best limited ingredient chicken dog food
The Best Chicken Dog Food: 11 Poultry Picks For Your Pooch!
If youve had your doggo for more than 15 minutes, youve probably already discovered that chicken is a popular protein in dog foods. In fact, there are likely more chicken-flavored dog foods on the market than options made with any other protein source.
There are several reasons this is the case, ranging from the affordable nature of the protein to the simple fact that puppers often love the taste of chicken. For that matter, chicken is a healthy lean protein thatll keep your canine running, jumping, and playing like you want her to.
However, some chicken dog foods are better than others. Some are nutritious and full of flavor, while others, eh, not so much. Its also important to note that different chicken dog foods are better suited for some floofs than others.
But dont worry whether you have a big ol bulldog, a tiny terrier, a senior shih tzu, or a picky pug, well help you find the perfect chicken dog food for your furry friend below!
Best Overall Chicken Dog Food
Best Kibble-Style Chicken Dog Food
Best Canned Chicken Dog Food
Most Affordable Chicken Dog Food
The Benefits of Chicken-Flavored Dog Foods: Why Are Chicken Dog Foods so Popular?
Chicken is certainly one of the most common proteins used in dog foods, and there are a variety of reasons why, including:
- Most dogs love the taste of chicken. What furry friend doesnt go nuts for a clucker? Dogs love the taste of chicken, and it also serves as a lean source of protein, making it an excellent choice for many dogs.
- Chicken is a pretty affordable protein. Compared to some of the other best protein meats for dogs, chicken is pretty cheap especially when compared to other lean meats like pheasant and turkey. Its also readily available to manufacturers, which can make it easier to find.
- Chicken beats beef (likely the second most common protein) nutritionally. Beef is another popular protein choice for dog food, but chicken wins on the nutritional front. Chicken provides more protein than beef, all while providing less fat and fewer calories.
- Chicken is a more environmentally friendly protein than some others. Chicken may not be the most eco-friendly protein around, but chicken farming is gentler on the planet than the production of some other proteins, such as beef.
11 of the Best Chicken Dog Food Options: Poultry-Flavored Foods FTW!
Ready to pick out the perfect chicken dog food for your pooch? Thats what we thought! Lets jump right into the best chicken dog food finds.
1. Ollie Chicken & Carrot
Best Overall Chicken Dog Food
About: Ollie is a super-premium, fresh food option that your dog is sure to clucking love! Made with human-grade ingredients, this chicken dog food recipe is minimally processed to help preserve nutrients and deliver a taste thatll keep Fido coming back for more.
Best of all? Its shipped directly to your doorstep in a fresh-frozen state for maximum pup parent convenience. Simply thaw it and serve up supper!
Features:
- Made with human-grade dog food ingredients
- Formulated with superfoods like spinachand blueberries
- Cod liver oil provides a great source of omega 3s
- Gently cooked to provide a taste dogs love
- Custom-crafted recipes to satisfy your dogs specific nutritional needs
- Special deal for K9 of Mine readers get 50% off your first order when you use code K9OFMINE at checkout!
Ingredients List
Chicken, carrots, peas, rice, chicken liver...,
potatoes, spinach, dicalcium phosphate, whole dried eggs, fish oil, blueberries, chia seeds, calcium carbonate, iodized salt, cod liver oil, zinc gluconate, rosemary, copper gluconate, choline bitartrate, vitamin E supplement, manganese gluconate, potassium iodide, pyridoxine hydrochloride (vitamin B6), riboflavin
Pros
- Dogs simply love the taste of Ollie
- Most dogs digest it very well
- Owners love the use of human-grade ingredients
- Delivered in pre-portioned packages
Cons
- Fresh foods are expensive
- Requires refrigeration for storage
2. Wellness Complete Chicken & Oatmeal
Best Kibble-Style Chicken Dog Food
About: Wellness Complete is a premium dry chicken dog food thatll let you give your pooch the nutrition she needs without having to pay the premiums associated with fresh foods.
Packed with great proteins, nutritious antioxidants, and omega 3s, this chicken-based kibble checks off just about every box owners want. This dog food also contains oatmeal and ground barley two great, hearty grains that are healthy for canines.
