Best & Healthiest Dog Food in UK 2023: Dry, Wet, Grain-Free & More

If you’re looking to find the crème de la crème of dog foods available in the UK, you’ve barked up the right tree!

Trust me, I have been where you are right now. Picking the right kibble for our mutts is no small feat. You could always look at reviews on Amazon or listen to the cashier at the pet store, but those people seem biased.

The trick to choosing the best dog food is keeping everything simple. Think about how you choose food for yourself. Do you care for extra features more than the fundamentals?

It’s not just about fancy packaging or gourmet-sounding names. It’s about what’s inside that bag. So, to help you make the correct choice, we bought and opened over 30 bags of dog food (both dry and wet).

To be honest, my wife and I have used kibble made by Lily’s Kitchen for quite a few years for our jug, Jeff. But that doesn’t mean they’re the best choice for everyone.

Here’s a quick list if you want:

How to Buy the Best Food for Your Dog 

I know I’m a bit too organised, but whenever I want to buy something new, I open a Google spreadsheet. It’s crucial to define your parameters and requirements, after all.

To buy the best dog food for your puppy, adult or senior dog, you need to consider 8 facts. They are:

1. Dry Food vs Wet Food

The first decision you must make is whether to go for dry or wet kibble.

Dry food is convenient, cost-effective, and great for your dog’s dental health (it reduces tartar buildup). In comparison, wet food is more appealing for picky eaters, is easier to chew, and helps with hydration.

Some owners choose both, but the question arises: Can I mix dry food with wet food?

Generally, mixing some dry dog food into wet kibble is a great idea if your dog is a picky eater. Your pooch will be more inclined towards a mixture than dry food. That way, you could meet their nutritional needs and slowly transition towards dry dog food. 

2. Quality of Ingredients

Just as we scrutinise food labels for ourselves, we should do that for our doggos too.

Look for a product where a high-quality source of protein, such as chicken, beef, or lamb, is listed as the first ingredient. Avoid foods with excessive fillers, artificial colours, and preservatives.

Pro Tip: The simpler the ingredient list, the better it is for your dog.

3. Nutritional Balance

Dogs have different needs based on breed, sex, age, and exercise Level.

A large breed puppy, for instance, requires different nutrients than a senior small breed. Females in heat, pregnant or lactating dogs, and neutered dogs have unique nutritional requirements as well.

Similarly, active breeds require more calories than your average couch potato breeds.

4. Brand Reputation

In the UK, several reputable dog food brands stand out for their quality and commitment to canine well-being. Lily’s Kitchen, Harrington’s Orijen, and Canagan are just a few examples of brands that have earned our trust through their transparency and use of high-quality ingredients.

The only exception to this rule would be choosing local brands that may not be as famous but provide superior quality.  

5. Price and Availability

What most dog owners don’t understand is that quality dog food options are available in various price ranges. You can find kibble on a reasonable budget with some extra research. 

However, don’t compromise on quality to save a few bucks – in the long run, feeding your dog a balanced and nutritious diet will save on vet bills. And it’s the right thing to do.

6. Shelf Life

Generally, dry dog food has a shelf life of 12-18 months, while canned wet food can last up to 2 years unopened. Once opened, wet food should be consumed within a few days.

Always check the expiry date before purchasing and store the food in a cool, dry place to preserve its freshness.

7. Special Dietary Needs

Some dogs have special dietary needs due to allergies, sensitivities, or health conditions.

Grain-free foods are a popular choice for dogs with allergies, but it’s important to consult a vet before making any drastic changes to your dog’s diet.

There are also prescription diets available for dogs with specific health issues, which should only be used under veterinary supervision.

8. Customer Reviews and Testimonials

Look for patterns in the reviews – if several reviews mention an improvement or deterioration in a dog’s health after using a particular food, it’s worth considering.

Once you get good at recognising patterns, you’ll quickly filter genuine reviews among fake or paid ones.

