Purina is a staple brand in many homes of pet owners. Purina’s quest for quality has made them a global frontrunner in the pet food industry. Many dog owners prefer Purina because they have a wide array of dog food options to choose from.
Purina offers products tailor-fit for the different nutritional needs of dogs. If you are planning to switch, choosing the right product can be a daunting task. So, we gathered some information so you’ll know the 12 best Purina dog foods.
12 Best Purina Dog Foods
The table below shows a snapshot of the best Purina dog foods we picked. It also presents the ratings given by many dog owners who bought the product. You can find the detailed descriptions of each Purina product after the table.
| Product Name | Description | Rating |
|---|---|---|
| Purina ONE SmartBlend | Lamb and rice formula dry adult dog food for all dog breeds | ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ |
| Purina Beneful Healthy Weight | Premium-quality dry dog food. It’s a weight management option for adult dogs. | ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ |
| Purina Pro Plan High Protein | Nutrient-dense formula for puppies of all breeds. Contains DHA for growth and development | ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ |
| Purina Beyond Natural | Grain-free and poultry-free dog food for sensitive dogs. It’s packed with nutrients and comes in salmon flavor | ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ |
| Purina Moist & Meaty Wet Dog Food | Soft food individually packed that can be fed as a meal, a treat, or a meal topper. | ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ |
| Purina Puppy Chow High Protein | A protein-rich puppy food that is budget-friendly. | ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ |
| Purina Dog Chow Complete Adult | An affordable beef-flavored adult dog food. It comes in dry kibbles. | ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ |
| Purina Pro Plan Adult Shredded Blend | Alamb-flavored dog food that contains glucosamine, Omega fatty acids, and probiotics. | ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ |
| Purina ONE Natural High Protein True Instinct | Beef and salmon-flavored dry kibble for muscle and heart support. Contains glucosamine for joint health. | ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ |
| Purina Pro Plan Complete Essential Adult Canned | Canned wet food with real chicken. Contains high-quality protein, blended with rice in a paste consistency. | ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ |
| Purina Pro Plan Adult Sensitive Skin & Stomach | Salmon and rice formula that is free from corn, wheat, and soy. Contains omega fatty acids, probiotics, and prebiotic fiber. | ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ |
| Purina Pro Plan 30/20 | Chicken-flavored dog food with 30% protein and 20% fat. Good for dogs with active lifestyles. | ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ |
1. Purina ONE Natural SmartBlend
Purina ONE Natural Dry Dog Food SmartBlend Lamb & Rice formula boasts health benefits for dogs of all breeds. Its main ingredient is lamb, which is a good source of glucosamine for dogs’ joint health. It offers B-vitamins and dual defense antioxidants for a good immune system. The Omega-3 fatty acids make it a good choice for dogs’ healthy and shiny coats.
The mix of meaty lamb morsels ad dry kibbles offers a good combination for your dog. The SmartBlend Lamb and Rice Formula are more affordable than the similar Blue Buffalo Life Protection Formula Adult Lamb & Brown Rice Recipe Dry Dog Food. However, the Purina formula contains grains that may not be suitable for managing dogs’ weight. It also contains chicken, which is a common allergen for dogs.
Pros
- Lamb is the primary ingredient
- Contains fatty acids and glucosamine for health
- Good price
Cons
- Not grain-free
- Contains allergens
2. Purina Beneful Healthy Weight
Purina Beneful Healthy Weight Dry Dog Food with Farm-Raised Chicken offers a preservative-free formulation. This premium dog food’s primary ingredient is US farm-raised chickens. No artificial flavors or colorings were used and the sources are natural. Each cup of dog food boasts 25 mg of protein to help develop strong and healthy muscles in dogs.
It also has fruits and vegetables offering vitamins and minerals for your dog’s needs. This formula is best for weight management for all dog breeds. This formula is best for weight management for all dog breeds. So if you are controlling your dog’s weight, this is a great option without compromising the nutrients he gets. Prepare to pay a little bit higher though. It is also not grain-free or gluten-free and contains allergens.
Pros
- Packed with proteins
- Has fruits and vegetables
- Weight control
Cons
- Not grain-free
- Pricey
3. Purina Pro Plan High Protein
If you are looking for a great choice of puppy food, then go for Purina Pro Plan High Protein Dry Puppy Food. It is nutrient-rich which is ideal for your growing pal. It also offers DHA for good brain development during your pup’s growth years. Take note, that puppies need extra nutrients compared to adult dogs.