As a bonus, Wellness Complete is a dog food thats fortified with probiotics to keep your furry friends digestive tract operating like it should.
Features:
- Deboned chicken is the first listed ingredient
- Recipe include probiotics to support proper digestion
- Protein-rich recipe is perfect for supporting active pups
- Contains great sources of antioxidants and vitamins
- Full of omega 3s to promote healthy skin and fur
Ingredients List
Deboned Chicken, Chicken Meal, Oatmeal, Ground Barley, Peas...,
Ground Brown Rice, Chicken Fat, Tomato Pomace, Ground Flaxseed, Tomatoes, Carrots, Natural Chicken Flavor, Potassium Chloride, Choline Chloride, Spinach, Vitamin E Supplement, Taurine, Zinc Proteinate, Mixed Tocopherols added to preserve freshness, Sweet Potatoes, Apples, Blueberries, Zinc Sulfate, Calcium Carbonate, Niacin, Ferrous Sulfate, Iron Proteinate, Vitamin A Supplement, Glucosamine Hydrochloride, Chondroitin Sulfate, Ascorbic Acid (Vitamin C), Copper Sulfate, Thiamine Mononitrate, Copper Proteinate, Chicory Root Extract, Manganese Proteinate, Manganese Sulfate, d-Calcium Pantothenate, Sodium Selenite, Pyridoxine Hydrochloride, Riboflavin, Yucca Schidigera Extract, Garlic Powder, Vitamin D3 Supplement, Biotin, Calcium Iodate, Vitamin B12 Supplement, Folic Acid, Dried Lactobacillus plantarum Fermentation Product, Dried Enterococcus faecium Fermentation Product, Dried Lactobacillus casei Fermentation Product, Dried Lactobacillus acidophilus Fermentation Product, Rosemary Extract, Green Tea Extract, Spearmint Extract.
Pros
- Some owners noticed improved energy levels
- Impressive ingredient list that includes tons of superfoods
- Full of probiotics and fiber to support proper digestion
- Dogs appear to love the taste
Cons
- One of the more expensive kibbles around
- Some owners complained of increased doggo gas
3. CANIDAE Wet Food Chicken & Rice
Best Canned Chicken Dog Food
About: If your four-footer prefers wet chicken dog food, this canned chicken food option from CANIDAE should be the first option you consider. Aside from being one of the tastiest options around, this nutritious wet food is full of omega-3s and antioxidants to support your furry family member.
And it is also important to point out that this CANIDAE canned option is a grain-inclusive dog food, which may help your pup avoid heart problems such as DCM.
Features:
- Easy for seniors and dogs with dental issues to eat
- Omega-3-rich ingredients promote a healthy coat
- The recipe is formulated by veterinarians
- Its made without corn, wheat, or soy
- Appropriate for all life stages.
Ingredients List
Chicken, Chicken Broth, Chicken Liver, Dried Egg Product, Brown Rice...,
Pearled Barley, Potassium Chloride, Salt, Salmon Oil (Preserved with Mixed Tocopherols), Sunflower Oil, Sodium Tripolyphosphate, Agar-agar, Choline Chloride, Canola Oil, Dried Kelp, Dried Cranberries, Yucca Schidigera Extract, Vitamin E Supplement, Zinc Sulfate, Niacin Supplement, Ferrous Sulfate, Thiamine Mononitrate, Zinc Proteinate, Manganese Sulfate, Vitamin A Supplement, L-Ascorbyl-2-Polyphosphate, Iron Proteinate, d-Calcium Pantothenate, Copper Sulfate, Pyridoxine Hydrochloride, Manganese Proteinate, Potassium Iodide, Riboflavin Supplement, Copper Proteinate, Folic Acid, Vitamin D3 Supplement, Cobalt Proteinate, Sodium Selenite, Biotin, Vitamin B12 Supplement, Rosemary Extract.
Pros
- Most dogs go ga-ga over the taste
- Wet foods provide extra hydration
- You can feed it on its own or as a kibble topper
- Most dogs digested this food well
Cons
- This canned food has a thicker consistency than some pups like
- Canned foods are generally less convenient to feed than kibbles
4. Diamond Naturals Chicken & Rice
Best Budget-Friendly Chicken Dog Food
About: Need high-quality chicken dog food that wont break the bank? Its hard to find a better option than Diamond Naturals Chicken & Rice.
