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Holistic Dog Food: Top 10 Brands for Healthy, Happy Pups for 2024

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holistic dog foodYou’re looking for a holistic dog food that provides complete, balanced nutrition from wholesome ingredients, right?

Holistic options like Diamond Naturals, Ziwi Peak, and Holistic Select are crafted for your pup’s overall health and well-being. They contain high-quality proteins, are easily digestible, and meet AAFCO nutrient profiles.

These foods support digestion, immunity, skin, and coat health.

When choosing, consider whole grain vs. grain-free, specific dietary needs, life stage, and activity level.

The benefits of switching to a holistic formula may surprise you as you discover the power of thoughtfully-sourced ingredients.

Table Of Contents

Key Takeaways

  • Holistic dog food is like a tailored suit for your pup – it fits their specific needs like a glove, providing complete and balanced nutrition from thoughtfully-sourced ingredients.
  • It’s not just about filling their belly; holistic formulas support your furry friend’s overall health and well-being, from a shiny coat to a sturdy immune system. Think of it as a one-stop shop for your canine’s wellness needs.
  • With so many options to choose from, finding the perfect holistic kibble for your pup is like a treasure hunt. But don’t worry; brands like Diamond Naturals and Ziwi Peak have got your back with high-quality proteins and nutrient-packed superfoods.
  • While holistic dog food may cost a pretty penny, it’s an investment in your furry companion’s long-term health. After all, a happy, healthy pup is worth their weight in gold (or at least premium dog treats).

Top 10 Best Holistic Dog Foods

For dogs to thrive, consider feeding them a holistic diet rich in quality proteins and nutrients.

The top 10 holistic dog foods this year include Diamond Naturals Chicken and Rice Formula, Ziwi Peak Beef Grain-Free Air-Dried Dog Food, Holistic Select Grain-Free Salmon, Anchovy, and Sardine, Earthborn Holistic Coastal Catch, Instinct Real Chicken and Brown Rice Dry Dog Food, Nature’s Logic Dog Food, Orijen Tundra Grain-Free, Wellness Core Grain-Free Turkey and Chicken Dog Food, Nutro Small Bites Lamb and Brown Rice Dog Food, and Rachael Ray Dog Food.

1. Diamond Naturals Chicken Rice Formula

Diamond Naturals Chicken & RiceView On Chewy
Diamond Naturals Chicken & Rice Formula is a premium holistic dog food that meets all the necessary requirements. It’s made with real cage-free chicken as the #1 ingredient, providing a substantial 26% protein and 16% fat to power your pup’s active lifestyle. Additionally, it’s enhanced with superfoods like blueberries and oranges, offering a nutrient-dense blend of antioxidants and prebiotics for ideal digestion and immune function. With no corn, wheat, or artificial additives, this holistic kibble will keep your furry friend happy and healthy.

Best For: All breed sizes and life stages of dogs.

Pros
  • Made in the USA with real cage-free chicken as the #1 ingredient
  • Rich in protein (26%) and fat (16%) for an active lifestyle
  • Superfoods (blueberries, oranges) provide antioxidants and prebiotics for optimal digestion and immune health
Cons
  • Out of stock everywhere
  • Some dogs experience skin irritation with other Diamond Naturals products
  • Large bag size can be challenging to handle

2. Ziwi Peak Beef Grain Free Air Dried Dog Food

ZIWI Peak Beef Grain-Free Air-DriedView On Chewy
Ziwi Peak’s Beef Grain Free Air-Dried Dog Food is a nutrient-dense option.

It contains 96% meat, organs, bone, and New Zealand green mussels.

Ethically sourced and free from grains, carbs, and fillers, it promotes mobility and health.

The single-protein recipe includes 10% superfood inclusions, making it suitable for all breeds and ages.

While pricier, Ziwi Peak prioritizes your pup’s well-being with its high-quality, natural ingredients.

Best For: Dogs of all ages and breed types looking for a nutrient-dense, grain-free diet.

