meal, Peas, Herring Meal, Chicken Fat (preserved with Mixed Tocopherols), Dried Ground Potatoes, Tomato Pomace, Ground Flaxseed, Salmon Oil, Natural Chicken Flavor, Cranberries, Chicory Root Extract, Choline Chloride, Taurine, Vitamin E Supplement, Dried Kelp, Zinc Proteinate, Mixed Tocopherols (added to preserve freshness), Zinc Sulfate, Calcium Carbonate, Niacin, Iron Proteinate, Ferrous Sulfate, Yucca Schidigera Extract, Vitamin A Supplement, Copper Sulfate, Thiamine Mononitrate, Copper Proteinate, Manganese Proteinate, Manganese Sulfate, d-Calcium Pantothenate, Sodium Selenite, Pyridoxine Hydrochloride, Riboflavin, Vitamin D3 Supplement, Biotin, Calcium Iodate, Vitamin B12 Supplement, Folic Acid, Ascorbic Acid (Vitamin C), Dried Lactobacillus Plantarum Fermentation Product, Dried Enterococcus Faecium Fermentation Product, Dried Lactobacillus Casei Fermentation Product, Dried Lactobacillus acidophilus Fermentation Product, Rosemary Extract, Green Tea Extract, Spearmint Extract.

Guaranteed Analysis

Protein: 45%

Fat: 18%

Fiber: 3%

Moisture: 10%

Ash: 0%

Carb: 24%

Dry Matter Analysis

Protein: 50%

Fat: 20%

Fiber: 3.33%

Ash: 8%

Carb: 26.67%

Supplemented with chelated minerals for optimal nutrient absorption
Contains health promoting ground flaxseed for fiber
Contains dried kelp as a natural source of essential nutrients
Doesn’t contain fillers, by-products, or artificial additives
Rich in species-appropriate animal protein
A good source of omega-3 fatty acids
Has all the nutrients your kitten or mother cat needs

Not a Calorie-dense recipe
Low in moisture
Contains a small amount of plant-based proteins
The brand has had multiple recalls over recent years
Some cats may be allergic to fish

Royal Canin Feline Health Nutrition Dry Cat Food for Young Kittens

68%

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Rating

Price 25%

Size Variety 100%

Quality of Ingredients 58%

Customer Experience 92%

Nutrient Value 54%

Recall History 100%

Manufacturing Method 40%

Product info

Age Range:Kitten Cost per day:$0.28

Company info

Company HQAimargues, France Parent companyMars Inc

Overview

This dry food formula is designed to support your kitten’s digestion, immunity, and overall health. It is uniquely formulated for kittens aged 4 to 12 months, packed with protein from chicken and egg. An exclusive blend of antioxidants helps your kitten develop a strong immune system while a unique combination of fibers and prebiotics ensure easy digestion.

Ingredients

Chicken By-Product Meal, Brown Rice, Brewers Rice, Chicken Fat, Corn Gluten Meal, Wheat Gluten, Corn, Natural Flavors, Egg Product, Dried Plain Beet Pulp, Powdered Cellulose, Fish Oil, Vegetable Oil, Sodium Silico Aluminate, Grain Distillers Dried Yeast, Sodium Pyrophosphate, Potassium Chloride, Psyllium Seed Husk, Calcium Carbonate, Fructooligosaccharides, Hydrolyzed Yeast (source of Betaglucans), Choline Chloride, Vitamins [DL-Alpha Tocopherol Acetate (source of Vitamin E), L-Ascorbyl-2-Polyphosphate (source of Vitamin C), Niacin Supplement, Biotin, Riboflavin Supplement, D-Calcium Pantothenate, Pyridoxine Hydrochloride (Vitamin B6), Vitamin A Acetate, Thiamine Mononitrate (Vitamin B1), Vitamin B12 Supplement, Folic Acid, Vitamin D3 Supplement], Taurine, Salt, Trace Minerals [Zinc Proteinate, Zinc Oxide, Manganese Proteinate, Ferrous Sulfate, Manganous Oxide, Copper Sulfate, Calcium Iodate, Sodium Selenite, Copper Proteinate], L-Lysine, Marigold Extract (Tagetes Erecta L.), Magnesium Oxide, Carotene, Rosemary Extract, Preserved With Mixed Tocopherols and Citric Acid.

Guaranteed Analysis

Protein: 34%

Fat: 16%

Fiber: 4%

Moisture: 8%

Ash: 0%

Carb: 38%

Dry Matter Analysis

Protein: 36.96%

Fat: 17.39%

Fiber: 4.35%

Ash: 8%

Carb: 41.3%

High in carbohydrates
To our knowledge, Royal Canin has never had a product recall
Supplemented with chelated minerals for optimal nutrient absorption
A good source of omega-3 fatty acids
Most customers have good experiences with this food
Has all the nutrients your kitten or mother cat needs

Expensive
Low protein content
Low in moisture
Contains plant-based proteins
Contains Chicken by products
Some cats may be allergic to fish

Price Vs Overall Score Comparison

Why Should You Trust Us

As cat parents ourselves, we understand how hard it is to choose the right kitten food with so many recipes available in 2024. So how do you navigate past marketing claims to get real facts?

That’s where we come in. With over 2773 recipe reviews, Pet Food Sherpa is the largest database for cat food recipe reviews overseen by a vet nutrition specialist.

Our team has analyzed over 125 Kitten Foods and selected the 10 best recipes, we then used our pet food algorithm to determine the scores for each recipe.

You should keep in mind that no single Kitten Food food is right for all cats. Instead, use our list as a research tool to help you make a better-informed decision on your kitten’s diet.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. When to transition kitten to cat food?

When your kitten is still growing, it’s important to provide him with a nutritionally complete kitten recipe that supports development. Kittens require a much higher concentration of calories and protein than adult cats, so it’s best to feed a kitten kitten food rather than adult cat food.

As your kitten matures, his rate of growth will slow down and you can start thinking about making the switch to adult cat food. If you have a purebred kitten and have an expected adult size, you can start transitioning onto adult cat food when your kitten reaches about 80% of his expected size. For mixed breeds, size predictions are tricky so it may be best to simply go with the 12-month rule.

While some breeds take longer to develop than others, many kittens stop growing or grow at a much slower rate after 12 months. This is the ideal time to make the switch to adult cat food because your kitten no longer needs the higher calorie content. Protein will continue to be essential throughout your cat’s life, however, so be sure to choose an adult cat food formula that is rich in animal protein.

To transition your kitten onto an adult cat food, simply mix small amounts of the new food with his current diet and increase the proportion over the course of a week or so. If your kitten has a sensitive stomach or experiences digestive upset during the transition, you may need to draw it out longer.

2. Can adult cats eat kitten food?

All cats have the same basic nutritional requirements, though there are some differences in optimal concentrations for key nutrients between different life stages. For adult cats, the most important thing is maintaining a healthy body weight. For kittens, growth and development is the key.

Commercial cat foods are formulated in accordance with the recommendations set forth by AAFCO. In order to meet these recommendations, adult cat foods must contain at least 26% protein and 9% fat and kitten foods must contain at least 30% protein and 9% fat. So, kitten food will certainly meet the minimum nutritional requirements for adult cats, but it may not be the best choice.

While kitten food is higher in protein than adult cat food, it also tends to be more concentrated in calories. This could be beneficial for very active cats who have trouble keeping on weight, but it could be a problem for overweight or obese cats who don’t need the extra calories.

There’s certainly nothing dangerous about kitten food for adult cats, but it’s generally best to select a recipe appropriate for your cat’s life sage.

3. How much wet cat food should you feed a kitten?

As your kitten is growing and developing, he needs a steady influx of energy. Not only should you choose a calorie-dense kitten formula, but you should feed your kitten often enough to sustain his metabolism. For most kittens, that means at least three daily meals.

An adult cat needs between 2.5 and 3 ounces of wet food per 10 pounds of body weight per day. Growing kittens may need up to twice as many calories than adult cats per pound of body weight, though their needs will change as they grow.

Very young kittens should be offered unlimited amounts of wet food or dry food mixed with water or milk replacement to soften the texture. By the time your kitten is fully weaned, you can continue to let him feed freely or start to offer portioned meals.

Up to six months of age, kittens should eat about 2 ounces of wet food per pound of body weight per day. Between six and 12 months, give your kitten about 1.5 ounces of wet food per pound of body weight daily. After your kitten reaches maturity at 1 year, you can switch to adult portions.

Something to keep in mind when feeding your kitten is that different recipes have differing calorie content. It’s a good idea to check the calorie content on the can and refer to the feeding recommendations, using your kitten’s age and weight to determine the proper portion. Keep an eye on your kitten’s growth to determine whether you need to make adjustments from there.

4. Is it okay to give a kitten regular cat food?

Kittens require a diet that is rich in protein and calories to support their rapid growth and development. While all cat food that is formulated in accordance with AAFCO nutrient profiles contains the minimal protein requirements for adult cats, kitten food has higher levels of protein – they also generally have more fat. Higher concentrations of protein provide the amino acids your kitten needs for healthy muscle development while extra fat provides calories for energy to sustain growth.

For these reasons, it’s best to give kitten food to kittens and feed adult cat food to adult cats. There’s certainly nothing harmful about adult cat food, but it simply isn’t going to support your kitten’s optimal growth and wellness.

If your kitten snacks from an adult cat’s bowl, you don’t need to be concerned about any significant negative effects. Your kitten might experience some digestive upset if the two recipes are very different, but there isn’t anything in adult cat food that isn’t good for kittens.

5. Can kittens eat dry cat food?

When it comes to feeding your kitten, finding a nutritionally complete recipe is the most important thing. As long as you choose a recipe formulated to support kitten growth and development, you have the freedom to choose between wet cat food and dry cat food.

Though you can certainly feed your kitten whatever type of kitten food you like, there are some advantages to wet food over dry cat food.

Wet cat food is a more species-appropriate choice for kittens than dry cat food for several reasons. First and foremost, it tends to be higher in protein than dry food and lower in carbohydrates. Dry cat food requires the use of starches and other binders to shape it into kibble – it also typically requires the use of added preservatives which canned food does not.

Depending on your kitten’s age, wet cat food may be easier to eat. Very young kittens that have only just begun to eat solid food generally do best with wet food or moistened dry food. The soft texture of wet food is often more palatable and certainly easier for kittens to eat.

While wet cat food may be a more species-appropriate choice for kittens, there’s no reason you can’t feed your kitten dry cat food. It is often more affordable and easier to portion and store than wet food. If that’s what’s in your budget, there’s nothing wrong with it.

The post The 10 Best Kitten Foods appeared first on Pet Food Sherpa.

10 Best Dry Cat Foods

Kate Barrington — Thu, 10 Feb 2022 01:59:02 +0000

1. The Best Dry Cat Food Formulas in 2024
2. Price Vs Overall Score Comparison
3. Why Should You Trust Us
4. Frequently Asked Questions

Dry cat food offers a shelf-stable alternative to fresh food – it also tends to be a more economical option. Feeding is simple, you just scoop out the appropriate amount and dump it into your cat’s bowl. It’s easy to add flavor and moisture as well by soaking it in water or bone broth.

While dry cat food tends to have higher concentrations of carbohydrate than wet food, there are certainly brands that focus on animal sources of protein and fat.

A species-appropriate recipe will contain an animal-based protein as the main ingredient with as few plant ingredients as possible.

The Best Dry Cat Food Formulas in 2024

Now that you’ve been introduced to the basics about dry cat food, take a look at some of the options we recommend below.

Dr. Elsey's cleanprotein Chicken Formula Grain-Free Dry Cat Food

83%

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Rating

Price 49%

Quality of Ingredients 85%

Customer Experience 84%

Nutrient Value 100%

Recall History 100%

Manufacturing Method 40%

Product info

Age Range:Adult Cost per day:$0.25

Company info

Company HQEnglewood, Colorado Parent companyDr. Elsey's

Overview

Formulated with high levels of protein, this dry food formula satisfies your cat’s carnivorous cravings while supporting optimal health. Fresh chicken and dried egg provide species-appropriate sources of animal protein, supplemented with pork protein isolate. Chicken fat provides a nutrient-rich source of essential fatty acids with salmon oil for omega-3s. This recipe is low glycemic and highly digestible.

