What Is The Healthiest Dog Food? See Our Top Picks For All Types Of Diets

When you purchase through links on our site, we may earn a commission. Here’s how it works.

A healthy dog starts with a healthy bowl. But between trendy buzzwords and endless ingredient lists, finding food that’s actually good for your pup can feel overwhelming.

With so many options available, it can be hard to know which brands truly deliver on nutrition and which rely on clever marketing. To help you narrow it down, we’ve reviewed some of the healthiest dog food options on the market today.

Best Fresh	Best Kibble	Best Dehydrated	Best Freeze-Dried Raw
The Farmer’s Dog	Orijen	Spot & Tango	Open Farm
Visit Website	View on Amazon	Visit Website	Visit Website
Read Review	Read Review	Read Review	Read Review

All of the dog foods we’ve included in our reviews meet or exceed Association of American Feed Control Officials (AAFCO) nutritional guidelines, are made in the U.S., and contain no fillers, by-products, preservatives, or artificial ingredients.

Before You Buy: Healthy Feeding Reminders

Every dog’s nutritional needs are different. Breed, size, age, and health conditions all play a role in what “healthy” looks like for your pup. A food that’s perfect for one dog might not be right for another.

Here’s what to keep in mind before filling that bowl:

• Age matters. Puppies need calorie-dense food for growth, while seniors do best on lower-calorie, joint-supporting recipes.
• Size shapes nutrition. Small breeds often need energy-rich bites, while large breeds benefit from controlled calcium and joint supplements.
• Health conditions count. Dogs with allergies, heart disease, or weight struggles may need specialized formulas — sometimes prescription.
• Your vet is your best resource. Always discuss diet changes or health-specific needs before switching foods.

Want to fine-tune your dog’s feeding plan? Check out our guide on how much food to feed your dog.

6 Types Of Healthy Dog Food (And How To Pick The Right One)

There’s no single “healthiest” food that fits every pup. What works best depends on your dog’s lifestyle, preferences, and health needs. Some dogs thrive on fresh, human-grade meals, while others do better with traditional kibble or convenient freeze-dried options.

Let’s break down the most common healthy dog food types and what makes each one stand out.

1. Fresh & Raw Food

Fresh or raw food is as close as it gets to what dogs were built to eat. These meals are made from real meat, vegetables, and fruits you can actually recognize — no fillers, mystery powders, or artificial preservatives.

• Fresh food is gently cooked to retain nutrients while making proteins easier to digest.
• Raw food skips the cooking entirely, preserving enzymes and natural nutrients that may boost energy and coat health. (Avoid feeding raw to young puppies or dogs with immune issues.)
• Often human-grade, customized by age and activity, and delivered to your door through meal subscriptions.

Why it’s healthy: Less processing means higher nutrient retention, fresher taste, and fewer unnecessary additives.

If you’re unsure about the benefits and risks of a raw diet, read our in-depth article.

2. Dehydrated Dog Food

Dehydrated food offers a smart middle ground between fresh and kibble. Ingredients are gently dried at low temperatures, which removes moisture but keeps most of the nutrition intact.

• You simply add warm water to rehydrate before serving.
• Great for travel, storage, and picky eaters who prefer softer textures.
• Brands often use whole meats, veggies, and fruits with minimal processing.

Why it’s healthy: Dehydration preserves nutrients better than traditional cooking, and rehydration supports digestion and hydration — especially helpful for dogs that don’t drink much water.

3. Dry Kibble

Dry kibble is still the go-to option for many dog parents — and healthy choices exist here, too. The key is looking for recipes that prioritize whole, named animal proteins and skip cheap fillers.

• Look for meat or fish as the first ingredient, followed by nutrient-dense grains or veggies.
• Avoid formulas packed with corn, soy, wheat, or artificial colors and flavors.
• Kibble is the most affordable and shelf-stable option, and it’s easy to store or mix with fresh toppers for added nutrition.

Why it’s healthy: High-quality kibble provides complete, balanced nutrition when made from real food sources — and the crunchy texture helps clean teeth naturally.