Pros
  • High-quality ingredients (96% meat, organs, bone, and New Zealand green mussels)
  • Grain-free, nutrient-dense, and free from added carbs or fillers
  • Promotes mobility, vitality, and overall well-being
Cons
  • May be more expensive than other dog foods
  • Not available in all stores
  • May need to be rehydrated before feeding

3. Holistic Select Grain Free Salmon Anchovy Sardine

Holistic Select Adult & PuppyView On Chewy
You’ll want to contemplate Holistic Select’s Grain-Free Salmon, Anchovy & Sardine formula. Packed with high-quality proteins and omega fatty acids, it supports healthy skin, coat, and overall wellness. Plus, it’s free from grains, artificial preservatives, and fillers – making it a wise choice for pups with sensitivities. Your furry friend’s tail is sure to wag for this nutrient-dense, savory recipe.

Best For: Dogs with sensitive stomachs and allergies seeking a grain-free, nutrient-rich diet.

Pros
  • High-quality proteins and omega fatty acids for healthy skin, coat, and overall wellness
  • Free from grains, artificial preservatives, and fillers
  • Nutrient-dense and savory recipe
Cons
  • Some dogs may not like the smell or taste
  • May not be suitable for dogs with sensitive stomachs
  • Can cause gas and bloating in some dogs

4. Earthborn Holistic Coastal Catch

Earthborn Holistic Coastal Catch HerringView On Chewy
Earthborn Holistic Coastal Catch captures the essence of the sea with herring, salmon, and whitefish meals as its top ingredients.

This grain-free formula is crafted for all life stages, supporting lean muscle mass and a radiant coat.

The antioxidant-rich veggies boost your pup’s immune defenses. The balanced omegas guarantee a glossy coat.

With zero fillers, this holistic kibble nourishes your canine companion inside and out.

Best For: All life stages and all breed sizes, including puppies and seniors.

Pros
  • High-quality protein sources from herring, salmon, and whitefish
  • Grain-free and gluten-free formula
  • Contains essential nutrients for skin, coat, and immune system health
Cons
  • Some customers have reported changes in the formula and negative effects on their dogs
  • May be more expensive than other brands
  • Not all dogs may tolerate a grain-free diet

5. Instinct Real Chicken Brown Rice Dry Dog Food

Instinct Be Natural Adult RealView On Chewy
You want a food that energizes your pup while nourishing them from nose to tail?

Instinct’s Real Chicken & Brown Rice formula is a powerhouse of protein-rich, cage-free chicken and wholesome grains. With raw freeze-dried bites in every piece, it’s the closest thing to Fido chowing down on the real deal.

Plus, it’s packed with veggies, probiotics, and antioxidants to keep your furry friend feeling their absolute best.

Best For: Dogs of all ages and breeds who need a high-quality, grain-inclusive dry food with a raw boost.

Pros
  • Made with real, cage-free chicken as the first ingredient
  • Contains whole grains like brown rice and barley for sustained energy
  • Raw freeze-dried chicken bites provide a boost of nutrients and flavor
Cons
  • Bags may come ripped
  • Puppy recipe not available in 25 lb bag
  • May cause diarrhea in some dogs

6. Natures Logic Dog Food

NatureView On Chewy
You’ll love Nature’s Logic dry dog food – it’s 100% natural and highly palatable. The chicken meal from USA-raised chicken is the top ingredient, boosted with fruit and veggie concentrates. Plus, the kibble is coated in digestive enzymes for easy digestion. No chemically synthesized vitamins or fillers, just minimally processed, nutrient-rich goodness for your pup.

Best For: Dogs looking for a healthy, natural, and highly palatable dry dog food.

Pros
  • 100% natural formula with high-quality ingredients
  • Coated with digestive enzymes for easy digestion
  • Free of common allergens like corn, wheat, and soy
Cons
  • Expensive compared to other brands
  • May cause diarrhea in new dogs
  • Manufacturer does not make larger bags resealable

7. Orijen Tundra Grain Free

ORIJEN Tundra Grain-Free Dry DogView On Chewy
You want the best for your pup, and Orijen Tundra Grain-Free delivers. Packed with nutrient-rich, animal proteins like venison and arctic char, it mirrors your dog’s ancestral diet. With 85% quality proteins and no fillers, this kibble supports exceptional health. Plus, the grain-free formula makes it perfect for pups with sensitivities. Trust Orijen to fuel your four-legged friend’s vibrant life.

