Premium Pet Care Understanding the Importance of River Run Pet Food

Best Premium Dog Foods: These Are My Top 10 [Are They Worth It?]

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This content was reviewed and fact-checked by veterinarian Dr. Aukse Caraite, DVM.

As a devoted dog owner, Ive always been keenly aware of the impact of diet on our canine companions health and happiness. Thats why Ive turned my focus towards premium dog food. This isnt just about fancy labels or higher prices; its about whats inside the bag the quality of ingredients and the nutritional balance tailored to our dogs specific needs. In this article, I want to share my insights into how premium dog food can profoundly benefit our dogs, including our recommendations for the best premium dog foods we personally hand-test.

Best Premium Dog Foods At A Glance

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10

premium dog foodbrands recommended

What Is Premium Dog Food?

Premium dog food refers to pet food that is often marketed as being of higher quality than standard dog food. The term premium isnt officially regulated, meaning it must meet no specific standard to earn this label. Typically, premium dog foods claim to use higher-quality ingredients and have more rigorous manufacturing processes. They may include human-grade meats as the primary protein source, no fillers, and no artificial colors or preservatives. However, the definition can vary between manufacturers, and the term premium is primarily driven by marketing strategies.

Why Dog Parents Feed Their Dogs Premium Food?

Dog parents often opt for premium dog food due to concerns about the quality of ingredients in traditional kibble. Feed-grade ingredients, typically used in conventional dog foods, may be harmful and not meet the same stringent quality and safety standards that human-grade dog food brands follow. Similarly, owners who view their dogs as part of the family are more likely to invest in high-quality, premium dog foods, seeking out healthier products to ensure their pets get the best nutrition to avoid health issues and vet bills down the road. A survey revealed that 50.5% of pet parents purchase premium pet food to ensure their pets feel like family. These trends lead to a greater demand for premium dog foods. The worldwide premium pet food market is expected to grow to $59.2 billiona 69% growth from 2017.

Characteristics to Look For In Premium Dog Food

Brand reputation Focus on the brands reputation, quality control, and attention to nutritional detail is important rather than just the premium label. The designation of premium is often a marketing strategy, and such foods may not necessarily be healthier. Animal welfare considerationsEnsure that any animal-derived ingredients come from sources that uphold high standards of animal welfare. This means the animals are raised in humane conditions, ensuring their well-being.Organic ingredientsPrefer dog foods that use certified organic ingredients, grown without synthetic pesticides, fertilizers, GMOs, or irradiation, catering to those seeking natural and chemical-free options for their pets.Personalization optionsConsider brands that offer personalized dog food options, tailored to the specific dietary needs and preferences of individual dogs. This can include custom formulations based on factors such as breed, age, activity level, and health conditions, catering to the unique needs of your pet.Human-grade ingredientsChoose dog foods with ingredients that are safe and suitable for human consumption. This standard exceeds the feed-grade quality and indicates a higher focus on ingredient safety and quality.Sustainable practicesLook for brands that use environmentally responsible methods in producing and sourcing their dog food. This includes sustainable farming and fishing practices, efforts to reduce carbon footprint, and eco-friendly packaging, reflecting a commitment to environmental stewardship.AAFCO approvalLook for dog foods that meet or exceed the nutritional standards of the Association of American Feed Control Officials (AAFCO). This ensures that the food is a complete and balanced diet for dogs.Nutrient-rich superfoodsIncorporating superfoods like blueberries, kale, or sweet potatoes, known for their high nutrient content, can provide additional health benefits beyond essential nutrition.

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What Are The Best Premium Dog Foods?

Best Overall Premium Dog Food

The Farmers Dog

Who Its For: Offers the best overall balance of nutrients, premium ingredients, price, customer service, and other key characteristics. Their recipes are perfect for most dogs.

Recipes: Turkey, chicken, beef & pork

Why we picked and recommended it: The Farmers Dogwins our best overall premium dog food brand because the quality of their food is outstanding. They have tested their food on humans, which speaks volumes about the quality and taste of their recipes. Your dogs meals are gently cooked from scratch, ensuring all nutritional integrity is retained this means that your dog gets the healthiest and most nutritious meal with every serving. The Farmers Dog recipes are ready-to-serve and come in biodegradable pouches and eco-friendly packaging delivered to your doorstep.

