Does your dog gobble down dinner but still seem a little sluggish? You want the best for your furry friend, right? Feeding them the right food makes a huge difference in their energy and health. But stepping into the dog food aisle can feel like navigating a jungle. So many bags promise “all-natural” or “premium,” and figuring out what “holistic” really means is tough.
Choosing a rated holistic dog food means looking for quality ingredients that truly support your dog’s whole well-being—body and mind. It’s frustrating when you spend good money only to wonder if you picked the right one. We get it. That confusion stops here.
In this post, we break down what makes a holistic dog food truly top-rated. You will learn exactly what labels to look for, which ingredients boost health, and how to match the best food to your dog’s specific needs. Get ready to feel confident about what’s in your dog’s bowl as we dive into the top contenders for healthy, happy pups.
Top Rated Holistic Dog Food Recommendations
- DIGESTIVE HEALTH: Optimal levels of protein plus prebiotics and probiotics, digestive enzymes, and dietary fiber in this dog food enhance digestion for your dog
- HEALTHY SKIN AND COAT: Omega 3 fatty acids from salmon oil and flaxseed to support healthy skin and coat
- WHOLE BODY HEALTH: Supported by omega fatty acids, antioxidants, glucosamine, probiotics and taurine for a healthy heart
- Made in the USA using only the finest globally sourced ingredients, we prepare each of our diets in our own state of the art facility; we craft delicious natural recipes with wholesome ingredients chosen for their nutritional benefits
- QUALITY NUTRITION: We craft delicious natural recipes with wholesome ingredients that your pup will love, chosen for their nutritional benefits
- DIGESTIVE HEALTH: Optimal levels of protein plus prebiotics and probiotics, digestive enzymes, and dietary fiber in this dog food enhance digestion for your dog
- HEALTHY SKIN AND COAT: Omega 3 fatty acids from salmon oil and flaxseed to support healthy skin and coat
- WHOLE BODY HEALTH: Supported by omega fatty acids, antioxidants, glucosamine, probiotics and taurine for a healthy heart
- Made in the USA using only the finest globally sourced ingredients, we prepare each of our diets in our own state of the art facility; we craft delicious natural recipes with wholesome ingredients chosen for their nutritional benefits
- QUALITY NUTRITION: We craft delicious natural recipes with wholesome ingredients that your pup will love, chosen for their nutritional benefits
- 3.5lb. bag of Halo Holistic Plant-Based Recipe with Superfoods dry adult dog food: Vegan dog food made with no animal ingredients.
- 100% complete and balanced, plant-based dog food with added vitamins and minerals for adult dogs: Natural dog food made with non-GMO ingredients, no corn, wheat or soy, and no artificial flavors, preservatives or colors.
- High-quality ingredients: This vegetarian dog food is cooked in the USA with high-quality ingredients for optimal nutrition and digestive support.
- Complete digestive health: Prebiotics, probiotics and postbiotics provide digestive care and immune support for dogs.
- Healthy skin and coat for dogs: This holistic dog food is made with an optimal balance of omega fatty acids.
- FISH PROTEIN: Herring meal is the #1 ingredient in this coastal recipe. Our wild-caught herring, salmon, and Pacific Whiting fish proteins are highly digestible and help your dog maintain top body condition and overall health.
- SUPERFOOD BLEND: Superfoods including flaxseed, blueberries, and cranberries help support excellent digestion and nutrient absorption.
- HEART HEALTH: Enriched with added Taurine and Methionine to help support your dog’s heart health. Keep your furry friend’s vibrant, playful spirit going strong for years to come.
- GRAIN-FREE: Made without grain, gluten, or white potatoes, this special recipe is perfect as a highly nutritious alternative diet.
- MADE IN USA: Earthborn Holistic is proudly made in our fourth generation, family-owned kitchens in the USA.
- Exceptional grain inclusive dog nutrition made in USA kitchens.
- Fresh salmon is the first ingredient! Rich in Omega-3s, this novel protein supports brain development, good vision & healthy skin & coat for dogs & puppies, even large breeds.
- Nutrition dense ancient grains like barley, oats, quinoa & chia are less refined, making them easily digestible & a great choice for dogs with sensitive stomachs.
- Natural fibers from pumpkin, butternut squash, apples, spinach (& many more) support healthy digestion, along with prebiotic inulin & probiotics for good gut health. Vitamin E provides antioxidant support for strong immunity.
- Bag made from 25% recycled material. - Love Your Pet. Love Your Planet.
- DIGESTIVE HEALTH: Optimal levels of protein plus prebiotics and probiotics, digestive enzymes, and dietary fiber in this dog food enhance digestion for your large breed dog
- HEALTHY HIPS AND JOINTS: Calcium, phosphorus, glucosamine and chondroitin maintain bone strength and joint health
- WHOLE BODY HEALTH: Supported by omega fatty acids, antioxidants, glucosamine, probiotics and taurine for a healthy heart
- Made in the USA using only the finest globally sourced ingredients, we prepare each of our diets in our own state of the art facility; we craft delicious natural recipes with wholesome ingredients chosen for their nutritional benefits
- QUALITY NUTRITION: We craft delicious natural recipes with wholesome ingredients that your pup will love, chosen for their nutritional benefits
- Lamb Protein: Lamb meal is the #1 ingredient in this tasty recipe
- Pea-Free: Made without peas, lentils, or legumes
- Taurine: Enriched with Taurine to help support heart health
- Limited Ingredient: A limited-ingredient diet to support sensitive stomachs
- Superfoods: Nutrient-rich superfoods like pumpkin, blueberries and cranberries
- Exceptional grain inclusive dog nutrition made in USA kitchens.
