Best High Protein Dog Food: Reviews & Top Picks

Let’s take an in-depth look at some of the best high protein dog foods available on the pet market.

Not only that we have selected the best of the best, but we will answer the most common questions on high protein dog food.

For food to be considered as food of high protein percentage, there should be a minimum of 28% of protein.

The majority of dry dog food contains 23 to 27 percent protein, while wet food contains a bit higher percentage that will vary from brand to brand.

Now, check the food with the highest protein percentage.

How we chose

Because choosing the right food for your dog can be confusing and overwhelming, we reviewed all dog foods.

Every product on our list has been vetted to ensure that it aligns with Barking Royalty’s brand integrity standards and approach to well-being. Each product in this article:

• adheres to allowable health claims and labeling requirements
• is manufactured in facilities that adhere to current good manufacturing practices (CGMPs)
• is produced by a medically credible company that follows ethical, legal, and industry best standards
• is made by a company that provides objective measures of trust

Additional factors we considered included:

• Ingredients. We looked for supplements that are free of unnecessary ingredients such as fillers and artificial
• sweeteners and colors.
• AAFCO Dog Food Nutrient Profile. We checked if the food meets the nutritional levels established by the AAFCO.
• Price. We included products to suit a range of budgets.

Best Overall

1. Taste of the Wild Ancient Stream Dry Dog Food

Top five ingredients in this formula: Salmon, salmon meal, ocean fish meal, grain sorghum, millet

• Price: $$
• Energy: 3,640 kcal/kg, 413 kcal/cup
• AAFCO Profile: All life stages
• Grain-free: No

Salmon is the first ingredient in this formula to serve as a great source of omega-3 fatty acids and keep a dog’s coat shiny and healthy.

As a great protein source, salmon is followed by a salmon meal, ocean fish meal, grain sorghum, and millet.

The top five ingredients are carefully mixed to provide enough protein and energy.

For a richer taste, this formula contains salmon oil and tomato pomace.

Quinoa and chia seed are added to make texture smoother while providing enough fiber.

Real fruit and vegetables are added to this formula to provide enough vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants.

Blueberries are a great low-calorie treat for dogs, as they contain antioxidants, fiber, and vitamins C and K.

The benefits of this tiny fruit are so strong that when consumed properly it can contribute to overall health.

Smoke-flavored salmon is added not only for better taste but to provide enough protein and help support bones, joints, and lean, strong muscles.

This smoke-flavored salmon dry dog food is packed with vitamins and minerals that are derivated from real fruit and vegetable while providing fresh meat for overall well-being.

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Best Budget

2. Merrick Classic Healthy Grains Dry Dog Food

Top five ingredients in this formula: Deboned chicken, chicken meal, brown rice, barley, oatmeal

• Price: $$
• Energy: 3730 kcal/kg, 406 kcal/cup
• AAFCO Profile: Growth
• Grain-free: No

Puppies need a proper amount of protein to thrive.

In order to thrive, puppies need a well-balanced diet that is dependent on protein, as they need protein to allow the dog’s body to function properly.

This is why deboned chicken is the first ingredient in this formula to provide a strong protein base, followed by a chicken meal, brown rice, barley, and oatmeal.

Thanks to other ingredients, such as chicken fat, turkey meal, and real fruit and vegetables, this formula help puppies grow and thrive daily.

Carrots and apples are added to provide not only fiber but also vitamins and minerals to support the dog’s immune system.

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Best Grain-Free

3. Acana Wild Atlantic Grain-Free Dry Dog Food

Top five ingredients in this formula: Whole mackerel, whole herring, whole redfish, silver hake, mackerel meal

• Price: $$
• Energy: 3,440 kcal/kg, 392 kcal/cup
• AAFCO Profile: All life stages
• Grain-free: Yes

The whole mackerel is the first ingredient in this formula, followed by whole herring, whole redfish, silver hake, and mackerel meal.

The top five ingredients are carefully blended to provide a strong protein base and enough omega-fatty acids to support a healthy coat and skin in dogs.

In general, dogs enjoy fish, especially when it adds to a softer food texture and richer taste.

The whole herring is a great source of omega-3 fatty acids which are good for the dog’s heart.

Plus, omega fatty acids can also improve a dog’s skin and coat quality, making it richer in appearance, soften on the touch, and shiny.

