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Choosing the best food for mixed breed dogs involves considering their individual needs, size, age, activity level, and any specific health concerns.
It’s always a good idea to consult with your veterinarian to tailor the diet to your dog’s unique requirements. However, here are some general guidelines for selecting a balanced and nutritious diet for mixed breed dogs.
Dogs, in general, need a diet with adequate protein for muscle maintenance and overall health. Look for a dog food that lists a high-quality source of animal protein (chicken, beef, lamb, fish) as the main ingredient.
Ensure that the dog food provides a balance of essential nutrients, including proteins, fats, carbohydrates, vitamins, and minerals. Look for a complete and balanced formula that meets the standards set by organizations like the Association of American Feed Control Officials (AAFCO).
Choose dog foods with whole, natural ingredients. Avoid products with excessive fillers, artificial preservatives, colors, and flavors. Whole grains and vegetables can contribute to a well-rounded diet.
Puppies, adults, and senior dogs have different nutritional needs. Select a dog food formula appropriate for your dog’s life stage.
If your dog has known allergies or sensitivities, choose a dog food that avoids those specific ingredients. Common allergens include wheat, corn, soy, and certain protein sources.
Omega-3 fatty acids, found in ingredients such as fish oil, can promote a healthy coat and skin and support overall well-being.
Be mindful of portion sizes. Adjust the amount of food based on your dog’s weight, activity level, and overall health. Overfeeding can lead to weight issues.
Remember that individual dogs may have different dietary needs, so it’s essential to observe your dog’s response to a particular food and make adjustments as needed. Consulting with your veterinarian will help ensure that your mixed breed dog receives the best possible nutrition based on their unique characteristics and health requirements.
See our recommendations below of the best foods for mixed breed dogs; along with some advice and guidelines to help you decide when choosing the right mixed breed dog for your family pet.
Best Food for Mixed Breed Dogs April 2024
Here are The Dog Food Advisor's best dog food brands for mixed breed dogs for April 2024.
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1. The Farmer's Dog Turkey Recipe
The Farmer’s Dog Turkey Recipe received the Dog Food Advisor’s second highest rating: 4.5 stars.
It is one of 4 recipes in this product range made by The Farmer’s Dog.
The Farmer’s Dog Turkey Recipe derives the bulk of its protein from turkey.Dry matter label analysis reveals a fresh recipe containing 33.3% protein, 18.8% fat and 39.9% carbohydrates . . . with a fat-to-protein ratio of 56%.
Real food, made fresh. This food provides dogs with an excellent source of quality protein.
Highly recommended.
Read our review of the full The Farmer’s Dog Food (Fresh) range here
Things we like
- Human-grade
- Fresh food
- Simple personalized recipes
- Eco-friendly packaging
Main Ingredients Turkey, chickpeas, carrots, broccoli, spinach Type Fresh Protein Percentage 33.3% AAFCO Standards All Life Stages Best For Puppies, dogs and senior dogs Sample buyer review...
Read more buyer reviews at The Farmer's Dog"My dog LOVES the food and I love the convenience and nutritional value. "
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2. Ollie Chicken Dish with Carrots
Ollie Chicken Dish with Carrots received the Dog Food Advisor’s highest rating: 5 stars.
It is one of 5 recipes in this product range made by Ollie.
Ollie Chicken Dish with Carrots derives the bulk of its protein from chicken.
Dry matter label analysis reveals a dry recipe containing 30.8% protein, 11.5% fat and 49.7% carbohydrates . . . with a fat-to-protein ratio of 38%.
100% human-grade and using natural, high-quality ingredients.
Highly recommended.
Read our review of the full Ollie Dog Food (Fresh) range here
Things we like
- Human-grade
- Fresh food
- Personalized recipes
- No filler or artificial flavors
Main Ingredients Chicken, rice, carrots, chicken livers, peas Type Fresh Protein Percentage 30.8% AAFCO Standards All Life Stages Best For Puppies, dogs and senior dogs Sample buyer review...
Read more buyer reviews at Ollie"My dog, Beau, loves Ollie! He's got more energy and has lost some weight! He likes the variety of food instead of the same food everyday! High quality of food."
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3. Redbarn Whole Grain Ocean Recipe
Redbarn Whole Grain Ocean Recipe received the Dog Food Advisor’s highest, rating: 5 stars.
It is one of 3 recipes in this product range made by Redbarn.
