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On this page… the Dog Food Advisor takes an in-depth look at some of the best high protein dog foods on the market. And we’ll rate each of our top picks.
But first…
What Is High Protein Dog Food?
Most dry foods contain 23 to 27 percent protein. Wet food… a bit more.1
Since some recipes contain more moisture than others…
We used simple math to first remove all the water from each recipe. This makes it possible to accurately compare the protein content of ANY 2 recipes… wet or dry.
After rating more than 5750 recipes, we consider any food that contains over 28% protein… “high in protein”.
| Life Stage | AAFCO 2 | High Protein |
|---|---|---|
| Puppy | 22.5% | Over 28% |
| Adult | 18% | Over 28% |
Which Types of Dogs Benefit from a High Protein Diet?
Since dogs tend to lose muscle mass with heavy exercise and as they age, high protein recipes are ideal for active or athletic pets and seniors.
But keep in mind…
Older dogs who have been diagnosed with kidney disease or renal insufficiency should probably avoid these types of foods. Please consult with your veterinarian before moving your dog onto a high-protein diet.
Caution — Avoid Legume-Heavy Recipes
Due to their suspected link to a type of heart disease3 in dogs, high protein recipes that contain legumes (peas, lentils, etc.) within their first 5 ingredients have been excluded.
On the list below…
We’ll reveal the Advisor’s best high protein dog foods… and we’ll show you which ones are a good fit for the age and breed size of your particular dog.
We’ll also answer the most frequently asked questions we get about choosing and feeding high protein diets.
Best High Protein Dog Food December 2024
Here are The Dog Food Advisor's best high-protein dog food brands for December 2024
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Best High Protein Dog Food
Raised Right Beef Recipe
Adult Beef is one of 11 wet recipes covered in our review of the Raised Right Fresh product line.
This recipe gets most of its meat protein from fresh beef, which is naturally rich in all 10 essential amino acids required by a dog to sustain life. Dry matter label analysis shows the recipe contains 61% protein, 24% fat and 8% estimated carbs… yielding a fat-to-protein ratio of about 39%.
All recipes contain a single source of animal protein with no hidden fillers and are made from human-grade ingredients. One of the best high-protein fresh foods on the market. Easily recommended.
For More Choices: See our Best Fresh Food for Dogs page
Read our review of the full Raised Right Dog Food (Fresh) range here
Things we like
- Wide recipe selection
- No hidden fillers
- Human-grade ingredients
Main Ingredients Beef, beef heart, carrots, beef liver, cranberries Texture Wet Type Grain-free Protein Percentage 61% AAFCO Standards Maintenance Best For Adult dogs Sample buyer review...
Read more buyer reviews at raisedrightpets.com"Raised Right Beef is the perfect food for my dog. She loves the taste and I love there is finally something she can eat with all her food sensitivities."
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Best High Protein Dog Food For Large Breeds
Diamond Naturals Extreme Athlete Adult Dog Chicken & Rice Formula
If you’re seeking a grain-inclusive formula for large breeds, Diamond Naturals Extreme Athlete is an excellent high-protein option. Designed specifically for active dogs, this recipe is one of 13 dry formulas reviewed in the range.
The recipe derives much of its animal protein from chicken meal and fresh chicken, providing the high protein levels essential for supporting the larger muscles and overall growth of large breeds. While these dogs require more protein, they are also more prone to weight gain, making it important to balance fat and carbohydrate levels—a balance this recipe achieves effectively.
Our dry matter label analysis reveals the formula contains 36% protein, 28% fat, and 29% estimated carbohydrates, resulting in a fat-to-protein ratio of about 78%.
This exceptional grain-inclusive formula delivers the optimal nutrient levels large breeds need to thrive, making it a standout choice for their unique dietary needs.
Read our review of the full Diamond Naturals Dog Food (Dry) range here
Things we like
- Variety of recipes
- No-plant concentrates
- Nutrient dense
Main Ingredients Chicken meal, chicken, ground white rice, chicken fat, cracked pearled barley Texture Dry Type Grain-inclusive Protein Percentage 36% AAFCO Standards Maintenance Best For Adult dogs Sample buyer review...
Read more buyer reviews at Chewy.com"The Diamond dog food is a terrific food for my high energy German Shorthair. During the hunting season, she needs the higher protein and fat content this provides."