The whole redish offers fiber, potassium, and vitamin C that will carefully support the dog’s energy levels, immune system, and digestion.

Silver hake is another fish that is rich in omega-3 fatty acids that will support the dog’s heart healthy.

Not only that but this ingredient will bring vitamins A, B6, B12, E, and D, next to calcium and magnesium.

The last among the top five ingredients is mackerel meal which is loaded with essential nutrients for a dog’s overall wellbeing.

For better taste, this formula includes a pollock meal and whole pinto beans, while green lentils offer fiber and help dogs with their digestive health.

Real fruit and vegetables are added to provide vitamins, minerals, and a clean intestinal tract.

As a grain-free formula, this food is made without added corn, soy wheat, or tapioca making it suitable for dogs with sensitive stomachs.

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4. Dr. Tim’s Active Dog Pursuit Dry Dog Food

Top five ingredients in this formula: Chicken meal, brown rice, chicken fat, whole oat groats, dried beet pulp (sugar removed)

• Price: $$
• Energy: 3,840 kcal/kg | 442 kcal/cup
• AAFCO Profile: All Life Stages
• Grain-free: No

The first ingredient in this formula is a chicken meal which enables protein and lower calorie count.

This protein-based ingredient is followed by brown rice, chicken fat, whole oat groats, and dried beet pulp.

Chicken fat adds to the overall flavor, making the flavor richer and every bite more enjoyable.

Dried egg product adds to protein, while ocean herring meal is a high-quality source of protein, fat, vitamin D, and Omega-3.

When packed with such vitamins, an ingredient boosts and coats quality and helps the immune system.

This formula is packed with 86% animal protein making it suitable for the energetic lifestyle of breeds of all sizes.

As the formula for active dogs primarily. this food helps dogs boost endurance and lessen recovery time.

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5. Orijen Amazing Grains Dry Dog Food

Top five ingredients in this formula: Chicken, turkey, chicken liver, whole herring, whole mackerel

• Price: $$
• Energy: 3920 kcal/kg, 490 kcal/8oz cup
• AAFCO Profile: Adult Life Stage
• Grain-free: Yes

Chicken is the first ingredient in this formula for better taste and richer taste.

It is common for dog food that is rich in protein to contain chicken, which is why chicken is here primary ingredient.

Next to chicken, this formula contains turkey, chicken liver, whole herring, and the whole mackerel making the first five ingredients high in protein.

For a richer taste, turkey giblets are added offering a rich source of vitamins B3 and B12, and the minerals iron, phosphorus, and zinc.

When combined these ingredients play an important role in the cell metabolism of every dog.

Whole apples and whole pears are added to provide fiber and vitamins, while juniper berries can make anything urine-related stronger.

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6. Diamond Naturals Extreme Athlete Dry Dog Food

Top five ingredients in this formula: Chicken meal, chicken, ground white rice, chicken fat, cracked pearled barley

• Price: $$
• Energy: 4,107 kcal/kg, 470 kcal/cup
• AAFCO Profile: Maintenance
• Grain-free: No

Chicken meal is the first ingredient in this formula, followed by chicken, ground white rice, chicken fat, and cracked pearled barley.

Each of the top five ingredients is carefully mixed to provide enough protein, fiber, and vitamins.

For an extra protein boost, this formula contains egg products and dried beet pulp as a fiber source.

Kale and chia seed are added for extra fiber percentage in this formula and a stronger gut, while dried chicory root helps to reduce inflammation and fight off harmful bacteria.

Real fruit and vegetables are added into this formula to provide enough minerals and vitamins, while ground miscanthus grass provides not only fiber content but also helps with weight management in dogs.

This high protein and nutrient-rich formula is carefully crafted in the States by a family-owned company.

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7. Nature’s Logic Canine Dry Dog Food

Top five ingredients in this formula: Beef meal, millet, chicken fat, pumpkin seed, yeast culture

• Price: $$
• Energy: 375 kcal/cup
• AAFCO Profile: All Life Stages
• Grain-free: No

Beef meal is the first ingredient in this formula as a great protein source, followed by millet, chicken fat, pumpkin seed, and yeast culture.

Beef meal is a great addition to different dog foods as it serves as a great protein source that helps dogs build muscle.

Other ingredients offer richer flavor, and better taste, enabling smooth food texture while providing a balance of fiber, protein, and minerals.

Fiber-rich pumpkin not only that it helps with gut and digestive health, but it also contains vitamins A, C, and E, as well as iron and potassium.

