What’s the best dog food that’s made with grain?
Due to the recent controversy over grain-free diets, many dog owners are today looking for the best dog foods that contain grain.
But not all grain-inclusive dog foods are created equal.
So, The Dog Food Advisor compiled a list of our most recommended brands that contain grain.
All the top picks below were selected because their recipes feature…
- Above-average meat content
- Limited plant-based protein
- Safe fat-to-protein ratios
- No toxic preservatives
- Moderate carb levels
- No anonymous meat
And they’re made by companies that meet The Advisor’s 9 guidelines for finding superior brands.
Best Dog Food with Grain
May 2023
Here are The Dog Food Advisor’s best grain-inclusive brands for May 2023.
Wellness Complete Health Dog Food
Wellness Complete Health Adult Lamb and Barley is one of 13 dry recipes included in our review of the Wellness Complete Health product line.
- First 5 ingredients: Lamb, lamb meal, oatmeal, ground barley, menhaden fish meal
- Type: With grain (oatmeal, barley, rice)
- Other recipes: Puppy, senior, small breed, large breed, toy breed, turkey, whitefish and more
- Price: $$
- See all 13 available recipes
This Wellness Complete Health adult formula derives the bulk of its animal protein from lamb and lamb meal. Dry matter label analysis reveals the recipe contains 27% protein, 13% fat and 52% estimated carbs… with a fat-to-protein ratio of about 50%.
A fully-balanced, grain-inclusive dog food. Highly recommended.
Sample buyer review… “So far so good, as both of my dogs love their new Wellness Complete Health Lamb & Barley. They have been on Wellness Original Grain Free for many years, but because of the recent scare on grain free food, I decided to change. So glad I did because their stools are firmer and both my rescued 12 yr old German Shepard/Malmute & 8 yr old Schipperke are very happy and energetic.”
Jinx Dry Dog Food
Salmon and Sweet Potato recipe is one of 4 dry recipes included in our review of the Jinx product line.
- First 5 ingredients: Salmon, pearled barley, ground peas, turkey meal, brown rice
- Type: Grain-inclusive (pearled barley, brown rice)
- Other recipes: Chicken, Salmon, and Grain-Free
- Price: $$$
- See all 4 available recipes
This Jinx recipe derives the bulk of its animal protein from fresh salmon. Dry matter label analysis reveals the recipe contains 30% protein, 16% fat and 46% estimated carbs… creating a fat-to-protein ratio of about 52%.
A fully-balanced, grain-inclusive dog food. Highly recommended.
Sample buyer review… “My dog loves it!! And her hair coat is more sunny now!! Thanks so much!!”
Ollie Fresh Dog Food
Lamb is one of 4 fresh human-grade recipes included in our review of the Ollie Dog Food product line.
- First 5 ingredients: Lamb, butternut squash, lamb liver, kale, rice
- Type: With grain (rice)
- Other recipes: Turkey, chicken, and beef
- Price: $$$
- See all 4 available recipes
This Ollie formula derives the bulk of its animal protein from fresh lamb. Dry matter label analysis reveals the recipe contains 38% protein, 27% fat and 27% estimated carbs… with a fat-to-protein ratio of about 70%.
If you’ve ever wished there was a way you could serve your pup a fresh, home-cooked meal… without all the fuss and hard work… then Ollie may be the ideal choice.
Ollie is an exceptional dog food that’s made with real, human-grade ingredients. It’s designed by a board-certified veterinary nutritionist (DACVN)… all making it worthy of its higher price.
A top, grain-inclusive option. Recommended with confidence.
Sample buyer review… “Leia has a sensitive tummy and used to not eat (or throw up) her dry kibble. She literally jumps for joy when we pull Ollie out of the fridge. What a huge difference Ollie has made in our dog’s life.”
Dr. Tim’s Dog Food
Dr. Tim’s Active Dog Pursuit Formula is one of 8 dry recipes included in our review of the Dr. Tim’s product line.
- First 5 ingredients: Chicken meal, brown rice, chicken fat, whole oat groats, dried beet pulp
- Type: With grain (rice, oats)
- Other recipes: Weight management, grain-free, athletic, fish formula and more
- Price: $$
- See all 8 available recipes
Dr. Tim’s Active Dog Pursuit derives the lion’s share of its animal protein from chicken meal. Dry matter label analysis reveals the recipe contains 33% protein, 22% fat and 36% estimated carbs… which results in a fat-to-protein ratio of about 67%.