What sets it apart from competitors: The Farmers Dog offers an extensive dog profile and diet customization to meet your dogs dietary needs, calorie intake, age, size, preferences, health issues (i.e., allergies, cancer, and obesity) and more.

Key Features

• Vet-designed.Board-certified ACVN veterinary nutritionists make all recipes.
• Excellent ingredient sourcing.They use reputable food suppliers, local farms, and other human food purveyors that meet USDA standards.

Pros

• The level of customization is unmatched
• Packaged as daily portions for easy serving
• Non-processed food (zero chemicals)
• Food is delivered within days of cooking
• Never use feed-grade ingredients

Cons

• Its on the expensive side

My Personal Experience

The Farmers Dog offers top-notch fresh premium dog food that looks homemade and exceeds AAFCO nutrition standards. Our dog tested all the recipes flavors available and he devoured them all without any digestive issues whatsoever. He is more energetic and looks healthier since making the switch.

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Best Dry Premium Dog Food

The Honest Kitchen

Who Its For: For those who want to feed premium dry dog food that offers the benefits of fresh and human-grade ingredients.

Recipes: Turkey, beef, salmon & chicken

Why we picked and recommended it: The Honest Kitchenis thepioneer brand of premium dog foodwhich was born to help as many pets as possible get on the road to good health.The Honest Kitchen whole food cluster recipes are roasted and dehydrated to preserve nutrients and flavor and maximize nutritional integrity. The Honest Kitchen is a superfood-powered kibble with functional ingredients that support and boost gut, skin and coat, immunity, heart, weight management and more.

What sets it apart from competitors: Their preparation methods and facilities meet safety standards 7x those of feed-grade. Their food is made in a facility that produces human and premium food.

Key Features

• Vet recommended.Their premium dog food kibble is recommended by Leilani Alvarez, DVM, DACVSMR Director of Integrative & Rehabilitative Medicine, Animal Medical Center, NY, recommends their premium dog food kibble.
• Digestive health.It contains naturally occurring pre and probiotics tohelp regulate thedog microbiome.
• FDA human-grade.First pet food company to obtain approval from the FDA to use the term human grade on its products.

Pros

• Made with USDA meat proteins, vegetables, and fruits
• Exceeds industry standards
• No artificial flavors, preservatives or by-products
• Cheaper than fresh dog food
• Crunchy texture

Cons

• Its a bit more expensive than traditional kibble.NUTRO Ultra dry dog foodis another great alternative if you want a more traditional dry dog food thats less expensive.

My Personal Experience

Weve tried countless dog dry dog foods, but nothing compares to The Honest Kitchen Whole Food Clusters. Our dog used to be lethargic and uninterested in traditional kibble, he ssemed to have grown tired of it. But, now he eagerly awaits feeding time and finishes every last bite. Its heartwarming to see him so happy and thriving! We mix the clusters with fresh food sometimes and he loves both.

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Best Wet Premium Dog Food

JustFoodForDogs

Who Its For: The soft texture and aroma of wet food make it ideal for picky eaters or dogs with dental problems, missing teeth, or older dogs who may struggle with hard kibble.

Recipes: Beef, chicken, lamb, turkey and more

Why we picked and recommended it: JustFoodForDogs (JFFD)offers a wide selection of premium dog food recipes. However, their Pantry Fresh wet food recipes are the best in this category. PantryFresh combines fresh premium ingredients, convenience, and a mouth-watering taste. They come in eight flavors and have wet and stewy textures dogs crave.

What sets it apart from competitors: Meals are ready-to-eat out of the box and are shelf-stable for up to two years. Once opened, the product needs to be refrigerated.

Key Features

• Formulated by experts.JFFD relies onover 14 board-certified veterinarians, dermatologists, and nutritionists to oversee their recipes.
• Fresh ingredients.Use premium meats and produce, the same ingredients you can find in grocery stores and restaurants offer.

Cons

• Its on the expensive side

Best Premium Dog Food For Puppies

Raised Right

Who Its For: Premium dog food recipes specially made for the growing needs of puppies.

Recipes: Turkey, beef, chicken and more

Life stage: Adult and puppies

Why we picked and recommended it: Pet food companyRaised Righthas a century-old farming and ranching heritage and brings farm-fresh ingredients to its recipes. Raised Right puppy recipes are great to start weaning your puppy into adult food. They have balanced calcium and phosphorus levels, perfect for healthy bone growth in puppies. Its filled with healthy fats and carbs higher than all other recipes to support the energy requirements of growing puppies. Once your puppy reaches one year, you can start feeding them their adult recipes or another brand of your choice on this review.

