Best High Protein Dog Food Reviewed
- Last updated on November 23, 2023
- By: Hebby Bailey
Quality High Protein Dog Food
High protein dog food is a nutritious and wholesome diet for your beloved pet dogs. The primary ingredient of these foods are meat, poultry or fish which gives them the required amount of proteins in their diet. In addition to proteins, they also contain other nutrients like minerals and vitamins that help keep your dog healthy.
Buying commercial dog food with high-quality protein ingredients is important because high-quality proteins contain all the essential amino acids in adequate amounts; this is a great way to increase the amount of protein in your dog’s diet.
Table of Contents
Protein is a key nutrient for dogs. The Association of American Feed Control Officials (AAFCO) recommends a minimum of 18 percent protein, and that protein should contain the essential amino acids, which are the building blocks of the protein in your dog’s body. AAFCO is a voluntary membership association of local, state, and federal agencies charged by law to regulate the sale and distribution of animal feeds (including dog and cat foods) and animal drug remedies. The organization defines and establishes regulations for pet food and feed ingredients, as well as sets standards for nutritional adequacy.
The 10 essential amino acids are arginine, histidine, isoleucine, leucine, lysine, methionine, phenylalanine, threonine, tryptophan, and valine. High-quality meat, organ meat, fish, and eggs contain these essential amino acids needed to keep your dog healthy. Poor quality dog food may not contain these necessary amino acids.
High Protein Dog Food Key Benefits
- Maximizes Growth and Development – A high activity level dog will need more protein to grow, maintain and repair their protein-dependent muscles and organs.
- Bone Development – important for growth and bone development.
- Healthy Bones – supports to the maintenance of normal bones.
- Increase Energy Levels – High protein provides more energy for your active dog.
- Can help to improve a dog’s coat and skin condition.
- May help to reduce Shedding
- Improves Breeding Performance -Protein at high levels is also needed to support the nutritional needs of growing puppies, pregnant and lactating females.
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Top 10 Best High Protein Dog Food
We have evaluated top-rated high protein dog food brands like Solid Gold, Pedigree, Taste of the Wild, IAMs, Victor, Purina, Blue Buffalo, Diamond Naturals, etc. Here are our reviews and recommendations on high-quality high protein dog food for you to choose from based on your dog’s diet needs.
Key ingredients: Beef, Ocean Fish Meal, Pea Protein, Potatoes, Dried Eggs, Chicken Fat, Peas, Dried Tomato Pomace, Natural Flavor, Carrots, Potassium Chloride, Salt, Pumpkin, Blueberries, Cranberries, Salmon Oil, Others, Vitamins, Minerals.
Caloric content: 3,825 kcal/kg, 415 kcal/cup
Available in: 4 lbs, 24 lbs
Nutrition Info (Guaranteed Analysis): Crude Protein 41.0% min, Crude Fat 18.0% min, Crude Fiber 4.0% max, Moisture 10.0% max, Docosahexaenoic Acid (DHA) 0.01% min, Vitamin E 100 IU/kg min, Omega-6 Fatty Acids 1.5% min, Omega-3 Fatty Acids 0.3% min, Ascorbic Acid 100 mg/kg min.
SOLID GOLD high protein dog food is the perfect way to ensure your dog is getting all the nutrients they need for a healthy, active life.
This recipe is specially crafted to provide lean muscles and overall health for dogs of all breeds, sizes, and life stages – including puppies and seniors.
With 41% crude protein, this is one of the highest protein dog foods on the market, making it the perfect choice for active dogs who need a little extra boost.
Plus, whole eggs provide a complete source of essential amino acids, making this food perfect for lean muscle development.
And probiotics help to promote optimal digestive and gut health, so your dog can always be at their best.
Pros:
- High Protein Grain-free Beef, Eggs & Peas Dry Dog Food
- US Sourced Beef. Made in the USA
- High Protein for Active Dogs
- 100% free from grains and gluten
- No artificial preservatives added.
- No corn, wheat or soy.
