best dog food brands on a budget
Best and worst dog food brands
There are hundreds of dog food options available, from dry to grain-free to raw, but which ones will have your furry friend licking the bowl clean?
We surveyed 2,304 dog owners about the pet food they buy to uncover the brands that customers (and their dogs) love and which offer the best value for money.
See how brands such as Burns, Harringtons and Royal Canin are rated by customers, as well as supermarket options from the likes of Aldi and Lidl.
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Dog food brands rated
Our top-scoring dog food brand achieved an impressive customer score of 82%, and five-star ratings for how much pets liked it, as well as their wellbeing when eating it.
At the other end of the scale, two brands scored less than 60%, with just two stars out of five each for how healthy the dog seemed when eating food from that brand.
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Table notes: Survey of 2,304 Which? Connect members who owned a dog in July 2023. Customer score is based on overall satisfaction with the dog food and how likely people are to recommend it to a friend. n/a means not enough responses to include a star rating.
Make sure your furry friend is covered see our guide to the best pet insurance for your dog
How to choose the best dog food for your pet
Deciphering all the pet nutrition information on the internet can seem like an impossible task. It can range from confusing to completely contradictory.
We spoke to real pet nutrition researchers to understand what actually matters. Good news: it isnt as complicated as it seems.
The most important part of choosing a food is actually monitoring your pet, said Dr Teresa Hollands, senior lecturer in veterinary nutrition at the University of Surrey. If you're feeding your pet a particular brand of food, and they have plenty of energy and seem well in themselves, then you are on the right track.
Dr Nigel Kendall, lecturer in nutrition at the University of Nottingham, agreed: If your pet is on completely the wrong diet, then there will be physical signs.
Signs that your pet is eating a nutritious diet, and the right food for their needs, include:
- good overall health
- plenty of energy
- good sleeping habits
- regularly passing firm stools
- maintaining a healthy weight.
Also a cat owner? See our guide to thebest and worst cat food brands
How to feed your dog the best and healthiest diet
As well as choosing the right food, you can also maximise the nutritional value of your pets diet by feeding them in the right way.
We spoke with Dr David Gardner, professor of physiology at the University of Nottingham, to find out more:
Choosing a complete food
Start by making sure you are feeding your pet a complete food, he said. Thats really important, but it isnt always clearly labelled.
Complete foods are designed to give your pet all the nutrients they need, so you can feed them the same thing every day without causing a nutritional imbalance or deficit.
Weighing your pet food
David also highlighted the importance of weighing your pets food every time you feed them.
Remember, you may not notice that you're overfeeding your pet if you increase the size of their feed very slightly each day.
Varying your pet food
If you want to take additional steps to ensure your pet is getting the best nutrition, David also suggested varying the food you give them, provided that this doesnt upset their stomach.
These changes could be as small as varying the flavour of food that you give to your pet.
If you buy a bag of lamb dog food one month, try the chicken next time, David suggested.
If you do want to try changing the type or brand of your pet food, remember to do so gradually. Your pet's meal should be no more than 25% new food for the first couple of days, increasing over the course of a week.
Dogs can be fussy, so know that varying your pet food is not essential. The main thing is that they eat and enjoy their food and that it's nutritionally complete.
Best dog harnesses see our pick of the best and worst as tested by dog owners
Is wet or dry dog food better?
Both wet and dry foods can be nutritionally complete, meaning that they should contain all the nutrients your pet needs. That means there is no significant advantage to either food type.
David recommended feeding your pet a mixture of wet and dry food.
Evidence suggests that there are slight differences in the nutritional composition of wet and dry food. That means you are going to cover more nutrients if you mix them together.
If you want to feed your dog exclusively one type of food, then wet food does tend to be more appealing. However, it is often more expensive and it can predispose pets to dental disease.
In contrast, dry food is beneficial to dogs teeth and gums, and it is usually easier and cheaper to use and store. Just make sure that your dog has access to plenty of fresh water, as they will not be getting hydration from their food.
Best food and drinkwe've rated the tastiest food for humans too. Discover our top picks, from chicken soup to red wine
Can dogs be vegan?
Yes, provided you are careful about the type of food you give them.
There are commercial dog foods available that are vegetarian or vegan and nutritionally complete.
Some people may want to prepare homemade vegetarian or vegan meals for their dog, which is not typically recommended by experts.
This is because evidence suggests that homemade food (including meat-based diets) is typically not nutritionally complete even when people follow recipes labelled as such.
Is raw food good for dogs?
Raw pet food has become more popular over the past few years, especially for dogs, but experts don't generally recommend it.
I would not recommend a raw food diet due to the risk to human health, says Dr Heather Bacon, dean of veterinary medicine at the University of Central Lancashire.
Bacteria present in raw meat can include salmonella, listeria, campylobacter and E-coli. These cause significant illness in humans and animals, particularly young, old and immune-compromised individuals.
These can be spread around the house during food preparation and eating. They can also be passed from animals to humans if your pet kisses your face after eating.
All of these bacteria are destroyed when meat is correctly cooked.
How much should my dog weigh?
According to a 2022 survey by UK Pet Food, 50% of dogs (and 43% of cats) are overweight or obese.
