Best affordable dog food, with guidance from veterinarians

Feeding your dog on a budget doesn't mean you have to sacrifice nutrition. Dr. Lisa Weeth, a board-certified veterinary nutritionist, says she doesn't equate quality with cost. Instead, she prioritizes nutritional content and the manufacturer's reputation. With that in mind, we've selected the best affordable dog foods that deliver strong nutritional value.

Whether it's a budget or premium option, a quality dog food contains a balanced mix of proteins, fats, carbohydrates, and beneficial fibers and meets the nutrition standards set by the Association of American Feed Control Officials (AAFCO). The main difference is that lower-cost foods often use more concentrated protein sources, such as meat meals, rely more on plant-based instead of animal-based proteins, and may come in more processed forms like pates, helping reduce costs by nearly half, about 50 cents less per pound for dry food and 70 cents less per can for wet food. You can also find affordable options formulated for breed size or specific health needs, such as sensitive stomachs.

Our top dry food pick is Nature's Recipe Chicken, Barley, and Brown Rice Recipe. This crunchy kibble is an affordable option that combines nutrient-rich meat and meat meals with a healthy serving of fiber to help keep dogs satisfied between meals. For wet food, we recommend Hill's Science Diet Adult Beef and Barley Entree, which is flavored with nutritious liver and contains whole-grain corn for energy and fermentable fibers for digestive support. Below, you can find all of our picks for budget-friendly dog food, including puppy kibble for optimal growth and a senior food that may help reduce joint inflammation.

Read more about how Business Insider Reviews tests and evaluates pet products.

Our picks for the best affordable dog foods

How we chose the best affordable dog foods

I've been covering the pet food beat for Business Insider Reviews since 2023 and have spoken to several veterinary nutritionists about what to look for in high-quality dog and cat food. For this guide, I consulted a veterinary nutritionist and four small animal veterinarians. These experts didn't recommend specific foods, but they helped me determine what makes for quality dog food and how to feed your dog safely and affordably.

I also followed the standards from the Association of American Feed Control Officials (AAFCO), the World Small Animal Veterinary Association (WSAVA) Global Nutrition Guidelines, and the guidance of other publications and organizations linked in this article. These resources helped me assess brand reputation through quality control standards and recipe formulation. Finally, I considered each food's cost per pound or ounce, weighing price tags against ingredient quality, nutritional value, and feeding guidelines. All of my recommendations offer a great balance of affordability, nutrition, and convenience.

Best dry

Why we recommend it

Whether your dog loves the crunchy texture of dry food or you appreciate its low cost and convenience, Nature's Recipe Chicken, Barley, and Brown Rice Recipe is a great choice. It includes meat meals, which provide nutrient-rich organ protein while keeping the price low. In addition to meat meals, this recipe contains oatmeal, barley, and brown rice. These ingredients not only give your dog energy but also provide soluble fiber, which helps slow digestion and keep them feeling full.

While Nature's Recipe's parent company, Post Consumer Brands, is best known for more than two centuries of making pantry staples, it also brings over 60 years of expertise in pet nutrition. A quality pet food brand should be well-established with decades of experience, Weeth says. Under the Post umbrella, Nature's Recipe benefits from a team of experts in animal and food science, as well as a board-certified veterinary nutritionist on staff. This recipe, along with all of our dog food recommendations, is formulated by a pet nutrition expert.

It costs about $1 less per pound than the premium picks in our best dry dog foods guide, where you'll find more recommendations for dogs of all ages and sizes.

Why does dry dog food cost less than wet food?

Several factors make dry dog food more budget-friendly than wet food. Because kibble contains less water — about 10% to 12% moisture compared to up to 78% in wet food — and weighs less than wet food, it costs less to transport. With wet food, the extra transportation costs are passed on to consumers.

There are also differences in production and packaging. Wet food requires high-pressure canning or pouching, while dry food is produced in large batches via extrusion, a more efficient and cost-effective process. Plus, dry food has a longer shelf life once opened and doesn't require refrigeration.

