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Despite being popular, grain-free dog foods have earned a controversial reputation in recent years due to concerns that this diet could increase the risk of canine dilated cardiomyopathy (DCM), a fatal heart condition in dogs. With this in mind, we decided to speak to veterinarians and other experts to help narrow down the best grain-free dog food options to keep your pup safe and healthy. With any choice for your dog, first consult your vet.
What to consider when buying grain-free dog food
Why grain-free dog food is controversial
The U.S. Food and Drug Administration launched an investigation into grain-free dog food in 2018. In 2022, the FDA announced they would cease public updates about the link between grain-free dog food and DCM until there was more evidence.
Many licensed veterinarians like Dr. Nell Ostermeier, a spokesperson for Figo Pet Insurance, remain cautious about recommending grain-free dog foods, however. “These diets are pretty controversial in the veterinary world,” she says. At the same time, if a dog struggles with stomach problems or itching constantly, it might benefit from a specialized diet, Ostermeier acknowledges. “There are dogs with true grain allergies or allergies to specific grains and, of course, veterinarians will recommend food without that grain in those cases.”
Ingredients
Before going grain-free, have your dog assessed for grain allergies by your vet. This can typically be accomplished through blood or skin tests or an elimination diet. After an allergy has been established, it’s crucial to choose a formula free of artificial flavors, colors and fillers when shopping for grain-free dog food, advises licensed veterinarian Dr. Bethany Hsia, founder of CodaPet. “Look for high-quality ingredients, such as real meat as the first ingredient,” she adds. Real meat should be present in the largest amount by weight; the best grain-free foods tend to be higher in protein.
Or as Dr. Chyrle Bonk, veterinarian and pet care consultant at Dogster, puts it, “The healthiest food to feed your dog is a food with whole meat listed as at least the first ingredient, preferably the first two ingredients. After that, the remainder of the ingredients should be things you recognize, including whole grains and vegetables.”
When the first ingredient is legumes or pulses — such as beans, peas or lentils — then it’s unlikely that these foods meet your dog’s nutritional needs. In fact, legumes have been linked with lower taurine levels in dogs, an essential amino acid for canine heart health. In contrast, proteins such as fish, shellfish, dark chicken and turkey are rich sources of taurine.
Breed
Breed is also an important consideration. Research reveals that Golden Retrievers are predisposed to taurine deficiencies, while larger breeds such as Doberman pinschers, Great Danes and Irish Wolfhounds, as well as Cocker Spaniels, are at an elevated risk for DCM. In these instances, veterinarians may advise against grain-free formulas.
Price
Price is a significant consideration because experts — including licensed veterinarian Dr. Grant Little, a veterinarian expert at JustAnswer — only recommend grain-free dog foods when pet owners cannot afford prescription-grade food. “If a pet has skin allergies and you can't do prescription food for allergies due to finances, grain-free diets are sometimes the best ‘plan B’,” he explains.
Safety
While the FDA has published a list of the top grain-free dog food brands linked with DCM, along with how many cases they’re aware of, pet owners should always consult with a trained veterinarian before switching foods. Your vet will help you identify grain-free dog food options, including ones that meet the nutritional standards of The Association of American Feed Control Officials (AAFCO) or the global nutrition guidelines of the World Small Animal Veterinary Association (WSAVA), more common outside of the U.S.
Dr. Linda Simon, a U.K.-based veterinary surgeon and writer for Senior Tailwaggers, explains that these organizations don’t directly approve of or endorse certain foods. Instead, they set recommendations for dog food manufacturers to assure consumers that their dog food is safe and nutritional. If brands adhere to them, they can put this on their labels. “Whether grain-free or not, I'd stick to a food that follows AAFCO guidelines,” Simon advises. That said, “Just because it's not stated on their label or website doesn't mean a manufacturer doesn't follow AAFCO guidelines.” So again, it is crucial to check with your veterinarian when changing your dog’s food either way, especially when a specialized diet is involved.