- Both novel proteins, fresh lamb is paired with Omega-3 rich salmon meal, which helps support brain development, good vision & healthy skin & coat for dogs & puppies, even large breeds.
- Nutrition dense ancient grains like barley, oats, quinoa & chia are less refined, making them easily digestible & a great choice for dogs with sensitive stomachs.
- Natural fibers from pumpkin, butternut squash, apples, spinach (& many more) support healthy digestion, along with prebiotic inulin & probiotics for good gut health. Vitamin E provides antioxidant support for strong immunity.
- Bag made from 25% recycled material. - Love Your Pet. Love Your Planet.
Your Guide to Choosing the Best Rated Holistic Dog Food
Picking the right food for your dog is a big deal. You want food that keeps them healthy and happy. Rated holistic dog food aims to provide just that—a natural, well-rounded diet. This guide helps you understand what to look for so you make the best choice for your furry friend.
Key Features to Look For in Rated Holistic Food
When you shop for holistic dog food, certain things stand out. These features tell you the food is high quality.
- Whole Food Ingredients: Good food lists real meat, like chicken or beef, as the very first ingredient. Avoid foods where grains or fillers come first.
- No Artificial Junk: Look for labels that promise “No artificial colors, flavors, or preservatives.” These extras don’t help your dog.
- Balanced Nutrition: The food must meet standards set by organizations like AAFCO (Association of American Feed Control Officials). This ensures your dog gets the right mix of vitamins and minerals.
- Added Superfoods: Many top brands include things like blueberries, sweet potatoes, or flaxseed. These offer extra vitamins and antioxidants.
Important Ingredients: What Should Be In The Bag?
The ingredients list is your roadmap to quality. Understanding what’s inside matters a lot.
Protein Sources
High-quality protein is essential for strong muscles. Real animal protein should top the list. Good choices include deboned chicken, turkey, salmon, or lamb. If you see “meat meal,” check what kind of meat it is. “Chicken meal” is usually okay, but vague terms are less ideal.
Healthy Fats and Carbohydrates
Dogs need healthy fats for energy and a shiny coat. Look for sources like fish oil or chicken fat. For carbs, choose complex ones. Whole grains like brown rice or oats, or vegetables like peas and lentils, provide steady energy.
What to Avoid
Steer clear of by-products, corn, wheat, and soy if possible. These are often cheap fillers. Also, watch out for chemical preservatives like BHA or BHT. Your dog deserves better, cleaner fuel.
Factors That Improve or Reduce Quality
The way the food is made greatly affects its quality. Processing methods matter.
Quality Boosters
Foods that use gentle cooking methods, like lower-temperature extrusion, help keep nutrients locked in. Also, brands that invest heavily in research and testing usually offer more reliable nutrition. Transparency from the company is a big plus.
Quality Reducers
Over-processing destroys many natural vitamins. If the ingredient list is confusing or full of chemical names, the quality likely suffers. Food sitting on shelves for too long also loses potency, even if it is high quality to start with.
User Experience and Use Cases
How does switching to rated holistic food actually look in real life?
Visible Health Improvements
Owners often report positive changes quickly. You might notice your dog has more energy. Their coat often becomes shinier and softer. Stool quality usually improves too, becoming firmer and smaller because the dog digests more of the food.
Who Should Use This Food?
Rated holistic food suits most dogs. It is excellent for active dogs needing dense nutrition. It is also a great choice for dogs with mild sensitivities, as the simpler, whole-food ingredients are often easier to digest. Always consult your vet before making a major food switch, especially if your dog has serious health issues.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) About Rated Holistic Dog Food
Q: What exactly does “holistic” mean in dog food?
A: Holistic generally means the food considers your dog’s total well-being. It focuses on natural, high-quality ingredients that support overall health, not just basic survival.
Q: Is rated holistic food always more expensive?
A: Yes, usually it costs more. Better ingredients and careful processing cost more money. Think of it as investing in your dog’s long-term health.
Q: How long does it take to see results after switching food?
A: You might see small changes in energy within a week. However, for full benefits like a healthier coat or better digestion, give it about six to eight weeks.
Q: Can I feed this food to my puppy?
A: Many brands make specific puppy formulas. These have the right balance of fats and proteins for growing dogs. Always check the bag to ensure it is labeled for “All Life Stages” or specifically for puppies.
Q: Are there any risks when switching to this type of food?
A: The main risk is digestive upset if you switch too fast. You must transition slowly over seven to ten days by mixing old food with new food.
Q: What if my dog does not like the taste?
A: Sometimes dogs resist new flavors. Try adding a little warm water or low-sodium broth to the kibble to enhance the smell and taste. If they refuse it completely, try a different protein source from the same rated brand.
Q: Does “rated” mean it has been tested by the government?
A: “Rated” usually refers to consumer reviews or expert scoring, not mandatory government testing. Always check that the company follows AAFCO guidelines for nutritional adequacy.
Q: Should I still give my dog supplements if they eat this food?
A: If the food is complete and balanced (AAFCO approved), supplements are usually not needed. Check with your vet if you think your dog needs extra help.
Q: Where is the best place to buy rated holistic dog food?
A: You can find it at specialty pet stores, reputable online retailers, or sometimes directly from the manufacturer. Buying from trusted sources helps ensure the food is fresh.
Q: What is the difference between “natural” and “holistic”?
A: “Natural” means few artificial ingredients. “Holistic” is a broader term suggesting a complete approach to nutrition, usually including higher quality ingredients than just “natural” food.