The inclusion of byproducts and meat meals can also keep costs down. When a label simply says "byproduct" or "meat meal," it means the food contains whichever organ meats were most affordable at the time of production. Weeth says this helps you save money while still packing in the nutrients.

Best wet

Why we recommend it

Trying a new dog food is always a gamble. If your dog won't eat it, they're not just missing out on nutrients; you're also out the money you spent. That's why palatability matters as much as nutrition when choosing a food. Hill’s Science Diet Adult Beef and Barley Entree balances palatability and nutrition with real beef liver and chicken liver flavoring. Dr. Nancy Welborn, a veterinarian and associate professor of community practice at Louisiana State University School of Veterinary Medicine, says liver tends to be a preferred food among dogs, so you can count on this recipe to deliver flavor your pup will enjoy. Liver is also rich in essential vitamins and minerals that support a healthy immune system, skin, and coat. Other key ingredients include whole grain corn for energy and barley and dried beet pulp for digestive support.

Hill’s has been a household name for over 75 years. Weeth says longevity matters because it means the brand has had plenty of time to refine its formulas, build trust with veterinarians, and ensure consistent quality. This recipe has also been validated through feeding trials, which means real dogs have thrived on — and readily eaten — this food.

Why might a veterinarian recommend wet dog food?

“Wet food is typically 70% to 80% water, so it can be an easy way to add more fluid into a dog's diet,” says Dr. Colleen Lambo, a relief veterinarian with Roo. “That can be particularly beneficial for dogs with chronic kidney disease, a history of certain bladder stones, or dogs that don't naturally drink enough water.” While wet food should not replace access to a water bowl, it also provides moisture that is beneficial in other situations. Its soft texture is often easier to chew, which is why Lambo says vets may recommend it for dogs who’ve had teeth removed or for puppies being weaned off their mother’s milk. Dr. Rebecca Greenstein, veterinary medical advisor for Rover, adds that the extra moisture gives the food a more pungent smell, which can help entice picky eaters. Your vet may also recommend a wet food diet as part of a weight management plan because the extra water helps dogs feel fuller on fewer calories.

Best fresh

Why we recommend it

The Farmer’s Dog offers seven recipes, and subscribers can choose up to three per box. We especially like the brand’s grain-inclusive recipes — chicken, pork, and beef — which run roughly 20% cheaper per daily serving than its grain-free options. Grain-inclusive dog foods come with no nutritional trade-offs. “Dogs are omnivores and even wild dogs eat plants and grains as part of their normal diet,” says Dr. Bruce Kornreich, a board-certified veterinary cardiologist at the Cornell University College of Veterinary Medicine. The savings become more pronounced as your dog’s size increases. For an active 45-pound dog, other fresh food options can cost up to 45% more a day.

In The Farmer’s Dog grain-inclusive recipes, oats provide soluble fiber that helps slow digestion, supporting regular bowel movements and a feeling of fullness. Liver adds palatability, while salmon oil provides omega fatty acids — the beneficial fats we highlight in our guide to the best fish oil for dogs.

Like our other picks for affordable dog food, The Farmer’s Dog meets all WSAVA guidelines. Founded in 2014 as one of the first fresh dog food subscription services, its team includes a full-time board-certified companion animal nutritionist and a veterinary nutritionist. The brand has also validated its recipes through AAFCO feeding trials and completed a yearlong feeding study in partnership with Cornell University College of Veterinary Medicine.

We’ve tried the subscription with two of our own dogs, a 20-pound cavapoo and a 50-pound pit mix. You can read more about our experience in our full review of The Farmer’s Dog.

Is fresh dog food worth the cost?

Feeding your pet fresh food is a matter of personal preference rather than a nutritional requirement. “Fresh foods may be more appealing to human shoppers, but they aren’t necessarily any healthier than conventional foods,” says Dr. Jo Myers, a veterinarian with Vetster. When choosing the best fresh dog food for your pet, she recommends looking past marketing buzz and focusing on objective criteria, such as the brand’s experience and expertise in animal nutrition, as well as its quality control standards.

