- The Best Salmon Dog Food
- 1. Blue Buffalo Wilderness Natures Evolutionary Diet with Salmon
- 2. Taste of the Wild Pacific Stream Canine Recipe
- 3. Purina ONE True Instinct with Real Salmon & Tuna
- 4. CANIDAE Grain-Free PURE Limited Ingredient Salmon
- 5. Merrick Grain Free Real Salmon & Sweet Potato Recipe
- 6. CRAVE White Fish & Salmon Premium Adult Dog Food
- 7. NUTRO Limited Ingredient Diet Salmon & Lentils Recipe
- 8. Instinct Original Recipe with Real Salmon
- 9. Wellness CORE Ocean Dog Food
- 10. Wellness Simple Salmon & Potato Formula
- 11. Blue Buffalo Wilderness Large Breed Dog Food with Salmon
- 12. VICTOR Select Grain Free Yukon River Canine
- 13. Holistic Select Anchovy, Sardine & Salmon Meals Recipe
- 14. Supreme Source Salmon Meal & Sweet Potato Recipe
- 15. AvoDerm Salmon & Vegetables Recipe
Sometimes it seems that there is an endless choice of dog foods with a bewildering range of ingredients. That can leave pet owners feeling a little overwhelmed. The bottom line is that a dog needs plenty of protein (mainly animal protein) in their diet and they can get that from meat or fish. The problem with some meat proteins is that dogs can be allergic to them. This is most often the case with chicken and beef. To overcome this problem, some owners like to choose the best salmon dog food for their pooch.
In the best salmon dog foods, the first ingredient is either farmed or wild caught salmon. However, they may also contain other fish. Salmon is a highly nutritious food and is packed with essential fatty acids as well as vitamins and minerals. It is easy to see why it is a popular choice for dog food. You could also get the benefit of salmon by adding salmon oil to your dog's diet as a supplement.
If you are thinking of trying out a new dog food, here is our guide to the best salmon dog food on the market right now.
The Best Salmon Dog Food
1. Blue Buffalo Wilderness Natures Evolutionary Diet with Salmon
Key Features
Calorie content 3592 kcal/kg
Crude protein 34 % minimum
Crude fat 15 % minimum
Crude fiber 6% maximum
Maximum moisture 10 % maximum
With phosphorus, Omega 3 Fatty Acids and Glucosamine
First three ingredients: Deboned salmon, chicken meal and peas
Designed by expert animal nutritionists, Blue Buffalo Wilderness dry food for dogs provides plenty of protein and is based on the natural diet that wild dogs would have eaten years ago. The recipe stands out for what it does not contain as well as for the impressive list of ingredients. You won’t find any gluten-containing grains (corn, wheat or soy), any poultry by-products meals or any artificial flavors or preservatives in this food.
Perfect for active adult dogs, it contains more than 30 percent protein and high quality salmon is the first ingredient. Added to this are anti-oxidant rich blueberries and cranberries and healthy carbohydrates provided by peas, potatoes and sweet potatoes.
Pros
Suitable for dogs with wheat allergies
Real salmon is the first ingredient
Omega 3 & 6 fatty acids to support skin and coat health
Healthy carbohydrates
Cons
Does contain chicken meal
Strong fish smell
2. Taste of the Wild Pacific Stream Canine Recipe
Key Features
Calorie content 3600 kcal/kg
Crude protein 25 % minimum
Crude fat 15 % minimum
Crude fiber 3% maximum
Maximum moisture 10 % maximum
With zinc, selenium and vitamin E
First three ingredients: salmon, ocean fish meal, sweet potatoes
Taste of the Wild dry dog food with smoked salmon is available as an Ancient Grains, Grain-free adult or Grain-free puppy formulation making is useful for many dog owners. The grain free recipe does not contain eggs or egg products or any chicken meat, fat or meal making it good for your dog’s health if they suffer from these food allergies.
The Taste of the Wild recipe uses sustainably sourced salmon as an alternative to a meat protein source and includes a proprietary strain of probiotics to maintain gut health. The added dried chicory root is a useful source of prebiotic fiber and helps the friendly gut bacteria to thrive. The range of antioxidants in this Taste of the Wild recipe also stands out and includes sweet potatoes, blueberries and raspberries.
