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The most asked question by dog lovers everywhere - 'Which is the best dog food ?'
Clearly there isn't a simple answer. With so many factors to consider, it's impossible to pick one dog food brand that would be the best choice for all dogs.
It will depend on your preferences as much as your dog's. Many dog lovers swear by a raw diet, others love the convenience of dry dog food, whilst dogs with allergies and sensitive stomachs can benefit from tailored or fresh dog food.
There are also new innovative options to consider including insect-based, cold pressed and air-dried dog foods.
What is undeniable, is that the dog food market is changing rapidly and we as customers are the ultimate winners.
When was the last time you went to a Travel Agent to book a holiday ? Bought a music CD to listen to one song or waited for a film to come out on DVD ?
You no longer need to trudge back to your car with a 15kg bag of dog food. Pet food deliveries have more than doubled in four years according to the latest figures from independent parcel carrier Yodel.
As more and more of us are scrutinising our dog's food, prioritising their health and wellbeing whilst looking for sustainable and ethical brands, the pet food industry has sat up and listened.
Dog food has traditionally been dominated by global brands (Royal Canin, Hills Science, Purina, Pedigree), but as we modern dog-lovers search for specialised nutrition and high-quality human ingredients, private label dog foods are taking the dog food market by storm.
There's a whole range of brands revolutionising the face of UK dog food, and we've included the best of canine cuisine in our round up.
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Dive Deep or Take a Quick Bite!
Our comprehensive dog food review is packed with details and money-saving offers to help you find the perfect fit for your furry friend. Jump to specific sections using the links below, or settle in for a deep dive – the choice is yours!
UPDATED : JANUARY 2025 Following our latest round of testing, we've added Wilsons Award Winning Cold Pressed dog food and Edgard & Cooper dry food. |
What are the Best Dog Foods in 2025 ? At a Glance
4. Best Raw Dog Food - Naturaw
Our Picks of The Best Dog Foods 2025
1. Best Dry Dog Food
Reasons to Buy :
+ Best for convenience
+ Cold pressed & light baked options
+ Long shelf life
+ Kind to your pocket
+ No fridge/freezer space required
Reasons to Avoid :
- Picky dogs tend to prefer wet foods
Behind the Brand: 50 years worth of expertise in Pet Nutrition
Range: Cold Pressed Dry, NEW Lightly Baked Dry & wet food, treats & dental sticks
Variety: Turkey, Duck, Chicken & NEW Salmon
Clarity of Label: Excellent - full list of ingredient %
Price: £
Buying Options :
For 15% OFF
enter our discount code SMARTBARK15 at checkout
Dry dog food or kibble is still an extremely popular choice with many dog lovers. There's no denying that it is the king of convenience.
If you are going to feed dry dog food, can we suggest choosing the best you can afford and while you're at it - get it delivered!
Cold pressed kibbles are still relatively new on the scene but growing in popularity rapidly.
They have all the advantages of more conventional dry foods but without the potentially damaging high temperatures associated with the extrusion methods.
Forthglade's cold pressed dog food is grain free and available in several sizes from a 'try it and see' 1kg bag, to a big 'bumper value' 18kg.
For those of you adept at 'decoding' dog food ingredients - it's worth mentioning that the first and main ingredient is meat.
All About Dog Food rate Forthglade Cold Pressed at 77% which is an exceptionally high nutritional rating for a dry dog food.
This compares to around the 70% mark for popular dry brands such as Wainwrights, James Wellbeloved, Harringtons and Lily's Kitchen. Which makes it nutritionally one of the best dry dog foods on the UK market.
Forthglade isn't just a trusted brand with years of experience, their extensive range of wet foods offers a fantastic way to add variety and flavour to your dog's meals.
While mixing in a wet food topper can slightly increase the cost per serving, the boost in taste and aroma can be well worth it for some of our more picky pups (and their happy tummies!). We feature the Forthglade wet food range later in this review.
Back to Forthglade's dry range - we loved the option of a 1kg trial size pack as nobody wants 18kg left in the cupboard if your dog turns their nose up at it.
Our Labrador 'Taste Tester' Otis (nose & paw pictured), definitely preferred Forthglade to his existing brand when offered both.
Our tester found transition straightforward with no issues. She did however comment that the individual pellets were quite large and crunchy compared to their usual brand, so wondered how small dogs would manage.
It's good to know that Forthglade offer their Turkey variety dry food in a smaller pellet suitable for small dogs, plus they've launched an extended range of wet foods too. Their small dog range is specifically tailored for dogs typically up to 10kg in adult weight
👀 Top Tip - Forthglade's packaging includes a handy window, so you can see the kibble size before buying - which is much better than attempting to feel the kibble size through the packaging !
