Some dogs will devour anything you put in front of them, but others can be incredibly picky eaters. It can be taxing on your budget to keep buying food your dog won’t eat, not to mention the worry there may be something medically wrong that is causing it. You’re not alone if you have a picky eater on your paws. Thankfully, the dog food market is booming, and there are plenty of tasty, high-quality options to please even the pickiest pups.
Our dog testers jumped in to test out the top brands (15+) on the market. These picky canine eaters gobbled up the opportunity to give a review of these products in hopes of helping other dogs out there who have sensitive stomachs or are just super particular when it comes to food. Let’s jump into the best dog food for picky eaters, why dogs are picky eaters, ways to approach this issue, and more.
| Overall | Human Food Smell | Topper | Best Tasting | Wet | Dry |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
 |  |  |  |  |  |
| The Farmer’s Dog | Ollie | Spot & Tango UnKibble | Nom Nom | PetPlate | Sundays For Dogs |
| Visit Website | Visit Website | Visit Website | Visit Website | Visit Website | Visit Website |
| Read Review | Read Review | Read Review | Read Review | Read Review | Read Review |
Why Are Some Dogs Picky Eaters?
Dogs can be picky eaters for a few reasons. Before you pick a new food, it’s best to try and pinpoint why your pup is being so fussy about their diet. As with any of our advice, we can only provide you with general guidance. You’ll want to check with your vet if you have concerns about your pup’s behavior or dietary issues. It’s important to do this before making any major dietary changes.
Let’s take a look at the common causes of selective eating in canines.
- Health or Dental Issues: First and foremost, you want to make sure an underlying health or dental condition is not causing your dog’s lack of interest in eating. The first sign that picky eating might be health-related is if a dog that has never been selective with food before suddenly stops eating. Your dog could suffer from gastrointestinal issues like an upset stomach or indigestion.
- Super Sniffers: Dogs have an extraordinary sense of smell, and this superpower can work both for and against their appetite. Fido might turn up his nose in disapproval if the food doesn’t smell appealing enough. Dogs can also smell if food is not fresh, which might turn them off from eating it.
- Taste Preferences: Just like humans, dogs have individual tastes and preferences. Some pooches may prefer the meaty goodness, while others might enjoy a veggie-filled feast.
- Boredom: Imagine eating the same thing every day. It can become quite tedious. Our furry friends can get bored with their meals, too! Switching up their food or adding tasty toppers can be a fun way to rekindle their culinary interest.
- Snacks: We’re all guilty of spoiling our fur babies occasionally. If they’ve been treated to table scraps or delectable human food, they might develop a preference for these delicacies, making regular dog food less appealing. Excessive snacking, even on dog treats, can make some pups very choosy about eating their kibble.
How To Pick Dog Food For Your Picky Eater
I’ve had plenty of experience shopping for dog food brands over the years, so here are some things I’ve learned and what to look for in dog food (especially for your picky eater):
- High-Quality Proteins: Just like us, dogs thrive on a protein-rich diet. Look for dog foods with real meat as the primary ingredient. Chicken, turkey, beef, lamb, and fish are excellent protein sources. Avoid foods with vague labels like “meat meal” or “by-products” as they may not provide the same nutritional value. Unless they are allergic to meat, you should find food with another protein source, such as egg-based food or plant proteins. You can even try a novel protein, like crickets. (Learn more about Chippin, a cricket-based dog food).
- Wholesome Carbohydrates: Carbohydrates provide energy and essential nutrients. Seek out dog foods that include whole grains like brown rice, oats, barley, or sweet potatoes. These complex carbs are better than fillers like corn or wheat.
- Essential Fatty Acids: Fats are vital for your pup’s skin, coat, and overall health. Look for dog foods that contain sources of omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids, such as fish oil or flaxseed.
- No Artificial Additives: Our furry friends don’t need artificial flavors, colors, or preservatives in their meals. Opt for dog foods that are free from these unnecessary extras. Natural is the way to go!
- No Harmful Fillers: Steer clear of dog foods that contain excessive fillers, such as soy, corn, or artificial additives. These can be harder for dogs to digest and may not offer much nutritional value.
- Limited Ingredient Options: If you have a particularly picky eater or a pup with food sensitivities, consider trying limited ingredient diets. These foods have fewer ingredients, making it easier to identify potential allergens.
- Tailored to Age and Size: Puppies, adult dogs, and seniors have different nutritional needs. Choose a dog food that matches your furry friend’s life stage. Also, keep in mind the size of your dog. Small and large breeds may have specific dietary requirements.
- Natural Flavor Boosters: To entice picky eaters, look for dog foods that use natural flavor enhancers like freeze-dried raw pieces, bone broth, or dehydrated meats. These can make mealtime more exciting and delicious.
- Wet Food: For dogs who are exceptionally choosy, wet food can be a game-changer. The moisture and texture might appeal to their taste buds and encourage them to eat.
Always Read The Label
Remember to read the labels carefully. Ingredients are listed in descending order by weight, so the first few ingredients are the most important.
Best Dog Food For Picky Eaters
Our dogs tasted and reviewed over 15 different dog foods in our hunt for the best. It was a tough job, but some lucky pups were up for the test, and I’ve narrowed it down to the favorites by category.