4. Canned (Wet) Food

Canned or wet food brings flavor and hydration to mealtime. It’s ideal for picky eaters, senior dogs, or pups who need a moisture boost.

• Typically made with meat, broth, and vegetables, often in stew or pâté form.
• Choose recipes with real meat as the first ingredient and avoid thick gravies or “meat by-products.”
• Can be served alone or mixed with kibble for variety and added texture.

Why it’s healthy: The high moisture content supports kidney and urinary health, and many wet foods use fewer preservatives thanks to airtight packaging.

5. Air-Dried Dog Food

Air-dried recipes are a newer twist on raw feeding. Instead of high-heat cooking or freeze-drying, ingredients are slowly dried at low temperatures to remove moisture while keeping nutrients and flavor intact.

• Made from raw, whole ingredients that are air-dried until shelf-stable.
• Maintains a chewy texture dogs love — not crumbly like kibble or soft like fresh food.
• Typically uses human-grade meats, organ blends, and superfoods such as salmon oil, turmeric, or blueberries.

Why it’s healthy: Air-drying naturally preserves enzymes, fatty acids, and antioxidants without chemical preservatives. It’s nutrient-dense, safe, and easy to serve — a great balance of raw nutrition and convenience.

6. Freeze-Dried Raw Food

Freeze-dried raw food combines the best of raw feeding and convenience. The raw ingredients are frozen and then moisture-removed under pressure — locking in nutrients without heat damage.

• Can be served as-is or rehydrated with water or broth.
• Typically made with single-source animal proteins, organ meats, and whole vegetables.
• Great for pet parents who want raw nutrition without handling raw meat daily.

Why it’s healthy: Freeze-drying keeps enzymes, amino acids, and healthy fats intact, offering the nutrient density of raw with a long shelf life and lower risk of bacteria.

Ingredients To Look For In Healthy Food For Dogs

When it comes to nutrition, what’s inside the bag (or bowl) matters more than the brand name. The healthiest dog foods start with whole, natural ingredients and avoid unnecessary fillers, by-products, and artificial additives.

Here’s how to spot quality nutrition on the label.

1. Protein: The Building Block of Health

Whole, named animal proteins should be the first ingredient. Dogs thrive on meat-based diets because protein fuels their muscles, immune systems, and energy.

Look for:

• Chicken, beef, turkey, salmon, lamb, or other named meats.
• Meat meals (like chicken meal or fish meal) — these are concentrated sources of protein.
• Multiple protein sources for a balanced amino acid profile.

Avoid:

• Generic terms like “meat meal,” “animal by-product,” or “poultry flavor.”

2. Healthy Carbohydrates

Carbs give dogs energy, but not all carbs are the healthiest options. The best options come from whole grains and vegetables that also deliver fiber and nutrients. Complex carbs help regulate blood sugar and keep dogs feeling fuller longer.

Good carb sources:

• Oatmeal, brown rice, barley, quinoa, or sweet potatoes
• Lentils, peas, and chickpeas for plant-based protein and fiber
• Pumpkin for digestive health

3. Omega Fatty Acids: Skin, Coat & Brain Health

Not all fats are bad — in fact, the right ones are vital for your dog’s skin, brain, and joint health. Omega-3 and Omega-6 fatty acids reduce inflammation, boost coat shine, and support heart and brain function.

Look for:

• Fish oil, salmon oil, or flaxseed
• Chicken fat (a healthy animal fat when used moderately)
• Plant oils like sunflower or canola for omega-6s

4. Fruits & Vegetables: Natural Vitamin Boosters

Whole fruits and veggies add antioxidants, fiber, and phytonutrients that strengthen your dog’s immune system. They also support healthy digestion and long-term vitality.

Great choices:

• Blueberries, spinach, carrots, sweet potatoes, kale, broccoli
• Apples and pumpkin for fiber and digestion
• Cranberries for urinary health

5. Glucosamine & Chondroitin: Joint Support Superstars

These compounds help build and protect cartilage, keeping joints healthy, especially in large or senior dogs. They can prevent stiffness, support mobility, and reduce joint pain as dogs age.

