Ever wondered why two dogs on the same “premium” food can look and feel completely different? The truth is, not all dog foods sold in the UK live up to their labels. Some are packed with fillers and artificial additives that do little for your dog’s health—while others use human-grade ingredients that can transform their energy, coat, and longevity. But how do you tell the difference? And more importantly, which foods are genuinely worth your money? In this guide, we’ll break down the best dog foods in the UK across every category—from dry and wet to grain-free and raw options—so you can confidently choose what truly nourishes your dog inside and out.
Best Dog Foods in The UK
Here are the best dog foods in the UK this year.
Best Overall Dog Food UK
4.8
★★★★★
Butternut Box
Who It’s For: Dog owners who want a balanced and most nutritious diet made from human-grade ingredients to support optimal health, energy, and longevity in dogs.
Why we recommended it:Butternut Box Fresh Dog Food offers freshly prepared meals made from 100% human-grade ingredients, ensuring optimal nutrition and taste. Each portion is gently cooked to preserve nutrients and vacuum-sealed for freshness. The brand’s subscription service customizes meal plans based on your dog’s needs, making feeding effortless and consistent. We like how the recipes include real meat (such as beef, chicken, lamb, or turkey) paired with wholesome veggies like lentils and carrots for balanced nutrition. It’s also a great option for picky eaters due to its natural aroma and taste. The meals are formulated by vets and nutritionists, offering a perfect blend of convenience and quality.
What sets it apart from competitors: Unlike typical dry or mass-produced foods, Butternut Box delivers freshly cooked meals directly to your door, with each portion pre-measured for your dog’s size. It uses no rendered meats, by-products, or preservatives—just real food you could eat yourself. Its personalized feeding plans and recyclable packaging further emphasize its premium, eco-conscious approach.
Best Dry Dog Food UK
4.7
★★★★★
Lily’s Kitchen
Who It’s For: Dog owners who prefer a convenient, shelf-stable kibble that delivers complete nutrition with quality protein and essential nutrients for everyday health and vitality.
Why we recommended it: The Lily’s Kitchen Adult Dry Dog Food delivers a complete adult-dog diet featuring named meats (e.g., chicken & duck or lamb) and vegetables as primary ingredients, making it more digestible and transparent than many generic kibbles. It complies with European nutrient standards for adult maintenance. We like that the fat level is moderate (not overly high), which makes it suitable for maintaining weight rather than promoting large surges in body condition. Additionally, many appreciate the inclusion of herbs, vegetables, and prebiotics to support digestion and coat health. One drawback we note: some feedback indicates that changes in formulation or kibble digestibility have caused digestive upset in a small number of dogs.
What sets it apart from competitors: Lily’s Kitchen emphasizes named meat sources, natural vegetables, and botanicals in its ingredient list. The brand also markets itself as “made with natural ingredients” and avoids more obscure additives.
Best Wet Dog Food UK
4.5
★★★★★
Forthglade
Who It’s For: Ideal for dog owners seeking a moisture-rich, flavorful meal that supports hydration, easy digestion, and provides a tasty alternative to dry kibble.
Why we recommended it: The Forthglade Grain-Free & Hypoallergenic Wet Dog Food provides complete nutrition using 75% real meat (chicken, turkey, or duck) with added vegetables and minerals for balanced health. The gentle slow-cooking method helps retain flavor and nutrients, making it more digestible and appealing to picky eaters. We like that it’s hypoallergenic—free from grains, dairy, artificial colors, and preservatives—making it safe for sensitive stomachs. Each tray is portion-controlled and made in Devon, UK, ensuring freshness and consistency. The texture and aroma often encourage better eating habits in dogs who refuse dry food.
What sets it apart from competitors: Unlike many wet foods with high water content and vague meat sources, Forthglade lists exact protein percentages and uses clearly labeled meats. Its grain-free formulation and recyclable packaging reflect the brand’s focus on both pet and planet health, distinguishing it from cheaper mass-market options.
Best Puppy Food UK
4.6
★★★★★
Burns
Who It’s For: Growing puppies who need a diet packed with protein, DHA, and essential minerals to support healthy development and strong bones.
Why we recommended it: The Burns Puppy Original Hypoallergenic Dry Dog Food features highly digestible brown rice and chicken meal, providing steady energy and supporting healthy growth. The formula, developed by veterinary surgeon John Burns, offers a balanced nutrient profile promoting lean muscle development without overfeeding calories. It’s free from artificial additives, preservatives, and colorants, which reduces the risk of irritation in young dogs’ digestive systems. We like that it supports controlled growth — an essential factor in avoiding skeletal issues in developing puppies.