- Contains prebiotics to promote healthy digestion.
- High protein for strong muscles.
- Includes omega fatty acids for healthy skin and coat and a strong immune system.
Cons:
- It is higher in price compared to other brands on the list.
Key ingredients: Water Buffalo, Lamb Meal, Chicken Meal, Sweet Potatoes, Peas, Potatoes, Chicken Fat (Preserved With Mixed Tocopherols), Egg Product, Roasted Bison, Roasted Venison, Beef, Natural Flavor, Tomato Pomace, Potato Protein, Pea Protein, Ocean Fish Meal, Salt, Choline Chloride, Taurine, Dried Chicory Root, Tomatoes, Blueberries, Raspberries, Yucca Schidigera Extract, Dried Lactobacillus Plantarum Fermentation Product.
Caloric content: 3,719 kcal/kg, 422 kcal/cup
Available in: 5 lbs, 14 lbs, 28 lbs
Nutrition Info (Guaranteed Analysis): Crude Protein 32.0 % min, Crude Fat 18.0% min, Crude Fiber 4.0% max, Moisture 10.0% max, Zinc 150 mg/kg min, Selenium 0.35 mg/kg min, Vitamin E 150 IU/kg min min, Taurine 0.12% min, Omega-6 Fatty Acids 2.8% min, Omega-3 Fatty Acids 0.3% min.
TASTE OF THE WILD High Prairie is a high-protein, grain-free food formula made with real roasted bison and venison as the first ingredients, providing optimal amino acids for strong muscles.
It’s also rich in nutrients, with added vitamins and minerals, fruits, and vegetables which provide the vital energy your four-legged friend needs to thrive.
Made with only high-quality ingredients from trusted sources, this recipe is prepared in a family-owned kitchen in the USA.
Plus, it contains antioxidants to support healthy skin and a shiny coat. And because digestive health is important, this recipe includes a K9 Strain proprietary probiotic blend to help promote healthy digestion processes.
Pros:
- Canine Recipe with Roasted Bison and Roasted Venison
- Provide highly digestible protein with roasted flavor your dog will love
- Made in the USA.
- It is grain-free.
- Includes prebiotics, probiotics, and antioxidants for a healthy digestive and immune system.
- Includes omega fatty acids for healthy skin and shiny coat.
- Antioxidants blend of vegetables and fruits support your dog’s overall health.
- No artificial flavors, colors, or preservatives added.
Cons:
- Contains chicken, eggs, and other common allergens.
Key ingredients: Beef Meal, Grain Sorghum, Chicken Fat, Pork Meal, Chicken Meal, Menhaden Fish Meal, Whole Grain Millet, Dehydrated Alfalfa Meal, Yeast Culture, Natural Flavor, Potassium Chloride, Carrot Powder, Tomato Pomace, Salt, Organic Dried Seaweed Meal, Taurine, L-Carnitine, Selenium Yeast, Brewers Dried Yeast, Others, Vitamins, Minerals.
Caloric content: 3815 kcal/kg, 406 kcal/cup
Available in: 5 lbs, 15 lbs, 40 lbs, 50 lbs
Nutrition Info (Guaranteed Analysis): Crude Protein 30.0% min, Crude Fat 20.0% min, Crude Fiber 3.8% max, Moisture 9.0% max, Linoleic Acid (Omega-6) 2.6% min, Linolenic Acid (Omega-3) 0.4% min, DHA 0.1% min, Zinc 150 mg/kg min, Selenium 0.35 mg/kg min, Vitamin E 150 IU/kg min, L-Carnitine 100 mg/kg min.
VICTOR Hi-Pro Plus is a great recipe with a blend of carefully crafted ingredients of probiotics, prebiotics, selenium yeast, and mineral complexes which help your dog live their lives to the fullest.
Being 100% grain-free, with no corn, wheat, or soy promoting high digestibility, this nutrient rich recipe is loaded with protein from high-quality meat sources. It includes meat from beef, chicken, fish meals and pork strengthening your dog’s lean muscles.