Dried kelp in this formula serves to help keep the dog’s entire glandular system in balance.

Like any other ingredient, kale is safe for dogs as long as it is used in the correct amount.

Even the healthiest food can care distance in dogs.

Balance is the key when it comes to having a dog with a strong immune system, great health, and proper activity levels.

Pork liver from this formula is great for dogs as it comes with many nutrients and vitamins, including vitamins B2, B9, and B12, next to iron.

Did you know that the liver usually contains more meat than other cuts of meat? That is why pork liver is often included in dog food.

To support fiber health, this formula offers dried chicory root, and dried broccoli, while almonds in this formula are packed with several vitamins and nutrients, including vitamin E, magnesium, vitamin B2 and phosphorous.

Nature’s Logic Canine Beef Meal Feast All Life Stages formula is a 100% natural formula made free of chemically synthesized vitamins, minerals, or any sort of amino acids.

This formula contains minimally processed food and offers probiotics and digestive enzymes that are added after cooking. n

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8. Merrick Backcountry Freeze-Dried Raw Grain-Free Dog Food

Top five ingredients in this formula: Deboned beef, lamb meal, salmon meal, sweet potatoes, potatoes

• Price: $$
• Energy: 3,704 kcal/kg, 392 kcal/cup
• AAFCO Profile: Maintenance
• Grain-free: Yes

Deboned beef is the first ingredient in this formula as a great protein and omega-3 source, followed by lamb meal, salmon meal, sweet potatoes, and potatoes.

These top five ingredients are carefully mixed to provide a proper balance of protein, fat, and vitamins.

Not only that but these ingredients are carefully mixed to suit any breed size and provide enough energy in most adult dogs.

As high protein food, this formula helps dogs maintain their energy levels while helping them to keep their muscles lean and strong.

Omega fatty acids present in this formula are added to protein healthy skin and a shiny coat while glucosamine and chondroitin should support hip and joint function.

Crafted in Hereford, TX, and cooked in the USA, this formula is grain-free and as such comes with only high-quality ingredients.

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9. Victor Classic Hi-Pro Plus Dry Dog Food

Top five ingredients in this formula: Beef meal, grain sorghum, chicken fat, pork meal, chicken meal

• Price: $$
• Energy: 3815 kcal/kg, 406 kcal/cup
• AAFCO Profile: All Life Stages
• Grain-free: No

The first ingredient in this formula is a beef meal that is beneficial to dogs for numerous reasons.

This ingredient is not only a great protein source, but it also provides vitamins and minerals that will keep the dog’s coat healthy and shiny.

Not only that but the beef meal can help enhance a dog’s overall immune system, by providing iron, zinc, selenium, and vitamins B12, B3 and B6.

Pork meal and menhaden fish meal are added for a richer taste, and extra flavor, while boosting omega-fatty acids.

Vitamins are a crucial component when it comes to overall dog health, which is why this formula contains carrot powder – carrots are rich in vitamin A, can support a dog’s eye health, and assist in building a strong immune system.

Carrots, just like carrot powder can help dogs have healthy skin and coats.

Tomato pomace is added to serve as a fiber source, as fiber helps the dog support healthy digestion and maintain the dog’s steady blood sugar levels.

Whole grain millet, menhaden fish meal, and vegetable oil make digestion easy while providing fresher breath and better gut health.

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Now that you have the best dog food that is high in protein, let’s learn more about protein in dogs’ diets in general and what you should be mindful of when choosing the best brand for your Fido.

Is High Protein Dog Food Healthy for Dogs?

There is no direct answer to this question, as it depends on the dog.

For example, if your dog is a senior citizen, he might need more protein to help him keep his bones strong and healthy.

As long as dogs have strong jones, they are more agile and should have more smooth movement.

Protein keeps bones strong and therefore keeps dogs moving.

Did you know that adult dogs need a minimum of 18% in their diets? This percentage will usually be higher when it comes to a senior dog’s diet.

For dogs to thrive on dog food they need food that offers a great protein-fat ratio.

Every dog has different nutritional needs, but one thing is common to all of them – as they age they need more protein.

Do you have a breed of high-energy levels such as Borador or Border Collie?

If so, you should know that dogs of high-energy levels need a high protein diet, or more protein to support their activity.

Bear in mind that not all proteins are created equally.