What sets it apart from competitors: The food addresses common puppy sensitivities and supports skin, coat, and immune system health, backed by a hypoallergenic formula free from artificial colors, flavors, or preservatives.
Best Senior Dog Food UK
4.5
★★★★★
Vet’s Kitchen
Who It’s For: Dog owners who want to nourish aging dogs with a gentle, lower-calorie diet rich in joint-supporting nutrients and antioxidants for vitality in later years.
Why we recommended it: The Vet’s Kitchen Protect & Care Complete Dry Senior Dog Food features salmon as its primary protein source, which provides high-quality animal protein and a palatable flavor for older dogs. It contains 97% more glucosamine and MSM and 100% more chondroitin than the brand’s Everyday Health range, aiming to support joint mobility in the senior phase. Many users report that their senior dogs show better ease in movement and coat condition after switching, but I note that the protein level is modest compared to some high-end senior formulas, so very active senior dogs might require supplementation.
What sets it apart from competitors: Targeted joint-care supplementation and reduced fat. Many senior dry foods concentrate just on lower calories or joint support, but few pair that with allergen-sensitive design and a decent salmon-rich meat percentage. The brand also publishes detailed additive levels and analytical constituents (glucosamine, taurine, L-carnitine) which gives transparency often missing in lower-tier options.
Best Grain-Free Dog Food UK
4.7
★★★★★
Wellness Core
Who It’s For: Dog owners who want a grain-free formula to support sensitive digestion and maintain lean muscle using high-quality animal proteins and alternative carbs.
Why we recommended it: The Wellness CORE Grain-Free Adult Low Fat Dry Dog Food offers high-quality animal protein and a solid balance for lean muscle maintenance while reducing overall calorie intake. It’s enriched with L-carnitine to help metabolize fat and maintain muscle tone, alongside glucosamine and chondroitin for joint health. We like that it includes prebiotics, probiotics, and omega fatty acids to support digestion, coat health, and immunity. The lower fat content makes it a smart pick for dogs managing weight without losing strength or energy.
What sets it apart from competitors: Combination of a truly grain-free formula focused on fresh meat plus scientifically supported joint and digestive health aids. The product is crafted for weight management without compromising protein levels or palatability, making it stand out among other grain-free dog foods that may not balance calories and nutrition as skillfully.
Best Freeze-Dried Dog Food UK
4.5
★★★★★
Natures Menu
Who It’s For: Dog owners seeking raw nutrition in a convenient format, offering high protein, minimal processing, and the taste and benefits of real meat.
Why we recommended it: The Natures Menu Complete Freeze Dried Dog Food features 80% meat and offal, supplemented by 20% fruits, vegetables, vitamins, and minerals, making it a fully balanced and complete meal for dogs. We recommend this product because it locks in the natural nutrition and flavor of raw ingredients without artificial preservatives or grains. Its nutrient profile is rich, supporting efficient muscle maintenance and energy needs. We also appreciate the addition of superfoods like flaxseed, kale, and cranberries to support digestion, immune health, and coat condition. The overall formulation supports excellent digestive wellbeing. The made-in-Norfolk provenance also ensures quality control and ethical ingredient sourcing.
What sets it apart from competitors: Meticulous freeze-drying method, which locks in raw food nutrition in an easy-to-serve, non-refrigerated format. Its focus on single-source hypoallergenic proteins reduces allergen risks, and the rich superfood blend enhances health beyond basic nutrition.
Best Hypoallergenic Dog Food UK
4.6
★★★★★
James Wellbeloved
Who It’s For: Dog owners who have pups with allergies or food sensitivities and want a limited-ingredient recipe that reduces itching, irritation, and digestive discomfort.
Why we recommended it: The James Wellbeloved Adult Hypoallergenic Dry Dog Food features a named meat (for example turkey) as its sole meat protein in many variants, helping reduce the potential for adverse ingredient reactions. It excludes many recognised allergens—beef, pork, soya, eggs, dairy and wheat—which means it’s set up for easier digestion in dogs with sensitivities. The brand incorporates added prebiotics (such as chicory extract) to support gut health, plus omega-6 fatty acids and zinc for skin and coat support. We like that the calorie content is clearly listed in the grain-free version, which aids portion control.
What sets it apart from competitors: Hpoallergenic approach (excluding the major known allergen ingredients) combined with clear, honest labelling. The brand makes a point of single-source animal protein and simpler carbohydrate ingredients (potato, peas), which are often more digestible. Also, its manufacturing origin (UK) and the inclusion of extras like yucca extract for odour control add value beyond the core nutrition.
