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Best Dog Food for 2025 : Independently Tested & Reviewed

  • Writer: Smart Bark
    Smart Bark
  • Jul 30
  • 23 min read

Updated: Aug 4

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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 the No 1 dog food that would be the best choice for all dogs.


Best dry dog food
photograph : shutterstock

We'd recommend opting for a high-quality, complete dog food. These foods are specifically formulated to provide all the essential nutrients your dog needs. You'll find them in a wide variety of forms, including wet food, dry kibble, raw, and fresh.


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 roundup including Different Dog, Years, Bella+Duke, Forthglade, Wilsons, Edgard & Cooper and Butternut Box.


Pure Pet Food npffer for dog food

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. 


We've not only compared nutritional rating, price, convenience and palatability to help you decide which is the best dog food, every brand in our review has been fully tested. We also regularly check the British Veterinary Association for the latest information and advice on choosing a dog food.


Jump to specific sections using the links below, or settle in for a deep dive – the choice is yours!


  

UPDATED : JULY 2025  Following our latest round of testing, we've picked Bella+Duke as our top pick raw dog food

  


Best Tailored Dry Food



What are the Best Dog Foods in 2025 ? At a Glance




Best Insect Dog Food


Which Dog Food is Best?


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.


Best Wet Dog Food
photograph : shutterstock

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.


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.


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.

 



Our Picks of The Best Dog Foods 2025



1. Best Dry Dog Food

Forthglade


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, Lightly Baked Dry & wet food, treats & dental sticks

 

Variety: Turkey, Duck, Chicken & Salmon


Clarity of Label: Excellent - full list of ingredient %


Price: £

Buying Options :


⭐️ Stock Up ! ⭐️

Save 40% on Forthglade's range

enter our discount code SMARTBARK40 at checkout


Dry dog food is a top pick for many dog owners, and it's easy to see why—it's incredibly convenient. If you're in the UK and searching for the best dry dog foods, you're spoilt for choice. We recommend aim for the highest quality you can afford, and consider getting it delivered right to your door.


top 10 best dry dog food uk - Forthglade with dog
photograph : smartbark

Cold-pressed dry dog food is a newer option that's quickly gaining traction. It offers all the benefits of traditional dry foods but is made without the high-temperature extrusion methods that can potentially damage nutrients.


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 and affordable dry dog foods in the UK.


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 your more picky pups (and their happy tummies!). We feature the Forthglade wet food range later in this review.


Labrador testing forthglade dried dog food
photograph : smartbark

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 did comment that the kibble is on the larger, crunchier side compared to her dogs regular bites. It got her wondering how the smaller breeds would tackle those chunky morsels!


Luckily, Forthglade’s got the little guys covered. Their Turkey dry food comes in a special small-pellet version that’s just right for petite pups.


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.


Cold Pressed dry dog food
photograph : forthglade

We love Forthglade's dry food for its quality and variety. Whilst 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 slightly more affordable alternative. These recipes boast an impressive 50% single-source protein and have earned a very respectable 70% rating from AADF.


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 - 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.


⭐️ Stock Up ! ⭐️

Save 40% on Forthglade's range

enter our discount code SMARTBARK40 at checkout

How much you feed your dog really depends on how active they are and their metabolism - here’s a link to a handy guide on the Dog's Trust website to help you keep your best friend in tip-top condition.


2. Best Dry Complete Fresh & Raw Option

Wilsons


Reasons to Buy :    

   + Winner of 2025 Your Dog Awards

   + Trial boxes available

   + Can combine with raw or fresh ranges

   + Extensive protein range

   + Grain free - allergy friendly


Reasons to Avoid :

   - Bags aren't resealable


Behind the Brand:

Company producing pet food since 1861


Range:

Premium & Working Dog Cold Pressed, NEW Fresh Food, 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:


Recent winners of Your Dog Product Awards for 2025 (voted for by readers) - Best Dry Complete Food and Products You Can't Live Without, Wilsons range of dog food prioritises local sourcing with the focus on natural nutritious ingredients and the avoidance of any junk or fillers.


Wilsons awards for best cold pressed dog food

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



Wilsons premium dry food sample boxes
photograph : smartbark

Receiving an average rating of 75% on 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 of 100g bags so your dog can taste test all the recipes before you commit to a larger quantity.


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.


Wilsons raw dog foods
photograph : smartbark

Another key reason we recommend Wilsons, is they are the only company we've come across that offers raw, fresh and cold pressed food ranges formulated to be fed separately or together. 


