Does staring down the endless aisles of dog food at PetSmart feel like navigating a jungle? You want the absolute best for your furry best friend, but the sheer volume of bags, cans, and brands can quickly turn excitement into overwhelming confusion. Every bag promises peak nutrition, but how do you know which one truly fits your dog’s needs?
Choosing the right food is one of the biggest decisions a pet owner makes. You worry about ingredients, budget, and whether that grain-free option is actually better. PetSmart offers a fantastic variety, but that variety creates the main pain point: analysis paralysis. You just want clear, actionable advice to stop guessing and start feeding confidently.
This guide cuts through the marketing noise. We will break down the essential things to look for on those labels, compare popular PetSmart brands, and give you a simple checklist to match food to your dog’s age and energy level. Keep reading, and you will walk out of the store next time knowing exactly which bag belongs in your cart.
Top Dog Food At Petsmart Recommendations
- FRESH DOG FOOD MADE EASY: No freezing, no refrigeration, no thawing. Our shelf-stable, limited-ingredient dog food toppers and meals are served fresh from the pouch. Microwave-safe packaging lets you easily warm it for particularly picky dogs.
- NO HIDDEN INGREDIENTS: We’re all about transparency and promise 11 or fewer ingredients in each pouch! Each whole food recipe is precisely detailed on the dog food topper packaging. We partner with farmers to provide the highest quality ingredients,100% sourced and made in the USA.
- EXCEPTIONAL FLAVOR: We believe in simple, real nutrition that your dog will adore. Each multipack includes 5 fresh dog food pouches: Wally’s Salmon N’ Rice, Rosie’s Beef N’ Rice, Tuxedo’s Chicken & Yams, Grandma Ada’s Turkey & Yams, and Hopkin's Pork N’ Potato.
- FUNCTIONAL BENEFITS: Our whole food nutritional blends are suitable for small, medium, and large dogs, from puppies to seniors. Our soft dog food toppers are easily digestible and nutrient dense for picky eaters. Add a fresh food boost to their bowl!
- FLEXIBLE WAYS TO SERVE: Use it your way! Works as a meal, combined with dry food as a mixer, or as a wet dog food topper for those with a more selective palate. Incorporate fresh, human grade nutrition into your dog’s diet on your terms.
- Provides balanced minerals that support heart, kidney and bladder health
- Made with a powerful blend of antioxidants to reinforce their immune system
- Complete and balanced nutrition to help keep your dog at its ideal weight
- Made in the USA with global ingredients you can trust
- #1 Veterinarian Recommended
- LIMITED INGREDIENT DOG FOOD: Natural, grain free, limited ingredient recipe crafted with a single source of animal protein, expertly balanced with easily digestible carbohydrates and no fillers
- A LIFETIME OF WELLBEING: Natural prebiotics support a healthy digestive system, antioxidants support a strong immune system and Omega fatty Acids support a healthy coat and skin
- WHOLE BODY HEALTH: Supported by omega fatty acids, antioxidants, glucosamine, probiotics and taurine for a healthy heart
- FIND THE RIGHT FOOD: Wellness offers a full range of foods to support your dog's specific needs, including grained and grain free options, high protein recipes and limited ingredient diets for dogs with food sensitivities
- Made in the USA using only the finest globally sourced ingredients, we prepare each of our diets in our own state of the art facility; we craft delicious natural recipes with wholesome, non GMO ingredients chosen for their nutritional benefits
- Holistic Nutrition in Every Bite: Each delectable mouthful blends essential nutrients, vitamins, and minerals crucial for your dog's health. From strong muscles to a lustrous coat, this complete meal ensures comprehensive nourishment.
- Chicken Perfection: Our wet dog food features real premium chicken as the first ingredient, offering a high-quality protein source that supports Beef Goodness: Our wet dog food features premium beef as the first ingredient, offering a high-quality protein source that supports muscle development, energy levels, and overall vitality.
- Wholesome Vegetable Medley: Our recipe includes a medley of vegetables that add flavor and nutritional value, providing a balanced and satisfying meal.
- Gentle on Sensitive Tummies: Crafted with easily digestible ingredients, our formula is suitable even for dogs with sensitive stomachs.