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Best High Protein Dog Food For Small Dogs
Halo Holistic Grain-Free Small Breed Wild-Caught Salmon & Whitefish Recipe Healthy Weight Support
Wild Caught Salmon is one of five dry recipes featured in our review of the Halo Holistic product line.
This recipe derives most of its meat protein from salmon, an excellent source of omega-3 fatty acids. These fatty acids support the immune system, reduce inflammation, and promote a shiny, healthy coat. Additionally, the formula includes prebiotics, probiotics, and postbiotics to aid digestion, addressing a common concern for smaller dogs.
Free from meat meals, antibiotics, GMO ingredients, corn, wheat, soy, and artificial additives, this recipe provides a clean and wholesome option. The small kibble size is perfectly suited for smaller mouths, ensuring easier eating.
Our dry matter label analysis shows the formula contains 31% protein, 15% fat, and 46% estimated carbohydrates, resulting in a fat-to-protein ratio of about 50%.
Read our review of the full Halo Grain Free Dog Food (Dry) range here
Things we like
- Features prebiotics, probiotics, and postbiotics
- Contains omega fatty acids
- Small kibble size
Main Ingredients Salmon, whitefish, sweet potatoes, chickpeas, brewers dried yeast Texture Dry Type Grain-free Protein Percentage 28% AAFCO Standards Maintenance Best For Adult dogs Sample buyer review...
Read more buyer reviews at Chewy.com"My 5 lb poodle LOVES Halo dry, It is the perfect size for her little mouth. I buy different flavors each time I order from Chewey. Great nutrition and great taste."
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Best High Protein Dog Food For Senior Dogs
American Journey Protein & Grains Senior Salmon, Brown Rice and Vegetables
We highly recommend this salmon-based recipe for senior dogs, as it contains a high level of omega and omega-6 fatty acids that help support healthy skin and a glossy coat as well as general health. This recipe is one of 16 dry formulas featured in our review of the American Journey product line.
Our dry matter label analysis reveals the recipe contains 28% protein, 17% fat, and 48% estimated carbohydrates, resulting in a fat-to-protein ratio of about 60%.
With its lower fat content and the addition of brown rice for digestive support, this formula provides a wholesome and affordable option for senior dogs. A high-quality choice, highly recommended.
Read our review of the full American Journey Protein & Grains Dry Dog Food range here
Things we like
- Low fat
- High in omega fatty acids
- Easily digestible
Main Ingredients Deboned Salmon, Whitefish Meal, Brown Rice, Peas, Rice Bran Texture Dry Type Grain-inclusive Protein Percentage 60% AAFCO Standards All Life Stages Best For All dogs and puppies Sample buyer review...
Read more buyer reviews at Chewy.com"Healthy REAL ingredients that are easily digestible. My senior dog loves this food! She can easily chew it with her old sore teeth. She's be so much happy and energetic since switching over to American Journey."
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Best High Protein Dog Food for Puppies
Wellness Complete Health Grain Free Puppy Chicken, Chicken Meal and Salmon Meal
This grain-free formula is crafted for complete and balanced nutrition, promoting overall health and development, and is one of six dry recipes reviewed in the Wellness Complete Health Grain-Free product line. We highly recommend it for puppies.
The recipe derives most of its meat content from chicken, a lean and high-quality protein essential for building and repairing tissues, maintaining a strong immune system, and supporting healthy growth in puppies. Our dry matter label analysis shows the formula contains 36% protein, 20% fat, and 36% estimated carbohydrates, resulting in a fat-to-protein ratio of about 56%.
Packed with high-quality protein, healthy fats, and fiber, this recipe supports immunity, energy, and a shiny coat. Enriched with omega fatty acids (including DHA), antioxidants, glucosamine, probiotics, and taurine, it excludes GMOs, meat by-products, fillers, and artificial preservatives. A perfect choice for growing pups.
Read our review of the full Wellness Complete Health Grain Free Dog Food (Dry) range here
Things we like
- Contains omega fatty acids
- No GMOs, meat-by-products, fillers, or artificial preservatives
- Balanced nutrition for growing puppies
Main Ingredients Deboned chicken, chicken meal, peas, chickpeas, lentils Texture Dry Type Grain-free Protein Percentage 36% AAFCO Standards Growth Best For Puppies Sample buyer review...