Made with cage-free chicken, whole grains, and nutritious produce, this affordable chicken-centered kibble packs a nutritious punch without a problematic price tag.
And one more thing: Diamond Naturals Chicken & Rice is formulated for all life stages, so itll work for young, old, big, and small puppers alike.
Features:
- Real, cage-free chicken is the first ingredient
- Made with several different nutritious grains
- Formulated with probiotics to support digestion
- Suitable for all life stages (including large-breed puppies)
- Made with an unusual assortment of antioxidant-rich produce
Ingredients List
Chicken, Chicken Meal, Whole Grain Brown Rice, Cracked Pearled Barley, White Rice...,
Dried Yeast, Chicken Fat (Preserved With Mixed Tocopherols), Egg Product, Grain Sorghum, Dried Beet Pulp, Natural Flavor, Flaxseed, Salmon Oil (Source Of DHA), Potassium Chloride, Salt, Dl-Methionine, Choline Chloride, Dried Chicory Root, Kale, Chia Seed, Pumpkin, Blueberries, Oranges, Quinoa, Dried Kelp, Coconut, Spinach, Carrots, Papaya, Yucca Schidigera Extract, Dried Lactobacillus Plantarum Fermentation Product, Dried Bacillus Subtilis Fermentation Product, Dried Lactobacillus Acidophilus Fermentation Product, Dried Enterococcus Faecium Fermentation Product, Dried Bifidobacterium Animalis Fermentation Product, Vitamin E Supplement, Beta Carotene, Iron Proteinate, Zinc Proteinate, Copper Proteinate, Ferrous Sulfate, Zinc Sulfate, Manganese Sulfate, Copper Sulfate, Potassium Iodide, Thiamine Mononitrate, Manganese Proteinate, Ascorbic Acid, Vitamin A Supplement, Biotin, Niacin, Calcium Pantothenate, Sodium Selenite, Pyridoxine Hydrochloride, Vitamin B12 Supplement, Riboflavin, Vitamin D3 Supplement, Folic Acid. Contains A Source Of Live (Viable), Naturally Occurring Microorganisms. The Facility In Which This Food Is Made Also Makes Food That May Contain Other Ingredients.
Pros
- Much more affordable than comparable kibbles
- Bursting with antioxidant-rich superfoods
- Fortified with multiple probiotics
- Made with cage-free chicken
- Appropriate for all life stages
Cons
- Contains a few ingredients (such as beet pulp) that some owners like to avoid
- Some dogs werent huge fans of the taste
5. Spot & Tango Unkibble Chicken & Brown Rice
Best Human-Grade Dry Chicken Dog Food
About: Looking for a middle ground between traditional kibble and super-premium fresh food? Spot & Tango may have just what youre looking for. Theyve revolutionized the dry dog food game with their product known as Unkibble a gently dried, shelf-stable, human-grade dog food thats formulated for your specific pooch.
Tasty, nutritious, and shipped directly to your home, Unkibble is making tails wag in a completely new way with their great chicken and brown rice recipe!
Features:
- Veterinarian-formulated recipes
- Customizable dog food comes with a pre-portioned scoop
- Gently dried to provide a taste dogs love
- Minimal ingredient list of whole foods
- Shelf-stable, making it easy to store
- Get 50% offwhen you use code K9OFMINE50at checkout!
Ingredients List
Chicken, brown rice, sweet potatoes, carrots, apples...,
kale, sunflower seeds, ginger root, kelp
Pros
- Most dogs love the taste of this dog food
- Pre-portioned scoop makes serving dinner easy
- Spot & Tango use eco-friendly packaging
- Very simple ingredient list is great for dogs with food allergies
- More affordable than other human-grade dog foods
Cons
- Pricey when compared to traditional kibble
- It doesnt include probiotics or other nutritional extras
6. Blue Buffalo Life Protection Chicken & Brown Rice
Best Chicken Dog Food for Large Breeds
About: Did you know that large-breed dogs have unique nutritional needs that standard kibbles dont always meet? Well, dont worry Blue Buffalos Large Breed Chicken and Rice Recipe is a premium kibble thats specifically designed for big ol pooches.