We know it's a small point nevertheless it's worth mentioning, of all the dry foods we've tested, we found the Forthglade bags the easiest to reseal and keep the dry food fresh.
Each bag has a super-durable velcro strip which our testers loved. We think that this is an important point especially if you're buying a bigger bag.
We love Forthglade's dry food for its quality and variety. While their cold-pressed range offers the ultimate nutritional punch, we understand that budget is a factor for many pet parents.
Forthglade's Lightly Baked Range provides a fantastic and slightly more affordable alternative. These recipes boast an impressive 50% single-source protein and have earned a very respectable 70% rating from All About Dog Food.
Perfect for mixing with their complete wet meals, the Lightly Baked range is available in lamb, chicken and turkey recipes.
👀 Our Top Tip - With Forthglade's Subscribe and Save, you can ensure your dog has a steady supply of delicious, nutritious food, all while saving time and money. It's a win-win for everyone!
Schedule regular deliveries of your dog's favourite Forthglade dry food straight to your door, and enjoy the benefits of:
10% Savings on Every Order: Stock up on your pup's essentials and save!
Free Delivery (over £30): Enjoy the convenience of home delivery without any additional shipping costs.
Our Verdict - Forthglade are one of the most premium, yet affordable dry dog food brands on the market. So if you're looking for a high quality dry dog food which is easy on the pocket, we would recommend Forthglade's Cold Pressed and their cheaper Lightly Baked range. We're not the only ones! The Forthglade cold pressed range received a Highly Commended Award in the Best Dry Dog Food category for 2024 voted for by readers of Your Dog magazine. |
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Cold-Pressed Dog Food Showdown: Forthglade vs Walker & Drake vs Wilsons! Delve deeper into the world of cold-pressed dog food with our detailed comparison. Discover which brand reigns supreme for your furry friend: Unleashing the Goodness: Best Cold Pressed Dog Foods Revealed
2. Best Cold Pressed Dry Dog Food
Reasons to Buy :
+ Winner of 2025 Your Dog Awards
+ Trial boxes available
+ Can combine with raw food
+ Extensive protein range
+ Grain free - allergy friendly
+ Wheat free, chicken free & pea free options
+ Made in UK
Reasons to Avoid :
- Bags aren't resealable
Behind the Brand:
Company producing pet food since 1861
Range:
Premium & Working Dog Cold Pressed, Raw Food, Treats, Supplements & Salmon Oil
Cold Pressed Variety :
Premium, Working Dog & Puppy
Clarity of Label:
OK - Some ingredients without %
Price: £1.38 a day
Based on a 15kg dog + moderate activity + a 10kg bag
Buying Options:
Wilsons has grown from a family business to the UK’s leading manufacturer of cold pressed dog foods. It’s premium complete cold pressed and raw meals are made at its two state of the art facilities, with roots still firmly set in Scotland.
Recent winners of Your Dog Product Awards for 2025 (voted for by readers) - Best Dry Complete Food and Products You Can't Live Without, they've maintained a commitment to simplicity and local sourcing with the focus on natural nutritious ingredients and the avoidance of any junk or fillers.
The first thing to say is that their cold pressed range includes a wide selection of proteins, so you can add plenty of variety to your dog's diet.
Allergy friendly, the majority of recipes are grain free plus there are wheat free, chicken free and pea free options -
🐟 Salmon
🐓 Chicken
🐑 Lamb
🦃 🦆 Turkey & Duck
🦌 🐠 Venison & Trout
🎣 White Fish
🏴 Haggis
🥕🥦 Vegan
All the recipes are made in their Scottish factories using high quality, locally sourced ingredients and true to their Scottish roots, they offer a haggis flavour - which is incredibly popular 🏴
Receiving an average rating of 75% on the Food Nutrition website All About Dog Food (AADF), we don't need to tell you this is exceptionally high for dry dog food.
One of the many things we love about Wilsons is their Sample Boxes. Changing dog foods is a big decision and Wilsons offer a sample selection so your dog can taste test all the recipes before you commit to a larger quantity.
These 100g bags are perfect to test out the various recipes. The Premium range (7 recipes x100g as shown above), Working Dog (5 recipes x100g), and one for Insect & Vegan Protein (6x100g in the two varieties).
For long-term feeding, Wilsons offers convenient 2kg and 10kg bags, plus money-saving bundles with a variety of protein options so you can easily stock up for less.
It's worth mentioning that delivery is FREE when spending over £30 or ordering a max of two Sample Boxes.
Once you (and your dog) are happy, you can enjoy greater savings by taking advantage of Wilsons Subscribe and Save for 10% off regular orders.
Wilsons also offer a Loyalty Club so you can get points on every purchase then use these for money off plus you'll receive exclusive rewards too.
