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What’s the best dog food for Beagles?
Beagles are a breed of small to medium-sized dogs that were originally bred for hunting hare and rabbits.
They are known for their keen sense of smell and have a distinctive appearance with short coats, long ears, and a tail that often stands erect. They typically have a friendly and outgoing temperament, making them popular family pets.
When selecting a dog food for your beagle, it’s essential to consider their specific needs, including their age, activity level, and any health concerns they may have. Look for a high-quality dog food that contains a balanced blend of protein, carbohydrates, fats, vitamins, and minerals.
Beagles are active dogs that require a good amount of protein to support their energy needs and maintain muscle mass. Look for dog foods with high-quality animal protein sources like chicken, turkey, beef, or fish.
Healthy fats are important for a beagle’s skin and coat health, as well as for overall energy. Look for dog foods that contain sources of omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids, such as fish oil, flaxseed, or chicken fat.
Beagles can benefit from carbohydrates for energy, but it’s essential to choose whole grains such as brown rice, oatmeal, or barley over processed grains.
Beagles may have specific dietary needs based on their age and any breed-specific health concerns. Consult with your veterinarian to determine the best food for your beagle based on their individual needs.
You can also see our recommendations for the best dog food for Beagles, below, along with answers to some of the most frequently asked questions we get from our readers about this breed.
Best Dog Food for Beagles May 2024
Here are The Dog Food Advisor's best dog food brands for Beagles for May 2024.
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1. Nom Nom
Nom Nom Turkey Fare received the Dog Food Advisor’s highest rating: 5 stars.
It is one of four recipes in this product range made by Nom Nom.
This recipe derives the bulk of its protein from turkey. Dry matter label analysis reveals it contains 36% protein, 18% fat and 38% carbohydrates . . . resulting in a fat-to-protein ratio of about 50%.
Nom Nom fresh dog food’s nutrient-packed recipes are formulated by board-certified veterinary nutritionists using wholesome ingredients containing vital vitamins.
Read our review of the full Nom Nom Dog Food (Fresh) range here
Things we like
- Meals tailored for each dog
- Human-grade
- Premium proteins
Main Ingredients Ground turkey, brown rice, eggs, carrots, spinach Type Fresh Protein Percentage 36% AAFCO Standards Yes - All life stages Best For All dogs Sample buyer review...
Read more buyer reviews at Nom Nom"Our veterinarian has said she has never seen such healthy fur on a dog. This dog food is worth every penny. "
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2. Redbarn
Redbarn Air Dried Fish Recipe received the Dog Food Advisor’s highest rating: 5 stars.
It is one of three recipes in this product range made by Redbarn.
Redbarn Air Dried Fish derives the bulk of its protein from fish. Dry matter label analysis reveals the recipe contains 36% protein, 25% fat and 31% carbohydrates . . . resulting in a fat-to-protein ratio of about 69%.
This dog food is made with high-quality, simple ingredients and uses a slow cooking process to retain its nutritional value.
Read our review of the full Redbarn Air Dried Dog Food (Dry) range here
Things we like
- Free from artificial chemicals and preservatives
- Added vitamins and minerals
- Non-GMO ingredients
Main Ingredients Ocean fish, sunflower oil, dicalcium phosphate, miscanthus grass, coconut flour Type Dry Protein Percentage 36% AAFCO Standards Yes - All life stages Best For All dogs Sample buyer review...
Read more buyer reviews at Redbarn"My dog loves it.. Air Dried Fish Recipe Dog Food"
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3. The Farmer's Dog
The Farmer’s Dog Chicken Recipe received the Dog Food Advisor’s highest rating: 5 stars.
It is one of four recipes in this product range made by The Farmer’s Dog.
This recipe derives the bulk of its protein from chicken. Dry matter label analysis reveals it contains 46% protein, 34% fat and 12% carbohydrates . . . resulting in a fat-to-protein ratio of about 74%.
This brand uses only human-grade ingredients that are simple and fresh and each meal is formulated to meet the specific needs of the individual dog.
Read our review of the full The Farmer’s Dog Food (Fresh) range here
Things we like
- Free of artificial flavors
- USDA inspected kitchens
- Vet-developed formulas
Main Ingredients Chicken, brussels sprouts, chicken liver, bok‐choy cabbage, broccoli Type Fresh Protein Percentage 46% AAFCO Standards Yes - All life stages Best For All dogs Sample buyer review...
Read more buyer reviews at The Farmer's Dog"This healthier diet may cost a little more than the dried or canned food but it has saved me hundreds of dollars on vet bills."
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4. Ollie
Ollie Turkey Dish With Blueberries received the Dog Food Advisor’s highest rating; 5 stars.
It is one of five recipes in this product range made by Ollie.