It is also fortified with vitamins, minerals, and essential fatty acids for healthy metabolism, healthy and shiny skin and coats and overall health. Plus, the Victor core ingredients promote healthy immune and digestive systems.
Pros:
- VICTOR VPRO Blend Nutrient-dense, multi-protein formula for Active dogs and puppies
- No corn, wheat, or soy.
- Prebiotics and probiotics promote healthy digestion and a strong immune system.
- Selenium yeast in the recipe supports a healthy metabolism.
- The mineral complexes promote healthy skin and coats.
- It includes all non-GMO, high-quality ingredients.
Cons:
- May not be suitable for dogs with fish allergies.
Key ingredients: Chicken, Whole Grain Corn, Whole Grain Wheat, Corn Gluten Meal, Beef Fat Preserved With Mixed-Tocopherols, Canola Meal, Soybean Meal, Chicken By-Product Meal, Oat Meal, Barley, Brewers Rice, Beef, Calcium Carbonate, Salt, Malted Barley Flour, Dried Sweet Potatoes, Dried Spinach, Others, Vitamins, Minerals.
Caloric content: 3675 kcal/kg, 345 kcal/cup
Available in: 26 lbs
Nutrition Info (Guaranteed Analysis): Crude Protein 26.0% min, Crude Fat 15.5% min, Crude Fiber 4.0% max, Moisture 12.0% max, Calcium (Ca) 1.1% min, Phosphorus (P) 0.95% min, Selenium (Se) 0.4 mg/kg min, Vitamin A 13,000 IU/kg min, Vitamin E 150 IU/kg min.
PURINA Beneful is made with real meat – a blend of chicken and beef – and contains 26 percent protein to help support strong muscles, including a healthy heart.
Plus, its unique texture – a combination of crunchy kibble and tender shreds – is sure to keep your pup coming back for more. And vitally important for any growing dog, it’s also packed with added vitamins and minerals for overall health.
But above all else, what really sets PURINA Beneful apart is its commitment to quality. That’s why there are no artificial flavors, colors, or preservatives in PURINA Beneful – just everything your dog needs and nothing they don’t.
Pros:
- Chicken is the #1 ingredient.
- Has no artificial flavors, colors, or preservatives.
- Made in the USA.
- Includes 26% protein for strong muscles and a healthy heart.
- Consists of vitamins and minerals for overall health.
Cons:
- It includes wheat, corn, and soy.
Key ingredients: Deboned Chicken, Chicken Meal, Peas, Pea Protein, Tapioca Starch, Menhaden Fish Meal, Dried Tomato Pomace, Chicken Fat, Flaxseed, Pea Starch, Natural Flavor, Dried Egg Product, Potatoes, Dried Chicory Root, Pea Fiber, Salt, Potassium Chloride, Sweet Potatoes, Carrots, Others, Vitamins, Minerals.
Caloric content: 3,599 kcal/kg, 409 kcal/cup
Available in: 4.5 lbs, 11 lbs, 20 lbs, 24 lbs
Nutrition Info (Guaranteed Analysis): Crude Protein 34.0% min, Crude Fat 15.0% min, Crude Fiber 6.0% max, Moisture 10.0% max, Calcium 1.4% min, Phosphorus 0.9% min, Omega 3 Fatty Acids 0.5% min, Omega 6 Fatty Acids 2.75% min, Glucosamine 400 mg/kg min.
BLUE BUFFALO Wilderness Dog Food is a high-protein dog food that will help your furry friend build and maintain lean muscle mass.
Made with real chicken, healthy carbohydrates, and Omega 3 & 6 fatty acids, this food is perfect for fuelling your adult dog’s active lifestyle.
Plus, the LifeSource Bits provide a precise blend of antioxidants, vitamins, and minerals to support immune system health and the addition of taurine makes this recipe perfect for your adult dog’s healthy heart functioning.
And you’ll love knowing that there is no wheat, soy, artificial flavors, or preservatives in this delicious food. So keep your best friend happy and healthy with BLUE BUFFALO Wilderness Dog food.
