There are different breeds of dogs, and they all have their specific nutritional requirements. There are dog brands that ensure your dog eats right. Purchasing from one of the best affordable dog food brands depends largely on your dog’s requirement at every stage of its life.
Puppies usually require more protein than older dogs, because they are experiencing body growth. Adult dogs require lower calories and fat with an increased amount of fiber. Dog food brands would usually provide extra information about which stage of life their products are made for.
Always ensure that you do not go for brands that have preservatives or dye in them because they are more harmful to the dog’s system.
Quick Recommendations
- Pedigree Adult Complete Nutrition Dry Dog Food by Pedigree
- Taste of the Wild Dry Dog Food, Hi Prairie Formula by Taste of the Wild
- Blue Buffalo Life Protection Formula by Blue Buffalo
- Merrick Dry Dog Food by Merrick
- Hill’s Science Diet Adult Advanced Fitness Formula by Hill’s Science Diet
- Natural Balance L.I.D. Limited Ingredient Diets by Natural Balance
- Rachael Ray Nutrish Super Premium Dry Dog Food by Rachel Ray
- Nature’s Recipe Wet Cheap Dog Food Cups by Nature’s Recipe
- Dogswell Happy Hips Cheapest Dog Food by Dogswell
- Grizzly Salmon Oil Cheap Dog Food Supplement by Grizzly
Types of Dog Food
There are five major types of dog food, and they are; dry, canned, semi-moist, home-cooked, and raw. Dog food does not come in varieties like that of humans, but there are few you can choose from. Regardless of the brand you pick, the most important thing is that your dog gets all the nutritional values it requires.
Dry Food
This is the most economical of all the food types, and that is why most dog owners use it. The food lasts longer, and it does not require to be refrigerated. Dry food would help keep the teeth healthy because of regular chewing.
Canned
Dogs love canned, or wet food. They have a long shelf life, and can easily be found in any store. Though canned foods are worth the money, you should watch out for the amount of protein the food gives and whether it is adequate for your dog.
Semi-moist
Foods that have the shapes of; burgers or any meaty food are known as semi-moist. These types of food do not increase your dog’s nutritional value, and they contain lots of colorings and flavors. This should not be your dog’s regular diet, it should only be given as a treat.
Home Cooked
With this type of food, the nutritional intake of your dog is all in your hands. With a home-cooked meal, you can be assured of what your dog is eating. Though it is time-consuming and expensive, most dog owners believe the effort is worth the peace of mind you would get.
Raw
Dogs that eat raw food, have a diet of just raw meat and uncooked bones. The dog gains phosphorus and calcium from the bones, this diet works well for many dogs because their stomach is structured that way, you should be careful before converting your dog to eating raw food. You should be aware of the risks and benefits involved.
Best Affordable Dog Food Buying Guide
Just like humans, food choices that dogs make also affect their health. Dogs with a more healthy diet usually grow healthier than those with less. Diet affects other aspects of your dog’s life. It affects areas such as; behavior, skin, energy, etc. Bad nutrition can shorten the life of your dog.
When you want to purchase one of the best affordable dog food brands, here are some of the nutritional facts that you should be on the lookout for.
Protein: 20% of a dog’s diet should be quality protein. Factors such as age, size, level of activity, and health status can make the protein different in each dog.
Carbohydrates: There is no minimum requirement for carbohydrates. Vegetables that have been properly cooked would provide glucose required for a functional brain.
Fat: Dietary fats derived from milk, meats, and vegetable oil would be okay for your dog up to 10% of the diet. Dietary fat helps the food taste better and also help in food digestion.
Vitamins and minerals: They should be taken in the right proportion, it helps organs function properly and also promotes good health. Lack of it could cause serious health issues for your dog.
Safety Precautions to Take
- Consult your veterinarian before using products for your dog.
- Dogs with ailments need to confirm if they can make use of any brand.
- Keep out of children and animals’ reach.
- Contact medical personnel in case of an overdose.
Does my Dog have Food Allergies?
Allergies are quite popular among dogs. With different products available, you should ensure you have the right brand before you feed your dog. Allergies are reactions caused by exposure to a trigger. Types of triggers in dogs are; insects, grass, food, drugs, and molds.