This is best for puppies up to one year old. With this dog food, you can ensure that your pup gets the nutrition he needs during his first year of life. It is available for all breed sizes. Chicken is its main ingredient which may be an allergen to sensitive dogs, so you’ll have to be careful though. This formulation can also be more expensive than other similar variants in the market.
Pros
- Good for all breeds
- Contains DHA and Omega fatty acids
- Packed with nutrients
Cons
- Not grain-free
- May contain allergens
- Costs more than its competitors
4. Purina Beyond Natural Superfood Blend
If you are looking for a natural and grain-free option, Purina Beyond Natural Dry Dog Foof, Superfood Blend Salmon, Egg & Pumpkin is your best bet. It is labeled as a superfood for a reason. This is packed with antioxidants and Omega fatty acids for your dog.
It has no corn, wheat, or soy. It contains no chicken by-products, too. This makes a good choice for sensitive dogs because it is mild for the stomach. But, be on the lookout for your dog’s reaction to this dog food. Some dogs aren’t fans of the fishy smell. It may also cause loose bowel movements for dogs who are not used to this formula.
Pros
- Grain-free
- No poultry allergens
- Power-packed nutrition
Cons
- Fishy smell/taste
- It may cause diarrhea in dogs
5. Purina Moist & Meaty Wet Dog Food
If you are looking for a versatile and handy kind, Purina Moist & Meaty Wet Dog Food, Steak Flavor may just be the choice for you. This soft-textured dog food comes in individual packs which are great for on-the-go or meal planning preps. It can be given as a meal for dogs who prefer soft food, especially older dogs. You can also offer it as a treat to your pooch.
Because of its soft consistency, it is also a great option to mix with kibble. A word of caution, soft dog food can cause dental problems to your dogs over time. So make sure to have their teeth brushed regularly. This dog food can also dry quite fast, so you’ll need to reseal the bag right away. Some dogs may not like the taste of this dog food. There also isn’t any guarantee that it’s free from allergens.
Pros
- Versatility
- Resealable bag for freshness
- Can double as a topping for kibbles
Cons
- Dries out fast
- May trigger food sensitivities
- Dogs may not like the taste
6. Purina Puppy Chow High Protein
The Purina Puppy Chow High Protein Dry Puppy Food, Complete with Real Chicken is your affordable choice for your growing pup. It contains nutrients for a well-balanced diet. Yet, it lacks in providing developmental benefits, unlike Purina Pro Plan High Protein Puppy Dry Food. It also contains proteins but is not comparable with the quality of the Purina Pro Plan variant. You can feed your dog with Purina Puppy Chow for up to two years of age.
Although formulated to be highly digestible, its low fiber content may still cause constipation. It is not grain-free and contains wheat and soy. So, check if your dog has no sensitivities. This formula is good for pet owners who are watching their budget.
Pros
- Affordable
- Good for puppies up to two years of age
Cons
- May cause constipation
- Contains grains and allergens
- Protein content may not be as high quality
7. Purina Dog Chow Complete Adult
Since we are on the topic of budget, here is the adult variant that gives value for your money. Purina Dog Chow Complete Adult with Real Beed Dry Dog Food offers affordability without compromising quality. Beef is its main source of protein. And it comes in big bags so you can order more saving your trips to the store.
This dog food is made up of dry kibbles which can also help clean your dog’s teeth. It is packed with the vitamins and minerals needed for keeping your dog’s immune system healthy. However, this formulation may contain triggers to your dog’s allergies so you’ll need to double-check the ingredients. It also contains grains.
Pros
- Affordable
- Helps clean teeth
- Contains beef protein
- Comes in large bags
Cons
- May contain allergens
8. Purina Pro Plan Adult Shredded Blend
Your dog will surely love this dual-texture Purina Pro Plan Adult Shredded Blend Lamb & Rice Formula Dry Dog Food offers! It contains both dry kibbles and tender shredded pieces your dog will enjoy. It boasts omega fatty acids for healthy skin and a shiny coat. Plus, it is rich in vitamins for your dog.
Its main source of protein is lamb rich in glucosamine. It is good for all dog breeds. Every serving is packed with live probiotics that help maintain your dog’s gut health. But this dog food contains wheat and soy which may trigger sensitivities.
Pros
- High-quality protein from lamb
- Contains glucosamine for joint health
- Omega fatty acids for a shiny coat
- Contains probiotics for digestive health
Cons
- May contain allergens
- Not grain-free
9. Purina ONE Natural High Protein True Instinct
On a quest for uniquely-flavored dog food? Well, check out Purina ONE Natural High Protein True Instinct with Real Beef & Salmon Dry Dog Food. This variant perfectly combines the goodness of beef and the tastiness of salmon. Plus, it contains no poultry byproducts so you won’t worry about your pooch’s chicken allergy. This dry kibble formula is good for active adult dogs. The high protein element of this dog food provides them the energy they need for their activities.