Pros
Perbiotic fiber and probiotic colonies for intestinal health
Antioxidants for cell protection
Omega oils for coat health
Recipe contains no chicken
Cons
Contains canola oil which some owners have concerns about
Can give dogs ‘fishy’ breath
3. Purina ONE True Instinct with Real Salmon & Tuna
Key Features
Calorie content 3,761 kcal/kg
Crude protein 30 % minimum
Crude fat 17 % minimum
Crude fiber 3% maximum
Maximum moisture 12 % maximum
With vitamin E, niacin and vitamin A
First three ingredients: salmon, chicken meal, soy flour
Great for building strong muscles and a healthy heart, this salmon dry dog food contains plenty of protein as well as a range of other nutrients. Purina ONE SmartBlend True Instinct Natural Adult Dry Dog Food is tender meaty morsels that support your dog’s immune system as well as helping them maintain a healthy coat and providing plenty of energy.
The first ingredient is natural salmon and this dog food is made right here is the US. Further goodness is added by another fish ingredient – tuna. However, there are no poultry by-product meals or artificial flavors or preservatives in this dog food formula.
Pros
Salmon recipe in tender morsels
High protein content
No poultry by-product meal
Added vitamins and minerals
Cons
Different color morsels so dogs can selectively feed
Softer chunks may not remove plaque
4. CANIDAE Grain-Free PURE Limited Ingredient Salmon
Key Features
Calorie content 3800 kcal/kg
Crude protein 32 % minimum
Crude fat 18 % minimum
Crude fiber 4% maximum
Maximum moisture 10 % maximum
With iron proteinate, vitamin E supplement and dried lactobacillus plantarum fermentation product
First three ingredients: salmon, salmon meal, menhaden fish meal
There are just eight ingredients in this salmon dog food making it even more useful for dogs with food sensitivities and allergies than grain free recipes. The three first ingredients provide the animal protein; these are salmon, salmon meal and menhaden fish meal. Both salmon meal and menhaden fish meal provide highly concentrated sources of animal protein.
The carbohydrates Canidae PURE Grain Free, Limited Ingredient Dry Dog Food are provided by grain-free sweet potatoes and peas which are gentle on your dog’s digestion. Added to the basic ingredients of the dog food formula are chelated minerals to make sure that full nutritional support is provided for your dog. Because there are so few ingredients and no additives, fillers or by-products in the recipe of this high quality dog food, you can avoid a lot of the issues associated with some of the cheaper dog food brands. CANIDAE Grain-Free PURE Limited Ingredient Salmon is one of 5 dog food recipes included in our Canidae Dog Food Review.
Pros
Only eight ingredients which helps with allergy management
Packed with vitamins and minerals
Includes menhaden fish meal for concentrated protein
Probiotics for healthy digestion
Cons
Kibble is a small size and can powder
5. Merrick Grain Free Real Salmon & Sweet Potato Recipe
Key Features
Calorie content 3597 kcal ME/kg
Crude protein 32 % minimum
Crude fat 14 % minimum
Crude fiber 4.5% maximum
Maximum moisture 11 % maximum
With probiotics, chondroitin and glucosamine
First three ingredients: Deboned salmon, salmon meal, white fish meal
Packed with two super healthy foods (real salmon and sweet potato), the Merrick Grain Free with Real Meat + Sweet Potato Dry Dog Food provides plenty of omega 3 fatty acids and omega 6 fatty acids. This dry protein rich food is made with fresh salmon as well as salmon meal and white fish meal for strong and healthy muscle development.
The healthy sources of carbohydrate (sweet potatoes and potatoes) provide plenty of energy for an active lifestyle. This salmon based food is suitable for adult dogs of all breeds and has chondroitin and glucosamine supplementation to keep joints healthy.