Best For: Dogs at all life stages, except for growing large breed dogs (70 lb. or more as an adult) with sensitive stomachs or allergies to chicken or beef

Pros
  • Nutrient-rich, animal-based ingredients mirror your dog’s ancestral diet
  • Grain-free formula is ideal for dogs with sensitivities
  • Supports exceptional health with 85% quality proteins
Cons
  • Kibble size may be too large for some dogs
  • Expensive compared to other dog foods
  • May not be suitable for dogs with chicken or beef allergies

8. Wellness Core Grain Free Turkey Chicken Dog Food

Wellness CORE Grain-Free Original DebonedView On Chewy
Wellness Core Grain Free Turkey Chicken Dog Food offers complete nutrition from real proteins and superfoods. Free from grains and meat by-products, this holistic formula fuels your pup’s peak health and performance.

The antioxidant-rich fruits and vegetables boost their immune system, while omega fatty acids from flaxseed and fish oil nourish their skin and coat.

Give your furry friend the gift of whole-body wellness.

Best For: Dogs who need a high-protein, grain-free diet.

Pros
  • Packed with protein for optimal health.
  • Supports a healthy coat and skin.
  • Promotes whole body health.
Cons
  • Expensive.
  • May not be suitable for dogs with certain allergies or sensitivities.
  • Overprocessed.

9. Nutro Small Bites Lamb Brown Rice Dog Food

Nutro Natural Choice Small BitesView On Chewy
Nutro Small Bites Lamb & Brown Rice Dog Food is specially crafted for your furbaby’s unique needs. This protein-rich recipe features real lamb as the #1 ingredient, providing the essential nutrients for strong muscles and healthy energy. The smaller kibble size is perfect for petite mouths, while the wholesome grains support digestion and immunity. Plus, it’s made with high-quality ingredients sourced from trusted farmers, so you can feel good about what you’re feeding your furry friend.

Best For: Dogs of all lifestages, particularly small and extra small breeds with sensitive digestion.

Pros
  • Real lamb as the #1 ingredient for strong muscles and healthy energy
  • Smaller kibble size for petite mouths
  • Wholesome grains for digestion and immunity
Cons
  • May be more expensive than other dog foods
  • Not suitable for dogs with severe allergies
  • Contains some artificial ingredients

10. Rachael Ray Dog Food

Rachael Ray Nutrish Natural ChickenView On Chewy
Rachael Ray’s nutrient-dense dog food is paw-fect for your furry friend’s overall health. It’s craf

Best For: Rachael Ray’s nutrient-dense dog food is perfect for dogs of all ages, breeds, and lifestyles who need a nutritious and balanced diet.

Pros
  • Made with real chicken and a hearty blend of vegetables
  • Added vitamins and minerals for optimal health
  • Free from grains, gluten, corn, wheat, soy, meat by-products, and fillers
Cons
  • Not available in all stores
  • May be more expensive than some other brands
  • Some dogs may be allergic to chicken

Benefits of Holistic Dog Food

Benefits of Holistic Dog Food
Holistic dog food offers complete and balanced nutrition to support your pup’s overall health and well-being. By providing essential nutrients, it aids in healthy digestion, boosts the immune system, and promotes a shiny coat and supple skin.

Complete & Balanced Nutrition

Holistic dog food provides complete and balanced nutrition for all life stages. Real ingredients, wholesome grains, and specific proteins meet AAFCO standards. Holistic dry and whole grain options nourish sensitive stomachs. Your pup gets the nutrients they need to thrive with holistic recipes.

Supports Digestion & Immune System

In addition to providing complete nutrition, holistic dog foods support your pup’s digestion and immune system. Here’s how:

  • Prebiotics and probiotics promote beneficial gut bacteria
  • Digestive enzymes aid nutrient absorption
  • High-quality proteins reduce allergies
  • Limited ingredient recipes minimize sensitivities
  • Grain-free options suit sensitive stomachs

Promotes Healthy Skin & Coat

Holistic dog food’s antioxidants and omega fatty acids promote healthy skin and coats. Grain-free options are ideal for pups with allergies, while whole-grain recipes aid digestion and immune function. All formulas meet AAFCO standards, ensuring your furry friend gets the nutrition they need.

What is Holistic Pet Food?

What is Holistic Pet Food
Holistic pet food is crafted to support your dog’s overall health and well-being. It contains high-quality proteins, wholesome ingredients, and essential nutrients that meet AAFCO standards for complete and balanced nutrition.

Crafted for Overall Health

So, what exactly is holistic pet food crafted for overall health? It’s thoughtfully designed to nourish your pup’s whole body, not just fill their belly. This means using high-quality, natural ingredients that work together to support your dog’s wellness, from nose to tail.