Your pet being overweight can have a huge impact on its quality of life, including limiting their ability to exercise or sleep properly. According to the RSPCA, it also predisposes them to illness including:
- diabetes
- heart disease
- cancer.
How to if tell your dog is overweight
Dr Teresa Hollands recommends an easy method for checking your pets weight.
Create a fist with your hand, and feel your knuckles with your fingers, she said. If your pets ribs feel like that, they are underweight.
Then lay your hand flat, and feel your knuckles again. If their ribs feel like that, they are the perfect weight.
Finally, keep your hand flat, turn your hand over, and run your fingers over the pads on your palm at the base of your fingers. If their ribs feel like that, they are overweight.
Physical signs that your dog is overweight
- Very thin(more than 20% below ideal body weight) Ribs, spine and hip bones easily seen (in short-haired pets), obvious loss of muscle bulk, no fat can be felt under the skin.
- Underweight (10-20% below ideal body weight)Ribs, spine and hip bones easily seen, obvious waist and abdominal tuck, very little fat can be felt under the skin.
- IdealRibs, spine and hip bones easily felt, visible waist and abdominal tuck, small amount of fat can be felt.
- Overweight(10-15% above ideal body weight): Ribs, spine and hip bones are hard to feel, waist barely visible, broad back, layer of fat on belly and at base of tail.
- Obese (more than 15% above ideal body weight)Ribs, spine and hip bones extremely difficult to feel under a thick layer of fat, no waist can be seen and belly may droop significantly, heavy fat pads on lower back and at base of the tail.
How we rated dog food brands
To uncover the best and worst dog food brands, in July 2023 we surveyed 2,304 Which? members who had bought dog food recently, and asked all about their experiences with their chosen brand.
We asked them to rate the brand on various attributes including value for money, how their dog responded to the food, and its perceived wellbeing on the food.
Overall customer scores are based on how satisfied customers were with the brand overall and whether or not they would recommend it.
Discover the best head torches for taking your dog for a walk in the dark
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The Best Budget-Friendly Dog Foods: 11 Affordable, Nutritious Eats!
We all want to give our dogs the best, but few among us have unlimited funds.
As circumstances will have it, many of us consider switching to a lower-priced, budget-friendly dog food when times are tight, and we need to save a bit of money.
This is a completely acceptable strategy for redirecting your funds, but its important that you dont compromise your dogs health in the process. You still need a good dog food thats full of healthy ingredients, like real chicken, beef, or fish, as well as healthy carbohydrates!
Below, well recommend some great budget-friendly dog foods while also exploring which high-quality dog food perks can be sacrificed safely when you need a budget dog food option.
Most Affordable Dog Food for Diarrhea
Best Premium Budget-Friendly Dog Food
Most Affordable Budget-Friendly Dog Food
The 11 Best Budget Dog Foods: AffordableFeeding
Below are foods that are affordably priced yet still have enough nutritional value to make them worthwhile dietary staples. Try to select the best one for your pup and his needs when making your final selection.
1. Diamond Naturals All Life Stages Chicken & Rice
Best Overall Budget-Friendly Dog Food
About:Diamond Naturals All Life Stages Chicken & Rice is a high-quality dry dog food that wont break the bank. Made without corn and wheat, this grain-inclusive kibble is formulated to contain all of the healthy ingredients youd want while keeping outthe stuff youd rather not feed your dog, like artificial flavors, color, and preservatives.
Features:
- Cage-free chicken is the first ingredient
- Contains real fruits and vegetables for natural fiber and nutrients
- Includes proprietary probiotic blend to help support digestive health.
- Made in the USA
Options: Available in 13 recipes and formulas, including Chicken & Rice, Lamb & Rice, and Beef Meal & Rice.
Ingredients List
Chicken, Chicken Meal, Whole Grain Brown Rice, Cracked Pearled Barley, White Rice...,
Dried Yeast, Chicken Fat (Preserved With Mixed Tocopherols), Egg Product, Grain Sorghum, Dried Beet Pulp, Natural Flavor, Flaxseed, Salmon Oil (Source Of DHA), Potassium Chloride, Salt, Dl-Methionine, Choline Chloride, Dried Chicory Root, Kale, Chia Seed, Pumpkin, Blueberries, Oranges, Quinoa, Dried Kelp, Coconut, Spinach, Carrots, Papaya, Yucca Schidigera Extract, Dried Lactobacillus Plantarum Fermentation Product, Dried Bacillus Subtilis Fermentation Product, Dried Lactobacillus Acidophilus Fermentation Product, Dried Enterococcus Faecium Fermentation Product, Dried Bifidobacterium Animalis Fermentation Product, Vitamin E Supplement, Beta Carotene, Iron Proteinate, Zinc Proteinate, Copper Proteinate, Ferrous Sulfate, Zinc Sulfate, Manganese Sulfate, Copper Sulfate, Potassium Iodide, Thiamine Mononitrate, Manganese Proteinate, Ascorbic Acid, Vitamin A Supplement, Biotin, Niacin, Calcium Pantothenate, Sodium Selenite, Pyridoxine Hydrochloride, Vitamin B12 Supplement, Riboflavin, Vitamin D3 Supplement, Folic Acid. Contains A Source Of Live (Viable), Naturally Occurring Microorganisms.
