8 Best Dry Dog Foods in 2025, Recommended by Vets
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All products in this article have been reviewed by our trusted vets and experts. PetMD is owned by Chewy.
Finding the best dry dog food for your dog can be a challenge, especially since there are thousands of dry dog food options on the market.
When looking for the best dry dog food for your dog, you'll want to make sure it is complete and balanced, while meeting any specific nutritional requirements for your individual pet.
Our team of veterinarians has reviewed multiple dry dog food brands, focusing on nutritional content, ingredient quality, and palatability.
After extensive evaluation, they compiled a list of their top nine best dry dog foods for your beloved pup.
What To Look For When Buying Dry Dog Food
When shopping for the best dry food for dogs, our vets recommend products that meet the standards set by the Association of American Feed Control Officials (AAFCO), a private, non-profit organization that establishes standard ingredient definitions and nutritional requirements for pet food.
A complete-and-balanced diet will include the following:
- Protein: Protein is important for your dog’s muscle growth and repair. It provides the building blocks for enzymes, hormones, and other vital body processes.
- Fats: Fats are a dense source of energy and essential for absorbing vitamins. Essential omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids play a key role in maintaining your dog’s healthy skin and coat.
- Carbohydrates: Carbohydrates provide energy for an active lifestyle. They also help in your dog’s gastrointestinal health and cognitive function.
- Vitamins: Vitamins are necessary for immune system function and overall health. There are different types of vitamins, and each plays a unique role, from promoting bone health to fighting infections.
According to AAFCO, dry dog food should have a good balance of vitamins A, B12, D, and E; thiamine; riboflavin; pantothenic acid; niacin; pyridoxine; folic acid; and choline. - Minerals: Minerals support bone health, nerve function, and overall cellular processes. They are essential for maintaining balance and fluids in the body.
AAFCO lists the following minerals in its dry dog food nutritional requirements: calcium, phosphorus, potassium, sodium, chloride, magnesium, iron, copper, manganese, zinc, iodine, and selenium. - Water: Water is essential for life. It helps with digestion, regulates body temperature, and aids in nutrient absorption. Maintaining hydration is vital for your dog’s health.
How We Selected the Best Dry Dog Food
This list of the best dry dog food was meticulously curated by a panel of veterinarians who are employed by Chewy, the publisher of PetMD.
They were asked to choose the best dry dog food, in their honest opinion, across multiple categories (as listed above) based on the following:
- Their knowledge and practical experience
- Review of information published by the pet food manufacturers
- Dog food attributes, such as high-quality ingredients, nutrient and vitamin content, and overall palatability
Opinions and product recommendations in this article belong solely to the review panel of vets and animal health experts.
Manufacturers and vendors cannot buy placement in Vet Verified content, or exert influence on our panelists as they evaluate products.
Our sole goal with this program is to provide pet parents with the information they need to make the best decision for their pets.