Ingredients

Chicken, Dried Egg Product, Pork Protein Isolate, Gelatin, Chicken Fat (Preserved With Mixed Tocopherols), Flaxseed, Natural Flavor, Salmon Oil, Potassium Citrate, Calcium Carbonate, Fructooligosaccharide, Calcium Carbonate, Choline Chloride, Vitamins (Vitamin E Supplement, Niacin Supplement, D-Calcium Pantothenate, Vitamin A Acetate, Thiamine Mononitrate, Pyridoxine Hydrochloride, Riboflavin Supplement, Vitamin D3 Supplement, Biotin, Vitamin B12 Supplement, Folic Acid), Minerals (Ferrous Sulfate, Zinc Oxide, Calcium Carbonate, Manganous Oxide, Copper Sulfate, Iron Amino Acid Chelate, Manganese Amino Acid Chelate, Zinc Amino Acid Chelate, Copper Amino Acid Chelate, Sodium Selenite, Cobalt Carbonate, Ethylenediamine Dihydroiodide), Potassium Chloride, Mixed Tocopherols (Preservative), Taurine, Salt, Rosemary Extract.

Guaranteed Analysis

Protein: 59%

Fat: 18%

Fiber: 4%

Moisture: 12%

Ash: 0%

Carb: 7%

Dry Matter Analysis

Protein: 67.05%

Fat: 20.45%

Fiber: 4.55%

Ash: 8%

Carb: 7.95%

Low carbohydrate content
To our knowledge, Dr. Elsey's has never had a product recall
Supplemented with chelated minerals for optimal nutrient absorption
Made with fiber-rich flaxseed
Doesn’t contain fillers, by-products, or artificial additives
Rich in species-appropriate animal protein
A good source of omega-3 fatty acids

Low in moisture
Contains a small amount of plant-based proteins
Some cats may be allergic to fish

Ziwi Peak Air-Dried Lamb Recipe Cat Food

80%

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Rating

Price 56%

Quality of Ingredients 93%

Customer Experience 74%

Nutrient Value 61%

Recall History 100%

Manufacturing Method 90%

Product info

Age Range:Adult Cost per day:$0.80

Company info

Company HQMt. Maunganui, New Zealand Parent companyZiwi Ltd

Overview

Gently air dried to preserve nutrition, this lamb recipe from Ziwi Peak is formulated with 96% meat, organs, bone, and New Zealand green mussels. Fresh lamb is the primary ingredient, supplemented with lamb organs and bone to ensure balanced nutrition. New Zealand green mussels support mobility with their natural content of glucosamine and chondroitin.

Ingredients

Lamb, Lamb Heart, Lamb Tripe, Lamb Liver, Lamb Kidney, Lamb Lung, New Zealand Green Mussel, Lamb Bone, Lecithin, Inulin from Chicory, Dried Kelp, Minerals (Dipotassium Phosphate, Magnesium Sulfate, Zinc Amino Acid Complex, Copper Amino Acid Complex, Iron Amino Acid Complex, Manganese Amino Acid Complex, Sodium Selenite), Salt, Preservative (Citric Acid, Mixed Tocopherols), Vitamins (Choline Chloride, Thiamine Mononitrate, Pyridoxine Hydrochloride, Folic Acid, Vitamin D3 Supplement), DL-Methionine, Taurine.

Guaranteed Analysis

Protein: 35%

Fat: 33%

Fiber: 2%

Moisture: 14%

Ash: 12%

Carb: 4%

Dry Matter Analysis

Protein: 40.7%

Fat: 38.37%

Fiber: 2.33%

Ash: 13.95%

Carb: 4.65%

Low carbohydrate content
To our knowledge, Ziwi has never had a product recall
Gently air-dried to preserve nutrition
Contains dried kelp as a natural source of essential nutrients
Contains lamb tripe for added palatability
Green-lipped mussel is added as a source of glucosamine and chondroitin
Doesn’t contain fillers, by-products, or artificial additives
Rich in species-appropriate animal protein

Low in moisture
Contains a small amount of plant-based proteins
Doesn’t receive consistently positive customer reviews

Instinct Ultimate Protein Grain-Free Cage-Free Chicken Recipe Freeze-Dried Raw Coated Dry Cat Food

80%

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Rating

Price 54%

Size Variety 100%

Quality of Ingredients 76%

Customer Experience 84%

Nutrient Value 84%

Recall History 100%

Manufacturing Method 40%

Product info

Age Range:Adult Cost per day:$0.22

Company info

Company HQLincoln, Nebraska Parent companyM.I. Industries

Overview

Coated with freeze-dried chicken, this dry food is packed with protein and loaded with flavor. A full 95% of this recipe’s protein comes from chicken while chicken fat is the primary source of added fat. This recipe contains a limited list of main ingredients, making it highly digestible. It also contains probiotics to support healthy and regular digestion.

Ingredients

Chicken, Tapioca, Chicken Fat (preserved with Mixed Tocopherols and Citric Acid), Ground Flaxseed, Natural Flavor, Dried Tomato Pomace, Dried Whey Protein Concentrate, Dicalcium Phosphate, Potassium Chloride, Salt, Vitamins (Vitamin E Supplement, Niacin Supplement, L-Ascorbyl-2-Polyphosphate, Thiamine Mononitrate, d-Calcium Pantothenate, Vitamin A Supplement, Riboflavin Supplement, Pyridoxine Hydrochloride, Vitamin B12 Supplement, Folic Acid, Vitamin D3 Supplement, Biotin), Montmorillonite Clay, Choline Chloride, Minerals (Zinc Proteinate, Iron Proteinate, Copper Proteinate, Manganese Proteinate, Sodium Selenite, Ethylenediamine Dihydriodide), Taurine, Freeze Dried Chicken, Freeze Dried Chicken Liver, Pumpkinseeds, Freeze Dried Chicken Heart, Dried Bacillus coagulans Fermentation Product, Rosemary Extract.

Guaranteed Analysis

Protein: 47%

Fat: 17%

Fiber: 3%

Moisture: 10%

Ash: 0%

Carb: 23%

Dry Matter Analysis

Protein: 52.22%

Fat: 18.89%

Fiber: 3.33%

Ash: 8%

Carb: 25.56%

Rich in protein
Low carbohydrate content
To our knowledge, Instinct has never had a product recall
Freeze-dried food retains the nutritional value of raw meat
Supplemented with chelated minerals for optimal nutrient absorption
Contains health promoting ground flaxseed for fiber
Doesn’t contain fillers, by-products, or artificial additives

Low in moisture
Contains plant-based proteins
Freeze dried cat food requires rehydration, which is time-consuming

Wysong Optimal Vitality Dry Cat Food

78%

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Rating

Price 70%

Size Variety 83%

Quality of Ingredients 71%

Customer Experience 79%

Nutrient Value 91%

Recall History 100%

Manufacturing Method 40%

Product info

Age Range:Adult Cost per day:$0.17

Company info

Company HQMidland, Michigan Parent companyWysong Corporation

Overview

If you’re looking for a protein-packed recipe to support your cat’s wellness, this dry food from Wysong is a great option. It contains 50% protein, primarily from chicken meal and organic chicken, with nutrient-rich chicken fat as the primary added fat source. This recipe delivers a blend of omega fatty acids from fish oil, coconut oil, and chia seeds with probiotics thrown in to support your cat’s digestion.

Ingredients

Chicken Meal, Organic Chicken, Turkey Meal, Pea Protein, Potato Protein, Peas, Chicken Fat (preserved with Mixed Tocopherols), Flaxseeds, Dried Plain Beet Pulp, Natural Flavor, Sesame Seeds, Montmorillonite Clay, Crab Meal, Dried Whey, Coconut Oil, Chia Seeds, Salt, Taurine, Calcium Carbonate, Calcium Propionate (a preservative), Dried Tomato Pomace, Choline Chloride, Yeast Extract, Organic Barley Grass Powder, Dried Blueberry Powder, Dried Yogurt, Dried Kelp, Apple Pectin, Dried Kale, Dried Spinach, Dried Carrots, Fish Oil, Citric Acid (a preservative), Inulin, Mixed Tocopherols (a preservative), Rosemary Extract, Yeast Culture, Minerals (Potassium Chloride, Zinc Proteinate, Zinc Sulfate, Ferrous Sulfate, Iron Proteinate, Copper Sulfate, Copper Proteinate, Manganese Sulfate, Manganese Proteinate, Sodium Selenite, Calcium Iodate), Vitamins (Ascorbic Acid [source of Vitamin C], Vitamin E Supplement, Niacin Supplement, Calcium Pantothenate, Vitamin A Supplement, Thiamine Mononitrate, Pyridoxine Hydrochloride, Riboflavin Supplement, Vitamin D3 Supplement, Biotin, Vitamin B12 Supplement, Folic Acid), Dried Aspergillus Oryzae Fermentation Product, Dried Enterococcus Faecium Fermentation Product, Dried Lactobacillus Casei Fermentation Product, Dried Lactobacillus acidophilus Fermentation Product, Dried Bacillus Subtilis Fermentation Product, Dried Lactobacillus Plantarum Fermentation Product, Dried Lactobacillus Lactis Fermentation Product, Pepper.

Guaranteed Analysis

Protein: 50%

Fat: 14%

Fiber: 5.5%

Moisture: 10%

Ash: 0%

Carb: 20.5%

Dry Matter Analysis

Protein: 55.56%

Fat: 15.56%

Fiber: 6.11%

Ash: 8%

Carb: 22.78%

Low carbohydrate content
To our knowledge, Wysong has never had a product recall
Supplemented with chelated minerals for optimal nutrient absorption
Contains dried kelp as a natural source of essential nutrients
Doesn’t contain fillers, by-products, or artificial additives
Rich in species-appropriate animal protein
A good source of omega-3 fatty acids

Low in moisture
Contains a small amount of plant-based proteins
Some cats may be allergic to fish

Tiki Cat Born Carnivore Chicken & Egg Grain-Free Dry Cat Food

78%

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Rating

Price 56%

Size Variety 100%

Quality of Ingredients 77%

Customer Experience 81%

Nutrient Value 76%

Recall History 100%

Manufacturing Method 40%

Product info

Age Range:Adult Cost per day:$0.22

Company info

Company HQCharleston, Illinois Parent companyPetropics Inc.

Overview

If you’re looking for a protein-rich formula your cat will love, look no further. Packed with protein from fresh chicken, chicken meal, and dried chicken, this recipe is full of natural chicken flavor. This recipe contains two animal-based fats – chicken fat and salmon oil – to provide a balance of heathy fats. It’s made with only non-GMO ingredients in a formula that is completely free from artificial colors and flavors.

Ingredients

Deboned Chicken, Chicken Meal, Dehydrated Chicken, Dried Egg Product, Tapioca, Natural Chicken Flavor, Ground Whole Flaxseed, Chickpeas, Peas, Chicken Fat (Preserved With Mixed Tocopherols And Citric Acid), Brewers Dried Yeast, Calcium Sulfate, Choline Chloride, Inulin (Prebiotic), Salmon Oil, Pumpkin, Taurine, Ferrous Sulfate, Zinc Sulfate, Vitamin E Supplement, Niacin Supplement (Vitamin B3), Copper Sulfate, Vitamin A Supplement, Manganese Sulfate, Thiamine Mononitrate (Vitamin B1), D-Calcium Pantothenate, Pyridoxine Hydrochloride (Vitamin B6), Biotin, Riboflavin Supplement (Vitamin B2), Vitamin B12 Supplement, Vitamin D3 Supplement, Calcium Iodate, Folic Acid, Sodium Selenite, Rosemary Extract, Ascorbic Acid (Preservative), Citric Acid, Tannic Acid.

Guaranteed Analysis

Protein: 43%

Fat: 19%

Fiber: 3.5%

Moisture: 10%

Ash: 0%

Carb: 24.5%

Dry Matter Analysis

Protein: 47.78%

Fat: 21.11%

Fiber: 3.89%

Ash: 8%

Carb: 27.22%

Low carbohydrate content
To our knowledge, Tiki Cat has never had a product recall
Doesn’t contain fillers, by-products, or artificial additives
Rich in species-appropriate animal protein
A good source of omega-3 fatty acids

Low in moisture
Contains a small amount of plant-based proteins
Some cats may be allergic to fish

Go! Solutions CARNIVORE Grain Free Chicken

75%

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Rating

Price 61%

Quality of Ingredients 81%

Customer Experience 75%

Nutrient Value 71%

Recall History 100%

Manufacturing Method 50%

Product info

Age Range:Adult Cost per day:$1.22

Company info

Company HQBritish Columbia, Canada Parent companyPetcurean Pet Nutrition

Overview

When it comes to protein, this dry cat food from Go! Solutions has it in spades. The first seven ingredients are all species-appropriate sources of animal protein from chicken, turkey, duck, and fish. This recipe is loaded with natural flavor and provides an ideal balance of protein and healthy fat. To support your cat’s healthy digestion, this recipe is supplemented with probiotics while antioxidant-rich cranberries support urinary tract health.

