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The Best Dog Food for Huskies for 2024: Top Picks for Your Pup

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best dog food for huskiesTo find the best dog food for your active Husky, look for high-quality, nutrient-dense options that support their unique dietary needs. Huskies require a specialized diet with ample protein, healthy fats, and essential vitamins and minerals to fuel their energetic lifestyles.

Consider age-appropriate formulas, with puppies needing more protein and fat than adults. Avoid artificial additives, and opt for human-grade ingredients. Be mindful of potential allergies or sensitivities, and adjust their diet accordingly.

With the right nutrition, you can keep your Husky happy, healthy, and thriving. Continue reading to discover our top 10 recommendations for the best dog food for huskies in 2024.

Key Takeaways

  • High-quality, nutrient-dense dog foods that cater to the unique dietary needs of Huskies are essential for their energetic lifestyles.
  • Age-appropriate formulas, with puppies needing more protein and fat than adults, should be considered.
  • Avoid artificial additives and opt for human-grade ingredients.
  • Be mindful of potential allergies or sensitivities and adjust their diet accordingly.

Top 10 Dog Foods for Huskies

As a Husky owner, you want to provide your furry friend with the best possible nutrition. We’ve compiled a list of the top 10 dog foods that cater specifically to the unique dietary needs of Huskies, ensuring your pup stays healthy and thriving.

1. Orijen Six Fish Grain Free Dog Food

ORIJEN Six Fish Grain-Free DryView On Chewy
When selecting a feast for your Husky, consider ORIJEN Six Fish Grain-Free Dog Food, a catch that’s sure to make tails wag. Crafted in the USA, this kibble skips the grains and chicken, opting for a sea of benefits with up to 85% animal ingredients, where the first six are fresh or raw whole fish.

It’s a biologically appropriate choice, supporting everything from immune systems to shiny coats. Just be mindful, as some dogs might find this rich diet leads to softer stools, and your nose might wrinkle at the fishy scent.

But for a Husky’s robust life, this food could be the perfect wave to ride.

Best For: Huskies and dogs at all life stages (except growing large breed dogs).

Pros
  • Rich in natural protein, vitamins, and minerals
  • Freeze-dried coating for delicious raw flavor
  • Supports immune system, skin, coat, and digestion
Cons
  • May cause softer stool in some dogs
  • Strong fishy smell

2. Hill’s Science Diet Adult Sensitive Stomach Dog Food

HillView On Chewy
Hill’s Science Diet Adult Sensitive Stomach & Skin Dog Food is a highly digestible and gentle option for adult dogs. It’s formulated with beet pulp, a prebiotic fiber that supports gut bacteria and a balanced microbiome, promoting healthy digestion.

The food is rich in vitamin E and omega-6 fatty acids, which nourish the skin and help maintain a lustrous coat. The ingredients include natural sources of protein like chicken and chicken meal, along with added vitamins, minerals, and amino acids to support overall health.

The food is suitable for adult dogs and isn’t recommended for puppies or pregnant/nursing dogs, who should be switched to Hill’s Science Diet Puppy during those stages of life. The food is available in various sizes, including 4lb, 15.5lb, and 30lb bags, and is designed for dry feeding.

It’s recommended by veterinarians and is backed by decades of research to guarantee it provides complete and balanced nutrition for adult dogs.

Best For: Adult dogs with sensitive digestion.

Pros
  • Highly digestible for optimal nutrient absorption
  • Supports healthy skin and a lustrous coat
  • Recommended by veterinarians
Cons
  • Contains grains
  • Not suitable for puppies or pregnant/nursing dogs
  • Only available in chicken flavor

3. Blue Buffalo Large Breed Puppy Dry Dog Food

Blue Buffalo Life Protection FormulaView On Chewy
Blue Buffalo Large Breed Puppy Dry Dog Food is a top pick for huskies due to its high-quality ingredients and nutritional profile. This food is designed to meet the unique needs of large breed puppies, providing the necessary protein and fat for growth and development.

The formula contains deboned chicken, chicken meal, and fish meal as protein sources, along with flaxseed and fish oil for omega fatty acids. It also includes vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants to support immune system health.

The kibble size is suitable for smaller jaws and helps in tartar removal. This food is free from corn, wheat, and soy, and is grain-free, making it a good option for huskies with sensitive stomachs.

Best For: Huskies due to its high-quality ingredients and nutritional profile.

