Top 10 Premium Dog Food Brands in 2025, Recommended by Vets

Premium dog food means a high-quality food that meets all a dog’s nutritional needs based on age, breed, size, and health conditions. The best dog food has premium ingredients, such as high-protein animal sources, healthy fats, and essential vitamins and minerals. It avoids fillers like artificial colors, preservatives, and low-quality by-products. The right food helps support a dog’s overall health, energy levels, coat quality, and longevity.

Top 10 Premium Dog Food Brands

Veterinarians often recommend premium dog foods tailored to a dog’s specific health needs. Some of the premium dog food brands commonly recommended by vets include:

1. Hill's Science Diet

Hill’s Science Diet is the premium dog food choice, often recommended by vets for its high-quality, science-backed nutrition. Specially formulated with guidance from veterinarians and pet nutritionists, it provides balanced nutrition for dogs of all ages, sizes, and specific health conditions, including allergies and digestive issues.

Benefits of Hill's Science Diet:

Recommended by Vets: Developed by experts for optimal pet health.
High-quality ingredients: Uses real meat, whole grains, and essential nutrients without artificial preservatives or flavors.
Tailored nutrition: Offers life-stage formulas for puppies, adults, and seniors, plus diets for weight control, sensitive stomachs, and joint health.
Clinically Proven Benefits: Rich in antioxidants, omega fatty acids, and prebiotics to support immunity, skin health, and digestion.

Hill’s Science Diet Formula:

Formula	Applies To
✔ Puppy Formula	Supports brain and muscle development.
✔ Adult Large Breed	Promotes strong joints and lean muscles.
✔ Sensitive Stomach & Skin	Ideal for dogs with digestive issues and skin allergies.
✔ Weight Management	Low-calorie formula for maintaining a healthy weight.

Is Hill's Science Diet a Good Dog Food?

Hill’s Science Diet is highly rated and trusted for its nutritional value and scientific approach, making it one of the premium dog food options. It’s an excellent choice for dogs with specific dietary needs, though pet owners looking for grain-free or raw-based diets may prefer other brands.

2. Royal Canin

Royal Canin is a premium dog food brand known for its scientifically formulated recipes tailored to specific breeds, sizes, and health conditions. Vet-recommended for its precise nutrition and high-quality ingredients, it supports digestion, weight management, and overall health.

Benefits:

Recommended by Vets – Frequently recommended by veterinarians for its balanced and research-backed nutrition.
Joint & Bone Support – Formulated with glucosamine and chondroitin for improved joint health.
Weight Management Options – Specialized diets for overweight dogs to maintain a healthy weight.
High-Quality Ingredients – Uses premium ingredients with essential vitamins and minerals for optimal nutrition.

Formula:

Formula	Applies To
✔ Breed-Specific Formulas	Customized nutrition for Labrador Retrievers, German Shepherds, and French Bulldogs.
✔ Puppy Formula	Supports healthy growth and development with DHA and prebiotics.
✔ Digestive Care	Gentle on the stomach, ideal for dogs with sensitive digestion.
✔ Weight Management	A low-calorie formula to help maintain an ideal weight.

Is Royal Canin a Good Dog Food?

Royal Canin is a highly rated and vet-recommended dog food brand known for its research-based nutrition. It is an excellent choice for dogs with specific dietary requirements, though pet owners looking for grain-free or raw-based diets may prefer other alternatives.

3. Orijen

Orijen is one of the premium dog food brands, offering biologically appropriate nutrition with high-quality, fresh ingredients. Known for its high protein content and regional meats, it mirrors a dog’s natural diet. This formula supports the health and vitality of all dogs, and it’s vet-recommended for its protein-rich, whole-prey recipes.

Benefits of Orijen:

Biologically Appropriate – Made with a high percentage of fresh, regional meats to reflect a dog’s natural diet.
High-Quality Ingredients – This product features a combination of free-run poultry, wild-caught fish, and whole eggs, with no fillers like grains or potatoes.
Protein-Rich Recipes – These recipes use 85% animal ingredients, including muscle meat, organs, and cartilage, to support lean muscle mass and overall health.
Supports Healthy Digestion – Includes high-quality animal proteins, prebiotics, and probiotics to help maintain gut health.

