The 10 Best Dog Foods Made in the USA In 2024
- July 29, 2023
- By Dr. Esther Martinez
Choosing the right dog food can be overwhelming. Many prefer dog foods made in the USA due to safety concerns with imported ingredients. Prioritize your furry friend's health with quality, locally sourced options.
If you are one of those dog owners, you will be pleased to know that BestForPets has compiled a list of the best dog foods made in the USA.
We understand that each dog has unique dietary requirements, which is why we've included options for every life stage and dietary preference.
Our evaluations are based on several factors: ingredient quality, nutrient content, and manufacturing practices. BestForPets has ensured that all dog foods on our list meet the highest standards of quality and safety.
Vet Approved
Reviewed & Fact - Checked by
Deborah R. Fletcher (DVM)
VeterinarianThe information provided is current and up-to-date, in line with the latest research conducted in the field of veterinary medicine.
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Product
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1
Hill’s Science Diet Dry Dog Food, Puppy
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2
Canidae Pure Limited Ingredient
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3
Purina Pro Plan High Protein
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4
Blue Buffalo Life Protection
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5
Natural Balance Ultra Premium Beef
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6
NUTRO NATURAL CHOICE Healthy Weight
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7
VICTOR Super Premium
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8
Diamond Naturals Adult Real Meat
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9
Stella & Chewy’s Freeze Dinner Patties
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10
Natural Balance Duck & Brown Rice
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Reviews
1. Hill’s Science Diet Dry Dog Food, Puppy, Chicken Meal & Barley Recipe
- Chicken meal, full grain wheat, cracked pearled barley are the main components.
- 25% protein content
- 15% fat content
- 374 calories per cup
If you are looking for high-quality dry food for your developing American Staffordshire Terrier puppy, consider Hill's Science Diet Chicken & Barley .
Although Hill’s sources ingredients from all over the world, they conduct frequent food safety checks to ensure the highest quality and safety standards.
This dry puppy food contains nutrients specially designed to support the healthy growth and development of young pups.
For example, DHA from fish oil helps with brain, eye, and bone growth, while antioxidants promote immune system support. It is also free from preservatives, artificial flavors, and colors.
This dog foods made in the USA uses quality protein to support lean muscle growth and a balanced set of minerals to promote strong bones and teeth in young dogs.
It is made with natural ingredients and formulated to support a healthy immune system and overall growth for puppies.
While customer feedback has generally been positive, some users have reported that the kibble size is too small for larger puppies, and others have reported that the food did not agree with their dogs’ stomachs.
However, Hill’s Science Diet Chicken & Barley is recommended by veterinarians and made in the USA with globally sourced ingredients you can trust.
Contains nutrients that aid with puppy growth.
There are no preservatives, artificial colors, or tastes in this product
Kibble could be too little for larger puppies.
It is possible that delicate puppies’ tummies will be disturbed
2. Canidae Pure Limited Ingredient Premium Adult Dry Dog Food
- Duck, duck meal, turkey meal, and sweet potatoes are the main components.
- 32% protein content
- 16% fat content
- 520 calories per cup
Canidae Grain-Free Duck & Sweet Potato is high-protein dog food made in Texas.
Although some ingredients, such as duck meal, are sourced from outside the country, this dog foods made in the USA contains only eight easily recognizable ingredients and is formulated to provide complete and balanced nutrition for adult dogs.
As a result, it’s an ideal choice for dogs with sensitive stomachs. Crafted with real duck as the first ingredient and whole ingredients like peas and sweet potatoes, this recipe provides a taste your dog will love.
It contains probiotics, antioxidants, and fatty acids that support your dog’s digestive and immune systems and promote healthy skin and coat. It also includes a nutritious blend of vitamins and minerals that support healthy joints.
Canidae is committed to creating a world of goodness for pets and the planet by using premium proteins and regeneratively farmed ingredients in every bowl, setting a new standard for pet food.
It is important to note that this dog foods made in the USA contains poultry products, including chicken fat, and is not a single-protein food. As a result, dogs with known chicken sensitivities should avoid it.
However, most customers have had positive experiences with this diet and consider it an excellent choice for dogs with sensitive skin and stomachs.
Only eight components are used
It might be beneficial for dogs with sensitive skin and stomachs
Antioxidants, fatty acids, and probiotics are present
It is not a proper allergy diet because it contains chicken
Expensive
3. Purina Pro Plan High Protein Dog Food With Probiotics for Dogs
- Chicken, rice, and whole grain wheat are the main components.