Redbarn Whole Grain Ocean Recipe derives the bulk of its protein from fish.
Dry matter label analysis reveals a fresh recipe containing 30% protein, 15.6% fat and 46.4% carbohydrates . . . with a fat-to-protein ratio of 52%.
First 5 ingredients are animal proteins and functional ingredients to support overall health.
Highly recommended.
Read our review of the full Redbarn Whole Grain Dog Food (Dry) range here
Things we like
- Human-grade
- Contains probiotics
- Natural protein sources
- No by-product meals
Main Ingredients Salmon, trout, salmon meal, ocean fish meal, menhaden fish meal Type Dry Protein Percentage 30% AAFCO Standards All Life Stages Best For Puppies, dogs and senior dogs Sample buyer review...
Read more buyer reviews at Redbarn"Just bought the 22lb ocean dog food and my boxer inhaled it. Her old food was really slow on the intake, sometimes not eating at all. So glad we changed to healthier food."
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4. Open Farm Harvest Chicken Rustic Stew
Open Farm Harvest Chicken Rustic Stew Recipe received the Dog Food Advisor’s highest rating: 5 stars.
It is one of 6 recipes in this product range made by Open Farm.
Open Farm Harvest Chicken Rustic Stew recipe derives the bulk of its protein from chicken.
Dry matter label analysis reveals a fresh recipe containing 44.4% protein, 27.8% fat and 19.8% carbohydrates . . . with a fat-to-protein ratio of 63%.
100% human-grade and sustainably sourced, healthy and nutritional ingredients.
Highly recommended.
Read our review of the full Open Farm Rustic Stews Dog Food range here
Things we like
- Human-grade
- Non-GMO fruits & vegetables
- 100% traceable ingredients
- TerraCycle packaging
Main Ingredients Humanely raised chicken, chicken bone broth, pumpkin, carrots, green beans Type Wet Protein Percentage 44.4% AAFCO Standards Adult maintenance Best For Adult and senior dogs Sample buyer review...
Read more buyer reviews at Open Farm"My dogs loved the Harvest Chicken Rustic Stew! What more can I say? If they are happy and eating healthy then I'm happy! "
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5. Nom Nom Beef Mash Recipe
Nom Nom Beef Mash Recipe received the Dog Food Advisor’s highest rating: 5 stars.
It is one of 4 recipes in this product range made by Nom Nom.
Nom Nom Beef Mash Recipe derives the bulk of its protein from beef.
Dry matter label analysis reveals a fresh recipe containing 34.8% protein, 17.4% fat and 39.8% carbohydrates . . . with a fat-to-protein ratio of 50%.
Nutrient-packed recipes, made with fresh, whole ingredients and gently cooked to preserve nutrients.
Highly recommended.
Read our review of the full Nom Nom Dog Food (Fresh) range here
Things we like
- Human-grade
- Fresh food
- Personalized recipes
- Vet developed
Main Ingredients Ground beef, russet potatoes, eggs, carrots, peas Type Fresh Protein Percentage 34.8% AAFCO Standards All Life Stages Best For Puppies, dogs and senior dogs Sample buyer review...
Read more buyer reviews at Nom Nom"Tula gets so excited when it's mealtime. She no longer has skin issues, her coat looks wonderful and her stools are the best they've ever been. I can't imagine ever feeding her anything but Nom Nom! "
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6. We Feed Raw Turkey Patty Recipe
We Feed Raw Turkey Patty Recipe received the Dog Food Advisor’s highest rating: 5 stars.
It is one of 6 recipes in this product range made by We Feed Raw.
We Feed Raw Turkey Patty Recipe derives the bulk of its protein from turkey.
Dry matter label analysis reveals a fresh recipe containing 49.2% protein, 25.4% fat and 17.4% carbohydrates . . . with a fat-to-protein ratio of 52%.
Human-grade, high-quality raw diets.
Highly recommended.
Read our review of the full We Feed Raw Dog Food (Raw Frozen) range here
Things we like
- Human-grade
- High-quality raw diet
- Personalized recipes
- No filler, no artificial colors or preservatives
Main Ingredients Turkey tails, turkey gizzards, turkey wings, turkey liver, WFR vitamin + mineral mix Type Raw Protein Percentage 49.2% AAFCO Standards All Life Stages Best For Puppies, dogs and senior dogs Sample buyer review...