Best Dry Dog Food Options in the UK 2023

Dry Dog Food	Lily’s Kitchen	Harrington’s	Orijen	Canagan	Wellness CORE	Wagg	Arden Grange	Solimo
Main Protein Sources	Variety of meats	Chicken, Turkey	Chicken, Turkey, Herring	Lamb	Turkey, Chicken Meal	Chicken	Chicken, Lamb	Turkey
Additional Key Ingredients	Vegetables, Fruits, Herbs	Brown Rice, Beet Pulp	Various fresh and raw meats	Sweet Potato, Botanicals	Peas, Potatoes, Spinach	Prebiotic MOS, Yucca Extract	Prebiotics, Cranberry	Peas, Beet Pulp
Grain-Free?	Yes	No	Yes	Yes	Yes	Yes	No (but no wheat gluten)	No
Suitable For	Puppies, Adults, Seniors	All Breeds	High-activity dogs	All Life Stages	Large Breeds	All Breeds and Life Stages	Adult Dogs	Adult Dogs
Price Range	£££	£	£££	££	£££	£	£££	£
Where to Buy	Online, Pet Stores, Supermarkets	Online, Pet Stores	Online, Specialty Stores	Online, Pet Stores	Online, Pet Stores	Online, Pet Stores, Supermarkets	Online, Pet Stores	Amazon
Reasons to Buy	Nutrient-dense, Organic ingredients	Balanced nutrients, Cost-effective	Biologically appropriate, High protein	Biologically appropriate, Grain-free	Whole-prey diet, Grain-free	Affordable, Supports immune health	Holistic approach, No artificial additives	Cost-effective, Developed by nutritionists
Reasons to Avoid	Pricier than	Contains grains	Premium price, Potential allergen (eggs)	Pricey, Limited flavour options	Specific to large breeds, Pricier side	Limited flavour options	Packaging issues, Contains grains	Contains cereals, Limited natural ingredients

1. Lily’s Kitchen Chicken and Duck Grain-Free Dry Food

Reasons to Buy:

• Contains Omega-3 and Omega-6 for healthy skin and coat
• Added glucosamine and chondroitin for joint health
• Free from grains, sugar, and artificial additives
• Suitable for dogs with sensitive stomachs

Reasons to Avoid:

• Kibble size is slightly bigger than the average
• May be challenging for smaller breeds to eat

Lily’s Kitchen Chicken and Duck Grain-Free is the best dry dog food and grain-free option in the UK. This kibble offers a mouth-watering mix of fresh chicken and duck packed with fruits and vegetables. The formula ensures your dog gets a wholesome meal.

The recipe is specially balanced with the right proportions of protein, fats, and fibre to cater to various dietary needs.

While the kibble size may pose an issue for smaller breeds, the overall benefits make it a leading choice for quality dry dog food.

Quality and Nutrition:

Chicken & duck (41% by weight) are high-quality protein sources with low-fat content. On the other hand, sweet potatoes & lentils are excellent carb sources for long-lasting energy. All this is then supplemented with apples, carrots, glucosamine, chondroitin and omega fatty acids.

Price Range and Availability:

Lily’s Kitchen has priced this at a mid-range level (££), offering great value for the quality. It’s available on Amazon and at various pet food retailers across the UK.

2. Harrington’s Dry Dog Food Salmon & Potato 

Reasons to Buy:

• Economically priced
• Rich in Omega-3 and Omega-6 fatty acids
• Contains prebiotic FOS, fibre, and taurine
• Free from artificial ingredients and gluten

Reasons to Avoid:

• Including potatoes may mean higher calories

Harrington’s is a well-known brand that offers a selection of dog foods that cater to various needs without breaking the bank.

Per my analysis and research, I can safely say that Harrington’s is your best option if you’re looking for a balance between price and quality for your senior dog.

Quality and Nutrition:

Harrington’s Salmon and potato recipe is crafted to support dogs through all life stages. The main ingredient, fresh salmon, offers high-quality protein to maintain strong muscles. Additionally, the absence of dairy, wheat gluten, and artificial additives makes it an excellent choice for dogs with allergies or intolerances.