Ideally, all or the majority of a dog’s protein will come from an animal. For dogs to thrive, they need a diet that is a mix of meat, fruit, and vegetable.

They are not obligate carnivores like cats are but they still need animal-based ingredients to thrive.

In fact, their bodies are evolved to process animal-based ingredients more efficiently than plant-based ingredients.

In other words, a foundation of a healthy diet for dogs is animal-based protein.

Still, your dog’s protein needs will depend on dog activity levels, particular needs, and overall health status, which is why you should always check your veterinarian before you make any major changes to your dog’s diet.

Active dogs

Active dogs should always benefit from food that is rich in protein.

Animal protein helps dogs build bones and muscles, and high-energy dogs need protein to maintain their strong muscles and strong joints.

Senior dogs

Senior dogs need food that comes with a high protein percentage.

Animal protein helps them keep their muscles lean and in good shape.

Without additional protein, senior dogs may suffer as their movement may become slow or even painful.

As dogs age, they lose muscles and extra protein helps them maintain their muscles and easy or easier movement.

Introducing food that is rich in protein is something that should always be done in agreement with your veterinarian.

Too much protein can be a problem for the kidneys and liver.

Puppies

Did you know that puppies need more protein than adult dogs do?

AAFCO recommends a minimum of 22.5 percent, while the minimum for adults is 18 percent.

Puppies should always be fed food that is specially designed for them. There is not much point in feeding puppies senior food.

They may have full bellies, but they won’t get any of the nutrients that should help them thrive.

Compared to adult and senior dogs, puppies have different nutrient needs in addition to protein requirements that can only be met with puppy food.

High Protein Dog Food Benefits

You may hear of benefits to a dog from protein, but do you know them?

Before we list them, know once again that better protein quality will provide better results for your dog’s health.

That being said, know that the biggest benefits of a quality ingredient for your dog are increased health, wellness, and longevity.

Any diet that is high in high-quality protein is lean and contains more nutrients than are absorbed by dogs.

Plus, a well-balanced high protein diet should not put extra strain on the system or organs which may lead to health concerns.

Does more protein mean better food? Simply said, yes.

When a food contains more protein there is less space for poor-quality ingredients. This way dogs will enjoy a more nutritious diet.

What To Look For When Shopping For High Protein Dog Food?

When you shop for high-quality protein dog food you should have the right kind of knowledge on hand.

In practice, this means that you should know hoW to read pet food labels.

This simple skill may sound like channeling or difficult to master, but in reality, it is very simple.

You need to focus on the first few ingredients, as they are usually listed as human food, listed in most to least.

If you truly want to serve your dog only high-quality food you should focus on finding the food that will enhance the dog’s overall health.

That being said, you want to look at the top of the ingredient list and make sure those ingredients are healthy whole foods.

Scan ingredients for animal protein like meat, meat meals, organs, and bones – check if they are balanced.

Why Do Dogs Need High Protein Dog Food?

Just like humans, dogs thrive on the right nutrition.

Not only the right kind of nutrients keeps them healthy, but it helps them live healthier and longer.

Some of the most common high protein diet food for dogs might surprise you, but this type of food is recommended for many great reasons.

Some of the benefits include the growth of lean muscle, improved skin health, improved coat health, and an overall boost to the immune system.

What may happen if a dog does not have enough protein in his diet?

If this happens, it means that his body can begin to break down protein in his body to get what it needs. This is the way a decrease in muscle mass may appear.

Always Consult Your Veterinarian First

Once you get a dog your veterinarian will become your best friend.

Whenever you might have some kind of concern, some troubling information on certain feeding styles, or any doubt about anything health-related you should talk with your veterinarian.

Moreover, if you are thinking about making major health-related changes, like switching your dog from one brand to another, or from a specific feeding style to another one (like switching from a dry to raw dog diet) you should talk with your veterinarian first.

Above you may find the best of the best, some of the best high protein dog foods that any dog should thrive on.

If you are just thinking about switching to any of the listed brands, make sure that you talk with your veterinarian first.

Consulting your veterinarian isn’t only beneficial for your dog, but may also be beneficial to you.

Every dog is different, hence every dog comes with different needs that should be met.

Different nutritional needs are best achieved through proper diet and food.

Make sure that you talk with your veterinarian about your dog’s health and activity level, and your veterinarian will tell you which high protein dog food might be the best choice for your Fido.