Packed with Blue Buffalos patented antioxidant-rich LifeSource Bits, this grain-inclusive kibble also contains joint-support supplements and probiotics for gut health.
Features:
- Made in the USA from globally-sourced ingredients
- Features antioxidant-rich LifeSource Bits
- Good source of glucosamine and chondroitin to support joint health
- Contains omega-3 fatty acids to promote a coat health
- Fortified with probiotics to support proper digestion
- A favorite for large-breed dogs, making it a great dog food for Dobermans, Rottweilers, Newfoundlands, and other large-sized canines.
Ingredients List
Deboned Chicken, Chicken Meal, Brown Rice, Oatmeal, Barley...,
Pea Starch, Peas, Flaxseed (source of Omega 3 and 6 Fatty Acids), Pea Fiber, Natural Flavor, Chicken Fat (preserved with Mixed Tocopherols), Pea Protein, Fish Oil (source of EPA-Eicosapentaenoic Acid), Direct Dehydrated Alfalfa Pellets, Potassium Chloride, Dicalcium Phosphate, Calcium Carbonate, Salt, Dried Chicory Root, Potatoes, Alfalfa Nutrient Concentrate, Choline Chloride, Taurine, DL-Methionine, preserved with Mixed Tocopherols, Vitamin E Supplement, Sweet Potatoes, Carrots, Glucosamine Hydrochloride, Garlic, L-Carnitine, Zinc Amino Acid Chelate, Zinc Sulfate, Vegetable Juice for color, Ferrous Sulfate, Iron Amino Acid Chelate, Blueberries, Cranberries, Barley Grass, Parsley, Turmeric, Dried Kelp, Yucca Schidigera Extract, Niacin (Vitamin B3), Calcium Pantothenate (Vitamin B5), L-Ascorbyl-2-Polyphosphate (source of Vitamin C), L-Lysine, Copper Sulfate, Biotin (Vitamin B7), Vitamin A Supplement, Copper Amino Acid Chelate, Manganese Sulfate, Chondroitin Sulfate, Manganese Amino Acid Chelate, Thiamine Mononitrate (Vitamin B1), Riboflavin (Vitamin B2), Vitamin D3 Supplement, Vitamin B12 Supplement, Pyridoxine Hydrochloride (Vitamin B6), Calcium Iodate, Dried Yeast, Dried Enterococcus faecium fermentation product, Dried Lactobacillus acidophilus fermentation product, Dried Aspergillus niger fermentation extract, Dried Trichoderma longibrachiatum fermentation extract, Dried Bacillus subtilis fermentation extract, Folic Acid (Vitamin B9), Sodium Selenite, Oil of Rosemary.
Pros
- Specifically designed for large-breed dogs
- Great combination of quality and price
- Contains probiotics, joint supplements, and probiotics
- Most dogs love the taste
- Many owners noted improved coat condition
Cons
- Some dogs may pick around the LifeSource Bits
- Some owners like to avoid parsley, but the quantities present are unlikely to be a problem
Hey there, pupper parents! Ben, here.
Ive been feeding my pooch Blue Buffalo Large Breed Chicken and Rice for about four years now, and it has worked marvelously for us (full disclosure: I sometimes switch to their Healthy Weight Large Breed Recipe for a month or so when I go overboard on the treats).
I love that it is fortified with probiotics and joint supplements, and she loves that it is full of tasty chicken and chicken meal. I also appreciate that it is a grain-inclusive recipe thats packed with tons of vitamin- and antioxidant-rich produce.
My not-so-little lady is a bit picky, so I usually spritz it with some of Open Farms Bone Broth, but on those rare occasions I run out, she still chows down like a champ.
Its not the most affordable option around, but I dont mind paying a few bucks more a month to give her such a high-quality food.
7. Nutro Natural Choice Small Breed Chicken & Brown Rice
Best Chicken Dog Food for Small Breeds
About: Do you have a pint-sized pooch at home? Its important that you select a dog food designed to suit her unique nutritional needs. Fortunately, this chicken dog food by NUTRO does exactly that!