One of the headline features of Wilsons is they are the only company we've come across that offers both raw and cold pressed food ranges formulated to be fed separately or together.
Combining Wilsons raw and cold pressed dry ranges could potentially reduce your daily feeding costs without compromising on quality (and would be so convenient for feeding on-the-go when raw can be a pain).
Lastly, Wilsons now offer an extensive range of dog treats both for training and long lasting chews, salmon oil plus a new range of health supplements.
Our Verdict - We think that Wilsons offer a top quality cold pressed and raw dog food range. Their flexible approach allows for easy mixing of raw and cold pressed foods, making it perfect for travel or feeding-on-the-go. Both achieve excellent nutritional ratings on the AADF website and have recently won some coveted awards. We particularly like their affordable Sample Boxes so your dog can try their food before you make a big financial commitment. |
3. Best Eco-Friendly Dry Dog Food
Reasons to Buy :
+ Ethical dog food company
+ Zero Pawprint Plan + Plant-based options
+ Available online & locally at Pets at Home
+ Extensive range inc. two kibble sizes
+ For multi-pet households, they offer cat food too
Reasons to Avoid :
+ Label clarity not the best
Behind the Brand:
Eco-friendly company producing pet food since 2016
Range:
Dry food, wet food, treats, dental care treats and a cat range
Variety :
9 Meat & fish dry recipes
2 Plant-based dry recipes
Clarity of Label:
Poor - Ingredients without %
Price: £1.41 a day
Based on a 15kg dog + 2 x 7kg bag
Buying Options:
Fancy trying Edgard & Cooper dog food ?
New customers can use discount code SMART20
for 20% OFF the entire range
The third dry food option we recommend is Edgard & Cooper a brand that prioritises both pet health and the planet. Known for their high-quality dog and cat food, they offer a wide range of dry and wet options. We particularly admire their commitment to sustainability.
Edgard & Cooper has a ‘Zero Pawprint Plan’ which outlines its environmental commitments for 2025, including becoming Zero Carbon and adopting fully sustainable packaging.
Moreover, through The Edgard & Cooper Foundation, Edgard & Cooper donates 1% of its profits to animal welfare causes across the globe.
This Zero Pawprint Plan coupled with the aim for fully sustainable packaging, their B Corp status (they are currently one of only five B Corp pet brands), their plant-based recipes and their tree planting Loyalty Scheme, all adds up to mean that we think they are one of the most sustainable pet food brands out there.
So what do we think of their dog food ?
Edgard & Cooper's dry food receives a solid nutritional rating of 64% on AADF, placing them alongside well-respected brands like Wainwrights, James Wellbeloved, Lily's Kitchen, and Harringtons.
Their extensive selection of dry foods offers single source meat and fish proteins as well as combinations and plant-based options -
🐓 Free-Run Chicken
🐟 Norwegian Salmon
🐑 Grass-Fed Lamb
🦌 🦆 Venison & Free-Run Duck
🐄 🐓 Organic Beef & Free-Range Chicken
🦃 🐓 Organic Free-Range Turkey & Chicken
🦆🐓 Free-Run Duck & Chicken
🐟 🦃 Atlantic Salmon & Free-Range Turkey
🐓 🐟 Free-Run Chicken & Norwegian Salmon
🥕 Crispy Carrot & Courgette
🎃 Crunchy Beetroot & Pumpkin
Confused about free-run vs. free-range ? Free-run simply means the birds have the freedom to roam within their barn. Free-range birds have access to both the barn and the outdoors, allowing them to enjoy fresh air and sunshine (weather permitting). |
We love the addition of two plant-based recipes. These hypoallergenic options are packed with fresh veg and a blend of fruit, herbs and pulses formulated to provide all the nutrients your dog needs.
Clearly plant-based dog foods are a better environmentally friendly choice than meat-based dog foods. But you don't need to go completely veggie. Why not consider adding a 'meat free' day to your dog's diet ? You'll be adding variety whilst lowering their carbon pawprint !
Whatever recipe you choose, rest assured all Edgard & Cooper recipes are either grain-free or gluten-free, making them a safe and delicious choice for dogs with sensitivities.
In terms of pack sizes they have the widest range on offer of all the brands we feature -
⭐️ 700g (meat based only) regular kibble
⭐️ 1 kg (plant-based only) regular kibble
⭐️ 2.5kg regular kibble
⭐️ 2x 2.5kg regular kibble
⭐️ 7kg regular kibble
⭐️ 2 x7kg regular kibble
⭐️ 12kg large kibble
⭐️ 2 x 12kg large kibble
Both the biggest packs, 12kg and the 2 x 12kg, are available in a larger kibble size aimed at big dog breeds and those dogs that tend to swallow smaller kibbles whole.
