With so many dog food options to choose from, it can be hard figuring out what is best for your dog. All pooches are unique, with different requirements, health conditions and allergies to adhere to. For a healthy option suitable for most dog breeds, grain free dry dog food is a popular, affordable option packed with high quality ingredients perfect for promoting a healthy diet. With various grain free options available, find your dog’s next dish today.
In our comprehensive guide, we will explore the benefits of grain free dog food, as well as the various circumstances where a dog may require a grain free diet, and the different brands for you to choose from. We also explore the different elements to consider before switching up your dog’s diet, the health benefits of grain free dry dog food, and how we can help at Fetch.
Discover the proven benefits of grain free dog food
If your dog has certain allergies or health conditions, grain free dry dog food might be the best option
Here are the dog food brands we recommended for a grain free diet
Before changing your dog’s diet, here’s what you should consider beforehand
Here’s how grain free dog food can impact your dog’s health
Here’s how we can help
Is Grain Free Dog Food Recommended?
Grain free dog food is highly recommended for dogs of all breeds and ages. Grains such as rice and corn are filler ingredients and don't provide much nutritional benefit. Grain-free dog food options replace these grains with ingredients such as sweet potato to add carbohydrates to your dog’s diet as well as flavour and other nutritional additions. Other benefits to grain free dry dog food include:
- Balanced energy
- Better breath, as grain free dog food is less likely to leave a film on your dog’s teeth
- Weight control
- Reduced waste, and compact stool (easier for you and your dog!)
Grain free dog food also has plenty of health benefits, which we will explore later. If you’re considering switching your dog to a grain-free diet for health reasons, contact a canine nutrition expert here at Fetch for a wellbeing consultation. We understand that what you feed your dog makes a great difference to their health, so we can provide you with a personalised nutrition plan to ensure your dog is getting the most out of their diet.
How Do I Know if My Dog Should Be Grain Free?
Any dog can benefit from a grain free diet, but some dogs may require one for their health. Conditions include:
- Allergies: grains are common allergens, so must be avoided if your dog is showing signs of allergies.
- Skin conditions: allergic reaction can include itchy, flaky skin, so trying a grain free diet could be the best next step.
- Digestive issues: if your dog is struggling to digest their food, consider a grain free diet
You can find out more about grain free dry dog food benefits in our previous guide here.
Grain Free Dog Food Options for 2025
At Fetch, we stock a wide range of high-quality grain free dry dog food, including:
- Nourish Rite: completely grain free and packed full of essential vitamins and minerals, Nourish Rite grain free dry dog food contains over 50% meat in each bag, with great sweet potato and Omega 3 content. Flavours include Angus beef, chicken and salmon.
- Alpha Spirit: as well as being grain free, Alpha Spirit is gluten free and a cold pressed food with a whopping 80% meat content.
- Innocent Hound: high in protein and accompanied by carbohydrates like sweet potato, Innocent Hound dog food is air dried to maintain natural vitamins and minerals.
- Orygo: a more premium option packed full of “superfoods,” Orygo contains 100% fresh ingredients, alongside a minimum of 85% meat.
You can browse our full collection of grain free dry dog food brands here.
Things to Consider When Choosing Grain Free Dog Food
Here are key things to consider when choosing high quality grain-free dog food to ensure it meets your dog's nutritional needs and overall health:
- Cost: the term “high quality” might seem like an expensive request, but there are plenty of premium grain-free dry dog food options that are affordable; however, you should consider your personal budget first.
- Reason for Going Grain-Free: Determine if grain-free food is necessary. Dogs with allergies or sensitivities to grains may benefit. Common grains like wheat, corn, and soy are often the triggers. Consult a canine nutrition expert before switching to ensure you receive a personalized plan for your dog.
- Ingredient Quality: Look for named protein sources (e.g. chicken, turkey). Avoid vague terms like “meat by-products.”
- Check for fillers: Avoid foods with excessive pea protein, potato flour, or tapioca, which can be used to replace grains but offer less nutritional value.
- Your Dog’s Age, Size, and Activity Level: Puppies, adult dogs, and seniors have different nutritional requirements. Active or working dogs may require higher protein and fat levels, while less active dogs need lower-calorie food to prevent weight gain.
- Your Lifestyle: if you do not have the freezer space, raw grain free dog food may not be for you. Dry grain free dog food is a convenient option for dog owners.
What Health Benefits Does Grain Free Dog Food Have?
Grain-free dog food can provide several health benefits for dogs, particularly those with specific dietary needs or sensitivities.
- Reduced Allergies and Sensitivities: Grain-free diets can benefit dogs with allergies or intolerances to grains like wheat, corn, or soy. Symptoms such as itching, red skin, ear infections, and gastrointestinal upset may improve when grains are eliminated.
- Improved Digestive Health: Some dogs have difficulty digesting grains, leading to gas, bloating, or diarrhea. Grain-free food often includes alternative, easier-to-digest carbs like sweet potatoes or pumpkin, which can promote better gut health. Foods with added prebiotics and probiotics can further support digestion
- Higher Protein Content: Grain-free formulas often prioritise high-quality animal protein (e.g., chicken, fish, lamb) as the main ingredient. This helps support:
- Muscle development and maintenance
- Energy levels, especially for active dogs
- Healthy immune function
- Healthier Skin and Coat: Grain-free foods often contain ingredients rich in omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids (e.g., salmon, flaxseed oil, fish oil). These help:
- Reduce dry, flaky skin
- Promote a shinier, healthier coat
- Minimize shedding and irritation caused by allergies
- Reduced Inflammation: Dogs prone to joint issues or inflammation may benefit from grain-free diets, as certain grains can trigger inflammatory responses in sensitive dogs. High-quality grain-free foods often contain anti-inflammatory ingredients like fish or flaxseed.
Grain Free Dry Dog Food at Fetch
At Fetch, we stock various grain free dry dog food options perfect for dogs of all ages and breeds. Our canine nutrition experts can also provide discreet wellbeing consultations to determine the best diet and supplements needed for your dog to live a healthier, happier life. Whether you and your dog could benefit from a raw food diet or would prefer the convenience of dry dog food, we’re here to help.
Get in touch for a wellbeing consultation today.
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