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Best Dog Food for Collies: Top 10 Picks (2024)

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best dog food for colliesPleasing pet parents since the 1940s, dry dog food has become a popular choice. Now that you have a Collie pup to feed and protect, it’s time to find the perfect fit for their nutritional needs.

From Instinct Raw Bites Beef Dog Food to Bones Chews USA Roasted Marrow Bone Dog Treats, each option offers unique benefits tailored specifically for collies.

Key Takeaways

  • Dry dog food has been popular for Collies since the 1940s, but it is important to consult with a vet for proper nutrition.
  • Some top dog food brands for Collies include Instinct Raw Bites, Royal Canin HP, Blue Buffalo, Orijen Senior, Hill’s Science Diet, Stella & Chewy’s, and Merrick Real Chicken.
  • Collies have specific dietary considerations such as following AAFCO guidelines for balanced nutrition, providing protein-rich diets for puppies, managing allergies, and tailoring nutrition for seniors and picky eaters.
  • Other factors to consider for Collies include health issues like hip dysplasia and bloat, as well as the choice between grain-free diets and wet vs. dry food.

Top 10 Best Dog Food for Collies

Finding the best dog food for your Collie can be a daunting task, but fortunately, there are some great options to consider. These include Instinct Raw Bites Beef Dog Food, Royal Canin HP Hydrolyzed Protein Dog Food, Blue Buffalo Dog Food, Orijen Senior Grain-Free Dog Food, Hills Science Diet Dog Food, Outward Hound Bowl, Purple Trixie Activity Flip Board, Bones Chews USA Roasted Marrow Bone Treats, Stella Chewy’s Chicken Patties Freeze Dried, and Merrick Real Chicken Sweet Potato – all of which provide quality nutrition tailored to this active breed.

1. Instinct Raw Bites Beef Dog Food

Instinct Frozen Raw Bites Grain-FreeView On Chewy
You’ll love Instinct Raw Bites Beef Dog Food, packed with protein and vitamins for your pup’s overall health. It’s cold-pressured to preserve nutrients and promote lean muscles, dental health, digestion, and energy levels.

This grain-free food is free of peas and other common allergens. It contains natural beef as well as non-GMO vegetables, fruits, and wholesome ingredients – all in 85% meat/organs & 15% fruits/vegetables proportions.

With customers reporting improved skin condition, coat shine, and energy boost in their dogs after switching to this product, you can rest assured that your furry friend will be getting the best nutrition out there!

Pros
  • High Protein content
  • Made from Natural Ingredients
  • No Artificial Colors or Flavors
  • Cold Pressurized for Maximum Nutrients
Cons
  • Dogs may be picky about this raw kibble
  • Frozen format not convenient for some
  • Slow introduction required if digestive issues arise

2. Royal Canin HP Hydrolyzed Protein Dog Food

Royal Canin Veterinary Diet HydrolyzedView On Chewy
Discover the power of Royal Canin HP Hydrolyzed Protein Dog Food to support your Collie’s gastrointestinal and dermatological health! This dry dog food is designed for adult dogs with food sensitivities and is formulated by veterinarians.

It contains low molecular weight peptides from hydrolyzed soy protein as its primary source of protein. Additionally, it is enriched with EPA and DHA fatty acids for healthy skin and digestion.

This 25.3-pound bag is free from peas and other common allergens and helps regulate intestinal transit and digestible flora balance. It also enhances the skin’s natural protective barrier, all without artificial colors or flavors! Many customers have noted positive results after transitioning their pets to this diet.

They have seen improved energy levels, replaced the need for other treatments, resolved tummy issues, and noticed healthier coat and skin condition in their dogs.

Even German Shepherds have successfully transitioned to this diet. However, some customers have expressed concerns about the high carbohydrate content compared to the low amount of proteins. A few customers have also reported itching and vomiting in their dogs after switching over.

While vets generally approve this reasonably priced treat option with no reported side effects so far, it may be worth exploring other hydrolyzed options before settling on one that suits your pet best.

Pros
  • Formulated by veterinarians specifically targeted at adult Collies with food sensitivities
  • Enriched with EPA & DHA fatty acids for healthy skin & digestion
Cons
  • High carbohydrate content compared to low amount of proteins

Mixed reviews exist regarding the granules being too fatty, while others rave about how much picky eaters love it. For example, a Maltese mix reportedly remained active at age 11 thanks to eating only Royal Canin’s HP Hydrolyzed Protein Dry Dog Food since puppyhood.