Pros:
- High-protein from real-chicken promoting strong lean muscles.
- Includes healthy complex carbohydrates like peas, potatoes and carrots, and antioxidants..
- Has no chicken or poultry by-product meals.
- No corn, wheat or soy
- No artificial flavors or preservatives
- Made in the USA
- Includes omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids for healthy skin and coat.
- Includes no wheat, soy, artificial flavors, or preservative.
- It includes antioxidants for a healthy immune system and taurine for good cardiac health in adult dogs.
Cons:
- It includes peas which may not be suitable for dogs with pea allergies.
Key ingredients: Chicken meal, chicken, ground white rice, chicken fat, cracked pearled barley, egg product, powdered cellulose, flaxseed, dried beet pulp, natural flavor, potassium chloride, salt, choline chloride, dried chicory root, glucosamine hydrochloride, L-Carnitine, kale, chia seed, pumpkin, blueberries, oranges, quinoa, dried kelp, coconut, spinach, carrots, papaya, others, vitamins, minerals.
Caloric content: 4,107 kcal/kg, 470 kcal/cup
Available in: 6 oz can, 40 lbs
Nutrition Info (Guaranteed Analysis): Crude Protein 32.0% min, Crude Fat 25.0% min, Crude Fiber 4.0% max, Moisture 10.0% max, Zinc 150 mg/kg min, Selenium 0.35 mg/kg min, Vitamin A 10,000 IU/kg min, Vitamin E 150 IU/kg min, Omega-6 Fatty Acids 3.5% min, Omega-3 Fatty Acids 0.5% min, Glucosamine 300 mg/kg min, Chondroitin Sulfate 100 mg/kg min.
DIAMOND Naturals Extreme Athlete High Protein Dog Food is made with real cage-free chicken. This formula is perfect for dogs who need that extra boost of protein to maintain lean, strong muscles.
It is also nutrient-rich and highly digestible, so your pup will be able to absorb all the good stuff quickly and easily.
Plus, probiotics are added to help survive and thrive in the GI tract. It is made in the USA with artificial flavors, colors, and preservatives and is completely grain-free with no corn, wheat, or soy. It is also 100% pea-free.
Suitable for dogs of all breeds, this recipe includes optimal levels of omega fatty acids supporting your dog’s healthy skin and coat.
Feed your super active dog with the high-protein diet they need with DIAMOND Naturals Extreme Athlete High Protein Dog Food.
Pros:
- Dry Dog Food with Cage-Free Chicken for high protein
- Guaranteed levels of glucosamine and chondroitin to support joints and cartilage
- Powerful antioxidants for strong immune system.
- No artificial flavors, colors, or preservatives are added.
- Nutrient-rich formula from natural ingredients like oranges, blueberries, etc.
- Consists of omega fatty acids for healthy skin and coats.
- Made in the USA
- Has no corn, wheat, soy, or peas.
Cons:
- It is not suitable for dogs with poultry sensitivities.
7. PEDIGREE High Protein Dog Food
Key ingredients: Ground whole grain corn, chicken by-product meal, meat and bone meal, animal fat (source of omega 6 fatty acids, ground whole grain wheat, soybean meal, beef, natural flavor, dried plain beet pulp, salt, potassium chloride, lamb meal, brewers rice, folic acid, others, vitamins, minerals.
Caloric content: 3,417 kcal/kg, 315 kcal/cup
Available in: 3.5 lbs, 12.5 lbs, 14 lbs, 16 lbs, 18 lbs, 27 lbs, 30 lbs, 33 lbs, 40 lbs, 44 lbs, 46.8 lbs
Nutrition Info (Guaranteed Analysis): Vitamin E 100 IU/kg, Zinc (Zinc sulphate, monohydrate) 80 mg/kg, Crude Protein 27.0%, Crude Fat 12.0% min, Crude Fiber 4.0%, Phosphorus 0.8%, Calcium 1.0%, Moisture 12.0%.