Found in:

• Meat meals, green-lipped mussels, and eggs
• Added supplements in senior and large-breed formulas

6. Essential Amino Acids

Dogs need 10 essential amino acids that must come from their diet. These are the building blocks of protein and influence everything from muscle tone to organ function. Amino acids keep cells repairing, immune systems strong, and metabolism balanced.

Key ones to see on labels:

• Arginine, leucine, lysine, methionine, phenylalanine, tryptophan, valine, and others

7. Natural Preservatives (Not Chemicals)

Preservatives keep food safe and fresh, but choose the right kind.

Good options:

• Vitamin E (tocopherols)
• Vitamin C (ascorbic acid)
• Rosemary extract or peppermint

Avoid:

• BHA, BHT, and ethoxyquin are synthetic and potentially harmful.

8. Vitamins & Minerals

Dogs need a balanced mix of vitamins and minerals to support every major body function. Look for these essentials:

• Vitamin A → strengthens vision and immune response
• Vitamin B12 → supports nerve function
• Vitamin D → regulates calcium for bones and teeth
• Vitamin E & C → antioxidants that protect cells
• Vitamin K → supports blood clotting and bone health
• Iron, zinc, and selenium → build red blood cells and aid healing
• Calcium and phosphorus → maintain bone strength

Tip: Foods labeled “complete and balanced” and formulated under AAFCO guidelines meet minimum nutritional requirements for your dog’s life stage.

Healthiest Dog Food

You’ve seen what makes a diet healthy — now let’s look at some foods that actually deliver it. Each of the brands below uses high-quality ingredients, transparent sourcing, and nutrition designed to keep dogs thriving from puppyhood through senior years.

We’ve grouped them by food type so you can find the best fit for your dog’s lifestyle, whether you’re a fan of fresh, dry, or freeze-dried meals.

Healthiest Fresh Dog Food: Our Top Picks

Fresh food is made with human-grade ingredients and cooked gently to preserve nutrients. It’s the closest thing to a home-cooked meal — balanced, portioned, and vet-approved.

The Farmer’s Dog Review

Visit Website

The Farmer’s Dog consistently ranks among the healthiest fresh options thanks to its simple, transparent recipes made from 100% human-grade ingredients. Each meal is developed by certified veterinarians and customized to your dog’s age, size, ideal weight, activity level, and more.

Meals are gently cooked in USDA-certified kitchens, then delivered within days to preserve maximum freshness. Available recipes include beef, chicken, pork, and turkey, all made with real meat, vegetables, and lentils — no fillers or artificial preservatives.

Owners often notice positive changes after switching, from shinier coats and better digestion to increased energy and improved appetite. The personalized meal plans take the guesswork out of feeding — portions arrive pre-measured, ready to thaw and serve — making healthy eating convenient without sacrificing quality.

The packaging is fully recyclable and made from biodegradable materials, aligning with eco-conscious values while keeping your dog’s food safe and fresh.

Key Features

• Vet-developed, human-grade recipes
• All recipes are grain-free
• Cooked fresh in USDA-certified kitchens and flash frozen to preserve nutrients
• Personalized to each dog’s needs
• Ships within days of preparation
• Recyclable, biodegradable packaging

Price

• Plans start at $2/day
• Free shipping

Our readers have access to 50% off your first box. No code is needed; just use this link, and the discount will be applied.

Ollie Review

Visit Website

Ollie crafts vet-formulated, human-grade meals made with real meat, fruits, and vegetables — no fillers or by-products. Each plan is tailored to your dog’s profile, ensuring the right balance of protein, fat, nutrients, and calories for their age, size, and activity level.

Meals are gently cooked and flash-frozen to preserve flavor and nutrients. Dogs can choose from fresh recipes or Ollie’s baked line, which delivers the same wholesome ingredients in a crunchy, shelf-stable format.