Pros
  • High-quality ingredients like deboned chicken, chicken meal, fish meal, and fish oil for omega fatty acids
  • Suitable for sensitive stomachs as it is free from corn, wheat, and soy
  • Grain-free
Cons
  • May be more expensive than other brands
  • Packaging may vary
  • Kibble size may not be suitable for all puppies

4. Merrick Classic Healthy Grains Puppy Dog Food

Merrick Classic Healthy Grains DryView On Chewy
Merrick Classic Healthy Grains Puppy Dog Food is a top-rated choice for husky puppies. It’s made with real, deboned chicken as the first ingredient, and it’s crafted with a holistic blend of whole grains like oats to aid in healthy digestion.

The recipe is free from potato, corn, and soy, making it suitable for puppies with sensitive digestion. It’s also pea-free, which is beneficial for huskies who may be prone to dilated cardiomyopathy associated with legumes.

The food is high in protein and contains glucosamine and chondroitin to support hip and joint function, as well as omega fatty acids for healthy skin and coats.

Best For: Husky puppies with sensitive digestion.

Pros
  • Made with real chicken as the first ingredient
  • Ancient grains like quinoa aid digestion
  • High levels of omega fatty acids promote healthy skin and coats
  • DHA supports brain development
  • Glucosamine and chondroitin support hip and joint function
  • No potatoes, peas, or lentils
Cons
  • Some dogs may not like the taste
  • May cause diarrhea in some dogs

5. Nutro Natural Choice Large Breed Puppy Food

Nutro Natural Choice Large BreedView On Chewy
Nutro Natural Choice Large Breed Puppy Food is a high-quality option for husky puppies. It’s made with real chicken as the first ingredient and contains omega-3 fatty acids like DHA to support brain and eye development.

The food is also formulated with natural sources of glucosamine and chondroitin for healthy joints and provides essential antioxidants for a healthy immune system.

Nutro Natural Choice Large Breed Puppy Food is non-GMO and doesn’t contain chicken by-product meal, corn, wheat, or soy. It’s recommended for large breed puppies up to 18 months old.

Best For: Large breed puppies up to 18 months old.

Pros
  • Made with real chicken as the first ingredient
  • Contains omega-3 fatty acids like DHA for brain and eye development
  • Natural sources of glucosamine and chondroitin for healthy joints
Cons
  • May be too high in fiber for some dogs
  • More expensive than other brands
  • Contains molasses

6. Instinct Original Puppy Grain Free Chicken Wet Dog Food

Instinct Original Puppy Grain-Free RealView On Chewy
When choosing a meal for your husky puppy, consider Instinct Original Puppy Grain Free Chicken Wet Dog Food. This choice checks all the boxes for a growing pup’s diet.

It’s packed with real chicken as the first ingredient, ensuring your furry friend gets the high-quality protein necessary for muscle development. Plus, it’s grain-free, avoiding common allergens that could upset your pup’s tummy.

The addition of natural DHA aids brain and eye health, essential for your husky’s adventurous spirit. With no grains, potatoes, or artificial nasties, it’s a clean, wholesome option.

Best For: Growing husky puppies seeking a high-protein, grain-free diet.

Pros
  • Real chicken as first ingredient for muscle development
  • Grain-free to avoid allergens
  • Natural DHA for brain and eye health
Cons
  • Not suitable for large dog breeds (70lbs or more as an adult)
  • May be more expensive than other brands
  • Loaf texture may not be appealing to all puppies

7. Nulo Freestyle Salmon Grain-Free Dog Food

Nulo Freestyle Limited+ Salmon RecipeView On Chewy
Nulo Freestyle Salmon Grain-Free Dog Food is a superb selection for huskies seeking a premium, grain-free alternative. This dog food showcases salmon as the primary ingredient and sole meat source, delivering a minimum of 30% crude protein for a comprehensive and balanced diet.

It’s also devoid of potatoes or tapioca, rendering it appropriate for canines with dietary sensitivities or allergies. However, it’s pertinent to mention that certain dogs may not find the flavor palatable, and some may experience flatulence.

Furthermore, it incurs a higher cost compared to other brands.

Best For: Huskies seeking a premium, grain-free alternative with a single meat source.

Pros
  • Single animal protein formula with salmon as the only meat source
  • 30% crude protein for a complete and balanced diet
  • GanedenBC30 probiotics for gut and immune health
Cons
  • Pricey compared to other brands
  • Some dogs may not like the taste
  • Some dogs may experience gas

8. American Journey Chicken Vegetable Grain-Free Dog Food

American Journey Stews Chicken &View On Chewy
American Journey Chicken Vegetable Grain-Free Dog Food is a high-quality option for huskies. It features deboned chicken as the first ingredient, providing a high-quality protein source to support lean muscles.