Combining Wilsons cold pressed dry range with their raw or NEW fresh food could potentially reduce your daily feeding costs without compromising on quality. Plus if you have a picky pup, the raw and fresh recipes would make the food more appealing - think of them as tasty toppers.


Wilsons fresh dog food range

Their new Fresh food range is definitely worth a look as they gently steam the food to lock in all the nutrients. This means that the pouches can be stored in your pantry before opening, they don't require freezing like some other fresh dog food.


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, fresh and raw dog food range. Their flexible approach allows you to combine foods, making it perfect for travel or feeding-on-the-go.

Want to know more?

Check out our Wilsons in-depth review



3. Best Eco-Friendly Dry Dog Food


Reasons to Buy :    

   + Ethical dog food company

   + Zero Pawprint Plan

   + Plant-based options

   + Multi-pet households, they offer cat food


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:


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.


So what do we think of their dog food ?


Edgard & Cooper selection of dog food and treats
photograph : smartbark

Edgard & Cooper's dry food receives a solid nutritional rating of 64% on AADF. 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 & Salmon

🥕 Crispy Carrot & Courgette

🎃 Crunchy Beetroot & Pumpkin


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.


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 !


Edgard & Cooper meat and plant-based dry dog food
photograph : smartbark

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.


Initially, if you would like to test their food before committing, we think that their smaller 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.


  

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.

  

Use discount code SMART20

for 20% OFF the entire range

Want to know more?

Check out our Edgard & Cooper in-depth review



4. Best Subscription Dog Food

Butternut Box


Reasons to Buy :    

   + Fresh dog food

   + Hassle-free subscriptions    + Excellent nutritional value

   + Human-quality ingredients

   + Extensive range


Reasons to Avoid :

   + Needs freezer space

   + More expensive option than dry


Behind the Brand:

A UK-based company providing fresh, human-quality dog food delivery service through a subscription model


Range:

Fresh food recipes, treats, dental care treats, poo bags & broths


Variety : 

11 recipes


Clarity of Label:

Scan a QR code for ingredients list

Good - Ingredients with %


Price: The menu is personalised for each dog but generally daily prices are -

🐾 Small dog plans start from around £1.31

🐾 Medium from £2.66 

🐾. Large from £3.92 


Buying Options:


Fancy trying Butternut Box dog food ?

Butternut Box are offering Smart Bark readers

50% OFF your first box + 50% OFF your second box


When reviewing the best dog food contenders in the UK, Butternut Box, established back in 2016, is an undeniable frontrunner.


Butternut fresh dog food test
photograph : smartbark

Having delivered over eight million meals, they've clearly made a significant impact on canine diets. The brand enjoys exceptional customer retention and consistently receives enthusiastic reviews from dog lovers across the country.


Their food is available on subscription - it's fresh, delivered, customised and nutritious so let's take a look at why we think they are one of the best dog foods on the UK market today.


Getting started with Butternut Box is super easy – they have an online quiz that asks all about your dog, like their age, breed, any allergies, and if they have any health issues. This helps them figure out the best recipes for your pup.


When we tried their ordering system, they gave us loads of options and suggested picking a few different recipes to maximise variety.


Now, their food gets a really good rating (87%) on AADF, it's not quite as high as a couple of others, but it's still a top-notch, healthy choice.


dog eating Butternut Box subscription dog food
photograph : smart bark

Their meals are made by experts and skip all the common irritants—no grains, soya, sugar, or salt—which can really help if your pup has itchy skin.


Every dish is carefully balanced with human-quality meat, vegetables, and lentils, then gently cooked and delivered frozen right to your door. You get loads of variety too, from classic chicken and beef to special recipes with venison, wild boar, and even a veggie option. Your dog’s dinner just got a serious upgrade!


Butternut Box recipe selection in testing

We love the selection as it helps dog lovers with picky eaters rotate recipes every week, making it much easier to entice those fussy dog with new flavours.


Bear in mind that Butternut Box meals need freezer storage, so factor your available storage space into your delivery schedule. However the minimal packaging does mean you can fit a sizeable delivery into a freezer drawer.


If Butternut Box looks a bit pricey, consider mixing it 50:50 with kibble. It not only keeps costs down but also makes their kibble incredibly tasty and more nutritious.


Importantly, whichever option you choose, we think that their pricing is clear and it's easy to understand exactly what your costs will be going forwards.



