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10 Best High Protein Dog Foods 2025 in the United States

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Our Top Picks

#1

Winner

Hill's Science Diet Sensitive Stomach & Skin, Adult 1-6, Stomach & Skin Sensitivity Support, Dry Dog Food, Chicken Recipe, 30 lb Bag

Rating
9.9
Chosen by1,289
Protein Source
Ingredients List

Most important from
19147 reviews

Protein Source
The chicken recipe is tasty, nutritious, and enriched with vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants.
Ingredients List
Free from artificial colors, flavors, and preservatives, this food ensures a natural and wholesome diet.

Hill's Science Diet Sensitive Stomach & Skin for Adult dogs aged 1-6 is a specialized dry dog food formulated to address stomach and skin sensitivities. The primary protein source is chicken, a high-quality ingredient known to be digestible and palatable for most dogs. Hill's is a reputable brand known for meeting nutritional standards, which suggests a balanced protein level suitable for adult dogs within the specified age range.

The product includes prebiotic fiber to support gut health and omega-6 fatty acids and Vitamin E to promote a healthy coat, which are beneficial for dogs with sensitive skin. The ingredients list is designed to be highly digestible, and the food is made in the USA with globally sourced ingredients, ensuring quality and safety. Ideal for dogs with specific dietary needs, this product is best suited for pet owners looking for a reliable, veterinarian-recommended option to address stomach and skin sensitivities.

Rating
9.9
Chosen by1,289
Protein Source
Ingredients List

Most important from
19147 reviews

Protein Source
The chicken recipe is tasty, nutritious, and enriched with vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants.
Ingredients List
Free from artificial colors, flavors, and preservatives, this food ensures a natural and wholesome diet.
#2

ORIJEN Original Dry Dog Food, Grain Free Dog Food for All Life Stages, Fresh or Raw Ingredients, 23.5 lb

Rating
9.8
Protein Content
Ingredients List
Life Stage Appropriateness

Most important from
14317 reviews

Protein Content
Orijen's high protein content and grain-free formula have resolved skin rashes and digestive problems, leading to healthier, happier dogs.
Ingredients List
Standard Poodles eagerly eat Orijen kibble, treating it like a special reward, and the food's high-quality ingredients justify its cost.
Life Stage Appropriateness
Combining Orijen kibble with fresh produce and raw meat provides a balanced diet that supports perfect health and weight for dogs.

ORIJEN Original Dry Dog Food is a high-quality, grain-free option suitable for dogs at any life stage. The product boasts an impressive 85% animal protein content, sourced from high-quality ingredients like chicken, turkey, salmon, whole herring, and chicken liver. This makes it an excellent choice for pet owners seeking a nutrient-dense meal for their dogs, supporting immune function, digestion, and skin and coat health.

The food is made in the USA with globally sourced ingredients, ensuring a high standard of quality and safety. It is also AAFCO certified, meaning it meets the nutritional levels established by the AAFCO Dog Food Nutrient Profiles for all life stages, adding to its reliability and trustworthiness for pet owners. The high protein content might be overwhelming for dogs not used to protein-rich diets, so gradual introduction is recommended to avoid digestive issues.

Additionally, while the grain-free formula is beneficial for dogs with specific sensitivities, it may not be necessary for all dogs and could be more expensive compared to grain-inclusive options. ORIJEN Original Dry Dog Food is a premium product that excels in providing high protein and quality nutrition for dogs of all breeds and life stages, though its suitability and cost should be carefully considered based on individual pet needs.

Rating
9.8
Protein Content
Ingredients List
Life Stage Appropriateness

Most important from
14317 reviews

Protein Content
Orijen's high protein content and grain-free formula have resolved skin rashes and digestive problems, leading to healthier, happier dogs.
Ingredients List
Standard Poodles eagerly eat Orijen kibble, treating it like a special reward, and the food's high-quality ingredients justify its cost.
Life Stage Appropriateness
Combining Orijen kibble with fresh produce and raw meat provides a balanced diet that supports perfect health and weight for dogs.
#3

Purina ONE Natural High Protein Dry Dog Food Dry True Instinct with Real Beef and Salmon With Bone Broth and Added Vitamins, Minerals and Nutrients - 27.5 lb. Bag

Rating
9.6
Ingredients List

Most important from
22556 reviews

Ingredients List
The quality is great, their coats are shiny, their teeth are clean, and they have great digestion, indicating high-quality ingredients.