Proteins come from trusted U.S. and Australian farms, and every recipe supports healthy digestion, shiny coats, and steady energy. The brand also gives back by donating 1% of revenue to animal rescue organizations — a small detail that makes a big difference.

Key Features

• Vet-developed, human-grade ingredients
• Fresh and baked recipes available
• Grain-free and grain-inclusive recipes
• Customized plans for each dog
• Sourced from trusted U.S. & Australian farms
• 1% of revenue supports rescue shelters

Price

• Full Fresh plans start at: $3.14/day
• Mixed Fresh & Baked plans start at: $2.72/day
• Half Fresh plans start at: $2/day
• Free shipping

Our readers can get 60% off their first box. Use this link ;to take advantage of this offer (no discount code needed).

Healthiest Kibble Options

While kibble often gets a bad rap for being overly processed, some brands use premium proteins, cleaner recipes, and minimal fillers to rival fresh food in nutrition.

Below are a few of the healthiest dry kibble options that deliver top-tier ingredients, balanced nutrition, and great taste — without breaking your budget or your dog’s diet.

Orijen Original Formula Review

View on Amazon | View on Chewy

Orijen Original is one of the most nutrient-dense dry foods available, made with 85% animal ingredients and no artificial preservatives, by-products, or fillers. The brand’s biologically appropriate philosophy mimics what dogs would eat in the wild — rich in meat, moderate in fat, and low in carbs.

This grain-free recipe includes chicken, turkey, salmon, whole herring, and chicken liver as the first five ingredients, supported by whole fruits and vegetables for natural fiber and antioxidants. Orijen avoids corn, wheat, and soy, instead using healthier grains like oats and quinoa in its grain-inclusive original recipe.

With 38% protein, 18% fat, and 4% fiber, this formula fuels active dogs while supporting lean muscle and digestive health. Owners often notice improved stamina, coat condition, and overall vitality, especially in high-energy breeds.

Key Features

• First 11 ingredients are animal proteins
• Contains whole fruits and vegetables, like pumpkin, collard greens, and cranberries
• Prebiotics and probiotics for gut health
• Omega-3 fatty acids for healthy skin & coat
• No corn, wheat, gluten, or soy
• Grain-free recipe

Price

• Starts at $24.48 (4.5-lb bag)

Blue Buffalo Life Protection Review

View on Amazon | View on Chewy

Blue Buffalo Life Protection Formula is one of the most popular and trusted kibble lines, known for its real meat-first recipes and wide variety of options for every breed, size, and life stage. Recipes include whole chicken, beef, lamb, or salmon as the first ingredient, as well as brown rice and garden vegetables, providing balanced protein, fiber, and essential nutrients.

The brand’s signature LifeSource Bits, which are small, cold-pressed kibble pieces, deliver a concentrated dose of vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants to support immune health. Blue Buffalo avoids artificial preservatives and BHA, offering both grain-inclusive and grain-free choices.

This formula strikes an excellent balance between quality and affordability, making it a solid everyday choice for families who want premium nutrition without the boutique price tag.

Key Features

• Real meat is always the first ingredient
• LifeSource Bits for antioxidant and vitamin support
• Omega fatty acids for skin and coat health
• Added glucosamine for joint health
• Options for puppies, adults, and seniors
• No artificial colors, flavors, or preservatives

Price

• Starts at $14.97 (5-lb bag)

Best Dehydrated Dog Food

Dehydrated dog food bridges the gap between fresh and dry feeding. It’s made by gently removing moisture at low heat, which preserves nutrients and flavor without the need for artificial preservatives.

Spot And Tango Unkibble Review

Visit Website

Spot & Tango UnKibble is a unique hybrid between fresh food and traditional kibble, made from 100% human-grade ingredients that are gently dried instead of baked. The result is a light, crunchy texture that retains the nutrition and taste of real meat and veggies.