However, some customers find it overpriced given similar quality options available online, although shipping boxes often arrive damaged.

3. Blue Buffalo Dog Food

Blue Buffalo Life Protection FormulaView On Chewy
Experience the nutrition-packed power of Blue Buffalo Dog Food, with real meat, whole grains, veggies, fruit, and LifeSource Bits to keep your Collie going strong. Every ingredient is carefully selected for its nutritional value for adult dogs of all breeds.

It contains essential proteins for muscle development, plus carbs and vitamins that are necessary for energy levels, as well as strong bones and teeth.

But there are a few things to consider before feeding your four-legged friend Blue Buffalo Dog Food. Some dogs don’t take kindly to it straight out of the bag, so try mixing other foods into it. Reviews have been mixed regarding changes in stool color/smell after switching diets.

Individual components may not appeal to every pup’s taste buds. Formula changes mean older recipes aren’t always available anymore. Reactions vary from dog to dog when changing their diet drastically, so watch closely how they take to it.

4. Orijen Senior GrainFree Dog Food

ORIJEN Senior Grain-Free Dry DogView On Chewy
Orijen’s Senior Grain-Free Dog Food is crafted with up to 85% animal ingredients and ORIJEN WholePrey components, providing a balanced diet to help maintain a healthy weight and joint function. It contains fresh/raw chicken, turkey, salmon, whole herring, and chicken liver as the first five ingredients without soy or corn by-products.

Chondroitin glucosamine is included for joint health support. Customers have reported positive results, such as reduced stool volume, after switching their senior dogs to this food.

Many consider it one of the higher-end dry dog foods available on the market today due to its quality protein sources from around the globe. This ensures that your Collie gets all they need in terms of nutrition through their life stages into adulthood.

Pros
  • Contains up to 85% animal proteins & ORIJEN WholePrey components for nutritional balance & muscle development
  • Formulated especially for senior dogs with chondroitin glucosamine included for improved joint health support
  • Quality protein sourced from multiple locations across the globe ensures optimal nutrient delivery throughout life stages
Cons
  • Some customers experienced diarrhea & vomiting when introducing this food product into their pet’s diet
  • Recent changes in recipe formulation have caused digestive issues in some pets
  • Strong fish odor could be an issue depending on individual taste preferences

5. Hills Science Diet Dog Food

View On Chewy
Hills Science Diet Dog Food is formulated with real chicken and prebiotic fiber for improved digestion. It also contains essential vitamins and minerals that support skin health. The formula has been developed over decades of research to provide high-quality nutrition tailored to adult dogs of all sizes.

The dog food contains beet pulp, which nourishes the digestive system. It also has omega-6 fatty acids that promote a healthy coat, and vitamin E, which helps maintain strong bones and teeth. This product comes in a 30-pound bag suitable for small breeds up through large breeds or all breed types.

It is also available in special diets such as grain-free or sensitive digestion formulas.

Pros
  • Contains real chicken as the primary ingredient
  • Enriched with prebiotic fiber for healthy digestion
  • Vitamin E & Omega 6 Fatty Acids help maintain a lustrous coat
  • Recommended by veterinarians due to decades of research
Cons
  • Recent changes in the recipe may have caused some weight loss issues among canines
  • Some picky eaters need extra flavorings added before they will consume it
  • Possible side effects include ear infection & skin issues

6. Outward Hound Dog Bowl Purple

Outward Hound Fun Feeder InteractiveView On Chewy
Try the Outward Hound Dog Bowl Purple to slow down your Collie’s eating habits and prevent bloat! Its innovative ridges, grooves, and mazes will have them puzzling over their meal for hours. This non-slip bowl is top-rack dishwasher safe with low heat, so it won’t warp or become brittle after multiple washes.

Its portion control helps you feed your pup the right amount of food each time, while its BPA-free material ensures that no toxins are ingested during meals.

The Outward Hound Dog Bowl Purple is perfect for pups who need a slower eating pace due to obesity or digestion issues, as well as smart dogs who like a challenge when they eat.