Made in the USA, stuffed full of chicken, and formed into bite-size kibblets suitable for small mouths, this is a great small and toy breed dog food option.
And just for added awesomeness, this recipe is full of whole grains and antioxidant-rich produce to ensure your pups long-term health.
Features:
- Chicken and chicken meal are the first two ingredients
- Made with fiber-rich ingredients to aid digestion
- Made without corn, wheat, or soy
- Small-sized kibbles are easy for small and toy breeds to chew
- Made in the USA with globally sourced ingredients
Ingredients List
Chicken, Chicken Meal, Whole Grain Barley, Split Peas...,
Brewers Rice, Whole Grain Brown Rice, Chicken Fat (preserved with Mixed Tocopherols), Natural Flavor, Rice Bran, Whole Grain Oatmeal, Whole Flaxseed, Dried Plain Beet Pulp, Potassium Chloride, Choline Chloride, Citric Acid (preservative), Mixed Tocopherols (preservative), Chia Seed, Dried Coconut, DL-Methionine, Dried Tomato Pomace, Dried Egg Product, Dried Pumpkin, Dried Kale, Dried Spinach, Salt, Vitamin E Supplement, Ferrous Sulfate, Zinc Oxide, Sodium Selenite, Ascorbic Acid (Vitamin C), Manganese Sulfate, Copper Sulfate, D-Calcium Pantothenate, Biotin, Thiamine Mononitrate (Vitamin B1), Vitamin B12 Supplement, Vitamin A Supplement, Niacin Supplement, Riboflavin Supplement (Vitamin B2), Pyridoxine Hydrochloride (Vitamin B6), Vitamin D3 Supplement, Manganous Oxide, Potassium Iodide, Folic Acid, Rosemary Extract
Pros
- Most dogs loved the taste of this chicken dog food
- Full of fiber, vitamins, and omega-3 fatty acids
- Provides great value for your dog-food dollar
- Contains a few antioxidant-rich superfoods
Cons
- May be too crunchy for dogs with dental issues
- Some owners disliked the foods aroma
8. Blue Buffalo Chicken and Rice Puppy Recipe
Best Chicken Dog Food for Puppies
About: If you have a peppy little poultry-lovin puppy at home, you should definitely check out Blue Buffalos Chicken and Rice Puppy Recipe. Featuring the kind of ingredients youd want in a top-notch chicken-based dog food including deboned chicken, whole grains, and nutritious fruits and veggies this is a great dog food for puppies to start your pooch on.
Oh, and did we mention? This chicken dog food is full of omega-3s for brain development and coat health, as well as probiotics for proper digestion.
Features:
- Deboned chicken is the first listed ingredient
- Made without corn, wheat, or soy
- Provides DHA and ARA for healthy brain development
- Small-sized kibbles are perfect for puppies
- Antioxidant-rich and made with blueberries and cranberries
- Made in the USA with globally sourced ingredients
Ingredients List
Deboned Chicken, Chicken Meal, Brown Rice, Oatmeal, Barley...,
Fish Meal (source of Omega 3 Fatty Acids), Peas, Chicken Fat (preserved with Mixed Tocopherols), Natural Flavor, Flaxseed (source of Omega 6 Fatty Acids), Dried Tomato Pomace, Dried Egg Product, Pea Protein, Fish Oil (source of ARA-Arachidonic Acid and DHA- Docosahexaenoic Acid), Salt, Potassium Chloride, Choline Chloride, Direct Dehydrated Alfalfa Pellets, Dicalcium Phosphate, Dried Chicory Root, Potatoes, Pea Fiber, Alfalfa Nutrient Concentrate, Calcium Carbonate, DL-Methionine, preserved with Mixed Tocopherols, Vitamin E Supplement, Sweet Potatoes, Carrots, Garlic, Zinc Amino Acid Chelate, Zinc Sulfate, Vegetable Juice for color, Ferrous Sulfate, Iron Amino Acid Chelate, Blueberries, Cranberries, Barley Grass, Parsley, Turmeric, Dried Kelp, Yucca Schidigera Extract, Niacin (Vitamin B3), Calcium Pantothenate (Vitamin B5), L-Carnitine, L-Ascorbyl-2-Polyphosphate (source of