Orijen Formula:

Formula	Applies To
✔ Original Formula	Dogs of all sizes, featuring a mix of chicken, turkey, and fish.
✔ Regional Red	Dogs that thrive on red meat, with beef, pork, and lamb.
✔ Six Fish	Dogs with food sensitivities, made with wild-caught fish.
✔ Puppy Formula	Growing puppies needing high protein and DHA for brain and eye development.

Is Orijen a Good Dog Food?

Orijen is a vet-recommended premium dog food brand known for its high-protein, meat-focused, and biologically appropriate formulas. Ideal for dogs with active lifestyles or those needing a grain-free, protein-rich diet, it may not be suitable for those seeking lower-protein or grain-based options.

4. Wellness CORE

Wellness CORE is a premium dog food brand known for its high-protein, grain-free formulas made with quality proteins like turkey, chicken, and salmon. Vet-recommended for its nutrient-dense recipes, it supports digestion, skin, and coat health, making it ideal for active dogs and those needing a protein-rich diet.

Benefits of Wellness CORE:

High-Protein, Grain-Free – Made with high-quality animal proteins to support lean muscle mass without grains or fillers.
High-Quality Ingredients – Features turkey, chicken, and salmon, providing essential nutrients for overall well-being.
Protein-Rich Recipes – Uses 80% animal ingredients to deliver the protein needed to fuel active dogs.
Supports Healthy Digestion – Includes probiotics and fiber to support gut health and digestion.

Wellness CORE Formula:

Formula	Applies To
✔ Original Formula	Balanced recipe with turkey & chicken, suitable for all life stages.
✔ RawRev	Includes raw, freeze-dried meat for an extra protein boost.
✔ Grain-Free Reduced Fat	Designed for weight management with fewer calories & high protein.
✔ Small Breed	Tailored formula with smaller kibble & high protein for small dogs.

Is Wellness CORE a Good Dog Food?

Wellness CORE is a vet-recommended premium dog food brand praised for its high-protein, grain-free recipes. It’s an excellent choice for active dogs and those needing a protein-rich, nutrient-dense diet. While ideal for most dogs, it may not suit those seeking lower-protein or grain-inclusive options.

5. Acana

Acana is a premium dog food brand known for its biologically appropriate, high-protein formulas made with fresh, regional ingredients. Featuring animal proteins like chicken, turkey, and fish, Acana offers balanced nutrition that supports overall health and vitality. Vet-recommended for its nutrient-rich recipes, Acana promotes digestion, energy, and muscle maintenance, making it ideal for dogs needing a protein-rich, grain-free diet.

Benefits of Acana

High-Protein, Grain-Free – Made with high-quality animal proteins to support lean muscle mass and overall health.
High-Quality Ingredients – This product features fresh meats like chicken, turkey, and fish, with no fillers or grains.
Protein-Rich Recipes – Uses up to 75% animal ingredients to provide essential protein and energy.
Supports Healthy Digestion – Includes fiber and probiotics to maintain a healthy digestive system.

Acana Formulas

Formula	Applies To
✔ Original Formula	Well-rounded chicken, turkey, and fish recipe suitable for all life stages.
✔ Regionals Series	Made with regional ingredients like lamb, duck, or pork for variety.
✔ Grasslands	A unique formula with fresh chicken, turkey, and fish for a protein-packed meal.
✔ Puppy & Junior	Formulated for growing puppies with balanced protein and DHA for brain development.

Is Acana a Good Dog Food?

Acana is a vet-recommended premium dog food brand praised for its high-quality, protein-rich recipes. It’s an excellent choice for dogs needing a high-protein, grain-free diet. While ideal for most dogs, it may not suit those seeking lower-protein or grain-inclusive diets.

6. Nutro

Nutro is a premium dog food brand known for its high-quality, natural ingredients and a wide range of formulas designed to meet the nutritional needs of all dogs. With a focus on real meat and a balance of essential nutrients, Nutro supports overall health, vitality, and well-being. Vet-recommended for its clean ingredients and scientifically formulated recipes, Nutro offers tailored nutrition to promote healthy digestion, skin, coat, and energy levels.