- 26% protein content
- 16% fat content
- 387 calories per cup
Purina ProPlan High Protein Shredded Chicken and Rice Dry Food is a top-quality dog food that is developed and manufactured in the USA. Purina operates over 20 production facilities across the country, and this recipe is one of them.
This dog foods made in the USA is primarily made of chicken, with soft bits mixed in with the hard portions, making it very appealing to dogs.
The texture mix of this meal is enticing to dogs, and it also contains probiotics to aid in digestion and fatty acids to promote healthy skin and coat.
Users overwhelmingly favor the ProPlan Chicken and Rice diet, although some object to the use of by-products.
Additionally, while the meal is manufactured in the United States, some of its components are sourced from other countries.
Purina Pro Plan High Protein Dog Food with Probiotics, Shredded Blend Chicken & Rice Formula is fortified with guaranteed live probiotics for digestive and immune system support, making it a great choice for dogs with sensitive stomachs.
This high-protein formula, with real chicken as the first ingredient, provides complete and balanced nutrition for adult dogs.
The kibble is a combination of hard and tender, shredded pieces for taste and texture dogs love. It’s formulated to support immune system health, digestive health, skin sensitivity, and coat health.
This dog foods made in the USA has previously been known as SAVOR Shredded Blend Chicken and Rice Formula, but the quality and ingredients are still top-notch.
High protein content
An pleasing texture blend
Probiotics and fatty acids have been added
Does include byproducts
Not all ingredients are sourced in the United States
4. Blue Buffalo Dog Food for Senior Dogs, Life Protection Formula
- Deboned chicken, brown rice, and barley are the main components.
- 18% protein content
- 10% fat content
- 342 calories per cup
Feeding your senior Blue Buffalo Life Protection Senior Chicken and Brown Rice food can help them age gracefully.
Blue Buffalo is a Connecticut-based company that produces all of its food in the USA. They claim to source ingredients from around the world only if they cannot find a reliable supplier in the USA.
This dog foods made in the USA contains real chicken as the first ingredient and is packed with blueberries and vegetables to provide a protein-rich diet that meets energy requirements and keeps older dogs active.
It does not contain chicken or poultry by-products, corn, wheat, or soy, making it a healthy and natural option for senior dogs.
The formula is lower in protein and fat than younger dog foods, which helps senior dogs maintain a healthy weight as they age. It also contains glucosamine and chondroitin, which help with joint health, making it an excellent choice for senior dogs.
Additionally, it contains LifeSource Bits, a precise blend of antioxidants, vitamins, and minerals that support immune system health, life stage needs, and a healthy oxidative balance.
Most customers report that their dogs enjoy the taste of this food, but some have mentioned a strong odor that may be off-putting to certain dogs.
Overall, Blue Buffalo Life Protection Senior Chicken and Brown Rice food is a great choice for senior dogs who require a protein-rich diet to meet their energy requirements and keep them feeling lively and youthful.
Reduced protein and fat content to keep aged canines lean
Supplements for joint health have been included
It has a pungent odor
5. Natural Balance Ultra Premium Wet Dog Food, Beef Formula with Potatoes
- Beef, beef broth, and beef liver are the main components.
- 8% protein content
- 5% fat content
- 440 calories per 13 ounce can
If you’re looking for high-quality canned dog food made in the USA, consider Natural Balance Ultra Premium Beef diet. Natural Balance is a California-based company that also operates a manufacturing facility in South Carolina.
This meat-rich diet features beef as its first ingredient and includes grains and vegetables for added nutrition. While it’s marketed as a “premium” option, keep in mind that this term is not regulated and doesn’t necessarily indicate superior quality.
Natural Balance Ultra Premium Beef diet is an excellent choice for dogs with confirmed chicken allergies, as it doesn’t contain any chicken.
Most customers report that their dogs enjoy the taste of this food, although some have mentioned difficulty opening the can. The food has a unique texture that some dogs may find unappealing.
This dog foods made in the USA is formulated with a holistic approach to your dog’s well-being, supporting their immune system and brain development with key nutrients.
The beef ultra recipe is crafted with nutritious ingredients, such as beef, beef liver, and brown rice, and is complete and balanced with essential nutrients to maintain your dog’s immune system and overall health.