Vitamin C), L-Lysine, Copper Sulfate, Biotin (Vitamin B7), Vitamin A Supplement, Copper Amino Acid Chelate, Manganese Sulfate, Taurine, Manganese Amino Acid Chelate, Thiamine Mononitrate (Vitamin B1), Riboflavin (Vitamin B2), Vitamin D3 Supplement, Vitamin B12 Supplement, Pyridoxine Hydrochloride (Vitamin B6), Calcium Iodate, Dried Yeast, Dried Enterococcus faecium fermentation product, Dried Lactobacillus acidophilus fermentation product, Dried Aspergillus niger fermentation extract, Dried Trichoderma longibrachiatum fermentation extract, Dried Bacillus subtilis fermentation extract, Folic Acid (Vitamin B9), Sodium Selenite, Oil of Rosemary
Pros
- Provides great quality at a reasonable price
- Most dogs love the taste (some owners even use the kibble as training treats)
- Suitable for small- and large-breed puppies alike
- A great source of vitamins and antioxidants
Cons
- A couple of owners reported loose stools
- Contains peas, which some owners like to avoid
9. Nutro Senior Chicken & Brown Rice
Best Chicken Dog Food for Seniors
About: Did you know that senior dogs (defined as those whore 7 to 11 years of age, depending on their size) often need dog food thats specifically designed for aging canine bodies? But dont worry this kibble by Nutro makes it easy to give your golden oldie the nutrition she deserves.
Crafted specifically for senior dogs, this senior dog food with chicken features the proper calcium and mineral levels for older pups, and its packed with antioxidants to keep her immune system operating at peak levels. Oh, and did we mention its tasty too?
Features:
- Whole chicken is the first ingredient
- Great source of calcium to support bone health
- Vitamin-rich recipe designed specifically for seniors
- Packed with antioxidants
- High fiber levels to support proper digestion
Ingredients List
Chicken, Chicken Meal (source of Glucosamine and Chondroitin Sulfate)...,
Whole Grain Barley, Split Peas, Brewers Rice, Whole Grain Brown Rice, Whole Grain Sorghum, Natural Flavor, Chicken Fat (preserved with Mixed Tocopherols), Dried Plain Beet Pulp, Fish Oil (preserved with Mixed Tocopherols), Potassium Chloride, Choline Chloride, Citric Acid (preservative), Mixed Tocopherols (preservative), Chia Seed, Dried Coconut, Dried Tomato Pomace, Dried Egg Product, Dried Pumpkin, Dried Kale, Dried Spinach, DL-Methionine, Salt, Vitamin E Supplement, Ferrous Sulfate, Zinc Oxide, Sodium Selenite, Ascorbic Acid (Vitamin C), D-Calcium Pantothenate, Manganese Sulfate, Copper Sulfate, Biotin, Thiamine Mononitrate (Vitamin B1), Vitamin B12 Supplement, Vitamin A Supplement, Niacin Supplement, Riboflavin Supplement (Vitamin B2), Pyridoxine Hydrochloride (Vitamin B6), Vitamin D3 Supplement, Manganous Oxide, Potassium Iodide, Folic Acid, Rosemary Extract.
Pros
- Very easy to digest even for dogs with sensitive stomachs.
- The smaller-sized kibbles are perfect for aging pups with dental issues
- Appears to boost energy levels
- Contains joint-supporting compounds
Cons
- A small percentage of dogs didnt like the taste
- A couple of owners complained about the foods aroma
10. JustFoodForDogs Chicken Recipe
Best Chicken Dog Food for Picky Pups
About: Some pups are picky eaters its just a fact of four-footed life. Fortunately, there are a few foods that are so ridiculously tasty that your pooch wont be able to resist them. And one of the very best examples is this chicken recipe by JustFoodForDogs.
Cooked up in the USA inside the brands open kitchens, this nutritious dog food with chicken is full of tasty ingredients (including organ meats) thatll drive your picky pupper wild.