Benefits of Nutro

High-Quality, Natural Ingredients – Made with real meat and no artificial additives or fillers.
Supports Healthy Digestion – Includes fiber and prebiotics to maintain a healthy digestive system.
Supports Skin & Coat Health – Omega-6 fatty acids promote a shiny coat and healthy skin.
Made with Non-GMO Ingredients – Nutro uses non-GMO ingredients to ensure quality.

Nutro Formula

Formula	Applies To
✔ Ultra Grain-Free	A high-protein, grain-free formula with chicken, lamb, and salmon for active dogs.
✔ Wholesome Essentials	Made with farm-raised chicken and brown rice, ideal for adult dogs.
✔ Limited Ingredient Diet	Designed for dogs with food sensitivities or allergies, made with limited ingredients.
✔ Puppy Formula	Includes DHA for brain and eye development in growing puppies.

Is Nutro a Good Dog Food?

Nutro is a vet-recommended premium dog food brand praised for its high-quality, natural ingredients. It’s an excellent choice for dogs needing balanced nutrition with a focus on real meats and digestive support. While ideal for most dogs, it may not suit those seeking a grain-free or raw-based diet.

7. Taste of the Wild

Taste of the Wild is a premium dog food brand known for its high-protein, grain-free formulas that mirror a dog’s ancestral diet. Made with real meats like bison, roasted venison, and wild boar, Taste of the Wild provides a nutrient-rich diet to support energy, muscle tone, and overall health. Vet-recommended for its high-quality ingredients, it also includes probiotics for digestive health and omega fatty acids to promote skin and coat health.

Benefits of Taste of the Wild

High-Protein, Grain-Free – Made with high-quality animal proteins to support lean muscle mass and overall health.
Real Meats – Features bison, roasted venison, wild boar, and other premium animal proteins.
Supports Healthy Digestion – Includes probiotics and fiber to support a healthy digestive system.
Promotes Skin & Coat Health – Omega fatty acids and antioxidants help promote healthy skin and a shiny coat.

Taste of the Wild Formula

Formula	Applies To
✔ High Prairie Canine Recipe	Made with roasted bison and roasted venison for a protein-packed meal.
✔ Pacific Stream Canine Recipe	A salmon-based formula for dogs with food sensitivities or allergies.
✔ Roasted Lamb	A protein-rich formula with roasted lamb and sweet potatoes.
✔ Prey High-Protein	Limited ingredient formula focusing on a single animal protein source, ideal for sensitized dogs.

Is Taste of the Wild a Good Dog Food?

Taste of the Wild is a vet-recommended premium dog food brand praised for its high-quality, grain-free recipes. It’s an excellent choice for dogs needing a protein-rich diet made with real, high-quality animal proteins. While ideal for most dogs, it may not suit those seeking grain-inclusive or lower-protein options.

8. Blue Buffalo

Blue Buffalo is a premium dog food brand known for its natural, high-quality ingredients and various formulas tailored to meet different dog needs. With real meat as the first ingredient and no artificial preservatives or fillers, Blue Buffalo offers balanced nutrition to support overall health, energy, and vitality. Vet-recommended for its wholesome ingredients and scientifically crafted recipes, Blue Buffalo is a top choice for pet owners seeking complete dog nutrition.

Key Benefits of Blue Buffalo

High-Quality, Natural Ingredients – This product features real meat, such as chicken, lamb, or salmon, with no by-products or artificial additives.
Supports Healthy Digestion – Includes fiber, prebiotics, and probiotics to support a healthy digestive system.
Promotes Skin & Coat Health – Omega fatty acids and antioxidants help maintain a shiny coat and healthy skin.
Tailored Formulas – Blue Buffalo offers specialized formulas for puppies, adults, seniors, and dogs with specific health needs like weight management or food sensitivities.

Popular Blue Buffalo Formulas

Formula	Applies To
✔ Life Protection Formula	A balanced recipe with chicken, brown rice, and vegetables, ideal for adult dogs.
✔ Freedom Grain-Free Formula	A grain-free, high-protein formula made with real meat for active dogs.
✔ Homestyle Recipe	A wet food option made with high-quality proteins and vegetables for picky eaters.
✔ Wilderness High-Protein Formula	A protein-packed recipe with chicken or salmon, ideal for active dogs or those needing a high-protein diet.