Price Range and Availability:

This food is well-positioned for those on a budget, offering great value (price range indicated as £). Harrington’s Dry Dog Food Salmon & Potato can be found in many pet stores across the UK, as well as online retailers.

3. Orijen Original Biologically Appropriate Dry Dog Food

Reasons to Buy:

• 85% high-quality protein content
• 38% protein content specific for biological nutritional needs
• Suitable for all breeds
• Combination of fresh and air-dried meat

Reasons to Avoid:

• Some reports of packaging issues upon delivery
• Contains eggs, a potential allergen

Orijen Original is a top-tier option for dog owners who want a recipe that mirrors their pet’s evolutionary dietary needs. Its high protein content, primarily sourced from real chicken, herring, and turkey, provides a robust foundation for maintaining lean muscle mass and vitality.

Quality and Nutrition:

The inclusion of both fresh and air-dried meats delivers not only a variety of proteins but also an enhanced taste that dogs love. With a focus on quality, Orijen’s kibble food is designed to sustain the dietary requirements of high-energy breeds.

Price Range and Availability:

This premium dog food is in the higher price bracket (£££), reflective of its superior ingredient list and nutritional profile.

4. Canagan Grass Fed Lamb Dry Food

Reasons to Buy:

• Biologically appropriate ratio of meat to vegetables
• 65% protein content animal ingredients
• A healthy mix of vitamins and minerals
• Grain-free
• Made in the UK

Reasons to Avoid:

• Animal protein content may be too high for some breeds
• Expensive

Canagan Grass Fed Lamb Dry Food is a biologically appropriate food for dogs, meaning it’s designed to match the natural diet your dog would consume in the wild. Canagan takes pride in its high meat content, primarily from grass-fed lamb, which is a rich source of protein and other nutrients.

Price Range and Availability:

While Canagan might be considered a premium brand, reflected in a higher price point (£££), the cost is justified by the quality of the ingredients and the manufacturing process.

5. Wellness CORE Large Breed Original Dog Food

Reasons to Buy:

• 57% chicken content
• Grain-free
• Additives like L-carnitine
• No artificial colours, flavours, or preservatives.

Reasons to Avoid:

• Premium price
• High protein content may not be ideal for some dogs

Wellness CORE Large Breed Original is tailored to meet the nutritional demands of larger dogs, focusing on high-quality proteins to support their sizable muscle mass and active lifestyles. This U.S.-based brand emphasises good health through nutritionally dense formulas.

Quality and Nutrition:

The core ingredients are centred around deboned chicken and chicken meals, ensuring that the protein levels meet the needs of large-breed dogs.

Adding fruits and vegetables like broccoli, spinach, and berries provides a wealth of vitamins and antioxidants. The grain-free formula includes potatoes, peas, and linseed for carbs and fibre, while chicory root and L-Carnitine offer digestive and metabolic benefits, respectively.

Price Range and Availability:

Wellness CORE is a premium brand, and this is reflected in its price range (£££). But it’s an investment in your dog’s health that may be necessary for some breeds.

6. Wagg Complete Wheat Free Chicken Dry Dog Food

Reasons to Buy:

• Wheat-free formula
• Enriched with vitamin E.
• Contains prebiotic MOS
• Free from artificial colours, flavours, and soy

Reasons to Avoid:

• May be pricier for some budgets

Wagg’s wheat-free chicken recipe is a premium choice for pets with a delicate digestive system. It’s a well-crafted food that takes into consideration the holistic well-being of your pooch.

Quality and Nutrition:

Rice is included as a gentle carbohydrate source that’s easy on the stomach. The addition of vitamin E supports immune health, guarding against illnesses and bolstering the body’s defences.

Price Range and Availability

This dog food is positioned at a higher price point (£££) compared to some market competitors, but it stands out with its wheat-free and natural composition.

7. Arden Grange Dry Dog Food

Reasons to Buy:

• Fresh chicken
• Free from soy, wheat, and dairy
• Enriched with prebiotics, omega fatty acids, and essential vitamins

Reasons to Avoid:

• Some reports of subpar packaging quality

Arden Grange has crafted their adult dog food with high-quality chicken, offering a wholesome source of protein. Including rice as a carbohydrate source and beet pulp for fibre ensures a balanced diet.