Our Verdict - In a nutshell, Butternut Box offer a subscription service that delivers fresh, pre-portioned meals to your door.


They tick all the boxes for fresh, nutritious, delivered and personalised dog food and with the discount on your first two boxes, it's a great time to see if your dog is a fan.

  


Butternut Box are offering Smart Bark readers

50% OFF your first box + 50% OFF your second box

To take advantage of this offer, click on the link below

Want to know more?

Check out our Butternut Box in-depth review



5. Best Raw Dog Food

Bella+Duke


Reasons to Buy :

+ Top-tier food safety and quality assurance

+ Wide range of protein options

+ Lifestage options for puppy, adult & seniors

+ Full ingredient transparency

+ Money saving introductory offer


Reasons to Avoid :

- If you have a lack of freezer space


Behind the Brand: Multi-award winning raw dog food business


Range: Premium Complete, Complete Superfood, Complete, Pure Meat & Bone


Variety: Adult+Premium Complete 8 recipes, Adult + Complete 8 recipes, Puppy + Premium Complete 7 recipes, Puppy + Complete 7 recipes, + Complete Superfood (all life stages) 6 recipes, + Pure Meat + Bone (all life stages) 6 recipes


Clarity of Label: Excellent - full list of ingredient %


Price: £ - ££ depending on range and delivery volumes

Buying Options :


Amazing Bella+Duke Raw Dog Food Offer!

Get your dog started with 50% off your first box, 30% off the second,

 and 20% off the third


Considering raw dog food ?


Up next in our review is Bella+Duke, a British brand with multiple awards. Bella+Duke stands out as our leading choice for raw dog food thanks to their top-tier product quality, extensive range for adult dogs, puppies and seniors and value for money.


Bella & Duke - best raw dog food


It's worth mentioning that Bella+Duke has both RawSAFE and UK Pet Food certifications, providing you with a high level of reassurance regarding food safety and quality in production


So let's take a closer look at their four ranges-


⭐️ Premium Complete

This is their crowd-pleaser, the one most dog lovers pick as their first step. Packed with over 80% meat plus bone, offal, seasonal veggies, berries, and a touch of healthy oils. Every recipe is proudly grain- and gluten-free, so even sensitive tummies can dig in


⭐️ Complete Superfood

Perfect for pups who need a little extra TLC, whether they're bouncing back from illness, growing up fast, enjoying their senior years, or nursing their own pups. The magic? Superfoods like turmeric, ginger, and kelp for that additional nutritional punch


⭐️ Complete

Tailored for your energetic working dogs, think herders, hunters, or simply canine athletes. This range is designed for sustained energy and endurance with high-quality protein at its core


⭐️ Pure Meat & Bone

Simple and pure, just meat, bone and offal. It’s an ideal base for pet chefs who want DIY meals or care for dogs with allergies or dietary sensitivities. All life stages from puppy to senior can enjoy this range


Bella & Duke full range

Bella+Duke is only available online but their flexible subscription model means you can skip, pause or cancel whenever you like, hassle-free.


When it comes to ordering, Bella+Duke offer a handy online quiz: just answer a few fun questions about your dog’s breed, age, activity, and general canine quirkiness.



Once your plan is set up, Bella+Duke puts together a suggested menu for your pooch. Their recipe line-up includes chicken, lamb, fish, duck, salmon, beef tripe, and turkey.


Next, pick the box size that fits your life (and freezer).


If you're curious, you could try the Taster Box, but we’d recommend making the most of their hefty discounts for your first three orders (that’s serious savings on the Most Popular or Value Box sizes).


All Bella+Duke's meals are delivered frozen in 500g trays. Simply defrost them one at a time, incredibly easy to remember, just remove a new tray from the freezer as you finish one.


Dog eating Bella + Duke dog food


Meet Freddie, our dog tester—he gave Bella+Duke two paws up, clean bowls, and wagging tail. Mealtime is now his favorite part of the day!


Our Verdict - If you're considering raw dog food Bella+Duke's meals tick all the boxes, nutritious, convenient, and great value, making life easier for people with full calendars and hungry pups.


Add in their generous introductory deal, and it’s the perfect time to dive into raw feeding and see if it’s a match for you and your dog.



Buying Options


Amazing Bella+Duke Raw Dog Food Offer!