Pros
  • Slow feeder maze design
  • Supports proper digestion
  • Prevents overeating, bloat regurgitation & obesity
  • Non-slip base for stability
  • Top rack dishwasher safe (low heat)
Cons
  • Minor wear & tear observed after a week of use
  • Some users noted a change in depth compared to older models

7. Trixie Dog Activity Flip Board

TRIXIE Activity Flip Board ActivityView On Chewy
For your energetic pup, the Trixie Dog Activity Flip Board provides hours of fun while rewarding them with treats. Made from durable plastic and measuring 9 x 9 x 2 inches, this puzzle game features meal-lengthening ridges and deep grooves to extend mealtime as well as rubber feet for stability during play.

With varying levels of difficulty that will challenge even the smartest dogs, it stimulates their mind while providing tasty rewards – making it ideal for adult dogs of medium breeds or smaller! The board can hold a limited number of treats but users suggest varying treat placement to increase difficulty and keep your dog interested in solving puzzles again and again!

Pros
  • Durable construction made from plastic material
  • Meal lengthening ridges & deep grooves help extend mealtimes
  • Non-slip rubber feet ensure stability when playing
  • Dishwasher safe makes cleaning simple & convenient
Cons
  • Too easy/quickly solved by smarter pups
  • Can only hold a limited amount of treats

8. Bones Chews USA Roasted Marrow Bone Dog Treat

Bones & Chews Made inView On Chewy
Treat your pup to the deliciousness of Bones Chews USA Roasted Marrow Bone Dog Treat, a 100% natural beef bone filled with marrow and slow-roasted for optimal moisture levels. It is rich in flavor and free from artificial colors, flavors, and preservatives.

This treat is suitable for adult dogs of medium, large, and giant breeds. It has been proven effective in removing plaque from dogs’ teeth while providing hours of long-lasting entertainment.

Customers have praised the product’s real meaty flavor that keeps their pups busy, as well as its dental benefits. However, some users have reported issues such as greasiness or quality decline on recent batches.

There have been problems with chipping or crushing due to delivery packaging, which is an area where improvement can be made.

Pros
  • High-quality treat made with 100% natural ingredients
  • Free from artificial colors, flavors, and preservatives
  • Effective at removing plaque and promoting dental health
  • Long-lasting entertainment value and enjoyment
  • Reasonably priced with vet approval
Cons
  • Potential grease transfer issue during delivery packaging
  • Quality decline recently reported due to chipping/crushing
  • Some negative reactions by certain dogs

9. Stella Chewys Chicken Patties Freeze Dried Dog Food

Stella & ChewyView On Chewy
Stella Chewy’s Chicken Patties Freeze Dried Dog Food offers an organic-certified, grain-free, and gluten-free recipe that can provide up to 85% of your Collie’s daily nutritional requirements. This product is made with cage-free chicken raised without hormones or antibiotics, as well as 100% organic fruits and vegetables.

The patties are freeze-dried for convenience but may be rehydrated with water if desired. It contains no grains or fillers, artificial preservatives, or coloring and is formulated to mimic a canine’s natural diet while providing added probiotics for healthy digestion.

Pros
  • Made using cage-free chickens raised without hormones/antibiotics
  • Contains 100% organic certified fruits/vegetables
  • No grains/fillers no artificial preservatives/colorings
  • Formulated to mimic a canine’s natural diets
  • Includes added probiotics for healthy digestion
  • Proudly made in the US using responsibly sourced ingredients
Cons
  • Mixed reviews on flavor preference
  • Inconsistencies reported regarding texture

10. Merrick Real Chicken Sweet Potato Dog Food

Merrick Real Chicken + SweetView On Chewy
Try Merrick’s Real Chicken Sweet Potato Dog Food, packed with nutrient-rich ingredients and designed to support joint health in adult dogs. This high-protein recipe features real deboned chicken as the first ingredient for a lean muscle boost, balanced out by 65% protein and healthy fat sources and 35% produce, fiber, vitamins, and minerals.

It is also grain-free, corn-free, wheat-free, soy-free, and gluten-free, so you can be sure your pup is getting only the best nutrition without any artificial colors or flavors added in. Omega fatty acids help keep the skin looking beautiful while glucosamine aids in healthy hips and joints over time.