Features:
- Suitable for all life stages
- Easy-to-digest recipe is great for dogs with sensitive stomachs
- Cooked in the brands open kitchens
- Minimally processed to preserve nutrients
- Made with fatty (translation: tasty) chicken thighs instead of breast meat
Ingredients List
Chicken thighs, enriched white rice, spinach, carrots, apples...,
chicken gizzards, chicken liver, fish oil, Just Food For Dogs nutrient blend
Pros
- Dogs LOVE the taste of this chicken dog food
- Owners in some locations can actually watch the dog food being prepared
- Auto-shipped to your doorstep, making it super convenient
- Dogs often find chicken thighs tastier than breast meat
Cons
- A subscription is required
- This is a pretty pricey dog food
If Fido doesnt seem interested in his food, it may be time to try out one of the best dog food toppers!
Toppers can entice your dog to chow down and provide nutritional value in some cases. Dog toppers also come in a variety of textures and flavors, so you can find the perfect palette enhancer for your picky pooch.
11. Natural Balance Limited Ingredient
Best Limited-Ingredient Chicken Dog Food
About: Natural Balance Limited Ingredient is catered to sensitive systems with a focused ingredient list featuring a single protein source, which is, you guessed it, chicken. This grain-inclusive recipe fuels your dogs adventures with brown rice, while glucosamine nourishes canine joints.
Another added perk is chicken fat, a flavor bomb ingredient loaded with omega-6 fatty acids for skin and coat health.
Features:
- Real chicken is the top ingredient
- Doesnt include soy, gluten, artificial colors, or artificial flavors
- Taurine supports heart health
- Made in the USA
Ingredients List
Chicken, Chicken Meal, Brown Rice, Brewers Rice, Rice Bran...,
Chicken Fat (Preserved With Mixed Tocopherols), Tomato Pomace, Brewers Dried Yeast, Natural Flavor, Flaxseed, Salt, Dl-Methionine, Taurine, Vitamins (Vitamin E Supplement, Ascorbic Acid, Niacin Supplement, Vitamin A Supplement, Thiamine Mononitrate, D-Calcium Pantothenate, Riboflavin Supplement, Pyridoxine Hydrochloride, Vitamin B12 Supplement, Folic Acid, Vitamin D3 Supplement, Biotin), Menhaden Fish Oil (Preserved With Mixed Tocopherols), Minerals (Zinc Proteinate, Zinc Sulfate, Ferrous Sulfate, Iron Proteinate, Copper Sulfate, Copper Proteinate, Sodium Selenite, Manganese Sulfate, Manganese Proteinate, Calcium Iodate), Potassium Chloride, Choline Chloride, Citric Acid (Preservative), Mixed Tocopherols (Preservative), Rosemary Extract
Pros
- Limited-ingredient nature ideal for dogs with food allergies, intolerances, and sensitive systems
- Kibblet size ideal for dogs big and small
- On the affordable side for a premium limited-ingredient dog food
Cons
- Pickier pups may need enticing to give this food a try
- No fruits or vegetables included
Things to Look for in a Chicken Dog Food
Just because a dog food features a prized protein like chicken, doesnt necessarily mean that its a well-balanced meal for your mutt. Here are three key principles youll want to satisfy when choosing the best, healthiest dog food for your pet:
- Pick a dog food thats formulated to meet or exceed the AAFCO guidelines for your dogs life stage.
- Select a dog food that caters to any specific health ailments or allergies that your dog has.
- Make your dog food selection in conjunction with your veterinarian.
If you find a dog food with chicken that meets these three mandatory criteria, your furry friend will almost certainly receive adequate nutrition, though there are other factors youll want to consider if youre looking for a top tier food such as:
- Aim for a dog food thats made in the USA or another Western country.
- Look for a brand that has a canine nutritionist on staff.
- Seek out a dog food with a whole protein near the top of the ingredients list.
- Opt for dog foods with tons of antioxidants and omega-3 fatty acids.
- Stick to dog foods fortified with extras like glucosamine, chondroitin, and probiotics.
If you find a food thats nearly perfect but missing something important, you may be able to address the problem by using standalone supplements. Check out some of our favorites to help ensure your pooch gets everything she needs!
What About Chicken Meal and Chicken By-Products?
Since were talking about dog food with chicken, lets take a minute to address something that causes a lot of concern and confusion among dog lovers: chicken meal and chicken by-products.