Our top picks for the best grain-free dog food
Best grain-free dog food for a sensitive stomach: Natural Balance Limited Ingredient Reserve Grain-Free Sweet Potato & Venison Recipe
Natural Balance Limited Ingredient Reserve Grain-Free Sweet Potato & Venison Recipe
Regarding dog food for sensitive stomachs, it’s best to look for grain-free dog food with fewer ingredients. Natural Balance offers many limited-ingredient, grain-free blends. Natural Balance also has a customer support number with veterinarian technicians for questions, and it is one of Little’s favorite grain-free options. “They seem to do better with quality control, and they have lots of flavors that can be good options for dogs with food allergies,” he says.
Specifications:
- Best for: Dogs with sensitive stomachs.
- Type: Dry kibble.
- Profile: All life stages.
- Price on publish: $52.98.
What we like:
- Meets AAFCO guidelines.
- Made with deer-sourced venison, an excellent source of protein and vitamins.
- Contains taurine for heart health.
- No corn, wheat, grains, chicken or soy, for dogs with additional sensitivities.
What we don’t like:
- Sweet potatoes are the first ingredient.
- Some dogs continue to have prolonged or worsened stomach problems.
- Complaints of formula changes.
The AP Buyline takeaway:
Dogs with grain allergies that cause digestive distress should stick to dog food formulas with limited ingredients, such as Natural Balance.
Get it here: Natural Balance Limited Ingredient Reserve Grain-Free Sweet Potato & Venison Recipe
Best grain-free wet dog food: Blue Buffalo Freedom Grain-Free Natural Adult Wet Dog Food
Blue Buffalo Freedom Grain Free Natural Adult Dry Dog Food
There tend to be more grain-free options for wet dog food because meat is typically the primary ingredient, not grain. While not all dogs need wet food for adequate nutrition, there are benefits to feeding it to dogs. For one, additional moisture can increase a dog’s water intake, and though it may seem more decadent, wet food can be helpful for overweight dogs because it’s lower in carbs and less dense calorically. On the other hand, it can be less convenient compared to dry food and more expensive.
Hsia suggests Blue Buffalo’s grain-free formula because of their high-quality ingredients. “In addition, it contains no artificial preservatives or flavors,” notes Hsia, who has fed her dogs this formula. “For dogs that prefer wet food, Blue Buffalo is an ideal grain-free option.”
Specifications:
- Best for: Dogs that prefer wet food.
- Type: Wet food.
- Profile: Adult.
- Price on publish: $37.05.
What we like:
- Meets AAFCO guidelines.
- No corn, wheat, grains or soy, and free of artificial colors, flavors and preservatives.
- Meat and other protein sources are listed as primary ingredients.
What we don’t like:
- Does not contain taurine.
- Requires refrigeration after opening.
- Can cause digestive problems if dogs are not acclimated to wet food.
The AP Buyline takeaway:
Wet food can benefit a dog’s health, and Blue Buffalo sources high-quality ingredients for grain-free formulas that support their overall nutrition.
Get it here: Blue Buffalo Freedom Grain-Free Natural Adult Wet Dog Food
Best grain-free dog food for skin allergies: Hill's Science Diet, Grain-Free Dry Dog Food, Adult, Sensitive Stomach & Skin
Hill's Science Diet, Grain Free Dry Dog Food, Adult, Sensitive Stomach & Skin, Chicken & Potato Recipe, 24 lb. Bag
Of all dog food for allergies listed, Little thinks Hill’s Science is good for skin allergies and “probably the best of the ones listed and one of the better bang for your buck.” The company claims to meet or exceed AAFCO standards on its website, and it is known for its research-backed and specialized formulas. “I like just about any product from Science Diet,” Bonk adds. “They're the tried-and-true veterinary-approved diet because they’re effective and often come at a price point that most clients can afford.”
Specifications:
- Best for: Dogs with sensitive skin.
- Type: Dry kibble.
- Profile: Adult.
- Price on publish: $77.89.
What we like:
- Meets AAFCO guidelines.
- Highly recommended by veterinarians.
- Contains taurine for heart health.
What we don’t like:
- Limited flavors and packaging sizes on Amazon.
- Some dogs experienced worsened stomach and skin problems.
- Peas and potatoes are in the top three ingredients.
The AP Buyline takeaway:
Hill's Science Diet grain-free dry dog food is a favorite among veterinarians, but like many specialized formulas, not every dog will react the same way.