Pros
Packed with omega 3 fatty acids for healthy skin and coat
Grain free recipe
Delicious sweet potato recipe
Made with real salmon
Cons
Not all bags have zipped locks
Can have a fishy smell
6. CRAVE White Fish & Salmon Premium Adult Dog Food
Key Features
Calorie content 3717 kcal/kg
Crude protein 34 % minimum
Crude fat 14 % minimum
Crude fiber 4.5% maximum
Maximum moisture 11 % maximum
With probiotics, chondroitin and glucosamine
First three ingredients: Deboned salmon, salmon meal, white fish meal
CRAVE Grain Free High Protein Adult Dry Dog Food, White Fish & Salmon is a grain free salmon dog food made with real white fish and chicken and salmon meal for concentrated protein. Because the recipe is rich in animal protein, it supports lean and healthy muscle development and is closely aligned to a wolf’s diet.
There is no corn, wheat or soy to worry about and no chicken by-product meal which can cause allergies.
Pros
High quality protein
Made with real fish and chicken meat meal
Free of corn, wheat and soy
Added vitamins and minerals
Cons
Contains chicken which some dogs are allergic to
7. NUTRO Limited Ingredient Diet Salmon & Lentils Recipe
Key Features
Calorie content3702 kcal/kg
Crude protein 20% minimum
Crude fat 14 % minimum
Crude fiber 3.5% maximum
Maximum moisture 10% maximum
With Zinc Sulfate, Niacin Supplement, Biotin
First three ingredients: Salmon, salmon meal, dried potatoes
Nutro are one of the salmon dog food brands that support ‘feed clean’ philosophy. This salmon dog food is made with high quality ingredients produced by trusted suppliers and farmers. There are no artificial flavors, colors or preservatives.
The limited ingredients list of less than 10 foods makes it one of the best salmon dog foods for pets with food allergies and intolerances. The protein is provided by salmon and salmon meal (fish meals are a concentrated source of protein) but there is also potato protein from dried potatoes. The vitamin and mineral supplements make sure that your dog gets all the nutrients that they need to stay healthy. This salmon dog food is suitable for adult dogs over one year old and is particularly useful for nourishing sensitive skin. If you want to find out more about their company, product lines, and recall history, read our review of Nutro Dog Food.
Pros
Limited ingredients for dogs with allergies
No artificial flavors, colors or preservatives
Beet pulp for digestive health
Added vitamins and minerals
Cons
Some owners do not like to feed their dogs canola oil
Lower protein than some other salmon dog food brands
8. Instinct Original Recipe with Real Salmon
Key Features
Calorie content 4,450 kcal/kg
Crude protein 37.5% minimum
Crude fat 20 % minimum
Crude fiber 3.5% maximum
Maximum moisture 10% maximum
With herring meal, Dried Bacillus Coagulans Fermentation Product and folic acid
First three ingredients: Salmon, White Fish Meal (Pacific Whiting, Pacific Sole, Pacific Rockfish), Peas
Made with wild caught salmon, Instinct Grain Free Dry Dog Food, Original Raw Coated Natural High Protein Dog Food offers high quality nutrition for active dogs. The animal ingredients and oils add up to an impressive 72% of the recipe with the remainder being made up of wholesome ingredients such as vegetables and fruits. The minimal processing ensures that as much nutritional goodness as possible is maintained.
As well as salmon, the recipe contains white fish meal, Menhaden fish meal and freeze-dried raw cod to provide plenty of essential amino acids to build strong muscle. The live natural probiotics support digestive health as part of a healthy diet. The carrots, apple and cranberries provide antioxidants to maintain a healthy immune system.
Pros
Made with wild caught salmon
Suitable for all life stages
No grains, corn, wheat or soy
High proportion of animal protein
Cons
Some owners do not like to feed their dogs canola oil
9. Wellness CORE Ocean Dog Food
Key Features
Calorie content 3,568 kcal/kg
Crude protein 34% minimum
Crude fat 15 % minimum
Crude fiber 7% maximum
Maximum moisture 10% maximum
With Dried Lactobacillus casei Fermentation Product, Chicory Root Extract and Manganese Sulfate
First three ingredients: Whitefish, Herring Meal (source of Glucosamine), Salmon Meal (source of Chondroitin Sulfate)
If you want to provide your dog with a protein-rich diet but without having meat in the recipe, Wellness CORE 88414 Core Natural Grain-Free Dry Dog Food, Ocean Whitefish is a great option. This grain free recipe is packed with protein provided by all fish sources – namely white fish, herring meal and salmon meal.