Initially, if you would like to test their food before committing, we think that the 700g or 1kg bags would make a great option to check your dog likes the taste.
Edgard & Cooper also offer three money-saving bundles which include a selection of dry food, wet food and treats. The Adult , Puppy and the Hypoallergenic Starter Bundle (shown here) all offer significant savings on buying the products separately.
Shipping's a breeze with free delivery on orders over £20. And once you're hooked, their Subscribe & Save scheme offers 10% OFF.
The last thing we wanted to mention is that Edgard & Cooper offer a wide selection of wet food options, including tins and tiny trays (they call them 'cups'). While similar in appearance, the tins boast a slightly higher meat content, achieving a slightly higher AADF score.
The cups are perfect for tiny tummies and minimise food waste. Their Variety packs are perfect for picky pooches, allowing you to pinpoint your pup's preferences. You could always add something from their delightful array of dog treats, from biscuits and bites to bars and brilliant dental sticks.
Our Verdict - We think that Edgard & Cooper stands out as a brand committed to ethical and sustainable practices. Not only do they use high quality ingredients but they offer a wide range of dry recipes to suit even the pickiest of pups with a selection of wet foods to act as tasty toppers. |
Fancy trying Edgard & Cooper dog food ?
New customers can use discount code SMART20
for 20% OFF the entire range
To learn more about Edgard & Cooper's wet food range and their treat selection, take a look at our Edgard & Cooper in-depth Review
4. Best Raw Dog Food
Reasons to Buy :
+ Best for fussy dogs
+ Ideal for sensitive tummies
+ Great for dogs with allergies
+ Commitment to sustainability
+ Money-saving bundles
+ Next day delivery
Reasons to Avoid :
- If you have a lack of freezer space
Behind the Brand: Multi-award winning raw dog food business
Range: Forage, Original, Simple (DIY) & Taster Boxes
Variety: Forage 7 recipes, Original 19 recipes, Simply 4 recipes
Clarity of Label: Excellent - full list of ingredient %
Price: £ - £££ depending on range and delivery volumes
Buying Options :
Save £5 on your first order
Use the Voucher Code FREDDIESENTME
Next in our review is multi-award winning Naturaw, an ethical, high quality British raw dog food brand. Their Forage dog food range was recently awarded the UK's highest rated dog food on the independent advice site AADF - All About Dog Food.
We've included Naturaw not just for their exceptionally high quality raw dog food but their commitment to sustainability. And we're not the only ones to think so.
Naturaw have been awarded the first ever, highly prestigious King's Award for Enterprise for its excellence in sustainable development.
These days, dog food companies are under increased pressure to reduce not only their carbon footprint but their environmental impact across the entire supply chain.
Naturaw are trailblazers.
Compared to other raw dog food brands they are leading the way by embedding sustainability into their practices and operations.
From their 100% compostable packaging, planting trees every time someone subscribes to their food offer to generating their own solar power; sustainability is at the heart of their brand.
So let's take a closer look at their food -
Naturaw is nutritionally designed and balanced to provide your dog with all the protein, vitamins and minerals they require. It's worth noting that their ranges are free from fillers and grains.
You have a choice to either buy the food in a money-saving variety bundle (a Taster Box) or opt to choose recipes individually.
If you're thinking of dipping your toe in the water with raw dog food, a great place to start is their amazing 'New To Raw Feeding Box'.
This box has been specifically designed to help with the switch to raw dog food.
The ingredients for each recipe are clearly laid out so if you have a dog with allergies or a sensitive stomach you won't find any hidden ingredients.
Simply defrost them one at a time, incredibly easy to remember, just remove a new tray from the freezer as you finish one.
Their award winning Forage range is a nutritionally complete raw food consisting of the same high welfare British meat and complemented with 10% superfood ingredients.
The recently extended range is available in 7 recipes -including a Pure blend recipe which you can combine with their other foods.
Naturaw understands the importance of finding the perfect fit for your dog. That's why they offer a fantastic value Forage Trial Box. This allows you to explore the different recipes before committing to a larger order.
We Tested, We Loved!
We put a variety of Naturaw products to the test, including both their Original and Forage collections. We were thoroughly impressed, not only by the clean bowls left behind by our happy testers, but also by Naturaw's commitment to sustainability.
You definitely get more 'bang for your buck' with the Taster Boxes - not only do you get free delivery, the boxes offer a substantial saving over selecting the products individually and if you use our discount code you get a further £5 off.
Not to mention, if you set up a regular subscription you also get free treats.