What sets it apart from competitors: Raised Right doesnt use unnecessary high-carb fillers like potato, rice, oats, yam, squash, pasta, barley, parsnips, corn, or wheat. Their recipes also have roughly double the amount of protein than other human-grade brands.

Key Features

• Veterinarian formulated.Their recipes are developed by world-renowned veterinarian Dr. Karen Becker and pet-food formulation expert Steve Brown.

Pros

• Recognized by the Innovative Veterinary Care Journal for the impact their recipes are making in the lives of dogs and cats by being awarded the 2019 Innovation Award for Nutrition
• Family-owned company
• Home-cooked style dog food
• Food is lightly cooked in a human-grade facility

Cons

• Personalization is not as detailed as other brands

My Personal Experience

Raised Rights puppy recipe has been a game-changer for our little one. Not only does he lick his bowl clean every time, but weve also noticed how vibrant and playful hes become. Its comforting to know that as he grows, hes fueled by the best.

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Best Premium Grain-Free Dog Food

Open Farm

Who Its For: Suitable for all dogs, especially those with food sensitivities or allergies to grains.

Why we picked and recommended it: Does your dog suffer from grain allergies or intolerances? If so, Open Farms grain-free dry dog formula is your best bet. We picked it because they skip the grain, corn, soy and wheat in favor of science-backed superfoods like non-GMO pumpkin, apples, leafy greens and coconut oil for a balanced and complete diet that provide antioxidants, vitamins, and minerals to support your dogs nutritional needs. Open Farm grain-free recipes are specifically designed for dogs with grain sensitivities.

What sets it apart from competitors: Open Farm grain-free recipes are made with premium nutrient-rich ingredients, cold-pressed into bite-sized clusters, roasted and dehydrated to maintain whole foods nutrients, aroma and taste.

Key Features

• 100% traceable ingredients.Instantly trace the origin of every ingredient in your bag via their website.
• Premium ingredients.Locally sourced non-GMO fruits and veggies.
• Ethically sourced protein.Only uses ethically sourced and humanely raised meats.

Pros

• No rendered poultry or meat meals
• Meats from audited higher welfare farms
• Local carbon footprint per bag
• High in protein

Cons

• It can be more expensive than other brands on the market

My Personal Experience

The ingredients in this dog food are impressive, and contrary to other reviews, I find the scent to be quite typical of standard kibble. My two dogs loved it, making a smooth transition from another brand within a day. Though its on the pricier side, its delicious. It can be used as treats during training sessions due to theri small size. The ingredients are of high quality and have never caused tummy issues. Even my picky eaters clean their plates every time

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Best Premium Freeze-Dried Dog Food

Open Farm

Who Its For: For those who want to provide their dogs with the nutritional benefits of raw food without the hassle of storage and preparation.

Recipes: Turkey, surf & turf, chicken and beef

Why we picked and recommended it: Open Farm Freeze-Dried Dog Food uses gently freeze-dried 95% meat, organs and bones to provide easy-to-feed pure raw nutrition with the convenience of kibble and the benefits of raw diet for dogs.

What sets it apart from competitors: Its made with humanly raised premium meats free from antibiotics, hormone, and steroids. Each ingredient preserves most of its nutritional profile due to the freeze-drying process.

Key Features

• Organic fruits and vegetables. Includes organic produce for additional vitamins and antioxidants to support your dogs overall health.
• Essential minerals and fats. For energy, coat, and immune system

Pros

• No unnatural fillers, cereals, or grains because theyre not part of your dogs natural diet. Overdoing it on cereals, grains, and fillers can potentially lead to long-term health problems
• Ethical and sustainable sourcing practices
• Convenient and less messy than traditional raw diets

Cons

• Limited variety compared to some other freeze-dried options

My Personal Experience

My dogs are big fans of this food! Since its highly dehydrated, its not ready to eat immediately. I mix water into and our dogs happily eat it all without spitting it out. Ive purchased this twice already. It is expensive for the quantity provided Im almost through the first bag, and it hasnt even been a month since I received it. However, if my fur baby enjoys it, it must be good. If you are on a budget I recommend this as a topper or as treats.