Ingredients

Chicken, Chicken Liver, Chicken Broth, Turkey Broth, Turkey, Tapioca, Duck, Dried Egg Whites, Flaxseed, Cassia Gum, Guar Gum, Sodium Tripolyphosphate, Pumpkin, Cranberries, Salmon Oil, Vitamins (Vitamin A Supplement, Vitamin D3 Supplement, Vitamin E Supplement, Niacin, Thiamine Mononitrate, D-Calcium Pantothenate, Riboflavin, Pyridoxine Hydrochloride, Folic Acid, Biotin, Vitamin B12 Supplement), Minerals (Zinc Proteinate, Iron Proteinate, Copper Proteinate, Manganese Proteinate, Calcium Iodate, Sodium Selenite), Taurine, Potassium Chloride, Choline Chloride, Salt.

Guaranteed Analysis

Protein: 10%

Fat: 5.5%

Fiber: 1%

Moisture: 78%

Ash: 0%

Carb: 5.5%

Dry Matter Analysis

Protein: 45.45%

Fat: 25%

Fiber: 4.55%

Ash: 8%

Carb: 25%

High moisture content
To our knowledge, Go! has never had a product recall
Supplemented with chelated minerals for optimal nutrient absorption
Made with fiber-rich flaxseed
Doesn’t contain fillers, by-products, or artificial additives
Rich in species-appropriate animal protein
A good source of omega-3 fatty acids

Low protein content
High in carbohydrates
Contains a small amount of plant-based proteins
Some cats may be allergic to fish

Solid Gold Indigo Moon with Chicken & Eggs Grain-Free High Protein Dry Cat Food

74%

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Rating

Price 70%

Size Variety 100%

Quality of Ingredients 71%

Customer Experience 89%

Nutrient Value 73%

Recall History 71%

Manufacturing Method 40%

Product info

Age Range:Adult Cost per day:$0.16

Company info

Company HQChesterfield, Missouri Parent companySolid Gold Health Products for Pets, Inc.

Overview

Formulated with plenty of protein from chicken and eggs, this dry cat food recipe is designed to support your cat’s optimal health and wellness. With probiotic support for gut health and functional superfoods for immune support, this recipe will keep your cat healthy and strong. Salmon oil provides plenty of skin- and coat-supporting omega-3s while canola oil offers high omega-6 content to balance it out.

Ingredients

Chicken Meal, Potatoes, Canola Oil (Preserved with Mixed Tocopherols), Peas, Chicken, Dried Eggs, Ocean Fish Meal, Natural Flavor, Carrots, Potassium Chloride, Pumpkin, Salmon Oil (Preserved with Mixed Tocopherols), Vitamins (Vitamin E Supplement, L-Ascorbyl-2-Polyphosphate (Source of Vitamin C), Niacin, Calcium Pantothenate, Riboflavin Supplement, Pyridoxine Hydrochloride, Thiamine Mononitrate, Vitamin A Supplement, Vitamin B12 Supplement, Vitamin D3 Supplement, Biotin, Folic Acid), Taurine, Minerals (Zinc Sulfate, Ferrous Sulfate, Copper Sulfate, Manganese Sulfate, Zinc Proteinate, Manganese Proteinate, Copper Proteinate, Sodium Selenite, Calcium Iodate), Blueberries, Cranberries, DL-Methionine, Choline Chloride, Dried Chicory Root, Rosemary Extract, Dried Lactobacillus Acidophilus Fermentation Product, Dried Enterococcus Faecium Fermentation Product, Dried Lactobacillus Casei Fermentation Product.

Guaranteed Analysis

Protein: 42%

Fat: 20%

Fiber: 3%

Moisture: 10%

Ash: 0%

Carb: 25%

Dry Matter Analysis

Protein: 46.67%

Fat: 22.22%

Fiber: 3.33%

Ash: 8%

Carb: 27.78%

Rich in protein
Low carbohydrate content
Supplemented with chelated minerals for optimal nutrient absorption
Doesn’t contain fillers, by-products, or artificial additives
A good source of omega-3 fatty acids

Low in moisture
Contains plant-based proteins
Some cats may be allergic to fish

Wellness CORE Grain-Free Indoor Formula Dry Cat Food

70%

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Rating

Price 53%

Size Variety 100%

Quality of Ingredients 75%

Customer Experience 75%

Nutrient Value 80%

Recall History 35%

Manufacturing Method 40%

Product info

Age Range:Adult Cost per day:$0.23

Company info

Company HQTewksbury, Massachusetts Parent companyWellPet LLC

Overview

Formulated to support the nutritional needs of indoor cats, this Wellness dry food recipe features deboned chicken as the first ingredient. This recipe is completely free from animal by-products and fillers, made with numerous sources of species-appropriate animal protein. The primary source of added fat is nutrient-rich chicken fat and the overall carbohydrate content is below average for a dry cat food formula.

Ingredients

Deboned Chicken, Turkey Meal, Chicken Meal, Peas, Potatoes, Tomato Pomace, Ground Flaxseed, Chicken Fat (preserved with Mixed Tocopherols), Natural Chicken Flavor, Chicory Root Extract, Choline Chloride, Cranberries, Taurine, Vitamin E Supplement, Glucosamine Hydrochloride, Chondroitin Sulfate, Dried Kelp, L-Carnitine, Zinc Proteinate, Mixed Tocopherols added to preserve freshness, Zinc Sulfate, Calcium Carbonate, Niacin, Iron Proteinate, Ferrous Sulfate, Yucca Schidigera Extract, Vitamin A Supplement, Copper Sulfate, Thiamine Mononitrate, Copper Proteinate, Manganese Proteinate, Manganese Sulfate, d-Calcium Pantothenate, Sodium Selenite, Pyridoxine Hydrochloride, Riboflavin, Vitamin D3 Supplement, Biotin, Calcium Iodate, Vitamin B12 Supplement, Folic Acid, Ascorbic Acid (Vitamin C), Dried Lactobacillus plantarum Fermentation Product, Dried Enterococcus faecium Fermentation Product, Dried Lactobacillus casei Fermentation Product, Dried Lactobacillus acidophilus Fermentation Product, Rosemary Extract, Green Tea Extract, Spearmint Extract.

Guaranteed Analysis

Protein: 45%

Fat: 18%

Fiber: 3%

Moisture: 10%

Ash: 0%

Carb: 24%

Dry Matter Analysis

Protein: 50%

Fat: 20%

Fiber: 3.33%

Ash: 8%

Carb: 26.67%

Low carbohydrate content
Supplemented with chelated minerals for optimal nutrient absorption
Contains health promoting ground flaxseed for fiber
Contains dried kelp as a natural source of essential nutrients
Doesn’t contain fillers, by-products, or artificial additives
Rich in species-appropriate animal protein

Low in moisture
Contains a small amount of plant-based proteins
Doesn’t receive consistently positive customer reviews
The brand has had multiple recalls over recent years

Instinct Limited Ingredient Diet Grain-Free Recipe with Real Rabbit Freeze-Dried Raw Coated Dry Cat Food

70%

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Rating

Price 26%

Size Variety 100%

Quality of Ingredients 69%

Customer Experience 82%

Nutrient Value 57%

Recall History 100%

Manufacturing Method 40%

Product info

Age Range:Adult Cost per day:$0.26

Company info

Company HQLincoln, Nebraska Parent companyM.I. Industries

Overview

Cats with food allergies and sensitivities often require a limited ingredient diet. Not only does this Instinct recipe contain a short list of main ingredients, but it is made with a single source of animal protein, and a novel one at that. With rabbit meal as the primary ingredient, this recipe is protein-packed and easy to digest. Plus, the kibbles are sprayed with freeze-dried rabbit for a boost of flavor and added protein.

Ingredients

Rabbit Meal, Peas, Tapioca, Canola Oil (preserved with Mixed Tocopherols and Citric Acid), Rabbit, Natural Flavor, Coconut Oil, Montmorillonite Clay, Taurine, Choline Chloride, Potassium Chloride, Vitamins (Vitamin E Supplement, L-Ascorbyl-2-Polyphosphate, Niacin Supplement, Thiamine Mononitrate, d-Calcium Pantothenate, Vitamin A Supplement, Riboflavin Supplement, Pyridoxine Hydrochloride, Vitamin B12 Supplement, Folic Acid, Vitamin D3 Supplement, Biotin), DL-Methionine, Minerals (Zinc Proteinate, Iron Proteinate, Copper Proteinate, Manganese Proteinate, Sodium Selenite, Ethylenediamine Dihydriodide), Freeze Dried Rabbit, Salt, Pumpkinseeds, Rosemary Extract.

Guaranteed Analysis

Protein: 35%

Fat: 19%

Fiber: 5.5%

Moisture: 9%

Ash: 0%

Carb: 31.5%

Dry Matter Analysis

Protein: 38.46%

Fat: 20.88%

Fiber: 6.04%

Ash: 8%

Carb: 34.62%

Low carbohydrate content
To our knowledge, Instinct has never had a product recall
Freeze-dried food retains the nutritional value of raw meat
Supplemented with chelated minerals for optimal nutrient absorption
Doesn’t contain fillers, by-products, or artificial additives

Expensive
Low in moisture
Contains plant-based proteins
Freeze dried cat food requires rehydration, which is time-consuming

Price Vs Overall Score Comparison

Why Should You Trust Us

As dog parents ourselves, we understand how hard it is to choose the right dry cat food with so many recipes available on the market in 2024. So how do you navigate past marketing claims to get real facts?

That’s where we come in. With over 639 recipe reviews, Pet Food Sherpa is the largest database for dog food recipe reviews overseen by a vet nutrition specialist.

Our team has analyzed over 639 dry cat foods and selected the 10 best recipes, we then used our pet food algorithm to determine the scores for each recipe.

You should keep in mind that no single dry cat food is right for all cats. Instead, use our list as a research tool to help you make a better-informed decision on your cat’s diet.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. How much dry food to feed a cat?

How much you feed your cat depends on a variety of factors including age, size, activity level, and body condition. Kittens require more protein and calories than adult cats, as do cats who regularly get a lot of exercise. If your cat is already overweight, he may need less food than a cat of healthy weight, while cats that are pregnant or lactating may need more calories than the average cat.

Because cats are smaller than dogs – and because calorie content varies greatly between recipes - it often makes sense to think about your cat’s daily requirements in terms of calories rather than the number of cups. Keep in mind as well that your cat’s caloric requirements may differ depending on their alteration status (whether they’ve been spayed or neutered).

Here’s a quick chart to give you an idea how many calories your cat needs:

Weight	Healthy Weight – Spayed/Neutered	Healthy Weight - Intact	Prone to Weight Gain	In Need of Weight Loss
5 lbs.	157 kcal/day	183 kcal/day	131 kcal/day	105 kcal/day
7.5 lbs.	210 kcal/day	245 kcal/day	175 kcal/day	140 kcal/day
10 lbs.	260 kcal/day	303 kcal/day	216 kcal/day	173 kcal/day
12.5 lbs.	298 kcal/day	362 kcal/day	258 kcal/day	207 kcal/day
15 lbs.	354 kcal/day	413 kcal/day	295 kcal/day	236 kcal/day
17.5 lbs.	396 kcal/day	462 kcal/day	330 kcal/day	264 kcal/day
20 lbs.	440 kcal/day	513 kcal/day	367 kcal/day	293 kcal/day

Keep in mind that your cat’s caloric requirements can range by as much as 50% from these recommendations. If you’re not sure how much you should be feeding your cat, you can always ask your veterinarian. It’s also important to check the calorie content of your cat’s food so you can better determine whether the feeding recommendations on the label are appropriate.

2. How much wet and dry food to feed a cat?

Many cat owners choose to feed their cats a mixture of wet and dry food. Dry food is generally more affordable than wet food and it comes with the convenience of being shelf stable. Wet food, on the other hand, tends to be higher in protein and moisture with lower carbohydrate content.

Feeding your cat a blend of wet and dry food can help provide nutritional balance as well as dietary variation. Cats can get bored eating the same thing every day, so a diet of the same dry food day after day may cause your cat to eventually turn up his nose. Swapping out a few meals a week with wet food or adding some wet food to his dry food diet can make life more interesting.

If you’re going to feed your cat a mixture of wet and dry food, it’s a good idea to be intentional about the amounts. The simplest option is to do a 50/50 split. In this case, you can refer to the feeding recommendations for each product and just cut them both in half. If you prefer to use wet food more supplementally, go with a 25/75 split of wet to dry food.