That said, there’s a reason fresh food costs more: Those chunky vegetables and cuts of meat your dog loves are more expensive to produce than kibble or canned food. Fresh recipes require refrigeration or freezing throughout the supply chain, have a much shorter shelf life, and are typically made in smaller batches than shelf-stable alternatives. The most important factors when weighing the cost of any food are simple: Can you reliably serve it, will your dog eat it, and does it meet national nutritional recommendations for your dog’s life stage and lifestyle?

Best for sensitive stomachs

Why we recommend it

If a dog is on an ideal diet, Weeth says the number of times they poop each day should roughly match the number of meals they eat. If your dog is going more or less often than that, has loose or soft stool, or shows other signs of a sensitive stomach, talk to your veterinarian about an appropriate diet. There are affordable, non-prescription diets designed to help dogs with these kinds of digestive issues. These formulas may cost slightly more than standard dog food, but we found the most cost-effective, science-backed option: Purina Pro Plan Sensitive Skin and Stomach Salmon and Rice Entree.

This recipe includes rice and potatoes, simple carbohydrates that provide energy while also being gentle on the stomach. Soluble fiber from oatmeal and dried chicory root (inulin) helps absorb excess moisture and regulate digestion. The primary protein is fish, including omega-3 fatty-acid rich salmon. Fish are typically easy to digest, and their fatty acids may help reduce inflammation and support digestive health, says Dr. Nita Vasudevan, a veterinarian and veterinary consultant for Embrace Pet Insurance.

This recipe also comes in a kibble formula, which is a more cost-effective option, especially for large dogs. Both recipes are backed by research at the Purina Institute, a research group owned by Nestlé. The group works with veterinary organizations and universities to better understand pet nutrition.

Is wet food better for sensitive stomachs?

“Low fat, protein, simple carbs, and high water content typically make a diet more digestible,” says Dr. Julia Jenkins, senior veterinarian at Small Door Veterinary. She adds that no single diet fits every dog, since every gastrointestinal system is unique, and a diet only helps if your dog is actually willing to eat it. Higher water content across diets can also make food more palatable, which can encourage a dog to eat more even when they are feeling unwell. Higher water content can also help prevent or reverse dehydration in dogs with diarrhea and help keep stool moving in dogs who are constipated.

Best for puppies

Why we recommend it

Growing puppies need a food that's packed with nutrients to keep pace with their rapid development. Purina One +Plus Healthy Puppy Formula delivers at a price that won't break the bank, making it our pick for the best budget-friendly puppy food for all breeds. It contains omega-3 fatty acids from fish oil to support brain and eye development. Our experts say omega fatty acids are an essential nutrient for growing puppies.

With carbohydrate sources like whole grain corn, this food is ideal for active puppies exploring their big new world. "Carbohydrates are needed for energy," Weeth says. Complex carbohydrates are also a good source of fiber that supports digestion, while chicken protein helps build strong muscles. As puppies age, their demand for certain nutrients decreases. However, the most common reason to consider switching to an adult food is to prevent obesity, explains Dr. Emily Luisana, a board-certified veterinary nutritionist and co-founder of Peak Veterinary Specialists. “Ideally this is not done until skeletal maturity is achieved,” she says. Toy and small breeds typically reach full skeletal maturity between 6 and 12 months, medium breeds between 8 and 18 months, and large and giant breeds anywhere from 11 months to 2 years.

You can find more highly nutritious puppy food options, including those for large and small breed puppies, in our guide to the best puppy foods.

Do puppies need dry or wet food?

Puppies can eat dry or wet food, or a combination of both, as long as it’s formulated for growth or all life stages. Dogs typically don't become picky eaters based on the food they had as puppies, Weeth says. This means you can exclusively feed them dry food, which is often cheaper than wet puppy food, without worrying. If you ever need to switch to wet food later, such as for a medical reason or after a tooth extraction, your puppy should adjust fine.