Best Overall: The Farmer’s Dog Review
Fresh food can be a game changer for picky eaters, and The Farmer’s Dog is a top pick for them and all dogs. The quality of this human-grade brand is top-notch. All The Farmer’s Dog recipes are developed by board-certified American College of Veterinary Nutrition experts and made with locally sourced, USDA human-grade ingredients.
Over 15 different health issues are considered, including allergies, digestive issues, gluten or grain sensitivity, ear infections, and more. Meal plans are made by subscription, and your dog’s unique lifestyle and dietary goals are considered. Meals are freshly cooked, then flash-frozen, and shipped to your door.
The Farmer’s Dog does come with a steep price tag, but the premium food may be worth it to enhance your dog’s long-term health and well-being. Learn more about The Farmer’s Dog cost in our in-depth breakdown.
There are four options of recipes with The Farmer’s Dog: beef, chicken, pork, and turkey. Our doggie testers tried out the turkey recipe.
Ingredients:
USDA turkey, chickpeas, carrot, broccoli, parsnip, spinach, salmon oil, TFD Nutrient Blend [tricalcium phosphate, sea salt, vitamin B12 supplement, choline bitartrate, taurine, zinc amino acid chelate, iron amino acid chelate, vitamin E supplement, copper amino acid chelate, thiamine mononitrate, riboflavin, potassium iodide, pyridoxine hydrochloride, vitamin D3 supplement, folic acid]
Crude Protein Crude Fat Crude Fiber Moisture 9% max 7% max 1.5% max 75% max
Price
- Starts at $2 per day. Prices vary depending on size, breed, and plan.
Our Personal Experience With The Farmer’s Dog
The verdict? Our dog LOVES it! He gobbles it down fast and has had much more consistent bowel movements. Our Cavalier King Charles Spaniel has also lost and maintained a much healthier weight since switching (and their coat is noticeably shinier, soft, and healthy). And since our trial, we’ve been paying customers for over two years!
– Sadie Cornelius, Cavalier King Charles Spaniel Dog Mom, Canine Journal Creative & Marketing
In-Depth The Farmer’s Dog Review
Learn more about this leading fresh food delivery plan in our detailed The Farmer’s Dog review.
Best Dog Food That Smells Like Human Food: Ollie Beef Dish With Sweet Potato Review
Ollie is another company that offers 100% human-grade nutrition for dogs. Ollie offers both fresh and baked recipes. Both are a great pick for your picky eater. Recipes are vet-formulated and made with real meat as the first ingredient. There are no added hormones, by-products, or fillers, and no corn, soy, or wheat. You can learn more about the brand and fresh nutrition for your pup in our interview with Ollie’s Chief Nutrition officer, Dr. Justin Shmalberg.
Fresh recipes have five protein choices: beef, chicken, turkey, lamb, and pork. Baked recipes currently come in beef or chicken options. Meal plans can be fully fresh, half fresh, or mixed fresh and baked. As with other subscriptions, the price varies, depending on your dog’s needs, recipes picked, and your specific plan. You can learn more in our detailed Ollie price breakdown. Our canine tester, Tiny, tried out the Beef Dish With Sweet Potatoes.
Ingredients:
Beef, carrots, beef kidneys, potatoes, peas, sweet potatoes, beef livers, chickpeas, spinach, tricalcium phosphate, salmon oil, salt, taurine, zinc gluconate, vitamin E supplement, ferrous sulphate, copper amino acid chelate, manganese amino acid chelate, cholecalciferol (vitamin D3) supplement, riboflavin (vitamin B2), thiamine hydrochloride (vitamin B1), pyridoxine hydrochloride (vitamin B6), potassium iodide.
| Crude Protein | Crude Fat | Crude Fiber | Moisture |
|---|---|---|---|
| 9% max | 7% max | 2% max | 72% max |
Price
- Starts at $1.57 per meal for fully fresh, $1 per meal for half-fresh, and $1.36 a meal for the mixed plan.
Our Personal Experience With Ollie Dog Food
I switched from feeding Tiny 100% dry kibble to mixing the kibble 50/50 with Ollie. Tiny gobbled up his new mixture immediately and was begging for more. This was a big change from him typically turning his snout up when I feed him only kibble.
After a few weeks on the new diet, Tiny continues to love his new food. I’ve also noticed that he doesn’t have nearly as much gas, and his every-other-day vomiting has calmed down a lot as well. The only challenge is making room in my freezer for his food packets and remembering to keep enough thawed in the fridge for his next few meals.
– Sally Jones, Rescue Dog Mom, Canine Journal Writer & Editor
Full Ollie Dog Review
Our full Ollie dog food review discusses this brand in more detail. You can also see how The Farmer’s Dog and Ollie compare.
Best Dog Food Topper For Picky Eaters: Spot & Tango UnKibble Cod & Salmon Review
Spot & Tango offers another fantastic option for picky pups. They have two different recipe lines, a fresh and a shelf-stable option. The shelf-stable option, called Unkibble, is dehydrated under low pressure and made from the same fresh, human-grade ingredients. Both options can be used for a tasty topper, perfect for picky pups.