Get it here: Hill's Science Diet, Grain-Free Dry Dog Food, Adult, Sensitive Stomach & Skin
Best grain-free dog food for large breeds: Taste of the Wild High Prairie Canine Grain-Free Recipe
Taste of the Wild High Prairie Canine Grain-Free Recipe
The challenge for feeding larger dog breeds is maintaining a diet high in protein but low in fat. When there is a grain allergy, it can be even more difficult to find food to fit a dog’s needs. In these instances, Hsia relies on Taste of the Wild dog food. “Taste of the Wild High Prairie food is suggested for dogs who have sensitivities to grains — or require a grain-free diet due to health issues — but still want a variety of protein sources and nutrient-dense ingredients,” says Hsia, who has also personally used this brand with her pets.
Specifications:
- Best for: Large dog breeds.
- Type: Dry kibble.
- Profile: Adult.
- Price on publish: $38.89.
What we like:
- Meets AAFCO guidelines.
- A great source of protein.
- Contains taurine for heart health.
What we don’t like:
- Some dogs don’t like the flavor.
- Occasional reports of digestive distress.
- Limited flavors and packaging sizes.
The AP Buyline takeaway:
It can be difficult to meet larger dogs’ nutritional needs when they have a grain allergy, but Taste of the Wild’s high-protein formulas can be a good option.
Get it here: Taste of the Wild High Prairie Canine Grain-Free Recipe
Best grain-free senior dog food: Orijen Senior Dry Dog Food, Grain-Free Dry Dog Food for Senior Dogs
ORIJEN Senior Grain-Free Dry Dog Food, 23.5-lb bag
Although Simon often suggests the Pooch & Mutt Senior formula to her patients, the U.K.-based brand is hard to track down in the U.S. Fortunately, Orijen Senior is an adequate substitute for pet owners in the U.S. “These are both brands I have personal experience with and which owners are typically happy with, thanks to their high palatability,” she says. It’s important to note that Orijen Senior has a protein content higher than average. This can be healthy for some dogs, but owners of aging dogs with liver disease or renal failure should opt for a lower protein option, such as Natural Balance, but only after checking with their vets.
Specifications:
- Best for: Senior dogs.
- Type: Dry kibble.
- Profile: Senior.
- Price on publish: $65.83.
What we like:
- Meets AAFCO guidelines.
- Contains chondroitin and glucosamine, as well as omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids for joint health.
- Made with fresh “WholePrey” ingredients, like wild-caught fish and other animal protein.
What we don’t like:
- Does not contain taurine.
- Too much protein for some aging dogs.
- Not budget-friendly.
The AP Buyline takeaway:
Feeding an aging dog with grain allergies can be difficult, but Orijen’s Senior formula can support their changing diets.
Get it here: Orijen Senior Dry Dog Food, Grain-Free Dry Dog Food for Senior Dogs
Best grain-free dog food for small breeds: Nature's Recipe Small Breed Grain-Free Chicken, Sweet Potato & Pumpkin Recipe Dry Dog Food
Nature's Recipe Small Breed Grain-Free Chicken, Sweet Potato & Pumpkin Dry Dog Food, 12-lb
Simon recommends Nature’s Recipe for smaller breeds because it’s a “sensible diet choice with good quality ingredients and reasonable fat and protein contents.” Unlike other brands, such as Orijen, it has a lower protein content, which tends to be better for smaller, less active dogs. The kibble is also smaller and easier for tinier breeds to chew. Finally, Simon notes that at approximately $30 for a 12-pound bag, it is one of the more affordable grain-free options available.
Specifications:
- Best for: Smaller breeds.
- Type: Dry kibble.
- Profile: Adult.
- Price on publish: $29.98.
What we like:
- Meets AAFCO guidelines.
- Contains taurine for heart health.
- Budget-friendly.
What we don’t like:
- Lower protein content may not be sufficient for active small dogs.
- Limited flavors and packaging sizes.
- Some dogs experienced prolonged or worsened digestive distress.
The AP Buyline takeaway:
Smaller dogs need specially formulated kibble, and if they have a grain allergy, Nature’s Recipe is a healthy and affordable option.