Best for small dogs

Why we recommend it

Dogs rely on a healthy balance of protein, fats, and carbohydrates in a calorie-dense formula to power through their days. Blue Buffalo Life Protection Formula Adult Small Breed Chicken and Brown Rice Recipe delivers these essential nutrients in bite-sized pieces perfect for smaller mouths. Antioxidant-rich ingredients like sweet potatoes, blueberries, and cranberries may help support liver, kidney, and brain health. Plus, sweet potatoes and chicory root provide beneficial fiber for healthy digestion. At 398 calories per cup, this formula keeps up with the fast metabolism of small breed pups, so your dog won't be left running on empty.

Blue Buffalo was founded in 2003, inspired by a beloved Airedale Terrier named Blue. General Mills now owns the brand, and it's available in all 50 states and numerous countries at pet stores, supermarkets, and online retailers. For more small breed formulas for pups of all ages, check out our guide to the best dog foods for small dogs.

What unique nutritional needs do small dogs have?

Small dogs have faster metabolisms than larger breeds, so they typically need more calorie-dense food relative to their size. Because of their smaller mouths, they also do best with smaller kibble that's easier to chew. Like all the foods on this list, the best foods for small breeds should either be formulated to meet the AAFCO nutritional standards or tested through feeding trials to ensure safety and nutrition.

Best for large dogs

Why we recommend it

Wet food isn’t the cheapest dog food, and costs can add up even quicker when you’re feeding a large breed. To keep expenses down without sacrificing nutrition, we recommend Iams Proactive Health Large Breed Chicken and Whole Grain Rice Recipe. The large kibbles encourage dogs to chew, preventing big dogs from gulping down their meal.

This recipe features chicken and chicken meal as high-quality protein sources, with the chicken meal also providing glucosamine and chondroitin. Dr. Ashly Smith, a small animal veterinarian and regional medical director for Small Door Veterinary, says these nutrients may support joint health and mobility. It also contains dried beet pulp, a great source of fermentable fiber that helps keep digestion regular and promotes a lasting feeling of fullness between meals.

Mars, Incorporated owns Iams and distributes its pet food in more than 40 countries. The company also manufactures the well-regarded premium pet food brands Royal Canin and Eukanuba.

What unique nutritional needs do large dogs have?

Generally, large dog breeds are more prone to joint issues like hip dysplasia and arthritis. Feeding the best large-breed puppy food during growth is the first line of defense against these long-term issues. But joint support shouldn't stop once a dog reaches adulthood. Many of the best large-breed dog foods feature joint-supporting additions, such as fish oil, glucosamine, and chondroitin, which are also found in the best joint supplements for dogs. Being overweight can exacerbate joint issues. Large-breed formulas tend to have a slightly lower calorie density than small-breed food, since bigger dogs are more prone to obesity. Portion control is also essential to prevent overfeeding and excess weight gain.

Some large breed dogs are also at risk of bloat. Large, deep-chested dogs, including Great Danes, Saint Bernards, German Shepherds, Irish Setters, Rottweilers, and Boxers, are at the highest risk of developing gastric dilation-volvulus, or bloat, Jenkins says. It is a life-threatening condition in which the stomach becomes distended with gas and fluid and then twists on its axis. Eating too quickly, gulping air or water with meals, and heavy exercise right before or after eating are also risk factors. In addition to feeding smaller portions, moistening dry food before feeding, using slow-feeder bowls, and avoiding strenuous exercise close to mealtimes, a larger kibble size can encourage dogs to chew their food and eat more slowly.

Best for senior dogs

Why we recommend it

The best budget foods for seniors are formulated to meet their nutritional needs and help manage age-related conditions like decreased mobility, muscle loss, and cognitive decline. While large breed dogs may enter their senior years around 5 years old, smaller breeds typically reach this stage around age 10.

Whatever your dog's size, Iams ProActive Health Healthy Aging Chicken and Whole Grain Recipe delivers key ingredients for many enjoyable golden years, like marine microalgae, a more sustainable source of omega fatty acids than fish oil. Whole grain carbohydrates provide energy for your young-at-heart senior, while beet pulp aids digestion. L-carnitine helps prevent weight gain and preserve muscle mass, alongside a healthy serving of chicken and chicken byproduct meal. To round out this senior recipe, antioxidant-rich carrots may help combat oxidative damage, reducing the risk of learning and memory decline in senior dogs.