PEDIGREE High Protein Adult Dry Dog Food is a complete and balanced high-protein dry dog food made in the USA with premium-quality ingredients from trusted sources around the world.
This great-tasting food is made with real red meat and is perfect for active dogs of every breed. The unique crunchy kibble helps keep teeth clean, and there are no artificial flavors or sugar.
Plus, the omega fatty acids in the formula made it perfect, promoting healthy and shiny skin and coat for your dog and the amazing nutrient blend makes it the right recipe for your furry friend’s overall health and fitness.
Pros:
- High Protein from real Red Meat, Adult Dry Dog Food.
- Beef & Lamb Flavor
- No artificial colors, flavors, or sugars are added.
- 100% complete and balanced nutritious diet.
- Suitable for dogs of all sizes.
- Protein-rich recipe for strong lean muscles.
- Enriched with omega 6 fatty acids to help nourish skin and coat.
- Unique crunchy kibble to help clean teeth
- Made in the USA.
Cons:
- Not suitable for dogs with grain sensitivities.
8. IAMS Proactive Health, High Protein Dog Food
Key ingredients: Chicken, Chicken By-Product Meal, Ground Whole Grain Sorghum, Ground Whole Grain Corn, Dried Beet Pulp, Turkey, Chicken Fat, Natural Flavor, Dried Egg Product, Brewers Dried Yeast, Potassium Chloride, Caramel Color, Fish Oil, Carrots, Folic Acid, L-Carnitine, Niacin, Others, Vitamins, Minerals.
Caloric content: 3,838 kcal/kg, 418 kcal/cup
Available in: 6 lbs, 36 lbs, 13.5 lbs, 27 lbs
Nutrition Info (Guaranteed Analysis): Crude Protein 30.0% min, Crude Fat 18.0% min, Crude Fiber 5.0% max, Moisture 10.0% max, Calcium (Ca) 1.2% min, Phosphorus 0.8% min, L-Carnitine 30mg/kg min, Taurine 0.15% min, Omega-6 Fatty Acids 2.5% min, Omega-3 Fatty Acids 0.25% min.
IAMS Proactive Health is a high-protein diet for your adult dog made with real chicken as the first ingredient. This food is perfect for promoting healthy energy and strong, firm muscles.
Plus, the essential minerals support strong bones, joint health, and strong teeth. If you have a highly active dog, IAMS Proactive Health is ideal for helping them maintain their ideal weight.
Additionally, the beet pulp in the recipe is a great ingredient in promoting healthy digestion. And of course, all the essential nutrients are included for heart health and function in active dogs.
Made in the USA with wholesome grains, IAMS Proactive Health is the perfect dinner for your furry friend.
Pros:
- IAMS High protein Adult dog food with real chicken and turkey.
- Essential minerals supports strong bones and joints.
- Contains real chicken as the first ingredient.
- Includes wholesome grains for healthy energy and promotes healthy weight management.
- Has L-Carnitine fo help maintain healthy fat metabolism.
- Includes beet pulp for healthy digestion
- It is made in the USA.
Cons:
- It includes chicken by-product meals.
9. PEDIGREE High Protein Wet Dog Food
Key ingredients: Sufficient water for processing, chicken, meat by-products, wheat flour, salt, wheat gluten, beef, lamb, added color, sodium tripolyphosphate, others, vitamins, minerals.
Caloric content: 868 kcal/kg, 325 kcal/can
Available in: 13.2 oz can.
Nutrition Info (Guaranteed Analysis): Crude Protein 11.0% min, Crude Fate 4.0% min, Crude Fiber 1.0% max, Moisture 82.0% max.
PEDIGREE High Protein Wet Dog Food is an irresistible wet dog food that your pup will love!
Made with real beef and lamb in a delicious gravy, this high-protein wet food is perfect for dogs of all sizes. Plus, it’s 100% complete and balanced, so you can feel good knowing you’re giving your dog the nutrition he needs.
The tasty kibbles have a great texture that your dear dog would not be able to resist. It supports healthy lean muscle and provides the energy necessary for your dog to support healthy living.