3. Is dry food bad for cats?

When choosing a diet for your cat, it’s important to consider your cat’s nutritional requirements above all else. If the product you choose isn’t properly formulated to provide balanced nutrition for cats, the type of food won’t make a meaningful difference.

If you’re trying to decide between wet food and dry food for cats, there are some key points to consider. Dry food is generally a convenient and affordable option for pet owners, but it may not be the most species-appropriate choice for cats. Cats are obligate carnivores which means their natural evolutionary diet is meat-based. In fact, cats have very little ability to digest or derive nutrition from plant matter.

This is important to remember because dry food tends to be much higher in carbohydrates than wet food. Dry cat food is usually made through the process of extrusion which requires the use of starches and other binders to create the right consistency. Wet food, on the other hand, comes in a wide variety of textures and it doesn’t need to be solid enough to be shaped into hard kibbles.

Aside from the higher carbohydrate content, another potential problem with dry cat food is the low moisture content. Cats are already less likely to drink water on their own than dogs, so it’s a good idea to make up for that by including high moisture foods in your cat’s diet. Wet food typically contains at least 75% moisture while dry foods usually sit around 10%.

If it’s the best option for your budget and lifestyle, there’s nothing wrong with choosing a high-quality dry food for your cat. If wet food is an option, however – even if it’s only a supplemental part of your cat’s diet – it’s a great idea to include it.

4. How long does dry cat food last?

Dry cat food is preferred among many cat owners because it is easier to store than raw, fresh, or frozen food. While this type of food certainly has a longer shelf-life than many other options, it doesn’t last forever. Unopened packages of dry cat food generally last for 12 to 18 months.

When you purchase a bag of dry cat food, it’s a good idea to check the label. The label will generally tell you not only when the product was packaged but a date it should be used by. To ensure that your cat food stays fresh as long as possible, be sure to store it in a cool, dark, dry place like your kitchen pantry. The garage can be a good option as well, as long as it doesn’t get too hot or too cold.

Though dry cat food can last over a year when unopened, it starts to decline in quality and nutritional value as soon as you open it. Dry cat food generally contains preservatives to help keep it fresh, but exposure to air will start oxidizing the fats and breaking down other nutrients.

After you’ve opened a bag of dry cat food, it’s best to use it within 4 to 6 weeks. This may mean that you’ll need to buy smaller bags unless you have multiple cats and tend to go through cat food pretty quickly. Once you’ve portioned out dry cat food into your cat’s bowl, you can leave it out for up to 48 hours. After that, it’s best to discard it and replace it with fresh food.

5. Can you mix wet and dry cat food?

Whether you have a picky eater or you’re trying to moderate your pet food costs, you might think about mixing wet and dry cat food. There’s absolutely nothing wrong with this and, in fact, it can be a very good idea. Cats are notoriously picky eaters, so introducing some variety into a staple diet of dry food can be more interesting to your cat and can add a boost of nutrition as well.

If you’re going to provide your cat with a mixture of wet and dry food, think about how you’re going to do it. Will you go with a 50/50 blend or use the wet food more supplementally with a 25/75 split?

In terms of how to actually feed your cat a combination of wet and dry food, there are several options. One option is to feed your cat dry food at one meal and wet food at another. Another option is to serve the wet food on top of the dry food, or even side-by-side. If you’re trying to make dry food more palatable for your cat, you can even stir the two up together.

If you’re trying to soften dry food or make it more interesting for your cat by mixing in some wet food, look for a wet cat food that has some liquid in it. Recipes cooked in broth or gravy are a great option, as are wet cat food toppers and pouches.

The post 10 Best Dry Cat Foods appeared first on Pet Food Sherpa.

10 Best Wet Cat Food

Kate Barrington — Wed, 09 Feb 2022 15:59:42 +0000

1. The Best Wet, Canned and Soft Cat Formulas in 2024
2. Price Vs Overall Score Comparison
3. Why Should You Trust Us
4. Frequently Asked Questions

Wet cat food is highly nutritious and very appealing to cats. Not only does it tend to be much higher in protein than dry food, it’s also generally lower in carbohydrates.

Wet cat food isn’t subjected to the high heat process of extrusion which typically requires the addition of grains. It’s shelf stable until opened and it comes in a wide variety of flavors and textures.

The best wet cat food features an animal source of protein as the main ingredients with as few added carbohydrates as possible. It comes in a texture your cat likes and it’s free from cheap fillers and potentially harmful additives like artificial colors, flavors, and preservatives.

As is true for all pet foods, quality is determined by the list of ingredients and their sources.

The Best Wet, Canned and Soft Cat Formulas in 2024

Now that you’ve been introduced to the basics about wet cat food, take a look at some of the options we recommend below.

Tiki Cat Puka Puka Luau Succulent Chicken in Chicken Consomme Grain-Free Canned Cat Food

84%

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Rating

Price 47%

Quality of Ingredients 88%

Customer Experience 77%

Nutrient Value 100%

Recall History 100%

Manufacturing Method 50%

Product info

Age Range:Adult Cost per day:$1.59

Company info

Company HQCharleston, Illinois Parent companyPetropics Inc.

Overview

If you’re looking for a wet cat food that’s rich in animal protein without many unnecessary plant ingredients, this chicken formula from Tiki Cat is a great option. Featuring fresh chicken as the primary ingredient, this recipe contains no added carbohydrates at all. Plus, it’s packed with moisture to support your cat’s hydration and is completely free from artificial additives.

Ingredients

Chicken, Chicken Broth, Sunflower Seed Oil, Calcium Lactate, Dicalcium Phosphate, Potassium Chloride, Taurine, Choline Chloride, Salt, Magnesium Sulfate, Ferrous Sulfate, Thiamine Mononitrate (Vitamin B1), Vitamin E Supplement, Niacin (Vitamin B3), Zinc Oxide, Vitamin A Supplement, Biotin, Vitamin B12 Supplement, Manganous Oxide, Calcium Pantothenate, Copper Amino Acid Chelate, Riboflavin Supplement (Vitamin B2), Sodium Selenite, Pyridoxine Hydrochloride (Vitamin B6), Folic Acid, Potassium Iodide, Vitamin D3 Supplement.

Guaranteed Analysis

Protein: 16%

Fat: 2.6%

Fiber: 0%

Moisture: 79.8%

Ash: 1.6%

Carb: 0%

Dry Matter Analysis

Protein: 79.21%

Fat: 12.87%

Fiber: 0%

Ash: 8%

Carb: 0%

Low carbohydrate content
High moisture content
To our knowledge, Tiki Cat has never had a product recall
Supplemented with chelated minerals for optimal nutrient absorption
Doesn’t contain fillers, by-products, or artificial additives
Rich in species-appropriate animal protein
Free of plant-based thickeners

Contains a small amount of plant-based proteins

Weruva Cats in the Kitchen Pumpkin Lickin' Chicken in Pumpkin Soup Grain-Free Cat Food Pouches

81%

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Rating

Price 44%

Quality of Ingredients 76%

Customer Experience 82%

Nutrient Value 100%

Recall History 100%

Manufacturing Method 50%

Product info

Age Range:Adult Cost per day:$1.75

Company info

Company HQNatick, Massachusetts Parent companyWeruva Inc.

Overview

Give your cat a boost of protein and moisture with this broth-based wet cat food pouch. Formulated with fresh chicken as the primary ingredient, it satisfies your cat’s craving for animal protein. This recipe is grain-free and carrageenan-free but packed with moisture to support your cat’s hydration and digestion.

Ingredients

Chicken Broth, Chicken (Boneless, Skinless Breast), Pumpkin, Tapioca Starch, Sunflower Seed Oil, Calcium Lactate, Tricalcium Phosphate, Xanthan Gum, Choline Chloride, Zinc Sulfate, Taurine, Vitamin E Supplement, Ferrous Sulfate, Nicotinic Acid (Vitamin B3), Thiamine Mononitrate (Vitamin B1), Calcium Pantothenate, Vitamin A Supplement, Manganese Sulfate, Vitamin D3 Supplement, Copper Sulfate, Riboflavin Supplement (Vitamin B2), Pyridoxine Hydrochloride (Vitamin B6), Folic Acid, Potassium Iodide, Sodium Selenite, Biotin, Vitamin B12 Supplement.

Guaranteed Analysis

Protein: 9%

Fat: 1.4%

Fiber: 0.5%

Moisture: 85%

Ash: 2%

Carb: 2.1%

Dry Matter Analysis

Protein: 60%

Fat: 9.33%

Fiber: 3.33%

Ash: 13.33%

Carb: 14%

High moisture content
To our knowledge, Weruva has never had a product recall
Doesn’t contain fillers, by-products, or artificial additives
Rich in species-appropriate animal protein

Contains a small amount of plant-based proteins

Nulo Freestyle Turkey & Chicken Recipe Grain-Free Canned Cat & Kitten Food

79%

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Rating

Price 84%

Quality of Ingredients 82%

Customer Experience 76%

Nutrient Value 80%

Recall History 100%

Manufacturing Method 50%

Product info

Age Range:Adult Cost per day:$0.59

Company info

Company HQAustin, Texas Parent companyNulo Pet Food

Overview

Formulated to meet the nutritional needs of kittens as well as adult cats, this canned food formula contains numerous sources of animal protein. Fresh turkey and chicken top the list of ingredients, supported by turkey liver and tuna. Menhaden fish oil provides a rich source of omega-3 fatty acids with pumpkin for fiber to support your cat’s digestion.

Ingredients

Guaranteed Analysis

Protein: 11%

Fat: 6.5%

Fiber: 0.75%

Moisture: 78%

Ash: 0%

Carb: 3.75%

Dry Matter Analysis

Protein: 50%

Fat: 29.55%

Fiber: 3.41%

Ash: 8%

Carb: 17.05%

High moisture content
To our knowledge, Nulo has never had a product recall
Supplemented with chelated minerals for optimal nutrient absorption
Contains dried kelp as a natural source of essential nutrients
Doesn’t contain fillers, by-products, or artificial additives
Rich in species-appropriate animal protein
Affordable
A good source of omega-3 fatty acids

Low protein content
High in carbohydrates
Contains a small amount of plant-based proteins
Some cats may be allergic to fish

Health Extension Grain-Free Chicken & Pumpkin Recipe Canned Cat Food

79%

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Rating

Price 82%

Quality of Ingredients 73%

Customer Experience 57%

Nutrient Value 100%

Recall History 100%

Manufacturing Method 50%

Product info

Age Range:Adult Cost per day:$0.69

Company info

Company HQDeer Park, New York Parent companyHealth Extension Pet Care

Overview

Nourish your cat from the inside out with this protein-rich holistic cat food formula. This recipe features fresh chicken as the main ingredient and a rich source of species-appropriate animal protein. You’ll also find flavorful chicken broth and fiber-rich pumpkin on the list. This formula is very low in carbohydrates but contains all the protein your cat needs for a balanced diet.

Ingredients

Chicken, Chicken Broth, Pumpkin, Tapioca Starch, Pea Protein, Tricalcium Phosphate, GuarGum, Coconut Oil, Apple Cider Vinegar, Choline Chloride, Potassium Chloride, Magnesium Sulfate, Taurine, ZincProteinate, Disodium EDTA, Iron Proteinate, Vitamin E Supplement, Thiamine Mononitrate, Manganese Proteinate, Niacin, Vitamin A Supplement, Copper Proteinate, Calcium Iodate, Calcium Pantothenate, Sodium Selenite, Riboflavin Supplement, Pyridoxine Hydrochloride, Vitamin B12 Supplement, Folic Acid, Vitamin D3 Supplement, Biotin, Menadione Sodium Bisulfite Complex (Source of Vitamin K Activity).

Guaranteed Analysis

Protein: 10%

Fat: 2%

Fiber: 1%

Moisture: 84%

Ash: 3%

Carb: 0%

Dry Matter Analysis

Protein: 62.5%

Fat: 12.5%

Fiber: 6.25%

Ash: 18.75%

Carb: 0%

Rich in protein
Low carbohydrate content
High moisture content
To our knowledge, Health Extension has never had a product recall
Supplemented with chelated minerals for optimal nutrient absorption
Doesn’t contain fillers, by-products, or artificial additives
Affordable

Contains plant-based proteins

Fancy Feast Flaked Fish & Shrimp Feast Canned Cat Food

78%

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Rating

Price 85%

Quality of Ingredients 54%

Customer Experience 85%

Nutrient Value 100%

Recall History 100%

Manufacturing Method 50%

Product info

Age Range:Adult Cost per day:$0.58

Company info

Company HQSt. Louis, Missouri Parent companyNestlé Purina Petcare Co.