This recipe also comes in a wet food formula. It costs slightly more per serving but may be easier for dogs with multiple missing teeth to eat, Luisana says. While wet food can help with weight management because the extra water helps dogs feel fuller, Lambo says its pungent smell can also entice older dogs with a declining appetite to eat. Our guide to the best senior dog food includes more recommendations for wet and dry food.

What unique nutritional needs do senior dogs have?

Dogs age differently depending on their breed and overall health. Some of the most common age-related conditions in dogs are joint issues, cognitive decline, and weight management. The best food for senior dogs can help prevent, manage, or slow down these conditions. Omega-3 fatty acids support joint health, while antioxidants may help slow cognitive decline. Portion control is also important for keeping your senior dog at a healthy weight, since excess weight can exacerbate joint issues and increase the risk of other conditions, like diabetes mellitus.

What to look for in an affordable dog food

When shopping for the best affordable dog foods, there's no need to cut corners. Focus on the essential qualities below that make any dog food a quality choice.

AAFCO nutritional adequacy: The Association of American Feed Control Officials (AAFCO) is a nonprofit organization that determines nutritional standards for pet food. Every food we recommend includes a statement on the label confirming it meets the AAFCO's nutritional standards through formulation or feed-trial testing. "It's important because it helps owners identify whether a pet food is complete and balanced for their pet's life stage," Vasudevan says. Lambo agrees: “I would start by looking for an AAFCO statement confirming that the diet is complete and balanced for your dog's life stage, and then ask your veterinarian whether it's appropriate for your individual dog.” You can learn more about the AAFCO standards in our guide to the best dog food.

WSAVA nutrition guidelines: The World Small Animal Veterinary Association (WSAVA) is a global network of veterinary professionals dedicated to improving the health and welfare of companion animals — not just through nutrition, but also by considering disease prevention and management, says Dr. Caitlin Johnson, a veterinarian at Lovet Pet Health Care. The Global Nutrition Guidelines published by WSAVA help veterinarians and pet owners make informed decisions about pet food. "They recommend selecting brands that employ veterinary nutritionists, conduct feeding trials, and follow strict quality control and safety testing," Vasudevan says.

Guaranteed analysis and calories: Johnson says a food's overall nutrient profile is more important than nitpicking its individual ingredients. You can find the nutrient profile in the guaranteed analysis on the pet food label, including the minimum protein and fat levels and the maximum fiber and moisture. Calorie content varies widely across food types and brands and is listed as kilocalories (kcal) per cup or ounce on dog food labels.

Brand reputation: Weeth says the best affordable dog food brands have 20 years or more of experience in pet food manufacturing and sales. This gives you more insight into their track record, including pet food recalls. Johnson says most veterinarians recommend the "big four brands" — Hill's, Royal Canin, Purina, and Eukanuba — and she would add budget-friendly Iams Proactive Health to that list as well. All of these brands employ board-certified veterinary nutritionists to ensure their food is balanced and safe for consumption, she says. While Eukanuba and Royal Canin are reputable brands, their prices rise above a budget-friendly price range, so we didn't include them in this guide.

Manufacturing standards: When choosing dog food, consider the brand's manufacturing standards and quality control measures. Weeth says brands that own their own manufacturing facilities have greater oversight of their ingredients and production processes. Some brands share this information on their websites as part of their transparency pledge. If you can't find it online, you may need to reach out to the company directly.

Weeth also says to consider a brand's distribution reach. Companies that only sell locally may face fewer regulatory requirements than those that distribute nationally. Brands sold at major retailers like Amazon and Chewy ship to all 48 contiguous states, which means they must comply with the strictest regulations. This provides an added layer of quality assurance.

Ingredients: Because dogs are omnivores, a balanced recipe will include proteins, fats, and carbohydrates. Just as important as what's included in your dog's food is what's left out. For instance, Johnson says grain-free diets have become a popular fad, often marketed as a solution for allergies. However, these diets have been linked to dilated cardiomyopathy (DCM), a preventable heart disease in dogs. Additionally, Tufts University says grains provide essential plant-based protein, fiber, and fatty acids, making them a valuable part of the canine diet.