Ollie Turkey Dish With Blueberries derives the bulk of its protein from turkey. Dry matter label analysis reveals the recipe contains 36% protein, 25% fat and 31% carbohydrates . . . resulting in a fat-to-protein ratio of about 70%.
This is a fresh premium range of dog food made up of recipes crafted by experts. They contain nutrient-dense ingredients that are slow-cooked at low temperatures for maximum nutrition.
Read our review of the full Ollie Dog Food (Fresh) range here
Things we like
- Fresh and whole ingredients
- Human-grade
- USDA-certified
Main Ingredients Turkey, butternut squash, turkey livers, oats, lentils Type Fresh Protein Percentage 36% AAFCO Standards Yes - All life stages Best For All dogs Sample buyer review...
Read more buyer reviews at Ollie"My dogs love the foods. Clean up the bowls every time!"
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5. We Feed Raw
We Feed Raw Lamb Patty received the Dog Food Advisor’s highest rating: 5 stars.
It is one of six recipes in this product range made by We Feed Raw.
This recipe derives the bulk of its protein from lamb. Dry matter label analysis reveals it contains 46% protein, 31% fat and 15% carbohydrates . . . resulting in a fat-to-protein ratio of about 68%.
These minimally processed raw meals are made from high-quality fresh ingredients that are highly digestible.
Read our review of the full We Feed Raw Dog Food (Raw Frozen) range here
Things we like
- Human-grade
- USDA-certified facilities
- Vet-formulated recipes
Main Ingredients Lamb, beef heart, beef liver, beef kidney, beef necks (with bone) Type Raw Protein Percentage 46% AAFCO Standards Yes - All life stages Best For All dogs Sample buyer review...
Read more buyer reviews at We Feed Raw"Because of his diet, Tucker has never been sick, never had allergies, and grows a beautiful, healthy coat."
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6. Open Farm
Open Farm Small Breed Grain-Free dog food receives the Advisor’s highest rating: 5 stars.
It is one of 21 recipes in this product range made by Open Farm.
This particular recipe derives the bulk of its protein from chicken. Dry matter label analysis reveals it contains 37% protein, 19% fat and 37% carbohydrates . . . resulting in a fat-to-protein ratio of about 50%.
Open Farm is a premium brand providing high-quality protein sources in its foods which also contain a mix of human-grade fruit and vegetables.
Read our review of the full Open Farm Grain-Free Dog Food (Dry) range here
Things we like
- 100% traceable ingredients
- Ethical sourcing
- No added antibiotics or hormones
Main Ingredients G.A.P. step 2 chicken, G.A.P. step 2 turkey, ocean menhaden fish meal, herring meal, chickpeas Type Dry Protein Percentage 37% AAFCO Standards Yes - All life stages Best For All dogs Sample buyer review...
Read more buyer reviews at Open Farm"He eats all of his food! Every time! Makes me so happy to see him so excited for breakfast and dinner time!"
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7. Canidae
Canidae ALS Chicken Meal and Rice received the Dog Food Advisor’s highest rating: 5 stars.
This recipe derives the bulk of its protein from chicken. Dry matter label analysis reveals it contains 29% protein, 15% fat and 48% carbohydrates . . . resulting in a fat-to-protein ratio of about 52%.
This dog food is nutrient-rich and made with premium proteins and farm-grown vegetables. It contains no fillers.
Read our review of the full Canidae All Life Stages Dog Food (Dry) range here
Things we like
- Responsibly sourced ingredients
- Vet-formulated recipes
- Rich in essential amino acids and fatty acids
Main Ingredients Chicken Meal, Barley, Peas, Chicken Fat, Brown Rice Type Dry Protein Percentage 29% AAFCO Standards Yes - All life stages Best For All dogs -
8. Taste of the Wild
Taste of the Wild Wetlands Formula received the Dog Food Advisor’s highest rating: 5 stars.
It is one of nine recipes in this product range made by Taste of the Wild.
This recipe derives the bulk of its protein from duck. Dry matter label analysis reveals it contains 36% protein, 20% fat and 36% carbohydrates . . . resulting in a fat-to-protein ratio of about 56%.
Taste of the Wild lists quality named meat sources as the first ingredient in this range of food. It also includes several nutritionally beneficial ingredients such as tomatoes and blueberries, which are both rich in fiber, vitamin C, and vitamin K.
Read our review of the full Taste of the Wild Dog Food range here
Things we like
- High level of good protein
- USDA-approved
- Contains probiotics
Main Ingredients Duck, duck meal, chicken meal, sweet potatoes, peas Type Dry Protein Percentage 36% AAFCO Standards Yes - Maintenance Best For Adult and senior dogs Sample buyer review...
Read more buyer reviews at Taste of the Wild"This is all I get for my dogs. They love the whole line. The perfect balance of nutrition and REAL dog food."
