25 Best Grain-Inclusive Dog Foods

Grains are any tiny, hard seeds, particularly from food plants like wheat, corn, rye, oat, rice, millet, barley, and sorghum. Any or all of these grains could be ingredients in dry or wet dog food, and none of them may be ingredients in grain-free dog food. A dog’s diet should be enriched with whole grains to provide essential nutrients, including magnesium, B vitamins, iron, carbohydrates to provide energy, selenium, and fiber to aid digestion. It may be well known to dog owners that grain-free dog food tends to have more meat and other carb-containing veggies to replace the nutrients. 

However, it is essential to acknowledge that very few dogs are allergic to grains in dog food. Sensitivities almost always cause Food-related allergies to the meat or other animal protein in the kibble and not the grain content in the dog food.

Image	Product	Features	Price
Best Overall	Whole Earth Farms Healthy Grains Dry Dog Food Chicken and Rice Recipe Provides your dog with omega fatty acids for healthy skin and coat Includes antioxidants for a healthy immune system Suitable for all breed sizes 4 pound, 25 pound, and 27 pound bags available	9.5	Check Price on AmazonCheck Price on Chewy
Most Protein	Nature's Logic Canine Pork Meal Feast Includes multiple proteins for easy rotation Supports your dog's digestion with probiotics & enzymes Suitable for all dog life stages 4 pound through 26.4 pound bags available	9.5	Check Price on AmazonCheck Price on Chewy
Best Fish Recipe	Blue Buffalo Life Protection Grain-Inclusive Dry Dog Food Supports your dog's immune system health with vital vitamins and minerals Includes omega 3 & 6 fatty acids to promote shiny coat and healthy skin  Helps build strong muscles with high quality protein 5 pound through 30 pound bags available	9	Check Price on Amazon
Best Gluten-Free Recipe	The Honest Kitchen Dehydrated Whole Grain Chicken Dog Food Human-grade food made with high quality ingredients for health and taste Suitable for puppies and adult dogs 2 pound, 4 pound, 7 pound, and 10 pound packs available Sample/travel 1.75 ounce pack also available	9	Check Price on Amazon
Most Affordable	Diamond Pet Foods Naturals Lite Lamb & Rice Great quality for the money Helps your dog maintain a healthy weight Ideal for overweight of less active dogs 30 pound bag available	8.5	Check Price on AmazonCheck Price on Chewy

As long as the grain ingredients do not appear near the top of the ingredients list, their fiber content can help regulate the dog’s digestive system. Dogs can also go longer on less food if their kibble contains grains compared to a grain-free kibble diet. A small percentage of dogs have sensitivities to grain or gluten, while a significant portion has meat allergies, most frequently poultry allergies. Grains can only affect a dog’s mood if they are low quality and have excessive volumes. Low-quality and often cheaper dog foods contain fillers such as grain products or are low in protein – all of which can have an impact on your canine’s mood. Aggression and hyperactivity are often associated with the ingredients in your dog’s food, too.

Dry Grain-inclusive diets for dogs have many additional benefits like the variety of available products and the range of prices. Depending on the kibble brand used, grain-inclusive dry dog food costs can vary between $0.20 – $13 per day.

The best dry grain-inclusive dog foods are listed below.

1. Whole Earth Farms (Best Overall)
2. Nature’s Logic Pork (Most Protein) 
3. Blue Buffalo Life Protection Fish & Brown Rice (Best Fish Recipe)
4. Honest Kitchen LID Chicken (Best Gluten-Free Recipe) 
5. Diamond Naturals Beef Meal & Rice (Most Affordable) 

1. Whole Earth Farms with Healthy Grains Dry Dog Food

Whole Earth Farms is a pet food brand owned by Merrick Pet Care, which produces the well-known Merrick pet food brand. Merrick Pet Care has been in operation since 1988, and the Whole Earth Farms brand was introduced to pet owners in 2009.

The manufacturing plant is in Amarillo, Texas. Whole Earth Farms crafted their Healthy Grains range with real, high-protein beef alongside flaxseed, apples, carrots, beets, and vitamins. Omega fatty acids and antioxidants will boost every meal with the optimal amount of nutrition for your dog’s skin, coat, and immune system. Plus, the entire body of your canine companion is sure to feel the love due to fat-metabolizing L-Carnitine, which metabolizes fat and reduces weight on the joints.

Benefits also include Whole Earth Farms’ dog foods helping support a healthy immune system, healthy joints, and healthy skin and coat. However, the sugar content of the fruit and vegetables added to provide fiber might be harmful.

Every dog will have different nutritional requirements depending on the breed, life stage, health, environment, and activity level. Maintain optimal body condition by adjusting food as necessary and asking your veterinarian if you have any doubts about grain-inclusive diets. Dogs with sensitive stomachs may need to transition to new dog food gradually to avoid any digestive upset.

 

2. Nature’s Logic Canine Pork Meal Feast Dog Food

Founded in 2006, Nature’s Logic is a line of premium-quality dog food and treats focusing on natural whole food nutrition benefits.

Nature’s Logic uses only 100% natural ingredients and no synthetic vitamins and minerals. Manufacturing plants are based in Mt. Pleasant, Texas, Kansas, Wisconsin, Missouri, and Nebraska, the company headquarters. Nature’s Logic Pork Meal Feast is part of the grain-inclusive range. The recipe is a 100% natural, highly palatable, and nutrient-rich dry dog food featuring high-quality, high-protein pork meal from USA-raised pork as the first ingredient. The diet features concentrate of select fruits and vegetables, and the kibble is specially coated with digestive enzymes and plasma protein containing high levels of natural vitamins, minerals, and albumin and globulin proteins. Nature’s Logic Pork Meal Feast is a 100% natural formula made free of chemically synthesized vitamins, minerals, or amino acids. The grain-inclusive formula contains non-GMO millet, low glycemic grass seed, and the MSG-free recipe is free of hydrolyzed proteins, corn, wheat, rice, or soy.

Other benefits include the use of minimally processed food, such as dried kelp, blueberries, spinach, and cranberries. In addition, probiotics and digestive enzymes are added after cooking to prevent deterioration caused by heat, to maintain proper digestion. Nature’s Logic Grain Inclusive Dry Dog Food range is free of any controversial or harmful ingredients, and no recalls have been recorded. Therefore, it is enthusiastically recommended. Every dog will have different nutritional requirements depending on the breed, life stage, health, environment, and activity level. Maintain optimal body condition by adjusting food as necessary and asking your veterinarian if you have any doubts. Dogs with sensitive stomachs may gradually transition to new wet dog food to avoid digestive upset.

 

3. Blue Buffalo Life Protection Grain-Inclusive Dry Dog Food 

Blue Buffalo Co.Ltd. was established in Wilton, Fairfield County, Connecticut in 2002. All Blue Buffalo recipes contain high-quality proteins, including beef, lamb, fish, and chicken, wholesome grains, fruits, and vegetables. The top rated recipe making Dog Food Care’s top 25 featured fish as the protein source.

All the ingredients are carefully selected by a team of veterinarians, animal nutritionists, and food scientists to keep dogs healthy and happy. Blue Buffalo’s Life Protection Formula is grain-inclusive, while their Freedom line of dog food is grain and gluten-free. The benefits of Blue Buffalo dry kibble include that it includes only healthy grains. Recipes include no wheat, corn, soy, and protein by-product meals, which are ingredients that manufacturers of cheap brands often use as fillers. Dog owners might be concerned about the dried tomato pomace, pea protein, pea fiber, garlic, and sodium selenite, which are controversial ingredients listed on some Blue Buffalo Life Protection lines. Although not forbidden, these ingredients are often frowned upon. 

Every dog will have different nutritional requirements depending on the breed, life stage, health, environment, and activity level. Maintain optimal body condition by adjusting food as necessary and asking your veterinarian if you have any doubts about a grain-inclusive diet. Dogs with sensitive stomachs may need to transition to new dog food gradually to avoid any digestive upset.dia

4. The Honest Kitchen Human Organic Grain Chicken Dry Dog Food

The Honest Kitchen has been doing its magic with dog food since 2002 in sunny San Diego, CA.

 The Honest Kitchen Whole Grain Chicken dog food is made with real whole food ingredients like free-range chickens, organic oats, and bananas, gently dehydrated for maximum nutrient retention and digestion. To feed their canine companions, dog parents must add warm water and wait three minutes for a tasty, grain-inclusive homemade meal that both owner and dog will love.

The primary benefit of this grain-inclusive dog food range is that it is complete and balanced nutrition for dogs of all life stages, all breeds and sizes, including large breed puppies and pregnant or lactating mama dogs. Although there seem to be no negatives reported about any of The Honest Kitchen recipes, one issue that might raise concern is the recall of 5 lots of The Honest Kitchen products; however, that was back in 2013.

Every dog will have different nutritional requirements depending on the breed, life stage, health, environment, and activity level. Maintain optimal body condition by adjusting food as necessary and asking your veterinarian if you have any doubts about grain-inclusive diets. Dogs with sensitive stomachs may need to transition to new dog food gradually to avoid any digestive upset.

5. Diamond Naturals Light Grain-Inclusive Dog Food

Diamond Naturals Light Formula Dry Dog Food is formulated from the highest quality ingredients including real lamb protein and fruits and vegetables.

This recipe also contains added glucosamine, chondroitin, and L-Carnitine so your dog can reach and maintain healthy body weight while also receiving the necessary nutrition. Help your canine companion achieve a complete and balanced holistic diet with Diamond’s grain-inclusive recipes.

The primary benefit of Diamond Naturals Light Formula Dry Dog Food is the low-calorie count, which is 15% fewer calories than the original Diamond Naturals Adult Dog Lamb Meal & Rice formula, making it ideal for overweight pups. However, it might be concerning that the only animal-based proteins in this recipe are lamb meal, number one on the ingredients list, and chicken fat, number 10, with only grains from 2 to 9, which might be a bit too much. Dog owners might also fear harm due to the three recalls in the Diamond history. Every dog will have different nutritional requirements depending on the breed, life stage, health, environment, and activity level. Maintain optimal body condition by adjusting food as necessary and asking your veterinarian if you have any doubts about grain-inclusive diets. Dogs with sensitive stomachs may gradually transition to new wet dog food to avoid any digestive upset.

6. Wellness Complete Health Grain-Inclusive Dog Food 

With its headquarters in Massachusetts, Wellness Pet Food was founded in 1997.

Wellness Complete Health recipes for dogs combine natural, premium proteins to deliver a balanced diet full of the nutrients dogs need for lifelong wellbeing, no matter their breed size, life stage, or unique nutritional needs. 

The benefit of each Wellness Complete grain-inclusive recipe is that it is crafted with antioxidants to support strong immune systems and balanced nutrients for optimal energy. This brand has two controversial ingredients that may cause harm, namely sodium selenite and garlic. Depending on the amount included, sodium selenite could be toxic to dogs, and garlic has been linked to Heinz body anemia in dogs.

Depending on the breed, life stage, health, environment, and activity level, every dog will have different nutritional requirements, so the amount of consumption changes according to dog breed. Maintain optimal body condition by adjusting food as necessary and asking your veterinarian if you have any doubts about a grain-inclusive diet. Dogs with sensitive stomachs may need to transition to new dog food gradually to avoid any digestive upset.