Don't be put off by recipes that contain byproducts, Weeth says. Byproducts and meat meals are nutritious organ meats, such as hearts, spleens, and livers. Some brands market their food as "byproduct-free" while still including organ meats in the ingredient list. When a recipe specifies ingredients like "beef liver," Weeth says it's still using byproducts, just listing them individually, which can drive up the cost. Ingredient lists that include "byproducts" or "meals" are formulated using the most cost-effective options available at the time.

It may be tempting to splurge on dog food that includes US Department of Agriculture (USDA) graded meats or human-grade ingredients, but Vasudevan says it's not necessary. "They don't always equate to better nutrition for pets," she says. The main difference lies in handling and storage. Human-grade ingredients must comply with USDA regulations and be made in USDA-inspected facilities. Non-human-grade ingredients are regulated by the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA), and the safety standards may be less stringent. While pet foods made through either route are safe, if your pet has severe allergies or digestive issues, you might choose human-grade food for its stringent quality control and production standards.

Price per pound and feeding guidelines: To compare the cost of dry food (priced per pound) and wet food (priced per ounce), you'll need to determine how much your dog will eat, as portion sizes vary depending on the food's calorie content. You can refer to the feeding guidelines on the label or bag to estimate how many servings are in a can or bag. However, these recommendations are rough estimates. Your veterinarian can help determine the best daily calorie intake for your dog based on their age, health, and target weight.

Auto-shipping discounts: You can save more money on pet food when you order from some online retailers. Sites like Chewy, Amazon, and Petco offer discounts on recurring shipments or subscription plans.

Affordable dog food FAQs

What should I feed my dog on a budget?

Dry dog food, also called kibble, is often more affordable than wet food. However, our experts say the most important factor, regardless of cost, is that the food is complete and balanced for your dog, which is indicated by an AAFCO statement on the packaging. Johnson says veterinarians often recommend Hill's, Purina, and Iams, as these brands employ board-certified veterinary nutritionists and offer a range of recipes, including options for specific health needs and budgets.

What is the difference between high-quality and low-quality dog food?

Our experts say high-quality dog food, regardless of price, meets the AAFCO nutritional standards, which include a balanced mix of proteins, fats, carbohydrates, and beneficial fibers. It also adheres to the WSAVA nutritional guidelines and comes from a well-established brand known for its consistency and product quality. On the other hand, low-quality diets are often not nutritionally complete and balanced and may include fad or boutique options like grain-free diets, Johnson says.

Who has the cheapest dog food prices?

In general, online retailers such as Amazon and Chewy have the most competitive pricing on dog food. You can save more by signing up for recurring shipments or subscription plans, which often offer small discounts and the convenience of scheduled deliveries.

Where can I get dog food if I can't afford it?

Many communities have food pantries and food banks — some specifically for pets — that provide free or low-cost pet food. You can find a pet food bank near you by visiting Pet Help Finder and selecting "Food Pantry and Supplies" from the dropdown selection. Your county animal services, local pet shelters, or humane societies can also connect you to resources or may provide pet food directly.

If you don't need emergency assistance but are still working with a limited budget, there are healthy options for your dog. Vasudevan says a budget-friendly diet that meets AAFCO standards is better than an unbalanced homemade diet or inconsistent meals. "A well-fed pet is a healthy pet, and your love and care matter more than a fancy food label," she says. We recommend Nature's Recipe Chicken, Barley, and Brown Rice Recipe. It contains nutrient-rich meat meals, which provide excellent nutrition at a lower cost.

What is the best way to switch a dog's food?

The best way to switch your dog's food without causing digestive upset is to follow a slow transition spanning about a week. "We aim for a ratio of 75:25 old food to new food for 2 to 3 days, then 50:50 ratio for 2 to 3 days, then a 25:75 ratio for 2 to 3 days, then going 100% in with the new food," Johnson says.

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