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9. Merrick
Merrick Grain Free Puppy Real Chicken recipe received the Dog Food Advisor’s highest rating: 5 stars.
It is one of 11 recipes in this product range made by Merrick.
Merrick Grain Free Puppy Real Chicken derives the bulk of its protein from chicken. Dry matter label analysis reveals the recipe contains 32% protein, 17% fat and 44% carbohydrates . . . resulting in a fat-to-protein ratio of about 54%.
All the recipes in this range use high-quality proteins and include fresh and whole fruit and vegetables that are locally sourced.
Read our review of the full Merrick Grain Free Dog Food (Dry) range here
Things we like
- Vet formulated
- USDA certified
- Nothing artificial added
Main Ingredients Deboned chicken, chicken meal, sweet potatoes, potatoes, peas Type Dry Protein Percentage 32% AAFCO Standards Yes - All life stages Best For All dogs Sample buyer review...
Read more buyer reviews at Merrick"I have been using Merrick for years with all of my dogs, they have all loved it! "
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10. Acana
Acana Regionals Meadowland received the Dog Food Advisor’s highest rating: 5 stars.
It is one of six recipes in this product range made by Acana.
Acana Regionals Meadowland derives the bulk of its protein from chicken. Dry matter label analysis reveals the recipe contains 38% protein, 19% fat and 35% carbohydrates . . . resulting in a fat-to-protein ratio of about 52%.
The recipes in this dog food are rich in high-quality protein and balanced with fresh fruit, vegetables and botanicals that are all responsibly sourced.
Read our review of the full Acana Dog Food (Dry) range here
Things we like
- Fresh or raw animal ingredients
- No artificial colors, flavors or preservatives
- Added probiotics
Main Ingredients Deboned chicken, deboned turkey, chicken liver, turkey giblets (liver, heart, gizzard), chicken meal Type Dry Protein Percentage 38% AAFCO Standards Yes - All life stages Best For All dogs Sample buyer review...
Read more buyer reviews at Acana"My dog really seemed to love this food. She can be a fairly picky eater and she gobbled this up. I like the fact it is a wholesome, biologically appropriate food that she seems to love. She had no problems digesting it. This has become her regularly purchased dog food."
More Top Picks
To view more top dog foods by category… click the link below that best meets your personal feeding needs.
Frequently Asked Questions
How big is a Beagle?
Beagles are a small to medium-sized breed of dog. On average, adult beagles typically weigh between 20 to 30 pounds (9 to 14 kilograms) and stand about 13 to 15 inches (33 to 38 centimeters) tall at the shoulder. However, there can be some variation in size depending on factors such as genetics, diet, and exercise.
Male beagles tend to be slightly larger and heavier than females, but both sexes generally fall within the same size range.
What temperament do Beagles have?
Beagles are usually very friendly and affectionate. They often enjoy being around people and can get along well with children and other pets when properly socialized from a young age. They have a strong sense of curiosity and love to explore their surroundings. They have a keen sense of smell and are often found with their noses to the ground, investigating interesting scents.
Beagles are known for their distinctive vocalizations, including baying, barking, and howling. They use their voices to communicate and to alert us to interesting scents or potential threats.
How much exercise do Beagles need?
Beagles are energetic dogs that require regular exercise to stay healthy and happy. As a general guideline, adult Beagles typically need about 30 to 60 minutes of physical activity each day. Engage your Beagle in interactive play sessions that stimulate both their body and mind. Games like fetch, tug-of-war, and hide-and-seek can provide mental and physical exercise.
What health conditions do Beagles have?
Some common health conditions seen in Beagles include:
Hip Dysplasia: This is a genetic condition where the hip joint doesn’t develop properly, leading to arthritis and mobility issues.
Cherry Eye: Cherry eye is a condition where the gland of the third eyelid prolapses, causing a red mass to protrude from the eye. It can require surgical correction.
Intervertebral Disc Disease (IVDD): IVDD is a spinal condition where the discs between the vertebrae degenerate or herniate, causing pain and potentially paralysis.
Hypothyroidism: This is a condition where the thyroid gland doesn’t produce enough thyroid hormone, leading to symptoms such as weight gain, lethargy, and skin issues.
Ear Infections: Beagles’ long, floppy ears can trap moisture and debris, making them prone to ear infections. Regular ear cleaning and maintenance can help prevent this.
Obesity: Beagles have a tendency to overeat and gain weight if their diet and exercise aren’t properly managed. Obesity can lead to various health issues, including joint problems and diabetes.
Glaucoma: Glaucoma is a condition characterized by increased pressure within the eye, which can lead to pain, vision loss, and even blindness if left untreated.
Regular veterinary check-ups, a healthy diet, appropriate exercise, and prompt medical attention for any concerning symptoms can help keep your Beagle healthy and happy throughout their life.