Pros
- Great bang for your buck with extras like probiotics
- Good selection of formulas for different life stages and needs
- Protein is always at the top of the ingredient list
Cons
- Picky eaters may need enticing to give it a try
- No exotic protein options
2. Natures Recipe Adult Lamb, Barley & Brown Rice
Runner-Up Best Overall Budget-Friendly Dog Food
About: Offer up some tasty grub that wont blow a big hole in your wallet with Natures Recipe Adult Lamb, Barley & Brown Rice. Made without artificial colors, preservatives, or flavors, this budget-friendly kibble is grain-inclusive for satiety and healthy digestion.
Features:
- Real meat is the first ingredient
- Made without corn, wheat, soy, or poultry by-products
- Contains a balanced blend of omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids for skin and coat health
- Made in the USA
Options: Available in Lamb, Barley & Brown Rice and Chicken, Barley & Brown Rice.
Ingredients List
Lamb, Chicken Meal, Brewers Rice, Barley, Oatmeal...,
Canola Meal, Rice Bran, Poultry Fat (preserved With Mixed Tocopherols), Brown Rice, Turkey Meal, Natural Flavor, Salt, Flaxseed, Potassium Chloride, Taurine, Dl-methionine, Vitamin E Supplement, Niacin, Ascorbic Acid (source Of Vitamin C), Thiamine Mononitrate, Pantothenic Acid, Vitamin A Supplement, Riboflavin Supplement, Pyridoxine Hydrochloride, Folic Acid, Biotin, Vitamin B12 Supplement, Vitamin D3 Supplement, Ferrous Sulfate, Zinc Sulfate, Copper Sulfate, Sodium Selenite, Manganese Sulfate, Calcium Iodate), Choline Chloride, Brewers Dried Yeast, Lactic Acid, Citric Acid (used As A Preservative), Yucca Schidigera Extract, Rosemary Extract
Pros
- Offers solid nutrition at a decent price
- Taste is a hit for most pups
- Kibble size and shape work great for pups big and small
Cons
- Mixed protein nature can be a problem for dogs with sensitivities
- Limited proteins to choose from
3. Blue Buffalo Life Protection Formula
Best Premium Budget-Friendly Dog Food
About:Blue Buffalos Life Protection Formula is slightly more expensive than others on our list, but it provides a fair amount of perks. Its made with some of the best ingredients available to help give your dog the healthiest diet possible.
Features:
- Real meat is always the first listed ingredient
- Made with antioxidant-rich fruits and vegetables for improved health and well-being
- Supplemented with vitamins, minerals, and probiotics to avoid deficiencies and promote healthy digestion
- Made in the USA under strict quality control standards and regulations
Options: Offered in 21 recipes and formulas, including Adult Chicken & Brown Rice, Adult Fish & Brown Rice, and Puppy Lamb & Oatmeal.
Ingredients List
Deboned Chicken, Chicken Meal, Brown Rice, Barley, Oatmeal...,
Pea Starch, Flaxseed (source of Omega 3 and 6 Fatty Acids), Chicken Fat (preserved with Mixed Tocopherols), Dried Tomato Pomace, Natural Flavor, Peas, Pea Protein, Salt, Potassium Chloride, Dehydrated Alfalfa Meal, Potatoes, Dried Chicory Root, Pea Fiber, Alfalfa Nutrient Concentrate, Calcium Carbonate, Choline Chloride, DL-Methionine, Preserved with Mixed Tocopherols, Dicalcium Phosphate, Sweet Potatoes, Carrots, Garlic, Zinc Amino Acid Chelate, Zinc Sulfate, Vegetable Juice for color, Ferrous Sulfate, Vitamin E Supplement, Iron Amino Acid Chelate, Blueberries, Cranberries, Barley Grass, Parsley, Turmeric, Dried Kelp, Yucca Schidigera Extract, Niacin (Vitamin B3), Glucosamine Hydrochloride, Calcium Pantothenate (Vitamin B5), Copper Sulfate, Biotin (Vitamin B7), L-Ascorbyl-2-Polyphosphate (source of Vitamin C), L-Lysine, L-Carnitine, Vitamin A Supplement, Copper Amino Acid Chelate, Manganese Sulfate, Taurine, Manganese Amino Acid Chelate, Thiamine Mononitrate (Vitamin B1), Riboflavin (Vitamin B2), Vitamin D3 Supplement, Vitamin B12 Supplement, Pyridoxine Hydrochloride (Vitamin B6), Calcium Iodate, Dried Yeast, Dried Enterococcus faecium fermentation product, Dried Lactobacillus acidophilus fermentation product, Dried Aspergillus niger fermentation extract, Dried Trichoderma longibrachiatum fermentation extract, Dried Bacillus subtilis fermentation extract, Folic Acid (Vitamin B9), Sodium Selenite, Oil of Rosemary.