Some common foods are known to cause problems for sensitive dogs. Foods such as; wheat, soy, corn, dyes. There are now products that address these issues, but always ensure that you confirm with your veterinarian before purchasing anyone.
How to Test the Food my Dog Would Eat
To test the type of food your dog would eat, you need to give choices so the dog would have various options to pick from. Some dogs would eat anything you present to them, but some are very picky. Close attention must be paid to the dog, so you would know the reaction anytime a particular brand is offered. From there, you can decide which food your dog prefers.
Feeding Routine
It is advisable to get a feeding routine for your dog, there is no specific number of times your dog has to eat per day. Routine would help when you need to change your dog’s food. If the dog is conditioned to eat at a particular time and is denied that, the dog would most likely eat anything it is served. That way you can gradually change its meal plan.
Also, you can give your dog treats after accomplishing a task. This way, there would be some sort of motivation for the dog anytime a task is up. Regardless of what you pick, ensure you talk to your vet and seek their opinion.
Things to Avoid in Dog Foods
If you are buying cheap products, some things are a no-no regardless of the price. This is a list of things you should watch out for and avoid when selecting your preferred dog food.
By-products: Dog foods that have by-products in them should always be avoided. This is because the origin of the by-product is unknown and it is low in nutritional value.
Flavors and additives: Whichever dog food you select, it must be free from flavors, additives, and preservatives. These ingredients could make dogs develop allergies.
Grains: Only dogs that have sensitive stomach would feel the impact of grains. Grains should not be included in your dog’s diet.
Best Affordable Dog Food Brands
This review contains a list of dog food brands, their features, pros, and con. It also shows customer’s reviews on chewy.
| IMAGE | PRODUCT | |
|---|---|---|
 | Our Top Pick Pedigree Adult Complete Nutrition Dry Dog Food by Pedigree
| VIEW ON AMAZON →READ REVIEWS → |
 | Taste of the Wild Dry Dog Food, Hi Prairie Formula by Taste of the Wild
| VIEW ON AMAZON →READ REVIEWS → |
 | Blue Buffalo Life Protection Formula by Blue Buffalo
| VIEW ON AMAZON →READ REVIEWS → |
 | Merrick Dry Dog Food by Merrick
| VIEW ON AMAZON →READ REVIEWS → |
 | Hill’s Science Diet Adult Advanced Fitness Formula by Hill’s Science Diet
| VIEW ON AMAZON →READ REVIEWS → |
 | Rachael Ray Nutrish Super Premium Dry Dog Food by Rachel Ray
| VIEW ON AMAZON →READ REVIEWS → |
 | Nature’s Recipe Wet Cheap Dog Food Cups by Nature’s Recipe
| VIEW ON AMAZON →READ REVIEWS → |
 | Dogswell Happy Hips Cheapest Dog Food by Dogswell
| VIEW ON AMAZON →READ REVIEWS → |
 | Grizzly Salmon Oil Cheap Dog Food Supplement by Grizzly
| VIEW ON AMAZON →READ REVIEWS → |
1. Pedigree Adult Complete Nutrition Dry Dog Food by Pedigree
Pedigree Adult Complete Nutrition is a dry dog food that all dog lovers should go with. The product is pocket friendly and helps support the complete nutrition of your dog. It contains vitamins, antioxidants, and fiber.
It gives adult dogs the required vitamins, energy, and nourishment required to live well and longer. It helps keep the skin of your dog shiny.
Features
- Balanced diets for your dog.
- Made in the USA.
- Contains no additives, no artificial flavors.
Why you should buy
This is all your dog needs if its body is found compatible with the food. It is safe, with a well-balanced diet.
Pros
- No artificial flavors.
- A balanced diet without any hassle.
- No flavors.
Customer’s Review
This product has a 4.5 out of 5 stars on Chewy.
2. Taste of the Wild Dry Dog Food, Hi Prairie Formula by Taste of the Wild
Both your dog and you, will fall in love with this dog food. It has very high ratings from past consumers. The ingredients used in making Taste of the Wild are very tasty for the dogs because they help them satisfy their nature’s desire.
The food is made from; potatoes, pea, chicken, and lamb. Naturally, dogs are omnivores and crave vegetables as much as they crave meat. It is grain-free and has antioxidants that would help protect the immune system of your dog.