Get it here: Nature's Recipe Small Breed Grain-Free Chicken, Sweet Potato & Pumpkin Recipe Dry Dog Food
Best grain-free salmon dog food: Instinct Limited Ingredient Diet Grain-Free Recipe with Real Salmon Natural Dry Dog Food
Instinct Limited Ingredient Diet Grain-Free Recipe with Real Salmon Freeze-Dried Raw Coated Dry Dog Food, 20-lb bag
Sometimes dogs can have allergies to ingredients other than grains, and limited ingredient formulas, like Instinct’s grain-free recipe, can help. “If a dog develops food allergies, it's more commonly attributed to the protein source, mainly chicken, beef or egg,” Bonk explains. “Instinct makes great foods with high-quality ingredients and minimal processing.” But Bonk notes that the high price tag makes the brand less of an option for pet owners on a budget. That said, if your dog is reacting badly to other grain-free blends, switching to the Instinct brand may be the correct “instinct.”
Specifications:
- Best for: Dogs that eat salmon.
- Type: Dry kibble.
- Profile: Adult.
- Price on publish: $80.74.
What we like:
- Meets AAFCO and WSAVA guidelines.
- Corn-, wheat-, soy-, grain- and potato-free for dogs with specific allergies.
- Free of artificial colors and preservatives.
- Egg-, dairy-, chicken- and beef-free, for any additional sensitivities.
What we don’t like:
- Not budget-friendly.
- Does not contain taurine.
- Some dogs experience stomach problems, such as vomiting.
The AP Buyline takeaway:
When determining what your dog is allergic to, salmon-based grain-free options like Instinct’s Limited Ingredient dog food, might help pet owners and vets get answers.
Get it here: g Food
Best affordable grain-free dog food: Purina ONE Grain-Free Natural High Protein Dry Dog Food Formula True Instinct with Real Beef with Added Vitamins, Minerals and Nutrients
Purina ONE Natural True Instinct Grain-Free with Real Beef Dry Dog Food, 12.5-lb bag
The options are often limited when it comes to safe and affordable grain-free dog food. However, Purina ONE offers a high-protein, grain-free option. “It has quality ingredients and is affordable,” Bonk says. “Most dogs do well with it.” The potential issue with prioritizing cost is that your dog may have other allergies besides grains, which could be why some consumers report that their dogs developed skin rashes and stomach problems after switching to this food. Remember, pet owners should always talk to their veterinarian first before switching foods.
Specifications:
- Best for: Dog owners on a budget.
- Type: Dry kibble.
- Profile: All life stages.
- Price on publish: $29.58.
What we like:
- Budget-friendly.
- Meets AAFCO guidelines.
- No corn, wheat or grains, and free of artificial colors, flavors and preservatives.
- Contains taurine for heart health.
What we don’t like:
- Contains common allergens besides grains.
- Potentially too high in protein for smaller, less active breeds.
- Some complaints of formula changes and adverse reactions.
The AP Buyline takeaway:
Grain-free formulas can be expensive for pet owners on a budget, but Purina ONE’s grain-free, high-protein kibble can be an affordable option for some dogs.
Best grain-free chicken-free dog food: Kirkland Signature Nature's Domain Salmon Meal & Sweet Potato Dog Food
Kirkland Signature Nature s Domain Salmon Meal & Sweet Potato Dog Food 35 lb.
Feeding a dog with a grain allergy can be hard. But feeding a dog with a grain allergy and an allergy to an animal protein used in most affordable dog foods? Well, that has to be close to impossible. The good news is that brands like Kirkland offer a safe, limited-ingredient option. “I think the ingredients are great — nice whole foods and salmon is a wonderful source of omega fatty acids for skin and coat health, while sweet potato is a nice source of slow-releasing energy,” Simon points out. “They’ve added several strains of probiotics, as well as berries for their antioxidants.”
Specifications:
- Best for: Dogs with chicken allergies.
- Type: Dry kibble.
- Profile: All life stages.
- Price on publish: $70.92.
What we like:
- Meets AAFCO guidelines.
- Contains taurine for heart health.
- Formulated for dogs with multiple allergies to commonly used ingredients.
What we don’t like:
- Only available in bulk.
- Not budget-friendly.
- Some dogs experience prolonged or worsened digestive distress.
The AP Buyline takeaway:
Finding a grain-free dog food that accommodates a chicken allergy can take some creativity, but Kirkland’s quality ingredients can help many sensitive dogs.