Chicken meal is essentially bits of chicken meat that have been rendered, leaving behind a powder-like protein source. Meanwhile, chicken by-products are comprised of other (edible) parts of the chicken, such as the liver, lungs, and tripe (stomach lining).
These ingredients might not sound appetizing to humans, but theyre both safe and nutritious sources of supplemental protein to include in chicken-based dog foods.
In fact, chicken meal contains several times more protein than fresh chicken (per unit weight), as the water has been cooked off. This is why you might see the ingredient added to dog foods that arent focused around chicken its an easy way to boost the protein content of the food.
It is, however, important that you stick to foods with properly labeled meat meals and by-products. In other words, chicken meal or chicken by-products are fine; meat meal or meat by-products are too vague and best avoided.
The ultimate takeaway is that you dont need to run for the hills when you see these ingredients many very high-quality foods utilize both chicken meal and chicken by-products.
Homemade Chicken Dog Food Recipe
Generally speaking, we dont recommend homemade dog foods since they can make it challenging to provide our dogs with the proper nutrients that they need to feel their best. However, if you are going to go this route, its best to use a recipe looked over by a veterinarian nutritionist like this one from Pet Plate (and even then, youll still need to get final approval from your veterinarian to make sure that its a good fit for Fido).
Ingredients:
- Chicken breast
- Sweet potatoes
- Carrots
- Cooked brown rice
Directions:
Start by cooking the cut chicken in a skillet for 5 minutes on each side. Boil sweet potatoes for about 20 minutes, remove from water, and mash to a desired consistency. Cook cut carrots, sweet potatoes, and cooked chicken in a pan for about 10 minutes. Combine mixture with brown rice and serve once cooled.
Four-Footer Like Fresh Foods?If your dog prefers the freshness of homemade food, its worth considering fresh dog foods as a more nutritionally balanced and consistent alternative.
Best Chicken Dog Food: Frequently Asked Questions
Do you still have your feathers in a ruffle with chicken-based questions? Lets dive into the most commonly asked questions surrounding chicken dog food and chicken itself.
Is chicken dog food good for dogs?
Yes, chicken dog food is a solid choice for dogs who can tolerate the protein. Chicken is a natural source of protein, omega-6 fatty acids, and even glucosamine, a joint-nourishing compound that can benefit older doggos. Chicken is also a leaner protein source than beef or duck, aiding in healthy muscle development while still tasting great.
What is the best chicken dog food?
The best chicken dog food for your pup depends on your dogs needs and your budget. If youre seeking fresh chicken dog food, check out Ollie, and for a kibble-style variety, see Wellness Complete. Remember to keep your dogs life stage in mind, too, with the nutrient needs of seniors being vastly different from puppies.
Is chicken healthy for dogs?
Chicken is a healthy source of protein thats lean, packed with omega-6 fatty acids, and rich in amino acids. It promotes lean muscle development and fuels your doggo with energy, plus has a taste most floofs enjoy, encouraging your pup to clean their bowl.
That said, while chicken is an all-star protein, it isnt tolerated by every pup and is common among canine food allergies. If you notice your dog itching (especially at his paws or rear) or coming down with red ears after switching to a chicken dog food, consult your vet.
Can dogs have raw chicken?
No. Dogs and humans alike can get sick from consuming or even handling raw chicken, as it can contain salmonella. Salmonella infection can lead to fever, diarrhea, and vomiting in dogs, potentially requiring hospitalization.
Can you put chicken in your dogs food?
You can certainly supplement your dogs diet with real chicken as a protein-packed add-on, but make sure you account for its calories and adjust mealtime portions accordingly. Too many extra calories can lead to weight gain, putting extra stress on your four-footers joints.
If your dog has any health conditions, ask your vet first, especially if feeding a special diet. While tasty, the extra protein in chicken can be a problem for some pups.
***
Chicken serves as a staple protein due to its high protein content, low calories, and delicious flavor. Hopefully, weve made your quest to find the perfect chicken food for your furry friend a tiny bit easier.
Does your dog like chicken? Have you tried out any of these chicken dog food options? Tell us all about it in the comments below!
