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What’s the Best Affordable Dog Food?
Looking for the best cheap dog food?
Although the best budget-friendly brands are not always the cheapest…you can still find many 4 and 5-star dog foods selling for as much as 40% below the cost of premium recipes.
These are quality brands offering the best inexpensive dog foods designed to meet the needs of those who love their pets but who also want to avoid foods made with cheap fillers… and plant-based protein boosters.
Are Cheap Dog Foods Safe?
Sure. Lower priced dog foods CAN be safe.
As long as they are made by a company that performs regular safety testing… and then holds the finished food at its facility until test results are confirmed.
However, stay away from products rated 2 stars or lower by the Dog Food Advisor.
Many of these cheap, low-rated recipes contain BHA or other harmful chemical preservatives.
Instead favor brands rated 4 stars or higher… like the super-safe, budget-friendly dog foods listed below. These recipes have been screened by the Dog Food Advisor to be sure they don’t contain any risky additives… commonly found in so many cheap recipes.
Foods made with fillers and plant-based protein boosters are of little nutritional value to your dog. So, look for top-rated brands… selling at budget-friendly prices.
To help you find these money-saving gems… the Dog Food Advisor searched its vast database of more than 5,700 recipes and uncovered the following 4 and 5-star budget-friendly brands we recommend.
Each offers exceptional quality at an affordable price.
Since our research team is always discovering new inexpensive dog foods, be sure to bookmark this page so you can return to find more options for future savings.
Best Budget-Friendly Dog Foods December 2024
Here are The Dog Food Advisor's best budget-friendly dog food brands for December 2024
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Best Budget-Friendly Dog Food
Canidae All Life Stages Chicken Meal & Rice
Canidae All Life Stages Chicken Meal and Rice is, in our opinion, the best budget-friendly dog food, suitable for all dogs of all ages, breeds and size, including puppies.
Made with premium ingredients such as chicken, fruit and vegetables, this recipe is one of five vet-formulated foods in a range by Canidae, a brand founded in 1996 by Scott Whipple and John Gordon, who met while working at a local pet store.
It takes the bulk of its animal protein from chicken meal and our dry matter label report reveals it contains 29% protein, 15% fat and 48% estimated carbs… which produces a fat-to-protein ratio of about 52%.
A classic, budget-friendly option with no cheap fillers. Highly recommended.
Read our review of the full Canidae All Life Stages Dog Food (Dry) range here
Things we like
- More calories and protein per cup than other leading brands
- High quality, wholesome ingredients
- Premium proteins
Main Ingredients Chicken meal, brown rice, white rice, rice bran, cracked pearled barley Texture Dry Type Grain-inclusive Protein Percentage 29% Best For All adults and puppies Sample buyer review...
Read more buyer reviews at Chewy.com"I have tried dog food after dog food. I have a 30lb basset with a sensitive tummy, a 50lb pit with skin issues and allergies, and a 7lb chihuahua that eats everything and seems to always be under weight. This food works for the whole gang!"
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Best Affordable Wet Dog Food
American Journey Grain-Free Chicken & Turkey Recipe
American Journey Grain-Free Chicken and Turkey is one of 11 recipes included in our review of this wet product line exclusively created for and distributed by Chewy.
This formula derives most of its animal protein from chicken and turkey. Our dry matter label evaluation reveals the recipe contains 41% protein, 27% fat and 24% estimated carbs… which yields a fat-to-protein ratio of about 67%.
A great price for a solid wet option. Contains no cheap fillers. Also makes a nice “topper” to enhance the flavor of any kibble. Easy to recommend.
Read our review of the full American Journey Grain-Free Dog Food (Canned) range here
Things we like
- Highly palatable
- No fillers
- Balanced levels of omega-3 and 6 fatty acids
Main Ingredients Chicken, chicken broth, turkey, chicken liver, potatoes Texture Wet Type Grain-free Protein Percentage 41% Best For Adults and small/medium breed puppies Sample buyer review...