Natural Balance’s ‘Feed with Confidence’ program tests every batch of food from start to finish, ensuring safety with every bite. You can verify the bag on their website or contact their Customer Care Team of Registered Veterinary Technicians.
Made with a lot of flesh
There is no chicken in this recipe, which is ideal for dogs that are allergic to chicken
Unusual texture
The can is difficult to open
6. NUTRO NATURAL CHOICE Healthy Weight Adult Dry Dog Food
- Chicken, brewers rice, and chicken meal are the main components.
- 22% protein content
- 14% fat content
- 343 kilocalories per cup
Dog owners looking for the best dog food made in the USA will appreciate Nutro's Natural Choice line of dry dog food. This recipe, made with real chicken and brown rice, is specially crafted for adult dogs one year and older.
The meal features non-GMO ingredients, ensuring that your furry friend is not consuming any genetically modified organisms. It’s also free of chicken by-product meal, corn, wheat, and soy.
The meal’s primary protein source is whole chicken, providing your dog with essential amino acids for maintaining healthy muscle mass.
A combination of fatty acids, antioxidants, and fiber supports your dog’s digestive health and promotes healthy weight loss. Nutro’s dry dog food is made in California and North Carolina, using only the finest ingredients sourced from around the world.
While most users have given this recipe favorable ratings, some have reported that their dogs did not enjoy periodic changes to the recipe.
It’s important to note that this recipe is not suitable for dogs with chicken allergies since it contains chicken protein.
Overall, Nutro’s Natural Choice line of dog food is an excellent choice for pet owners who want to provide their dogs with high-quality, nutritious, and delicious food made in the USA.
GMOs are not present
There are no byproducts
Antioxidants, fatty acids, and fiber are all present
Globally sourced ingredients
Some flavor variability due to recipe modifications
7. VICTOR Super Premium Dog Food – Hi-Pro Plus Dry Dog Food
- Beef meal, grain sorghum, and chicken fat are the main components.
- 30% protein content
- 20% fat content
- Calories per cup: 406
When it comes to finding the best dog food made in the USA, Victor Hi-Pro is an excellent option for pet owners who want to support American-made brands.
This gluten-free, high-protein dog food features a nutrient-dense, multi-meat formula that provides sustained energy for active and working dogs.
The bulk of the ingredients used in Victor Hi-Pro are sourced within 200 miles of the company’s Texas headquarters, making it a great choice for environmentally conscious consumers who want to support local businesses with a low carbon footprint.
This dog foods made in the USA is packed with high-quality beef, chicken, pork, and fish meals and is suitable for all life stages, including pregnant dogs, lactating females, and puppies.
The proprietary VPRO blend of supplements, vitamins, and minerals maximizes the genetic potential of every dog, regardless of breed, age, or activity level.
Victor Hi-Pro is made in the USA at the company’s Texas-based facility, and the brand is committed to providing high-quality nutrition.
The majority of the ingredients used in the recipe are sourced from trusted suppliers within a day’s drive of the East Texas plant.
However, it’s important to note that because this diet is intended for active and working dogs, its protein and fat content may be too high for inactive dogs.
Made and sourced in the United States
The majority of the components are sourced within 200 miles of the facility
Large bags are available
For less active dogs, it may contain too much protein
8. Diamond Naturals Adult Real Meat Recipe Premium Dry Dog Food
- Lamb meal, ground white rice, cracked pearled barley are the main components.
- 23% protein content
- 14% fat content
- Calories per cup: 403
Diamond Naturals is a family-owned company based in Missouri that offers a range of dog food made in the USA.
This lamb meal and rice mix is designed for adult dogs and features high-quality protein from real lamb, making it a nutritious and delicious option for pet owners.
Diamond Naturals also contains vitamins and minerals from fruits and vegetables, as well as fatty acids, antioxidants, and probiotics to support immune and digestive health, and skin and coat health.
The brand is committed to providing high-quality nutrition and doesn’t use artificial flavors or colors, corn, wheat, or soy in their kibble.
While Diamond Naturals is competitively priced and free of byproducts, it’s important to note that the kibble size may not be suitable for larger breed dogs.
Additionally, some owners have reported that their dogs didn’t enjoy the taste of this recipe.
However, the brand has received mostly favorable feedback from customers who praise the high quality of the ingredients for the low price.
