What do vets recommend as the best dog food?

Feeding your dog the best food is one of the best things you can do to keep them healthy, active, and happy. With so many dry dog food brands that are putting their products out and saying they are "the best", it may be difficult to know which one to trust.  The good news is that veterinarians have done the research and some high quality foods stand out.  These trusted options balance real, nutritious ingredients with the ease of pouring kibble straight into the bowl. Let's see what vets recommend while deciding the best food for your dog.

Why Dry Dog Food?

Dry dog food (also called kibble) is popular for a few simple reasons:

• It’s convenient to store and serve

• It lasts longer than wet food

• It’s less messy

• It’s usually more affordable for long-term feeding

The challenge, however, is finding a dry dog food that’s not full of low-quality ingredients. You want something that’s easy to serve and packed with nutrients.

What Vets Look for in Good Dog Foods

Vets agree that the best dog foods is made with high-quality ingredients, has clear labeling, and meets your dog’s specific needs. Here’s what they recommend looking for:

1. Talk to Your Vet First

Every dog is different. That’s why your first step should always be asking your veterinarian. They know your dog’s health history and can recommend the right kind of food based on age, breed, weight, and any health concerns.

If your dog has allergies, diabetes, joint problems, or needs to lose weight, your vet can guide you toward food that supports those needs.

2. Check for AAFCO Approval

Always make sure the food meets standards set by the Association of American Feed Control Officials (AAFCO). If the packaging says the food is “complete and balanced,” it means it includes the essential nutrients your dog needs to stay healthy.

This is a basic rule to follow when choosing any dog food in Canada.

3. Choose Based on Life Stage

Dogs need different nutrition depending on their age:

• Puppies need more calories, protein, and nutrients to support their growth

• Adult dogs need balanced nutrition to stay active and strong

• Senior dogs may benefit from extra vitamins to support joints, digestion, and heart health

Look for food that’s made for your dog’s current life stage. It’ll help keep them in their best shape.

4. Size 

The size of the kibble should match the size of your dog. Small breeds need smaller bites so they don’t choke or struggle to chew. Larger dogs need bigger kibble pieces to support proper chewing and digestion.

Also, larger breeds may need different nutrients for joint support, while small breeds may burn energy faster and need more calorie-rich food.

5. Support Special Health Needs

Does your dog have a sensitive stomach? Skin allergies? Extra weight? Bad breath?

Let your vet know about your dog's specific health issue, and many times, they will suggest food that is specifically made for dogs that have certain health problems. Many of these foods usually include added nutrients, better-quality ingredients, and fewer fillers. Examples include:

• For sensitive stomachs: Limited-ingredient or grain-free food

• For allergic reactions: Avoid common allergens like chicken or wheat and choose a fish or lamb-based formula

• For dogs that need to lose weight: Low-fat or weight-control options with added fiber to help them feel full.

6. Stick to Your Budget

High-quality dog food doesn’t always have to break the bank. It’s okay to compare prices—as long as you’re not sacrificing your dog’s health for a cheaper bag.

Remember, dog food is something you’ll buy regularly, so find a good option that fits your budget and offers consistent quality. Changing foods too often can upset your dog’s stomach, so try to stick to one good brand.

What Should You Look for on the Label?

Here’s a quick checklist for choosing a vet-approved dry dog food:

• Real meat is the primary ingredient (ex, chicken, beef, and fish)  

• No ambiguous terms like 'meat meal' or 'animal by-products'  

• Contains healthy fats (ex, fish oil, flaxseed)  

• Contains whole grains or grain-free alternatives (sweet potatoes, lentils)  

• Contains no artificial colours or preservatives  

• Clearly states it meets AAFCO standards

If you can read and understand the ingredients, that’s usually a good sign.

Final Thoughts

Choosing the right food for your dog does not need to be difficult. With guidance from your veterinarian and a little reading of labels, you can find the best food to support your dog's health, energy, and happiness. 

If you're searching for a trustworthy brand that achieves all of those vet-approved benchmarks, Pets Gone Wild has the solution you need. Pets Gone Wild offers excellent quality, grain-free dog foods that are made with real food ingredients your pup will love without the fillers you want to avoid.

Give your dog the best. Visit Pets Gone Wild today and find the food that fits your pet’s needs.