Adding prebiotics like FOS and MOS supports digestive health, while the right balance of omega fatty acids enhances the condition of the skin and coat.

Price Range and Availability: This product is in a mid to high price bracket (££), reflecting its premium ingredient list and the inclusion of special nutrients like L-tryptophan, known for its mood-regulating benefits.

Arden Grange also offers a distinctive lamb meat meal option, using meadow-fed lamb as a high-protein alternative to chicken.

8. Amazon Brand – Solimo Complete Dry Dog Food

Reasons to Buy:

• Highly affordable pricing
• Developed by nutritionists and vet-approved
• Easily digestible turkey as the primary meat source
• Includes natural sources of fibre and probiotics

Reasons to Avoid:

• Contains cereals, a potential allergen

Amazon’s Solimo brand enters the pet food market with a promise of complete nutrition that’s both budget-friendly and nutritionist-formulated. With the convenience of Amazon’s delivery service, it’s an accessible option for most pet owners in the UK.

Quality and Nutrition:

Their kibble offers a balanced diet with turkey as a lean protein, cereals such as maise provide carbohydrates, and fibre sources include peas and beet pulp.

The inclusion of probiotics further assists in maintaining a healthy gut flora, which is essential for a strong immune system.

Price Range and Availability:

The Solimo brand is known for its competitive pricing (£), making it one of the most economical choices in the UK market. The convenience of Amazon’s platform ensures easy purchasing and quick delivery.

Special Considerations:

While it does contain cereals for dogs without grain allergies, it serves as an efficient source of energy and dietary fibre. It may not suit all dogs, especially those with specific grain sensitivities or requiring a grain-free diet.

Best Wet Dog Food Options in the UK 2023

Wet Dog Food	Forthglade	Lily’s Kitchen	Naturo
Main Protein Sources	Chicken (75%)	Variety of fresh meats	Chicken, Lamb
Additional Key Ingredients	Butternut Squash, Carrots, Peas	Vegetables, Herbs	Brown Rice, Carrots, Peas
Grain-Free?	Yes	Yes	No
Suitable For	Puppies, Adults, Seniors	Puppies, Adults, Seniors	Adult Dogs
Portion Packaging	Pre-portioned trays	Cans or Trays	Cans or Trays
Price Range	Pricier side	Premium Pricing	Value for Money
Where to Buy	Online, Pet Stores	Online, Pet Stores, Supermarkets	Online, Pet Stores
Reasons to Buy	High meat content, Convenient packaging, Ideal for fussy eaters	Nutrient-packed, Variety of flavours	Good-quality protein, Balanced diet, Pleasing for picky eaters
Reasons to Avoid	Higher price point, Increased plastic consumption	Pricier than average	Contains grains Specific to adult dogs

1. Forthglade Chicken Wet Food with Butternut Squash

Reasons to Buy:

• Packed with nutrients
• Long shelf life (can be refrigerated for up to 48 hours after opening)
• Consistently high-quality

Reasons to Avoid:

• Somewhat pricey
• Extra plastic usage due to pre-portioned packaging

Forthglade makes the best wet dog food in the UK. Their Chicken with Butternut Squash and Vegetables, Natural Wet Food especially stands out due to a whopping 75% chicken content, paired with wholesome veggies like butternut squash, carrots, and peas.

The chicken provides a high-quality source of protein, and the butternut squash offers a low-fat option rich in vitamins A, C, and E. This way, you can focus on both the muscular and immune development of your pooch.

If you’re worried about trust, don’t be. With over 50 years of experience, Forthglade is among the most trusted names in the UK dog food market. 

Price Range and Where to Buy:

As with most good things, Forthglade does fall on the pricier side, which reflects its high-quality ingredients and convenient packaging. But not to worry, they always have special offers going on for pet owners.