Overview

Budget-conscious cat owners appreciate the affordability of this Fancy Feast recipe and cats love the flavor. This wet food formula features ocean fish and shrimp cooked in a flavorful fish broth. There are no unnecessary plant ingredients or artificial additives. It’s a simple, well-priced cat food that delivers plenty of protein and moisture.

Ingredients

Ocean Fish, Fish Broth, Shrimp, Vegetable Oil, Tricalcium Phosphate, Guar Gum, Choline Chloride, Vitamins [Vitamin E Supplement, Niacin, Vitamin A Supplement, Thiamine Mononitrate, Calcium Pantothenate, Pyridoxine Hydrochloride, Riboflavin Supplement, Biotin, Vitamin B-12 Supplement, Menadione Sodium Bisulfite Complex (Vitamin K), Folic Acid, Vitamin D-3 Supplement], Minerals [Ferric Pyrophosphate, Zinc Sulfate, Copper Sulfate, Manganese Sulfate, Potassium Iodide], Sodium Nitrite (To Promote Color Retention). C-6901.

Guaranteed Analysis

Protein: 15%

Fat: 2%

Fiber: 1.5%

Moisture: 78%

Ash: 3%

Carb: 0.5%

Dry Matter Analysis

Protein: 68.18%

Fat: 9.09%

Fiber: 6.82%

Ash: 13.64%

Carb: 2.27%

Rich in protein
Low carbohydrate content
High moisture content
To our knowledge, Fancy Feast has never had a product recall
Doesn’t contain fillers, by-products, or artificial additives
Affordable

Contains a small amount of plant-based proteins
Contains artificial food dyes
Some cats may be allergic to fish

Hound & Gatos 98% Chicken & Liver Grain-Free Canned Cat Food

77%

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Rating

Price 83%

Quality of Ingredients 88%

Customer Experience 69%

Nutrient Value 69%

Recall History 100%

Manufacturing Method 50%

Product info

Age Range:Adult Cost per day:$0.65

Company info

Company HQNew York City, New York Parent companyHound & Gatos Pet Foods Corp

Overview

This canned food formula features fresh chicken as the primary ingredient with chicken liver for supplemental protein. Salmon oil provides a rich source of skin- and coat-supporting omega-3 fatty acids while chicken broth is a flavorful source of moisture. This recipe doesn’t contain any unnecessary plant ingredients, making it a very low-carb formula.

Ingredients

Chicken, Chicken Broth, Chicken Liver, Calcium Carbonate, Agar-Agar, Potassium Chloride, Choline Chloride, Salt, Taurine, Salmon Oil, Iron Proteinate, Zinc Proteinate, Manganese Proteinate, Copper Proteinate, Magnesium Proteinate, Sodium Selenite, Calcium Iodate, Thiamine Mononitrate, Niacin Supplement, Vitamin E Supplement, Calcium Pantothenate, Pyridoxine Hydrochloride, Riboflavin Supplement, Biotin, Vitamin A Supplement, Vitamin B12 Supplement, Vitamin D3 Supplement, Folic Acid.

Guaranteed Analysis

Protein: 10%

Fat: 9%

Fiber: 1%

Moisture: 77.5%

Ash: 2.5%

Carb: 0%

Dry Matter Analysis

Protein: 44.44%

Fat: 40%

Fiber: 4.44%

Ash: 11.11%

Carb: 0%

Low carbohydrate content
High moisture content
To our knowledge, Hound & Gatos has never had a product recall
Supplemented with chelated minerals for optimal nutrient absorption
Doesn’t contain fillers, by-products, or artificial additives
Rich in species-appropriate animal protein
Affordable
A good source of omega-3 fatty acids

Low protein content
Contains a small amount of plant-based proteins
Doesn’t receive consistently positive customer reviews
Some cats may be allergic to fish

Ziwi Peak Venison Recipe Canned Cat Food

76%

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Rating

Price 36%

Size Variety 83%

Quality of Ingredients 91%

Customer Experience 72%

Nutrient Value 71%

Recall History 100%

Manufacturing Method 50%

Product info

Age Range:Adult Cost per day:$2.09

Company info

Company HQMt. Maunganui, New Zealand Parent companyZiwi Ltd

Overview

Packed with 92% meat, organs, and New Zealand green mussels, this canned cat food formula is rich in species-appropriate animal protein. It is a single-protein formula made with fresh venison as the primary ingredient, making it a great option for cats with food allergies or sensitivities. This recipe is rich in moisture to support hydration and is completely free from fillers, by-products, and artificial additives.

Ingredients

Venison, Water Sufficient for Processing, Venison Tripe, Venison Liver, Chickpeas, Venison Lung, Venison Heart, Venison Kidney, New Zealand Green Mussel, Venison Bone, DL-Methionine, Dried Kelp, Minerals (Magnesium Sulfate, Zinc Amino Acid Complex, Manganese Amino Acid Complex, Copper Amino Acid Complex), Taurine, Vitamins (Vitamin E Supplement, Thiamine Mononitrate, Pyridoxine Hydrochloride, Vitamin D3 Supplement, Folic Acid).

Guaranteed Analysis

Protein: 10%

Fat: 4%

Fiber: 2%

Moisture: 78%

Ash: 3%

Carb: 3%

Dry Matter Analysis

Protein: 45.45%

Fat: 18.18%

Fiber: 9.09%

Ash: 13.64%

Carb: 13.64%

High moisture content
To our knowledge, Ziwi has never had a product recall
Contains dried kelp as a natural source of essential nutrients
Green-lipped mussel is added as a source of glucosamine and chondroitin
Doesn’t contain fillers, by-products, or artificial additives
Rich in species-appropriate animal protein
Free of plant-based thickeners

Low protein content
Contains a small amount of plant-based proteins
Doesn’t receive consistently positive customer reviews

Dr. Elsey's cleanprotein Grain-Free Turkey Recipe Wet Cat Food

75%

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Rating

Price 70%

Quality of Ingredients 81%

Customer Experience 58%

Nutrient Value 80%

Recall History 100%

Manufacturing Method 50%

Product info

Age Range:Adult Cost per day:$1.02

Company info

Company HQEnglewood, Colorado Parent companyDr. Elsey's

Overview

Inspired by the high protein levels found in wild prey, this wet cat food formula features fresh turkey as the main ingredient. This formula contains supplemental protein in the form of turkey liver and dried egg which salmon oil as a rich source of omega-3 fatty acids. It also contains nutrient-rich New Zealand green mussels which provide a natural source of joint-supporting glucosamine and chondroitin.

Ingredients

Turkey, Turkey Broth, Turkey Liver, Egg Product, Natural Flavor, Potassium Chloride, Agar-Agar, Barley Grass, Choline Chloride, Salt, Magnesium Proteinate, Taurine, Vitamins (Thiamine Mononitrate, Vitamin E Supplement, Niacin Supplement, Vitamin A Supplement, D-Calcium Pantothenate, Pyridoxine Hydrochlorine, Riboflavin Supplement, Biotin, Vitamin B12 Supplement, Folic Acid, Vitamin D3 Supplement), Salmon Oil, Minerals (Zinc Proteinate, Iron Proteinate, Calcium Carbonate, Copper Proteinate, Sodium Selenite, Calcium Iodate), Green Lipped Mussel.

Guaranteed Analysis

Protein: 11%

Fat: 9%

Fiber: 1.5%

Moisture: 78%

Ash: 0%

Carb: 0.5%

Dry Matter Analysis

Protein: 50%

Fat: 40.91%

Fiber: 6.82%

Ash: 8%

Carb: 2.27%

Low carbohydrate content
High moisture content
To our knowledge, Dr. Elsey's has never had a product recall
Supplemented with chelated minerals for optimal nutrient absorption
Doesn’t contain fillers, by-products, or artificial additives
Rich in species-appropriate animal protein
A good source of omega-3 fatty acids

Low protein content
Contains a small amount of plant-based proteins
Some cats may be allergic to fish

Wellness Complete Health Pate Chicken Entree Grain-Free Canned Cat Food

71%

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Rating

Price 76%

Size Variety 100%

Quality of Ingredients 75%

Customer Experience 77%

Nutrient Value 75%

Recall History 35%

Manufacturing Method 50%

Product info

Age Range:Adult Cost per day:$0.90

Company info

Company HQTewksbury, Massachusetts Parent companyWellPet LLC

Overview

With fresh chicken as the first ingredient, this canned cat food is an excellent source of protein for your cat. This recipe is packed with antioxidants, omega fatty acids, and essential nutrients to deliver balanced nutrition. Plus, as a wet cat food, it contains the moisture your cat needs for optimal hydration and it’s very low in carbohydrates.

Ingredients

Chicken, Chicken Liver, Turkey, Chicken Broth, Carrots, Natural Flavor, Guar Gum, Cranberries, Ground Flaxseed, Potassium Chloride, Taurine, Salt, Cassia Gum, Xanthan Gum, Choline Chloride, Iron Proteinate, Zinc Proteinate, Beta Carotene, Vitamin E Supplement, Thiamine Mononitrate, Copper Proteinate, Manganese Proteinate, Sodium Selenite, Niacin Supplement, d-Calcium Pantothenate, Pyridoxine Hydrochloride, Riboflavin Supplement, Vitamin A Supplement, Biotin, Potassium Iodide, Vitamin D3 Supplement, Vitamin B12 Supplement, Folic Acid.

Guaranteed Analysis

Protein: 10.5%

Fat: 7%

Fiber: 1%

Moisture: 78%

Ash: 0%

Carb: 3.5%

Dry Matter Analysis

Protein: 47.73%

Fat: 31.82%

Fiber: 4.55%

Ash: 8%

Carb: 15.91%

High moisture content
Supplemented with chelated minerals for optimal nutrient absorption
Contains health promoting ground flaxseed for fiber
Doesn’t contain fillers, by-products, or artificial additives
Rich in species-appropriate animal protein
Affordable

Low protein content
Contains a small amount of plant-based proteins
The brand has had multiple recalls over recent years

Price Vs Overall Score Comparison

Why Should You Trust Us

As dog parents ourselves, we understand how hard it is to choose the right dry dog food with so many recipes available on the market in 2024. So how do you navigate past marketing claims to get real facts?

That’s where we come in. With over 2773 recipe reviews, Pet Food Sherpa is the largest database for dog food recipe reviews overseen by a vet nutrition specialist.

Our team has analyzed over 1907 wet cat foods and selected the 10 best recipes, we then used our pet food algorithm to determine the scores for each recipe.

You should keep in mind that no single wet cat food is right for all cats. Instead, use our list as a research tool to help you make a better-informed decision on your cat’s diet.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. How much wet food should I feed my cat?

How much you feed your cat depends on numerous factors. Kittens generally require more calories than adult cats, as do cats who are pregnant or lactating. If your cat is very active, he may need more food than a cat who is largely sedentary or one who needs to lose some weight.

Wet cat food tends to be higher in protein than dry food and calorie content can vary from one recipe to another. Pate-style wet foods are typically more calorie-dense than other wet foods, so feeding amounts may differ depending which formula you feed your cat. The calorie content will be listed on the can along with some feeding recommendations according to weight and age.

Generally speaking, cats need between 2.5 and 3 ounces of wet food per 5 pounds of body weight per day. The average housecat weighs around 9 pounds, so a 5.5-ounce can of wet food might be just right.

The best thing you can do is choose a wet cat food formulated for your cat’s life stage and follow the feeding recommendations on the label. When you start using a new food, pay attention to your cat’s weight and body condition for the next month or so. If he seems to be gaining too much weight, you may need to scale back his portions. If he’s losing weight or appears less energetic than usual, he may need a larger portion.

2. How often should I feed my cat wet food?

Most cats do well with two meals per day. That being said, kittens and cats who are very active may require a third meal to sustain their metabolisms.

If you’re not sure how much to feed your cat or how often, you can always try free feeding. This involves providing your cat with an unmeasured amount of food and refilling the bowl as it empties. Most cats are able to self-regulate, eating as much as they need without too much extra. If you go this route, however, you’ll need to keep an eye on your cat and switch to portioned meals if he overeats.

Keep in mind that kittens, as a general rule, need to eat more often than adult cats. Free feeding may work better for kittens than adults, especially if you’re not home all day to provide scheduled meals.

3. How long can wet cat food sit out?

Wet canned food is an extremely shelf-stable option – even more so than dry food. While unopened packages of dry food can last 12 to 18 months, unopened canned food can last 2 years or more.

While unopened cans of wet cat food can be stored for long periods of time, opened cans are another story. Wet cat food is generally made without added preservatives – it’s the canning process itself that creates an air-tight seal to protect the food. Once the can is opened and the product is
exposed to the air, it needs to be refrigerated to keep it fresh.