It's definitely worth considering a subscription as Naturaw also offer :
FREE TREATS with every Taster box
5% OFF all other raw food
If you're interested in switching to Raw, checkout our article - Raw Dog Foods : Benefits & Risks
Our Verdict - Based on their high quality and award winning raw dog food, the option to save money with their Original Taster Boxes, the exceptional Forage range, free delivery and excellent customer service, Naturaw have a lot to offer dog lovers. |
Save £5 on your first order
Use the Voucher Code FREDDIESENTME
Considering Raw Dog Food? We've Got You Covered!
For a comprehensive look at raw dog food options, dive into our in-depth Raw Review! We put Naturaw, Paleo Ridge, ProDog Raw, and Wilsons to the test, analysing ingredients, nutrition, and canine satisfaction for 12 weeks.
Want to Know More About Naturaw Specifically?
We've also got a dedicated deep-dive review focused solely on Naturaw dog food. This review provides a detailed analysis to help you decide if it's the right choice for your furry friend.
5. Best Tailored Dry Food
Reasons to Buy :
+ Tailored to your dog
+ Best for convenience
+ Long shelf life
+ Flexible ordering
+ No fridge/freezer space required
Reasons to Avoid :
- Picky dogs tend to prefer wet foods
Behind the Brand: 250,000 happily fed dogs
Range: Customised dry kibble, wet food, treats, dental chews & poo bags
Variety: Tailored
Clarity of Label: OK - Generalised ingredient %
Price: ££
Buying Options :
For 75% 0FF your first box
enter Discount Code SMART75 at checkout
(new customers only)
Tailored dog food is an extremely popular choice for dog lovers particularly those looking to manage allergies or struggling with health issues.
What tails.com offers dog lovers, is the best of both worlds - the scoop & serve convenience of dry dog food coupled with a totally bespoke blend made for your dog.
As all dogs are different, ideally their diet needs to reflect their individual needs, so customised dog food is a great alternative to the one-size-fits-all dog foods available.
tails.com can offer this service at a great price.
We found the process of creating your dog's very own, unique, custom recipe is extremely straightforward.
Simply use their online quiz to tell them all about your dog and they'll do the rest, customising a personal diet made just for your pup.
From breed to age, lifestyle to health, your dog’s kibble will be unique based on the information you provide.
Opt for a hypoallergenic blend to help deal with food intolerances, remove common allergens for sensitive stomachs or even reduce the calories for ageing dogs to match their lifestyle.
We love that your tails.com custom recipe is totally flexible and adapts as your dog ages.
For instance, for puppies under 14 weeks, deliveries are every two weeks so that tails.com can keep up with their nutritional needs.
If you have an older dog, instead of being offered a choice between Adult or Senior dog food, tails.com amend their recipe as you update your dog's profile to reflect any changes in activity levels and weight.
Do you have a particularly picky dog ?
Their food can be tailored around their favourite flavours and if for any reason your dog doesn't like the recipe, tails.com will change the blend for free.
Ultimately, we felt that the monthly costs were very transparent as were the ingredients chosen for our tailored blend of kibble.
It's worth noting that it is super simple to pause, amend, delay or completely stop your deliveries.
So nothing like that dreaded gym membership !
Each order comes with a perfect portion scoop, to help ensure you are feeding your dog exactly the right amount of calories every day. From experience it's easy to find family members feeding different amounts.
tails.com are one of the best tailored dry dog foods on the UK market with over 30,000 positive reviews from happy dog lovers on Trustpilot.
Our Verdict - If you're looking for a unique blend of kibble for your dog, we would recommend taking a closer look and maybe trying their online quiz to get an accurate picture of the costs involved for your four-legged best friend. |
For 75% 0FF your first box
enter Discount Code SMART75 at checkout
(new customers only)
👀 🚘 Looking to protect your car boot from mud this winter ? Checkout our detailed review of the NEW Kong Ultimate Cargo Liner - it's the best we've tested for many reasons ! |
6. Best Air Dried Dog Food
Reasons to Buy :
+ Ideal for dogs with sensitive stomachs
+ Great if you have limited freezer space
+ Long shelf life
+ Customised for your dog
Reasons to Avoid :
- If you're looking for fresh dog food
Behind the Brand: Innovative air-dried food customised for your dog
Range: On-line tailored food and a capsule range in Pets at Home
Recipes: 7 recipes
Clarity of Label: Good - partial list of ingredient %
Price: £
Buying Options :
Smart Bark can offer 30% OFF your first box PLUS
10% OFF your next two boxes
We think that Pure offers a healthier alternative to kibble for those dog lovers who don’t necessarily want to switch their dog to pricier fresh, raw or home cooked food.
Pure is air dried dog food which is some seriously clever stuff.
The air drying process acts as a natural form of preservation meaning that no preservatives or harmful high temperatures are needed.
All the Pure recipes are minimally processed and each ingredient is finely chopped to ensure they're super digestible.