2. Lily’s Kitchen Favourites Wet Food Multipack

Reasons to Buy:

• Packed with nutrients
• Variety of flavours to cater to your dog’s nose
• Widely available
• Nutritionally complete and balanced

Reasons to Avoid:

• Pricier than average 

Lily’s Kitchen offers a top-tier selection of natural wet dog food packed with nutrients for your furry companion.

Their “Favourites Multipack” recipes include a lavish blend of fresh meat, vegetables, and herbs, completely devoid of any meat meal or subpar ingredients.

Key Ingredients and Their Benefits:

• Fresh Meat: A high-quality source of protein, essential for muscle growth and repair.
• Vegetables: Provide essential vitamins and minerals, supporting overall health.
• Herbs: Added for their potential to enhance the flavour naturally and provide additional nutritional benefits.

With Lily’s Kitchen, you’re opting for a brand that prioritises your dog’s health and taste buds simultaneously. Whether your dog is a picky eater or you’re simply being a “chef” with a high-quality diet, Lily’s Kitchen stands out as a superb choice.

3. Naturo Wet Food

Reasons to Buy:

• Filled with good-quality protein
• Balanced diet (brown rice and vegetables supplement the meat)
• Pleasing for picky eaters
• Value for money

Reasons to Avoid:

• Contains grains
• Specific to adult dogs 

Naturo Adult Chicken, Lamb and Rice with Vegetables Wet Food is the best wet kibble for senior dogs in the UK. It offers a delicious and nutritious meal option for your canine companion, with a unique blend of chicken, lamb, brown rice, carrots, peas and several additional supplements.

You already know chicken and lamb are good protein sources, so I won’t go into detail again. Moving on, brown rice is an excellent source of carbs that help maintain a healthy digestive system.

Suitable Dog Sizes and Life Stages:

Naturo’s Wet Dog Food is tailored for adult dogs and isn’t ideal for adult dogs or growing puppies.

This product is an excellent value for money and can be easily bought online.

Best Dog Food for Special Dietary Needs in the UK

There’s a LOT that could be covered in special dietary needs, but I decided to go with the four main ones. 

1. Best Air Dried Dog Food: Pure Pet Food

Reasons to Buy:

• Long shelf life
• Smaller than regular kibble (in size)
• Ideal for dogs with sensitive stomachs

Reasons to Avoid:

• It’s not fresh

Pure Pet Food stands out as the best-air-dried dog food, providing a healthier alternative to traditional kibble while accommodating the needs of dogs with sensitive stomachs. The air-drying process ensures all the vital nutrients are retained, offering a minimally processed food option.

Each ingredient is finely chopped and then gently dried at a low temperature. Of course, it’s “best practice” for air drying. But it improves digestion in your pooch’s stomach.

And if you have a picky eater, you can add water and turn it into wet dog food.

Price Range and Where to Buy:

While Pure Pet Food provides a premium air-dried dog food option, it maintains a competitive price point, especially considering the level of customisation and quality of ingredients.

Available directly from their website, they offer an online subscription service, where a personalised meal plan can be created after completing a quick 3-minute quiz.

2. Best Raw Dog Food: Naturaw

Reasons to Buy:

• Perfect for picky eaters
• Gentle on sensitive stomachs
• Filler-free ingredients for dogs with allergies
• Eco-Friendly Choice
• Value for money

Reasons to Avoid:

• Requires more than usual freezer space.

Naturaw makes the best raw dog food in the UK. With their exceptional food quality and best practices, Naturaw ensures that your furry friend enjoys a healthy, balanced diet while also contributing to the well-being of our planet.

Naturaw has not only been recognised for its quality pet food but also for embedding sustainable practices into its operations. From using 100% compostable packaging to generating their own solar power, this brand is a trailblazer in eco-friendly pet care.

Their raw dog food is nutritionally balanced, free from fillers and grains, and designed to provide all the necessary protein, vitamins, and minerals. The Forage range, in particular, is complemented with 10% superfood ingredients, showcasing Naturaw’s dedication to premium quality.

3. Best Insect Dog Food: Grub Club

Reasons to Buy:

• Eco-Friendly Option
• Ideal for dogs with meat allergies
• Long Shelf Life
• Value for Money

Reasons to Avoid:

• Only one recipe

Insect-based dog food is a revolutionary venture helping significantly reduce the carbon paw-print associated with traditional meat-based dog foods.

