The Best Natural Dog Foods of 2022, According to Veterinarians
Photo by Chewy Studios
We’re all looking to lead healthier lives, and that usually includes eating a more natural diet with fewer processed foods. As pet parents, we want the same for our dogs, and feeding a natural diet can offer up similar benefits. But how do you pick the best natural dog food for your pup?
First, you need to know what constitutes natural pet food. Natural pet food should contain ingredients derived from plant, animal or naturally occurring mineral sources, in their natural state or without having been produced chemically, according to the Association of American Feed Control Officers, which sets forth pet food’s nutritional standards. Though the “natural” label isn’t currently regulated by the FDA, choosing a natural dog food should help eliminate ingredients like artificial colors and flavors and man-made preservatives from your pup’s diet, making sure they get more whole ingredients and fewer chemicals.
We spoke to the experts to narrow down the vet recommended dog food options and help you find the best natural dog food for your dog. Just remember to consult with your veterinarian before making any changes to your pup’s diet.
Best Natural Dry Dog Food
This lamb and pumpkin combo is a winner, according to Dr. Katy Nelson, Chewy’s senior veterinarian. Pumpkin is great for pet digestion, and high-quality lamb makes up about 60 percent of the ingredients. Plus, this dry food contains whole grains like oats and sorghum to give your dog plenty of prolonged energy.
Best Natural Grain-Free Dog Food
For a grain-free dry food option, Dr. Jennifer Coates, DVM, recommends this Nature’s Recipe diet. She likes that the first ingredient is salmon, a high-quality protein source that helps support muscle development. This natural food for dogs also contains sweet potatoes and pumpkin, good sources of carbohydrates for added energy and good digestion.
Best Natural Wet Dog Food
This canned dog food is made with real meat, fruits and vegetables. With cage-free chicken as the first ingredient, you can count on it being a good source of protein. It also has natural sources of omega fatty acids for healthy skin and a shiny coat. Dr. Nelson says a grain-free wet dog food like this one can be used alongside a healthy kibble as part of a complete and balanced diet.
Best Affordable Natural Wet Dog Food
If you’re looking for low-cost, high-quality dog food, Dr. Coates recommends this beef, potato and green bean canned blend from Purina. It’s loaded with good stuff like vitamins, minerals and Texas-raised beef.
Best Affordable Natural Dry Dog Food
Dr. Coates recommends this high quality dog food as an excellent affordable choice, especially if you have a large dog who regularly goes through kibble. Made with steroid-free, white meat chicken, this limited ingredient food is rich in nutrients and full of natural probiotics for healthy digestion.
Best Natural Dog Food Topper
If you want an affordable way to incorporate natural dog food into your pet’s diet, Dr. Nelson says natural dog food toppers are a great option. She recommends these freeze-dried morsels which are made from cage-free turkey and organic fruits and vegetables. Bonus: You can feed these nuggets as a complete meal, too.
Best Natural Freeze Dried Dog Food
Natural freeze-dried dog foods like these chicken dinner patties are an easy way to feed your dog a raw diet. Serve as-is or rehydrate with water. They can also be used as a topper. Dr. Nelsons uses Stella and Chewy’s freeze-dried biscuits as a topper for her dogs’ diet of kibble and fresh foods.
Best Natural Dehydrated Dog Food
This whole grain dehydrated healthy dog food has an ingredient list of words you can actually pronounce, starting with chicken. “The Honest Kitchen does a great job of creating human-grade meals for pets with healthy proteins, grains, fruits and vegetables—pets feel like they’re eating Thanksgiving dinner every day … but it’s good for them!” says Dr. Nelson. If you have a picky eater, add this to their meal for an extra flavor boost.
Best Natural Senior Dog Food
Dogs heading into their golden years may have some specific dietary needs for their all natural dog food. Dr. Nelson recommends this food for seniors because it’s made with high-quality animal protein. The formula also uses GMO-free spelt and oats to fuel your elder pup for plenty of steady energy.
Best Natural Puppy Food
Dr. Nelson recommends this whole grain kibble and raw freeze-dried blend for growing pups. Good for both their body and brain, the formula is made with all-natural, minimally processed chicken as well as natural DHA (docosahexaenoic acid, an omega-3 fatty acid) from chicken eggs to help support brain and eye development.
When choosing the best natural dog food for your pet, there are more than a few good choices on the market, and your veterinarian can help you find the ideal diet for your pup. “Your veterinarian is going to know what sort of specific conditions, dietary needs and lifestyle your pet may have. Work very closely with them on choosing the right food,” says Dr. Nelson. With your vet’s guidance, you can transition your dog to one of the best natural dog foods for many years of health and happiness by your side.
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