Read more buyer reviews at We Feed Raw"I can't express just how happy it makes me to see Journey CHOW DOWN at meal time. I no longer worry if she's getting enough to eat or if she's getting the nutrients she needs. It makes my heart so happy to see her enjoying what she's eating"
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7. Jinx Salmon Brown Rice and Sweet Potato Recipe
Jinx Salmon Brown Rice and Sweet Potato Recipe received the Dog Food Advisor’s second highest rating: 4.5 stars.
It is one of 5 recipes in this product range made by Jinx.
Jinx Salmon Brown Rice and Sweet Potato Recipe derives the bulk of its protein from fish.
Dry matter label analysis reveals a fresh recipe containing 30% protein, 15.6% fat and 46.4% carbohydrates . . . with a fat-to-protein ratio of 52%.
Each recipe contains premium proteins like organic chicken or real salmon as the 1st ingredient along with plant superfood and patented probiotics.
Highly recommended.
Read our review of the full Jinx Dog Food (Dry) range here
Things we like
- Vet developed recipes
- No fillers or artificial preservatives
- Contains probiotics
- High-quality proteins
Main Ingredients Salmon, pearled barley, ground peas, turkey meal, brown rice Type Dry Protein Percentage 30% AAFCO Standards All Life Stages Best For Puppies, dogs and senior dogs Sample buyer review...
Read more buyer reviews at Jinx"My boy has colitis and skin allergies so I have to be very careful with what I get him. He’s been on jinx for 3 months now and loves it! He is eager to eat, never sniffs and leaves, always makes sure he takes a bite even as he’s passing the bowl (we free feed) . Anyway, the absolute best food I have found so far!"
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8. Dr. Marty Nature's Blend Essential Wellness Recipe
Dr. Marty Nature’s Blend Essential Wellness Recipe received the Dog Food Advisor’s second highest rating: 4.5 stars.
It is one of 6 recipes in this product range made by Dr. Marty
Dr. Marty Nature’s Blend Essential Wellness Recipe derives the bulk of its protein from turkey.
Dry matter label analysis reveals a fresh recipe containing 39.4% protein, 28.7% fat and 23.9% carbohydrates . . . with a fat-to-protein ratio of 73%.
A high-protein diet, minimally processed to preserve nutrients and free from artificial ingredients.
Highly recommended.
Read our review of the full Dr. Marty Dog Food (Freeze-Dried) range here
Things we like
- No artificial ingredients
- Limited ingredients
- Freeze-dried raw
- Minimal processing
Main Ingredients Turkey, beef, salmon, duck, beef liver, turkey liver Type Freeze-dried raw Protein Percentage 39.4% AAFCO Standards Adult maintenance Best For Adult and senior dogs Sample buyer review...
Read more buyer reviews at Dr. Marty"The first time I fed it to Sam he actually licked the wall behind his bowl in case there were any splashes! I use it as a topper with his regular food. He is an English cocker, an enthusiastic eater and I have to watch his weight! "
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9. Raised Right Adult Beef Recipe
Raised Right Adult Beef Recipe received the Dog Food Advisor’s highest rating: 5 stars.
It is one of 11 recipes in this product range made by Raised Right.
Raised Right Adult Beef Recipe derives the bulk of its protein from beef.
Dry matter label analysis reveals a fresh recipe containing 60.5% protein, 23.7% fat and 7.8% carbohydrates . . . with a fat-to-protein ratio of 39%.
Human-grade food. Each recipe is home cooked with limited ingredients and low in carbs.
Highly recommended.
Read our review of the full Raised Right Dog Food (Fresh) range here
Things we like
- Human-grade
- Fresh food
- Low in carbs
- Limited ingredients
Main Ingredients Beef, beef heart, carrots, beef liver, cranberries Type Fresh Protein Percentage 60.5% AAFCO Standards Adult Maintenance Best For Adult and senior dogs Sample buyer review...
Read more buyer reviews at Raised Right"Excellent… my chocolate labs have been eating a variety of food and love each one. I couldn’t be happier knowing I’m feeding a quality food for my girls.I see the difference in their health. Maddie is 14-15 yrs young & Josie is 7-8 yrs. Thank you all and many blessings"
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10. Spot & Tango Turkey and Red Quinoa Recipe
Spot & Tango Turkey and Red Quinoa Recipe received the Dog Food Advisor’s highest rating: 5 stars.
It is one of 3 recipes in this product range made by Spot & Tango.
Spot & Tango Turkey and Red Quinoa Recipe derives the bulk of its protein from turkey.