A family-run business
There are no artificial colors, flavors, or byproducts
Fruits and vegetables are included
Kibble that is smaller
Some dogs dislike the flavor
9. Stella & Chewy’s Freeze Dried Raw Dinner Patties – Grain Free Dog Food
If you’re looking for high-quality dog food made in the USA, consider Stella & Chewy's Freeze-Dried Raw Chicken Patties .
These patties are made with 95% chicken, organs, and bone, providing the protein-rich taste that dogs crave and the nutrition they deserve.
One standout feature of this dog food is the use of whole ingredients, including chicken, which helps support healthy digestion, strong teeth and gums, vibrant skin and coat, and stamina and vitality.
The recipe is fortified with vitamins and minerals to improve your dog’s overall well-being, and it contains fiber, probiotics, and taurine to support digestive health and heart function.
Stella & Chewy’s sources 100% organic fruits and vegetables, such as cranberries, blueberries, broccoli, and beets, which provide antioxidants to help support a healthy immune system and overall energy.
The pumpkin seeds and fenugreek seeds in the recipe also provide Omega fatty acids for skin and coat support.
Crafted in the USA with responsibly sourced, premium ingredients, minimal processing, and a small-batch production process, this dog food is of the highest quality.
It’s free from unnecessary fillers like potatoes, peas, and lentils, as well as by-product meals, and it has no artificial colors, flavors, or preservatives.
Made with 95% chicken, organs, and bone for essential protein and amino acids
Whole prey ingredients support healthy digestion, teeth and gums, skin and coat, and overall vitality
Fortified with added vitamins and minerals, fiber, probiotics, and taurine for digestive health and heart function
Contains 100% organic fruits and veggies for antioxidants
Crafted in the USA with responsibly sourced, premium ingredients
Free from unnecessary fillers and by-product meals
No artificial colors, flavors, or preservatives
May not be suitable for all dogs
More expensive than some other dog food options
10. Natural Balance Limited Ingredient Adult Dry Dog Food with Healthy Grains
If you’re looking for high-quality dog food made in the USA, consider Natural Balance Duck & Brown Rice . Duck is the primary ingredient, providing essential protein and amino acids that help maintain strong muscles.
Brown rice is also included as a healthy and rich source of fiber to support digestive health.
One of the standout features of this dog food is that it’s made with sensitive pets in mind. Natural Balance has carefully chosen a simplified list of premium ingredients to help support healthy coats, skin, and digestive systems.
It’s made with a single animal protein source and contains no added soy, gluten, or artificial colors or flavors. This dry dog food is complete and balanced to meet your dog’s nutritional needs.
It contains essential nutrients to help maintain your dog’s healthy immune system and is suitable for dogs of all types, not just those with sensitive stomachs, irritable skin, or allergies.
What’s more, Natural Balance takes safety and transparency seriously. Their ‘Feed with Confidence’ program tests every batch of food from start to finish, ensuring safety with every bite.
You can validate your bag on their site or call their Customer Care Team of Registered Veterinary Technicians for more information.
High-quality ingredients, sourced in the USA
Duck is the primary ingredient, providing essential protein and amino acids
Brown rice is included for digestive health
Simplified list of premium ingredients, with no added soy, gluten, or artificial colors or flavors
Complete and balanced to meet your dog’s nutritional needs
Suitable for dogs of all types
Safety and transparency is a top priority with their ‘Feed with Confidence’ program
May not be suitable for dogs with specific dietary requirements or preferences
Some dogs may not enjoy the taste or texture of duck
Buyer's Guide: How to Choose the Best Dog Food Made in the United States
With so many options on the market, selecting the best dog food for your furry friend can be challenging. However, one way to narrow down your choices is to look for dog food made in the USA.
Why is this important? Here are some reasons:
American-made dog food is subject to strict quality and safety standards imposed by the FDA and USDA. This means that the ingredients, processing, and labeling of the dog food are regulated and inspected to ensure they meet minimum standards for pet food.
Dog food made in the USA is more likely to contain high-quality ingredients from reputable sources, including nutrient-rich meats, fruits, vegetables, and grains that are suitable for your dog’s digestive system. Some dog food manufacturers even use organic, human-grade, or non-GMO ingredients for added benefits.
The sourcing and manufacturing processes of American-made dog food are more transparent. This means you can easily find out where the ingredients come from, how they are processed, and where the manufacturing facility is located.