Aside from vitamins and minerals, it also contains glucosamine for joint health. And, it’s free of preservatives and artificial flavors. However, it contains wheat and soy, so if your dog is sensitive, check the ingredients list.
Pros
- A mix of beef and salmon flavor
- Contains glucosamine for joint health
- Contains a combination of meaty morsels and dry kibble
Cons
- Has wheat and soy
- Not grain-free
10. Purina Pro Plan Complete Essentials Adult Classic
Are you looking for a wet food variation for your dog’s usual dry food? Purina Pro Plan Complete Essentials Classic Chicken and Rice Entree Canned Dog Food is our pick. This wet food formula offers high-quality protein from real chicken. Plus, rice is blended in to produce quality and nutritious food for your dog.
This is suitable for all dog breeds in the adult life stage. It comes in a paté food texture dogs would love. It contains the essential nutrients for balanced nutrition for your pal. But, since it has chicken as the ingredient, make sure to test if your dog isn’t allergic. It also contains grains so it may not be suitable to use when managing your dog’s weight.
Pros
- High-quality protein in a paté consistency
- Suitable for all breeds
- Offers a balanced nutrition
Cons
- Chicken is the primary source of protein, which can be an allergen
- Not grain-free
11. Purina Pro Plan Adult Sensitive Skin & Stomach
Worry no more, here is the ideal dog food for your sensitive dog. Purina Pro Plan Adult Sensitive Skin & Stomach is specially formulated to tend to your pooch’s special needs. It is a high-protein adult dog food yet gentle to the stomach. This dog food is a highly-digestible formula with salmon as its primary ingredient. It has prebiotic fibers and probiotics to aid the digestion in your dog’s stomach. Plus, it has omega fatty acids for healthy skin and coat.
It is suitable for all dog breeds. Although it is fit for sensitive dogs, it is not grain-free. Picky dogs might not like the fishy taste.
Pros
- Prebiotic fiber and probiotics
- Suitable for all breeds
- Omega fatty acids
Cons
- Fishy taste
- Not grain-free
12. Purina Pro Plan 30/20
Fuel your active dog’s energy needs with Purina Pro Plan 30/20 Chicken & Rice Formula Dry Dog Food. It contains 30% protein and 20% fat for your dog’s metabolic needs. It also helps keep your dog in shape. This formula boasts DHA, EHA, B-vitamins, and antioxidants to boost your dog’s brain health. To top it all, it also contains omega fatty acids and vitamin A to keep your dog’s coat healthy and shiny.
Any dog breed can enjoy the benefits of this dog food. But, since the main ingredient is chicken, you’ll need to be extra careful with your dog’s food allergies. Although this dog food is high in protein, it also contains grains.
Pros
- Protein and fat combination
- DHA, EHA, and B-vitamins
- Omega fatty acids
Cons
- Has chicken, which can be an allergen
- Not grain-free
Why Choose Purina Dog Foods?
Purina continues to be in the top spot in the industry because they aim to provide the best to dogs. Dog owners opt for Purina products because of these three main reasons:
Premium Brand
Purina has delivered high-quality pet foods for over nine decades. They have maintained a good reputation in the industry for a long time. This is why many pet owners trust the brand. Each product they offer follows quality assurance standards. They make sure to target different health requirements of dogs.
They source premium ingredients to make sure every product they create is top-notch. Purina applies quality checks in the process of dog food production. 99% of their products are manufactured in the United States. They track each step from the ingredients to the finished product to ensure safety and quality.
Nutritional Content
Purina doesn’t just create any type of dog food, they make sure it is nutrition-packed. They don’t just focus on the ingredients, they start with nutrients. They aim to provide nutrient-dense pet food by measuring different formulations. After all, their goal is to make nutrition available to all dogs and cats.
They continue to innovate practices toward giving safe and nutritious food to dogs. They even have a Pet Care Center where they conduct feeding trials. Their products are approved by the FDA and abide by the Association of American Feed Control Officials guidelines.
Specialized Recipe
Purina believes that pets have unique traits and needs. So, they create specialized recipes to target specific needs. They offer both dry and wet food options, as well as soft dog food. They also have smart blends for different breeds from small to large. Purina caters to dogs of different ages having alternatives from puppies to senior dogs.
They also consider dogs with health conditions. They have products for dogs with sensitivities or allergies. Purina also offers dog food that targets skin and coat, weight management, heart health, and a lot more. When you browse through their website, you’ll find different categories. They are classified according to the product line, ingredients, breed size, preferences, and age.