7. Dr. Tim’s Dry Grain-Inclusive Dog Food

Dr. Tim’s Pet Food Company in South Marquette, MI, USA, was established in 2004.

Dr. Tim’s utilizes only the highest quality ingredients in their dog food formulas to ensure that all canine companions get the best nutrition possible. Dr. Tim’s offers several different options, including dry, wet, small dogs, large dogs, and senior dogs. They also provide options for canines that require special diets, such as weight loss and allergies, and delicious and nutritious dog treats. Metabolically balanced kibble meets the specific needs of sedentary to moderately active canines. The well-rounded grain-inclusive meal is designed to suit all life stages, which means it can follow your dog from puppyhood to the golden years.

Dr. Tim’s grain-inclusive dog foods have several benefits, including probiotics, prebiotics, and natural antioxidants, that work to support your dog’s digestive and immune health. Plus, it’s made without corn, wheat, or soy to ensure even canines with sensitive stomachs can savor every bite. However, some of Dr. Tim’s dry dog foods contain controversial ingredients like beet pulp, a high fiber by-product of sugar beet processing, often regarded as a filler. Another controversial ingredient is sodium selenite, which could be toxic to dogs, depending on the quantity included in the recipe. 

Depending on the breed, life stage, health, environment, and activity level, every dog will have different nutritional requirements, so the amount of consumption changes according to dog breed. Maintain optimal body condition by adjusting food as necessary and asking your veterinarian if you have any doubts about a grain-inclusive diet. Dogs with sensitive stomachs may need to transition to new dog food gradually to avoid any digestive upset.

8. Annamaet Dry Grain-Inclusive Dog Food

The Annamaet pet food brand was founded in 1986 by Rob Downey.

It continues to be a family-owned and -operated company dedicated to producing healthy, holistic dog foods in Sellersville, PA. The Annamaet dog food brand is known for following a holistic approach to pet nutrition which means that they only use the freshest, most wholesome ingredients available. 

The benefits of Annamaet’s human-grade meats and fish like chicken, venison, and salmon, are all low-ash, meaning that the amount of nutrients not absorbed by the body is minimal. However, some of Annamaet’s dry holistic dog foods contain controversial ingredients like beet pulp, a high fiber by-product of sugar beet processing, often regarded as a filler but acceptable in small quantities. Another controversial ingredient is brewer’s yeast, a by-product of beer making. Critics believe it causes allergies, but that will only happen if the dog is allergic to yeast in general.

Every dog will have different nutritional requirements depending on the breed, life stage, health, environment, and activity level. Maintain optimal body condition by adjusting food as necessary and asking your veterinarian if you have any doubts about a grain-inclusive diet. Dogs with sensitive stomachs may need to transition to new dog food gradually to avoid any digestive upset.

9. American Journey Active Life Formula Grain-Inclusive Dry Dog Food

American Journey is the brand of Chewy.

It is a reasonably new brand, but they already have an extensive range of dry and wet dog food, with and without grains, at a manufacturing facility in Kansas. American Journey dog food presents a wide variety of wholesome and natural dog foods for every breed of dog in every growth stage. With so many choices, pet owners are sure to find a dog food that suits their dogs perfectly. American Journey dog food is available exclusively on Chewy.com. 

Essential minerals are chelated with amino acids to optimize their absorption and ensure maximum benefit for complete and balanced nutrition with a taste of the wild that canine companions constantly crave. Further benefits of the grain-inclusive recipes include every recipe providing a well-rounded, balanced diet starting with real protein as the first ingredient plus nutrient-rich vegetables like sweet potatoes and carrots. Nutrients contain antioxidants for healthy immune systems and balanced omegas to support healthy skin and coats. Dogs obtain wholesome fiber from easy-to-digest grains like brown rice and barley.

Concern about potential harm exists because several controversial ingredients are included in the ingredients list. Pea protein, rice bran, brewers rice, tomato pomace are all within the fi1st ten ingredients on the list, indicating that their quantities are not insignificant. Plain beet pulp and sodium selenite are also controversial, but considering their positions on the ingredient list, they could not make much difference to the quality of the product.

Every dog will have different nutritional requirements depending on the breed, life stage, health, environment, and activity level. Maintain optimal body condition by adjusting food as necessary and asking your veterinarian if you have any doubts about grain-inclusive diets. Dogs with sensitive stomachs may need to transition to new dog food gradually to avoid any digestive upset.

 

10. Spot and Tango Lamb and Brown Rice Fresh Grain-Inclusive Dog Food

Spot and Tango is a specialty dog food brand from Breuer Premium Pet Food Company in New York.

The fresh food grain-inclusive recipes include Turkey & Red Quinoa, Beef & Millet, and Lamb and Brown Rice, which we will explore here.

Ingredients of Spot and Tango Lamb and Brown Rice Fresh Dry Dog Foods are Lamb, Brown Rice, Spinach, Carrots, Peas, Blueberries, Kelp, Eggs, Parsley, Apple Cider Vinegar, Safflower Oil, and Vegetable Stock. 

Nutrients of Spot and Tango Lamb and Brown Rice Fresh Dry Dog Foods are Vitamins and Minerals, Calcium Phosphate, Salt, Calcium Carbonate, Magnesium, Potassium, Vitamin E, Zinc, Iron, Manganese, Vitamin D3, Copper, Selenium, Folic Acid, Iodine, Vitamin B12. It is gluten-free and non-GMO.

Freshly prepared grain-inclusive dog food provides numerous benefits, from a shinier coat to increased energy levels and relief from allergies, and more. There seem to be no negatives reported about the grain-inclusive Spot and Tango recipes, and it appears as if overindulgence and weight gain might be the only risk.

Every dog will have different nutritional requirements depending on the breed, life stage, health, environment, and activity level. Maintain optimal body condition by adjusting food as necessary and asking your veterinarian if you have any doubts about grain-inclusive diets. Dogs with sensitive stomachs may need to transition to new dog food gradually to avoid any digestive upset.

11. Victor Classic Hi-Pro Plus Grain-Inclusive Dry Dog Food

 Mount Pleasant, TX Victor dog food is a product of Mid America Pet Food LLC.

 Victor had its origins as a brand name sometime in the mid-1940s. However, the product available today has only been in existence since 2007. VICTOR Classic Hi-Pro Plus Formula Dry Dog Food is a nutrient-dense grain-inclusive formula made with premium-quality beef, chicken, fish, and pork meals. It is ideal for all life stages, including growing puppies and pregnant and lactating mama dogs. It also provides sustained energy for high-performance dogs. Made from gluten-free grains, VICTOR Benefits of the Victor Classic Hi-Pro Plus Formula Dry Dog Food include a complete and balanced diet for your canine companion. It comprises 88% meat protein with premium-quality beef, chicken, and pork meals and nutrient-dense recipes for all life stages. It is fortified with vitamins, minerals, essential fatty acids, protein, and amino acids.

It isn’t very reassuring to see Dehydrated Alfalfa Meal as an ingredient in this dog food. Alfalfa is considered a premium-grade ingredient for horse feed and not dogs. However, dog food manufacturers often use it as a cheap protein source. 

Every dog will have different nutritional requirements depending on the breed, life stage, health, environment, and activity level. Maintain optimal body condition by adjusting food as necessary and asking your veterinarian if you have any doubts about grain-inclusive diets. Dogs with sensitive stomachs may need to transition to new dog food gradually to avoid any digestive upset.

 

12. Eagle Pack Natural Grain-Inclusive Dry Dog Food

Eagle Pack, based in Mishawaka, IN, was established in 1970 and became a subsidiary of Wellpet around 2008.

 This grain-inclusive formula is made with delicious animal proteins, including chicken meal and pork meal, to support muscle tone and provide four-legged friends with irresistible flavor. There is also glucosamine hydrochloride to maintain joint health and flaxseed to support skin and coat health. Everything is further fortified with vitamins and minerals for a healthy immune system. No corn, wheat, poultry by-products, artificial colors, flavors, or preservatives are used.

Benefits include the right balance of protein, fats, carbohydrates to help maintain a healthy weight, muscle tone, and stamina. The formula consists of glucosamine for joint support and probiotics to support healthy digestion. High protein and fat levels help support healthy energy release and sustained endurance in working dogs.

However, the Eagle Pack formula contains controversial ingredients like tomato pomace, scorned by many as useless fillers and yeast linked to allergies. Also, sodium selenite could be toxic to dogs depending on the amount included.

Every dog will have different nutritional requirements depending on the breed, life stage, health, environment, and activity level. Maintain optimal body condition by adjusting food as necessary and asking your veterinarian if you have any doubts about grain-inclusive diets. Dogs with sensitive stomachs may need to transition to new dog food gradually to avoid any digestive upset.

 

13. Farmina Natural Grain-Inclusive Dry Dog Food

Farmina dog food has its roots in the Russo Mangimi company, an animal nutrition business located in Italy, founded in 1965 by Francesco Russo. In 1999, Dr. Angelo Russo, son of the owner Francesco, collaborated with Farmina, an English company specializing in food research, establishing Farmina Dog Food with a manufacturing plant and headquarters in Italy.

The N&D Farmina Grain-inclusive Range indicates the benefits of Farmina dog food, Natural & Delicious. It is a scientifically developed dog food, naturally appropriate for a dog’s metabolism. Thanks to a low glycemic index, N&D can help prevent obesity and diabetes in your dog.

However, potentially harmful ingredients in the recipes include brewers yeast, a controversial item that is a by-product of the beer-making process, often linked to allergies. 

Every dog will have different nutritional requirements depending on the breed, life stage, health, environment, and activity level. Maintain optimal body condition by adjusting food as necessary and asking your veterinarian if you have any doubts about grain-inclusive diets. Dogs with sensitive stomachs may gradually transition to new wet dog food to avoid any digestive upset. 

14. Nutro Ultra Dry Dog Food

Nutro dog food products are manufactured in the United States under the Mars Petcare division of Mars Inc.

The company’s headquarters are in McLean, Virginia. The history of Nutro dog food goes back to a family business started in 1931 that received approval to use the trademark Nutro on May 12, 1936, long before Mars Petcare Inc. acquired the company in 2007. 

In 2009, Nutro Ultra was launched as a more expensive choice with more reinforced vitamins and nutrients than the Wholesome Essentials line. Nutro Ultra contains slightly lower levels of Omega 6’s, with somewhat more Omega 3’s. Nutro Ultra Dry Dog Food with a Trio of Proteins From Chicken, Lamb, and Salmon is a recipe containing quality ingredients that satisfy and nourish. These recipes start with real chicken as the primary ingredient and feature a trio of high-quality protein from chicken, lamb, and salmon and a blend of 15 superfoods like coconut, chia, kale, and blueberries. Nutro Ultra’s Adult Recipe provides a balanced, nutrient-rich, and flavorful diet for adult dogs. However, the Ultra range includes formulas for puppies and senior dogs and also for toy, small and large breeds. Furthermore, Nutro Ultra has specialized recipes for weight management. 