The recipe also includes vegetables like sweet potatoes and blueberries, which offer important antioxidants and fiber for your furry friend’s health. This grain-free formula is suitable for dogs with grain allergies, and it’s produced in the United States.

Additionally, American Journey offers a variety of protein sources, including chicken, salmon, turkey, lamb, and beef, to cater to different dietary needs. The recipes are designed to suit dogs at all life stages, with options for puppies, adults, and seniors.

The brand also offers limited-ingredient recipes to help dogs with sensitive stomachs.

Best For: Huskies looking for a grain-free option with high-quality protein.

Pros
  • Deboned chicken as the first ingredient
  • Balanced omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids
  • No corn, wheat, or soy ingredients
Cons
  • May not be affordable for all customers
  • Some customers have reported receiving dented cans
  • Produced in a facility that also processes grains

9. Acana Wild Atlantic Grain Free Dog Food

ACANA Wild Atlantic Grain-Free DryView On Chewy
Ready to provide your Siberian Husky with optimal nourishment? Let’s delve into the Acana Wild Atlantic Grain Free Dog Food, a highly recommended choice for your beloved canine companion. This dog food revolutionizes pet nutrition, featuring premium ingredients tailored to your Husky’s specific requirements.

Primarily, the Acana Wild Atlantic Grain Free Dog Food consists of 70% animal components, guaranteeing that your Husky receives the essential protein for muscular, cutaneous, and fur well-being. Its grain-free formulation is beneficial for Huskies that may experience sensitivities to grains. Moreover, it incorporates up to 30% fruits, vegetables, and nutrients, ensuring a well-rounded diet rich in vital vitamins and minerals.

However, what truly distinguishes this dog food is its freeze-dried coating, which not only enhances flavor but also includes probiotics and fiber to support digestive health. It’s well-established that a healthy digestive system is fundamental for your Husky’s general well-being.

Recognizing that Huskies can be discerning eaters, it’s noteworthy that this dog food is appropriate for all life stages and breeds. Additionally, if your Husky engages in high-intensity activities, this high-protein recipe will provide the energy required to sustain their active lifestyle.

Best For: Siberian Huskies and other dogs with high protein and digestive health needs

Pros
  • High protein content (70%) from animal ingredients
  • Grain-free formula with up to 30% fruits, vegetables, and nutrients
  • Freeze-dried coating with probiotics and fiber for digestive health
Cons
  • May be more expensive than other dog foods
  • New formula includes whole mackerel, which may not be preferred by all dogs
  • Packaging and freshness may have declined after a recent sellout

10. Nature’s Logic Lamb Feast Grain-Free Canned Dog Food

NatureView On Chewy
Nature’s Logic Lamb Feast Grain-Free Canned Dog Food is a high-quality, all-natural pet food that’s a great option for huskies. It’s made with 95% animal ingredients, including nutrient-dense lamb meat as the first ingredient.

This canned food is rich in nutrients that support immune health, joint health, and enhance nutrient absorption, making it a perfect supplement to dry kibble. It’s also grain-free, gluten-free, and provides complete and balanced nutrition for all life stages, except for their canned Sardine and Beef Tripe, which are for supplemental feeding only.

The Lamb Meal Feast variety is highly recommended for picky eaters, as it provides a boost of flavor to dry kibble.

Best For: Huskies looking for a high-quality, all-natural pet food.

Pros
  • Contains 95% animal ingredients, including nutrient-dense lamb meat as the first ingredient
  • Rich in nutrients that support immune health, joint health, and enhance nutrient absorption
  • Grain-free, gluten-free, and provides complete and balanced nutrition for all life stages
Cons
  • May be too expensive for some budgets
  • Some dogs may not like the taste
  • Not available in all stores

Choosing the Right Dog Food for Huskies

Choosing the Right Dog Food for Huskies
When selecting the appropriate dog food for your husky, it’s crucial to take into account their age and activity level. Puppies demand higher protein and fat content to facilitate rapid growth, while adult huskies require a diet specifically designed to meet their energy-intensive lifestyles.

Age

Selecting the appropriate husky puppy nutrition is akin to traversing a labyrinth, where labels denoting puppy versus adult and senior versus puppy serve as your guiding stars. As your husky progresses from an energetic juvenile to a mature adult, its nutritional requirements must adapt accordingly.

Weight control becomes paramount, particularly for larger breeds. Bear in mind that the optimal husky puppy diet serves as the cornerstone for a lifetime of well-being.