Pros
- Packed with quality natural ingredients at a lower price than some specialty brands
- Contains a good mix of extras like probiotics and antioxidant-rich LifeSource Bits
- Wide variety of recipes and formulas to choose from
Cons
- Not as affordable as other kibbles
- Some dogs refuse to eat the LifeSource Bits
4. Purina ONE SmartBlend Tender Cuts in Gravy
Best Budget-Friendly Wet Dog Food
About: Purina ONE SmartBlend Tender Cuts in Gravy offer a meaty mix of protein, vegetables, and grain you can see. This is a wet dog food with a savory broth that provides extra hydration and easily spreads over food as a meal topper to kibble.
Features:
- Made with real meat and organs
- Packed in 13-ounce cans
- Can be served on its own or with kibble
- Made in the USA
Options: Offered in Beef & Barley and Chicken & Brown Rice. A variety pack of the two is also available.
Ingredients List
Beef And Chicken Broth, Beef, Liver, Wheat Gluten, Chicken...,
Pork Lungs, Carrots, Barley, Soy Flour, Dried Egg Product, Dried Spinach, Potassium Chloride, Tricalcium Phosphate, Zinc Sulfate, Ferrous Sulfate, Copper Sulfate, Manganese Sulfate, Potassium Iodide, Sodium Selenite), Guar Gum, Caramel Color, Locust Bean Gum, Choline, Vitamin E, Vitamin B-3, Vitamin B-1, Vitamin B-5, Vitamin B-6, Vitamin B-12, Vitamin B-2, Vitamin A, Folic Acid, Vitamin D-3, Vitamin B-7
Pros
- Offers a nutritious, focused list of ingredients for less
- Contains nutrient-rich organ meat
- Most pups give the taste a paws up
Cons
- Mixed protein recipe isnt a good fit for every dog
- Some dogs arent a fan of the texture (stew rather than pate-style wet food)
- A wet dog food will almost always cost more than a dry food
Many dogs prefer the soft texture of wet dog food, but wet foods are generally more expensive than comparable dry foods. But there are at least 10 different ways you can soften dry dog food, which will give you the best of both worlds!
5. Diamond Naturals Skin & Coat
Best Budget-Friendly Dog Food for Sensitive Skin
About: Diamond Naturals Skin & Coats fatty acid-rich recipe is made specifically for pups with skin and coat issues, deriving its mix of omegas from fish, flaxseed, and more. Made with real produce like blueberries, spinach, and papaya, its also a good source of antioxidants to support your sniffers immune system.
Features:
Options: Available in a single salmon-based recipe.
Ingredients List
Salmon, Fish Meal, Potatoes, Lentils, Peas...,
Pea Flour, Canola Oil (Preserved With Mixed Tocopherols), Dried Yeast, Tomato Pomace, Natural Flavor, Flaxseed, Dicalcium Phosphate, Salt, Potassium Chloride, Dl-Methionine, Choline Chloride, Taurine, Dried Chicory Root, L-Carnitine, Kale, Chia Seed, Pumpkin, Blueberries, Oranges, Dried Kelp, Coconut, Spinach, Carrots, Papaya, Dried Lactobacillus Plantarum Fermentation Product, Dried Bacillus Subtilis Fermentation Product, Dried Lactobacillus Acidophilus Fermentation Product, Dried Enterococcus Faecium Fermentation Product, Dried Bifidobacterium Animalis Fermentation Product, Vitamin E Supplement, Iron Proteinate, Zinc Proteinate, Copper Proteinate, Ferrous Sulfate, Zinc Sulfate, Manganese Sulfate, Copper Sulfate, Potassium Iodide, Thiamine Mononitrate, Manganese Proteinate, Ascorbic Acid, Vitamin A Supplement, Biotin, Niacin, Calcium Pantothenate, Sodium Selenite, Pyridoxine Hydrochloride, Vitamin B12 Supplement, Riboflavin, Vitamin D3 Supplement, Folic Acid. Contains A Source Of Live (Viable), Naturally Occurring Microorganisms. The Facility In Which This Food Is Made Also Makes Food That May Contain Other Ingredients.
Pros
- Rich in fatty acids for healthy skin and a shiny coat
- Suitable for all life stages, making is a solid pick for multi-dog families
- Probiotics are great for dogs with sensitive stomachs
Cons
- Only offered in salmon
- Some dogs arent a fan of the flavor
6. Purina Beyond Chicken and Barley Dog Food
Best Budget-Friendly Limited Ingredient Diet
About:Purina Beyond Natural Chicken and Barley is made with all of the good things youd want for your dog, with very few of the things you wouldnt want. Youll love the limited ingredient list (which can help dogs with food allergies or sensitive stomachs) and lower price point, while your dog will love the delicious taste.
Features:
- Farm-raised, steroid-free chicken is the first listed ingredient
- Contains no chicken by-products, corn, wheat, or soy
- No artificial colors, dyes, flavors, or preservatives which may trigger food allergies
- Made in the USA
Options: Available in Chicken & Barley and a grain-free Chicken & Egg.