Get it here: Kirkland Signature Nature's Domain Salmon Meal & Sweet Potato Dog Food
Best organic grain-free dog food: Tender & True Organic Chicken & Liver Recipe Grain-Free Canned Dog Food
Tender & True Organic Chicken & Liver Recipe Grain-Free Canned Dog Food
For pet owners who think finding healthy, grain-free dog food is difficult, good luck finding ethically sourced grain-free dog food. After Castor & Pollux — one of the few organic lines of dog food — was discontinued recently, organic grain-free dog food has become even harder to track down. The best bet for conscientious dog owners is Tender & True, Simon advises. Although not every formula is certified, they have several organic options, including canned dog food and kibble for small breeds.
Specifications:
- Best for: Pet owners who prefer organic.
- Type: Wet food.
- Profile: All life stages.
- Price on publish: $45.85.
What we like:
- Meets AAFCO guidelines.
- Made with certified organic chicken or turkey as the first ingredient.
- No corn, wheat, grains or soy, and free of artificial colors, flavors and preservatives.
What we don’t like:
- Does not contain taurine.
- The paté texture and liver taste do not appeal to some dogs.
- Complaints of a foul smell, even when refrigerated.
The AP Buyline takeaway:
There are very few organic grain-free dog foods on the market, but Tender & True is worth asking your veterinarian about.
Get it here: Tender & True Organic Chicken & Liver Recipe Grain-Free Canned Dog Food
Best grain-free dog food for puppies: Orijen Puppy Dry Dog Food, Grain-Free Dry Dog Food for Puppies
ORIJEN Puppy Grain-Free Dry Puppy Food, 13-lb bag
Simon is usually reluctant to recommend grain-free foods to puppies because most younger dogs should eat some grain. “Most food allergies develop later in life,” she explains. Still, in rare instances when there is prolonged digestive distress or skin problems that other interventions haven’t helped, she makes an exception with Orijen Puppy. The high protein formula contains “WholePrey” ingredients that growing dogs need, like “omega fatty acids, which are important for brain development in the younger dog.” Orijen offers many grain-free formulas to accommodate each stage of life, compared to other brands with only one or two grain-free options.
Specifications:
- Best for: Puppies.
- Type: Dry kibble.
- Profile: Puppy.
- Price on publish: $65.83.
What we like:
- Meets AAFCO guidelines.
- Rich source of protein and other vitamins and minerals.
- Made from 85% animal ingredients like free-run chicken and wild-caught fish.
What we don’t like:
- Does not contain taurine.
- Some dogs continue to have prolonged or worsened stomach problems.
The AP Buyline takeaway:
Although most puppies should eat a grain-inclusive diet, Orijen Puppy can meet your growing dog’s nutritional needs.
Get it here: Orijen Puppy Dry Dog Food, Grain-Free Dry Dog Food for Puppies
Best grain-free high protein dog food: Merrick Grain-Free Dry Dog Food Real Chicken & Sweet Potato Recipe
Merrick Real Chicken + Sweet Potato Recipe Grain-Free Adult Dry Dog Food, 22-lb bag
There are several reasons why some dogs may require more protein than others. Puppies, larger breeds and working dogs — pups in charge of practical tasks — all need a little more protein compared to smaller, older and more sedentary dogs. Most grain-inclusive dry kibble contains about 18% protein, whereas Merrick’s grain-free dry dog food contains nearly twice that, at 34%. “Merrick grain-free dog food is rich in protein and contains other superfoods,” Hsia says. Other superfoods, like blueberries, add antioxidant properties to the formula, and supplements like glucosamine and chondroitin support healthy cartilage in the hips and joints.
Specifications:
- Best for: Dogs who need a lot of protein.
- Type: Dry kibble.
- Profile: Adult.
- Price on publish: $47.48.
What we like:
- Animal protein is always the primary ingredient.
- Rich with antioxidants and other vitamins and minerals.
- Nearly twice as much protein as grain-inclusive formulas.
What we don’t like:
- Less suited for smaller breeds and older dogs.
- Complaints about changes in the formula.
- Some reports of stomach problems.
The AP Buyline takeaway:
Larger and more active dogs benefit from higher-protein diets, and if they have a grain allergy Merrick may be a suitable kibble option.