Read more buyer reviews at Chewy.com"I am a label reader and I found good, common ingredients in the food. I use the food as a topper for their dry kibble. My four rescues: 3 terrier mixes, and 1 Labrador Retriever, readily eat this food. Coats are shiny, no allergic reactions, no bloating or stomach upsets and they are thriving."
We also highly recommend
Merrick Cowboy Cookout
A 4.5-star rated grain-free recipe, in a 5-star range. Made from chicken, potatoes, carrots, apples and peas.
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Best Affordable Dry Dog Food
Dr. Tim's Pursuit Active Dog
Pursuit Active Dog is one of nine recipes included in our review of a dry product line from Dr. Tim’s.
This particular recipe gains the majority of its animal protein from chicken meal. Our dry matter label study reveals the recipe contains 33% protein, 22% fat and 36% estimated carbs… which results in a fat-to-protein ratio of about 67%.
A reasonably priced, quality dog food. Contains no wheat shorts or other cheap grain by-products. Enthusiastically recommended.
Read our review of the full Dr. Tim’s Dog Food (Dry) range here
Things we like
- Packed with animal protein
- Omega 3 fatty acids from fish oils
- Patented BC30 probiotic
Main Ingredients Chicken meal, brown rice, chicken fat, whole oat groats, dried beet pulp Texture Dry Type Grain-inclusive Protein Percentage 33% Best For Adults and small/medium breed puppies Sample buyer review...
Read more buyer reviews at Chewy.com"I poured some in her bowl and she ate it IMMEDIATELY! This is a dog that I believed just wasn't into food. I have given her raw foods, very expensive foods, bougie brand dry foods and she expressed little to no interest. Dr. Tim's food is quality at a fair price! Great, thoughtful ingredients that my dog can't get enough of!"
We also highly recommend
Blue Buffalo Life Protection Chicken & Brown Rice
A 4.5-star rated food in a grain-inclusive range with an overall rating of 4-stars.
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Best Affordable Dog Food for Large Breeds
Avoderm Large Breed Chicken Meal & Brown Rice
Avoderm Large Breed Chicken Meal & Brown Rice is one of nine recipes included in our review of the Avoderm dry product line.
This particular recipe includes natural sources of chondroitin sulfate and glucosamine to protect your large breed dog’s knees and joints. It obtains the majority of its meat protein from chicken meal and our dry matter label report reveals the recipe contains 29% protein, 11% fat and 52% estimated carbs… which creates a fat-to-protein ratio of about 38%.
A complete and balanced, all life stages formula at a budget-friendly price. Highly recommended.
Read our review of the full AvoDerm Grain-Inclusive Dog Food (Dry) range here
Things we like
- Contains chondroitin sulfate and glucosamine
- Omega-rich avocados
- Free from corn, wheat or soy by-product meals
Main Ingredients Chicken meal, ground brown rice, ground white rice, oatmeal, salmon meal Texture Dry Type Grain-inclusive Protein Percentage 29% Best For All adults and puppies Sample buyer review...
Read more buyer reviews at Chewy.com"My Pyrenees just loves the large breed AvoDerm dog food. She has had no problems at all with this food! This is her first bag. So, far so good!"
We also highly recommend
Wellness Core Large Breed Formula
Made with chicken and turkey, along with fruits and vegetables. Perfect for large active dogs.
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Best Affordable Dog Food for Small Breeds: Eagle Pack Original Chicken Meal & Pork Meal
Eagle Pack Original is one of four recipes included in our review of this dry dog food range.
This particular recipe gets most of its meat protein from chicken and pork meals. Our dry matter label report reveals the recipe contains 29% protein, 16% fat and 48% estimated carbs… producing a fat-to-protein ratio of about 54%.
It contains no controversial chemical preservatives or cheap plant-based fillers. Highly recommended.
