The best dog food to feed a dog in 2025 depends on the dog's life stage, breed, health needs, and preferences. Vet-recommended top brands include:
- Hill's Science Diet: Best overall for health with recipes tailored for puppies, adults, seniors, and medical conditions. It offers high-quality protein and formulas for kidney care, weight management, and joint health.
- Royal Canin: Best for breed-specific nutrition with formulas addressing breed-related health issues and unique kibble shapes matching jaw structures.
- Purina Pro Plan: Great value for quality and options targeting active dogs and large breeds, with ingredients promoting joint, skin, and coat health.
- Wellness Core: Best for natural, holistic nutrition, free from artificial preservatives and fillers, with probiotic support and omega fatty acids.
- Farmina N&D: A European brand with non-GMO, cruelty-free ingredients, suitable for dogs with allergies and limited ingredient diets.
- Blue Buffalo Life Protection: Supports immune health with antioxidant-rich ingredients and real meat and vegetables.
Additional vet-endorsed choices include Merrick for grain-free options and Stella & Chewy's freeze-dried raw recipes for nutrient density and suitability to food sensitivities. Choosing the best dog food involves considering specific needs like digestive health, allergies, and breed requirements. High- quality protein sources, controlled mineral levels, and added supplements like glucosamine or omega fatty acids are key features in top foods.
For more targeted recommendations, considering a dog's breed, age, and health issues will help narrow down the best brand and formula.