Some dog food brands provide production numbers and expiration dates for freshness and traceability.
Of course, not all American-made dog food is created equal. Some brands may use deceptive labels or low-quality ingredients to save money or attract customers. Before buying any dog food, you should do your research and carefully read the labels.
So, how do you choose the best American-made dog food? Here are some helpful tips:
1. Check the list of ingredients
Real meat should be the first ingredient in dog food, followed by nutritious fruits, vegetables, and grains. Avoid feeding your dog food containing by-products, additives, artificial colors, flavors, and preservatives.
Explore the best premium dog foods on our website for the ultimate in canine nutrition.
2. Examine the nutritional content
Look for dog food with a balanced ratio of protein, fat, carbohydrates, fiber, vitamins, and minerals.
The precise percentages will vary based on your dog’s age, size, level of activity, and health condition, but as a general rule, look for at least 18% protein and 5% fat for adult dogs, and at least 22% protein and 8% fat for puppies.
3. Check the origin of the product
Look for dog food made in the USA with ingredients from the USA or other reputable countries. Avoid dog food that does not specify its origin or the origin of its ingredients.
4. Read ratings and reviews
Look for dog food that has received positive reviews from other pet owners and professionals. Read the reviews carefully and look for common complaints or issues with the dog food.
You can also consult online resources such as Dog Food Advisor and Whole Dog Journal for unbiased reviews and evaluations of various dog food brands.
“If you’re looking for more information on dog food reviews, you may want to check out the Dog Food Reviews 2023 article.
It provides useful insights and unbiased evaluations of various dog food brands, which can help you make an informed decision about what to feed your furry friend.”
By following these guidelines, you can find the best American-made dog food for your pet. Consult your veterinarian before changing your dog’s diet, and introduce new foods gradually to prevent digestive issues. Happy eating!
FAQs
1. Where is Hill’s dog food made?
Hill’s dog food is made in the United States, with significant manufacturing and storage facilities located in Bowling Green, Kentucky; Topeka and Emporia, Kansas; and Richmond, Indiana.
2. Is Canidae dog food made in the USA?
Yes, Canidae dog food is made in the USA at their own manufacturing facility in Brownwood, Texas, giving them complete control over the formulations, quality, and nutrition of their pet food.
3. What is highly processed dog food?
Kibble is considered a highly processed dog food product, although it is a popular choice for pet owners due to its convenience and long shelf life.
4. Where is the most dog food made?
As of 2023, the majority of dog food is produced in Europe and North America, with each region producing over 11 million metric tons of pet food. Latin America ranks third with an estimated production volume of 8.86 million metric tons.
If you want to learn more about dog food made in the USA and why it’s important for your furry friend’s health and happiness, check out our article “Dog Foods Made In The USA: The Secret To Your Dog’s Health And Happiness“.
5. Is Purina made in the USA?
Yes, 99% of Purina pet food products sold in the United States are produced in their own facilities located in the USA, ensuring quality control and consistency in their pet food products.
6. Is Blue Buffalo sourced in the USA?
Blue Buffalo sources their ingredients from around the world, but they manufacture their pet food products in the United States at their facilities located in Joplin, Missouri, and Richmond, Indiana.
7. Is dog food better than natural food?
While both commercial dog food and natural food have their advantages and disadvantages, commercial dog food often contains additives and preservatives that may have a negative effect on a dog’s health over time.
A fresh, human-grade diet can provide increased vitality and better long-term health for dogs.
Conclusion
When it comes to selecting dog food made in the USA, there are several high-quality options available.
Hill's Science Diet Puppy Food is specifically formulated for developing pups, enriched with essential nutrients to support growth and development.
It is important to note that not all dog foods made in the USA are created equal. The quality of ingredients, nutrient composition, and manufacturing processes can vary significantly between brands.
Therefore, it is crucial to read the label carefully and consider the ingredients before selecting dog food for your pet.
At BestForPets, our goal is to provide pet owners with comprehensive and unbiased reviews of the best dog foods made in the USA. Our resources and expertise can help pet owners make informed decisions about their pet’s diets and overall health.
We hope this information has been helpful in guiding you toward the best dog food options for your furry companion. As always, we recommend consulting with your veterinarian before making any changes to your dog’s diet.
Veterinarian (DVM)
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