UnKibble has four flavors: cod + salmon, beef, chicken, and turkey. Fresh options are turkey, beef, and lamb. All recipes meet the AAFCO nutrient profiles for dogs of all ages, puppy to senior. Recipes are also all formulated by veterinary nutritionists and are completed and balanced.
Spot & Tango pricing varies depending on your pup’s size, the meal plan, and selected recipes. Plans range from about $16 a week to over $125 a week. Learn more in our detailed Spot & Tango pricing guide.
Our lucky canine testers Daisy and Falkor tried both the UnKibble and the fresh options and loved both. Below, I break down the UnKibble Cod+ Salmon recipe.
Ingredients:
Cod, salmon, sweet potatoes, pumpkin, sunflower seeds, tapioca, strawberries, carrots, spinach, parsley, rosemary, kelp, salt, Mixed tocopherols (natural source of Vitamin E), vitamins & minerals.
| Crude Protein | Crude Fat | Crude Fiber | Moisture |
|---|---|---|---|
| 25% max | 17% max | 3% max | 4% max |
Price
- Starts at $16 per week
My Personal Experience With Spot & Tango Dog Food
Right off the bat, the Beef + Barley Unkibble was a hit. My senior dog Daisy has been not wanting to eat a lot lately and has been picky about her kibble. She perked up as soon as she smelled the food and even mixed it in with her regular food, gobbled it all up. Daisy has been excited about mealtimes and very much enjoys the taste and texture. She also has a lot more energy and pep in her step since she has been eating better.
The fresh meals were also a big success. My smaller breed dog Falkor could not wait to try out the Turkey + Red Quinoa. He took to it right away and looked for more once he was done. He is a good eater but also very fussy about the kind of food he likes. So, it was great that he liked this so much. Falkor has been perky and looking forward to mealtimes. He is even trying to steal his big sister’s food. His gas has been much less smelly and frequent, he is a dog that is known to fart a lot, and this has been a welcome change.
Read Our Detailed Spot & Tango Review
Learn more about Spot & Tango’s different recipes in our detailed review.
Best Tasting Dog Food For Picky Eaters: Nom Nom Beef Mash Review
Picky canines love fresh food, and Nom Nom is another top pick. The all-natural brand makes fresh dog food that you can have delivered to your door. Meals are made with premium ingredients, and all come pre-portioned. If your pup is under 40 pounds, you can opt for the half-plan and save a few bucks.
A team of pet health experts and veterinary nutritionists formulates Nom Nom recipes. All recipes meet the AAFCO nutrient profiles for dogs of all life stages. So, Nom Nom is good for adults and puppies, which is great. Currently, they offer four recipes: Beef, Turkey, Chicken, and Pork. You can try out a sampler pack to test all the recipes before committing to a subscription. They also offer a money-back guarantee if you aren’t happy after 30 days.
Our canine testers tried out the beef recipe, which I have broken down for you below.
Ingredients:
Ground beef, russet potatoes, eggs, carrots, peas, dicalcium phosphate, potassium chloride, salt, natural flavor, citric acid, vinegar, calcium carbonate, taurine, fish oil, sunflower oil, choline bitartrate, vitamin E supplement, water sufficient for processing, iron amino acid chelate, zinc gluconate, copper gluconate, niacin (vitamin B3), manganese gluconate, vitamin A supplement, thiamine mononitrate (vitamin B1), pyridoxine hydrochloride (vitamin B6), riboflavin (vitamin B2), cholecalciferol (source of vitamin D3), potassium iodide, folic acid, vitamin B12 supplement.
| Crude Protein | Crude Fat | Crude Fiber | Moisture |
|---|---|---|---|
| 8% max | 4% max | 1% max | 77% max |
Price
- Starts at $24 per week. Prices vary based on your dog’s size, your plan, and selected recipes.
Our Personal Experience With Nom Nom Dog Food
Tiny’s first meal from Nom Nom was a big hit. The food came well-sealed, and all the ingredients looked and smelled very fresh. We mixed half Nom Nom with half of his current kibble on the first try (to help him transition). He was beyond excited to see what all this fuss was about and gobbled up everything in no time. But would he be this enthusiastic after a few meals?
After a week, I’m happy to report that Tiny is still a huge fan of his Nom Nom meals. After a few days, he even started spitting out the kibble on the floor to get to the good stuff! I tried to get this on video, but he wouldn’t perform on cue. I had been worried about potential digestive issues with a pretty drastic diet change, but the side effects were surprisingly minimal. On day three, his tummy seemed a bit unsettled, but by day four, he was back to normal.
After a month, Tiny still loves his new diet, and I’ve even noticed that his coat is looking healthier than ever!
– Sally Jones, Rescue Dog Mom, Canine Journal Writer & Editor
Full Nom Nom Dog Food Review
Learn more about Nom Nom in our full review. We also cover Nom Nom pricing and compare it to other top brands like Ollie and The Farmer’s Dog.
Best Wet Or Canned Dog Food For Picky Eaters: PetPlate Barkin’ Beef Review
PetPlate may sound familiar; it was featured on the hit ABC show Shark Tank. Though the Sharks passed on making a deal, the company has seen great success. PetPlate makes fresh, gently baked dog food recipes from human-grade, USDA-certified, all-natural ingredients. PetPlate personalizes food for each pup, taking lifestyle and health concerns into account.