Is Blue Buffalo a Good Dog Food?

Blue Buffalo is a vet-recommended premium dog food brand known for its high-quality, natural ingredients and various formulas. It’s an excellent choice for dogs of all life stages and health needs, especially those requiring grain-free or high-protein diets. While it suits most dogs, it may not be ideal for those sensitive to specific proteins or ingredients.

9. Merrick

Merrick is a premium dog food brand known for its high-quality, protein-rich formulas made with real, whole foods like deboned meat, poultry, and fish. Offering various grain-free and limited-ingredient options, Merrick provides balanced nutrition to support overall health, energy, and vitality. Vet-recommended for its focus on high-quality animal proteins, healthy fats, and optimal levels of vitamins and minerals, Merrick is an excellent choice for dogs needing a nutrient-dense, wholesome diet.

Key Benefits of Merrick

High-Protein, Grain-Free – The first ingredient is real, deboned meat, poultry, or fish, which supports lean muscle mass.
Real, Whole Foods – Features high-quality animal proteins and nutrient-rich fruits and vegetables.
Supports Healthy Digestion – Includes prebiotics and fiber for healthy digestion and gut health.
Promotes Skin & Coat Health – Omega fatty acids help support healthy skin and a shiny coat.

Popular Merrick Formulas

Formula	Applies To
✔ Grain-Free With Real Chicken & Sweet Potato	A protein-packed formula made with chicken and easily digestible sweet potatoes.
✔ Real Beef & Sweet Potato	This meal features real beef as the first ingredient, making it ideal for active dogs needing protein-rich meals.
✔ Puppy Recipe	Designed for growing puppies with DHA for brain and eye development.
✔ Healthy Weight Recipe	A low-calorie formula to help dogs manage weight without sacrificing taste or nutrition.

Is Merrick a Good Dog Food?

Merrick is a vet-recommended premium dog food brand praised for its high-protein, nutrient-dense recipes. It’s an excellent choice for dogs of all life stages, especially those needing a grain-free or limited-ingredient diet. While it’s ideal for most dogs, it may not suit those seeking grain-inclusive or lower-protein options.

10. Canidae

Canidae is a premium dog food brand known for its high-quality, natural ingredients and various formulas designed to meet the specific needs of dogs of all breeds, sizes, and life stages. Providing grain-free and grain-inclusive options, Canidae offers complete and balanced nutrition with real meats, wholesome grains, and nutrient-rich vegetables. Vet-recommended for its clean, simple recipes, Canidae supports overall health, digestion, and vitality.

Key Benefits of Canidae

High-Quality, Natural Ingredients – Made with real meats like chicken, lamb, and fish, along with wholesome grains or vegetables.
Supports Healthy Digestion – Includes probiotics and fiber to support gut health and digestion.
Promotes Skin & Coat Health – Omega fatty acids promote a healthy coat and skin.
Multiple Protein Sources – This formula features multiple protein sources, such as chicken, lamb, and fish, to provide variety and balanced nutrition.

Popular Canidae Formulas

Formula	Description
✔ PURE Limited Ingredient Diet	A simple recipe with fewer ingredients, ideal for dogs with sensitivities or allergies.
✔ Canidae All Life Stages	A multi-protein formula for households with multiple dogs of different ages and sizes.
✔ Grain-Free PURE	A grain-free option with turkey, lamb, bison, and nutrient-rich vegetables.
✔ Under the Sun	Features simple, wholesome ingredients with no grains, perfect for sensitive dogs.

Is Canidae a Good Dog Food?

FAQ

1. What Is The Healthiest Dog Food?

The healthiest premium dog food offers complete and balanced nutrition with high-quality, natural ingredients, avoiding unnecessary fillers and artificial additives. The ideal choice depends on your dog’s breed, age, activity level, and dietary needs and is recommended by vets. Also check our latest blog about 10 best fromm dog food

A well-balanced dog diet should include real animal protein, healthy fats, fiber-rich carbohydrates, and essential vitamins and minerals to support overall health, digestion, immune function, and energy levels. It should be free from low-quality by-products, artificial preservatives, and harmful fillers.