Quality Proteins & Ingredients

Holistic dog foods use quality ingredients like real animal proteins and wholesome grains. They’re free from fillers and artificial additives. Look for AAFCO certification to guarantee complete nutrition. Brands like Nom Nom, Wellness Core, and Nature’s Logic offer tasty, nutritious options for picky eaters.

Meets AAFCO Nutrient Profiles

In addition to using high-quality proteins and ingredients, the best holistic dog foods meet AAFCO nutrient profiles. This guarantees they provide complete and balanced nutrition for your pup. Look for brands like Diamond Naturals, Nutro Natural Choice, Rachael Ray Nutrish, and Nature’s Logic that adhere to these standards.

Holistic Puppy Food

Holistic Puppy Food
Regarding holistic puppy food, search for formulas designed for growing pups’ specific needs. The best choices offer a range of high-quality ingredients and nutrients, including taurine for heart health.

Tailored to Growing Puppies’ Needs

Holistic puppy food is designed to meet the unique requirements of growing pups. With a variety of high-quality ingredients and balanced nutrition, these recipes support your little buddy’s development. Choose from grain-free options packed with proteins, vitamins, and minerals for ideal puppy growth.

Taurine for Heart Health

Taurine is indispensable for your puppy’s heart health. Grain-free diets may lack this amino acid, so choose a holistic puppy food with sufficient taurine. Large breeds and senior dogs have unique nutritional needs, but all pups necessitate taurine for a strong, healthy heart.

Variety of Ingredients & Nutrition

You’ll want a puppy food specifically designed to meet their unique requirements, with different options available for growing pups with sensitive stomachs. Look for nutrient-rich recipes created to fulfill all their specific needs.

Holistic Dry Dog Food

Holistic Dry Dog Food
For dogs with diverse taste preferences, holistic dry dog foods offer a variety of protein sources like chicken, beef, and fish. These formulas also cater to dietary needs with both whole grain and grain-free recipes, ensuring complete and balanced nutrition suited to your furry companion’s requirements.

Whole Grain & Grain-Free Varieties

Regarding holistic dry dog food, you have choices: whole grain for high-quality nutrition, or grain-free for pups with grain allergies or sensitivities. Both meet AAFCO standards, but grain-free may lack some nutrients grains provide. Consider your dog’s digestive needs, taste preferences, and life stage when choosing the right formula.

Variety of Proteins for Different Taste Buds

With holistic dry dog food, you’ll find a variety of high-quality ingredients and grain-free options to suit your pup’s palate and sensitive stomachs. From chicken and beef to salmon and turkey, these recipes cater to picky eaters while ensuring balanced nutrition. Experience the joy of a well-fed, healthy companion!

Choosing the Right Dog Food

Choosing the Right Dog Food
When selecting holistic dog food, you’ll want to weigh whether wet or dry food is better aligned with your pup’s dietary requirements and preferences. Additionally, assess whether whole grains or a grain-free formula is more suitable, considering any specific nutritional needs based on your dog’s breed, age, activity level, and health conditions.

Consider Wet Vs. Dry Dog Food

When choosing holistic dog food, consider wet vs. dry:

  • Kibble has lower moisture content but longer shelf life
  • Canned food is more convenient but requires refrigeration
  • Your pup’s dental health, hydration needs, and preference matter

Dry food stores easily but wet varieties mimic a natural diet. Evaluate your dog’s unique needs to make the best choice.

Whole Grain Vs. Grain-Free

You’ll want to mull over your dog’s potential grain allergies and digestive needs. Whole grain recipes offer high-quality nutrition, while grain-free options suit dogs with grain sensitivities, utilizing easily digestible proteins.

Specific Nutritional Needs

You’ll also want to think about your pup’s specific nutritional needs. Large breeds need glucosamine for joint health, while puppies require calcium for proper growth. Senior dogs may benefit from brain-boosting nutrients for cognitive function. The right holistic food caters to your dog’s age, breed, and activity level.

Ancient Grains Dog Food

Ancient Grains Dog Food
You should consider ancient grains dog food if your pup has a sensitive stomach or skin issues.

These formulas typically contain easily digestible grains like quinoa, chia, and oats that are packed with antioxidants and essential nutrients.

Earthborn Holistic’s Ancient Grains recipes, for example, are not only suitable for dogs with sensitivities but also fortified with taurine to support heart health.