Formulated by veterinarians and nutritionists, UnKibble recipes use whole-food ingredients like chicken, beef, or cod paired with sweet potatoes, carrots, and spinach. The food is minimally processed, free from artificial colors, preservatives, and fillers.

Each meal plan is customized to your dog’s breed, weight, and activity level, ensuring the right calorie count and nutrient mix. With 41% protein on average, it’s higher in protein than most standard kibbles while still easy to digest.

Key Features

• 100% human-grade, dehydrated ingredients (shelf-stable)
• Vet-formulated, personalized plans
• No artificial additives or fillers
• High nutritional value and great taste.
• Convenient subscription delivery

Price

• UnKibble plans start at $1/day
• Fresh plans start at $2/day
• Free shipping
• View all options

Our readers can save 55% off the first two weeks (plus free shipping, free customized scoop and free personalized feeding guide) using this link.

Healthiest Air-Dried Dog Food

Air-dried dog food is one of the newest and healthiest ways to feed your pup. It’s made by slowly drying raw ingredients at low temperatures, locking in nutrients without the high heat of kibble or the handling concerns of raw. The result? Shelf-stable food that looks and tastes like jerky — rich in protein, naturally preserved, and packed with flavor.

Badlands Ranch Superfood Complete Review

Visit Website

Badlands Ranch Superfood Complete combines air-dried raw nutrition with premium, whole-food ingredients you can actually recognize. Founded by actress and animal advocate Katherine Heigl, this brand focuses on clean, nutrient-dense feeding that benefits both pets and animal welfare causes.

Each batch is slowly air-dried to preserve the natural integrity of the ingredients while eliminating harmful pathogens. This recipe starts with ranch-raised beef and includes organ meats, salmon, flaxseed, sweet potatoes, pumpkin, and blueberries — delivering a balance of protein, healthy fats, antioxidants, and fiber.

Superfood Complete is rich in Omega-3 fatty acids, probiotics, and essential vitamins for healthy skin, joints, and digestion. Since it’s air-dried, it’s lightweight and concentrated, so a small portion goes a long way. Many owners notice improved stool quality, shinier coats, and better energy within a few weeks.

Badlands Ranch also donates a portion of every sale to animal rescue initiatives, reinforcing the brand’s mission to give back.

Key Features

• Air-dried raw nutrition made with ranch-raised beef
• Superfood ingredients: salmon, flaxseed, pumpkin & blueberries
• Packed with probiotics and Omega-3s
• Gently dried to retain nutrients and flavor
• Supports animal rescue organizations

Price

Badlands Ranch offers discounts if you purchase 3 or 6 bags at once. Shipping is free on orders over $50. Sign up for a free account with no subscription commitment for the price below.

• 24-oz bag: $39.95 (reg. $59.95)
• View all options 

Best Freeze-Dried Dog Food

Freeze-dried raw food delivers the nutritional punch of raw feeding with the safety and convenience of dry storage. By freezing ingredients first and then removing moisture under pressure, this method locks in natural nutrients, enzymes, and flavor while extending shelf life.

Open Farm Freeze-Dried Raw Review

Visit Website

Open Farm Freeze-Dried Raw meals are made from 95% animal ingredients, including muscle meat, organs, and bone, combined with organic fruits and vegetables for a complete, nutrient-dense diet. Each recipe is prepared raw, then gently freeze-dried to preserve flavor and nutrients without artificial preservatives or fillers.

Proteins are humanely raised and sustainably sourced, featuring options like grass-fed beef, pasture-raised lamb, pork, and wild-caught Pacific salmon. The recipes are rich in Omega-3s, amino acids, and antioxidants, supporting digestion, skin, and coat health.

Owners can serve it as a complete meal or crumble it over kibble as a nutrient-boosting topper. Its lightweight texture makes it a favorite for travel and easy feeding on the go.