Ingredients List
Chicken, Rice, Whole Barley, Canola Meal, Chicken Meal...,
Whole Oat Meal, Beef Fat Preserved With Mixed-Tocopherols, Natural Flavor, Sunflower Oil, Salt, Calcium Carbonate, Potassium Chloride, Vitamin E Supplement, Niacin (Vitamin B-3), Vitamin A Supplement, Calcium Pantothenate (Vitamin B-5), Thiamine Mononitrate (Vitamin B-1), Vitamin B-12 Supplement, Riboflavin Supplement (Vitamin B-2), Pyridoxine Hydrochloride (Vitamin B-6), Folic Acid (Vitamin B-9), Menadione Sodium Bisulfite Complex (Vitamin K), Vitamin D-3 Supplement, Biotin (Vitamin B-7), Zinc Sulfate, Ferrous Sulfate, Manganese Sulfate, Copper Sulfate, Calcium Iodate, Sodium Selenite, Choline Chloride, Dried Bacillus Coagulans Fermentation Product.
Pros
- Quality limited-ingredient option thats great for dogs with food allergies
- Good source of glucosamine
- Kibble size and shape great for dogs of all sizes
Cons
- Bag sizes run small (the largest is only 24 pounds)
- Not every dog tolerates chicken
7. Purina ONE +Plus Vibrant Maturity
Best Budget-Friendly Dog Food for Seniors
About: Support your pup as he ages with Purina ONE +Plus Vibrant Maturity, a kibble with glucosamine for joint support and antioxidants for immune health. The crunchy texture helps keep his teeth strong between cleanings, while the kibblet size works well for dogs of all sizes.
Features:
- Real chicken is the first ingredient
- Meets AAFCO standards for adult dog maintenance
- Rich in fatty acids for skin support and a healthy coat
- Made in the USA
Options: Offered in a single chicken-based recipe.
Ingredients List
Chicken, Rice Flour, Corn Gluten Meal, Chicken By-Product Meal, Soybean Meal...,
Whole Grain Corn, Corn Germ Meal, Oat Meal, Vegetable Oil (Source of Medium-Chain Triglycerides), Whole Grain Wheat, Fish Meal (Source of Glucosamine), Pea Fiber, Poultry and Pork Digest, Beef Fat Naturally Preserved with Mixed-Tocopherols, Glycerin, Calcium Carbonate, Salt, Dried Egg Product, Mono and Dicalcium Phosphate, Caramel Color, Potassium Chloride, Dried Carrots, Dried Peas, Vitamin E Supplement, Niacin (Vitamin B-3), Vitamin A Supplement, Calcium Pantothenate (Vitamin B-5), Thiamine Mononitrate (Vitamin B-1), Vitamin B-12 Supplement, Riboflavin Supplement (Vitamin B-2), Pyridoxine Hydrochloride (Vitamin B-6), Folic Acid (Vitamin B-9), Vitamin D-3 Supplement, Menadione Sodium Bisulfite Complex (Vitamin K), Biotin (Vitamin B-7), Choline Chloride, Zinc Sulfate, Ferrous Sulfate, Manganese Sulfate, Copper Sulfate, Calcium Iodate, Sodium Selenite), L-Lysine Monohydrochloride, L-Ascorbyl-2-Polyphosphate (Vitamin C), Sulfur, Garlic Oil
Pros
- Senior-focused nutrition at an affordable price
- Flavor is a win with most dogs
- Pet parents report the food is easy to chew for most seniors
Cons
- Corn isnt everyones favorite ingredient (though nutritionally, its sound)
- Not every dog can tolerate chicken
8.4health Puppy Formula with Wholesome Grains
About: 4health Puppy Formula with Wholesome Grains helps your barkin buddy sprout into his best adult self at an affordable pricing using quality protein, fresh produce, and grains like rice, barley, and quinoa. Also featuring flaxseed and salmon oil, its a great source of fatty acids for skin and coat health, including DHA for brain and vision development in puppies.
Features:
- Real meat is the top ingredient
- Contains a probiotic blend for gut health
- Meets AAFCO standards for all life stages, including the growth of large-breed puppies
- Made in the USA
Options: Available in Lamb with Wholesome Grains, Grain Free Puppy, and Large Breed Puppy.
Ingredients List
Lamb, Lamb Meal, Whole Grain Brown Rice, Cracked Pearled Barley, Ground White Rice, ...,
Dried Yeast, Chicken Fat (Preserved with Mixed Tocopherols), Egg Product, Fish Meal, Tomato Pomace, Flaxseed, Natural Flavor, Salmon Oil, Salt, DL-Methionine, Potassium Chloride, Choline Chloride, Taurine, Dried Chicory Root, L-Carnitine, Kale, Chia Seed, pumpkin, Blueberries, Oranges, Quinoa, Dried Kelp, Coconut, Spinach, Carrots, Papaya, Yucca schidigera Extract, Dried Lactobacillus plantarum Fermentation Product, Dried Bacillus subtilis Fermentation Product, Dried Lactobacillus acidophilus Fermentation Product, Dried Enterococcus faecium Fermentation Product, Dried Bifidobacterium animalis Fermentation Product, Vitamin E Supplement, Beta Carotene, Iron Proteinate, Zinc Proteinate, Copper Proteinate, Ferrous Sulfate, Zinc Sulfate, Manganese Sulfate, Copper Sulfate, Potassium Iodide, Thiamine Mononitrate, Manganese Proteinate, Ascorbic Acid, Vitamin A Supplement, Biotin, Niacin, Calcium Pantothenate, Sodium Selenite, Pyridoxine Hydrochloride, Vitamin B12 Supplement, Riboflavin, Vitamin D3 Supplement, Folic Acid
Pros
- Affordably priced for the quality
- Meets AAFCO standards for all life stages, including puppies who will be over 70 pounds in adulthood
- Contains perks like probiotics and prebiotics
Cons
- Mixed proteins may be an issue for dogs with food sensitivities
- Some pups may need enticing to give it a try
9. Rachael Ray Nutrish Zero Grain
Best Budget-Friendly Grain-Free Dog Food
Features:
- Real meat is the first ingredient
- Grain, gluten, and filler-free recipe ensures your dogs calories come from nutritious ingredients
- Contains no artificial dyes, colors, flavors, or preservatives
- Made in the USA
Options: Available in Turkey & Potato, Beef, Potato & Bison, Chicken & Sweet Potato, and Salmon & Sweet Potato.