The food is then gently air-dried at a low temperature so the moisture is removed but the food retains it's all important nutrients. You simply add water, stir and serve!
It’s widely understood that wet dog food is generally more appetising, so if you have a picky pup, chances are Pure will be more appealing than kibble.
Pure's recipes rank at the top of their nutritional scale with an All About Dog Food rating of 80%.
Because it's completely customised to your dog, their food can take account of any underlying health issues and allergies.
So it's extremely popular with owners of dogs suffering from ailments, renal conditions and sensitive stomachs.
Pure offer an online subscription service, simply take the 3 minute quiz to get a personalised meal plan for your pooch.
Pure certainly ticks a lot of boxes for us including easy storage, doorstep deliveries and most importantly the option to tailor the food to meet your dog's nutritional requirements.
Pure cuts out the middleman by selling directly to consumers, making it a cost-effective alternative to pricier fresh dog food options like Marleybones and Butternut Box. This positions Pure as an excellent value for pet owners looking for high-quality, fresh food without the premium price tag.
Our Verdict - If your dog suffers from skin issues, allergies renal or digestive problems, we would recommend taking a closer look at Pure dog food as a great option for food-sensitive fur babies. |
Click for 30% OFF your first box
PLUS 10% OFF your next two
If you'd like more information, why not read our full Pure Pet Food review
7. Best Fresh Dog Food
Reasons to Buy :
+ Very high nutritional rating
+ No fridge or freezer storage concerns
+ Additional superfood supplement
+ Tailored to breed and life-stage
+ Trial box available
Reasons to Avoid :
- Only 5 recipes
Behind the Brand: UK fresh dog food brand
Range: Ex Luxury Yacht Head Chef & Veterinary Clinical Nutrition Specialist designed dog food
Variety: 5 recipes plus a range designed specifically for puppies
Clarity of Label: Excellent - full list of ingredient % via a QR Code scan
Price: ££
Buying Options :
You can try Years.com from just £3
for a 7 day transition trial
PLUS enter discount code SMARTBARK for free delivery on any order
Fresh dog food appeals to busy dog lovers who want high quality dog food coupled with stress-free home delivery.
Years.com are a new fresh brand and definitely a part of the dog food revolution.
Of course, the first thing to say about Years.com is that they have achieved an exceptionally high nutritional rating of 96% on the independent dog food rating site - 'All About Dog Food'.
It doesn't stop there. Years.com don't simply use human-grade meats but insist on using human cuts of meat such as chicken thigh, salmon fillet and matured steak.
Certainly sounds more appetising than meat meals or animal derivatives you find in some dog foods!
Offering an online subscription service, you simply take a short quiz then Years.com use all that information to offer meals customised to your dog taking into account your dog's breed, ailments, allergies, activity levels and your dog's life stage.
They currently offer a range of 5 recipes all including a high variety of ingredients and it's worth noting that all their recipes are grain and legume free, which is ideal for dogs suffering from intolerances.
However, the biggest difference between Years.com and their fresh food rivals (for me) is storage.
Whereas their rivals require freezing and refrigeration which can lead to storage issue for dog lovers, Years.com can be stored in your cupboard.
It's all down to the way their food is cooked NOT the addition of preservatives. Uniquely designed trays with steam vessels, reduce the cooking time and temperature required, so the food is minimally processed. It only needs to be popped in the fridge once opened.
We were certainly impressed by the look and aroma of their fresh dog food.
You can easily identify key ingredients within the dish and to be honest each meal looks fit to serve up for my family as well as my dog.
Oh, we nearly forgot to mention the Superfood Supplement to accompany your dog's meals.
Tailored to your dog's breed and designed to address common ailments, their Superfood Supplement also contains a unique blend of probiotics and prebiotics to support healthy gut flora.
Lastly, we thought we'd mention that Years.com have recently launched a collection of natural dog treats. These treats prioritise functionality, focusing on benefits like improved dental health, gut health, cognitive function, and joint health.
Years' natural treats perfectly complement their nutritious food, offering a holistic approach to canine wellness. Now you can get everything your dog needs – complete and delicious nutrition – in one convenient order.