Read our review of the full Eagle Pack Dog Food (Dry) range here
Things we like
- Glucosamine for joint health
- Omega fatty acids
- No corn, wheat or meal by-products
Main Ingredients Chicken meal, pork meal, ground brown rice, de-hulled barley, oatmeal Texture Dry Type Grain-inclusive Protein Percentage 29% Best For Adults and small/medium breed puppies Sample buyer review...
Read more buyer reviews at Chewy.com"My Golden Retriever is very sensitive. I’m so glad I found this one right away. It’s great food, made in the USA, has healthy grains, and a great price. I think this brand is underrated because people don’t know about it!"
We also highly recommend
Iams Small Breed Chicken & Whole Grain Rice
This 4-star food is one of 13 dry recipes. It contains seven essential nutrients to support heart health.
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Best Affordable Food for Puppies
Taste of the Wild Pacific Stream Puppy
Pacific Stream Puppy is one of nine recipes included in our review of the Taste of the Wild dry product line.
This smoke-flavored salmon puppy food is high in protein to help support bones, joints and muscle growth in puppies and nursing or pregnant dogs.
The bulk of its meat protein comes from salmon and ocean fish meal. Our dry matter label study reveals the recipe contains 30% protein, 17% fat and 45% estimated carbs… creating a fat-to-protein ratio of about 56%.
A quality, low-cost grain-free option, packed with antioxidants from fruits and vegetables to boost the immune system and overall health. Highly recommended.
Read our review of the full Taste of the Wild Dog Food range here
Things we like
- Crafted with vitamins and minerals from superfoods
- Pro-and pre-biotics
- Family-owned brand
Main Ingredients Salmon, ocean fish meal, sweet potatoes, peas, pea flour Texture Dry Type Grain-free Protein Percentage 30% Best For Puppies and lactating female dogs Sample buyer review...
Read more buyer reviews at Chewy.com"Our puppy loves this food. I love how soft her coat feels now. "
We also highly recommend
Country Vet Natural Growing Puppies
A high-protein recipe formulated with chicken meal as the first ingredient, made specifically for puppies — even those with sensitive digestive systems.
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Best Affordable Food for Senior Dogs
Nutro Ultra Senior
Nutro Ultra Senior is one of nine recipes included in our review of this dry dog food.
This specific formula gains most of its meat protein content from chicken and chicken meal. Our dry matter label study reveals the recipe contains 28% protein, 14% fat and 49% estimated carbs… resulting in a fat-to-protein ratio of about 50%.
A classic design at an affordable price. Contains no cheap agricultural by-products. Enthusiastically recommended.
Read our review of the full Nutro Ultra Dog Food (Dry) range here
Things we like
- Contains 14 superfoods
- Tailored protein and fat levels
- Omega 3 and 6 fatty acids
Main Ingredients Chicken, chicken meal, whole grain sorghum, whole grain barley, whole grain oats Texture Dry Type Grain-inclusive Protein Percentage 29% Best For Adult dogs Sample buyer review...
Read more buyer reviews at Chewy.com"I tried another brand before this and it made my dog sick. He refused to eat it. My vet recommended Nutro and in my research I came across Nutro Ultra. The ingredients are what sold me. We've been using this brand for over a year. Both dogs have the shiniest coats (people comment on their coats all the time), are in great shape, and are happy campers."
We also highly recommend
Orijen Dog Food Review (Dry)
This recipe is specially formulated to help maintain healthy weight and joint function in senior dogs.
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Best Affordable Grain-Inclusive Dog Food
Eukanuba Adult Small Bites
Eukanuba Adult Small Bites is one of 14 recipes included in our review of this dry, grain-inclusive product line.
This recipe takes the majority of its animal protein portion from chicken and our dry matter label analysis reveals it contains 28% protein, 18% fat and 46% estimated carbs… resulting in a fat-to-protein ratio of about 64%.