Activity Level

As a Husky owner, you comprehend that your furry companion necessitates a high-calorie regimen to sustain their vigor levels. Huskies are renowned for their stamina and elevated activity levels, dictating the need for a dietary plan that caters to their singular nutritional requirements. Here are some pointers on how to select the optimal dog food for your Husky based on their activity level:

  1. High-calorie diet: Huskies necessitate a dietary plan that delivers between 40 to 60 calories per pound of body weight daily for active adults. This translates to a 50-pound Husky requiring an intake of 2,000 to 3,000 calories per day.
  2. Weight management: It’s imperative to keep a watchful eye on your Husky’s weight and adjust their diet accordingly. Overindulgence can culminate in obesity, potentially leading to health complications such as joint issues and diabetes.
  3. Consider supplements: In the event that your Husky isn’t deriving sufficient nutrients from their diet, you may contemplate incorporating supplements such as omega-3 fatty acids for the well-being of their coat and joints.
  4. Exercise requirements: Huskies are inherently active canines and require ample exercise to maintain their health and vitality. Ensure that their dietary plan provides the requisite energy for their daily activities.
  5. Choose high-quality ingredients: Opt for dog foods that incorporate high-quality protein, wholesome fats, and complex carbohydrates to sustain your Husky’s energy levels and overall well-being.

Nutritional Requirements for Huskies

Nutritional Requirements for Huskies
As an active breed, huskies require a diet high in protein and fat to fuel their energetic lifestyle. To guarantee your husky stays healthy and happy, it’s important to select a dog food that meets their specific nutritional needs.

Protein

As a husky owner, you want to make certain that your furry companion is getting the appropriate amount of protein to maintain lean muscle mass and energy levels. Huskies are lively dogs that require a specialized diet to support their active lifestyle. Research on endurance huskies found that they needed between 24 and 32 percent protein to sustain healthy red blood cells and maintain muscle mass. Here are some tips on how to select the appropriate protein sources for your husky’s diet:

  1. Look for high-quality protein sources: Choose foods that list real animal protein as the first ingredient, such as chicken, turkey, beef, or fish.
  2. Check the amino acid profile: Ensure that the protein sources in your husky’s food contain all the essential amino acids needed for muscle growth and energy metabolism.
  3. Consider the protein content: Huskies need a high-protein diet, so look for foods with a protein content of at least 24% for adult dogs and 22% for puppies.
  4. Avoid fillers and by-products: Some protein sources, like meat by-products or poultry by-products, may not provide the necessary nutrients for your husky’s needs and can even harm their health.
  5. Consider your husky’s activity level: If your husky is highly active, they may require even more protein to maintain their energy levels.

Fat

Fat is an indispensable nutrient for huskies, supplying energy and facilitating the absorption of fat-soluble vitamins and vital fatty acids. Here are five significant points about fat in husky dog food:

  • Fat absorption: Huskies require fat for energy and nutrient absorption.
  • Fat utilization: Fat is utilized by huskies for insulation and temperature regulation.
  • Omega-3 content: Fatty acids such as omega-3 promote skin and coat health.
  • Fat-soluble vitamins: Fat assists huskies in absorbing vitamins A, D, E, and K.
  • Essential fatty acids: Huskies need omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids for ideal health.

When selecting dog food for huskies, consider the fat content, soluble fiber, and crude fiber to guarantee a balanced diet. AAFCO guidelines offer a framework for nutritional requirements.

Ingredient Considerations for Husky Dog Food

Ingredient Considerations for Husky Dog Food
When selecting the most suitable dog food for your Husky, seek out products crafted with ingredients suitable for human consumption and devoid of any artificial additives or flavorings. These superior, minimally processed choices will contribute to your Husky receiving the ideal nourishment to underpin their general health and well-being.

Human Grade

Human-grade dog food is manufactured to the same safety and quality benchmarks as those found in the FDA and USDA regulations for human food. To be deemed human-grade, all constituents must be suitable for human ingestion, and every constituent and finished product must be stored, handled, processed, and transported in a manner consistent and compliant with current good manufacturing processes for human edible products. The production facility must also be authorized to produce human food by the relevant authority, such as local, county, or state public health entities.

Opting for a human-grade dog food can provide peace of mind for pet owners who seek to feed their dogs with the same degree of quality as human food. It also allows for transparency in knowing precisely which constituents are included in the food, which is significant for dogs with sensitive stomachs or allergies.

When selecting a human-grade dog food, it’s imperative to verify that the manufacturer adheres to the AAFCO and USDA guidelines for human-grade labeling. Some examples of human-grade dog food brands include The Farmer’s Dog, Nom Nom Now (owned by Mars), Open Farm, and Spot Farms.