- Made in the USA: with the finest globally sourced ingredients
- CHICKEN IS THE SINGLE ANIMAL PROTEIN SOURCE providing essential protein and amino acids to help maintain strong muscles; Sweet potatoes are included as a grain-free source of fiber to help support digestive health; Contains (1) 12-Pound Bag
- WITH SENSITIVE PETS IN MIND we’ve carefully chosen a simplified list of premium ingredients to help support a healthy coat, skin & digestive system; made with a single animal protein source, and no added grain, soy, gluten, or artificial colors or flavors
- SPECIALLY FORMULATED FOR SMALL DOGS Made with the same balanced nutritional philosophy, our Small Breed recipes are tailored to your dog. Every bite is packed with flavor! Smaller size accommodates smaller jaw sizes for easier eating
- NUTRITION FOR EVERY TYPE OF DOG Any dog can enjoy our delicious recipes, not just dogs with sensitive stomachs, irritable skin or allergies; Our purposefully crafted formulas reduce the number of ingredients without sacrificing taste or nutrition
- SAFETY & TRANSPARENCY Natural Balance's 'Feed with Confidence' program tests every batch of food from start to finish, ensuring safety with every bite; Validate bag on our site or call our Customer Care Team of Registered Veterinary Technicians
- Nutrient-dense, bite-sized kibble for dogs who prefer eating smaller pieces
- High protein formula, with real lamb as the first ingredient
- Fortified with guaranteed live probiotics to support digestive and immune health
- Used to be known as FOCUS Small Bites Lamb and Rice Formula
- 27 percent Protein and 17 percent Fat help fuel metabolic needs and help maintain lean muscle
- Provides balanced minerals that support heart, kidney and bladder health
- Made with a powerful blend of antioxidants to reinforce their immune system
- Complete and balanced nutrition to help keep your dog at its ideal weight
- Made in the USA with global ingredients you can trust
- #1 Veterinarian Recommended
- DUCK IS THE SINGLE ANIMAL PROTEIN SOURCE providing essential protein and amino acids to help maintain strong muscles; Potatoes are included as a grain-free source of fiber to help support digestive health; Contains (1) 12-Pound Bag
- WITH SENSITIVE PETS IN MIND we’ve carefully chosen a simplified list of premium ingredients to help support a healthy coat, skin & digestive system; made with a single animal protein source, and no added grain, soy, gluten, or artificial colors or flavors
- SPECIALLY FORMULATED FOR SMALL DOGS Made with the same balanced nutritional philosophy, our Small Breed recipes are tailored to your dog. Every bite is packed with flavor! Smaller size accommodates smaller jaw sizes for easier eating
- NUTRITION FOR EVERY TYPE OF DOG Any dog can enjoy our delicious recipes, not just dogs with sensitive stomachs, irritable skin or allergies; Our purposefully crafted formulas reduce the number of ingredients without sacrificing taste or nutrition
- SAFETY & TRANSPARENCY Natural Balance's 'Feed with Confidence' program tests every batch of food from start to finish, ensuring safety with every bite; Validate bag on our site or call our Customer Care Team of Registered Veterinary Technicians
Finding the Best Dog Food at PetSmart: Your Complete Buying Guide
PetSmart offers a huge selection of dog food. Choosing the right one can feel overwhelming. This guide helps you sort through the options to find the best fit for your furry friend.
Key Features to Look For
1. Life Stage Appropriateness
Dogs need different nutrition at different times in their lives. Puppies grow fast and need more calories and protein. Adult dogs need balanced meals for maintenance. Senior dogs often need fewer calories and joint support.
- Puppy Formulas: High in protein and fat for energy.
- Adult Formulas: Balanced for daily activity.
- Senior Formulas: Often lower in calories and may include glucosamine.
2. Guaranteed Analysis (The Nutrition Label)
Always check the guaranteed analysis on the bag. This tells you the minimum percentages of protein and fat, and the maximum percentages of fiber and moisture.
- Protein: Look for at least 18% for adults, higher for puppies.
- Fat: Provides energy. Usually between 5% and 15%.