The Nutro Ultra range is packed with nutrient-rich ingredients, and a few controversial ingredients that are so far down the ingredients list that harm is unlikely. Dog owners might be concerned about the three rice products, brown rice, brewers rice, and rice bran, as numbers 3, 4, and 5 on the ingredients list. This is a typical case of ingredient splitting, which means that if they are added together, the amount might be more or close to the animal protein in the recipe. Every dog will have different nutritional requirements depending on the breed, life stage, health, environment, and activity level. Maintain optimal body condition by adjusting food as necessary and asking your veterinarian if you have any doubts. Dogs with sensitive stomachs may gradually transition to new wet dog food to avoid digestive upset.

15. Holistic Select Adult Health Chicken Meal & Brown Rice Recipe Grain-Inclusive Dry Dog Food

Holistic Select originated as Eagle Pack Holistic as a subsidiary of Eagle Pack, based in Mishawaka, IN, established in 1970.

Wellpet acquired both around 2008. Holistic Select was launched in 2000 before it became a separate brand from Eagle Pack

Holistic Select Adult Chicken Meal & Brown Rice Recipe is a grain-inclusive kibble specially crafted for adult canine companions. It contains a healthy combination of probiotics, antioxidants, and fiber, and features chicken and rice with vital nutrients that are easily absorbed within the body. 

Holistic Select Adult Chicken Meal & Brown Rice is a dog food with optimal levels of proteins that benefits dog parents whose canine companions are picky eaters.

Holistic Select grain-inclusive kibble contains some controversial ingredients that could be harmful to dogs. Canola oil, dried beet pulp, and brewer’s dried yeast are safe in small quantities. However, they are amounts 7, 10, and fourteen, on the ingredient list, which means their amounts were not insignificant. 

Every dog will have different nutritional requirements depending on the breed, life stage, health, environment, and activity level. Maintain optimal body condition by adjusting food as necessary and asking your veterinarian if you have any doubts about grain-inclusive diets. Dogs with sensitive stomachs may need to transition to new dog food gradually to avoid any digestive upset.

16. Wellness Complete Health Adult Deboned Chicken & Oatmeal Dry Grain-Inclusive Dog Food

With its headquarters in Massachusetts, Wellness Pet Food was founded in 1997.

Wellness Complete Health recipes for dogs combine natural, premium proteins to deliver a balanced diet full of the nutrients dogs need for lifelong wellbeing, no matter their breed size, life stage, or unique nutritional needs. This natural, grain-inclusive dry food for dogs is specially formulated to provide whole-body nutritional support. It is crafted using carefully chosen ingredients that include premium proteins and wholesome grains supported by omega fatty acids, antioxidants, glucosamine, probiotics, and taurine. It is developed without any GMOs, meat by-products, fillers, or artificial preservatives. 

The benefits of this Wellness Complete Health include healthy dry dog food, designed to encourage a strong immune system, optimize energy levels and ensure healthy skin and coat while promoting whole-body health. Compared to other grain-inclusive kibbles, this Wellness recipe is primarily plant-based with low protein and fat content and high carbs. Although that may or may not be harmful, dog owners may be concerned about three recalls of Wellness Complete dog foods in the past.

Every dog will have different nutritional requirements depending on the breed, life stage, health, environment, and activity level. Maintain optimal body condition by adjusting food as necessary and asking your veterinarian if you have any doubts about grain-inclusive diets. Dogs with sensitive stomachs may need to transition to new dog food gradually to avoid any digestive upset.

 

17. Nutro Max Adult Natural Beef Meal & Rice Recipe Grain-Inclusive Dry Dog Food

The Nutro Company was founded in 1933 and acquired by Mars Petcare in 2007.

Nutro headquarters are located in Franklin, Tennessee, and they have two dry pet food manufacturing facilities for NUTRO products located in Henderson, North Carolina, and Victorville, California. 

Nutro Max Adult Natural Beef Meal & Rice Recipe is an affordable option. This beef recipe’s ingredient list starts with chicken meal, followed by grains up to no. 5, chicken fat, and no.6 finally brings us to beef, and lamb meal at number 14, which might make dog owners suspect they are being misled by Nutro calling it a “Natural Beef Meal.” The result is a high protein recipe, but it seems deceptive to characterize it as a beef recipe.

This Nutro Max will benefit your dog despite the beef issue as the recipe uses a good quality nutrient pack with nothing artificial. However, we see whole grain sorghum, brewers rice, whole grain oatmeal, and whole brown rice for carbohydrates. Although they are all nutritional and digestible, there is a bit too much of it. Harm could be done to dogs on low-carb diets. Furthermore, regardless of the high volume of grains, the fiber content is low, which might cause harm to dogs with digestion problems.

Every dog will have different nutritional requirements depending on the breed, life stage, health, environment, and activity level. Maintain optimal body condition by adjusting food as necessary and asking your veterinarian if you have any doubts about grain-inclusive diets. Dogs with sensitive stomachs may gradually transition to new wet dog food to avoid any digestive upset.  

18. Taste of the Wild Roasted Fowl High Protein Dog Food

Taste of the Wild is a relatively new brand of dog food, debuting around 2007 to meet the market demand for premium ancient grains “natural” dog foods with better ingredients.

Their dog foods are made in five state-of-the-art facilities in the USA: two in California and one each in Missouri, Arkansas, and South Carolina. Nourish your dog with the balanced diet nature intended with Taste of the Wild Ancient Wetlands Dry Dog Food. The formula includes Ancient Grains, and available options include Smoked Salmon, Roasted Lamb, Roasted Bison & Venison, and Roasted Fowl, which is the option discussed here. Duck is the primary ingredient providing 30% of the protein, but the recipe also features smoked turkey and roasted quail to support bones, joints, and lean mussels. Vitamins and minerals are obtained from superfoods, natural fruits, ancient grains, and omega fatty acids for optimal energy and a dog’s healthy skin and coat. Taste of the Wild Roasted Fowl Wetlands Dry Dog Food with Ancient Grains further contains species-specific K9 Strain Proprietary Probiotics, along with antioxidants and prebiotics to help support healthy digestion, boost the dog’s immune system and overall health and wellness. The recipe is free of corn, wheat, artificial flavors, and colors.

Although this recipe’s ingredients are above average, it contains a few controversial ingredients low down the list, indicating that they would have an insignificant, if any, impact on the dog’s health. However, in sixth place on the ingredients list, dried yeast might cause concern. Although it is high in protein and other healthy nutrients, some believe it causes allergies, and others link it to life-threatening bloat. Fans claim it serves as a flea repellent. However, none of these theories have been verified scientifically. Every dog will have different nutritional requirements depending on the breed, life stage, health, environment, and activity level. Maintain optimal body condition by adjusting food as necessary and asking your veterinarian if you have any doubts. Dogs with sensitive stomachs may gradually transition to new wet dog food to avoid digestive upset.

19. Royal Canin Breed Health Nutrition Labrador Retriever Adult Dry Dog Food 

Royal Canin was founded by veterinarian Jean Cathary in France in 1968 and began operating in the US in 1985.

One benefit of the grain-inclusive Royal Canine Labrador recipe addresses the fact that Labs are prone to becoming overweight, and the donut-shaped specialized kibble is designed to help your fast eater slow down and actually chew their food. A precise amount of calories and fat helps maintain your Lab at a healthy weight. There are no large quantities of controversial ingredients that could cause your Lab harm, but research shows that Royal Canin dry dog food had three recalls in recent years.

Every dog will have different nutritional requirements depending on the breed, life stage, health, environment, and activity level. Maintain optimal body condition by adjusting food as necessary and asking your veterinarian if you have any doubts about grain-inclusive diets. Dogs with sensitive stomachs may need to transition to new dog food gradually to avoid any digestive upset.

20. Solid Gold Wolf King Bison, Brown Rice & Sweet Potatoes Adult Grain-Inclusive Dog Food

Solid Gold Pet was founded in the 1970s and operated from El Cajon, California.

Solid Gold Wolf King Bison, Brown Rice & Sweet Potatoes is a grain-inclusive recipe crafted with pasture-raised, USA bison, healthy fats, whole grains, living probiotics, and a unique blend of functional superfoods. 

The benefits of this recipe are building and maintaining the muscles of large breed dogs and providing gut health and immune support, and skin and coat health. Dog owners might be concerned about including white potatoes higher up in the ingredients list than sweet potatoes, which are more nutritious than white potatoes. Including both might be harmful to dogs on low-carb diets. 

Every dog will have different nutritional requirements depending on the breed, life stage, health, environment, and activity level. Maintain optimal body condition by adjusting food as necessary and asking your veterinarian if you have any doubts about grain-inclusive diets. Dogs with sensitive stomachs may gradually transition to new wet dog food to avoid any digestive upset. 

21. Purina Pro Plan Adult 7+ Sensitive Skin & Stomach Salmon & Rice Senior Grain-Inclusive Dog Food

Nestle bought Purina in December 2001, with headquarters in St. Louis, Missouri.

However, in 1894 Robinson-Danforth was founded as a balanced food production company for animals under the brand Purina, becoming the first company in the world to offer such products.

Purina creates food that nourishes dogs as they go through all life stages. An example is Purina Pro Plan Adult 7+ Sensitive Skin & Stomach Salmon & Rice Senior Dog Food, allowing any dog owner to ensure proper nutrition for aging canine companions. 

When senior dogs have sensitive stomachs or skins, finding the right food is crucial to their overall health and well-being. Pro Plan Sensitive Skin & Stomach formulas are formulated with high-quality ingredients that are easily digestible and gentle on the digestive system, plus omega-6 fatty acids for healthy skin and a shiny coat. The primary ingredient in this recipe is real, high-quality salmon, and other gentle and easily digestible ingredients are rice and oatmeal. In older dogs, joint health and mobility, glucosamine and EPA, an omega-3 fatty acid, are essential.

The benefits of Purina Pro Plan Adult 7+ Sensitive Skin & Stomach Salmon & Rice Senior Dog Food is the formula specially designed to meet the unique nutritional needs of adult dogs who are age seven and older. It provides excellent daily nutrition that helps senior dogs be their best.

The recipe contains sodium selenite, a controversial additive that could be toxic to dogs. However, the harm risk depends on the amount included, making it harmless in this recipe as it is at the last position of the ingredients list.

Every dog will have different nutritional requirements depending on the breed, life stage, health, environment, and activity level. Maintain optimal body condition by adjusting food as necessary and asking your veterinarian if you have any doubts about grain-inclusive diets. Dogs with sensitive stomachs may gradually transition to new wet dog food to avoid any digestive upset. 

22. Canidae All Life Stages Grain-Inclusive Dog Food

Canidae is a family-owned company founded in 1996 on the family farm in Kansas, USA.

Canidae also operates a cooking facility and distribution center in Texas, USA.

Canidae recipes are made from wholesome, high-quality ingredients, balanced for whole-body health. The recipes are formulated with a vet nutritionist to exceed AAFCO standards. The Canidae All Life Stages is available in Chicken, Turkey, Lamb, and Fish Meal Formula dry dog food. This vet-formulated grain-inclusive recipe is specifically designed for dogs of all breeds, sizes, and life stages. It features premium ingredients and optimum protein and is completely free of corn, wheat, and soy for the wholesome nutrition your dog deserves. 