Overall, 47 % of the recipe is made up of high quality proteins to promote a leaner body mass and muscle tone. The omega fatty acids of the salmon formula promote healthy skin and coat and there are no cheap fillers or artificial flavors or preservatives. There are antioxidants to help protect against disease and glucosamine and chondroitin in the fish meals protects joints. Probiotics support intestinal health and may help with sensitive stomachs.
Pros
Plenty of omega 3 fatty acids for a healthy coat
High levels of fish protein
Blueberries for antioxidants
Probiotics for healthy digestion
Cons
Some owners do not like to feed their dogs canola oil
10. Wellness Simple Salmon & Potato Formula
Key Features
Calorie content 3,487 kcal/kg
Crude protein 34% minimum
Crude fat 15 % minimum
Crude fiber 7% maximum
Maximum moisture 10% maximum
With Dried Lactobacillus casei Fermentation Product, Chicory Root Extract and Manganese Sulfate
First three ingredients: Whitefish, Herring Meal (source of Glucosamine), Salmon Meal (source of Chondroitin Sulfate)
There’s plenty in the Wellness Simple Natural Limited Ingredient Dry Dog Food to keep your dog’s coat and skin, heart, digestion and immune system in great condition. Because there is a single source of animal protein (salmon and salmon meal) it is one of the best salmon based dog food recipes for dogs will allergies and food sensitivities. It also delivers pea protein and a range of vitamins and minerals.
It looks after your dog’s digestion with prebiotic fiber and probiotics. This grain free dog food also contains no meat by-product meals, wheat, corn, soy, dairy or eggs. There are no artificial preservatives, colors or flavors added.
Pros
Contains only five ingredients for dogs with allergies
Prebiotics and probiotics for intestinal health
Easy to digest carbohydrates
Made in the US
Cons
Kibble size may not be suitable for smaller dogs
11. Blue Buffalo Wilderness Large Breed Dog Food with Salmon
Key Features
Calorie content3,571 kcal/kg
Crude protein 32% minimum
Crude fat 14 % minimum
Crude fiber 6% maximum
Maximum moisture 10% maximum
With calcium, phosphorus and taurine
First three ingredients: Deboned Salmon, Chicken Meal, Pea Protein
This Blue Buffalo dog food with salmon is suitable for large breed dogs. This grain-free recipe is suitable for dogs with food sensitivities. It is protein-rich and has been put together by animal nutritionists. The high quality protein is provided by deboned salmon as well as chicken meal and fish meal. The carbohydrates are easy to digest to prevent stomach upsets, they are provided by sweet potatoes, peas and potatoes.
Blue buffalo salmon dog food also contains carrots, blueberries and cranberries which provide antioxidants to protect cells and maintain a healthy oxidative balance. The joints of large breed dogs can suffer significant stress so the recipe contains glucosamine and chondroitin to support mobility. The omega 3 fatty acids keep the skin and coat healthy.
Pros
Contains sweet potatoes for antioxidants
Packed with omega 3 fatty acids
Deboned salmon for protein
Glucosamine and chondroitin for joint health
Cons
Recipe is a bit rich for some dogs
Some dogs spit out some parts of the kibble
12. VICTOR Select Grain Free Yukon River Canine
Key Features
Calorie content 3666 kcal/kg
Crude protein 33% minimum
Crude fat 16 % minimum
Crude fiber 3.8% maximum
Maximum moisture 9% maximum
With Dried Lactobacillus Acidophilus Fermentation Product, Zinc Methionine Complex, Vitamin E Supplement
First three ingredients: Menhaden Fish Meal (source of DHA-Docosahexaenoic Acid), Peas, Chicken Fat (preserved with mixed Tocopherols)
Suitable for all life stages, VICTOR Select – Grain Free Yukon River Canine, Dry Dog Food delivers a full 74% meat protein. None of the protein is from grain sources. There are a number of added ingredients to support bodily functions. The selenium yeast supports cellular health and immune response and the carefully balanced mineral element looks after the skin and paw pad integrity.
