Best Dog Food Brands In India
While I might not give a second thought to what goes into my own meal but when it comes to my dog? That’s a whole different story!
From browsing the web and watching YouTube videos to reading countless Amazon reviews and meticulously examining food labels, you’ll see me do everything.
After all, he’s not just a pet; he’s my baby. And you can bet I want to give him the very best! This includes choosing the right dog food for my little one. With so many brands available, it can feel overwhelming.
But don’t worry—I’ve done the research for you! This blog will help you find the best options for your dog. My furry companion and I have explored the top dog food brands in India to make your choice easier.
Let’s dive into the best dog food brands in India!
Factors to Consider When Choosing Dog Food
Before we get started, here are some important considerations to help you choose the best food for your furry friend:
- Nutritional Value: Dogs need balanced nutrients just like humans. Look for dog food with proteins, fats, and carbohydrates. Protein builds muscles, healthy fats provide energy and support skin health, and carbohydrates aid digestion.
- Ingredient Quality: Read the food label carefully. Choose natural ingredients over artificial additives. Avoid vague terms like "meat by-products."
- Specific Dietary Needs: Consider your dog’s breed, age, and weight. Puppies need nutrients for growth, while senior dogs may require special diets for joint health. Always consult your vet for health-related dietary concerns.
- Cost-Effectiveness and Availability: Find dog food that fits your budget and is easy to find in local stores or is easily available online . Buying larger packs can save money for bigger dogs.
Now that you know what to consider when choosing dog food, let’s look at the top brands in India.
Top 10 Dog Food Brands in India
1. Royal Canin - Best Overall
Royal Canin Maxi Dog Food is a popular choice among dog parents in India. It’s helps improve coat condition, boost energy levels, and enhance overall vitality in dogs.
It offers a good mix of nutrients for muscle health, skin care, and digestion. The kibble size is just right for easy chewing, which makes it a favorite for larger dogs.
Price Range:
Approximately ₹4,000 to ₹5,500 for a 20 kg bag.
Pros:
- High-quality protein sources for muscle maintenance.
- Formulated with glucosamine and chondroitin- the goodies that support joint health.
- Contains essential vitamins and minerals for overall well-being.
Cons:
- Higher price point compared to some other brands.
- Contains some maize and fillers that may concern certain pet owners.
Best For:
Best suited for large dogs.
2. Drools Focus - Best for Puppies
Drools Focus Dog Food is becoming popular with pet owners in India. They want good nutrition at a fair price.
This food has real chicken protein to help keep muscles strong. It also has vitamins, minerals, and omega fatty acids for a healthy coat.
Price Range:
Approximately ₹2,200 to ₹3,500 for a 12 kg bag.
Pros:
- High-quality chicken protein to support muscle strength.
- Omega fatty acids to help keep that coat glossy and healthy.
- Balanced nutrients that keep your pup energetic and feeling their best.
- Dog-approved taste—many owners report their dogs love it.
Cons:
- Includes some fillers like corn, which may not suit all dogs.
- A bit more expensive than standard Drools options.
Best For:
Adults and puppies
3. Acana
Acana Dog Food is considered the gold standard among pet parents who want top-notch, natural ingredients. It is known for its “biologically appropriate” approach. This means it uses whole-prey ingredients. These ingredients mimic what dogs would eat in the wild.
Price Range:
Around ₹5,000 to ₹6,500 for an 11.4 kg bag.
Pros:
- High-quality protein like free-run chicken, wild-caught fish, and cage-free eggs.
- Grain-free and free from fillers.
- Balanced with vegetables, fruits, and botanicals.
- Free from artificial preservatives.
Cons:
- Premium price point.
- Availability can sometimes be an issue in local stores, though it's widely available online.
Best For:
Active dogs
4. Canine Creek Dog Food
Canine Creek has high-protein and grain-free recipes. It included real meat as the main ingredient. It uses natural ingredients that support overall health and avoids common fillers.
The brand offers options tailored for both puppies and adult dogs. This is my dog’s current favorite—there’s never anything left in the bowl!
Price Range:
A 12 kg bag usually costs between ₹4,000 and ₹5,000.
Pros:
- High protein content from sources like chicken and fish.
- Enriched with Omega-3 and Omega-6 fatty acids.
- Contains fruits and vegetables like blueberries, cranberries, and carrots.
- Grain-free (except for rice).
Cons:
- Pricier than some other locally available brands.
Best For:
Active dogs, large breeds, dogs that need special diet
5. Chappi - Budget Friendly
Chappi is a budget-friendly dog food brand in India that many pet owners trust for their furry friends. Chappi is very affordable dog food option. It offers a good mix of whole grains and important nutrients.
It may not offer the same protein levels as some premium options. But its still a solid choice for dogs with moderate activity needs .
Price Range:
20 kg bag usually costs between ₹1,500 and ₹2,000.
Pros:
- Very affordable and widely available in stores across India.
- Whole grains provide sustained energy for everyday activities.
- Enriched with vitamins and minerals that support overall health.
- Generally well-received for its taste, with many dogs enjoying the flavor.
Cons:
- Lower protein content compared to premium brands.
- Contains fillers such as corn and wheat.
- Limited variety in flavors and formulations.
Best For:
Dogs with moderate activity levels
6. Orjien
Orijen is widely regarded as one of the top premium dog food brands in the world. Orijen focuses on high-quality ingredients, with real meat as the first component in all its recipes.
Price Range:
A 11.4 kg bag typically priced between ₹6,000 to ₹7,500.
Pros:
- High protein content from fresh, whole meats like chicken, turkey, and fish.
- Grain-free formula.
- Includes nutrient-rich fruits and vegetables, providing vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants.
Cons:
- Higher price point compared to most other dog food brands.