One great benefit is the all-in-one approach to feeding, making mealtime for multi-dog households much more straightforward than dealing with multiple bags of different foods.

Potential harms mentioned include the amount of rice, which makes the food easier for senior dogs to digest, but maybe too much rice for younger dogs. Furthermore, sodium selenite is concerning because it could be toxic to dogs.

Every dog will have different nutritional requirements depending on the breed, life stage, health, environment, and activity level. Maintain optimal body condition by adjusting food as necessary and asking your veterinarian if you have any doubts about grain-inclusive diets. Dogs with sensitive stomachs may gradually transition to new wet dog food to avoid any digestive upset. 

23. Nutri Chunks Optimum Adult Dog Food Beef + Chicken Liver Grain-Inclusive Dry Dog Food 

San Miguel Pet Care manufactures Nutri Chunks Dog Food in Manila, Philippines.

 The company claims Nutri Chunks to be the only dog food with ActivBoost & Prebiotics Fortified with Essential Vitamins and Nutrients for a complete and balanced diet. It is suitable for all breeds of adult dogs over one-year-old, offering 100% complete and balanced nutrition. Nutri Chunks are marketed as an optimum blend of proteins, fats, and carbohydrates for optimal energy. It is packed with omega-3 and omega-6 for the maintenance of a shiny and healthy coat.

One of the benefits of the grain-inclusive Nutri Chunks is a natural prebiotic, Mannan Oligosaccharide, for energy-boosting and strengthening the dog’s digestive tract.

Dog owners might have concerns about being misled and potential harm to their dogs when they study the Nutri Chunks Optimum Adult Dog Food Beef + Chicken Liver ingredients. They may expect to see beef and chicken liver at the top of the ingredients list. However, the first six ingredients are all controversial grains, with soybean featuring twice. Meat and Bone Meal is number 7, and the chicken liver meal is fourth from last at number 14. The list of ingredients includes Corn, Wheat, Soybean, Meal, Corn Gluten Meal, Full Fat Soybean, Meat and Bone Meal (Bovine), Wheat Bran, Poultry Meal, Chicken Fat, Fish Meal, Vitamins, Minerals, Chicken Liver Powder, Mannan Oligosaccharide, and Yucca Preservative. This underscores the importance of studying the ingredients list when buying a specific canine companion food.

Every dog will have different nutritional requirements depending on the breed, life stage, health, environment, and activity level. Maintain optimal body condition by adjusting food as necessary and asking your veterinarian if you have any doubts about grain-inclusive diets. Dogs with sensitive stomachs may gradually transition to new wet dog food to avoid any digestive upset.

24. Acana Red Meat & Grains Recipe 

Champion Petfoods, the parent company of Acana, has been in business since 1979, based in Alberta, Canada.

In 1980, Champion created the Acana brand. Champion has several manufacturing facilities in Canada and the US, and Acana is based in Auburn, Kentucky. 

The Acana Wholesome Red Meat & Grains recipe is loaded with ranch-raised beef, Yorkshire pork, and grass-fed lamb. The formula is complemented with wholesome grains like oats, millet, and sorghum. These grains are high in fiber and gluten-free, offering added nutrition that helps support a dog’s healthy digestive system.

The benefits of Acana Red Meat & Grains Recipe are evident, with real nutrient-rich beef and pork at the top of the ingredients list, followed by wholesome grains, butternut squash, and pumpkin, all contributing to maintaining optimum gut health.

There are no apparent concerns for potential harm for dogs on this Acana Red Meat & Grains Recipe. However, the ingredients show twelve other meat-related components, which might be a bit much for dogs with weight issues because the dogs’ bodies store excess protein as fat.

Every dog will have different nutritional requirements depending on the breed, life stage, health, environment, and activity level. Maintain optimal body condition by adjusting food as necessary and asking your veterinarian if you have any doubts about grain-inclusive diets. Dogs with sensitive stomachs may gradually transition to new wet dog food to avoid any digestive upset.

25. Eukanuba Dog Adult All Breeds Salmon & Rice Dry Grain-Inclusive Dog Food 

Eukanuba Dog Foods was established in 1969, and in 2014, it was acquired by Mars Petcare US., headquartered in McLean, Virginia.

Eukanuba Adult Dry Dog Food Large Breed Rich in Salmon and Barley with a hint of spinach will transform your dog’s dinner time thanks to the delicious, succulent Norwegian Salmon, which is carefully blended with a host of high quality and natural ingredients. Full of pure taste, the freshly prepared salmon is naturally rich in healthy omega-3s and protein, making it the ideal food for dogs with dull or dry skin and coats.

A benefit for dogs on this diet is the unique DentaDefense to help keep canine teeth clean and healthy. However, dog owners who read the ingredients list might be left guessing because ingredients like Hydrolysed Animal Proteins and Animal Fat fail to indicate the specific animals and could be any species. Another concern for potential harm might relate to the recalls of Eukanuba dog foods before the company became a Mars subsidiary. 

Every dog will have different nutritional requirements depending on the breed, life stage, health, environment, and activity level. Maintain optimal body condition by adjusting food as necessary and asking your veterinarian if you have any doubts about grain-inclusive diets. Dogs with sensitive stomachs may gradually transition to new wet dog food to avoid any digestive upset.

What are the Facts that you should Know about Grain-Inclusive Dog Food?

Many dog owners have been convinced that grains in dog food cause harm to all dogs. However, for most dogs, certain grains are excellent nutrients. The fact is, not all grains are created equal, especially for dogs. As dogs receive nutrients from grains in the form of carbohydrates, which they use for energy, it’s essential to choose a grain-inclusive diet with top-notch grains and premium ingredients, so they get the best nutrition possible.

When checking the ingredients list on the dog food, a sign of good quality is when the primary animal protein sources are the first two on the list, followed by healthy vegetables and fruits. Next should be the grains, and knowing the difference between good and bad grains is helpful.

One of the healthiest grains on earth for dogs is farm-grown oats. Healthy grains to add include millet, sorghum, barley, brown or wild rice, and ground miscanthus grass. These grains help maintain a healthy digestive system and optimal nourishment. You don’t want to see corn, soy, tapioca, or gluten, and if you see them, chances are they were used as fillers.

Every dog will have different nutritional requirements depending on the breed, life stage, health, environment, and activity level. Maintain optimal body condition by adjusting food as necessary and asking your veterinarian if you have any doubts. Dogs with sensitive stomachs may gradually transition to new wet dog food to avoid any digestive upset.

What are the Price Factors for Grain-Inclusive Dog Foods?

Dog owners who consider transitioning from another type of dog diet to grain-inclusive dog food might have questions about the monthly cost of such a change. Several aspects of grain-inclusive diets should be considered, and some cost factors are listed below.

1. Protein Content: Proteins are usually the most expensive ingredient in grain-inclusive dog food, and then some proteins cost more than others. The lowest-priced protein is typically chicken, followed by turkey, pork, and beef. Duck, salmon, and seafood are significantly more expensive, and novel proteins like kangaroo, bison, emu, and quail are ultra-expensive.
2. Quality Ingredients: Top-quality ingredients affect the price of grain-inclusive dog food. Quality products contain more protein and less protein meal. Proteins like meat, chicken, and others have high water content, lost during high-temperature processing. Manufacturers replace the lost nutrients by adding protein meal, a perfectly healthy additive. However, the meal should never exceed the whole protein amount. The ingredient list needs to specify the meal source such as meat, chicken, fish, or other meal instead of listing it as protein meal or poultry meal which leaves the consumer guessing the source of the meal. High-quality grains like oatmeal, barley, and wild or whole brown rice are included rather than brewer’s rice or other low-quality carbs. The inclusion of antioxidant-providing vegetables and fruit and even added cheese could significantly increase the cost of grain-inclusive dog food.
3. Supplement Content: Added high-quality supplements play a significant role in the price of grain-inclusive dog food. Essential additives include Glucosamine and Chondroitin for joint protection, hip dysplasia, and osteoarthritis. Several probiotics are necessary for the promotion of digestion and to ease diarrhea, constipation, or other gastrointestinal problems. Added prebiotics provide food for the good bacteria in the dog’s gut. For reducing inflammation, omega-3 fatty acids are obtained from high-quality sources like salmon oil and fish oil. Unnecessary additives like artificial flavorings and colors are often added to cheaper brands of grain-inclusive dog food.

What is the Clean Label on Grain-Inclusive Dog Food Packages?

The Institute for Food Technologists defines the clean label on grain-inclusive dog food packages as a holistic way of manufacturing grain-inclusive dog food with limited healthy and wholesome ingredients. The ingredients must be natural and items that consumers can recognize when they read the grain-inclusive dog food package label.

The clean label trend is consumer-driven, which is necessary for dog owners who want to feed their dogs with the same care as the rest of their families. Consumers want to read the ingredients label, recognize the items and their health benefits, and feel comfortable that the company behind the brand cares as much as they do about the healthfulness of their dogs.

What is the Difference Between Grain-Inclusive Dog Food and Grain-Free Dog Food? 

Whole grains are an essential source of B vitamins, magnesium, selenium, iron, carbohydrates for energy, and fiber that aids in digestion for your dog.

Dog parents who suspect their canine companions have food allergies or adverse food reactions, as some call it, might seek advice online or from friends. The advice from nine in ten will likely be to put the dog on a grain-free diet. Nevertheless, it is rare for dogs to have allergies to grains in dog food, and animal protein like beef and chicken often cause food allergies in dogs. Some benefits of grain-inclusive dog food not present in grain-free food are listed below.

• In addition to whole grains, a diet rich in fibrous foods can help manage pathological conditions of the dog’s intestines. 
• Grains produce fiber that can take longer to be digested, causing dogs to feel full longer and causing them to eat less.
• Protein, minerals, and vitamins are all present in whole grains.
• Fiber helps to encourage healthy bacteria to grow in the dog’s stomach.
• Grains have a lower fat content than meat. 
• A dog on a reduced-calorie, low-fat diet can benefit from a diet rich in healthy, whole grains.

Grain-free dog food has its pros and cons, but ultimately a meal that has a balance of protein, fats, carbohydrates, and nutrients will provide your pup with the most nutrition. There is no one-size-fits-all diet, and every dog is unique. Formulating a healthy dog food that supports your dog’s dietary needs is based on factors like activity level, life stage, health issues, size, and, in some cases, breed. Their diet may or may not need to include grain.

Do Dogs Like the Taste of Grain-Inclusive Dog Food?

Dogs enjoy almost any brand of grain-inclusive food because many brands have added legumes, sweet potatoes, and other fruit and vegetables that enhance kibble taste. Grain-inclusive dog food tastes even better if served with tasty toppings or meat broth.

Where Can You Buy the Best Grain-Inclusive Dog Food?

Where to buy the best grain-inclusive dog foods should not be a significant problem because there is an endless list of online and brick-and-mortar dog food retailers. The most appropriate choice of retailer would be the one that stocks the brands of dog food that meet the dietary needs of a consumer’s different dogs. One dog owner could have a senior dog living with arthritis or other age-related health problems and a puppy with allergy problems.