Formulated to meet the nutritional needs of adult dogs, it provides the right balance of proteins, fats, vitamins, and minerals and is enriched with antioxidants to strengthen the immune system and support long-term health.
Read our review of the full Eukanuba Dog Food (Dry) range here
Things we like
- High-quality animal protein
- Glucosamine and chondroitin to support lean muscles and agile joints
- Complete and balanced nutrition
Main Ingredients Chicken, chicken by-product meal, corn, wheat, chicken fat Texture Dry Type Grain-inclusive Protein Percentage 28% Best For Adult dogs Sample buyer review...
Read more buyer reviews at Chewy.com"My dogs are super picky, but love all the Eukanuba foods. It's cheaper than what we were purchasing before and the dogs don't mind at all"
We also highly recommend
Chicken Soup for the Soul Classic Adult Chicken, Turkey & Brown Rice
A 4.5-star rated food made from chicken and turkey blended with salmon and duck for high protein to support lean muscles.
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Best Affordable Grain-Free Dog Food
Nature's Recipe Chicken, Sweet Potato and Pumpkin Recipe
Nature’s Recipe Chicken, Sweet Potato, and Pumpkin Recipe is one of six grain-free dry recipes included in our review.
This particular recipe derives the bulk of its meat protein from fresh chicken and chicken meal. Our dry matter label analysis reveals the recipe contains 28% protein, 13% fat and 51% estimated carbs… resulting in a fat-to-protein ratio of about 48%.
A quality, inexpensive brand made by a trusted manufacturer. Highly recommended.
Read our review of the full Nature’s Recipe Grain-Free Dog Food (Dry) range here
Things we like
- Fiber-rich to support digestive and immune health
- Omega 3 and 6 fatty acids
- Antioxidants, zinc and vitamin E
Main Ingredients Chicken, chicken meal, sweet potatoes, tapioca starch, canola meal Texture Dry Type Grain-free Protein Percentage 28% Best For Adult dogs Sample buyer review...
Read more buyer reviews at Chewy.com"Our Golden, Faith, has been on Nature's Recipe for several years. She was 6 in December and has had zero issues or problems with the food."
We also highly recommend
Diamond Naturals Grain-Free Beef & Sweet Potato
A 4-star rated food made with beef as the first ingredient, also featuring lamb, sweet potatoes, kale, blueberries, and raspberries.
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Best Affordable Dog Food for Picky-Eaters
Whole Earth Farms Red Meat Recipe
Whole Earth Farms Red Meat Recipe is one of two recipes included in our review of this wet product line.
This formula is highly palatable and will tempt even the fussiest of eaters. It obtains most of its animal protein from beef. Our dry matter label report reveals the recipe contains 36% protein, 23% fat and 33% estimated carbs… which yields a fat-to-protein ratio of about 63%.
A budget-friendly, wet food option produced by Merrick, a company known for its high-quality recipes. Confidently recommended.
Read our review of the full Whole Earth Farms Dog Food (Canned) range here
Things we like
- USA-raised beef, pork and lamb
- Finely ground pate
- Free of animal byproduct meals
Main Ingredients Beef, beef broth, beef liver, lamb, pork liver Texture Wet Type Grain-free Protein Percentage 36% Best For All adults and puppies Sample buyer review...
Read more buyer reviews at Chewy.com"This food is less expensive than other brands with the same ingredients and nutrition. My dog seems to like it better, too."
We also highly recommend
Instinct Original with Real Beef
This recipe is made with 95% beef and beef liver. It also includes natural omega fatty acids to promote healthy skin and coat.
More Top Picks
To view more top dog foods by category… click the link below that best meets your personal feeding needs.
Final word
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However, we do receive a referral fee from online retailers (like Chewy or Amazon) and from sellers of perishable pet food when readers click over to their websites from ours. This helps cover the cost of operation of our free blog. Thanks for your support.
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