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Best Premium Dog Food For Senior

JustFoodForDogs

Who Its For: Great for senior dog parents looking to provide the most optimal premium nutrition and dietary support for their senior canines.

Recipes: Over 20+ recipes

Why we picked and recommended it: JustFoodForDogs (JFFD)offers a wide selection of premium dog food recipes. However, their senior food recipes are the best in this category. PantryFresh combines fresh, gently cooked ingredients, convenience, and a mouth-watering taste.

What sets it apart from competitors: Recipes are designed to support healthy aging and stay healthy and active in their golden years.

Key Features

• Formulated by experts.JFFD relies onover 14 board-certified veterinarians, dermatologists, and nutritionists to oversee their recipes.
• Fresh ingredients.Use the highest-quality meats and produce, the same ingredients you can find in grocery stores and restaurants offer.

Best Premium Raw Dog Food

We Feed Raw

Who Its For: Perfect for those seeking to feed their dogs a diet that more biologically appropriate for dogs, and that provides a complete nutrient profile per ingredient.

Recipes: Beef. turkey, lamb, chicken, venison & duck

Why we picked and recommended it: We Feed Raw is recognized as the best premium raw dog food, offering personalized meal plans tailored to your dogs age, breed, ideal weight, and activity level, with the option to indicate allergies or preferences. Their recipes are expertly formulated by a Ph.D. animal nutritionist, boasting over 30 years of experience in raw feeding and animal nutrition. To ensure safety and nutrient preservation, their food undergoes High-Pressure Processing (HPP), an all-natural technology that uses ultra-high water pressure to eliminate food-borne pathogens like Listeria, E. Coli, and Salmonella, without compromising the foods nutritional value.

What sets it apart from competitors: We Feed Raw stands out because they offer premium raw dog food in bulk. This lets dog owners save a lot of money while helping to reduce their carbon footprint. Another unique factor of this food is that they includes a high-quality vitamin and mineral premix for an added boost of nutrition.

Key Features

• Receive pre-portioned meals.Meals are portioned to your dogs daily needs for easy serving and to reduce food waste.
• Premium quality.Their recipes are produced in a USDA-certified facility with strict BRC safe quality food manufacturing compliance requirements.

Pros

• No fillers or artificial preservatives, colors, and flavors
• Stacks and stores easily in a standard freezer
• Complete and balanced for cats as well
• Sustainable dog foodcompany practices such as delivery in an insulated, eco-friendly, compostable cooler with dry ice

Cons

• It does not offer other raw dog products, such as treats

My Personal Experience

Ive been feeding our dogs raw food for over three years. We decided to give We Feed Raw a chance due to the convenince of getting balanced raw meals ready to serve. This company is amazing and we couldnt be happier witht he food and the results. Our pups devour the food. Ive always prepared my dogs raw homemade recipes and they also loved them. But with WFR I can feel more confident their recipes are balance and provide the nutrients they need to thirve. I can tell their energy levels are higher, and their coat have never looked better.

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Best Dehydrated Premium Dog Food

The Honest Kitchen

Who Its For: A great pick for dogs with digestion or chewing problems. The soft and moist texture favors easy digestion and offers optimal flavor. Its also great for traveling.

Recipes: Turkey, beef, salmon & chicken

Life stage: Adult and puppy

Ingredients: Human-grade, ethically sourced

Why we picked and recommended it: The Honest Kitchen premium dehydrated dog food takes the first place in this category. Instead of boring chunks of kibble or smelly old pt, this food is made with dehydrated, human-grade ingredients. Add warm water and wait three minutes for a tasty, homemade meal you and your pets will love.

What sets it apart from competitors: Made using real, whole food ingredients, like free-range chicken, that are gently dehydrated to maintain nutrients and taste.

Key Features

• Convenient.The packaging and dehydrated nature make it easy to transport and store anywhere, making it ideal for on-the-go dog parents.
• 100% human grade standards.Use the same whole food ingredients youd recognize in your kitchen, and make this recipe in a human food facility.