Best Dog Food for Sensitive Stomachs UK
4.7
★★★★★
Pooch & Mutt
Who It’s For: Great for dogs that experience digestive upset and need a gentle, highly digestible formula that’s easy on the gut and promotes balanced digestion.
Why we recommended it: The Pooch & Mutt Health & Digestion Dry Dog Food contains 45% Scottish salmon, chosen for its digestibility, alongside prebiotic fibers like sweet potato, psyllium husk and and mannan-oligosaccharides that encourage healthy gut motility and firm stools. We recommend this product because it combines a vet-recommended formulation with natural ingredients such as parsley as a natural deodoriser and antioxidant-rich components to reduce stool odour and promote urinary tract health. The inclusion of NUTRA-BIONIC—a proprietary supplement blend—adds joint support with glucosamine and chondroitin, skin and coat nourishment, and digestive health aids via pre and probiotics. I appreciate how it addresses multiple health issues simultaneously, making it a rounded choice for dogs struggling with digestion.
What sets it apart from competitors: A holistic vet-approved blend of high-quality salmon protein combined with a unique supplement package tailored to multi-faceted health, including digestion, skin, coat, and urinal health.
Best Dog Food for Small Breeds UK
4.5
★★★★★
Royal Canin
Who It’s For: Small dogs who need a nutrient-dense recipe with smaller kibble size tailored for their high metabolism and dental health.
Why we recommended it: The Royal Canin Mini Adult Dry Dog Food offers a balanced nutrient profile providing the ideal energy supply for small, active dogs. It includes L-carnitine to promote efficient fat metabolism and maintain lean muscle mass. EPA and DHA from fish oil support skin health and a glossy coat, while a precise kibble shape and flavouring system enhance palatability—a key advantage for picky eaters. We like that it’s backed by extensive nutritional testing and veterinary input, ensuring consistent quality and digestibility.
What sets it apart from competitors: Crafted specifically for the physiological and digestives needs of small breeds, not just a generic “adult” formula. The small, crunchy kibble matches the jaw structure of tiny dogs, and the nutritional profile balances weight control with sufficient energy and palatability.
Best Dog Food for Large Breeds UK
4.6
★★★★★
PRO PLAN
Who It’s For: Dig dogs that need a joint-friendly formula rich in protein and essential nutrients to maintain muscle mass and healthy weight control.
Why we recommended it: The PRO PLAN Large Robust Adult Everyday Nutrition Dry Dog Food features chicken as the #1 ingredient supporting lean muscle while avoiding excessive weight gain. It’s formulated with glucosamine and EPA, which help maintain joint flexibility and mobility—crucial for large, heavy-set breeds. We like that it includes an antioxidant blend and omega-3 fatty acids to protect against oxidative stress and support immune and skin health. The formula’s moderate calorie density also helps maintain ideal body condition for dogs with slower metabolism.
What sets it apart from competitors: This product is tailored for “robust” body types, emphasizing joint protection, muscle tone, and heart support over raw calorie loading. It’s backed by Purina’s research team of veterinarians and nutritionists, and its inclusion of prebiotics and DHA for overall vitality gives it a more complete large-breed focus than many similarly priced kibbles.
Best Dog Food Topper UK
4.7
★★★★★
Encore
Who It’s For: Ideal for picky eaters or dogs needing an extra nutritional boost, adding flavor, hydration, and variety to regular meals without compromising nutrition.
Why we recommended it: The Encore Natural Adult Wet Dog Food Selection in Jelly contains recipes made with real meat — in the Chicken Selection version, chicken breast at 55% is listed. Its “natural ingredients” claim is backed by the absence of artificial colours, flavours or preservatives in the listed product benefits. We like that this product can be used either on its own (for dogs requiring wet diet) or as a topper/mixer alongside dry food, enabling flexibility and making it easier to improve appetite or provide variety. The high moisture content supports hydration, which is beneficial for adult dogs who may drink less or have lower activity. Some dogs reportedly find it highly palatable — I note one user said it helped a previously fussy dog start eating again thanks to the meaty texture and smell.
What sets it apart from competitors: The jelly texture enhances palatability and meal excitement, particularly useful for finicky eaters or as a hydration booster. Encore’s variety pack enables easy rotation and prevents mealtime monotony.
Best Food for Medium Dog Breeds UK
4.5
★★★★★
Royal Canin
Who It’s For: Dog owners seeking a balanced diet that supports moderate energy levels, lean muscle maintenance, and overall wellness in medium-sized breeds.