The reviews are mixed on this one – some picky eaters don’t seem to like it, but there are plenty of happy customers that have been using Merrick products for years! There has been some concern about sweet potato being possibly unsuitable for dogs with allergies; however, long-term users don’t appear to have had issues yet still take precautions when introducing new food just in case their pets might react poorly.

Some reports of vomiting/diarrhea after consumption could be due to not transitioning properly or individual sensitivity towards certain ingredients, so the best practice would be to start slow and monitor carefully if making changes from existing diets!

Pros
  • High protein content & natural source of proteins such as deboned chicken
  • Packed full of essential vitamins/minerals needed for optimal pet health
  • Grain-Free & Gluten-Free diet helps those who may suffer from intolerances/sensitivities
Cons
  • Picky Eaters may not enjoy it due to its flavor profile
  • Could potentially cause an allergic reaction (especially if the dog already has known allergies)
  • Reports of vomiting/diarrhea – transition slowly between foods

Meeting AAFCO Guidelines

Meeting AAFCO Guidelines
To ensure the highest quality nutrition for your Collie, be sure to look for dog food that meets AAFCO guidelines. These regulations are designed to provide a nutritional balance and ensure ingredient quality so you can rest assured knowing your pet is receiving the health benefits of their meal.

When selecting collie-specific dog food, it’s important to pay attention to what makes up those meals and how they meet the dietary requirements of this breed. Collies have specific nutritional needs that should not be overlooked in order to maintain good health throughout their lifespan.

With their active lifestyle, high energy level, and unique coat type, it’s crucial to provide them with the right nutrients.

Look out for foods with naturally sourced ingredients like proteins from real meat sources such as chicken or fish. These proteins will provide the necessary fuel for their activity levels without adding unnecessary calories.

Additionally, look for digestible carbohydrates like brown rice or sweet potatoes, which will also help fuel their energy levels.

Dietary adjustments may also need to be made depending on their age – whether they are a puppy, adult, or senior. It’s important to consider their specific needs at each stage of life. When selecting dog food, avoid fillers such as wheat gluten or cornmeal, as they offer little in terms of nutrients but add unnecessary bulk to their diet.

Before investing in a new dog food for your Collie, make sure the product has gone through rigorous testing processes to ensure it meets AAFCO standards. This will give you peace of mind knowing that you are providing your beloved pup with a high-quality and nutritionally balanced diet.

Selecting the Best Dry Dog Food for Collies

Selecting the Best Dry Dog Food for Collies
When considering the best dry dog food for Collies, it is important to assess their protein requirements as well as health issues and diet. Protein-rich diets are beneficial for Collie puppies in aiding muscle development, while adult dogs need a balanced diet with lower calories.

Health considerations such as allergies, eye problems, and hip dysplasia should be taken into account when selecting a suitable dry dog food option.

Protein requirements for Collies

You’ll need to consider the protein requirements for Collies as you explore a diet that’s tailored to your pup’s needs. Protein sources like meat, poultry, and fish provide essential nutrients for muscle development and energy levels.

Senior nutrition should emphasize digestible carbohydrates while managing allergies with high-quality diets low in artificial additives. Dietary adjustments can be made based on age, size, activity level, and health of each individual Collie puppy or adult dog.

To manage allergies, it is important to avoid common allergens such as wheat gluten or corn meal. However, pet owners should consult their vet first before making any dietary changes due to potential health risks involved when selecting dry food products.

Health issues and diet

Be aware of the common health issues in Collies and how diet can help address them. Allergies, eye problems, hip dysplasia, and bloat are some of the conditions affecting this breed.

A balanced diet with high-quality proteins is essential for their overall health. Nutritional considerations, such as joint supplements and digestive aids, should be taken into account when selecting food for a Collie’s dietary requirements.

Food allergies may also arise; consult your vet to investigate potential triggers or special diets that could alleviate symptoms.

Finally, understand canine nutrition better by researching collie-specific food qualities like probiotics or omega fatty acids before making a purchase decision.

Best food brands

Discover the top-rated brands that offer healthy, nutritious options for your furry companion! Instinct Raw Bites Beef Dog Food for adult dogs of all breeds is high in protein and made with natural ingredients.

Royal Canin HP Hydrolyzed Protein Dog Food supports gastrointestinal and dermatological health. Blue Buffalo’s range caters to different life stages while featuring real meat, veggies, fruit, and LifeSource Bits.

