Finding the best high protein dog food can make a big difference in your pet’s overall health and energy levels.
Protein is essential for muscle growth, repair, and overall bodily function.
High protein diets are especially important for active dogs or those with specific health needs that require more muscle support.
When we look for the best options, we aim to ensure our furry friends get the most balanced and nutritious meals.
High protein dog food comes in many forms, including kibble, wet food, and raw food.
Each type has its own set of benefits. For example, kibble is convenient and easy to store, while wet food often has more moisture, which can be good for hydration.
Raw food diets are closer to what dogs would eat in the wild and can be very high in protein.
Our goal is to find the top products in each of these categories to suit various needs.
When choosing a high protein dog food, we should keep an eye on the quality and source of the protein.
Some foods use high-quality animal proteins, while others might rely on plant-based proteins.
It’s also important to look at the other ingredients to ensure there are no fillers or unnecessary additives.
Pay attention to the brand reputation and reviews from other pet owners as well.
We spent many hours researching and testing different high protein dog foods to find the ones that best meet these criteria.
Best High Protein Dog Food
We’ve put together a list of the best high protein dog food options available.
Let’s ensure our furry friends stay strong and healthy with these top picks.
Purina ONE High Protein Dog Food
This dog food offers excellent nutrition and taste for our canine companions.
Pros
- High protein content for muscle strength
- Real beef and salmon for great taste
- No fillers or artificial ingredients
Cons
- Some dogs might be picky
- Pricey for large bags
- May cause gas in some dogs
Purina ONE True Instinct High Protein Formula with Real Beef and Salmon has become a staple in our dog’s diet. We love how it has real beef as the top ingredient and provides 32% protein to support muscle strength and a healthy heart. Our dog seems to have more energy, and his coat looks shinier and healthier.
The combination of crunchy kibble and tender morsels keeps our dog excited for mealtime. It’s also great to know that this food includes glucosamine for joint health and omega-6 fatty acids for a healthy coat. We appreciate that it’s made without any fillers or artificial ingredients.
However, not all dogs might take to this diet immediately. Our picky eater needed some encouragement at first. Also, the large bags are a bit pricey. We’ve also noticed that it can cause gas in some dogs. Despite these minor drawbacks, we find the overall quality of Purina ONE True Instinct to be a great choice for high protein dog food.
For more details or to make a purchase, visit the link to product.
Taste of the Wild High Prairie Dog Food
A must-buy for anyone looking to give their dog a high-protein diet with top-quality ingredients.
Pros
- High-quality meat ingredients
- Grain-free formula
- Includes fruits and vegetables for extra nutrients
Cons
- Higher price point
- Some dogs may not like the taste
- Available in only one size
We recently tried the Taste of the Wild High Prairie Dog Food, and our dogs absolutely loved it. The real roasted bison and venison grabbed their attention right away. It was clear from the first sniff that they were excited.
The grain-free recipe is great for dogs with allergies or sensitivities. We noticed our dog’s coat became shinier and their digestion improved after switching to this formula. The added fruits and veggies offer a nutritional boost that gives us peace of mind.
On the downside, this dog food can be a bit pricey. However, the high-quality ingredients make it worth the cost. Availability might also be an issue, as it only comes in a 28-pound bag. Despite these minor drawbacks, we think it’s a fantastic choice for anyone looking to give their pets a nutritious, high-protein diet.
Pedigree High Protein Dog Food
This is a solid choice for those who want a healthy, high-protein meal for their furry friend.
Pros
- Packed with real red meat
- Supports healthy skin and coat
- Helps clean dog’s teeth with crunchy kibble
Cons
- Might not suit all breeds
- Lack of variety in flavors
- Requires dry storage
Pedigree High Protein Dog Food comes with an impressive amount of real red meat, which our dogs absolutely love. This hearty recipe provides 25% more protein than typical dog foods, making it a great option for active canines. Our pups seem to gobble it up without hesitation, and the kibble’s crunchy texture also helps clean their teeth.
We’ve noticed our dog’s coat looking shinier and healthier since switching to this food, probably due to the added omega-6 fatty acids. It’s a great feeling knowing they’re getting a balanced diet that supports their overall wellbeing. Plus, it’s made in the USA, which adds an extra layer of trust in the product’s quality.
On the downside, some dogs might be picky about the flavor, as it mainly comes in Beef and Lamb. Additionally, due to the high protein content, it might not be suitable for every dog’s diet. Proper storage is essential too, as the bag needs to be kept in a cool, dry place to maintain freshness.