PetPlate’s recipes are formulated by board-certified veterinary nutritionists. The food is freshly prepared and then shipped to you frozen. Meal plans and costs vary depending on your dog’s specific needs. They also have treats you can add to your order, which are made from the same top-notch ingredients. Below, I break down the Barkin’ Beef recipe.
Ingredients:
Ground beef, sweet potatoes, white potatoes, beef liver, peas, carrots, vinegar, apples, dicalcium phosphate, safflower oil, potato starch, salmon oil, salt, calcium carbonate, natural flavor, Minerals (ferrous fumarate, magnesium oxide, copper amino acid complex, zinc oxide, potassium iodide, manganese amino acid complex, sodium selenite), Vitamins (vitamin E supplement, vitamin D3 supplement, riboflavin [vitamin B2], thiamine mononitrate [vitamin B1], pyridoxine hydrochloride [vitamin B6]), mixed tocopherols (a preservative), malt extract, potassium carbonate, taurine, choline bitartrate, l-threonine.
| Crude Protein | Crude Fat | Crude Fiber | Moisture |
|---|---|---|---|
| 7.9% max | 5.5% max | 0.9% max | 74.7% max |
Price
- Starts at $2.50 per day and varies based on your dog’s size and meal plan.
Our Personal Experience With PetPlate Dog Food
We switched from feeding our dogs 100% dry kibble to mixing the kibble 50/50 with PetPlate after seeing it on Shark Tank. The company makes meals with natural ingredients, including meat (turkey, beef, chicken, or lamb) cooked with fresh veggies (carrots, peas, potatoes, sweet potatoes, cauliflower, pumpkin, etc.). They prepare the food fresh, then freeze it and ship it to our doorstep.
At first, we tried it out to see how our dogs would react to such a treat. But, as it turned out, our dog Lily, who used to be a very finicky eater, immediately gobbled her PetPlate food up and ate the mixed-in kibble as well! She went from a dog who only ate one of two meals every day to a member of the clean plate club every time! This was enough to convince us to add PetPlate to our regular feeding routine.
We continue to feed 50/50 kibble because it makes this a more economical choice and keeps our dogs’ teeth cleaner, thanks to the abrasion of the harder food.
– Michelle Schenker, Rescue Dog Parent, Canine Journal Co-Founder & Licensed Insurance Agent
Detailed PetPlate Review
Learn more about PetPlate in our detailed review. We also sat down for an interview with PetPlate’s founder to get some details about the motivation behind the brand.
Best Dry Dog Food For Picky Eaters: Sundays For Dogs Chicken Review
Do you love the idea of fresh dog food but want a shelf-stable option? Sunday’s For Dogs might be just what you are looking for. The kibble is air-dried and uses human-grade ingredients. Sundays’ recipes do not have fillers, wheat, gluten, potatoes, soy, or dairy.
Sundays’ air-dried kibble is dense, so dogs don’t need as much of it as they do traditional dog food. Veterinary nutritionists and food scientists develop recipes, and all preparation is done in a USDA-audited kitchen. This is a subscription service, and you can pick which recipe you want and the delivery frequency. You can also make a one-time purchase.
Sundays For Dogs uses whole food ingredients and offers three recipes: beef, chicken, and turkey. Every batch of food is tested for quality and foodborne disease. You can try a free sample of any recipe; just pay for shipping. Sunday’s food is grain-inclusive. It stays fresh while unopened for 12 months and for six to eight weeks after opening. So it won’t take up the freezer room and stays fresh longer than some other delivery options. Our testers tried out the chicken recipe, which is broken down below.
Ingredients:
Chicken, Chicken Liver, Egg, Millet, Oat, Pumpkin, Kale, Ground Bone, Fish Oil, Sea Salt, Flaxseed, Parsley, Turmeric, Chicory Root, Kelp, Mixed Tocopherols, (Preservative), Ginger, Blueberries, Carrots, Apples, Tomatoes, Shiitake Mushrooms, Broccoli, Oranges, Cranberries, Spinach, Beets, Tart Cherries, Strawberries.
| Crude Protein | Crude Fat | Crude Fiber | Moisture |
|---|---|---|---|
| 35% max | 20% max | 2% max | 15% max |
Price
- Varies by recipe and dog’s size see all options
Our Personal Experience With Sundays For Dogs
My picky eater, Tiny, absolutely loves Sundays’ chicken formula. He gobbles up his bowl within minutes compared to his usual reaction to dry food (he often leaves his bowl largely uneaten for hours). We transitioned gradually from his old food to Sundays with absolutely no digestive issues! After weeks on his new diet, he still loves every mealtime.
– Sally Jones, Rescue Dog Mom, Canine Journal Writer & Editor
Full Sundays For Dogs Review
We’ve reviewed Sunday’s For Dogs in more detail in our full review and in our cost breakdown.
Best Small Breed Dog Food For Picky Eaters: Jinx Dog Food Review
Jinx is a more traditional kibble made with all-natural ingredients. Jinx has four recipes powered by superfood ingredients, using lean meat, plant-based proteins, probiotics, and vegetables. They have both grain-inclusive and grain-free recipes.