Important Ingredients and Materials
1. Real Meat is Key
The first ingredient listed should be a named meat source. This means you see “Chicken,” “Beef,” or “Salmon,” not just “Meat By-Products.” Real meat provides essential amino acids dogs need to build muscle.
2. Whole Grains and Vegetables
Good dog foods include healthy carbohydrates like brown rice, sweet potatoes, or oats. These provide sustained energy and fiber. Vegetables like carrots and peas add vitamins and minerals.
3. Beneficial Additives
Look for added ingredients that support health:
- Omega Fatty Acids (Fish Oil): Great for shiny coats and healthy skin.
- Probiotics: Help keep your dog’s digestive system running smoothly.
Factors That Improve or Reduce Quality
Quality Boosters
Foods that list specific, named meats as the first few ingredients are generally higher quality. Brands that invest in scientific research and quality control often provide more consistent nutrition. Specialty diets, like those for sensitive stomachs or weight management, are formulated with specific needs in mind.
Quality Reducers (Things to Avoid)
Some ingredients lower the overall quality. Avoid foods where the first few ingredients are fillers or low-quality substitutes.
- Artificial Colors and Flavors: Dogs do not need these to eat their food.
- Unspecified By-Products: “Meat by-product” can mean low-quality parts of an animal.
- Excessive Corn or Wheat Fillers: While not inherently bad, if these dominate the list, the food might lack enough quality protein.
User Experience and Use Cases
How a dog eats the food tells you a lot. If your dog eagerly eats the food and maintains a healthy weight, you likely found a winner. Good food leads to small, firm stools, which shows your dog is absorbing the nutrients well.
When to Choose Specific Types:
- For Picky Eaters: Canned (wet) food or freeze-dried toppers from PetSmart often increase palatability.
- For Active Dogs: High-calorie kibble or performance formulas provide necessary fuel.
- For Budget-Conscious Buyers: PetSmart carries store brands or value lines that still meet AAFCO standards, offering good value.
10 Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) About Dog Food at PetSmart
Q: What is the best overall dog food brand sold at PetSmart?
A: Many owners prefer brands like Wellness, Blue Buffalo, or Taste of the Wild because they focus on whole ingredients. However, the “best” food depends entirely on your individual dog’s needs.
Q: How often should I switch my dog’s food?
A: You should only switch foods slowly, over about seven to ten days, mixing the old food with the new. Frequent switching can upset your dog’s stomach.
Q: Do grain-free foods sold at PetSmart cause heart problems?
A: Some grain-free diets have been linked to Dilated Cardiomyopathy (DCM). If you are considering grain-free, talk to your vet first and look for formulas that do not rely heavily on peas or lentils as the primary ingredient.
Q: Can I feed my large breed puppy adult food?
A: No. Large breed puppies need special formulas to control their growth rate, preventing them from growing too fast, which can harm their joints.
Q: What is the difference between dry and wet food at PetSmart?
A: Dry kibble is convenient and helps clean teeth slightly. Wet food has higher moisture content, which is good for hydration, but it costs more per serving.
Q: How do I read the “Best By” date on the bag?
A: The “Best By” date ensures peak freshness. Once opened, most kibble should be used within 4 to 6 weeks, even if the bag date is later. Store it in a cool, dry place.
Q: Does PetSmart offer prescription dog food?
A: Yes. PetSmart partners with online pharmacies and often carries veterinary therapeutic diets, but you usually need a prescription from your veterinarian to purchase these specialized foods.
Q: What are “AAFCO statements” and why do they matter?
A: The AAFCO statement confirms the food meets the minimum nutritional levels set by the Association of American Feed Control Officials. Look for a statement saying the food is “complete and balanced” for a specific life stage.
Q: My dog seems itchy. Should I switch to a limited ingredient diet?
A: Itching can be environmental or food-related. Limited Ingredient Diets (LID) found at PetSmart remove common allergens like chicken or beef. Start by discussing the itchiness with your vet before making a major food change.
Q: Can I mix wet and dry food together?
A: Yes, mixing is a great way to increase palatability and moisture without committing to a full can of wet food. Just make sure the total daily calorie intake remains correct.