Our Verdict - Ok, so fresh dog food is not the cheapest option available to you, however if you're looking for a top quality, highly nutritious fresh dog food, personalised to suit your dog and delivered to your door, then we'd suggest taking a closer look at Years.com. |
Enter discount code SMARTBARK for free delivery on any order
If you would like to know more about Years.com, why not read our deep dive Years,com Dog Food Review : A Complete Nutrition System
On the other hand, if you'd like to know more about other UK fresh dog food brands, check out our article comparing some other fantastic options - Different Dog, Pets Love Fresh, Tuggs, Butternut Box & of course Years - Best Fresh Dog Food Review
8. Best Wet Dog Food
Reasons to Buy :
+ Convenience
+ Long shelf life
+ Extensive range
+ Cheaper than fresh food
Reasons to Avoid :
- Pricier than most dried options
Behind the Brand: 50 years worth of expertise in Pet Nutrition
Range: Adult, Senior, Puppy, newly extended Small Dog range
Variety: 18 grain free recipes & 9 wholegrain recipes & variety packs
Clarity of Label: Excellent - full list of ingredient %
Price: ££
Buying Options :
For 15% OFF
enter our discount code SMARTBARK15 at checkout
Hailed as the "Best Wet Food of 2025" by Your Dog Magazine readers and "Wet Dog Food of the Year" in the Retailer Recommended Awards 2024, Forthglade isn't messing around!
They offer two comprehensive wet food ranges – Grain Free and Wholegrain – ensuring you can find the perfect, nutritious meal for your dog.
The first thing to say is that all their recipes regardless of whether they are grain free or wholegrain, are formulated to include 75% single source proteins like salmon, lamb, duck, beef or turkey.
It's worth mentioning that this is an exceptionally high meat content.
Their wholegrain range is formulated with brown rice or oats which are great sources of fibre and highly digestible. Crucially, both ranges have a very high average nutritional rating of 85% on the All About Dog Food website.
Whilst the adult range is broader, Forthglade also offer lifestage recipes aimed at both puppy and senior dog.
Both puppies and senior dogs have specific nutritional requirements so Forthglade's ranges are designed to be nutritionally balanced for each particular lifestage.
So regardless of whether you're looking for the best start in life or for your dog to stay fitter for longer, Forthglade have a range designed for your four-legged friend.
The senior range is aimed at dogs over 7yrs and is lower in calories, contains 15% less fat than the adult recipe range and is packed with chondroitin and glucosamine and salmon oil for joints and bones.
Big love for little tummies!
And let's not forget smaller dogs which are often overlooked but have unique nutritional requirements and deserve a diet that matches their special needs.
Forthglade have created a range specifically designed to provide the perfect nourishment for small dogs. Packed with 75% high-quality protein and wholesome, natural ingredients, these grain-free recipes are free from unnecessary fillers.
Designed with convenience in mind, the new range comes in portable 150g trays, perfect for on-the-go feeding.
In testing, our testers preferred the trays to traditional canned dog food as they felt it was simpler to portion the food accurately.They also commented that they liked the paste-like consistency and the aroma was more appealing.
Simply pop in the fridge after opening and use within 48 hours. For the fussiest of our four-legged friends, serving this wet food at room temperature can work wonders. It's a tempting treat that even the pickiest pup will find irresistible!
What's more, Forthglade offer a range of Gourmet meals in partnership with the National Trust. They include 75% good quality meats like turkey, goose, beef, wild boar, duck & venison.
These more exotic proteins are ideal for dogs with food allergies to the more traditional proteins such as chicken and beef.
It also means that you have an extensive range of Forthglade recipes to choose from, which will certainly benefit dog lovers with 'Goldilocks level' picky pups.
The only minor drawback we encountered was the occasional broken seal on the trays, which could result in mold growth. We recommend inspecting the trays before storing them as a precaution."
Our Verdict - We recommend both the grain free and wholegrain Forthglade wet foods because customers clearly love them, they offer an extensive recipe selection ( including small dogs, seniors and puppies) and better still, their wet food makes a great value topper, making any kibble more palatable for picky pups. |
Additionally you can go on-line to see their full range and set up a money saving subscription for regular deliveries. |
For 15% OFF
enter our discount code SMARTBARK15 at checkout
9. Best Insect Dog Food
Reasons to Buy :
+ Perfect eco-friendly option
+ Ideal for dogs with meat allergies
+ Great for convenience
+ Long shelf life
+ No subscription necessary
Reasons to Avoid :
- Currently limited range
Behind the Brand: A low carbon paw-print, next-generation, high protein, hypoallergenic dog food
Range: Dried food, range of dog treats, poo bags & dental sticks
Varieties: All Day Buffet
Clarity of Label: Good - partial list of ingredient %
Price: ££
Buying Options :
Insect-based dog foods are going mainstream and there are several UK companies offering this eco-friendly alternative.
If you're looking to reduce your carbon paw-print then we'd recommend taking a closer look at Grub Club.
Grub Club is a next-generation high-quality dog food which is ethically farmed and formulated from insect proteins.
A mind- blowing fact is that our pet cats and dogs consume an earth-shattering 20% of the world’s meat and fish!
The insects used in Grub Clubs dog food generate 97% less greenhouse gasses than meat.
Insect-based dog food offers your dog a great source of protein. In fact, insect dog food contains more protein than chicken or beef and it's easier for your dog to digest.