For a reliable and nutritious high-protein dog food that ensures our furry friends stay healthy and happy, Pedigree High Protein Dog Food is a go-to choice.
Purina Pro Plan Performance Dog Food
This dog food is perfect if you have an active and high-energy dog that needs extra protein and nutrients to stay fit and happy.
Pros
- Packed with real chicken for great flavor
- High in protein to help build lean muscle
- Boosts endurance and stamina
Cons
- On the pricier side
- Some dogs may not like the taste
- Large bag can be hard to store
We noticed our dogs have more energy and better muscle tone since switching to Purina Pro Plan Performance. They love the chicken flavor, and we feel confident knowing they’re getting balanced nutrition.
The formula is especially good for dogs that need a high-protein diet. The added amino acids help muscles repair after exercise, which is great for our hard-working pups.
If you’re looking for a way to support your dog’s active lifestyle, this dog food is a solid choice. It has made a noticeable difference in our pets’ energy levels and overall health.
Purina Pro Plan Sport High Protein With Salmon & Cod Entrée
This dog food is a high-protein choice that helps keep our active dogs healthy and full of energy.
Pros
- Packed with real salmon and cod
- Excellent hydration support
- Balanced meal with essential vitamins
Cons
- Strong fishy smell
- Some dogs may have allergies
- Can be pricey for large dogs
We noticed that our dog absolutely enjoys the taste of the Purina Pro Plan Sport High Protein With Salmon & Cod Entrée. It really supports his active lifestyle and keeps him fueled throughout the day.
What we also appreciate about this dog food is that it contains 23 essential vitamins and nutrients. These help support our dog’s immune system, so he stays healthy and strong.
On the downside, the smell can be quite strong when we open the can. Some dogs might also have allergies to one of the ingredients. Despite this, we find that its benefits far outweigh these minor drawbacks, making it a great choice.
Purina Pro Plan High Protein Dog Food
This dog food is great if you want a nutritious and tasty meal for your dog.
Pros
- Contains real chicken as the first ingredient
- High protein content supports muscle health
- Probiotics included for better digestion
Cons
- Some dogs might not like the shredded pieces
- Can be a bit expensive compared to other brands
- The bag size is large and heavy to handle
We’ve noticed our dogs can’t get enough of the Purina Pro Plan High Protein Dog Food. The combination of crunchy kibble and tender shredded pieces keeps them excited about mealtime. Plus, knowing it starts with real chicken reassures us we’re giving them quality.
The high protein content is excellent for active dogs, helping maintain their muscle mass. Our dogs’ coats have never looked better, thanks to the added vitamin A and omega-6 fatty acids. The inclusion of live probiotics is a bonus, as it supports their digestive health.
Despite its many benefits, handling the large bag can be a bit cumbersome. Additionally, some dogs may be picky about the shredded texture. It’s a bit pricier, but the quality justifies the cost. Overall, we think it’s a fantastic option for dog owners who prioritize nutrition and taste.
Purina Pro Plan Puppy Sport
This puppy food provides essential nutrients for active and growing puppies.
Pros
- High-quality protein from real chicken
- Supports brain development and trainability
- Promotes healthy bone growth
Cons
- Some puppies might not like the taste
- Slightly pricey compared to other brands
- Only available in dry kibble form
Purina Pro Plan Puppy Sport Development is perfect for athletic puppies. The main ingredient is real chicken, which provides high-quality protein to help build lean muscles. This food also includes nutrients that promote brain development, which can help puppies learn and train better.
Our puppies responded well to the food’s formula. They seemed more energetic and focused during play and training sessions. Additionally, the inclusion of calcium and phosphorus is great for bone growth, keeping our puppies strong and healthy.
The only downside is that some puppies are a bit picky about the taste. Also, it’s on the expensive side compared to other options on the market. If you’re looking for high-quality, performance-focused puppy food, this is a solid choice.
Halo Holistic Dog Food
Halo Holistic Dog Food keeps our dogs’ digestion smooth and their coats shiny.
Pros
- Cage-free chicken as first ingredient
- Supports complete digestive health
- No artificial preservatives
Cons
- Higher price point
- Only comes in one size (21 lbs)
- Limited flavor options
We noticed our dogs’ coats looking a lot shinier after switching to Halo Holistic Dog Food. The cage-free chicken really seems to make a difference in their overall health. No artificial preservatives give us peace of mind about what our pets are eating.