Get it here: Merrick Grain-Free Dry Dog Food Real Chicken & Sweet Potato Recipe
How we selected the best grain-free dog food
Since the topic of grain-free is still a sensitive and evolving one in the veterinary world, we relied on the existing research, along with the cautious recommendations of experts. We also considered customer reviews.
Benefits of grain-free dog food for dog health
Before DCM concerns, grain-free diets were initially considered healthier because some brands use too much grain and filler in dry dog food, Ostermeier says. “This can trigger all kinds of medical issues in dogs, especially involving the digestive system and skin health,” she explains.
This can still be true when there is a grain allergy, but before assuming these upsides apply to your pup, consult with a veterinarian or another specialist, like a veterinary nutritionist, to confirm going grain-free will improve their diet. “Just simply avoiding grains isn't going to ensure that they are feeding their dog in the best way possible,” Ostermeier notes.
How grain-free formulas meet the dietary needs of dogs
Meeting the nutritional needs of dogs is complicated with a grain-free diet, so vets like Little only recommend them when there is a grain allergy present and when prescription food is not an option.
While grains do not contain taurine specifically, they contain precursor amino acids that are synthesized to make taurine. To make up for the absence of grains, dog foods need another source of taurine or taurine precursors, like fish, shellfish, chicken or turkey. “The animal protein itself doesn’t make a difference, but more the ratio of how much legumes, peas and potatoes are used,” Little adds.
Frequently asked questions (FAQs)
How do I switch my dog to grain-free dry dog food?
The one noncontroversial aspect of grain-free diets among experts is how to switch a dog from a grain-inclusive brand — and that should always be a careful transition to avoid unnecessary digestive distress.
“Start by mixing small amounts of the new grain-free food with their existing diet and gradually increase the proportion over several days,” Hsia suggests. “This gradual transition can help prevent digestive upset and allow your dog’s system to adjust to the new diet.”
Is it really healthier for a dog to eat grain-free?
It is only healthier to feed a dog grain-free food when they have a legitimate allergy to grains and you do not have access to prescription food. Likewise, it is only healthier to feed a dog grain-free dog food if the licensed veterinarian treating them approves this diet change.
Although the link between grain-free dog food and heart disease has yet to be proven, veterinarians are divided on whether it’s the healthiest and safest option. For instance, vets like Little rarely recommend grain-free foods, whereas veterinarians outside the U.S., like Simon, seem more open to alternative approaches to nutrition.
Experts like Ostermeier fall somewhere in the middle and suggest feeding dogs some grains unless there is a grain allergy. “It is best to avoid extremes, so going from too much grain to no grain at all is kind of extreme.”
Do vets recommend grain-free dog food?
Vets like Little don’t recommend grain-free dog foods unless all other options are ruled out because “most nutritionists that I have talked to don’t recommend them due to the risk,” he says.
Ostermeier agrees that grain-free diets are not popular in the veterinary world, but they are not unheard of either. “Dog owners need to find a vet who is willing to approach nutrition in a way that aligns with their approach to nutrition,” she explains. “If they want to discuss feeding strategies that are considered ‘alternative,’ it is best to consult with an integrative veterinarian or veterinary nutritionist.”
What is the healthiest food to feed your dog?
Most experts agree that the healthiest dog food meets AAFCO or WSAVA standards and is recommended by a licensed veterinarian who treats your pet. In addition to these priorities, the healthiest dog food is one that your pet tolerates without skin allergies or digestive distress. The latter is where grain-free dog food might be helpful. If you suspect your dog may have a grain allergy, ask your vet about allergy testing.
If your dog is not allergic to grains, the healthiest diets are three parts protein to one part carbohydrate, or two parts protein to one part carbohydrate, Ostermeier suggests. The exact ratio depends on breed, size and life stage. “I also recommend at least 50% in high moisture food,” Ostermeier says, such as canned or wet food. “I prefer my patients to eat formulated gently cooked foods, such as the ones found in Chi Dog diets, because they are simple, healthy, balanced and high in moisture.”
Considering this, incorporating some grain-free food into your dog’s diet makes sense, and wetter may be better.
AP Buyline’s content is created independently of The Associated Press newsroom. Our evaluations and opinions are not influenced by our advertising relationships, but we might earn commissions from our partners’ links in this content. Learn more about our policies and terms here.