Added probiotics and prebiotics make sure that the gut is populated with healthy bacteria which leads to efficient digestion. This salmon dog food is suitable for dogs of all breeds and therefore may be the best salmon dog food for you if you have multiple dogs.
Pros
Blend of ingredients for improved digestibility
Real salmon is the primary protein source
Vitamins, minerals and essential fatty acids
Selenium yeast for strong immunity
Cons
Contains chicken fat which could be a problem for dogs with allergies
Kibble is quite small which may not suit very large dogs
13. Holistic Select Anchovy, Sardine & Salmon Meals Recipe
Key Features
Calorie content 3,599 kcal/kg
Crude protein 33% minimum
Crude fat 16 % minimum
Crude fiber 3.8% maximum
Maximum moisture 9% maximum
With Dried Lactobacillus Acidophilus Fermentation Product, Zinc Methionine Complex, Vitamin E Supplement
First three ingredients: Menhaden Fish Meal (source of DHA-Docosahexaenoic Acid), Peas, Chicken Fat (preserved with mixed Tocopherols)
Providing balanced nutrition and focused on digestive support, the Holistic Select Natural Dry Dog Food, Anchovy & Sardine and Salmon Meal Recipe is a fish-based kibble with healthy fats which may help with gas and bloating. To help the gut digest efficiently, there are prebiotics, probiotics, live yogurt cultures, natural fiber and digestive enzymes to help sensitive stomachs.
The ingredients list packed with fresh fruit and vegetables, antioxidant-rich foods and natural ingredients. This salmon dog food is suitable for adult dogs of all breeds.
Pros
Excellent for digestive health
Omega fatty acids for a shiny coat
Taurine for a healthy heart
Antioxidants to protect tissues from damage
Cons
Not all dogs like the anchovy and sardine
Lots of ingredients so may not be the best salmon dog food difficult if your dog has complex allergies
14. Supreme Source Salmon Meal & Sweet Potato Recipe
Key Features
Calorie content 3,320 kcal/kg
Crude protein 26% minimum
Crude fat 11% minimum
Crude fiber 8% maximum
Maximum moisture 10% maximum
With Dried Seaweed Meal (Ascophyllumnodosum), blueberries and spinach
First three ingredients: Salmon Meal, Peas, Lentils,
The manufacturers describe this as a ‘gourmet’ dog food and when you look at the list of ingredients it is not hard to see why. The ingredients would not look out of place on a human menu. The sweet potato in this salmon dog food provides vitamin A and fiber as well being a great source of complex carbohydrates. The lentils are a useful source of non-animal protein but are also full zinc and iron.
The concentrated source of meat protein in Supreme Source Grain-Free Salmon Meal & Sweet Potato Recipe Dry Dog Food is salmon meal and whilst this salmon dog food does not contain any raw salmon meat, it has salmon oil which provides loads of omega fatty acids. There are some more unusual ingredients that you do not find in dog foods so often. The combination of ingredients such as blueberries, cranberries, spinach, and pomegranates offers fiber and a huge range of vitamins and minerals. Finally, the seaweed is great for intestinal and immune health.
Pros
Contains sweet potato which is a healthy complex carbohydrate
Salmon meal provides concentrated protein
Packed with fruits and vegetables
Seaweed to assist digestion
Cons
Kibble is quite small in size
Quite a strong odor
15. AvoDerm Salmon & Vegetables Recipe
Key Features
Calorie content 3208 kcal/kg
Crude protein 27% minimum
Crude fat 12% minimum
Crude fiber 8% maximum
Maximum moisture 10% maximum
With pea flour, avocado and flax seed
First three ingredients: Salmon, Herring Meal, Peas
If healthy skin and coat is a priority for you, Breeders Choice Pet Foods, LLC AvoDerm Natural All Life Stages Dry & Wet Dog Food is one of the best salmon dog food brands for you. This high quality pet food contains avocados to promote a healthy coat by nourishing the skin. The protein (amino acids) content is delivered by salmon and herring meal and the vegetables and added vitamins and minerals ensure that it delivers high quality nutrition for dogs of all life stages.
Dogs who are sensitive to some ingredients may do well on this pet food as it does not contain any by-product meals or preservatives. There are also no artificial colors or preservatives and there is no corn, wheat or soy in the recipe.