An opened can of cat food can safely be refrigerated for 3 to 5 days, though it should optimally be used within 24 hours. If you spoon wet cat food into your cat’s bowl, it can sit out for no more than 4 hours. After that, it should be discarded entirely.

4. Is wet or dry food better for cats?

In the debate between wet cat food and dry, there’s no clear winner because there are many factors to consider. Dry cat food is preferred by many cat owners because it is affordable and convenient to feed and store, but wet cat food provides some nutritional benefits that make it preferable to many cats.

While there is a theory that dry cat food is better for a cat’s teeth than wet food, there’s no sound evidence to support it. Cats don’t tend to chew their food much before swallowing, so the crunchy texture of dry food is unlikely to make much difference. In fact, some cats have a hard time with the crunchy texture of the food. This is particularly true of older cats and cats with dental issues.

In addition to having a softer texture, wet food is often more palatable to cats because it has a stronger aroma. That being said, dry foods are often sprayed with flavoring to make them more appealing to cats, but the food still won’t be as fresh as a can opened that same day.

Another benefit wet food has over dry food is that it is generally higher in protein and moisture. Dry food requires the use of starches and other binders to achieve the right consistency for forming the product into kibbles. Wet food typically uses fewer carbohydrate ingredients, and the moisture content is usually between 75% and 80% versus an average of 10%.

If you’re looking for the most species-appropriate diet for your cat, wet food is the better option for its higher protein and moisture content. If you’re more concerned about convenience and affordability, however, a high-quality dry food might be better for you.

5. Can you mix wet and dry cat food?

Mixing wet cat food with dry cat food is a great option for cats. Not only can it provide nutritional benefits for your cat, but it can be convenient and cost-effective for you.

Dry cat food is generally easier to portion and more affordable than wet food, but it doesn’t have the moisture your cat needs and it can be higher in carbohydrates. If a wet cat food diet is out of your budget or simply not practical for your lifestyle, you might find that a mixture of the two works best. Adding small amounts of high-quality wet food to a dry food diet can boost your cat’s nutrition and provide some variety without significantly affecting your budget.

If you’re going to give your cat a combination of wet and dry cat food, think about how much you’re going to offer of each type. Will you go with a 50/50 blend or use the wet food more supplementally with a 25/75 split?

It’s really up to you how much you choose to offer of each type of food but be mindful of your cat’s caloric intake. Calorie content varies greatly between cat food recipes and between types of cat food, so familiarize yourself with the feeding recommendations for both foods before you begin.

To feed your cat a 50/50 split, simply cut the daily feeding recommendation for each food in half.

When it comes to actually offering your cat a blended diet of dry and wet cat food, there are plenty of options. You can serve one food at alternating meals, serve them side-by-side, spoon the wet food over the dry food, or mix the two together.

The post 10 Best Wet Cat Food appeared first on Pet Food Sherpa.

10 Best Dry Dog Foods

Kate Barrington — Thu, 06 Jan 2022 15:24:34 +0000

1. The Best Dry Dog Formulas in 2024
2. Price Vs Overall Score Comparison
3. Why Should You Trust Us
4. Frequently Asked Questions

A healthy diet for dogs is rich in protein and healthy fats to support lean muscle and provide energy. The best dry dog food contains animal-based sources of protein and fat with limited carbohydrate content. It should be moderate in calorie content to help your dog stay fit and healthy.

Dry dog food tends to be higher in carbs than wet dog food, but you can certainly find recipes that focus on animal-based ingredients. A great dry dog food is made with whole food ingredients, focused on animal protein, and free from artificial additives.

The Best Dry Dog Formulas in 2024

Ziwi Peak Lamb Grain-Free Air-Dried Dog Food

84%

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Rating

Price 42%

Size Variety 100%

Quality of Ingredients 93%

Customer Experience 89%

Nutrient Value 61%

Recall History 100%

Manufacturing Method 90%

Product info

Age Range:Adult Cost per day:$0.64

Company info

Company HQMt. Maunganui, New Zealand Parent companyZiwi Ltd

Overview

If you’re looking for a protein-packed alternative to traditional dry food, this air-dried dog food from Ziwi Peak is an excellent choice. Gently air-dried to preserve nutrition, this recipe features 96% meat, organs, bone, and New Zealand mussels. This recipe is a single-source protein formula made with lamb and an assortment of lamb-derived organ meats. It doesn’t contain any added plant ingredients aside from chicory inulin and parsley.

Ingredients

Lamb, Lamb Heart, Lamb Tripe, Lamb Liver, Lamb Kidney, Lamb Lung, New Zealand Green Mussel, Lamb Bone, Lecithin, Inulin from Chicory, Dried Kelp, Minerals (Dipotassium Phosphate, Magnesium Sulfate, Zinc Amino Acid Complex, Copper Amino Acid Complex, Iron Amino Acid Complex, Manganese Amino Acid Complex, Selenium Yeast), Salt, Parsley, Preservative (Citric Acid, Mixed Tocopherols), Vitamins (Vitamin E Supplement, Thiamine Mononitrate, Vitamin D3 Supplement, Folic Acid).

Guaranteed Analysis

Protein: 35%

Fat: 33%

Fiber: 2%

Moisture: 14%

Ash: 12%

Carb: 4%

Dry Matter Analysis

Protein: 40.7%

Fat: 38.37%

Fiber: 2.33%

Ash: 13.95%

Carb: 4.65%

Single-protein rich in meat, organs, and bone
Gently air-dried to preserve nutrition
Limited number of added plant ingredients

Doesn’t provide much hydration
Very expensive

ORIJEN Original Grain-Free Dry Dog Food

80%

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Rating

Price 64%

Size Variety 100%

Quality of Ingredients 89%

Customer Experience 90%

Nutrient Value 66%

Recall History 100%

Manufacturing Method 40%

Product info

Age Range:Adult Cost per day:$0.17

Company info

Company HQAlberta, Canada Parent companyChampion Petfoods

Overview

Packed with 85% premium animal ingredients, this Orijen dog food recipe is formulated based on a WholePrey diet. The top five ingredients are fresh or raw animal proteins. In this case, you’ll find chicken, turkey, flounder, whole mackerel, and chicken liver at the top of the ingredients list. This formula is supplemented with beans and legumes like red lentils and pinto beans as carbohydrate sources of energy and essential nutrients. Dried fermentation products provide probiotic digestive support and fresh fruits and veggies help support balanced nutrition.

Ingredients

Deboned Chicken, Deboned Turkey, Atlantic Flounder, Whole Eggs, Whole Atlantic Mackerel, Chicken Liver, Turkey Liver, Chicken Heart, Turkey Heart, Whole Atlantic Herring, Dehydrated Chicken, Dehydrated Turkey, Dehydrated Mackerel, Dehydrated Chicken Liver, Dehydrated Egg, Whole Red Lentils, Whole Pinto Beans, Whole Green Peas, Chicken Necks, Chicken Kidney, Chicken Fat, Lentil Fiber, Pollock Oil, Whole Green Lentils, Whole Navy Beans, Natural Chicken Flavor, Whole Chickpeas, Ground Chicken Bone, Chicken Cartilage, Whole Pumpkin, Whole Butternut Squash, Mixed Tocopherols (Preservative), Sea Salt, Freeze-Dried Chicken Liver, Dried Kelp, Zinc Proteinate, Kale, Spinach, Mustard Greens, Collard Greens, Turnip Greens, Whole Carrots, Whole Apples, Whole Pears, Pumpkin Seeds, Sunflower Seeds, Chicory Root, Turmeric, Sarsaparilla Root, Althea Root, Rosehips, Juniper Berries, Dried Lactobacillus Acidophilus Fermentation Product, Dried Bifidobacterium Animalis Fermentation Product, Dried Lactobacillus Casei Fermentation Product.

Guaranteed Analysis

Protein: 38%

Fat: 18%

Fiber: 4%

Moisture: 12%

Ash: 0%

Carb: 28%

Dry Matter Analysis

Protein: 43.18%

Fat: 20.45%

Fiber: 4.55%

Ash: 8%

Carb: 31.82%

Packed with quality protein from numerous animal sources
Contains fresh meat and organ meats
Free from artificial additives, fillers, and by-products

Doesn’t provide much hydration
Very expensive
Significant carbohydrate content

Instinct Original Grain-Free Recipe with Real Chicken Freeze-Dried Raw Coated Dry Cat Food

77%

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Rating

Price 75%

Size Variety 100%

Quality of Ingredients 73%

Customer Experience 87%

Nutrient Value 70%

Recall History 100%

Manufacturing Method 40%

Product info

Age Range:Adult Cost per day:$0.15

Company info

Company HQLincoln, Nebraska Parent companyM.I. Industries

Overview

With cage-free chicken as the first ingredient, this dry food formula is an excellent source of protein for your dog. It contains 70% animal ingredients and healthy fats like chicken meal, chicken fat, and herring meal. Your dog will also enjoy a boost of nutrition and flavor from freeze-dried chicken heart. This recipe is free from fillers like corn, wheat, and soy as well as artificial additives like colors, flavors, and preservatives. Probiotics are added as well to provide digestive support.

Ingredients

Chicken, Chicken Meal, Turkey Meal, Menhaden Fish Meal, Peas, Chicken Fat (preserved with Mixed Tocopherols and Citric Acid), Tapioca, Natural Flavor, Dried Tomato Pomace, Montmorillonite Clay, Carrots, Apples, Cranberries, Choline Chloride, Salt, Vitamins (Vitamin E Supplement, L-Ascorbyl-2-Polyphosphate, Niacin Supplement, Vitamin A Supplement, Thiamine Mononitrate, d-Calcium Pantothenate, Riboflavin Supplement, Pyridoxine Hydrochloride, Vitamin B12 Supplement, Folic Acid, Vitamin D3 Supplement, Biotin), Minerals (Zinc Proteinate, Iron Proteinate, Copper Proteinate, Manganese Proteinate, Sodium Selenite, Ethylenediamine Dihydriodide), Taurine, Freeze Dried Chicken, Freeze Dried Chicken Liver, Pumpkinseeds, Freeze Dried Chicken Heart, Dried Bacillus Coagulans Fermentation Product, Rosemary Extract.

Guaranteed Analysis

Protein: 41%

Fat: 21%

Fiber: 3%

Moisture: 9%

Ash: 0%

Carb: 26%

Dry Matter Analysis

Protein: 45.05%

Fat: 23.08%

Fiber: 3.3%

Ash: 8%

Carb: 28.57%

Cage-free chicken as the first ingredient
Rich in animal protein and healthy fats
Limited number of plant-based ingredients

Doesn’t provide hydration
Higher in calories than average

Nature's Logic Canine Chicken Meal Feast All Life Stages Dry Dog Food

72%

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Rating

Price 59%

Size Variety 95%

Quality of Ingredients 70%

Customer Experience 84%

Nutrient Value 59%

Recall History 100%

Manufacturing Method 40%

Product info

Age Range:Adult Cost per day:$0.20

Company info

Company HQLincoln, Nebraska Parent companyVisioCap LLC

Overview

Chicken meal provides a concentrated source of protein to start this recipe with chicken liver and dried egg for supplemental protein. Chicken fat is the primary source of added fat and a nutritious addition to the formula, balanced with omega fatty acids from the pumpkin seed and almonds. This dry dog food formula is 100% natural, formulated without the need for synthetic vitamins, minerals, or amino acids. It provides a balanced source of nutrition with probiotics for digestive support.