A top option for active dogs and sporting breeds. Highly recommended.
Sample buyer review… “This food is really good for dogs. It is made by a veterinarian that is experienced in dog sports. It is great quality and my dog loves it as well (and he is picky). Good protein and fat levels for dogs that are more active compared to many foods on the market and the ingredients are really awesome too! So glad I made this purchase. Also, if you need to ask a question, Dr. Tim will often answer your personally, which is fantastic!”
Orijen Amazing Grains
Orijen Original is one of 5 dry recipes included in our review of the Orijen Amazing Grains product line.
- First 5 ingredients: Chicken, turkey, chicken liver, whole herring, whole mackerel
- Type: With grain (oat groats, millet)
- Other recipes: Puppy, puppy large, and more
- Price: $$$$
- See all 5 available recipes
Orijen Amazing Grains Original derives the largest share of its animal protein from fresh chicken. Dry matter label analysis reveals the recipe contains 43% protein, 20% fat and 28% estimated carbs… resulting in a fat-to-protein ratio of about 47%.
The first 5 ingredients of this “Original” recipe are all sourced from fresh animal protein. This formula also contains healthy DHA and EPA omega oils from whole herring, mackerel and pollock… for healthy skin and joints.
A classic, grain-inclusive design from Champion Petfoods. Enthusiastically recommended.
Sample buyer review… “So happy Orijen now has a grain option. My dog likes this even more than the grain free option. My vet recommended a diet that included grains and switch to other brands has been a challenge. Once we saw this though we immediately gave it a try since she used to love the grain free version. Our dog finishes her entire bowl every time!”
Canidae All Life Stages Dog Food
Canidae All Life Stages Chicken Meal and Rice is one of 5 dry recipes included in our review of the Canidae All Life Stages product line.
- First 5 ingredients: Chicken meal, brown rice, white rice, rice bran, cracked pearled barley
- Type: With grain (rice, barley, millet)
- Other recipes: Multi protein, lamb formula, large breed, less active recipe and more
- Price: $
- See all 5 available recipes
This Canidae All Life Stages dog food derives largest portion of its animal protein from chicken meal. Dry matter label analysis reveals the recipe contains 29% protein, 17% fat and 46% estimated carbs… which creates a fat-to-protein ratio of about 60%.
A fully-balanced, budget-friendly option. Ideal for dogs of differing ages and breed types. Highly recommended.
Sample buyer review… “I’m fanatical about the health of my animals. I research the food my dogs eat every 3 months for recalls and health issues. I also will not buy dog food if the ingredients are sourced from China. Through recent research, my other dog food was found to be causing congestive heart failure. I recently changed my dogs to this food and they are thriving with no issues.”
Annamaet Dog Food
Annamaet Original Extra is one of 8 dry recipes included in our review of the Annamaet product line.
- First 5 ingredients: Chicken meal, brown rice, sorghum, chicken fat, rolled oats
- Type: With grain (rice, sorghum, oats)
- Other recipes: Reduced fat, grain-free, puppy, senior, small breed and more
- Price: $$
- See all 8 available recipes
This Annamaet Original formula delivers the majority of its meat protein from chicken meal. Dry matter label analysis reveals the recipe contains 29% protein, 18% fat and 34% estimated carbs… creating a fat-to-protein ratio of about 63%.
A five-star, grain-inclusive recipe with containing a generous amount of meat protein. Highly recommended.
Sample buyer review… “This is my favorite food. The calcium level is appropriate for raising puppies of my large breed, it feeds our active adults who are running in competition, our pregnant and lactation ladies, and we reduce the quantity to feed to retired older dogs. We’ve been feeding a large number of dogs for well over 40 years, so have a lot of experience. In our experience, Annamaet Extra is the best food we’ve found.”
Iams ProActive Health Dog Food
Iams Proactive Health Lamb and Rice is one of 12 dry recipes included in our review of the Iams ProActive Health product line.