Purina ONE Natural High Protein Dry Dog Food True Instinct with Real Beef and Salmon is designed for adult dogs. The primary ingredient is real beef, providing a high 32% protein content that supports muscle health, including the heart. Salmon is included as an additional protein source, and it is enriched with vitamins, minerals, and nutrients. This dog food is enhanced with beef bone broth, which is a natural source of collagen, and is made in the USA in Purina-owned facilities.

For health benefits, it includes omega-6 fatty acids for skin and coat health, natural sources of glucosamine for joint support, and no fillers or animal by-products, ensuring every ingredient has a purpose. Its recipe is crafted by a veterinarian-recommended brand and is geared towards adult dogs of all breeds. The food form is kibble, and it claims to have twice the tender morsels compared to other Purina formulas.

This product is ideal for dog owners looking for a high-protein, nutritious option to support their pet's health and well-being.

Rating
9.6
Ingredients List

Most important from
22556 reviews

Ingredients List
The quality is great, their coats are shiny, their teeth are clean, and they have great digestion, indicating high-quality ingredients.

Buying Guide for the Best High Protein Dog Foods

Choosing the right high-protein dog food for your pet is crucial for their overall health and well-being. High-protein diets can support muscle development, energy levels, and overall vitality, especially for active or working dogs. When selecting a high-protein dog food, it's important to consider several key specifications to ensure you're providing the best nutrition for your furry friend. Here are the key specs to look out for and how to navigate them.
Protein SourceThe protein source in dog food is important because it determines the quality and digestibility of the protein. Common sources include chicken, beef, fish, and lamb. Some dogs may have allergies or sensitivities to certain proteins, so it's important to choose a source that your dog can tolerate well. If your dog is very active or a working dog, you might want to opt for a high-quality animal protein. For dogs with allergies, novel proteins like duck or venison might be a better choice.
Protein ContentProtein content is measured as a percentage of the total food composition. This is crucial because it indicates how much protein your dog will get from their diet. Generally, high-protein dog foods will have a protein content of 25% or higher. For very active dogs or those needing muscle repair, look for foods with 30% or more protein. For less active dogs, a protein content of 25-30% should suffice. Always consider your dog's activity level and health needs when choosing the protein content.
Fat ContentFat content in dog food provides essential fatty acids and energy. It's important to balance protein with the right amount of fat. High-protein dog foods often have higher fat content to support energy needs. For active dogs, a fat content of 15-20% is beneficial. For less active or older dogs, a lower fat content of 10-15% might be more appropriate to prevent weight gain. Always consider your dog's energy expenditure and overall health when evaluating fat content.
Carbohydrate ContentCarbohydrates provide energy and fiber, but in high-protein dog foods, they should be present in moderate amounts. Too many carbs can lead to weight gain and other health issues. Look for dog foods where carbohydrates make up less than 30% of the total composition. For dogs with high energy needs, a moderate amount of carbs can be beneficial. For dogs prone to weight gain or with lower activity levels, opt for lower carbohydrate content.
Ingredients ListThe ingredients list is crucial for understanding the quality of the dog food. Look for whole, named meat sources (like 'chicken' or 'beef') as the first ingredient. Avoid foods with vague terms like 'meat by-products' or 'animal meal.' High-quality dog foods will also include vegetables, fruits, and whole grains. If your dog has specific dietary needs or allergies, carefully review the ingredients list to avoid any potential triggers.
AAFCO CertificationThe Association of American Feed Control Officials (AAFCO) sets nutritional standards for pet foods. AAFCO certification ensures that the dog food meets minimum nutritional requirements. Look for a statement on the packaging that indicates the food is 'complete and balanced' according to AAFCO standards. This certification is important to ensure your dog is getting all the necessary nutrients in their diet.
Life Stage AppropriatenessDifferent life stages (puppy, adult, senior) have different nutritional needs. High-protein dog foods should be appropriate for your dog's life stage. Puppies need more protein and fat for growth, while seniors may need less to prevent weight gain. Always choose a dog food that matches your dog's age and life stage to ensure they are getting the right balance of nutrients.

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