- High protein levels can cause digestive issues in dogs with sensitive stomachs.
- Harder to find in some areas, but it’s becoming more common in specialty pet stores.
Best For:
Active dogs, large breeds, and those with higher protein needs.
7. Pedigree
If you’re a dog parent and haven’t heard about pedigree, you’re probably living under a rock. It’s affordable and easily available.
Within the Pedigree brand, Pedigree Pro stands out as a premium option designed for active dogs and those requiring specific dietary needs.
Price Range:
A 20 kg bag typically priced between ₹1,200 to ₹2,000.
Pedigree Pro, being a higher-tier product, can range from ₹2,500 to ₹3,500 for similar sizes.
Pros:
- Offers a balanced blend of protein, fats, and carbohydrates.
- The inclusion of essential vitamins and minerals.
- Generally well-liked by dogs for its taste.
- Pedigree Pro meets the nutritional needs of active dog.
Cons:
- Some pet owners have concerns about fillers like corn and wheat.
- Lower protein content might not meet the needs of highly active or large breed dogs.
Best For:
Pedigree is suitable for dogs of all sizes and ages with average activity levels.
Pedigree Pro is a great choice for active dogs.
8. Purepet
Purepet is a growing Indian dog food brand known for offering balanced nutrition at an affordable price.
With a focus on quality and taste, it aims to meet dogs' dietary needs without compromising on ingredients.
Price Range:
A 20 kg bag typically priced around ₹1,500 to ₹2,000.
Pros:
- Offers a balanced diet with essential nutrients.
- Generally well-liked by dogs.
- Contains a good mix of proteins, fats, and carbohydrates.
- Available in various formulations for different life stages and sizes of dogs.
Cons:
- Ingredient quality may not be as high, with certain fillers present.
- Few owners have noticed digestive issues in dogs with sensitive stomachs.
- Available in many pet stores and online.
Best For:
Adults and puppies
9. Meat Up
Meat Up has quickly made a name for itself among dog owners in India, thanks to its focus on meat-first nutrition.
This brand positions itself as a provider of high-quality, protein-rich food, appealing to those who want to give their pets the best.
Price Range:
A 15 kg bag costs between ₹2,200 and ₹2,800.
Pros:
- Rich in high-quality meat.
- Grain-free options are available.
- Owners frequently report that their dogs find the food palatable.
- Fortified with essential vitamins and minerals.
Cons:
- Some dogs might need time to adjust to the higher protein levels.
- Limited availability in some areas but online options are available.
- Price is higher than other popular brands.
Best For:
Active dogs or those needing a protein-rich diet.
10. Purina - Vet Recommended
Purina is trusted by dog owners across India and beyond. Purina offers a range of formulas designed for different needs.
It aims to provide balanced nutrition that supports the health and well-being of dogs at all sizes and life stages.
Price Range:
A 20 kg bag ranging from ₹1,500 to ₹2,500.
Pros:
- It offers a variety of products tailored to different life stages and dietary needs.
- It also includes formulas for puppies and options for senior dogs.
- Made with real meat as a primary ingredient.
- Fulfils nutritional requirements like vitamins and minerals.
Cons:
- sence of fillers, such as corn and soy.
- The quality of ingredients may not match that of premium brands.
Best For:
Suitable for various dogs, from active puppies to senior pets needing special care.
Key Ingredients to Look For in Dog Food
Choosing the right dog food involves recognizing beneficial ingredients while avoiding harmful additives.
Here’s a quick guide to help you make informed choices:
Beneficial Ingredients
- High-Quality Protein Sources
- Omega-3 Fatty Acids
- Whole Grains
- Fruits and Vegetables
- Probiotics
Harmful Additives to Avoid
- Artificial Preservatives
- Fillers
- By-Products
- Excessive Grains
- Artificial Colors and Flavors
How to Transition Your Dog to a New Food Brand
Transitioning your dog to a new food should be gradual. This helps prevent digestive issues like upset stomach, diarrhea, or vomiting.
Here’s a simplified guide:
Start Slowly: Mix a small amount of the new food with the old food (25% new, 75% old).
Monitor Your Dog: Watch for any signs of discomfort, such as gas or stool changes.
Increase New Food: Over 10 days, gradually change the ratio:
- Days 1-3: 25% new, 75% old
- Days 4-6: 50% new, 50% old
- Days 7-9: 75% new, 25% old
- Day 10: 100% new
Adjust as Needed: Slow down if your dog shows distress.
Consult Your Vet: Always check with your vet if your dog has special dietary needs.
Special Considerations for Puppies and Senior Dogs
Puppies and senior dogs have different nutritional needs that should be met with appropriate dog food.
Puppies:
- Growth: They need a diet high in proteins and fats for rapid growth, with extra calories and nutrients like calcium for strong bones.
- Energy: Puppy food should provide sustained energy for their active play.
- Recommended Foods: Choose puppy-specific formulas like Royal Canin Puppy or Acana Puppy Recipe.
Senior Dogs:
- Metabolism: Older dogs have slower metabolisms and require fewer calories to avoid obesity.
- Joint Health: Foods with glucosamine and chondroitin support joint health.
- Digestive Health: Easily digestible ingredients and probiotics help with gut health.
- Recommended Foods: Look for senior-specific formulas like Purina Pro Plan Senior.
Conclusion
As a proud dog parent, I understand the struggles of selecting the perfect food. In my experience, it's not just about filling the bowl; it's about providing the best ingredients for their health.
I hope this guide takes some of the weight off your shoulders and makes the food selection process less overwhelming.
So let's make sure that our dogs get the best nutrition possible so they can thrive and bring us joy for years to come. After all, nothing beats those happy, tail-wagging moments when we know we’re doing right by them!