Features
- Zero grains.
- High level of protein.
- Optimal amino acids and fatty acids.
Why you should buy
If you have adult dogs, for the right amount, this food would be perfect for your dog. If you have the money and do not mind the expense, you can go for this food, the high-level of protein is an added advantage. Small breeds and puppies can also use this brand.
Pros
- High level of protein.
- Very rich in nutrients.
- 60% conversion of fat to protein.
Customer’s Review
This product has a 4 .5 out of 5 stars reviews on Chewy.
3. Blue Buffalo Life Protection Formula by Blue Buffalo
Here is a popular dog food brand. This food is your source for complete and balanced nutrition for your dog. It helps maintain the weight of your dog and increases energy levels.
The Blue Buffalo Life contains fatty acids that help improve your dog’s skin and fur. This food also contains apple which is a good source of Vitamin C for your dog. It contains antioxidants like cranberries that help promote bladder health.
Features
- Rich in vegetables.
- Rich in vitamins.
- Rich in minerals.
Why you should buy
This food has been recommended by vets to adult dogs of ages one to six. However, ensure you consult your vet before feeding this brand to your dog. When cleared, this food would feed your dog well at a reduced price. Most of the meat protein in this food is derived from chicken.
Pros
- Promotes bladder health.
- Good source of Vitamin C.
- Contains antioxidants.
- Has a 58% conversion rate of fat to protein.
Customer’s Review
This product has a 4.5 out of 5 stars review on Chewy.
4. Merrick Dry Dog Food by Merrick
Merrick is a specialist in feeding dogs, this grain-free dog food is for dogs that have sensitivity issues. Its main ingredient is made up of; 70% meat proteins and 30% fresh produce. This food helps promote the skin and coat of your dog while improving its joints.
This food provides balanced nutrition and is ideal for all breeds of dog at any stage of life. It helps build healthy muscle tissues.
Features
- Contains de-boned buffalo and fish.
- Whole foods in the food are locally made.
- Ideal for all breeds.
Why you should buy
This food helps build healthy muscles for your dog with quality protein. Merrick dry dog food contains carbohydrates that would help give your dog energy, and it is grain-free
Pros
- Lots of Omega 6 and Omega 7 fatty acids.
- Contains zero flavors and preservatives.
- Full recipe containing apples, blueberries.
Customer’s Review
This product has a 4.5 out of 5-star reviews on Chewy.
5. Hill’s Science Diet Adult Advanced Fitness Formula by Hill’s Science Diet
If you want the full package for your dog, then you should spare no expense and make this your number one choice. Hill’s science diet adult advanced fitness formula helps maintain a good immune system, boosts vital organs such as heart, skin, and coat. The chicken used in making this product is soft to chew and digest.
Dogs aged 1-6 can eat this brand. It helps with the fitness of the dog. Quality protein helps your dog remain strong and fatty acids helps improve the coat and skin.
Features
- Omega 6 helps improve skin.
- Supports the growth of lean muscle.
- Helps maintain a beautiful dog structure.
Why you should buy
For those that are worried about the type of food to help improve the physical structure of your dog, this is the perfect choice for you. Ingredients meet a strict requirement that exceeds the standard in the industry.
Pros
- Promote dog fitness.
- Improves skin and other vital areas.
- Contains only natural fibers.
Customer’s Review
This product has a 4.5 out of 5 stars review on Amazon.
6. Natural Balance L.I.D. Limited Ingredient Diets by Natural Balance
This is a simple dog food with top-notch health benefits. The ingredients of this food are scientifically generated to provide a high level of nutrition for your dog which would help with the skin and coat.
This unique dog food contains just one carbohydrate and protein that are easily digestible. It can be consumed by all dogs, whether; adult, senior, or puppies. It comes with kibbles which help promote healthy gums.
Features
- Contains kibbles.
- Limited ingredient.
- Fiber blends help improve nutrition.
- Good for puppies that are food sensitive.
Why you should buy
This dry food works with any size or breed of dog and has lots of health benefits to your dog.
Pros
- For dogs with food sensitivity.
- Quality nutrition.
- No artificial preservatives or colors.
Customer’s Review
This product has a 4.5 out of 5 stars review on Amazon.