Pros
Avocado and flax seed for a shiny and healthy coat
Suitable for all life stages including senior dogs
Plenty of vitamins, minerals and antioxidants
No corn, wheat or soy
Cons
Not all dogs like the combination of wet and dry
Some dogs need more grain
Salmon Dog Food Buying Guide
Benefits of Salmon Dog Food
One of the main benefits of salmon dog food is found in what it does not contain rather than the nutrition it delivers. Salmon based dog food does not usually contain meat or poultry proteins but you should always check the ingredients list to make sure. Chicken and beef proteins are the main culprits when it comes to dog allergies so dog food with salmon is a convenient alternative. A salmon grain free dog food would be the best dog food for a dog that has meat protein and grain allergies.
Salmon is a highly nutritious food and provides essential amino acids to dogs so that their tissues can grow and repair. However, it also provides nutrients for many other bodily processes. Here are some of the main ones.
Fatty Acids and Mineral
The fatty acids and minerals salmon provides help to keep their coat healthy and looking its best. They nourish the skin and make sure that the hair follicles and natural oils are in top condition.
Immune System Support
Fatty acids support the immune system and may even reduce inflammation. These foods are often also packed with antioxidants which help to protect cells from environmental damage.
Weight Control
Some owners find that a salmon based food is better for weight control - it has a favorable protein to calorie ratio. Your pet will get all the protein they need but will not ingest an excess of calories.
DHA for Brain Function
Salmon puppy food provides DHA for healthy brain development in young dogs. Some people believe that it helps with puppy training but you will still need to put the work in!
How Often Can I Feed my Dog Salmon?
Salmon dog foods are designed to be eaten every day. You should feed your dog the quantity indicated in the feeding guide on the pack.
If you want to feed your dog some fresh salmon, you need to make sure that it is properly cooked and try to remove the skin. Serve them a small portion and only do this around once a week as a treat. Dogs should not be fed raw salmon or smoked salmon. Fresh cooked salmon is better for dogs than canned salmon.
Things to Look for in Dog Food with Salmon
The best salmon dog food needs to be nutritionally balanced and delicious. Beyond that, there are a few other things that you should look for.
Wild Caught Salmon
All salmon is nutritious but some people believe that farmed salmon contains higher concentrations of environmental pollutants than wild caught salmon so this is something that you may want to look out for.
Meat Proteins
There is no problem with dog foods having a mix of animal proteins if your dog does not have an allergy. However, always look at the ingredients list closely. If your dog has a chicken allergy, you need to avoid pet food that has chicken or chicken meal in it - even if it is not the first named ingredient. Any meat meal can trigger an allergy.
Added Protein Meal
Any meat or fish meal is a concentrated source of protein and is highly nutritious. Foods often contain an ocean fish meal such as sardine meal.
Grain-free
It is a misconception that the best dog food is always free from grains. That is not actually the case. Some grains are highly nutritious and it is only a problem if your dog has a grain allergy. For example, the combination of brown rice and salmon in a salmon and rice dog food is a very healthy option. The important thing is that there are no cheap fillers that have little or no nutritional value. Brown rice may be considered a grain but is highly nutritious.
First Ingredient
The first ingredient should always be meat, fish or a meat or fish meal to make sure that your dog gets enough protein. Salmon meal is not a bad thing! It is a very concentrated source of protein.
Additional Ingredients
There can be a huge range of 'special' ingredients that bring a unique combination of micronutrients. These foods tend to be rich in omega oils because of the salmon but others have added sunflower oil or avocado. Some even have seaweed!
Is Salmon Healthier than Chicken and Beef?
All pet owners want to provide a healthy meal for their pooch and are concerned for their dog's health. On the whole, salmon dog foods are a very healthy choice for dogs. Salmon is not quite as protein dense as chicken but it does bring additional benefits. It is naturally rich in essential fatty acids and tends to have more vitamin D and B12.
Of course, for a dog that has a chicken allergy it is certainly the healthiest option. It can stop the pain and discomfort of allergy symptoms and that is good news for you and your dog.
Sources
1. Salmon Poisoning Disease - Washington State University
2. Can Dogs Eat Salmon? - AKC