Ingredients List
Chicken, Chicken Meal, Sweet Potatoes, Dried Peas, Whole Dried Potatoes...,
Pea Protein, Pea Starch, Tapioca, Dried Plain Beet Pulp, Whole Flaxseed, Chicken Fat (Preserved with Mixed Tocopherols), Natural Flavor, Fish Meal, Salt, Dicalcium Phosphate, Turkey Meal, Dried Cranberries, Zinc Proteinate, Vitamin E Supplement, Iron Proteinate, L-ascorbyl-2-polyphosphate (Source of Vitamin C), Choline Chloride, Copper Proteinate, Manganese Proteinate, Biotin, Niacin, D-calcium Pantothenate, Sodium Selenite, Vitamin A Supplement, Riboflavin Supplement, Thiamine Mononitrate, Vitamin B12 Supplement, Calcium Iodate, Pyridoxine Hydrochloride, Vitamin D3 Supplement, Folic Acid
Pros
- Affordable pick for dogs needing a grain-free diet
- Made without artificial dyes and additives that may trigger food allergies
- Taste won woofin good reviews from doggos
Cons
- Mixed protein nature isnt ideal for dogs with sensitivities
- Lacks a bounty of fruits and veggies seen in other grain-free offerings
10. Nutro Max Mini Chunks
Best Budget-Friendly Dog Food for Small Dogs
About: Fill your little barkers bowl without draining your wallet with Nutro Max Mini Chunks, a small-dog-focused food featuring tiny kibblets for easy eating. Made with lean protein for muscle health and healthy grains for digestion, its a balanced dry food for adult dogs.
Features:
- Vitamin and mineral blend support your pups immune system
- Good source of fatty acids for skin and coat health
- Doesnt contain poultry by-products, corn, wheat, or soy protein
- Made in the USA with non-GMO ingredients
Options: Available in a single chicken-based recipe.
Ingredients List
Chicken Meal, Whole Grain Sorghum, Brewers Rice, Whole Grain Barley, Chicken...,
Split Peas, Chicken Fat (preserved with Mixed Tocopherols), Dried Plain Beet Pulp, Natural Flavor, Whole Flaxseed, Salt, Potassium Chloride, Choline Chloride, DL-Methionine, Citric Acid (preservative), Mixed Tocopherols (preservative), Vitamin E Supplement, L-ascorbyl-2-polyphosphate (source of Vitamin C), Ferrous Sulfate, Zinc Oxide, Sodium Selenite, D-Calcium Pantothenate, Biotin, Manganese Sulfate, Copper Sulfate, Thiamine Mononitrate (Vitamin B1), Vitamin B12 Supplement, Vitamin A Supplement, Niacin Supplement, Riboflavin Supplement (Vitamin B2), Pyridoxine Hydrochloride (Vitamin B6), Vitamin D3 Supplement, Potassium Iodide, Manganous Oxide, Folic Acid, Rosemary Extract
Pros
- Affordable food designed specifically for small breeds
- Small kibble size perfect for petite pups
- Flavor is a tail-wagger for most dogs
Cons
- While chicken meal is an excellent source of protein, some prefer a whole protein at the top of the ingredient list
- Chicken is the only protein option
11. Iams Proactive Health
Most Affordable Budget-Friendly Dog Food
About: While Iams isnt often classified as high-quality dog food, its extremely affordable and offers a fairly decent ingredient list. Flaxseed provides omega fatty acids for skin and coat health, while natural fiber supports digestion.
Features:
- Lamb is the first listed ingredient to ensure your meat eater gets the nutrition he deserves
- Mix of carbohydrates provides energy and satiety
- Doesnt have any artificial preservatives or flavor
- Made in the USA
Options: Offered in Lamb & Rice and Chicken & Whole Grains.