7. Rachael Ray Nutrish Super Premium Dry Dog Food by Rachel Ray
For those that are willing to give their dog quality food, this brand has always been the number one choice. Rachael Ray worked with a team of professionals in dog food to help ensure that dogs consuming nutrish super-premium are having the best nutrition.
Chicken is the main ingredient in this food, and it is wildly accepted by dogs because of its flavors and taste varieties. All ingredients used in making this food are natural.
Features
- Simple and natural ingredients.
- Chicken is the main ingredient.
- It does not contain wheat or wheat products.
Why you should buy
Customer reviews say it all. There have been positive reviews from people that switched to the nutrish premium natural, this is one of the cheapest and healthiest products available.
Pros
- Made with no poultry product or by-product.
- Contains L-Carnitine, which helps sustain the dog’s weight and metabolism.
- Antioxidants help support general health and wellbeing.
Customer’s Review
This product has a 4.5 out of a 5-star review on chewy.
8. Nature’s Recipe Wet Cheap Dog Food Cups by Nature’s Recipe
For dogs that require wet foods, this is a top product you can pick for your dog at a relatively cheap rate. This food is made with only natural ingredients and offers quality protein of savory broth. Dogs with allergies have not shown any reactions against this food.
Top sources of protein such as chicken, duck, and salmon are used in making this food. Rich in vitamins and minerals.
Features
- Chicken is the main ingredient in this food.
- Contains quality protein.
Why you should buy
No artificial preservatives or flavor and it has a 100% balance diet for all breeds of dogs. This brand also meets up with established nutritional levels set by AAFCO for dog maintenance and growth.
Pros
- Completely natural ingredients.
- Made with real animal protein.
- Meets the nutritional level for growth and maintenance.
Customer’s Review
This product has a 4.5 out of 5 stars review on chewy.
9. Dogswell Happy Hips Cheapest Dog Food by Dogswell
This nutritious dry brand of dog food helps dogs maintain healthy joints. There have been changes for dogs that have arthritis. This food helps improve the dog’s walking ability and pain management.
Made from grains, antioxidant fruits, and vegetables. Minerals are used for better absorption of nutrients, and no artificial colors are used. It contains 24% protein.
Features
- Available in different sizes.
- No wheat or preservatives.
- Real fruits and vegetables such as; carrot and sweet potatoes were used.
Why you should buy
It contains Vitamin E which is antioxidant that helps ensure the connective tissues stay strong and prevents skin from losing its elasticity. It also provides amino acids to maintain muscle tone and aid with muscle development.
Pros
- Fiber from fruits supports digestion.
- Have glucosamine to help support proactive hip and healthy joints.
- Real chicken produces amino acids to support muscle development.
Customer’s Review
This product has a 4 out of 5 stars review on chewy.
10. Grizzly Salmon Oil Cheap Dog Food Supplement by Grizzly
If you are on a budget and you need some product to help your dog, this is the perfect dog food you can get. Positive reviews have been coming in describing this product has a positive supplement which helps dog that always need an extra nutrient after their meal.
It contains different types of omega 3 fatty acids for maintained metabolism. These acids also boost the immune system. This product would not affect the regular vitamin intakes of the dog. It should be known that this brand cannot replace the usual diet for your dog.
Features
- Includes a dispenser bottle.
- Very easy and simple.
- All-natural product.
Why you should buy
This brand is a supplement to the food your dog eats, it ensures that your dog gets the missing nutrients in the food.
Pros
- Provides a better skin and coat for the dog.
- Works for all breeds of dogs, and improves fertility.
- Ingredients are derived from different kinds of seafood to promote purity and clarity.
Customer’s Review
This product has a 4.5 out of 5 stars review on chewy.
Final thoughts on the best affordable dog food brands of 2023
After picking one of the best affordable dog food brands, you need to ensure it is healthy for your dog. Consider other buyer’s opinions before making your purchase. There are other expensive brands, but for people on a budget, here is the list of dog food brands you can purchase without breaking the bank. You can check more dog food brands on Chewy.
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Forrest is a lover of dogs, the wild outdoors, deep mysterious conversations… and coffee. He is the owner of several websites, including Canine Weekly. He resides in Austin, Texas.