Despite the higher cost, we see it as an investment in our pets’ health. They love the taste, and we’ve had no trouble with picky eating. The addition of prebiotics, probiotics, and postbiotics definitely supports their digestion.
The 21-pound bag works well for us, but it might be less convenient for smaller households. We love that this food is cooked in the USA with responsibly sourced ingredients.
Would you like the next product review?
Purina ONE Plus Healthy Weight High-Protein Dog Food Dry Formula – 40 lb. Bag Turkey
This dog food is perfect for those of us looking to manage our dog’s weight without sacrificing taste or nutrition.
Pros
- Packed with high-quality protein and real turkey
- Supports joint health with natural glucosamine
- Promotes a healthy immune system
Cons
- Only available in a large 40 lb. bag
- May not suit very picky eaters
- Fiber content might be too high for some dogs
This Purina ONE high-protein formula really impressed us. Our dogs took to it right away, clearly loving the mix of crunchy kibble and tender morsels. We saw that the primary ingredient is real turkey, which helps maintain their lean muscles and overall health.
We appreciated how this dog food supports joint health, thanks to its natural glucosamine sources. It also contains antioxidants, which help bolster our dogs’ immune systems. Plus, it includes omega-6 fatty acids and essential vitamins to keep their coats shiny and skin healthy.
However, the large bag might be inconvenient for some people, particularly if storage space is limited. While our dogs loved the taste, we know some dogs can be more finicky. Additionally, the high fiber content might not be suitable for all dogs, so it’s something to consider.
Despite the few minor downsides, we believe this Purina ONE Plus Healthy Weight High-Protein Dog Food is a great option if you’re looking to keep your dog healthy and active.
Pedigree High Protein Dog Food
This high-protein dog food is a solid choice for owners who want the best for their furry friends.
Pros
- Contains real chicken
- Great taste with whole grains and veggies
- Enriched with Omega 6 and Zinc
Cons
- Some dogs may not like the hard kibble
- The bag is difficult to reseal
- Might not be suitable for dogs with allergies
We’ve found that our dogs really enjoy this Pedigree High Protein Dog Food. The real chicken and turkey flavor make mealtime exciting for them. The added whole grains and vegetables ensure that they get a balanced diet.
What we appreciate most is how this food supports our dogs’ skin and coat. The Omega 6 Fatty Acid and Zinc really help keep them looking and feeling healthy. Watching our dogs with shiny coats and healthy skin makes us feel great about our choice.
Another thing we’ve noticed is how this food doesn’t have any high fructose corn syrup, artificial flavors, or added sugars. It really feels like we’re making a healthy choice for our pets. Though some dogs might find the hard kibble a bit tough, most seem to chew it just fine.
Buying Guide
When finding the right high-protein dog food, there are key features to consider. Here’s what to look for:
Protein Content
The protein content is crucial. We should aim for dog foods with at least 25% protein. Look at the label to confirm this. Higher protein levels support muscle development and overall health.
Ingredients List
Check the ingredients list. The first ingredient should be a real source of animal protein such as chicken, beef, or fish. Avoid foods with fillers like corn, soy, or wheat.
Nutritional Balance
Make sure the food provides a balance of nutrients. Besides protein, our dogs need fats, fibers, vitamins, and minerals. Look for foods labeled as “complete and balanced” by the Association of American Feed Control Officials (AAFCO).
Allergies and Sensitivities
Some dogs have food allergies or sensitivities. If we know our dog has an issue with certain ingredients, choose a high-protein food that avoids these triggers.
Life Stage Appropriateness
Dogs have different nutritional needs at various life stages. Ensure the food matches our dog’s age, whether they’re a puppy, adult, or senior.
Taste and Palatability
Our dogs need to eat the food we buy, so it should taste good to them. Look for options known for being palatable. Sometimes, a mix of dry and wet food can help.
Price and Quality
While we want the best for our dogs, the price can play a role. Finding a high-quality food within our budget is important. Remember, sometimes paying a bit more for quality saves on vet bills later.
Example:
Feature | What to Look For |
---|---|
Protein Content | ≥ 25% |
First Ingredient | Real meat |
Balance | Complete & balanced by AAFCO |
Avoid | Fillers, allergens |
Life Stage | Puppy, Adult, Senior |
Palatability | Good taste review |
Price vs Quality | Within budget, good value |
By keeping these factors in mind, we can find the best high-protein food for our furry friends.