Buying Guide to Choosing the Best Purina Dog Food
Now you’ve learned the advantages of choosing Purina as your dog food brand. But, what are the things you need to consider to choose the right food for your dog?
Age
Puppy and adult dog food variants are formulated differently. Puppy food contains high calories because it targets growth and reproduction in dogs. Adult dog food is designed for maintenance. So, if you have a puppy, make sure to choose puppy food so he’ll get all the nutrients needed.
As soon as he becomes a mature adult dog, you’ll need to switch to avoid extra weight gain from the high-calorie meal. Senior dogs would also need a different formulation depending on their health and activity level.
Breed Size
Dogs vary in size depending on their breed. Does size matter in choosing dog food? Yes! Smaller dogs need smaller kibbles. This will make chewing a lot easier. Not only that, small dogs have small stomachs, so they need nutrient-dense food. So, even with smaller meals, they still get the nutrition needed.
On the other hand, large dogs need dog food apt for their activity and caloric needs. It’s important to find the right food for medium to large dogs to avoid overfeeding. Some owners assume that large dogs should be fed more. This leads to weight gain and health problems. Some large dogs also need soft food.
Food Sensitivities
Just like humans, dogs can have food sensitivities too. Some dogs have sensitive stomachs. They easily get sick when fed with the wrong dog food. There are dogs with sensitive skin. So, it’s best to examine dog food ingredients to avoid any triggers.
Purina offers dog food options with Omega-3 fatty acids for a shiny coat. Their product for sensitive stomachs is easy to digest and has probiotics for gut health.
Health Issues
Dogs may suffer from health issues such as diabetes or kidney problems. Thus, they will need special dog food to cater to their health conditions. Diabetic dogs should be fed with low-carb dog food to help manage their sugar levels.
For dogs with kidney problems, you’ll need one with water content and low sodium. Dogs with other health conditions may need a dog food that will help immune support.
Nutritional Needs
Dogs need protein, carbohydrates, fats, minerals, vitamins, and water in their diet. However, they differ in the specific amount of these nutrients. Factors affecting their nutritional needs include life stages, activity level, and breed.
A highly active sporting dog may need a higher calorie food compared to the relaxed, home buddy toy dog. Life stages such as pregnancy will also affect the nutritional need of a dog. If you are unsure about the nutrients needed for your dog, discuss them with your veterinarian.
Weight Control
Overweight dogs are prone to health risks such as back problems, obesity, breathing issues, injury, and even a reduced lifespan. Not just that, according to a study, they are also prone to display bad behavior. So, when managing the weight of your dog, choose the correct dog food. Even if you control the amount of dog food, if it is high in calories, it may still result in extra weight on your dog.
An extra pound on a human may sound harmless. But, it may be harmful to a dog, especially for small breeds. So, if your dog is prone to gaining extra pounds, choose a dog food that is low in calories but still provides the nutrients he needs.
Best Purina Dog Foods: FAQs
Let us check out the answers to commonly asked questions about Purina dog foods.
Purina has several formulations with a good mixture of tender morsels and dry kibbles. Most dogs love the contrast in these dog food combinations. Flavors also vary from lamb to beef, chicken, and salmon.
Choosing the healthiest dog food depends on what your want to target for your dog. If your dog is a large to giant breed, you’ll need dog food with glucosamine for their joint health. Omega fatty acids also help improve bone health aside from maintaining the skin and coat. For sensitive dogs, check out grain-free and allergen-free options. Targetting the right nutrition for your dog helps you keep him in optimum health.
Purina is a global brand providing quality dog food for 90 years. They have over 80 plus dog food variants aimed to cater to dogs’ various needs. With this, Purina is known to be a good dog food offering formulations from high protein to natural, sensitive, low-cost, and premium-priced dog food.
Most veterinarians recommend the Purina Pro Plan product line. There’s no doubt this is the choice of most vets. It has a lot of options for specialized nutrition for active dogs, sensitive dogs, and even tailor-fit to different breeds.
Changing from puppy food to adult food can be tricky, especially for large breeds. As they grow fast and big, you’ll think they are already in the adult stage. The general rule of thumb is to wait until they are 18 months to 2 years old to switch to the adult formula.
Feeding is the number one responsibility of every dog owner. And it is not just about providing food, but also making sure your dog is getting the nutrition he needs. Before choosing your preferred Purina dog food, have a chat with your vet. Consider your dog’s daily activities, life stage, sensitivities, and other factors needed to choose the best for your pet.