Jinx also makes three wet food recipes, so you can add even more variety to your pup’s bowl. They also have toppers and treats. These include dental sticks, freeze-dried dog food toppers, and jerky treats. You can set up a subscription and save a bit or make a one-time purchase. Jinx donates some of their proceeds from every purchase to shelter dogs, and you get to pick the shelter when you check out.
Our dog testers liked both the kibble and the treats. The kibble size is perfect for smaller breeds. You can grab a sampler pack to try out all the recipes, including one just for puppies. Our pups tried out the Atlantic Salmon recipe, and it was a huge hit.
Ingredients:
Salmon, Pearled Barley, Ground Peas, Turkey Meal, Brown Rice, Chicken Fat (Preserved with Mixed Tocopherols), Menhaden Fish Meal, Oat Groats, Sweet Potato, Potato Protein, Dried Plain Beet Pulp, Natural Flavor, Flaxseed Meal, Whitefish Meal, Salmon Oil, Brewers Dried Yeast, Monocalcium Phosphate, Salt, Calcium Carbonate, Carrots, Pumpkin, Cranberry, Coconut Meal, Chia, Kelp, Alfalfa, Miscanthus Grass, Inulin, Taurine, Choline Chloride, Minerals (Zinc Sulfate, Ferrous Sulfate, Copper Sulfate, Manganous Oxide, Sodium Selenite, Calcium Iodate), Mixed Tocopherols (Preservative), Citric Acid (Preservatives), Vitamins (Vitamin E Supplement, Niacin Supplement, L-Ascorbyl-2-Polyphosphate, Vitamin A Supplement, Thiamine Mononitrate, d-Calcium Pantothenate, Pyridoxine Hydrochloride, Biotin, Riboflavin Supplement, Vitamin D3 Supplement, Folic Acid, Vitamin B12 Supplement), Blueberry, Spinach, Turmeric, Ginger, Chamomile, Parsley, Apple, Dandelion, Dried Spearmint, Cinnamon, Dried Bacillus coagulans Fermentation Product, Rosemary Extract.
| Crude Protein | Crude Fat | Crude Fiber | Moisture |
|---|---|---|---|
| 27% max | 14% max | 5% max | 10% max |
Price
- Kibble starts at $18 for a one-time purchase
Our Personal Experience With Jinx Dog Food
I typically feed my pup commercial kibble. Usually, when I put it in his bowl, he sniffs it and moves on until he gets super hungry. Let’s just say his usual kibble isn’t a big hit. But when I put Jinx’s kibble in his bowl, he sniffed it for a good second and gobbled it up right away. He loved it! Kibble can be easier to give your dogs than fresh meals, but I always worry about the quality of his dried nuggets. However, I felt more confident that my dog was getting a better meal with Jinx.
-Sally Jones, Rescue Dog Mom, Canine Journal Writer & Editor
In-Depth Jinx Dog Food Review
We get into much more detail in our full Jinx dog food review. You can learn even more in our interview with Jinx CEO and Co-Founder Terri Rockovich.
Best For Large Breeds: American Journey Salmon & Brown Rice Review
American Journey is Chewy’s in-house brand and is fairly new to the dog food market. They make both grain-inclusive and grain-free options as well as dry and wet food. American Journey has multiple options, such as puppy food, senior recipes, limited ingredients, weight management, and more.
For picky eaters, the limited-ingredient recipes are full of nutrition and flavor but free of fillers and unneeded additives. Recipes use healthy animal proteins, fiber, fat, and carbs. Healthy grains like brown rice and oatmeal are used instead of corn, wheat, or soy. Instead, recipes use real fruits and veggies that offer antioxidants, vitamins, and proteins, like salmon, which provide omega 3 and 6 fatty acids to support skin and coat health. Our canine testers tried out the Salmon & Sweet Potato recipe.
Ingredients:
Deboned Salmon, Menhaden Fish Meal, Brown Rice, Peas, Rice Bran, Chicken Fat (Preserved with Mixed Tocopherols), Natural Flavor, Flaxseed, Dried Tomato Pomace, Suncured Alfalfa Meal, Dried Plain Beet Pulp, Salt, Oatmeal, Dried Egg Product, Carrots, Sweet Potatoes, L-Threonine, Choline Chloride, Taurine, Vitamins (Vitamin E Supplement, Niacin Supplement, d-Calcium Pantothenate, Riboflavin Supplement, Vitamin A Supplement, Thiamine Mononitrate, Pyridoxine Hydrochloride, Vitamin B12 Supplement, Vitamin D3 Supplement, Folic Acid), Blueberries, Cranberries, Dried Kelp, Minerals (Ferrous Sulfate, Zinc Proteinate, Zinc Sulfate, Iron Proteinate, Copper Sulfate, Sodium Selenite, Copper Proteinate, Manganese Sulfate, Manganese Proteinate, Calcium Iodate), Mixed Tocopherols (Preservative), Dried Chicory Root, Yucca Schidigera Extract, Rosemary Extract.
| Crude Protein | Crude Fat | Crude Fiber | Moisture |
|---|---|---|---|
| 25% max | 15% max | 6% max | 10% max |
Price
- $54.14 for a 28 lb bag
Our Personal Experience With American Journey Dog Food
Our dog Barley was suffering from anal gland issues, so we did an elimination diet and found he was allergic to poultry. When I was looking for poultry-free dog food for Barley, I also focused on higher fiber to further support anal gland health. So we landed on this food, which is fish-based and also 6% fiber (a little higher than average). Since switching to the American Journey food 6 months ago, Barley has had zero anal gland issues.