The top ten dog food suppliers in the U.S. and their head offices are listed below.

• Mars Petcare, Inc, McLean, VA
• Nestlé Purina Petcare, St. Louis, MO
• Hill’s Pet Nutrition, Topeka, KS
• Diamond Pet Foods, Meta, MO
• Blue Buffalo, Wilton, CT
• Merrick Pet Care, Amarillo, TX
• Central Garden & Pet Walnut Creek, CA
• Amazon, online
• Chewy store, online 
• PetSmart, Phoenix, AZ and online

Do Most Vets Recommend Grain-Inclusive Dog Food?

Yes, many vets recommend that dog owners feed their dogs on grain-inclusive diets. They say grain-free diets are often given to dogs that don’t have diagnosed grain allergies. Grain allergies are relatively rare, and food allergies linked to the protein source rather than the grain source are significantly more common. Owners of dogs with allergies are advised to try limited ingredient diets that are grain-inclusive. Limited ingredients make identifying the source of allergies easier. 

Veterinary professionals noticed a worrying trend in grain-inclusive dog food; dogs eating these diets developed a rare heart condition. Heart muscle weakens due to Dilated Cardiomyopathy (DCM), which can be fatal. This disease is typically found only in a select few breeds, including the Great Dane, Doberman Pinscher, Cocker Spaniel, and Boxer. 

What is the Nutritional Value of Grain-inclusive Dog Food?

The nutritional value of grain-inclusive dry dog food based on averages is listed below.

• The average calorie amount of grain-inclusive dog food is between 325 and 600 calories per cup. 
• The average carb amount of grain-inclusive dog food is between 30 and 60% of the total daily meal, although no more than 14% is necessary for maintaining a dog’s health.
• The average protein amount of grain-inclusive dog food is 15% to 25% of the meal.
• The average fat amount of grain-inclusive dog food is 25% of the diet.

The nutritional value of dry dog food is on the product label, which could be confusing. Knowing which nutrients one would want to see on the labels could ease the process of choosing healthy dry dog food. The best dry dog food ingredients are listed below. 

• Specify meat, poultry, or fish instead of general terms like poultry or beef by-products. The cooking process to produce kibble reduces the nutritional value of the protein. Rendering the protein changes it into a dry meal which is the perfect way to replace the lost nutrients. However, the ingredients list must be specific in calling it a chicken meal, turkey meal, salmon meal, etc.
• Good carbohydrates as opposed to highly over-processed flours and mill runs. Healthy carbs include brown rice, oatmeal, and barley. Any corn and wheat derivatives cause illness and allergy risks and are often added as cheap fillers.
• Whole vegetables and fruits like peas, spinach, carrots, greens, berries, and apples are ingredients dog owners want to see on the best dry dog food labels.
• Fat sources must be specified as lamb fat, chicken fat, salmon oil, or sunflower oil, as opposed to animal fat, which can keep the dog owner guessing about the origin of the fat.
• Natural preservatives are crucial, and the excellent idea is to check for an expiry date. One unpronounceable term to look for is Mixed Tocopherols, the typical natural preservative used in top-quality dry dog food. Dry dog food without expiry dates is packed with synthetic preservatives and harmful chemicals.
• Premium vitamins a dog owner wants to see on the ingredients list include Vitamin E from mixed tocopherols, vitamins A, D3, B12, B6, choline chloride, thiamine mononitrate, biotin, and folic acid.
• Chelated Minerals are minerals that have been chemically attached to proteins for easier absorption by the dog’s body. They include zinc amino acid, iron amino acid, copper amino acid, and manganese amino acid.
• Omega 3 and 6 fatty acids are obtained from the recipe’s flaxseed, specified fish, or canola oil.
• If salt is added, it must be sea salt or iodized salt.

Statements like ‘’No outsourcing,” ‘’Food used in this product is fit for human consumption,” “Organic ingredients,” “Free-range poultry/meat sources,” and “Local and fresh human-grade ingredients,” are further indications of top quality dry dog food.

What are the Best Freeze-Dried Dog Foods?

Freeze-dried dog foods are the preferred choice of many dog owners. Some nutritionists agree because high-quality proteins like chicken, salmon, turkey, and other animal proteins often included in freeze-dried foods deliver excellent nutrition. Protein is essential for the maintenance and growth and maintenance of almost all the tissues in a dog’s body.

The four best freeze-dried dog foods are listed below.

• TruDog Freeze-Dried Raw Superfood: It contains 100% USA-born and raised cage-free turkeys.
• Buckley Liberty Freeze-Dried Dog Food: Used for a dog’s full meals or topper grain dog food.
• Instinct Freeze-Dried Raw Meals: The most affordable freeze-dried dog food despite containing as much as three times the volume of meat in kibbles and other non-GMO produce.
• Heed Foods: A boutique dog food company that produces top-quality, highly digestible prebiotic kibble with the added bonus of several freeze-dried mix-ins to choose from to make a dog’s dinner extra special.

The cheapest freeze-dried dog food is Instinct Raw Boost Mixers Chicken Recipe Grain-Free Freeze-Dried Dog Food Topper, with a price of $1.99 per ounce.

The freeze-dried puppy food that tastes the best is Stella & Chewy’s Tantalizing Turkey Meal Mixers costing $2.27 per ounce.

The average price for one ounce of freeze-dried kibble is $2.16 per ounce, compared to the traditional kibble cost of $1.97 per pound.

What are the Best Grain-inclusive Dog Foods to Mix with Wet Dog Food?

Mixing grains-inclusive dog foods with wet dog foods can benefit dogs’ hydration levels. Like humans, dogs’ bodies contain 75% water, and they need to drink lots of fluids to support the hydration of their bodies. 

• Wellness CORE Canned Wet Dog Food: This brand features five different premium meat sources to provide total, natural nutrition for your canine companion if you use it as a topper on grain-inclusive kibble.
• Merrick Canned Wet Dog Food: Grain Inclusive Dry dog food can be mixed with any of Merrick’s recipes for 12.7-oz canned dog food or Merrick’s 16-oz pouches of bone broth. 

The cheapest wet dog food to mix grain-inclusive dry kibble is Wag Chicken and Vegetable Stew at $0.20 per ounce.

The tastiest wet dog food to mix grain-inclusive dog food is Canidae All Life Stages Chicken and Rice at $3.15 per ounce.

The average price for wet dog food to mix grain-inclusive dry dog food is $7.57 per day.

What are the Best Grain-Inclusive Dog Foods for Puppies?

The best grain-inclusive dog foods for puppies meet the unique nutritional needs of puppies. Puppies need more calories than adult dogs. Their food must have proper essential nutrient levels like vitamins and minerals to boost the development of healthy immune systems, strong bones, and more. Owners of new puppies often overlook canned, grain-inclusive dog food, yet it can be highly nutritious. Compared to fresh puppy food recipes, canned puppy food recipes often contain fewer vegetables and a more significant amount of moisture. The brands listed below are included in the best grain-inclusive dog food list for puppies. Many puppy and dog owners provide their pups with a mix of dry and canned food to give their canine friends some much-deserved variety.

• Farmina N&D Ancestral Grain Chicken & Pomegranate Medium & Maxi Puppy Dry Dog Food: Made with the best ingredients with the correct amounts of protein, fats, limited carbohydrates, and advanced long-life vitamins and minerals. 
• Wellness Complete Health Puppy Dry Dog Food: This balanced, healthy grain-inclusive dry dog food is designed to encourage healthy brain development, optimize energy levels, ensure healthy skin and coat while promoting whole-body health
• Blue Buffalo Life Protection Formula: This Chicken & Brown Rice Recipe for puppies features delicious, protein-rich deboned chicken. And because puppyhood is such a crucial stage, it features ingredients that support healthy growth and development.

The cheapest freeze-dried dog food is Purina Pro Plan Puppy Chicken & Rice Formula Grain-inclusive dry dog food at $1.54 per pound.

The tastiest grain-inclusive dry dog food is VICTOR Purpose Nutra Pro Dry Dog Food. This nutrient-dense recipe is high in protein and contains low carbs to sustain active puppies’ energy. It is also ideal for growing puppies and pregnant or lactating females. Made with gluten-free grains

The average price for one pound of Grain-Inclusive dried dog food is $1.97 per pound.

What are the Brands for the Best Grain-Inclusive Dog Food?

Looking to save money on dog food does not mean settling for cheap bulking agents and fillers. 

Good quality grain-inclusive dog foods are available, and knowing which ingredients to look for will help. Dog owners must consider the size, breed, age, and health of the dog. The brands to look for are listed below.

PRODUCT	PRICE
Wellness Complete Health Whitefish & Sweet Potato Grain-Inclusive – 30-lb bag	$59.44
Taste of the Wild Ancient Prairie with Ancient Grains Dry Dog Food – 28-lb bag	$51.99
Nature’s Logic Beef Meal Feast Grain-Inclusive – 25-lb bag	$69.43
Diamond Naturals Large Breed Puppy Formula Dry Dog Food – 40-lb bag	$47.99
Nutro Ultra Holistic Superfood Blend Grain-Inclusive – 30-lb bag	$57.93
Eagle Pack Natural Dry Large Breed Dog Food Grain-Inclusive, 30-lb bag	$59.75

What are the Other Dog Food Types?

It may not be as versatile as human food, but there are still plenty of options for dog food. In selecting food for a dog, finding one that meets the needs of every aspect of its nutritional profile should be the top priority. There are five different dog food types as listed below.

• Dry dog food Grain-Free: Kibble is Dry dog food that can be grain-free or grain inclusive. To ensure it is balanced and complete, ensure it is certified by the Association of American Feed Control Officials. Dry dog food without AAFCO certification usually doesn’t meet the standards, containing synthetic minerals and vitamins.
• Dehydrated and freeze-dried: Some popular new pet food formats are dehydrated or freeze-dried foods, either entirely raw or lightly cooked beforehand. This type of food retains more nutrients than kibble or wet food heated to a higher temperature. While this may be a newer format for many pet owners, it does have some exceptional benefits.
• Freeze-dried raw: Some forms of raw feeding are gaining popularity. While they are entirely raw, the moisture has been removed, and the product has been pressed into small pucks, patties, or pellets. Freeze-dried raw diets must be re-hydrated; otherwise, they will absorb moisture from your dog, resulting in dehydration and possible bloat.
• Semi-Moist: This term is used for foods shaped like bacon strips, burgers, pork chops, and other dog favorites. However, it is typically only the shape that links it to a healthy protein. These items are usually without any nutrients and packed with artificial flavors and colorings. Semi-moist dog foods can be given as occasional treats, but they should never form a part of a dog’s diet.
• Home Cooked: Dog owners who want to have complete control over the nutrients they feed their pups may choose to cook their dogs’ meals. This might be the ideal way to ensure a dog gets all the nutrients it needs. However, it is time-consuming and requires familiarity with canine nutrition because their needs differ from humans.
• Raw Food: Going all-natural is not uncommon, and many families choose to change their lifestyles, including that of their dogs. Raw meat and bones are the primary proteins and organs included in the mix. Raw bones are natural calcium and phosphorus sources. Most dogs are perfectly able to digest raw food, but it is wise to discuss the change with a vet before switching to a raw diet.