Grub Club, in particular, stands out as a leader in this space, offering next-generation, high-quality dog food formulated from ethically farmed insect proteins.

They’re utilising insect proteins sourced from the world’s leading black soldier fly farms in the UK and the Netherlands. This ensures the highest welfare standards and promotes a circular economy.

Created in collaboration with animal nutritionists and approved by the British Veterinary Association, Grub Club provides a complete and balanced diet for dogs.

The formula includes traditional superfood ingredients alongside the insect protein, ensuring dogs receive all the necessary nutrients for optimal health.

Product Range and Availability:

Grub Club offers insect-based dog food in various sizes, ranging from 1.5kg to 12kg bags, with larger bags offering better value for money.

The brand also provides a range of three different hypoallergenic and sustainable dog treats, perfect for training while caring for the planet.

How to Transition Your Dog to a New Food?

Switching your dog’s food isn’t something that should be done on a whim. A sudden change in diet can lead to gastrointestinal upset, including diarrhoea and vomiting. It’s best to do this gradually and in small proportions.

Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you switch dog foods safely:

1. Consult Your Vet. Before changing your dog’s diet, consult your vet. They can provide guidance based on your dog’s specific health needs.

2. Choose a High-Quality Dog Food. Opt for a high-quality dog food that meets your dog’s nutritional requirements. Brands like Lily’s Kitchen, Harrington’s, and Orijen offer various options to cater to different needs.

3. Gradual Transition. Mix a small amount of the new food with the current food. Over 7-10 days, gradually increase the amount of new food while decreasing the amount of old food.

4. Monitor Your Dog. Pay closer attention to your dog during the transitionary period. Look out for any signs of gastrointestinal upset or allergic reactions. If you notice any adverse effects, consult with your vet.

5. Be Patient. Some dogs might take longer to adjust to new food. Be patient and give them time to adapt.

Remember, every dog is different, and what works for one might not work for another.

Best Dog Food FAQs

1. Which is the best dry dog food?

Lily’s Kitchen Chicken and Duck Grain-Free is the best dry dog food and grain-free option in the UK. This kibble offers a mouth-watering mix of fresh chicken and duck packed with fruits and vegetables. The formula ensures your dog gets a wholesome meal.

2. How often should I change my dog’s food?

Technically, you shouldn’t change your dog’s food frequently to avoid digestive issues (stomach ache, diarrhoea, vomiting). Instead, it’s best to maintain consistency in your dog’s diet unless changes are necessary due to health issues or ageing and advised by a vet.

In such cases, you should gradually change their diet over several smaller periods of 7-10. It lets their digestive system adjust properly to the new kibble.

3. Are grain-free options better for my dog?

Grain-free dog foods aren’t necessarily better for every dog. They’re ideal for some dogs who might have allergies or sensitivities to grains that are present in most dry and wet dog food. Otherwise, they aren’t any better or worse than your average kibble.

4. How do I know if my dog is allergic to its food?

Food allergies in dogs can manifest in various ways, including skin issues (itching, redness), ear infections, or gastrointestinal problems (vomiting, diarrhoea). If you suspect your dog has a food allergy, consult a veterinarian.

They might suggest an elimination diet, where certain ingredients are removed from the diet for a period to identify the allergen. Once the allergen is identified, you can choose a dog food that does not contain that ingredient.

5. What dog food do UK vets recommend?

Veterinarians in the UK often recommend high-quality, well-balanced dog foods that cater to the specific needs of the individual dog. Brands such as Lily’s Kitchen, Harrington’s, and Orijen are known for their quality ingredients and balanced nutrition, often earning recommendations from vets.

6. Is supermarket dog food any good?

Generally speaking, the quality of supermarket dog food can vary widely. While there are some high-quality options available, others may contain fillers, artificial additives, and low-quality ingredients. The best choice is to read the label to gauge the quality of the kibble.

Last update on 2024-07-03 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API