Dry matter label analysis reveals a fresh recipe containing 44.2% protein, 19% fat and 28.8% carbohydrates . . . with a fat-to-protein ratio of 43%.
100% fresh, whole ingredients and are GMO and hormone free.
Highly recommended.
Read our review of the full Spot and Tango Dog Food (Fresh) range here
Things we like
- Human-grade
- Fresh fruit
- Simple personalized
- No artificial ingredients
Main Ingredients Turkey, red quinoa, eggs, spinach, carrots Type Fresh Protein Percentage 44.2% AAFCO Standards All Life Stages Best For Puppies, dogs & senior dogs Sample buyer review...
Read more buyer reviews at Spot & Tango"I feel good about feeding Spot and Tango to Buster. I don't have the time it takes to cook real food for him myself. Spot and Tango makes it easy, and Buster loves it! "
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11. JustFoodForDogs Fish & Sweet Potato Recipe
JustFoodForDogs Fish & Sweet Potato Recipe Recipe received the Dog Food Advisor’s highest rating: 5 stars.
It is one of 9 recipes in this product range made by JustFoodForDogs.
JustFoodForDogs Fish & Sweet Potato Recipe Recipe derives the bulk of its protein from fish.
Dry matter label analysis reveals a fresh recipe containing 38.9% protein, 11.1% fat and 42% carbohydrates . . . with a fat-to-protein ratio of 29%.
Gently cooked, whole ingredients & human-grade nutrition.
Highly recommended.
Read our review of the full Just Food for Dogs (Fresh) range here
Things we like
- Human-grade
- Fresh food
- No preservatives
- Ingredient transparency
Main Ingredients Wild Alaska pacific cod, sweet potatoes, potatoes, green beans, broccoli Type Fresh Protein Percentage 38.9 AAFCO Standards Adult maintenance Best For Adult & senior dogs Sample buyer review...
Read more buyer reviews at JustFoodForDogs"My dog is a fussy eater. She loves her meals now and gobbles it right up."
More Top Picks
To view more top dog foods by category… click the link below that best meets your personal feeding needs.
How to choose the best food for your mixed breed dog?
Mixed breed dogs come from a combination of different breeds which will obviously impact their size, characteristics and temperament.
When choosing a mixed breed dog for your family it is important to consider the following:
- Size: Consider the size of the dog and how well it fits into your living space and lifestyle. Mixed breed dogs can vary widely in size, even within the same litter.
- Energy Level: Assess the energy level of the dog and whether it matches your activity level. Some mixed breeds may be more active, while others are more laid-back.
- Temperament: Spend time with the dog to gauge its temperament. While there can be general breed tendencies, individual personalities can vary. Look for a dog whose temperament aligns with your preferences and lifestyle.
- Lifestyle Compatibility: Consider your daily routine and how well a dog would fit into your lifestyle. Some dogs require more exercise and mental stimulation, while others may be content with a more relaxed routine.
- Grooming Needs: Different mixed breeds can have various coat types, which can affect grooming requirements. Consider how much time and effort you are willing to dedicate to grooming.
- Health Considerations: Research the common health issues of the parent breeds. While mixed breed dogs can have hybrid vigor, it’s essential to be aware of potential health concerns and provide appropriate veterinary care.
- Training and Socialization: Evaluate the dog’s training and socialization needs. Some breeds may be more trainable or require more socialization to adapt well to different environments and situations.
- Age: Decide if you want a puppy, an adult dog, or a senior dog. Puppies require more time and effort for training and socialization, while older dogs may already have established behaviors.
- Adoption vs. Breeder: Consider adopting from a shelter or rescue organization. Many mixed breed dogs are in need of loving homes. If you choose to go through a breeder, ensure they are reputable and prioritize the health and well-being of the dogs.
- Family Dynamics: If you have a family, consider how the new dog will fit into the dynamics. Some breeds are known to be good with children, while others may be better suited for a single person or a couple.
- Allergies: If allergies are a concern, spend time with the dog to see if anyone in your household reacts adversely. Keep in mind that individual reactions can vary.
- Financial Commitment: Consider the financial responsibilities of dog ownership, including food, veterinary care, grooming, and other supplies.
Remember that each dog is an individual, and while breed characteristics can provide some guidance, the dog’s unique personality and experiences will shape its behavior. Take the time to get to know the dog, ask questions about its background, and consider how well it aligns with your expectations and lifestyle before making a decision.