- First 5 ingredients: Lamb, chicken by-product meal, brewers rice, ground whole grain barley, ground whole grain corn
- Type: With grain (rice, barley, corn, sorghum)
- Other recipes: Large breed, puppy, mature adult, healthy weight, small breed and more
- Price: $
- See all 12 available recipes
This Iams ProActive Health recipe derives the largest portion of its meat protein from both fresh lamb and chicken by-product meal. Dry matter label analysis reveals the recipe contains 28% protein, 16% fat and 49% estimated carbs… which produces a fat-to-protein ratio of about 56%.
A solid choice for those looking for a time-proven, grain-inclusive brand with multiple flavor and formula options. Frequently mentioned by veterinarians and professional breeders.
Highly recommended.
Sample buyer review… “Delivered just as running out of smaller Iams trial bag. Both pups switched to Iams effortlessly and I noticed my golden retriever’s skin and coat issues are already looking much better. Great price on the 26 lb. bag, too. I am happy when pups are happy.”
Farmina N&D Ancestral Grain
Farmina N&D Adult Medium and Maxi is one of 13 dry recipes included in our review of the Farmina N&D Ancestral Grain product line.
- First 5 ingredients: Chicken, dehydrated chicken, whole spelt, whole oats, chicken fat,
- Type: With grain (spelt, oats)
- Other recipes: Lamb formula, fish recipe, puppy, mini breed, senior and more
- Price: $$
- See all 13 available recipes
This particular Farmina N&D formula derives the bulk of its meat protein from both fresh chicken and dehydrated chicken. Dry matter label analysis reveals the recipe contains 33% protein, 20% fat and 39% estimated carbs… producing a fat-to-protein ratio of about 60%.
Containing better quality, GMO-free ingredients… and meriting its slightly higher price. Recommended with confidence.
Sample buyer review… “I have a senior corgi with a very sensitive stomach. He was eating a very high quality grain free (which is what he needs) but after the scare with grain free foods I had been unsuccessful finding an alternative that did not upset his stomach. My doggy day care sent me home with some samples of this product. It has been a lifesaver. It has been two weeks since I finished transitioning him 100% to Farmina. No upset tummy and he is doing so well.”
Blue Buffalo Life Protection
Blue Buffalo Small Breed Adult is one of 21 dry recipes included in our review of the Blue Buffalo Life Protection product line.
- First 5 ingredients: Deboned chicken, chicken meal, brown rice, oatmeal, barley
- Type: With grain (rice, oatmeal, barley)
- Other recipes: Puppy, healthy weight, toy breed, large breed, fish recipe and more
- Price: $$
- See all 21 available recipes
This Blue Buffalo Life Protection formula gets the bulk of its animal protein from both fresh chicken and chicken meal. Dry matter label analysis reveals the recipe contains 29% protein, 17% fat and 46% estimated carbs… with a fat-to-protein ratio of about 58%.
A reasonably priced, grain-inclusive kibble, available in multiple flavor options… perfect for rotational feeding. Highly recommended.
Sample buyer review… “It is really nice to see the popularity of this food grow. To me, it seems a heightening of general awareness and concern regarding dog nutrition. I like that the grains in this are brown rice and oats as they seem to be most digestible. What I am also keen on is the fish meal and supplemental super foods. This particular formula was instrumental,in part, to my continuing exploration of dog foods. When I saw it shelved at a local grocery near inferior foods I was encouraged that more dogs may be living better.”
Nature’s Logic Dry Dog Food
Nature’s Logic Chicken Meal Feast is one of 11 dry recipes included in our review of the Nature’s Logic product line.
- First 5 ingredients: Chicken meal, millet, chicken fat, pumpkin seed, yeast culture
- Type: With grain (millet)
- Other recipes: Rabbit meal formula, beef meal recipe, duck and salmon meal, pork meal, and more flavors
- Price: $$$
- See all 9 available recipes
This Nature’s Logic formula derives the greatest share of its meat protein from chicken meal. Dry matter label analysis reveals the recipe contains 40% protein, 17% fat and 36% estimated carbs… resulting in a fat-to-protein ratio of about 42%.
Nature’s Logic is one of only a handful of brands that meets AAFCO nutrient guidelines using actual feeding trials. Not only is it made with grain, but it’s also free of legume-heavy ingredients.
Highly recommended.
Sample buyer review… “We’ve been feeding Nature’s Logic for about eight months now. The high protein content coupled with no legumes or potatoes won me over. After obsessive (I mean, extensive) research following the DCM scare, I chose Nature’s Logic as the best kibble option for Carlo. Because it’s so nutrient-dense, he gets about 2/3 cup every meal. One bag lasts approximately 11-12 weeks, which works out to roughly $6 per week. You can’t put a price on your dog’s health but if you had to, how can you beat that?”