What are the Best Grain-Inclusive Dog Foods for Dogs with Allergies?

Allergies to grains exist, but allergies to protein sources are more likely to occur. The most common allergy reported in one study of 278 dogs was beef, which accounted for 95 cases. Next in line was dairy, with 55 cases reported—only 7 of the cases involved corn. In most cases, grain-free diets are not healthier for your dog unless it has a grain allergy. 

One of the following ways might mitigate any allergic reactions in dogs.

• Limited ingredients: Rachael Ray Nutrish Limited Ingredient Recipe dry grain-inclusive dog food is free from common allergens, including corn, wheat, and soy. Chicken fat is included. However, when dogs are allergic to a type of food, they are allergic to the protein found in that food. Chicken fat does not have any proteins, so your dog will not be allergic to it – even if they are allergic to chicken.
• Hypoallergenic recipes: Royal Canin Veterinary Diet Hydrolyzed Protein Moderate Calorie Dry Dog Food. Hydrolyzed proteins are proteins that have been chemically “split” (hydrolyzed) into their basic amino acid building blocks, making the original allergen virtually “invisible” to your dog’s immune system. Therefore your dog is less likely to experience an allergic reaction to the food. Veterinarians and Nutritionists have developed clinical nutrition specially formulated to help dogs with discomfort and various skin conditions due to food sensitivity.

What are the Best Grain-Inclusive Dog Foods for French Bulldogs?

The best grain-inclusive dog food for French Bulldogs are those that meet their unique nutritional needs. Understanding those needs can help owners avert inherent health problems and ensure optimum health. Two of the best grain-inclusive dog food options for French Bulldogs are listed below.

• Purina Pro Plan Shredded Blend Adult Small Breed Chicken & Rice Formula Dry Dog Food: This grain-inclusive Purina Pro Plan formula gets most animal protein from fresh chicken and poultry by-product meal. A nutrient-dense design with a smaller kibble size. A top recipe for small and medium breeds.
• Merrick Classic Healthy Grains Real Beef + Brown Rice Recipe with Ancient Grains Adult Dry Dog Food: This Merrick formula gets the major part of its animal protein from a combination of fresh beef and pork meal. A classic, grain-inclusive design with no peas, lentils, or other plant-based protein boosters. Ideal for dog owners who prefer a traditional, grain-based recipe.

What are the Best Grain-Inclusive Dog Foods for Huskies?

The best grain-inclusive dog food for a Husky depends on the dog’s age. Husky puppies, adults, and seniors all have different nutritional needs. Adult Huskies can thrive on just about any well-balanced grain-inclusive dog food. However, Husky puppies are predisposed to develop Hip Dysplasia, a crippling, permanent disease that can be prevented by ensuring their food does not contain too much calcium while they are growing. Grain-inclusive food is recommended for senior dogs because the high protein content in grain-free recipes provides too much energy for old dogs. Below is a list of top-quality grain-inclusive dog food for Huskies.

• Diamond Naturals All Life Stages: Diamond Naturals All Life Stages gets the lion’s share of its animal protein from fresh chicken and chicken meal. Dry matter label analysis reveals the recipe contains 29% protein, 18% fat, and 45% estimated carb, resulting in a fat-to-protein ratio of about 62%. A healthy, budget-friendly brand for active, high-energy huskies
• Nutro Max Large Breed Natural Chicken Meal & Rice Adult Recipe Dry Dog Food: Nutro MAX Large Breed Adult Dry Dog Food is formulated for the specific needs of large breed adult dogs like Huskies using only the finest ingredients that can be traced back to their sources — like real chicken protein from farm-raised chickens and whole grains. Nutro uses the best ingredients, and you’ll never find any chicken by-product meal, corn, wheat, or soy protein in their dog food.

What are the Best Grain-Inclusive Dog Foods for Labradors?

Labradors’ best grain-inclusive dog food must be high in top-quality proteins and fats from animal sources. There is no specific brand of grain-inclusive dog food that is best for Labradors, but the best choice would be a brand with specified meat as the first ingredient and high levels of protein in their nutritional makeup. Labrador Retrievers are predisposed to hip dysplasia, so avoid dog foods with high calcium contents for growing pups.

Two top choices of grain-inclusive dog food for Labradors are listed below.

• CANIDAE All Life Stages Chicken, Turkey, Lamb, and Fish Meal Formula Dry Dog Food: Make mealtimes easy, tasty, and nutritious with the CANIDAE All Life Stages Chicken, Turkey, Lamb, and Fish Meal Formula Dry Dog Food. This vet-formulated recipe is specifically designed for dogs of all breeds, sizes, and ages. Its calcium content is safe for dogs predisposed to hip dysplasia. It features premium ingredients and optimum protein and is completely free of corn, wheat, and soy for the wholesome nutrition your dog deserves. 
• Purina Pro Plan Large Breed Puppy: Big puppies grow into even bigger buddies, but they need the proper nutrition to do it. This Proplan formula gives them everything they need, lean chicken to keep their bodies toned and trim, DHA-rich fish oil for brain and vision development, and the ideal calcium-phosphorus balance to minimize the risk of hip and joint disease for growing Labs.

What are the Best Grain-Inclusive Dog Foods for Dachshunds?

Choosing the best grain-inclusive dog food for Dachshunds needs special care and attention. Dachshund owners should consider the following when deciding on the best grain-inclusive dog food for their pups. Due to their long spines, Dachshunds are predisposed to intervertebral disk disease, and they need controlled amounts of calories, protein, and fat. The top best choices of grain-inclusive dog food for Dachshunds are listed below.

• Royal Canin Dog Food For Dachshunds: This kibble has an ideal ratio of protein, fat, and carbohydrates and as well as an appropriate amount of calcium and phosphorus, so it’s guaranteed to help maintain your pet’s healthy bones, joints, and muscles. Furthermore, the specific shape of kibble encourages chewing and helps reduce dental plaque and tartar buildup. This healthy dog food is highly aromatic and palatable, even for picky eaters.
• Blue Buffalo Life Protection Formula Dog Food: The Blue Buffalo is no stranger to making great-quality pet foods, and this particular kibble – small breed, healthy weight, chicken, and brown rice– is no exception. With plenty of protein, healthy fats, and fiber, this dog food is sure to keep your Dachshund healthy, energetic, and great-looking. Containing whole grains and real chicken but no fillers of any kind, this kibble is a fantastic blend of essential nutrients, antioxidants, vitamins, and minerals that support the dog’s immune system and healthy muscle development. An optimal balance of omega-6 and omega-3 fatty acids promotes a shiny coat and healthy skin, while veggies like carrots, sweet potatoes, and peas work on boosting your dog’s energy levels.

What are the Best Grain-Inclusive Dog Foods for Small Sized Dogs?

The best grain-inclusive dog foods for small breeds are formulated to provide balanced nutrition for doggies whose adult weights do not exceed 20 pounds. Small breeds tend to have higher metabolic rates than larger breeds. Thus, the best choice of grain-inclusive foods for small breeds must be formulated to optimize their health. Two of the top choices are listed below.

• Merrick Classic Small Breed Adult Grain-Inclusive: This delicious dry food for small dogs features a smaller kibble size and real deboned chicken as the very first ingredient. It’s combined with essential vitamins and minerals for a complete and balanced diet that includes brown rice and ancient grains such as quinoa to aid in digestion. This dry dog food is developed with high levels of omega fatty acids to help promote healthy skin and a shiny coat while glucosamine and chondroitin support hip and joint function. It is perfect for helping small dogs build healthy muscles and does not contain any potatoes, peas, or lentils.

• Blue Buffalo Life Protection Small Breed Adult: This grain-inclusive recipe, designed for small dogs and crafted with real, recognizable ingredients like real beef first, plus whole food carrots. All life stages of petite and small breed dogs. Small breeds tend to have higher metabolic rates than larger breeds. Thus, the best choice of wet foods for small breeds must be formulated to optimize their health.

What are the Best Grain-Inclusive Dog Foods for Medium-Sized Dogs?

When choosing the best grain-inclusive dog food for a medium-sized dog, its breed, life stage, and health will determine its nutritional requirements. The six essential nutrients are proteins, water, fats, minerals, carbohydrates, and vitamins. Two of the best grain-inclusive dog foods suitable for most medium-sized dogs are listed below.

• Wellness Complete Health Adult Deboned Turkey and Oatmeal: This natural dry food for medium-sized dogs is specially formulated to provide whole-body nutritional support. It is crafted using carefully chosen ingredients that include premium proteins and wholesome grains supported by omega fatty acids, antioxidants, glucosamine, probiotics, and taurine. This balanced, healthy dry dog food is designed to encourage a strong immune system, optimize energy levels, and ensure healthy skin and coat while promoting whole-body health. It is developed without GMOs, meat by-products, fillers, or artificial preservatives.
• Nature’s Logic Canine Chicken Meal Feast All Life Stages Dry Dog Food: Nature’s Logic Chicken Meal Feast is a 100% natural, highly palatable, nutrient rich dry dog food featuring high-quality, high-protein chicken meal from USA-raised chicken as the first ingredient. The diet features concentrate of select fruits and vegetables, and the kibble is specially coated with digestive enzymes and plasma protein containing high levels of natural vitamins, minerals, and albumin and globulin proteins. Plus, it’s made without the use of potatoes, peas, lentils, wheat, corn, rice, soy, potato, or chemically synthesized vitamins, minerals, trace nutrients, carrageenan, guar gum, or xanthan gum.

What are the Best Grain-Inclusive Dog Foods for Large Dogs?

The best grain-inclusive dog foods for large breed canines are different from the formulas for medium and small dogs. The nutritional demands of big dogs should meet the unique needs to support their different body structures. The ingredients of all large breed dogs’ foods should include nutrition to promote healthy, strong joints, from puppyhood through maturity. One of the most common problems in large breed dogs is hip dysplasia, a skeletal problem where the hip joints don’t form properly. Glucosamine, chondroitin, and omega fatty acids will decrease joint inflammation and help the dog’s body repair and strengthen tissues. Below are the top two grain-inclusive dog food products for large breed dogs.

• Eagle Pack Chicken & Pork Large Breed Adult Dry Dog Food: This recipe is a delicious chicken and pork formula grain-inclusive dog food made in the USA with a unique blend of proteins, fats, and carbohydrates. It is designed to help keep adult dogs that weigh over 50 pounds happy and healthy. Additionally, glucosamine, omega fatty acids, and antioxidants promote joint health, skin health, and a strong immune system. You’ll love the wholesome health benefits and your canine companion.
• Diamond Naturals Large Breed Adult Chicken & Rice Formula Dry Dog Food: This formula is enhanced with superfoods and guaranteed probiotics to support your furry friend’s development and overall health. This large breed adult dry dog food recipe is made with real cage-free chicken, whole grain brown rice, and real fruit and vegetables, including kale, blueberries, and coconut. It provides your furry friend with protein and minerals, along with omega fatty acids to help promote healthy skin and a shiny coat, plus antioxidants for overall nose-to-tail well-being.

