Pet food in 2025 is far more sophisticated than ever — packed with top-notch ingredients, customized nutrition according to life stage, and even veterinarian-developed formulas for animals with special health concerns. From budget-friendly kibble to gourmet, grain-free meals to sensitive-stomach diets, we’ve rounded up the best pet food options for every type of furry friend.
Best Overall Pet Food
Best Overall:
Hill’s Science Diet Chicken & Barley Recipe Adult
Type: Dry Food
Main Protein: Chicken
Best For: All sizes of adult dogs
Features: Antioxidants vet-researched, minerals balanced, protein high quality
What We Love It: Hill’s Science Diet offers vet-recommended balanced nutrition. This formula helps to maintain lean muscle mass and promotes healthy digestion and skin and coat, making it suitable for the majority of adult pets.
Best Budget Pet Food
Top Pick:
Purina ONE Smart Blend Natural Formula
Type: Dry Food
Main Protein: Real Chicken
Best For: Owners on a budget
There are few conversations that aren’t worthy of discussing the benefits of the right supplement, and few supplements more versatile than this one.
Why We Like It: Purina ONE contains real chicken as the first ingredient with no artificial fillers for great nutrition at a good price. It’s widely accessible and appropriate for pets with average dietary needs.
Best Premium Food for Puppies and Kittens
Best Overall:
Royal Canin Dry Food Puppy/Kitten
Type: Breed-Specific Kibble
Key Protein: Chicken meal or by-product meal
Most Suitable: Young pets (under 12 months old)
Features: Growth, immune system support with high protein and fat
Why We Love It: Royal Canin designs food for breed and size, so puppies and kittens receive the nutrients they need to start off right. Good for bone growth, digestive health, and immunity support.
Best Smart & Specialized Pet Food
Best Pick:
Fresh Dog/Cat Food Subscription Nom Nom
Type: Fresh, Human-Grade
Your knowledge: Do you take chicken, turkey, beef, or pork as your primary source of protein?
Best For: Pets with food allergies or restrictions
Specialties: Freshly prepared, tailor-made, vet
Why We Love It: Nom Nom provides personalized, pre-portioned meals made with real, whole ingredients. It’s a great fit for pet owners who prioritize transparency, freshness, and vet-crafted nutrition.
Best Food for Senior Pets
Best Overall:
Blue Buffalo Life Protection Formula Senior
Type: Dry Food
Main Protein: Deboned Chicken
Best For: Older pets
If you feed your dog this food, you’ll need to check the ingredients for different types of nutrients that the pet needs.
Why We Like It: Older pets need a little extra love. Blue Buffalo’s senior formula helps with joint health and weight control while also boosting immunity with life-source bits — an excellent option for older furry friends.
Choosing the Right Pet Food
Age-Based Needs:
Puppies/Kittens: Rich in calories and protein
For Adults: Nutrients for Energy and Muscle Balance
Seniors: Less active, added support for joints and brain
Pet Size: Small Breeds: Energy-dense foods.
Large Breeds: Formulas that help protect the joints and control the obesity.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
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What is the best food I can feed my pet?
It depends on their age, size, and health. Adult pets do well on balanced dry food, while puppies and kittens require high-protein formulas. Consult your vet for tailored recommendations.
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Can I feed my pet human food?
No. Most human food has spices, fats, or sweeteners that can harm pets.
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What is a limited ingredient diet?
It’s made with fewer components to aid in isolating food allergies or sensitivities, typically revolving around one protein and carb source.
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Is raw food safe for pets?
Raw diets are effective, but they need to be carefully handled and balanced. Always talk to your vet before going raw.
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How can I be sure my pet has a food allergy?
Watch for symptoms such as itching, vomiting, diarrhoea, or ear infections. An elimination diet — supervised by your vet — can help diagnose the problem.