Pros

• Exceeds industry quality standards
• Much more affordable than competitors on this list
• A wide variety of recipes are available
• Grain-inclusive and grain-free options

Cons

• Not as fresh as some other human-grade dog foods
• Preparation is required before serving, but its not bad at all
• Re-hydrated leftovers would need to be refrigerated

My Personal Experience

Who knew that pouring water into The Honest Kitchens dehydrated mix would feel like a mini cooking show? And the best part? Our dog, sits there, eyes wide, licking his chops in anticipation. Its not just food; its an experience we both look forward to. I love watching our pup do a little dinner dance every time I rehydrate his meal, Im a believer. Its like Im whipping up a gourmet dish for him, and judging by his wagging tail, he seems to think so too!

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Best Air-Dried Premium Dog Food

Ziwi

Who Its For: For owners wanting to feed their pets a diet closer to fresh and raw diets, air-dried foods provide a more convenient option.

Recipes: Beef, chicken, lamb & venison

Manufactured: New Zealand

Ingredients: Free-range meat and wild-caught seafood

Why we picked and recommended it: ZIWI was chosen for its high-quality, air-dried formula, which provides a nutrient-rich diet crafted to be biologically appropriate. They contain unmatched, authentic inclusions and a variety of highly digestible meat, organs, fish, green mussels, and bone. All recipes are boosted with a proprietary blend of cold-washed green tripe or poultry heart, whole New Zealand green mussels, and organic kelp. Together, theyre a source of vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants to support the brain, skin, and coat health.

What sets it apart from competitors: The brand uses free-range and grass-fed animal protein and seafood sources from New Zealand, ensuring no hormones or antibiotics are in the meat. They follow strict animal welfare guidelines.

Key Features

• No crumbs. It doesnt crumble, making for a great training reward.
• New Zealands freedom principles.All their animals are raised free of hunger, thirst, discomfort, pain, injury, disease, fear or sisters.
• Air-drying technique: Maintains the nutritional integrity of ingredients and their flavor.

Pros

• Benefits of a carnivorous diet such increased energy, gut health, teeth and gum and cognitive health
• Limited ingredient recipes suitable for dogs with sensitivities
• Commitment to ethical and sustainable practices and sourcing
• For cats and dogs

Cons

• Availability may be limited in certain regions, requiring online ordering.

Best Plant-Based Premium Dog Food

Wild Earth

Who Its For: Premium plant-based dog food those who prioritize animal welfare, sustainability, environmentally friendly pet nutrition or allergies to animal-based proteins.

Recipes: Chickn Kabob, roast and rotisserie

Life stage: Adult and senior

Why we picked and recommended it: Wild Earthwins our pick for best plant-based premium dog food. Theyve developed the cleanest vegan dog protein that is vet-approved and made fromcruelty-free, sustainably sourced ingredients for healthier pets and the planet. A survey by the company revealed that 86% of 3,000 customers reported a positive health benefit for their dog after switching. These included increased energy, less itching, improved coat, better digestive health, improved joint health, and much more.

What sets it apart from competitors: The industrys first dog food that uses yeast protein as the main ingredient, which is dense with nutrientsand contains all the amino acids dogs need and more protein thananymeat product. By weight, yeast is 45-49% protein, whereas beef is only 24%-26%.

Key Features

• Vet-formulated.It was created by scientists and nutritionists and vetted by their chief veterinary officer, Dr. Ernie Ward, and other industry experts.
• Superfood-packed.It comes with a blend of superfood ingredients like oats, chickpeas, and sweet potato for strong muscles and a healthy gut.

Pros

• No corn, no soy, no rice
• Uses 90% fewer resources than meat-based dog food
• Boosted with Taurine, L-carnitine, and sunflower oil for omega fatty acids, among other valuable vitamins and minerals
• Algae DHA for healthy skin and coat

Cons

• No grain-free options
• Pricier than most traditional kibble
• Food packing is not recyclable
• May not be suitable for all picky dogs

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Frequently Asked Questions

Other Premium Dog Food Alternatives Conclusion

Making the switch to premium dog food was a decision driven by love and a desire to provide the best possible care. In my experience, the difference has been noticeable. Ive seen improvements in their energy levels, coat health, and overall well-being, which fills me with immense satisfaction.

This journey into the world of premium dog food isnt just about feeding our pets; its about enriching their lives and, in turn, our own. Every scoop of food is a testament to the bond we share with our dogs, a bond that is nurtured with every meal. I encourage you, as fellow dog lovers, to consider the impact that a high-quality diet can have on your pets life. Its a choice that can bring about positive changes, and one that our loyal companions undeniably deserve.

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