Whether grain-free, high-protein, or allergy-friendly, the premium dog food is tailored to your dog’s specific needs and recommended by vets to ensure optimal health and well-being.

2. How Can I Raise My Iron Levels Fast?

If you need to raise your iron levels fast, focus on iron-rich foods, supplements, and absorption-boosting strategies. Similarly, when looking for premium dog food, choose options rich in high-quality ingredients that support overall health and vitality, ensuring optimal nutrition for your pet. Here’s how:

✅ Eat Iron-Rich Foods

Heme Iron – Found in animal sources:	✔ Red meat (beef, lamb, liver)
	✔ Poultry (chicken, turkey)
	✔ Seafood (salmon, tuna, oysters, clams)
Non-heme Iron – Less absorbable but still beneficial:	✔ Spinach, kale, and other leafy greens
	✔ Lentils, beans, and chickpeas
	✔ Tofu and fortified cereals
	✔ Nuts and seeds (pumpkin seeds, cashews)

✅ Pair Iron with Vitamin C

✔ Oranges, strawberries, kiwis

✔ Bell peppers, tomatoes, and broccoli

✅ Avoid Iron Blockers

✔ Dairy – Avoid consuming milk or cheese with iron-rich meals.

✔ Tea & Coffee – Drink these at least an hour after meals.

✔ High-Fiber Foods – While healthy, they can slow down iron absorption.

✅ Take Iron Supplements

✔ Ferrous sulfate is the most common iron supplement.

✔ Take supplements on an empty stomach with vitamin C for better absorption.

✔ Avoid calcium supplements at the same time.

3. How to use fromm?

Using Fromm dog food correctly ensures your pet gets premium dog food nutrition for their health and well-being. Here’s a step-by-step guide:

✅ Choose the Right Formula – Fromm offers different recipes for puppies, adults, and senior dogs and grain-free and weight-management options. Select the formula that suits your dog's age, breed, and dietary needs.
✅ Follow Feeding Guidelines – Check the feeding recommendations on the packaging based on your dog's weight and activity level. Adjust portions if needed.
✅ Transition Slowly – When switching to Fromm dog food from another brand, gradually mix it with your dog's current food over 7–10 days to prevent digestive upset.
✅ Serve Fresh – Always provide fresh, clean water alongside the food. If feeding wet or canned food, refrigerate unused portions and discard uneaten food after a few hours.
✅ Monitor Your Dog's Health – Look for signs of a healthy coat, good digestion, and steady energy levels. If necessary, consult your vet for dietary adjustments.

4. How to open from dog food?

Opening a bag or can of Fromm dog food depends on the packaging type:

✅ For dry dog food (kibble bags):
- Locate the Top Seal – Fromm kibble bags typically have a resealable closure or a tear strip.
- Tear or Cut Along the Seal – If there's a tear strip, pull it across the top. Otherwise, use scissors to cut the sealed edge.
- Open the Bag Wide – Gently pull apart the opening to access the food.
- Reseal Properly – To keep the food fresh, fold the top and secure it with the built-in seal or a clip.
✅ For canned dog food:
- Check the Lid – Most Fromm cans have a pull tab for easy opening.
- Pull the Tab – Lift the tab and peel back the lid carefully.
- Use a Can Opener (If Needed) – If the can doesn't have a pull tab, use a can opener to remove the lid.
- Store Leftovers – Cover any unused food and refrigerate for freshness.

5. How Long Can You Leave Wet Dog Food Out?

You should not leave wet dog food at room temperature for over 2 hours. If the temperature is above 90°F (32°C), discard it after 1 hour to prevent bacterial growth.

✅ Refrigerate unused portions – Store opened cans in the fridge (below 40°F/4°C) and use within 3-5 days.
✅ Use an airtight container – Transfer leftovers to a sealed container to maintain freshness.
✅ Serve small portions – Only give your dog what they can eat in one sitting to avoid waste.

Note: If the food looks dried out, smells bad, or has mold, throw it away immediately.