Read more buyer reviews at Chewy.com"This has been an outstanding puppy food, never any issues. We have been feeding Wellness to our extremely active, working Australian Shepherd since she was 8 weeks old. I will definitely continue with the adult Wellness food for her"
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Best High Protein Dog Food For Sensitive Stomachs
Jinx Atlantic Salmon, Brown Rice and Sweet Potato Recipe
For dogs with sensitive stomachs, high-protein recipes can be a great option, and we recommend the Jinx Dog Food Atlantic Salmon recipe. It’s one of six dry formulas reviewed in our assessment of this product line.
This salmon-based food is a great choice for dogs with sensitive stomachs, with real salmon as the main ingredient for high-quality protein that’s easy to digest. It also includes sweet potatoes to support gut health and digestion, while brown rice provides a steady source of energy and fiber.
Packed with 20 superfoods and 20 million probiotics, this recipe promotes gut and overall wellness. Added taurine boosts heart health, and the formula is free from common allergens like corn, wheat, soy, fillers, and artificial preservatives, offering a clean and gentle option for dogs with delicate digestive systems.
Our dry matter label analysis shows the recipe contains 30% protein, 16% fat, and 46% estimated carbohydrates, resulting in a fat-to-protein ratio of about 52%.
Read our review of the full Jinx Dog Food (Dry) range here
Things we like
- Packed with probiotics
- Free from fillers and artificial preservatives
- Contains superfoods
Main Ingredients Salmon, Pearled Barley, Ground Peas, Turkey Meal, Brown Rice Texture Dry Type Grain-inclusive Protein Percentage 27% AAFCO Standards All Life Stages Best For All dogs and puppies Sample buyer review...
Read more buyer reviews at Chewy.com"Fantastic ingredients. Salmon, sweet potato and rice. My puppy and 2 yr old and 3 yr old love it. I don't have to buy puppy food too anymore. No tummy problems or skin issues."
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Best Affordable High Protein Dog Food
I and Love and You Naked Essentials Grain Free with Chicken and Duck
If you’re searching for an affordable, high-protein option, we recommend this grain-free chicken and duck recipe. It’s one of three dry dog foods reviewed by us, earning an impressive 4.5-star rating.
This formula features chicken as the first ingredient, providing high-quality protein to support muscle development and overall health. Our dry matter label analysis shows it contains 33% protein, 16% fat, and 43% estimated carbohydrates, resulting in a fat-to-protein ratio of about 47%.
To further enhance its benefits, the recipe includes prebiotics and probiotics for easy digestion and improved gut health. Made with non-GMO protein and produce, it offers a clean and nutritious meal for your pet.
Free from corn, wheat, rice, soy, oats, grains, or fillers, this formula is an excellent choice for dogs with dietary sensitivities.
Read our review of the full I and Love and You Naked Essentials Dog Food (Dry) range here
Things we like
- Affordable
- Free from fillers
- Includes prebiotics and probiotics
Main Ingredients Chicken, chicken meal, turkey meal, dried chickpeas, dried lentils Texture Dry Type Grain-free Protein Percentage 33% AAFCO Standards All Life Stages Best For All adult dogs and puppies Sample buyer review...
Read more buyer reviews at Chewy.com"I bought this because it was grain free and a good price. My dogs ate it right up even my fussy one! So, I reordered it and another flavor as well. The pieces are small enough for my little dogs and easy enough to chew for my poor girl with a few missing teeth!"
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Best High Protein Dog Food For Allergies
ACANA Limited Ingredient Singles Duck & Pear Grain-Free Dry Dog Food
With duck as the main and only meat ingredient, this recipe is an excellent choice for dogs with allergies to common meats like chicken or beef. Despite the limited ingredients, this recipe still contains high levels of protein due to the inclusion of duck meal and liver.
Acana Limited Ingredient is one of four dry recipes contained in our review of the Acana product line. We recommend it for dogs with food sensitivities due to its novel protein source, and it contains no artificial flavors, colors, or preservatives. Additionally, it’s rich in superfoods that promote healthy digestion.
Our dry matter label analysis shows the recipe contains 35% protein, 19% fat, and 38% estimated carbohydrates, resulting in a fat-to-protein ratio of about 55%.
Read our review of the full Acana Limited Ingredient Singles Dog Food (Dry) range here
Things we like
- Contains novel meat
- Limited ingredient
- No artificial flavors, colors, or preservatives
Main Ingredients Deboned duck, duck meal, duck liver, sweet potato, whole chickpeas Texture Dry Type Grain-free Protein Percentage 35% AAFCO Standards All Life Stages Best For Adults and puppies Sample buyer review...