Ingredients List
Lamb, Chicken By-Product Meal, Brewers Rice, Ground Whole Grain Barley, Ground Whole Grain Corn...,
Ground Whole Grain Sorghum, Chicken Fat (preserved with mixed Tocopherols), Corn Gluten Meal, Chicken Meal, Dried Beet Pulp, Natural Flavor, Brewers Dried Yeast, Dried Egg Product, Caramel Color, Potassium Chloride, Carrots, Flaxseed, Choline Chloride, L-Lysine Monohydrochloride, Fructooligosaccharides, Calcium Carbonate, L-Tryptophan, Vitamin E Supplement, Ferrous Sulfate, L-Carnitine, Mixed Tocopherols (a preservative), Zinc Oxide, Ascorbic Acid, Sodium Selenite, Calcium Pantothenate, Biotin, Manganese Sulfate, Copper Sulfate, Thiamine Mononitrate (source of vitamin B1), Vitamin B-12 Supplement, Vitamin A Acetate, Niacin Supplement, Riboflavin Supplement (source of vitamin B2), Inositol, Pyridoxine Hydrochloride (source of vitamin B6), Vitamin D3 Supplement, Rosemary Extract, Manganous Oxide, Folic Acid, Potassium Iodide.
Pros
- One of the most affordable, quality foods available
- Real meat is the first ingredient
- All proteins are properly labels
Cons
- Contains controversial ingredients, like whole-grain corn and chicken by-product meal
- Limited protein options, all of which include chicken
You dont want to feed your dog a homemade diet over the long term unless you solicit the assistance of a veterinary nutritionist nutritional imbalances are all but guaranteed.
However, if youre really in a pinch and need to keep your dog fed until payday, there are a few things you can feed your dog if you run out of food.
A simple meal of cooked chicken and rice will fill your dogs belly, and you could also throw in some frozen peas or carrots. You could also use cooked beef, pork, or fish as a source of protein, while potatoes or sweet potatoes would also work as a carbohydrate.
Again, you dont want to do this for long (plus, itll end up costing more than kibble will).
But it can work in a pinch. Just be sure that you stick to foods you can safely share with your dog.
Characteristics of a Good Dog Food
While your desire to save money on dog food is perfectly understandable, it is still imperative that you provide your dog with high-quality food.
That means keeping the following concepts and guidelines in mind when picking one of the most affordable dog foods:
- Only purchase dog foods made in the USA, Canada, Western Europe, Australia, or New Zealand. Foods made in these countries are subject to much stricter safety standards than foods made in developing nations. Pet food from countries like China may contain harmful ingredients and are less likely to be the subject of recalls, putting pups at risk.
- Avoid dog foods that contain artificial colors, flavors, or other additives. Good dog foods will appeal to your dog without these unnecessary and potentially harmful ingredients. Some dogs, for example, suffer from food allergies courtesy of the artificial dyes in their food.
- Good dog foods are meat-based recipes that list a whole source of protein first. For example, rather than chicken meal, good foods list whole chicken as their first ingredient. Chicken meal and other labeled meat meals are great sources of protein, but its always best to stick to whole proteins whenever possible.
- Good dog foods do not contain unidentified or vaguely characterized meat meals or by-products. While many owners often eschew meat meals and byproducts, these items can be valuable additions to good dog food. The important thing is that they are labeled correctly. For example, chicken meal is a perfectly acceptable ingredient; poultry meal is not.
- Good dog foods include a variety of fruits and vegetables. These items help supply carbohydrates, additional proteins, and a broad array of vitamins and minerals to your dog. Many improve a foods taste, too, in addition to providing natural fiber for digestion. Colorful fruits tomatoes, blueberries, and carrots are particularly valuable, as they are typically packed with antioxidants.
- Good dog foods address any specific health concerns your dog has. Youll always want to keep your dogs specific health issues in mind when selecting a food even if youre trying to save money while doing so. For example, dogs with sensitive stomachs may need foods containing probiotics or limited ingredient lists, while dogs with dental issues may need a wet dog food.
You should always select a dog food in conjunction with your vet. Or at the very least, get your vet to sign off on your choice.
Your vet can not only help you make a good, informed choice, but he or she can also answer any questions you may have about your dogs nutritional requirements.
Where Do You Compromise For Budget-Friendly Dog Food?
If manufacturers could make a premium dog food for a low price, theyd already be doing so. But, high-quality ingredients cost more money than lower quality ingredients do; so, budget-priced dog foods almost invariably cut corners while crafting their recipes.
The trick is to distinguish those that make acceptable compromises to reduce the cost of the food and which ones do not.
Some of the acceptable compromises are discussed below.
Grains
Grain-free dog foods are have become quite popular in recent years among owners, and they are likely superior choices to those packed with wheat and corn.
But unless your dog is specifically allergic to a given grain, you may want to consider a food that contains grains to save money.
Plus, with news of the FDA identifying a correlation between grain-free foods and DCM (Canine dilated cardiomyopathy), grain-free dog food has fallen out of favor and may not even be the best choice for your dog.
While grain-inclusive dog foods are now more widely-recommended, youll still want to be sure that a real protein is still the first listed ingredient.
Youll also always want to opt for foods with whole grains rather than processed grains. Whole grains contain more fiber and fewer calories per pound relative to their processed counterparts.
You should also be aware that different grains have varying nutritional values. Certain grains are better for your pup than others.