Easily Digestible Grains

You’ll want ancient grains (chia, quinoa, flaxseed, oats) for their easy digestibility and whole nutrition – they’re gentle on sensitive stomachs while providing a balanced diet and digestive support.

Packed With Nutrition & Antioxidants

Ancient grains like chia, quinoa, and flaxseed pack a nutritious punch with antioxidants that support digestion, immunity, skin, and coat health. These easily digestible grains offer a delicious way to nourish your pup.

Suitable for Dogs With Sensitive Skin & Stomachs

Additionally, ancient grains are perfect for pups with sensitive skin or digestion issues, as they’re highly nutritious yet easy on the stomach.

Holistic Wet Dog Food

Holistic Wet Dog Food
For holistic wet dog food, you’ll want to look for options that have real animal sources listed as the first ingredients, ensuring your pup gets quality proteins. These recipes are crafted to support your dog’s overall health and well-being through balanced, nutrient-rich formulas.

Real Animal Sources as First Ingredients

For wet holistic dog food, look for real animal sources as the first ingredients. Some top options include:

  • Meat and organ proteins, like chicken, turkey, or beef
  • Alternative protein sources like duck, rabbit, or fish
  • Limited ingredient diets for sensitive pups

These wholesome, human-grade ingredients offer complete nutrition without fillers or by-products. Many brands also use organic, sustainably-sourced ingredients for added peace of mind.

Supports Whole-Dog Health & Well-Being

You’ll find holistic dog food brands that support whole-dog health and well-being. These foods prevent nutritional deficiencies by providing complete, balanced nutrition designed specifically for your pup’s life stage. While many are grain-free, affordable whole grain options exist for senior dogs or those with sensitivities. With quality ingredients and expert formulations, holistic foods keep your furry friend thriving.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

What are the benefits of holistic dog food?

You’ve likely wondered, "What’s the big deal?" Well, holistic dog food offers some enticing benefits. It provides balanced nutrition, aids digestion, and supports a healthy coat – leaving your pup looking and feeling their best. Plus, the high-quality ingredients give you peace of mind that your furry friend is getting the nutrients they need.

What is the best holistic dog food for dogs?

The best holistic dog food provides balanced nutrition using high-quality, natural ingredients. Consider your dog’s needs and read reviews before choosing a brand like Nom Nom or Diamond Naturals.

What is holistic pet food?

Holistic pet food is formulated with high-quality, natural ingredients to provide complete nutrition customized to your furry friend’s needs. It’s designed to support whole-body health without artificial additives or fillers. Look for trusted brands certified by AAFCO to ensure adequate nourishment.

What does holistic dog food mean?

Holistic dog food provides complete nutrition using high-quality, natural ingredients. It avoids fillers and prioritizes whole-food sources to promote overall canine health and well-being.

How long does holistic dog food last?

A staggering 68% of pet owners overlook expiration dates. Unopened, holistic dog food lasts 12-18 months. Once opened, it stays fresh 2-4 weeks, depending on the packaging – so check those "best by" dates to keep your pup happy and healthy.

Are holistic dog foods more expensive?

Yes, holistic dog foods are generally pricier than standard pet foods. While the quality ingredients justify the higher cost, you’re paying a premium for ideal nutrition designed specifically for your pup’s needs.

Can holistic food help with allergies?

Yes, holistic dog foods are formulated without common allergens like corn, wheat, and soy. This can help alleviate allergy symptoms for sensitive pups.

What ingredients should be avoided?

Let’s get down to brass tacks: when it comes to holistic dog food, you’ll want to avoid any artificial additives, fillers, or preservatives that could jeopardize your pup’s health.

Are there holistic options for senior dogs?

Yes, there are holistic senior dog foods with key nutrients like glucosamine for joint health and easily digestible proteins. Always consult your vet for age-appropriate recommendations.

Conclusion

Beginning the journey of holistic dog food reveals a world of wholesome nutrition customized for your pup’s overall well-being.

With a multitude of options, from ancient grains to grain-free varieties, you’ll find the ideal formula to nourish your furry companion‘s digestion, immunity, and radiant coat.

Embrace this thoughtful approach to pet care and witness the transformative power of holistic dog food in your happy, healthy pup.

References
  • k9ofmine.com
  • dogfood.guide
  • worlddogfinder.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.