Read more buyer reviews at Chewy.com"I have a beagle with some pretty crazy food allergies, he can’t have peas or rice. This is one of the few foods on the market that doesn’t have peas in it! I feed it to my other three too and they all love it! "
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Best High Protein Dog Food For Active Dogs
Dr. Tim’s Pursuit Active Dog High Protein Recipe
Active Dog is one of eight dry recipes reviewed in our assessment of the Dr. Tim’s product line. Known for its popularity among the large breed athletic and sporting dog community, it’s no surprise that this high-protein formula is a top choice for active dogs.
The primary protein source in this recipe is chicken meal, which may surprise some customers by offering more protein than fresh chicken. Active dogs require high levels of energy, which they get from a balanced mix of protein, carbohydrates, and fat. This formula provides the necessary energy to support the demands of intense exercise.
Our dry matter label analysis reveals the recipe contains 33% protein, 22% fat, and 36% estimated carbohydrates, resulting in a fat-to-protein ratio of about 67%.
Additionally, beet pulp is included as a valuable fiber source, supporting intestinal health and improving the absorption of essential nutrients.
Read our review of the full Dr. Tim’s Dog Food (Dry) range here
Things we like
- Low fat
- Specifically made for athletic breeds
- Delivers efficient sources of energy for active dogs
Main Ingredients Chicken meal, brown rice, chicken fat, whole oat groats, dried beet pulp Texture Dry Type Grain-inclusive Protein Percentage 33% AAFCO Standards All Life Stages Best For Adult and small or medium breed puppies Sample buyer review...
Read more buyer reviews at Chewy.com"My English setter, a Llewelyn has been on Dr. Tim’s Pursuit dog food since she was a puppy, over ten years ago. She is a very active dog and thrives on this food. She has been very healthy. Her white and spotted fur coat is shiny!! I highly recommend this product."
More Top Picks
To view more top dog foods by category… click the link below that best meets your personal feeding needs.
Here are the most frequently asked questions we get about choosing and feeding high protein dog food:
Frequently Asked Questions
How can I transition to a high protein diet without making my dog sick?
In the following video…
Holistic vet, Dr. Gary Richter, shares an important feeding tip that can help reduce your dog’s risk of becoming sick when you start a high protein diet.
It’s best to introduce your dog to a protein-rich diet gradually.
Start by mixing 20% of the “new” high protein recipe with your pet’s “old” food. Then, slowly raise that amount to a full 100% over the following 8 days.
| Schedule | Old Food | New Food |
|---|---|---|
| Days 1 and 2 | 80% | 20% |
| Days 3 and 4 | 60% | 40% |
| Days 5 and 6 | 40% | 60% |
| Days 7 and 8 | 20% | 80% |
| Day 9 | 0% | 100% |
Do high protein diets cause kidney disease in dogs?
According to most experts, a high protein diet does not cause kidney disease in healthy dogs.
In an important article, Dr. Kenneth Bovée, the renown and now deceased professor of Clinical Studies at the University of Pennsylvania, concluded:
“The continued use of protein restriction in the absence of scientific evidence deserves thoughtful consideration. I would suggest that the dogma and mythology of a possible benefit are so embedded in the thought process of veterinarians and owners that these cannot be easily dislodged despite the scientific evidence. I would refer to this as the myth of dietary protein and characterize it as a negative myth.”
However, if your dog has been previously diagnosed with kidney disease, you should consult your veterinarian before feeding this type of food.
Do high protein diets cause hip disease in dogs?
The rapid growth which causes hip disease in larger breeds has now been linked to genetics4, excessive dietary calcium5 or overfeeding during the puppy phase of life6.
View The Dog Food Advisor’s Best Large Breed Puppy Foods here.
Are high protein diets good for overweight dogs?
If your dog is overweight, a reduced-calorie, high-protein dog food can be a good option. That’s because, based on recent research7, feeding an overweight dog a diet with higher amounts of protein can help burn fat and calories and help with weight loss.
You may also notice that feeding your dog a food that’s high in protein may help your dog feel satisfied longer.
Be sure to visit The Advisor’s Best Dog Foods for Weight Loss here.
Final word
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