Healthier grains include:
- Brown rice
- Oatmeal
- Barley
On the other hand, lesser quality grains should be avoided, such as:
Probiotics
An increasing number of premium dog foods are including probiotic ingredients.
These are thought to help improve digestion, regulate your pups colon, and reduce the number of harmful bacteria living in your dogs digestive tract.
They are especially helpful for breeds that have known digestive issues, such as dachshunds and German shepherds, but they may be helpful for just about any breed or combination thereof.
However, like all other ingredients, canine probiotics cost money.
This means that most budget-priced brands forego them to keep their costs low. But while they are important and helpful when included in a dog food recipe, their absence does not disqualify a food from consideration.
If you like, you can mix in a small amount of non-sweetened dog-safe yogurt with your dogs food (just be sure that your dog tolerates yogurt before doing so as a matter of practice).
Some yogurts are full of probiotic bacteria, and this may prove to be a more economical way of fostering healthy gut flora for your dog.
Meat Meals and By-Products
Meat meals and meat by-products are often avoided by dog owners, as the methods used to make these products are often less than appetizing.
However, these ingredients often represent a safe, easy, and cost-effective method for raising the protein content of a food.
The important thing to remember is that there is a world of difference between chicken meal (for example) and meat meal.
Chicken meal will consist primarily of dehydrated chicken muscle, while meat meal could consist of just about any creature from any source (including a few particularly unsavory sources, such as roadkill or euthanized pets).
By-products are similar, except that they often contain things like innards or feet. While these items may seem gross to humans, they are valuable natural sources of nutrition that many animals consume in the wild.
Omega Fatty Acids, Antioxidants, and Other Supplements
Many modern dog foods are supplemented with ingredients that provide dogs with omega fatty acids, antioxidants, chondroitin, glucosamine, or other valuable items.
Many of these offer a number of positive benefits, but they are also expensive.
Accordingly, it may be wise to select foods that lack these ingredients unless your dog has a specific need for them, such as dry skin or joint problems.
As with probiotics, it may be more cost-effective to supplement your dogs food with fish oil and other substances that contain omega fatty acids.
Similarly, a few blueberries or a tomato slice can provide some antioxidant punch for foods that lack them. A scoop of plain pumpkin adds a dash of fiber, too, aiding in digestive health.
Best Budget-Friendly Dog Foods FAQ
Finding quality dog food within your budget can be overwhelming. Weve tackled the most commonly asked questions around the topic to make things a little easier.
What is the healthiest, most economical dog food?
The healthiest affordable dog food for your pup depends on your dogs unique needs. As long as youre feeding something from a reputable manufacturer that addresses your four-footers individual dietary needs and meets AAFCO standards for his life stage, youre making a great choice.
When browsing individual foods, look for those featuring a whole, high-quality protein as the first ingredient and wholesome digestible carbohydrates like brown rice if your dog tolerates grain. Checking the ingredients also helps you get the most for your money, as many of todays commercial dog foods feature extras like probiotics and omega-3 fatty acids, potentially eliminating supplements you may be using.
Some inexpensive dog foods that are still high quality come from Diamond Naturals, Rachael Ray Nutrish, and Iams, to name a few.
What cheap food can I feed my dog?
Dry kibble provides the most cost savings and a decent shelf life if stored properly. Cheap dog food brands offering kibble include Diamond Naturals, IAMS, Purina One, and Rachael Ray Nutrish. Always check the ingredients, but for the most part, these brands aim for balanced nutrition with natural ingredients without breaking the bank.
What do you feed a dog on a budget?
Shopping on a budget starts with picking the right type of dog food. Dry kibble (dry dog food) is the cheapest form and the best option for pet parents on a budget, as its a shelf-stable product typically fortified with essential vitamins and minerals. Selecting a bigger bag can also offer cost savings in the long run. If youre looking for wet food, look for larger cans to get more bang for your buck, as canned food can be super pricey.
When browsing brands, look for those that offer balanced nutrition with natural ingredients wherever possible, like whole proteins, real produce, and grains. Sticking to those using healthy ingredients costs a little more than the cheapest options, but it can save you money in vet bills, especially if your dog has sensitivities. Some brands also offer extras that could save you on supplements, such as salmon oil, probiotics, and glucosamine.
Cheap dog food brands that still offer excellent nutrition for adult dogs include Diamond Naturals, Purina ONE, and Rachael Ray Nutrish.
Is it OK to feed your dog cheap dog food?
Absolutely. Remember that fed is obviously better than unfed. Dont feel pressured into buying pricey products if theyre not within your budget. In truth, several cheap dog foods offer a balanced diet and contain plenty of nutritious ingredients, such as real chicken and whole grains. The same cant be said of some boutique brands that cost twice as much or more.
As you can see, there are several good choices for keeping your four-footer healthy while working with a limited budget. Any of the above products would make an excellent choice for your dog; just remember to take his specific needs into account before making a choice.
Wed love to hear about the foods youve used when trying to stay under budget. Have you found a good budget-friendly healthy dog food? Did you find a good dry dog food that fits into your budget? Have you tried several inexpensive dog foods and found one you like?
Tell us all about them in the comments below.