– Michelle Schenker, Rescue Dog Parent, Canine Journal Co-Founder & Licensed Insurance Agent
Detailed American Journey Dog Food Review
You can learn more about the different recipes that American Journey offers in our full review. We also compare it to other brands like Blue Buffalo.
Best For Picky Eaters With Sensitive Stomachs: Natural Balance Limited Ingredient Plant Powered Recipe Review
For some picky eaters, a vegetarian diet can work wonders. I know vegetarian dog food is not something you think of right away, but it can be a game-changer for some pups. Natural Balance has one of the top vegan-based dog foods available. The limited-ingredient Plant Powered vegetarian recipe uses 18% plant proteins, has a savory flavor, and provides complete nutrition for adult dogs. Recipes are formulated with a veterinarian and are nutritionally complete for adult dogs.
Omega 3 and 6 fatty acids are added to support skin and coat health, and these recipes have the right balance of fiber to promote healthy digestion. Added taurine supports heart health.
Meat-free kibbles that taste good can be hard to find, but our canine testers approve of this one. The kibble is crunchy and easy to digest, and there is also a vegetarian wet food option, so your pup can have some variety in texture. Natural Balance also makes a vegetarian recipe for small breeds.
Ingredients:
Brown Rice, Oat Groats, Pearled Barley, Peas, Potato Protein, Canola Oil (Preserved With Mixed Tocopherols), Potatoes, Dicalcium Phosphate, Natural Vegetable Flavor, Tomato Pomace, Calcium Carbonate, Taurine, Dl-Methionine, Potassium Chloride, Choline Chloride, Salt, Minerals (Zinc Proteinate, Zinc Sulfate, Ferrous Sulfate, Iron Proteinate, Copper Sulfate, Copper Proteinate, Sodium Selenite, Manganese Sulfate, Manganese Proteinate, Calcium Iodate), Vitamins (Vitamin E Supplement, Vitamin A Supplement, D-Calcium Pantothenate, Niacin Supplement, Biotin, Riboflavin Supplement, Vitamin D2 Supplement, Vitamin B12 Supplement, Thiamine Mononitrate, Pyridoxine Hydrochloride, Folic Acid), Flaxseed, Citric Acid (Preservative), Mixed Tocopherols (Preservative), Parsley, Spinach, L-Lysine Monohydrochloride, Cranberries, L-Carnitine, Kelp Meal, Yucca Schidigera Extract, L-Ascorbyl-2-Polyphosphate, Rosemary Extract.
| Crude Protein | Crude Fat | Crude Fiber | Moisture |
|---|---|---|---|
| 18% max | 8% max | 5% max | 10% max |
Price
Our Personal Experience With Natural Balance Plant-Powered Dog Food
My 2.5-year-old pup is on a meat-free diet as a recommendation from his vet to minimize anal gland issues. Our picky eater tried several different dog food brands before we finally landed on Natural Balance. Before, he would refuse to eat wet or kibble, but he gobbles this plant-based food right up, and his bowels are regular again. I love that it has no poultry or meat products (since he has a sensitivity to them).
However, keep in mind it’s grain-free (which is a must for heart-health). The bag isn’t reselable which isn’t a deal-breaker since we put it in another container. And on Amazon subscribe and save it auto-ships every month when we need it and reduces the cost (or remembering to need to buy more food).
– Sadie Cornelius, Cavalier King Charles Spaniel Parent, Canine Journal Creative & Marketing
In-Depth Natural Balance Dog Food Review
Our full Natural Balance review covers more of the brand’s products and recipes. You can also learn about other vegetarian dog foods, like v-dog and Bramble.
Best Puppy Food For Picky Eaters: Raised Right Puppy Growth Review
Raised Right is another human-grade dog food company. If you have a picky puppy, this brand stands out. They are one of the few fresh pet food companies that make a puppy-specific formula. Raised Right Puppy Growth food comes in three recipes: turkey, chicken, and beef. All recipes use fresh ingredients, animal proteins, organ meats, and superfoods like kelp, carrots, and cranberries. Recipes are limited ingredients, fresh, and tasty. They are bound to appeal to just about any picky puppy palate.
You can set up a subscription to Raised Right or purchase boxes as needed. Purchases are made by box, which can have 4, 8, or 16 bags in them. Our puppy tester, Falkor, could not get enough of this stuff. Below, I break down the turkey recipe.