What are the Best grain-inclusive Dog Foods for Itchy Skin?

Itchy Skin problems in dogs are more likely to improve by changing the dog’s diet to a limited ingredient program that can help identify the cause of the itching. Limited ingredient diets involve food with fewer ingredients, like only one protein, making it easier to identify the allergen that causes the itchy skin. 

Veterinarians say grain allergies cause only 10% of food allergies in dogs. Therefore, a vet might recommend a hypoallergenic diet instead. It contains hydrolyzed proteins, which means they have been broken down into their basic building blocks called amino acids. An example of one of the best grain-inclusive dog food products of each diet is listed below.

• Royal Canin Veterinary Diet Hydrolyzed Protein Adult HP Dry Dog Food: This is a highly palatable diet designed for adult dogs and puppies. It’s formulated with hydrolyzed proteins composed of low molecular weight peptides that can be absorbed in the digestive tract with a reduced risk of triggering an immune reaction. Optimal amounts of B vitamins and amino acids reinforce your dog’s skin barrier. Omega-3 fatty acids EPA and DHA help promote healthy skin and coat. An exclusive blend of fibers helps support healthy digestion in dogs prone to digestive upsets, including diarrhea. And with strict manufacturing procedures to help avoid cross-contamination, you can confidently feed Royal Canin Hydrolyzed Protein Adult HP long-term to dogs with food sensitivities.
• Natural Balance L.I.D. Limited Ingredient Diets Salmon & Brown Rice Formula Dry Dog Food: This recipe is crafted to satisfy every type of dog. This simple recipe features a select mix of premium ingredients designed to provide your adult dog with the essential vitamins and minerals he needs to conquer any tiring hike or a stressful trip to the vet. The unique formula is made without gluten ingredients and relies on whole-grain brown rice to fuel your pal’s digestion. Real salmon is packed with amino acids to help build strong muscles.

What are the Best Chicken-Free Grain-Inclusive Dog Foods?

When choosing the best grain-inclusive dog food for dogs with chicken-related sensitivities, careful consideration is necessary because animal protein is vital in any dog’s diet. Chicken is the most prevalent protein in grain-inclusive dog foods, mainly because it is the cheapest protein on the market. However, many dogs have allergic reactions to poultry, and their owners must find alternative diet options for their dogs. Below are two of the best chicken-free grain-inclusive dog food options available.

• Blue Buffalo Basics Limited Ingredient Formula Salmon & Potato Recipe Adult Dry Dog Food: Blue Buffalo’s Basics Limited Ingredient Formula is a delicious, limited-ingredient, chicken-free diet made with fewer ingredients for canine companions with food sensitivities. This recipe starts with real salmon and includes pumpkin and easily digestible carbohydrates like potatoes and peas. It’s also crafted with BLUE’s exclusive LifeSource Bits—a combination of selected antioxidants, minerals, and vitamins picked by veterinarians and animal nutritionists to support your dog’s overall health and wellness.
• Acana Singles Limited Ingredient Diet, Dry Dog Food, High Protein, Wholesome Grains: This formula is high in fiber, gluten-free, and chicken-free, 60 percent premium duck ingredients balanced with high-quality grains, butternut squash, and pumpkin to support optimal gut health. Rich in protein from a single animal source, providing the nutrient-rich diet your dog needs to stay happy and healthy. Suitable for dogs of all life stages, enriched with a proprietary heart-healthy vitamin pack that supports the proper function of the nervous and circulatory systems in dogs of all ages. No artificial colors, flavorings, or preservatives.

What are the Best Grain-Inclusive Dog Foods for Shih Tzu dogs?

The choice of the best grain-inclusive dog food for Shih Tzu dogs will depend on their life stage. A grain-inclusive dry food formulated for an adult Shih Tzu may not have enough calcium or protein for a puppy, or it could have too many calories or too little protein for an inactive senior Shih Tzu. Histidine is an essential amino acid of which a Shih Tzu puppy needs more than double the amount required by an adult dog.

• Nutro Ultra Small Breed Adult Dry Dog Food: Ideal for a Shih Tzu adult, this blend contains the perfect mix of premium lean proteins, antioxidant-rich fruits and vegetables, whole grains, and healthy oils to help your dog be at his best. Combined protein sources from high-quality natural and holistic ingredients ensure optimal amino acid levels and great taste for your dog. Ultra Adult dog foods are made and tailored specifically for adult dogs, providing 100% complete and balanced nutrition for adult maintenance.
• Health Extension Little Bites Chicken & Brown Rice Recipe Dry Dog Food: Specially formulated for teacup, toy, and miniature breed puppies and adult dogs, made with organic, free-range chicken as the first ingredient, plus wholesome ingredients like brown rice, flaxseeds, and lamb. Designed to provide a balanced diet and promote overall health, it also has superfoods like blue-green algae, ginger, apple cider vinegar, and essential vitamins and minerals. Plus, it has probiotics for tummy health, CoQ10 to support heart health, and kelp for a balanced blend of omega-3 and -6 fatty acids. The hypoallergenic, anti-hypoglycemic formula is made with no added sugar, gluten, corn, wheat, soy, by-products, artificial preservatives, or colors.

What are the Best Grain-Inclusive Dog Foods to Prevent Tear Stains?

Choosing the best grain-inclusive dog food is essential, especially if the dog owner wants to avoid tear stains on a puppy’s face. Many people do not realize that those awful tear stains on the white faces of their Maltese or other fluffy dogs could be caused by the food they eat. Generally, cheap dog food doesn’t ensure long-term good health and is more likely to produce tear stains than high-quality options. Two of the best grain-inclusive dog foods to prevent tear stains are listed below.

• Wellness Complete Health Adult Dry Dog Food, Whitefish & Sweet Potato Recipe: For tear stain prevention and clearance, this product from Wellness has achieved outstanding results since its inception. It uses a single protein, the adult whitefish, in its formula while also integrating sweet potatoes to help ease digestion for sensitive dogs. As the primary source of protein, Whitefish are easily digestible, and the fish flavor will always leave your dog yearning for more. This wellness food is ideal for dogs with poor feeding habits, sensitive tummies, or tear stains.
• Hill’s Science Diet For Sensitive Stomach & Skin Adult, Chicken Recipe: This dry food by Hill’s is meant for dogs with sensitive stomachs and irritable skin. It comes with a chicken and barley flavor and is ideal for all breeds and all sizes. You’ll love this dry dog food, more so if your pup or dog has tear lines that you want to eliminate. Moreover, prebiotic fiber’s presence helps support a balanced acidity in the gut microbiome. Its unique 100% organic formula targets smooth ingestion, meaning tear stains will no longer emerge on your best friend.

What are the Best Grain-Inclusive Dog Foods containing Glucosamine?

When choosing the best dog food for large breed dogs, noting that a significant percentage of dogs suffer arthritis due to degeneration of their joints as they age is essential. Fortunately, changing the dog’s diet to a grain-inclusive dog food containing glucosamine could prevent the pup’s suffering. Glucosamine is a natural substance that helps to reduce arthritis pain in dogs as they age. Degeneration of joints can be prevented if the dog’s diet includes glucosamine through adulthood. Two of the best grain-inclusive dog food products containing glucosamine are listed below.

• Blue Buffalo Protection Dog Food: Blue Buffalo 32 Life Protection Dry Dog Food is the best dog food with glucosamine you can get. This formula is all-natural and holistic. It contains healthy levels of protein, carbohydrates, antioxidants, vitamins, and minerals. Your pup will also benefit from the life source bits throughout the kibble that have been cold-formed and concentrated with essential nutrients. This dry dog food is designed to support your pup’s immune system, care for a healthy coat, and keep muscles, bones, teeth, and joints strong. It is high in protein and manufactured in the USA. Overall, this is the best dog food with glucosamine you can get. 

• Diamond Naturals Glucosamine Dog Food: This grain-inclusive dry dog food comes in a chicken, egg, and oatmeal flavor that pups love. Made with cage-free chicken in the USA, this holistic and natural dog food is processed without corn, wheat, fillers, and artificial colors or preservatives. The probiotics make it an easy-to-digest choice, and it is excellent for all sizes and breeds. The formula is packed with glucosamine and chondroitin to relieve arthritis pain and creaky joints. Easy to chew, the Diamond Naturals dog food lists chicken meal as the second ingredient; however, the protein level points toward a higher quality ingredient.

What are the Best Grain-Inclusive Dog Foods containing Pumpkin?

The best grain-inclusive dog food with pumpkin can aid and regulate digestion and relieve dogs with digestive issues. Pumpkin also offers high-quality carbohydrates, minerals, and vitamins to benefit a dog’s nutrition further. The bulk of the nutrition in pumpkin is dietary fiber and carbohydrates.

• Earthborn Holistic Venture Duck Meal And Pumpkin Review: In this Venture recipe, pumpkin is the primary carbohydrate ingredient unprecedented in mainstream dry dog food. Traditional ingredients like peas and chickpeas are still present in some formulas but in far smaller proportions than usual.
• Wholesome Grains, Lamb & Pumpkin Recipe, Limited Ingredient Diet: Our ACANA food for dogs always goes beyond the 1st ingredient, thoughtfully crafted from start to finish. ACANA Wholesome Grains Limited Ingredient Diet Lamb & Pumpkin Recipe is packed with 60%* quality lamb ingredients and complemented with whole, delicious pumpkin, and fiber-rich wholesome grains. It provides complete nutrition for picky dogs or healthy dogs with food sensitivities.

What are the Best Grain-Inclusive Dog Foods for Dogs with Pancreatitis?

Choosing the best grain-inclusive dog food for a pup with pancreatitis is crucial. Pancreatitis is a severe and painful condition. One of the dietary tools vets often use to ease the dog’s pancreatic enzyme production is a low-fat, highly digestible diet while allowing the pancreas recovery time.

•  Annamaet 25% Medium & Large Breed Dry Dog Food: This grain-inclusive recipe is specially crafted for medium and large dog breeds. It’s packed with high-quality ingredients, including wholesome grains and real chicken for the protein your pup needs to fuel his adventures. Omega-3 fatty acid, DHA, is included to support your canine companion’s brain health and promote healthy skin and a lustrous coat. At the same time, chelated minerals help optimize mineral absorption and support his immune system. And just like all Annamaet formulas, this recipe is also completely free from corn, wheat, and soy.
• Nutro Natural Choice Healthy Weight Adult Chicken & Brown Rice Recipe Dry Dog Food: If your dog needs some extra help to maintain a healthy weight, try Nutro Natural Choice Healthy Weight Adult Dry Dog Food, Chicken & Brown Rice Recipe Dog Kibble. This dry dog food is designed to support healthy weight loss with a tailored blend of protein and fiber. This recipe is made with chicken, providing a high-quality source of protein. It’s also formulated with essential antioxidants to support your canine companion’s immune system and natural fiber to support healthy digestion. You can feel great about this non-GMO food, made with recognizable ingredients and no chicken by-product meal, corn, wheat, or soy. In severe cases, pancreatitis can affect the health of the liver and other neighboring organs. Taking your dog to your trusted veterinarian is crucial if you suspect pancreatitis.

What are the Best Grain-Inclusive Dog Foods for Yorkies?