Key Features

• Grain-free
• 95% humanely raised animal protein
• Prepared raw, then freeze-dried for safety and shelf life
• Organic fruits and vegetables
• No corn, soy, or artificial preservatives
• Works as a full meal or topper

Price

• Starts at $10.99 (3.14-oz bag)
• View all options

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

View on Amazon | View on Chewy

Stella & Chewy’s Super Beef Dinner Patties offer the nutrition of a raw diet in an easy, no-mess format – and they’re more budget-friendly than many competitors. Each patty is made with 95% grass-fed beef, organs, and bone, blended with organic fruits and vegetables like cranberries, spinach, and carrots for added vitamins and antioxidants.

The food is prepared raw and then freeze-dried to lock in nutrients and flavor without artificial preservatives or fillers. It’s suitable for dogs of all breeds and life stages and can be served as a complete meal or crumbled as a topper.

High-quality animal protein supports lean muscle, while added probiotics aid digestion. Many owners report improvements in skin health, coat shine, and stool quality after switching to Stella & Chewy’s. Patties also come in chicken, lamb, turkey, rabbit, duck, venison, and more.

Key Features

• 95% grass-fed beef, organs, and bone
• Prepared raw, then freeze-dried for convenience
• Organic fruits and vegetables for added nutrition
• Grain- and gluten-free
• Suitable for all breeds and life stages

Price

• Starts at $9.71 (5.5-oz bag)

Healthiest Canned Dog Food

Canned food gives dogs that irresistible meaty texture while adding extra moisture to their diet. It’s especially helpful for picky eaters, small breeds, or seniors who struggle with dry kibble. The key to healthy wet food is recognizable ingredients, lean protein, and minimal fat or gravy.

Here are our favorite canned options that deliver both taste and nutrition.

Wellness Complete Health Chicken Stew Review

View on Amazon | View on Chewy

Wellness Complete Health Chicken Stew is one of the healthiest wet food lines available, offering high-quality proteins and whole-food ingredients in a flavorful stew. Chicken and chicken broth are the first two ingredients, followed by chicken liver for added protein and nutrients.

This recipe blends peas, carrots, and potatoes for natural fiber and energy, with salmon oil to support skin and coat health. It’s available in both grain-inclusive and grain-free varieties, giving pet parents flexibility based on dietary needs.

Unlike many canned foods, Wellness avoids heavy gravies and artificial thickeners, keeping fat content moderate and flavor natural. Dogs love the taste and texture, and it pairs perfectly with dry kibble for added variety.

Key Features

• Real chicken and chicken broth as the first ingredients
• Balanced protein and moisture for hydration
• Includes salmon oil for omega-3s
• Grain-inclusive and grain-free options
• No artificial colors or preservatives

Price

• Starts at $48.96 (12.5-oz cans – pack of 12)

Taste of the Wild Sierra Mountain Review

View on Amazon

Taste of the Wild Sierra Mountain uses lamb as its primary protein, creating a hearty and easily digestible canned meal for dogs of all breeds and life stages. Lamb liver and roasted lamb deliver rich flavor and complete amino acids for lean muscle maintenance.

This grain-free recipe includes sweet potatoes, peas, and blueberries, plus salmon oil for Omega-3s that promote a healthy coat and strong joints. It’s formulated for all life stages, though many pet parents find it especially beneficial for picky eaters or dogs with grain sensitivities.

The texture is soft and moist, making it an excellent topper for kibble or a standalone meal. Taste of the Wild avoids artificial additives, relying on natural ingredients and probiotics for gut and immune support.

Key Features

• Lamb and lamb liver as the top ingredients
• Grain-free recipe with omega-rich salmon oil
• Includes probiotics for digestive health
• High in moisture for hydration support
• Suitable for all breeds and life stages

Price

• Starts at $37.99 (13-oz cans – pack of 12)

Healthy Nutrition, Happier Dogs

Nutrition is one of the most important choices you’ll make for your dog’s health. Whether you go fresh, kibble, dehydrated, or another path, choosing high-quality ingredients and balanced nutrition can add years of vitality and joy to your pup’s life.

What food does your dog thrive on? Share your experience in the comments — your recommendation could help another pup eat healthier today.

Our Methodology