Ingredients:
Turkey thigh, turkey heart, turkey liver, carrots, blueberries, organic spearmint, dicalcium phosphate, cod liver oil, egg shell powder, flaxseed oil, organic dried kelp, sea salt, zinc amino acid chelate, copper amino acid chelate
| Crude Protein | Crude Fat | Crude Fiber | Moisture |
|---|---|---|---|
| 19% max | 7% max | 2% max | 68% max |
Price
- $10.99 per 1lb bag
My Personal Experience With Raised Right Puppy Food
When I adopted my puppy Falkor, a Poodle Beagle mix, he was a rescue, and I did not know much about the food he had been on. He was very young and did not like puppy kibble. So, I purchased a few bags of Raised Right Puppy food. He loved the stuff and started eating it right away. I started using it as a topper, mixing it in with his puppy kibble, and he started eating quite a bit more. While it is not his regular diet now, when he was a puppy, it really helped get him on a regular, healthy diet.
Full Raised Right Review
We cover more details and the brand’s different recipes in our full Raised Right Dog Food review.
Honorable Mention
There are a few other popular brands our picky canine testers tried out. If the fresh food brands above don’t meet your budget, one of these honorable mentions might be a good choice.
Freshpet Select Dog Food Review
Freshpet is another easy option for picky pups. It is widely available in pet and grocery stores and is budget-friendly. The food is made with fresh ingredients and has a wide selection. The loaves are great to mix in as a topper or a full and complete meal. Freshpet uses farm-raised meats, eggs, organ meats, and fresh fruits and veggies. Recipes are formulated with the help of a veterinarian, and the brand requires no subscription. Our picky pooch tester, Daisy, loves the chicken recipe.
Ingredients:
Chicken, Chicken Broth, Chicken Liver, Spinach, Potatoes, Eggs, Pea Fiber, Carrageenan, Natural Flavors, Salt, Potassium Chloride, Celery Powder
| Crude Protein | Crude Fat | Crude Fiber | Moisture |
|---|---|---|---|
| 10% max | 6% max | 2% max | 78% max |
Price
My Personal Experience With Freshpet Select Dog Food
I have purchased Freshpet loaves in the past. I used these cubed up and mixed in with my older dog Daisy’s regular dry kibble. She is starting to be picky about her dry food, and this is a good way to add moisture and flavor variety. Daisy enjoys the flavor and loaf texture. This is not a regular, daily meal for her. Instead, it is more of a special treat due to the higher price point. This is an occasional purchase from the local grocery store for a treat or to entice her to eat if she is being really stubborn. It is easy to locate in my area and does not require a subscription or long-term commitment, which is why I chose it. I also like the variety of recipes available.
Detailed Freshpet Review
You can get more details about Freshpet and its full product line in our detailed Freshpet dog food review.
Stella & Chewy’s Review
Stella & Chewy’s is another fantastic choice for picky pups. It’s one of my personal favorite brands. They offer a wide variety of all-natural products, including frozen and freeze-dried foods, kibbles, toppers, treats, and more.
Stella & Chewy’s Chicken Meal Mixers is a freeze-dried raw food topper that most picky dogs love. The highly-rated food topper provides owners with tasty, chewable pieces of cage-free freeze-dried chicken, chicken organs, and bones. Fruits and vegetables are also included to make this topper not only delicious but nutritious. Reviewers love that Stella and Chewy’s adds a flavor punch that gets their dog eating and is also packed with added nutritional benefits.
For picky pups who are especially particular about texture or for those known to just pick out toppers and leave the rest behind, Stella & Chewy’s has a freeze-dried “dinner dust” option. This dust still has all the benefits of its original topper, with the formula maintaining 95% meat, organs, bones, and organic fruits and vegetables.
My Personal Experience With Stella & Chewy’s Dog Food
My picky dog, Falkor, loves Stella & Chewy’s wet stews. He generally eats kibble throughout the day with wet food mixed in at dinnertimes. I tried Stella & Chewy’s because they make the Lil’ Bites Savory Stews recipes. He is a smaller dog, just about 24 pounds, and I prefer to stick with small-breed food if I can. He tried the Lil’ Bites Savory Stews Chicken & Chicken Liver Dinner in Broth.
Lil’ Bites has no wheat, soy, or meat by-products, which are things I look for in his food. I try to pick food that names the animal protein, and this recipe starts with chicken, chicken broth, and chicken liver. Falkor likes the taste and gobbles it up quickly. I often mix in some kibble or rice to make him feel fuller. I also use these and the freeze-dried patties as a topper for my senior dog.
Detailed Stella & Chewy’s Dog Food Review
You can learn more about what Stella & Chewy’s has to offer in our in-depth review.
Other Brands To Consider
Here at Canine Journal, we have tested countless kinds of dog food and treats. Below are a few other recipes to consider for your picky eater.
- Taste of the Wild Pacific Stream
- Purina Pro Plan Complete Essentials
- Fromm Game Bird Recipe
- Honest Kitchen Dog Food
- Rachael Ray Nutrish
- Nutro Hearty Stews
- Instinct Raw Boost Mixers
10 Tips For Feeding A Choosy Pup
Fear not, pet parents, for there are paw-some ways to win over your picky pooch!
- Rotation Diet: Consider rotating between different flavors and textures of high-quality dog food. Variety can add spice to their dining experience and satisfy their curious taste buds.
- Mealtime Fun: Turn mealtime into a playful adventure! Use food puzzles, treat-dispensing toys, or even create a “sniff-and-seek” game in the backyard to make dining exciting.
- Find fiber-rich food options that promote healthy digestion for sensitive stomachs.