Grub Club work with the world leading black soldier fly farms in the UK and the Netherlands, promoting a circular economy and ensuring the highest welfare standards possible.
Created with animal nutritionists and approved by the British Veterinary Association, Grub Club dog food is complete and balanced.
In addition to insect protein, Grub Club includes more traditional superfood ingredients - blueberries, pomegranates, sweet potato, spinach, apples, sunflower oil and yucca.
Grub Club hasn't been rated by All About Dog Food yet, but we'll keep you posted.
Price-wise, Grub Club is on a par with other premium dried kibble.
In testing, we found that the kibble looked exactly like other dried foods we've tested but without that meaty smell. Freddie can be quite fussy when it comes to dried dog food, but he happily ate the kibble.
Available in 1.5kg, 6kg and 12kg bags, clearly the larger bags work out the best value and there's free delivery on orders over £39.
Also it's worth mentioning that further savings can be made by choosing a Subscribe & Save delivery.
Grub Club currently offer two great Introductory Bundles with £15 OFF each:-
⭐️ 6kg of All Day Buffet dog food, a selection of dog treats & dental sticks for
⭐️ 1.5kg of All Day Buffet food, a selection of treats & dental sticks
Grub Club offer a range of 3 different dog treats. All healthy, hypoallergenic and sustainable so you can work on those training goals whilst looking after the planet.
Looking to keep those gnashers pearly white ? Grub Club's range includes dental sticks which feature in our popular article Best Dental Chews
Our Verdict - We recommend Grub Club for eco-friendly dog lovers looking for healthy, hypoallergenic, planet saving food. |
For more information about Grub Club, check out our full review - Bugs for Brunch? Why Your Dog Might Love Grub Club Dog Food
Not convinced about Grub Club ? For more information about other insect-based dog foods, why not read our in-depth review of the Best Insect Dog Foods in the UK - Grub Club, Yora, Percuro, Tuggs & Wainwrights.
We thought you might be interested .....
If you're looking at a dry dog food, we love this Food Scoop and Bag Clip from designer brand - MaxBone.
The beautifully designed 2-in-1 scoop and clip will not only ensure the dog food stays fresh by helping to seal the bag, but the collapsible measuring scoop helps you accurately control your dog's food portion to avoid overfeeding.
The scoop holds 1/2 a cup of food. Better still it collapses to save space plus it’s dishwasher safe.
How to Buy The Best Food For Your Dog
The most important thing to consider is your dog's eating habits. Do they have allergies ? Are they a picky eater ? How much do they eat ?
The second thing you need to decide is what type of food would YOU prefer to serve ? When you know this, it becomes easier to decide which brand will fit best.
The nutritional value, the size of your pocket and your home storage will also play a part in ultimately determining which food will suit your dog and you best.
Bear in mind all these answers as you look through our recommended dog food brands.
We've done all the groundwork for you. We've tested and reviewed their products with the help of a whole variety of dogs from easy-to-please Labradors to fussy & downright difficult Cockapoos and their patient, dog loving owners.
We've researched their nutritional content and health claims whilst curating a shortlist. It's worth noting, as non-scientists, we've used the ratings from All About Dog Food for our nutritional comparisons. We've also given a rating on the clarity of the label, so you can identify ingredient percentages.
We evaluate some more traditional dog food companies and compare them to a host of online brands powered by digital technology to deliver their innovative and often customised dog food directly to your door.
With money saving subscriptions, excellent customer service, intuitive websites and great offers exclusive to Smart Bark - what's not to love ?
Only the best of the best made it to our list.
If you've just welcomed a new addition to your family, why not read our Best Puppy Food review
How We Choose
We decided to start off our hunt for the best dog food by analysing top-selling brands and exploring a whole range of companies that we felt were revolutionising the face of dog food in the UK.
Our criteria for including brands was based on -
💛 High nutritional value
💛 Extensive range
💛 Offer to customers
💛 Home delivery
💛 Customisation options
💛 Price
Over the years Smart Bark had already fully tested, analysed and reviewed raw, fresh and tailored dog foods in addition to having extensive experience of dried, insect and wet dog foods.
We decided that with such a broad range of foods on offer to customers, we would pick the top food in each category - wet, dried, fresh, air dried and raw. We also felt that Insect Protein dog food with it's planet saving credentials deserved a place in our review.
From our shortlist, we made sure we (and our team of Canine Testers) had tested all the brands featured to check all claims and add some 'real world' feedback.
Almost all our products are sent to us by the companies involved and almost always as a result of our request. We only review the products we think are worth reviewing.
Thank you for reading our article and we hope you've found a dog food to suit your dog and you in our round up of the Best Dog Foods in the UK for 2025.