Your Yorkie deserves the best grain-inclusive food. Toy Yorkshire Terriers, weighing between 5-7 pounds, are cute and cuddly dogs of the toy breed. 

To get the best dog food for your Yorkie, you should feed him dog food formulated for toy breeds. This food is high in fat, calories, and nutrition, and they come in smaller kibble sizes for easier chewing in those tiny mouths. 

• CANIDAE All Life Stages Chicken, Turkey, Lamb, and Fish Meal Formula Dry Dog Food: Make mealtimes easy, tasty, and nutritious with the CANIDAE All Life Stages Chicken, Turkey, Lamb, and Fish Meal Formula Dry Dog Food. This vet-formulated recipe is specifically designed for small dogs like Yorkies of all life stages. It features premium ingredients and optimum protein and is completely free of corn, wheat, and soy for the wholesome nutrition your dog deserves. This all-in-one approach to feeding makes mealtime for multi-dog households much more straightforward than dealing with multiple bags of different foods. Single-dog households will also enjoy the benefits—no more guessing or switching based on your dog’s age, breed, or size. One bag is all you need for the great-tasting nutrition your furry friend loves.
• Wellness Small Breed Complete Health Adult Turkey & Oatmeal Recipe Dry Dog Food: This natural dry food is specially formulated to provide whole-body nutritional support in a smaller kibble size for your Yorkie or another small breed dog. It is crafted using carefully chosen ingredients that include premium proteins and wholesome grains supported by omega fatty acids, antioxidants, glucosamine, probiotics, and taurine. This balanced, healthy dry dog food is designed to encourage a strong immune system, optimize energy levels and ensure healthy skin and coat while promoting whole-body health. It is developed without GMOs, meat by-products, fillers, or artificial preservatives, so you can be sure Rover is always getting the right food.

Unfortunately, the Yorkie breed is predisposed to health concerns such as collapsing tracheas, hypoglycemia, and dental issues. Thus, it is crucial to feed Yorkies a nutritionally balanced food developed specifically for their wellbeing.

What are the Best Grain-Inclusive Foods for Dogs with Sensitive Stomachs?

The best grain-inclusive dog food for canines with sensitive stomachs would depend on the dog’s age, diet, health, and weight. For example, older dogs (7 years or more) and puppies are more likely to suffer digestive problems. Yorkies, Great Danes, and German Shepherds are more likely to be born with a sensitive stomach or develop it later in life.

Food allergies also cause many digestive conditions. Ingredients low in quality (fillers, wheat, corn, etc.) can also cause chronic digestive issues and flare-ups. It may take you a while to find the perfect food recipe for your pup because of its sensitive stomach.

Following are grain-inclusive dog foods suitable for dogs with sensitive stomachs and are highly rated by owners who have already given them to their dogs.

• Hill’s Science Diet Adult Sensitive Stomach & Skin Chicken Recipe Dry Dog Food: This dry dog food formula is specifically designed for adult dogs. It features real chicken first and contains prebiotic fiber to support a balanced microbiome for healthy digestion. This recipe also delivers an abundant source of vitamin E and omega-6 fatty acids to promote healthy skin and a lustrous coat. You’ll love knowing that it’s backed by decades of cutting-edge research.
• Royal Canin Veterinary Diet Gastrointestinal Low Fat Dry Dog Food: This is a palatable, digestible recipe of dog food low-fat formulated for dogs that may have difficulties digesting or tolerating fat. Prebiotics help maintain the balance of good bacteria in the gut. A blend of dietary fibers supports healthy digestion for optimal stool quality. Omega-3 fatty acids, EPA and DHA, from fish oil help soothe the GI tract. And a precise blend of antioxidants supports a healthy immune system. Ask your veterinarian about Royal Canin Gastrointestinal Low Fat Wet Dog Food and Gastrointestinal treats as a complement to your dog’s diet.

What are the Best Grain-Inclusive Dog Foods for Picky Eater Dogs?

Finding the best grain-inclusive dog food to tickle the taste buds of a picky eater dog could be frustrating. You can try different protein sources. Does your dog prefer beef or chicken? Neither? Then perhaps your pup would fancy a less popular choice, like venison or duck.

• Purina Pro Plan Savor Shredded Beef and Rice Formula: This food is not just tasty; it is also an excellent option for dogs who are prone to digestive difficulties. It accomplishes this, in part, by relying on rice (something dogs tend to digest easily) as the primary carbohydrate source. It also features a probiotic strain to support digestive function further.
• Rachael Ray Nutrish Dish Natural Beef & Brown Rice Recipe with Veggies, Fruit & Chicken Dry Dog Food: With real ingredients, you can see Rachael Ray’s Nutrish Dish Beef & Brown Rice Recipe Dry Dog Food serves up simple goodness in a nutritious meal. Farm-raised beef and slow-roasted chicken with a hickory smoke flavor are combined with brown rice, cranberries, and tree-ripened apples to add a healthy dose of fiber. It’s a truly delicious dish that follows a simple recipe full of high-quality protein, essential nutrients, and a mouthwatering taste.

What are the Best Grain-Inclusive Dog Foods for German Shepherds?

Choosing the best grain-inclusive dog food for a German Shepherd dog is vital. Adult German Shepherds are known for their skin allergies and sensitive stomachs, and this is the main reason you need to pay close attention to the food they are eating and create a special diet for them.

• VICTOR Purpose Nutra Pro Dry Dog Food: Keep your active German Shepherd pup happy and healthy with VICTOR Purpose Nutra Pro Dry Dog Food. This nutrient-dense recipe is high in protein and contains low carbs to provide sustained energy for sporting dogs and furry friends with high physical demands. It is also ideal for growing puppies and pregnant or lactating females. Made with gluten-free grains, VICTOR Purpose Nutra Pro Dry Dog Food is an excellent choice for dogs with moderate to high daily activity levels.
• Dr. Gary’s Best Breed Holistic German Dry Dog Food: This is a nutritionally dense diet holistically formulated for large and giant breeds, including German shepherds, Rottweilers, and Dobermans. This recipe provides premium protein from chicken, menhaden fish, and eggs to support muscle development and maintenance. New Zealand green-lipped sea mussel (a natural source of glucosamine and chondroitin) supports proper joint and connective tissue health. Quality fiber sources and highly digestible ingredients promote maximum nutrient absorption, which helps large breed dogs maintain a healthy weight.

How does the Ingredients List on Grain-Inclusive Dry Dog Food Work?

At first glance, an ingredient statement on a pet food product can be pretty overwhelming. An ingredient list must display all ingredients from most to least by weight. The biggest contributors are first, and the smallest are last. The first five are where you want to see the primary ingredients in the list.

What Ingredients Should be in Grain-Inclusive Dry Dog Food?

Here are a few basic things you would want to see on the ingredients list when choosing best dry dog food.

1. Proteins must be specified, and meals are good sources if the source is named. Choose dog food stating beef and beef meal instead of meat meal, and chicken meal rather than poultry meal. The same applies to byproducts. The liver, kidneys, and hearts of animals may not be in demand by humans, but they can be beneficial for dogs if included in dog food. However, it must state the origin of the byproducts.
2. Fats and oils are essential, but again, they must be specified. You want to see chicken fat and not poultry fat and herring oil instead of fish oil. Omega-3 and -6 fatty acids need not be high levels because any fish oil in the recipe will provide more.
3. Carbohydrate sources must be whole ground grains such as rice, oats, barley, millet, and potatoes, sweet potatoes, peas. Corn is also a good carb, but not near the top of the ingredients list.
4. Fruits and vegetables provide a nice touch if they are organic and unprocessed. However, the dog owner should not base the choice on the fruit or vegetable content.
5. Flavorings to look for are stocks or broths made with liver or other parts of specified animals like chicken, beef, etc.
6. Preservatives you want to see include Mixed Tocopherols (Vitamin E), Rosemary-, Sage-, or Clove Extract, Ascorbyl Palmitate, Ascorbic Acid, and other forms of Vitamin C.
7. Sweeteners should not be added to kibble, but small amounts of honey or Blackstrap Molasses contain trace minerals, and they can be near the bottom of the list of ingredients for treats.
8. Supplements may seem to be written in a foreign language, but here’s what you can accept as safe. Chelated minerals are also labeled as chelates, proteinates, amino acid chelates, or polysaccharide complexes. Nonacidic, time-released versions of Vitamin C (labeled as Ester C, Calcium Ascorbate, Stabilized Vitamin C or L-Ascorbyl-2-Polyphosphate), natural Vitamin E (Tocopherol, Natural Tocopherol), and natural sources of Vitamin K (egg yolk, liver, oats, kelp, alfalfa)

What Bad Ingredients Should Be Avoided in Grain-Inclusive Dry Dog Food?

Dog owners would benefit from learning about the many ways dog food manufacturers hide bad ingredients on the list. One method they use is known as ingredient splitting. It involves loading the recipe with something like peas, which are a protein source, but they list it as peas, pea flour, pea protein, and pea starch, and when you add them all together, the volume of peas might exceed the amount of real meat protein. 

Look out for the following bad ingredients when you buy kibble.

1. Generic meat products include meat, meat byproduct, meat byproduct meal, meat and bone meal, blood meal, fish, fish meal, poultry, poultry by-products, poultry meal, poultry by-product meal, liver, liver meal, glandular meat, etc. Without specifying the source, the consumer is left guessing.
2. Fats and oils can be equally misleading when sources are not specified. Choose chicken fat rather than fat or poultry fat. Unspecified ingredients like animal fat, poultry meal, vegetable oil, fish oil, or mineral oil are unacceptable.
3. Carbohydrates Carbohydrates are necessary, but not when listed as fragments like potato product, middlings or mids, or mill run, unspecified grain sources like cereal food fines, distiller’s grain, fermentation solubles, etc.
4. Fibers on the list should not include corn bran, peanut hulls, rice hulls, soybean hulls, and oat hulls.
5. Fruits and vegetables should be whole natural fresh produce, not apple pomace, grape pomace, citrus pulp, beet pulp, etc.
6. Flavorings to look out for include all highly rendered products like any kind of digests, broth from unknown sources, glandular meal, artificial flavoring. Also, any form of onion is toxic to dogs.
7. Preservatives like BHA, BHT, Ethoxyquin, TBHQ, and Metabisulphite are all harmful to dogs.
8. Sweeteners should never be added to dog food, so look out for cane molasses, any form of corn syrup, sugar, sorbitol, sucrose, fructose, ammoniated glycyrrhizin, propylene glycol.
9. Dyes and colorings are typically added to hide something or make dog food attractive for dog owners. It has no place in dog food. Those with numbers are particularly harmful, like Blue 2, Red 40, Yellow 5 and 6, and other numbered colors.
10. Supplements are a great place for manufacturers to hide things. Menadione in any form, often listed as vitamin K3 or vitamin K supplement. Yeast culture and other useless supplements that are poorly absorbed like sulfates and oxide-based mineral supplements like zinc oxide and iron oxide.

It is always a good idea to check the calorie count per cup of dog food. An easy way to calculate your dog’s daily calorie requirement is to allow 30 calories per pound of your dog’s ideal weight.