- No free feeding. Limit treats, snacking, and table feeding.
- Find a high-quality food option that has lots of flavors for your dog to enjoy.
- Identify any allergies or indigestion triggers that may be making meals unpleasant.
- Level up your kibble by adding water and heating it up; some dogs like hot meals.
- You can also try homemade foods like shredded chicken or beef added to their food.
- Some dogs may need chicken-free dog food if they have a poultry allergy.
- Dogs should be fed a meat-based diet, but some pups like fruits and veggies mixed in.
Frequently Asked Questions
I see a lot of questions about dogs that are picky eaters. I’ve answered some of the most frequently asked below. If I missed yours, or you have a favorite brand of dog food that works for your picky pup, let me know in the comments.
Am I Enabling My Picky Eater?
If you are feeding your dog lots of snacks between meals, sneaking table scraps, or allowing free-feeding, you may be enabling picky eating habits. Limiting these behaviors can help increase your dog’s appetite around mealtime.
Why Has My Dog Suddenly Started Being Choosy With Food?
Sudden changes in your dog’s behavior should always be noted. It’s best to take your pup to the vet to rule out any health concerns that could be contributing to their loss of appetite. Your dog may be just going through a phase, and the pickiness will clear up on its own, but it’s best to have a trained medical professional make that determination.
How Should I Introduce New Food To My Picky Eater?
The answer is to do it very slowly. Slowly introduce the new food to your dog’s diet by mixing it with their old food in gradually increasing increments over the next few weeks. Too much change too quickly can result in stomach upset, pain, diarrhea, and even blood in your pup’s stools.
Are Some Dog Breeds More Prone To Being Picky Eaters?
All dogs can be picky eaters, but there are a few breeds that are more likely to have a fussy stomach. These breeds include Bichon Frise, Boston Terriers, Cavalier King Charles Spaniels, Chihuahuas, Dachshunds, French Bulldogs, Greyhounds, Japanese Chins, Pugs, Shih Tzus, and Yorkshire Terriers. Of course, this list is not all-inclusive. Remember that individual dogs within any breed or mixed breeds may vary in their eating habits, and needs can also be influenced by various factors such as age, health, and past experiences. Either way, working with your veterinarian to ensure they are getting a balanced and nutritious diet that meets their specific needs is essential.
What About Alternative Diets?
Some dog owners and veterinarians will turn to alternative diets to help with a dog’s picky eating or digestive issues. The popularity of feeding household companion pets a raw meat diet has risen in recent years. While the idea of feeding your sweet and snuggly pup raw meat and bones may seem gross and even barbaric, advocates for this diet argue this is how their canine ancestors survived for thousands of years.
Vitamins and minerals are still just as important in a meat-based diet. Your pup can receive essential minerals that they need to survive, such as calcium and phosphorus, through animal bones. Their diet should feature about 1/3 of bones like chicken wings, turkey necks, beef tail bones, and lamb ribs. Their vitamins will come from nutrient-rich organs like the liver, kidney, and spleen of various animals. Learn more about commercial raw dog food like Maev and We Feed Raw in our detailed reviews.
Of course, the main component of a raw diet is muscle meat. These meats should be lean and comprise half of their intake as this will be their primary source of protein. It’s important to note that some consider this raw meat diet controversial. Remember, you should always consult with your vet before placing your picky eater on any alternative diets. They can review your meal plan and your specific dog’s medical history to determine whether the diet is safe and holistic.
Don’t Give Up On A Healthy Diet For Your Picky Pup
Though the challenge of getting a particularly food-fussy pup to eat a well-rounded diet can be stressful, don’t get discouraged and give up. Feeding your pup junk food will not help in the long run. A wholesome diet is the foundation of a long, healthy life. We cover 23 tricks to get your picky dog to eat, which may help. Along with that, we also discuss the secrets to a long life as a dog and how to make your dog’s environment happy, healthy, and safe.
Our Methodology
We analyze hundreds of dog food brands and individual formulas to provide our recommendations for the best nutrition. Each of the following elements helps us determine the best dog food for any dietary need. Our in-depth research includes:
- Scrutinizing all ingredients included in every formula
- Having firsthand experience with our dogs for many of the foods we recommend
- Assessing the guaranteed analysis for every formula, including protein, fat, fiber, and caloric content
- Investigating the latest scientific studies on dogs’ nutritional needs and benefits of ingredients
- Researching the specific dietary needs for breed sizes and health conditions
- Reading hundreds of customer reviews
- Staying informed on every dog food recall
- Diving into every pet food brand’s history and reputation
- Keeping on top of pet food trends
Unlike many other review sites, we give unbiased reviews based on countless hours of research. Our goal is to provide our readers with the healthiest options for their pups.
Why Trust Canine Journal?
Danielle has over thirty years of animal care experience. She has raised many rescue dogs, including those with medical issues such as epilepsy and food intolerance. Several of her dogs have been picky eaters, and she has learned many ways to help provide them with a healthy diet. Her dogs Daisy and Falkor have tested over 50 kinds of dog food and are both members of the picky pooch club. Danielle consulted with the team of dog owners and experts at Canine Journal to glean their personal experience feeding picky dogs and what foods they liked best. She spent over 10 hours researching and writing this article.