Why we recommended it: The Royal Canin Medium Adult Dry Dog Food levels support lean muscle maintenance without feeding excess energy, which is useful for medium breeds that may gain fat more easily than smaller dogs. It also includes an “exclusive antioxidant complex” (vitamins C and E) and prebiotics to support immune-health and digestive balance. The kibble is specially shaped for medium dogs, enhancing chewing and digestion, and the formula promotes ideal weight and muscle mass. We like how the formula is explicitly size-tailored rather than being a generic adult dog food.
What sets it apart from competitors: Not just adult dogs broadly, but medium adult dogs with specific nutrient, kibblesize and metabolic needs. Many rival foods treat adult dogs as one group. This formula adds a tailored kibble shape, size-specific manoeuvres (digestibility, nutrient absorption) and research-backed antioxidant blend. The transparency of analytical figures and size-specific nutrient alignment give it an edge.
Other Dog Foods in The UK
Best Vegan Dog Food UK: Edgard Cooper Plant-Based Grain Free Dog Food Dry is a standout choice for eco-conscious pet parents seeking a nutritious, meat-free option. This grain-free recipe is crafted with natural, plant-based proteins like peas and potatoes, providing complete nutrition without animal ingredients. It includes omega-rich oils and prebiotics for healthy skin, digestion, and coat shine. The addition of blackcurrants and blueberries delivers antioxidants that support immunity. Dogs with meat allergies or sensitive stomachs benefit from this hypoallergenic, sustainable recipe that tastes great while supporting a cruelty-free lifestyle.
Best Weight Management Dog Food UK: Arden Grange Adult Dry Dog Food Light wins as the top pick for managing canine weight thanks to its reduced-calorie formula without compromising nutrition. Made with fresh chicken and rice, it’s packed with high-quality protein to maintain lean muscle mass. L-carnitine supports fat metabolism, while added joint supplements like glucosamine and chondroitin protect active or senior dogs’ mobility. The low-fat content helps overweight dogs reach a healthy weight gradually and safely. We like that it’s free from artificial colors, flavors, and preservatives—making it a wholesome, vet-recommended choice for dogs needing portion control.
Best Organic or Natural Dog Food UK: Nature’s Variety Selected Complete Dry Food earns its place as the best natural dog food for its clean, minimally processed ingredients. It uses free-run chicken as the first ingredient, combined with sweet potatoes and peas for balanced energy. This recipe is free from artificial additives, preservatives, and grains, supporting sensitive digestion and sustained vitality. The inclusion of natural antioxidants and omega fatty acids enhances immunity, coat, and skin health. It’s perfect for pet owners who prioritize transparency, natural sourcing, and balanced nutrition without fillers or by-products.
Best Budget Dog Food UK: Harringtons Complete Dry Adult Dog Food is the top budget-friendly option that doesn’t cut corners on quality. With lamb and rice as the main ingredients, it delivers easily digestible protein and energy for active dogs. The formula includes natural antioxidants, omega-6 oils, and citrus extracts to support immune function and coat health. Free from artificial colors and flavors, it’s a wholesome, UK-made choice for value-conscious owners. We love that it provides balanced nutrition at an affordable price, making premium-quality feeding accessible to every dog household.
Best Food for Dental Care UK: IAMS Complete Dry Dog leads the pack for promoting dental health thanks to its crunchy kibble texture that helps reduce plaque and tartar buildup. Made with high-quality chicken, it provides complete and balanced nutrition for daily feeding. The formula contains essential minerals and vitamins that strengthen teeth and bones while supporting digestion and coat health. IAMS’ advanced fiber blend also helps freshen breath and maintain gum health. It’s a great pick for owners looking to combine everyday nutrition with long-term oral hygiene benefits.
The Bottom Line
Finding the right dog food isn’t just about price or branding—it’s about giving your dog the nutrition they need to thrive. With so many options on UK shelves, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed or misled by flashy packaging and vague ingredient lists. By focusing on transparency, ingredient quality, and your dog’s unique needs, you can make choices that truly support their long-term health and happiness. Whether you prefer raw, dry, wet, or grain-free, the best dog food for your dog is one that keeps their tail wagging, their coat shiny, and their body strong—every single day.
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Sources
Canine Bible uses only high-quality sources, including peer-reviewed studies, to support the facts within our articles. Read our editorial process and product review methodology to learn more about how we fact-check, test products, and keep our content accurate, reliable, and trustworthy.
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