Incorporating human-grade dog food into your husky’s diet can contribute to their overall health and well-being, as it’s manufactured to the same safety and quality standards as human food. It’s important to note that not all dog foods are human-grade, and it’s essential to confirm that the human-grade dog food you choose meets all of AAFCO’s standards.

No Additives or Artificial Flavoring

Just like you wouldn’t want a diet filled with junk, your husky thrives best on food without additives or artificial flavoring. Steering clear of these unnecessary extras means you’re giving your furry friend a meal that’s as close to nature as possible. Think of it as choosing a farm-to-table meal over fast food.

Even prescription vet diet companies like Purina Pro Plan Vet Diet are catching on, offering options with no additives, ensuring your husky gets only what they need to stay healthy and happy.

Husky Dietary Needs and Concerns

Husky Dietary Needs and Concerns
As a husky owner, it’s important to be mindful of potential allergies and sensitivities your pup may have. Additionally, maintaining a healthy weight is essential for huskies, as their high-energy nature can lead to overeating if not properly managed.

Allergies and Sensitivities

If your Siberian Husky is suffering from allergies or sensitivities, there are several steps you can take to help them feel more comfortable. First, consider a hypoallergenic dog food, such as Jiminy’s Cricket Crave or Good Grub dog food, which can help alleviate symptoms in many cases. Additionally, you may want to try a limited-ingredient diet, like Diamond Naturals Light kibble, which is suitable for weight management and fiber needs.

To further support your Husky’s diet, you can also consider incorporating dietary supplements like Perfect Form and probiotics, which can help improve digestion and overall health. If your Husky has a sensitivity to certain ingredients, you may need to perform elimination trials to identify the trigger and adjust their diet accordingly.

In some cases, allergies may be triggered by environmental factors, such as pollen, mold spores, or dust. To minimize exposure, keep your home clean and consider using air purifiers in specific rooms. If your Husky has a food allergy, you may need to consult with a veterinarian to determine the best course of action, which could include switching to a different protein source or a specialized diet.

In addition to dietary changes, you can also try introducing foods high in omega-3 fatty acids and insoluble fiber, such as pumpkin or sweet potatoes, to help support your Husky’s digestive health. If your Husky is prone to diarrhea, consider rotating their diet to strengthen their gut and avoid foods that they can’t tolerate.

Weight Management

Regarding weight management for your husky, analyzing fiber content is critical. High-calorie diets can be balanced with grain-free alternatives. Switching to new foods should be done gradually, and store-bought dog food might not always be the optimal choice.

Examine Hills Science Diet WD for fiber requirements. Diamond Naturals Light kibble can be a good option for weight control. Purina Pro Plan En Gastroenteric Fiber Balance™ Canine Vet Formula is another option rich in fiber.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

What are the top 5 best dog foods for huskies?

Begin a dietary adventure specifically designed for your husky! Prime choices include delectable Orijen, wholesome Instinct, balanced Nulo, hearty American Journey, and premium Acana – nourishing leaders for your canine friend‘s vibrant well-being.

How often should huskies be fed to maintain ideal weight?

To maintain your husky’s ideal weight, feed them twice daily and adjust portions based on their age, activity level, and body condition. Monitor their weight closely and make gradual changes to their diet as needed.

What are the 5 most common food allergies in huskies?

The top 5 food allergies in huskies are beef, dairy, wheat, chicken, and soy. Avoid these ingredients and opt for limited-ingredient diets with novel proteins to prevent allergic reactions in your husky.

How much protein should an adult husky consume daily?

An adult Husky needs around 18-24% protein daily to maintain muscle mass and energy levels. That’s 360-480 calories from protein for a 50-pound Husky! Get the right balance for your active pup.

What are the best sources of omega-3 fatty acids for huskies?

To boost your Husky’s coat and brain health, reach for omega-3-rich foods like salmon, sardines, and krill oil. These healthy fats promote a shiny coat and support cognitive function.

Conclusion

Undoubtedly, selecting the optimal dog food for your active Husky is paramount to their overall well-being. By choosing a nutrient-rich formula that meets their unique nutritional demands, you can power your pup’s energetic lifestyle and ensure their vitality.

Remember to take into account their age, activity level, and any potential allergies or sensitivities when determining the top dog food for Huskies in 2024.

With the right nutrition, your Husky will be happy, healthy, and brimming with vitality.

References
  • k9ofmine.com
  • dogfoodadvisor.com
  • mypetneedsthat.com
  • animalso.com
  • dogloversdigest.com
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.