Ingredients

Chicken Meal, Millet, Chicken Fat (preserved with Mixed Tocopherols), Pumpkin Seed, Yeast Culture, Spray Dried Chicken Liver, Dried Egg Product, Alfalfa Nutrient Concentrate, Montmorillonite Clay, Dried Kelp, Spray Dried Porcine Plasma, Dried Tomato, Almonds, Dried Chicory Root, Dried Carrot, Dried Apple, Menhaden Fish Meal, Dried Pumpkin, Dried Apricot, Dried Blueberry, Dried Spinach, Dried Broccoli, Dried Cranberry, Parsley, Dried Artichoke, Rosemary, Dried Mushroom, Dried Lactobacillus acidophilus Fermentation Product, Dried Lactobacillus casei Fermentation Product, Dried Bifidobacterium bifidium Fermentation Product, Dried Enterococcus faecium Fermentation Product, Dried Bacillus coagulans Fermentation Product, Dried Pineapple Extract, Dried Aspergillus niger Fermentation Extract, Dried Aspergillus oryzae Fermentation Extract, Dried Trichoderma longibrachiatum Fermentation Extract

Guaranteed Analysis

Protein: 36%

Fat: 15%

Fiber: 5%

Moisture: 9%

Ash: 0%

Carb: 35%

Dry Matter Analysis

Protein: 39.56%

Fat: 16.48%

Fiber: 5.49%

Ash: 8%

Carb: 38.46%

Rich in animal-based protein from chicken and egg
Formulated without the use of synthetic supplements
Supplemented with probiotics for digestive support

Very expensive
Doesn’t provide hydration

CANIDAE Grain-Free PURE Limited Ingredient Salmon & Sweet Potato Recipe Dry Dog Food

68%

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Rating

Price 74%

Size Variety 100%

Quality of Ingredients 65%

Customer Experience 90%

Nutrient Value 51%

Recall History 71%

Manufacturing Method 40%

Product info

Age Range:Adult Cost per day:$0.13

Company info

Company HQNorco, California Parent companyCanidae Corporation

Overview

Dogs with food allergies or sensitive stomachs may require a simple diet of high-quality ingredients. This limited ingredient salmon formula from Canidae is a great choice because it contains just 10 key ingredients with plenty of protein from salmon, salmon meal, and menhaden fish meal. This formula is easily digestible for its whole-food ingredients, but probiotics are added to help support your dog’s digestion. Overall, it’s high in protein with moderate fat content.

Ingredients

Salmon, Salmon Meal, Menhaden Fish Meal, Sweet Potatoes, Peas, Canola Oil, Suncured Alfalfa, Potatoes, Natural Flavor, Taurine, Minerals (Iron Proteinate, Zinc Proteinate, Copper Proteinate, Ferrous Sulfate, Zinc Sulfate, Copper Sulfate, Potassium Iodide, Manganese Proteinate, Manganous Oxide, Manganese Sulfate, Sodium Selenite), Vitamins (Vitamin E Supplement, Thiamine Mononitrate, Ascorbic Acid, Vitamin A Supplement, Biotin, Niacin, Calcium Pantothenate, Pyridoxine Hydrochloride (Vitamin B6), Vitamin B12 Supplement, Riboflavin, Vitamin D3 Supplement, Folic Acid), Choline Chloride, Mixed Tocopherols (A Preservative), Dried Enterococcus Faecium Fermentation Product, Dried Lactobacillus Acidophilus Fermentation Product, Dried Lactobacillus Casei Fermentation Product, Dried Lactobacillus Plantarum Fermentation Product, Dried Trichoderma Longibrachiatum Fermentation Extract. Contains A Source Of Live (Viable) Naturally Occurring Microorganisms.

Guaranteed Analysis

Protein: 32%

Fat: 18%

Fiber: 4%

Moisture: 10%

Ash: 0%

Carb: 36%

Dry Matter Analysis

Protein: 35.56%

Fat: 20%

Fiber: 4.44%

Ash: 8%

Carb: 40%

Made with just 10 easily digestible ingredients
Rich in protein from high-quality animal sources
Doesn’t contain any fillers or artificial additives

Contains several starchy ingredients
Doesn’t provide hydration

Taste of the Wild High Prairie Grain-Free Dry Dog Food

66%

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Rating

Price 79%

Size Variety 100%

Quality of Ingredients 76%

Customer Experience 90%

Nutrient Value 51%

Recall History 26%

Manufacturing Method 40%

Product info

Age Range:Adult Cost per day:$0.11

Company info

Company HQMeta, Missouri Parent companyDiamond Pet Foods, Inc.

Overview

Packed with numerous sources of animal protein, this dry food formula is rich in flavor and nutrition. Buffalo, lamb meal, and chicken meal are the primary protein sources, supplemented by roasted bison, roasted venison, and beef. This recipe also contains egg, ocean fish meal, and two sources of concentrated plant protein: pea protein and potato protein. The majority of the ingredients in this recipe are animal-based, though there are a few plant ingredients. Probiotics provide digestive support and synthetic vitamins and minerals help to ensure nutritional balance.

Ingredients

Water Buffalo, Lamb Meal, Chicken Meal, Sweet Potatoes, Peas, Potatoes, Chicken Fat (Preserved With Mixed Tocopherols), Egg Product, Roasted Bison, Roasted Venison, Beef, Natural Flavor, Tomato Pomace, Potato Protein, Pea Protein, Ocean Fish Meal, Salt, Choline Chloride, Taurine, Dried Chicory Root, Tomatoes, Blueberries, Raspberries, Yucca Schidigera Extract, Dried Lactobacillus Plantarum Fermentation Product, Dried Bacillus Subtilis Fermentation Product, Dried Lactobacillus Acidophilus Fermentation Product, Dried Enterococcus Faecium Fermentation Product, Dried Bifidobacterium Animalis Fermentation Product, Vitamin E Supplement, Iron Proteinate, Zinc Proteinate, Copper Proteinate, Ferrous Sulfate, Zinc Sulfate, Copper Sulfate, Potassium Iodide, Thiamine Mononitrate, Manganese Proteinate, Manganous Oxide, Ascorbic Acid, Vitamin A Supplement, Biotin, Niacin, Calcium Pantothenate, Manganese Sulfate, Sodium Selenite, Pyridoxine Hydrochloride, Vitamin B12 Supplement, Riboflavin, Vitamin D Supplement, Folic Acid. Contains A Source Of Live (Viable), Naturally Occurring Microorganisms.

Guaranteed Analysis

Protein: 32%

Fat: 18%

Fiber: 4%

Moisture: 10%

Ash: 0%

Carb: 36%

Dry Matter Analysis

Protein: 35.56%

Fat: 20%

Fiber: 4.44%

Ash: 8%

Carb: 40%

Packed with flavorful sources of animal protein
Supplemented with probiotics for digestive support
Doesn’t contain fillers, by-products, or artificial additives

Contains some concentrated plant proteins
Contains several starchy ingredients like potatoes and peas
Doesn’t provide hydration

Merrick Real Texas Beef + Sweet Potato Recipe Grain-Free Adult Dry Dog Food

65%

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Rating

Price 65%

Size Variety 100%

Quality of Ingredients 70%

Customer Experience 85%

Nutrient Value 56%

Recall History 32%

Manufacturing Method 40%

Product info

Age Range:Adult Cost per day:$0.17

Company info

Company HQAmarillo, Texas Parent companyNestlé Purina PetCare Company

Overview

If your dog craves real beef flavor, he’ll find it in this Real Texas Beef + Sweet Potato recipe from Merrick. With deboned beef as the main ingredient, this formula is packed with protein. Lamb meal, salmon meal, and whitefish meal provide supplemental sources of protein as well. This recipe is supplemented with fresh fruits and veggies like apples and sweet potatoes. It’s also packed with omega-3 fatty acids from salmon oil and balanced with omega-6s from sunflower oil.

Ingredients

Deboned Beef, Lamb Meal, Salmon Meal, Sweet Potatoes, Potatoes, Peas, Potato Protein, Pork Fat, Natural Flavor, Whitefish Meal, Pea Protein, Sunflower Oil, Beef Liver, Flaxseed, Potassium Chloride, Salt, Apples, Blueberries, Organic Dehydrated Alfalfa Meal, Choline Chloride, Salmon Oil, Minerals (Iron Amino Acid Complex, Zinc Amino Acid Complex, Zinc Sulfate, Sodium Selenite, Manganese Amino Acid Complex, Copper Amino Acid Complex, Copper Sulfate, Potassium Iodide, Cobalt Proteinate, Cobalt Carbonate), Taurine, Yucca Schidigera Extract, Vitamins (Vitamin E Supplement, Vitamin B12 Supplement, Riboflavin Supplement, Vitamin A Acetate, d-Calcium Pantothenate, Thiamine Mononitrate, Folic Acid, Niacin, Biotin, Pyridoxine Hydrochloride, Vitamin D3 Supplement) Mixed Tocopherols for freshness, Citric Acid for freshness, Dried Lactobacillus plantarum Fermentation Product, Dried Lactobacillus casei Fermentation Product, Dried Enterococcus faecium Fermentation Product, Dried Lactobacillus acidophilus Fermentation Product.

Guaranteed Analysis

Protein: 34%

Fat: 15%

Fiber: 3.5%

Moisture: 11%

Ash: 0%

Carb: 36.5%

Dry Matter Analysis

Protein: 38.2%

Fat: 16.85%

Fiber: 3.93%

Ash: 8%

Carb: 41.01%

Fresh beef as the main ingredient
Several supplemental sources of animal protein
Probiotics for digestive support

Contains some added plant protein concentrate
Doesn’t provide hydration

Diamond Naturals Chicken & Rice Formula All Life Stages Dry Dog Food

62%

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Rating

Price 93%

Size Variety 100%

Quality of Ingredients 73%

Customer Experience 85%

Nutrient Value 38%

Recall History 25%

Manufacturing Method 40%

Product info

Age Range:Adult Cost per day:$0.04

Company info

Company HQMeta, Missouri Parent companySchell & Kampeter, Inc.

Overview

Formulated for all life stages, this Diamond Naturals formula is made in the USA with high-quality ingredients like cage-free chicken and chicken meal. Whole grain brown rice and cracked pearled barley provide nutritious carbohydrate sources for energy and nutrients while chicken fat delivers a healthy dose of essential fatty acids. This dry food formula contains plenty of fiber as well as probiotics to support your dog’s healthy digestion as well as omega-3 fatty acids for skin and coat health.

Ingredients

Chicken, Chicken Meal, Whole Grain Brown Rice, Cracked Pearled Barley, Chicken Fat (Preserved With Mixed Tocopherols), Grain Sorghum, Dried Yeast, Dried Beet Pulp, Egg Product, Natural Flavor, Flaxseed, Salmon Oil (Source Of Dha), Potassium Chloride, Salt, Dl-Methionine, Choline Chloride, Dried Chicory Root, Kale, Chia Seed, Pumpkin, Blueberries, Oranges, Quinoa, Dried Kelp, Coconut, Spinach, Carrots, Papaya, Yucca Schidigera Extract, Dried Lactobacillus Plantarum Fermentation Product, Dried Bacillus Subtilis Fermentation Product, Dried Lactobacillus Acidophilus Fermentation Product, Dried Enterococcus Faecium Fermentation Product, Dried Bifidobacterium Animalis Fermentation Product, Vitamin E Supplement, Beta Carotene, Iron Proteinate, Zinc Proteinate, Copper Proteinate, Ferrous Sulfate, Zinc Sulfate, Copper Sulfate, Potassium Iodide, Thiamine Mononitrate, Manganese Proteinate, Manganous Oxide, Ascorbic Acid, Vitamin A Supplement, Biotin, Niacin, Calcium Pantothenate, Manganese Sulfate, Sodium Selenite, Pyridoxine Hydrochloride, Vitamin B12 Supplement, Riboflavin, Vitamin D Supplement, Folic Acid. Contains A Source Of Live (Viable), Naturally Occurring Microorganisms.

Guaranteed Analysis

Protein: 26%

Fat: 16%

Fiber: 2.5%

Moisture: 10%

Ash: 0%

Carb: 45.5%

Dry Matter Analysis

Protein: 28.89%

Fat: 17.78%

Fiber: 2.78%

Ash: 8%

Carb: 50.56%

Chicken and chicken meal as the top two ingredients
Rich in omega-3 fatty acids for skin and coat health
Free from fillers and artificial additives

Doesn’t provide hydration
Very high carbohydrate content

Nutro Ultra Adult Dry Dog Food

62%

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Rating

Price 75%

Size Variety 100%

Quality of Ingredients 67%

Customer Experience 92%

Nutrient Value 36%

Recall History 42%

Manufacturing Method 40%

Product info

Age Range:Adult Cost per day:$0.13

Company info

Company HQFranklin, Tennessee Parent companyNutro Company, Inc

Overview

Supplemented with superfoods and a trio of premium animal proteins, this recipe from Nutro is a great choice. Fresh chicken is the primary ingredient, followed by chicken meal and later supplemented by lamb meal and salmon meal. Chicken fat provides a nutritious source of essential fatty acids. This recipe is packed with nutritious ingredients including whole brown rice and whole grain oatmeal. Dried fruits and veggies provide nutritional support with synthetic supplements to ensure optimal nutritional balance.