Orijen Senior Grain-Free food aids joint health with fresh/raw meats as its first five ingredients. Hills Science Diet contains prebiotic fiber to promote digestion plus vitamins and amino acids for a shiny coat.

Choosing the Best Food for Border Collies

Choosing the Best Food for Border Collies
When it comes to their nutritional needs, Border Collies require a balanced diet based on age, size, activity level, and health. High-protein and high-calorie diets are recommended for puppies, while lower-calorie foods should be given to adult dogs.

Supplementation with fatty acids, vitamins, and minerals is also suggested to ensure comprehensive care for your furry friend.

Nutritional needs for Collies

Understanding your Collie’s nutritional needs is essential to providing them with a balanced diet that meets their unique health requirements. Look for high-quality, nutrient-dense dog food containing proteins and fats suited to the age of your Collie, while avoiding allergens like soy or wheat.

Dietary adjustments must be taken into account as well—puppies require more protein than adults, and seniors need lower-calorie foods. Consider dental care when selecting food; the crunchy texture helps reduce plaque buildup in dogs’ teeth.

Lastly, look out for potential allergies by researching ingredients before introducing new foods to your pet’s diet.

Top dog food brands

Popular dog food brands suitable for Collies include Instinct Raw Bites, Royal Canin HP Hydrolyzed Protein, Blue Buffalo Dog Food, Orijen Senior Grain-Free, and Hill’s Science Diet. Each brand offers high ingredient quality while considering individual dietary requirements to provide the best health benefits.

Important feeding guidelines should be followed depending on age and activity level to ensure optimum nutrition, with consideration of taste preferences for picky eaters. When switching a Collie’s dog food, it is important to pay attention to gradual transitions and adjust quantities as needed based on weight monitoring records.

Tailored nutrition for Border Collies

Tailoring a diet to your Border Collie’s individual needs is key for maximizing their energy, maintaining healthy joints and skin, and avoiding common health issues. Look for food with high-quality proteins like real meat or fish, essential fatty acids such as omega-3s or 6s, antioxidants for coat shine and joint support, plus vitamins and minerals in the right balance.

Avoid fillers like corn meal and wheat gluten that may cause allergies. Proper nutrition helps keep up with the daily demands of exercise and training these intelligent dogs need while keeping them happy!

Aim at nutrient-dense foods tailored to life stages, whether it’s puppyhood or the senior years.

Consider feeding frequency based on activity level.

Choose supplements if needed.

Tailored Nutrition for Border Collies

Tailored Nutrition for Border Collies
By tailoring your Border Collie’s nutrition to their age, size, activity level, and health needs, you can ensure they get the balanced diet they need. High-energy dogs like Border Collies require more calories than other breeds. Puppies, in particular, should have higher fat and protein percentages for muscle development.

As adults, their food intake should be adjusted according to exercise levels. Regular agility or herding training will increase caloric needs accordingly. A grain-free diet is often recommended for this breed due to potential allergies as well as hip dysplasia susceptibility.

Wet foods are an excellent way of providing hydration, while dry kibbles offer vital minerals such as calcium, which aids bone growth and overall health maintenance in all life stages of the dog’s lifespan.

Though a raw diet isn’t suitable for every pup, it is beneficial when feeding senior dogs with sensitive stomachs who may struggle with digestion issues such as bloat or gastric refluxes from high carbohydrate meals.

With an appropriate balance between proteins (meat/poultry) and healthy fats alongside fruits/veggies plus vitamins & minerals, you’ll keep your furry friend feeling energized throughout the day while avoiding common ailments associated with improper nutrition in this breed type.

Conclusion

For your Collie, selecting the best dog food is essential. With so many options available, it can be difficult to decide.

To make it easier, we’ve put together a list of the top 10 best dog food for Collies. From Instinct Raw Bites Beef Dog Food to Merrick Real Chicken Sweet Potato Dog Food, each of these options is sure to provide your pup with the nourishment they need.

Be sure to consider things like age, size, activity level, allergies, and health when choosing the best food for your Collie. With the right food, you can guarantee your furry friend is getting the best nutrition for a long and happy life.

Avatar for Mutasim Sweileh

Mutasim Sweileh

Mutasim is the founder and editor-in-chief with a team of qualified veterinarians, their goal? Simple. Break the jargon and help you make the right decisions for your furry four-legged friends.