Nutro Ultra Dry Dog Food
Nutro Ultra Small Breed Adult is an example of one of the 9 dry recipes included in our review of the Nutro Ultra product line.
- First 5 ingredients: Chicken, chicken meal, whole grain sorghum, whole grain oats, whole grain brown rice
- Type: With grain (sorghum, oats, brown rice)
- Other recipes: Large breed, puppy, weight management, senior and more
- Price: $$
- See all 9 available recipes
Nutro Ultra Small Breed Adult derives the lion’s share of its meat protein from both fresh chicken and chicken meal. Dry matter label analysis reveals the recipe contains 29% protein, 19% fat and 44% estimated carbs… producing a fat-to-protein ratio of about 65%.
A reasonably priced, nutritionally-balanced containing a healthy mix of healthy cereal grains. Highly recommended.
Sample buyer review… “We have three Maltese mix dogs ranging from 5 years to 7 months. Our 5 year old was starting to gain weight and moving slow like he was stiff and sore on the food we were using (Natures Recipe). After doing some research we came across the Nutro Ultra. We have used the Nutro hard dog treats for years and the dogs love them so we decided to give the food a try. The dogs love it and our oldest has started to slim down and be more active. No fillers and a great mix of meat and veggies. Enough calories and protein for small dogs without loading them down with a bunch of junk.”
Diamond Naturals Dry Dog Food
Diamond Naturals Adult Beef Meal and Rice is just one of 13 dry recipes included in our review of the Diamond Naturals product line.
- First 5 ingredients: Beef meal, grain sorghum, ground white rice, dried yeast, egg product
- Type: With grain (sorghum, rice, barley)
- Other recipes: Senior, large breed, small breed, puppy,
- Price: $
- See all 13 available recipes
This Diamond Naturals formula gets the bulk of its animal protein from beef meal. Dry matter label analysis reveals the recipe contains 28% protein, 17% fat and 48% estimated carbs… which produces a fat-to-protein ratio of about 60%.
A recent addition to our Best Budget-Friendly Dog Food list, this balanced, grain-inclusive design makes a top choice for those seeking exceptional value. Highly recommended.
Sample buyer review… “I recently transitioned my dog from the Diamond Naturals Puppy formula to the Adult food and have no complaints. He did not seem put off by it and eats it just as well as his puppy food. I did pick the same “flavor”, Lamb & Rice, so that may have helped him transition. He hasn’t experienced any type of upset stomach during his transition. Wonderful, high quality dog food at a great price! My dog’s coat is shiny and healthy, and he always gets a clean bill of health from my vet. I don’t feed any supplements, it’s all his dry food.”
Merrick Classic Dry Dog Food
Merrick Classic Healthy Grains Real Beef and Brown Rice is one of 13 dry recipes included in our review of the Merrick Classic product line.
- First 5 ingredients: Deboned beef, pork meal, brown rice, barley, oatmeal
- Type: With grain (rice, barley, oatmeal, quinoa)
- Other recipes: Chicken formula, lamb recipe, puppy, small breed, grain-free and more
- Price: $$
- See all 13 available recipes
This Merrick Classic formula derives the major share of its animal protein from both fresh beef and pork meal. Dry matter label analysis reveals the recipe contains 29% protein, 17% fat and 46% estimated carbs… producing a fat-to-protein ratio of about 58%.
As its name implies, this recipe is an excellent example of Merrick’s time-proven, “classic” designs… rich in meat and low in plant-based protein substitutes.
A nutritious, grain-inclusive kibble. Highly recommended.
Sample buyer review… “I spent days researching food for my dog. He is allergic to chicken and turkey and his stomach is so so sensitive. I’ve experienced with many food brands and they didnt work. This has worked wonders for him! He doesnt have rash or upset stomachs anymore. He loves the flavor! This lasts us way longer than other foods we have bought in the past. It’s high quality and works for our little sensitive pup.”
Eagle Pack Dog Food
Eagle Pack Original Chicken Meal and Pork Meal is one of 7 dry recipes included in our review of the Eagle Pack product line.