So, give your furry friend the tasty mealtime experience he deserves with PEDIGREE High Protein Wet Dog Food.
Pros:
- High Protein Adult Wet Dog Food.
- Made with Real Beef.
- Made in the USA.
- Suitable for adult dogs of all breeds.
- No artificial flavors, no high fructose corn syrup, no sugar added
- Enriched in protein promoting lean muscle mass.
Cons:
- It includes meat by-product meals which may not be preferred by some dog parents.
10. BLUE BUFFALO Wilderness, Canned Dog Food
Key ingredients: Beef, Chicken, Chicken Broth, Chicken Liver, Potatoes, Carrageenan, Flaxseed, Guar Gum, Cassia Gum, Potassium Chloride, Salt, Choline Chloride, Magnesium Sulfate, Zinc Amino Acid Chelate, Iron Amino Acid Chelate, Others, Vitamins, Minerals.
Caloric content: 1,477 Kcals/kg, 523 Kcals/can
Available in: 12.5 oz. can
Nutrition Info (Guaranteed Analysis): Crude Protein 10% min., Crude Fat 9% min., Crude Fiber 1.5% max., Moisture 78.0% max.
BLUE Wilderness Canned Dog Food is a delicious, high-protein, grain-free diet, made with natural ingredients!
Formulated with real beef and chicken, this food is perfect for dogs who need a little extra protein in their diet. And with no corn, wheat, or soy, it’s also great for dogs with allergies.
This tempting beef and chicken grill recipe will have your pup’s tail wagging in anticipation.
Plus, it’s enhanced with vitamins and minerals to keep them healthy and happy. And you’ll love the fact that it contains no corn, wheat, soy, artificial flavors, or preservatives.
So, go ahead and give your furry friend the wilderness adventure they crave with BLUE Wilderness Canned Dog Food.
Pros:
- High Protein Adult Wet Dog Food. Beef and Chicken Grill.
- Real Beef and Chicken are the first ingredients
- It is made in the USA.
- Wholesome Ingredients with no poultry by-product meals included.
- No corn, wheat, or soy included
- Consists of no artificial flavors or preservatives.
- It is rich in protein and other vitamins, minerals, and nutrients for your dog’s overall health and wellness.
Cons:
- It is not suitable for dogs with chicken or poultry allergies.
FAQs
Question: How much protein should I feed my dog?
The amount of protein that you should feed your dog will depend on a number of factors including age, weight and activity level. A good rule of thumb is to aim for more than 20% protein in your dog’s diet if they are an active adult breed. For puppies, senior dogs or smaller breeds, a diet with around 18% protein is typically recommended.
Question: What are the best sources of protein for dogs?
There are many different types of proteins that can be used in high protein dog food. Some of the most common and easily digestible sources of protein for dogs include: chicken, beef, lamb, fish, turkey and eggs.
Question: Will feeding my dog high protein food make them fat?
No, as long as you are feeding the correct amount of food based on your dog’s individual needs, they should not gain weight from eating high protein dog food. In fact, a high protein diet can actually help to maintain a healthy weight by helping your dog to build lean muscle mass.
Question: Where can I find high protein dog food for my dog?
There are many different options when it comes to finding high protein dog food for your pet. You can purchase pre-made formulas from the pet store or your local vet, or you can choose to make your own blends at home using fresh ingredients. Some popular online retailers and brands that offer a wide selection of high protein dog foods include DogLoversPup, Solid Gold, Blue Buffalo, Taste of The Wild. Whatever your preference, there are plenty of options to choose from when it comes to finding the best food for your dog’s needs.
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Author:
Hebby Bailey
- Updated on November 23, 2023
Disclaimer: This article doesn’t intend to replace professional veterinary advice, nor should it be used as a substitute for veterinary services, diagnosis, or treatment. The content on this website, including information and opinions expressed herein, are intended for general informational purposes only. In case you have concerns or questions regarding your dog’s health and diet requirements, please consult your veterinarian before doing anything that might affect it.
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