Ingredients

Chicken, Chicken Meal, Whole Brown Rice, Brewers Rice, Rice Bran, Lamb Meal, Natural Flavor, Salmon Meal, Chicken Fat (preserved with Mixed Tocopherols), Sunflower Oil (preserved with Mixed Tocopherols), Whole Grain Oatmeal, Whole Flaxseed, Dried Plain Beet Pulp, Potassium Chloride, Choline Chloride, DL-Methionine, Salt, Mixed Tocopherols and Citric Acid (preservatives), Dried Coconut, Whole Chia Seed, Dried Egg Product, Tomato Pomace, Dried Kale, Dried Pumpkin, Dried Spinach, Dried Blueberries, Dried Apples, Dried Carrots, Zinc Sulfate, Niacin Supplement, Biotin, Vitamin E Supplement, Iron Amino Acid Chelate, D-Calcium Pantothenate, Riboflavin Supplement (Vitamin B2), Selenium Yeast, Vitamin B12 Supplement, Copper Amino Acid Chelate, Pyridoxine Hydrochloride (Vitamin B6), Manganese Amino Acid Chelate, Vitamin A Supplement, Thiamine Mononitrate (Vitamin B1), Vitamin D3 Supplement, Folic Acid, Rosemary Extract.

Guaranteed Analysis

Protein: 25%

Fat: 14%

Fiber: 4%

Moisture: 10%

Ash: 0%

Carb: 47%

Dry Matter Analysis

Protein: 27.78%

Fat: 15.56%

Fiber: 4.44%

Ash: 8%

Carb: 52.22%

Three high-quality sources of animal protein
Rich in omega-3s and essential fatty acids
Free from by-products, fillers, and artificial additives

Doesn’t provide hydration
High carbohydrate content

Wellness Complete Health Adult Deboned Chicken & Oatmeal Recipe Dry Dog Food

60%

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Rating

Price 80%

Size Variety 100%

Quality of Ingredients 67%

Customer Experience 85%

Nutrient Value 33%

Recall History 35%

Manufacturing Method 40%

Product info

Age Range:Adult Cost per day:$0.10

Company info

Company HQTewksbury, Massachusetts Parent companyWellPet LLC

Overview

Formulated to support multiple aspects of your dog’s health and wellness, this dry food formula from Wellness features deboned chicken as the primary protein. Chicken meal provides a concentrated source of supplemental protein while chicken fat delivers essential fatty acids. This recipe contains nutrient-rich carbohydrates like oatmeal and ground brown rice with fresh veggies like tomatoes and carrots. It is also supplemented with probiotics for digestive support.

Ingredients

Deboned Chicken, Chicken Meal, Oatmeal, Ground Barley, Peas, Ground Brown Rice, Chicken Fat, Tomato Pomace, Ground Flaxseed, Tomatoes, Carrots, Natural Chicken Flavor, Potassium Chloride, Choline Chloride, Spinach, Vitamin E Supplement, Taurine, Zinc Proteinate, Mixed Tocopherols added to preserve freshness, Sweet Potatoes, Apples, Blueberries, Zinc Sulfate, Calcium Carbonate, Niacin, Ferrous Sulfate, Iron Proteinate, Vitamin A Supplement, Glucosamine Hydrochloride, Chondroitin Sulfate, Ascorbic Acid (Vitamin C), Copper Sulfate, Thiamine Mononitrate, Copper Proteinate, Chicory Root Extract, Manganese Proteinate, Manganese Sulfate, d-Calcium Pantothenate, Sodium Selenite, Pyridoxine Hydrochloride, Riboflavin, Yucca Schidigera Extract, Garlic Powder, Vitamin D3 Supplement, Biotin, Calcium Iodate, Vitamin B12 Supplement, Folic Acid, Dried Lactobacillus plantarum Fermentation Product, Dried Enterococcus faecium Fermentation Product, Dried Lactobacillus casei Fermentation Product, Dried Lactobacillus acidophilus Fermentation Product, Rosemary Extract, Green Tea Extract, Spearmint Extract. This is a naturally preserved product.

Guaranteed Analysis

Protein: 24%

Fat: 12%

Fiber: 4%

Moisture: 10%

Ash: 0%

Carb: 50%

Dry Matter Analysis

Protein: 26.67%

Fat: 13.33%

Fiber: 4.44%

Ash: 8%

Carb: 55.56%

Rich in species-appropriate animal protein
No artificial additives or fillers
Supplemented with probiotics for digestive support

Contains some starchy ingredients like peas
Doesn’t provide hydration

Price Vs Overall Score Comparison

Why Should You Trust Us

That’s where we come in. With over 1847 recipe reviews, Pet Food Sherpa is the largest database for dog food recipe reviews overseen by a vet nutrition specialist.

Our team has analyzed over 1847 dry dog foods and selected the 10 best recipes, we then used our pet food algorithm to determine the scores for each recipe.

You should keep in mind that no single dry dog food is right for all dogs. Instead, use our list as a research tool to help you make a better-informed decision on your pup’s diet.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. How much dry food should I feed my dog?

There are no standard recommendations in terms of how much dry food to feed a dog. The proper feeding amount depends on numerous factors. First and foremost, however, you have to consider the calorie content of the dry dog food itself – every recipe is different.

Generally speaking, larger dogs require more calories per day than smaller dogs. That being said, small breeds burn calories at a faster rate than medium and large breeds. The best thing you can do is choose a nutritionally balanced recipe formulated for your dog’s breed size and follow the feeding recommendations on the package according to his body weight.

While body weight is one of the primary determining factors for how much to feed your dog, it’s also important to consider his age and activity level. Younger and more active dogs may require more calories than older and less active dogs. It’s best to start with the recommendations on the package and make adjustments as needed.

Work with your veterinarian to monitor your dog’s weight and increase his daily portion if he loses an unhealthy amount of weight or appears to be low in energy. If your dog gains an unhealthy amount of weight, scale back his daily portion.

To give you a general idea how much dry food to feed your dog, here is a chart:

Dog Size (lbs.)	Feeding Amount (cups)
3 to 10	1/3 to ¾
10 to 15	¾ to 1
15 to 30	1 to 1 ¾
30 to 40	1 ¾ to 2 ¼
40 to 50	2 ¼ to 2 2/3
50 to 70	2 2/3 to 3 ½
70 to 90	3 ½ to 4 ¼
100+	4 ½

Remember, these are general guidelines. Check the feeding recommendations on the pet food package for recipe-specific guidelines determined by the calorie content of the formula.

2. How long does dry dog food last?

One of the primary benefits of dry dog food over fresh or frozen food is that it has a long shelf life. In fact, dry dog food is treated and packaged to make sure it lasts as long as possible. When properly stored in a cool, dry, dark place, dry dog food can last anywhere from 12 to 18 months.

When it comes to storing dry dog food, there are a few things to keep in mind. First and foremost, it’s important that you don’t open the package until you’re ready to start feeding the product to your dog. It’s also a good idea to check the label before purchasing dry dog food to make sure it’s still good. The label should tell you when the product was packaged and how long it will stay fresh when unopened.

Once you open a bag of dry dog food, it’s best to use it within four to six weeks. This being the case, it’s important to purchase dog food in appropriate amounts. While you may be able to save by buying in bulk, dry dog food starts to lose some of its nutritional value after opening. Buying the largest bag possible may last you several months, but the quality won’t be as high toward the end of that period.

To keep your dry dog food as fresh as possible for as long as possible, store it in the original packaging. Dry food should be protected from air, heat, and light, so consider placing the entire bag in an airtight container and store it in a cool, dry, dark location.

3. Is dry food or wet food better for dogs?

It’s difficult to provide a definitive answer in the debate between dry dog food and wet because there are many factors to consider. The most important thing, of course, is to provide your dog with a nutritionally balanced diet.

Look for a product that is formulated according to AAFCO nutrient profiles to ensure that it will meet your dog’s basic nutritional requirements. It’s also a good idea to choose a recipe formulated for your dog’s breed size. From there, you have freedom of choice.

Dry food comes with many benefits, but most of those benefits apply to the dog owner rather than the dog. First, the convenience factor. Dry dog food has a much longer shelf-life than fresh or frozen food once the package has been opened. The unopened shelf-life is a little shorter than unopened canned food, but you can safely leave a bowl of dry dog food out for longer than opened canned food. Opened canned food should be refrigerated but dry food can be stored at room temperature.

Another benefit of dry food is that it tends to be less expensive than wet food and other high-quality dog foods. That being said, it’s important that you don’t shop by price alone. You should always review the label to make sure the product you’re buying is of good quality.

Dry dog food can also be easier to feed simply because portioning is simple – you just measure out your dog’s food in cups. Wet food can be tricky if your dog’s feeding recommendations are more or less than a full can or pouch.

While dry food can be very beneficial for dog owners, wet food tends to be a little better for your dog. Not only is wet food generally more appealing to dogs for the taste and texture, but it contains the hydrating moisture dry food lacks. You can always add water or broth to dry food, but you don’t have to take that extra step with wet dog food.

Though this isn’t true for all recipes, wet dog food also tends to be higher in protein and lower in carbohydrates than dry food. Due to the extrusion process through which dry foods are manufactured, higher levels of starch, thickeners, and other carbohydrate ingredients are generally necessary. Dogs do have a higher ability to digest plant matter than cats, but protein should still be the priority.

In the end, it’s up to you to decide between wet dog food and dry dog food. Consider the convenience factor for yourself but make sure to make your final decision with your dog’s best interest in mind.

4. What can be mixed with dry dog food?

Dry dog food provides an affordable, convenient dietary option for dogs, but some dogs are pickier than others. Whether you have a picky eater or a dog who simply doesn’t prefer the texture of dry food, there are plenty of things you can mix into your dog’s food to encourage him to eat.

Some of the best options to mix with dry dog food are liquids like water or bone broth. While water only adds moisture and helps soften the texture of dry dog food, bone broth provides a boost of protein, essential nutrients, and flavor. Goat’s milk is another nutritious option, and it can be particularly beneficial for your dog’s digestive system.

If boosting your dog’s hydration by adding liquid to his dry food isn’t a concern, other options include things like pumpkin puree, scrambled eggs, steamed veggies, and fish oil. Pumpkin puree is great for moisture and the dietary fiber can help ease digestive concerns like diarrhea and constipation. Scrambled eggs are rich in protein while steamed veggies provide fiber and essential nutrients. Fish oil is rich in omega-3 fatty acids which help support your dog’s skin and coat.

Another simple option is to mix your dog’s dry food with wet food from a can or pouch. This is a great way to add some flavor to your dog’s food without altering his diet too much. You can also purchase dog food toppers that come in wet, semi-moist, and dry form.

5. Is dry cat food bad for dogs?

If you live in a multi-pet household, your pets will probably steal mouthfuls of each other’s food from time to time. The good news is that dry cat food shouldn’t be harmful for your dog. That being said, a diet that consists primarily of dry cat food won’t be good for him.

Dogs and cats are both part of the carnivore family, so they have similar nutritional requirements, but there are some key differences. Cats are obligate carnivores which means their diet needs to come exclusively from animal sources. Dogs are more similar to omnivores in that they are able to digest and derive nutrition from limited amounts of plant matter.

While a high-quality dry cat food may be higher in protein than dry dog food, it won’t be formulated for your dog’s specific nutritional needs. Cat food tends to be more concentrated in fat and calories than dog food, so it could contribute to unhealthy weight gain. Differences in nutritional requirements between the two species could also contribute to nutritional deficiencies if the majority of your dog’s diet is made up of dry cat food.

In short, dry cat food is not necessarily bad for dogs. A few mouthfuls here and there is unlikely to harm him, but it certainly shouldn’t become a significant part of his daily diet.

6. How do I store dry dog food long term?

Dry dog food is designed to last for months at a time when properly stored. That being said, it is perishable and needs to be protected against heat, air, and light. The best place to store an unopened bag of dry dog food is in a cool, dry, dark place like the kitchen pantry.

While dry dog food can last for 12 to 18 months unopened, it’s best not to purchase more than you’ll be able to use within a couple of months. Once opened, the food will be exposed to the elements and that can affect the quality and the nutritional value of the food. An opened bag of dry dog food should be used within 4 to 6 weeks. So, if you stock up on too much dry food and can’t use it all within the Best By date, your dog might not be getting the quality nutrition he needs.

When it comes to storing dry dog food, it’s best to keep it in the bag once you’ve opened it. Many pet food manufacturers have moved to resealable bags, but you can also roll down the sides and secure it with a clip. For maximum protection, however, it may be best to place the entire bag in an airtight container. It’s not recommended that you pour the bag into a container because the bag provides a barrier that helps seal the fats and oils into the dog food, preventing them from going rancid.

Another benefit of keeping your dry dog food in the original packaging is that you’ll have access to label information, should you need it. In the event of a product recall, it will be helpful to have the UPC code and lot number to see whether your dog’s food may have been affected.

The post 10 Best Dry Dog Foods appeared first on Pet Food Sherpa.

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