- First 5 ingredients: Chicken meal, pork meal, ground brown rice, dehulled barley, oatmeal
- Type: With grain (rice, barley, oatmeal)
- Other recipes: Lamb formula, large breed, puppy, reduced fat, small breed and more
- Price: $
- See all 7 available recipes
This Eagle Pack formula derives the bulk of its meat protein from both chicken meal and pork meal. Dry matter label analysis reveals the recipe contains 29% protein, 16% fat and 48% estimated carbs… creating a fat-to-protein ratio of about 54%.
Another quality, budget-friendly option from the maker of Wellness. Highly recommended… especially when you consider value.
Sample buyer review… “My Shih-tzu suffered horribly with skin issues, losing most of the hair on her tail. Eagle Pack was recommended to me and I gave it a try. In just 2 weeks I saw exceptional improvement in her skin and the hair on her tail was beginning to grow back. All four of my Shih-tzus love it, especially the small size.”
Taste of the Wild Ancient Grains Dog Food
Taste of the Wild Ancient Wetlands with Ancient Grains is one of 4 dry recipes included in our review of the Taste of the Wild Ancient Grains product line.
- First 5 ingredients: Duck, duck meal, chicken meal, grain sorghum, millet
- Type: With grain (sorghum, millet, barley, quinoa)
- Other recipes: Bison formula, fish recipe, lamb, and more
- Price: $$
- See all 4 available recipes
Taste of the Wild Wetlands derives the majority of its animal protein from fresh duck and both duck and chicken meals. Dry matter label analysis reveals the recipe contains 36% protein, 20% fat and 36% estimated carbs… which produces a fat-to-protein ratio of about 56%.
A new, grain-inclusive product line from one of the industry’s most popular brands. Highly recommended.
Sample buyer review… “I have a Border Collie who grazed on the lawn for the past 8 years because we believed the hype that Grain Free was best. Due to several allergies and the information that some animals need grains, we tried Taste of The Wild Ancient Prairie with Ancient Grains. She stopped grazing the lawn and her allergic reactions ceased. She also no longer wipes her butt on my carpet because her stool consistency has improved. I would highly recommend this food for any canine owner. I’m just sorry it took us so long to wise up. With the overall improvement in her health, we will continue to feed this food and will probably offer it to any future pets.”
Victor Purpose Dog Food
Victor Purpose Nutra Pro Active Dog and Puppy is one of 6 grain-inclusive recipes included in our review of the Victor Purpose product line.
- First 5 ingredients: Chicken meal, blood meal, whole grain millet, chicken fat, yeast culture
- Type: With grain (millet, sorghum)
- Other recipes: Senior, healthy weight, grain-free, sport dog, and more
- Price: $
- See all available recipes
Victor Nutra Pro derives the greater share of its animal protein from both chicken and blood meals. Dry matter label analysis reveals the recipe contains 42% protein, 20% fat and 31% estimated carbs… producing a fat-to-protein ratio of about 47%.
A budget-friendly, grain-inclusive option. Ideal for dogs of all ages and breed sizes. Highly recommended.
Sample buyer review… “I have five furry friends that LOVE this food! Three Australian Shepherds, a dachshund and a Golden Retriever. We breed Aussies we love this kibble for our females and pups it has all goods that my females need to strive at all stages. My golden has digestive issues and she does tremendous with this food. We are very pleased! Thank you Victor!”
Whole Earth Farms Dog Food
Whole Earth Farms Adult Recipe is one of 6 dry recipes included in our review of the Whole Earth Farms product line.
- First 5 ingredients: Chicken, chicken meal, rice, barley, pork meal
- Type: With grain (rice, barley)
- Other recipes: Puppy recipe, grain-free, wet formulas and more
- Price: $
- See all available recipes
This Whole Earth Farms selection derives most of its meat protein from both fresh chicken and chicken meal. Dry matter label analysis reveals the recipe contains 28% protein, 16% fat and 48% estimated carbs… producing a fat-to-protein ratio of about 56%.
An affordable option from the maker of Merrick. Highly recommended.
Sample buyer review… “Like a few other reviews here, this was one of the best dog foods I could find for my dog. It isn’t filled with unhealthy fillers that many other dog foods are, and it doesn’t have peas or lentils in it which are some of the main ingredients linked to heart disease in grain-free foods. My dog loves this, and I love it!”
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