Get your dog started with 50% off your first box, 30% off the second,

 and 20% off the third


Learn more about the other raw dog foods we recommend



6. Best Air Dried Dog Food

Pure Pet 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: Online tailored food and a capsule range in Pets at Home


Recipes: 7 recipes


Clarity of Label: Good - partial list of ingredient %


Price: £


Buying Options :

Click for 40% OFF your first box & 15% OFF your next two


Pure Pet Food packaging and leaflets
photograph : smartbark

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. Their ingredients are 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!


Wet dog food is generally more appetising, so if you have a picky pup, chances are Pure will be more appealing than kibble.


Plus, Pure's recipes rank at the top of their nutritional scale with an All About Dog Food rating of 80%.


Pure Pet Food in a bowl
photograph : smartbark

As 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.


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 40% OFF your first box & 15% OFF your next two


Want to know more?

Check out our Pure Pet Food review



7. Best Fresh Dog Food

Years.com


Reasons to Buy :

+ Very high nutritional rating

+ No fridge or freezer storage concerns

+ Additional superfood supplement

+ Trial box available

  + Luxury Chef's Collection


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 and Limited Edition Chef Collection


Clarity of Label: Excellent - full list of ingredient % via a QR Code scan


Price: ££


Buying Options :


You can try Years.com from just £3

PLUS

use discount code SMARTBARK for free delivery


Years.com - best fresh dog food
photograph : years

Of course, the first thing to say about Years.com is that they have achieved an exceptionally high nutritional rating of 96% on AADF.


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.


Offering an online subscription service, you 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 offer a range of recipes all including a high variety of ingredients plus all their recipes are grain and legume free, which is ideal for dogs suffering from intolerances.


Years have recently launched their Chef's Collection. Limited edition recipes which include King Prawn & Giant Squid Paella, Wagyu Steak Lasagne and truffle 7 Venison Detroit Pizza.


This exclusive, gourmet dog food is the vision of Years' Head Chef Luke Alkemade, a seasoned culinary professional with experience in Michelin-starred dining, luxury yacht cuisine, and product development for Charlie Bigham's and M&S, and features the finest ingredients. Your pup is gonna love it!


Years Chef's Collection meals for dogs
photograph : years

However, the biggest difference between Years.com and their fresh food rivals (for us) 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 only needs to be popped in the fridge once opened.


In testing, we were certainly impressed by the look and aroma of their fresh dog food.


We loved that 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.


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

Want to know more? Why not read our Years Dog Food review



8. Best Wet Dog Food

Forthglade


Reasons to Buy :

+ Convenience

+ Long shelf life

   + Extensive range

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 whole grain recipes & variety packs

Clarity of Label: Excellent - full list of ingredient %


Price: ££


Buying Options :


⭐️ Stock Up ! ⭐️

Save 40% on Forthglade's range

enter our discount code SMARTBARK40 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. 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.


Forthglade wet dog food range
photograph : forthglade

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 AADF.


Whilst the adult range is broader, Forthglade also offer lifestage recipes aimed at both puppy and senior dog.


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 range of food for small dogs
photograph : smartbark

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 and come in smaller 150g trays.


During testing, our reviewers favored the trays over regular canned dog food, finding them easier for accurate portioning. They also appreciated the paste-like texture and found the aroma more appealing.


Forthglade gourmet wet dog food range
photograph : forthglade

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 novel 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.


Our Verdict - We recommend Forthglade wet foods because customers clearly love them, they offer an extensive recipe selection (including small dogs, seniors and puppies) and they make any kibble more palatable for picky pups.


⭐️ Stock Up ! ⭐️

Save 40% on Forthglade's range

enter our discount code SMARTBARK40 at checkout



9. Best Tailored Dry Food

Tails


Reasons to Buy :

   + Tailored to your dog

   + Best for convenience

   + 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 25% OFF your first box

 enter Discount Code SMART25 at checkout

(new customers only)


What Tails 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 all at a great price.


tails.com dog food
photograph : smartbark

Only available online, we found the process of creating our dog's very own, unique, custom recipe 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 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 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 amend their recipe as you update your dog's profile to reflect any changes in activity levels and weight.


tails dry dog food in a bowl
photograph : smartbark

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 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.


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 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 at tails and maybe trying their online quiz to get an accurate picture of the costs involved for your dog.


For 75% 0FF your first box

 enter Discount Code SMART75 at checkout

(new customers only)


Want to know more?

Check out our Tails dog food review



10. Best Insect Dog Food

Grub Club


Reasons to Buy :

+ Perfect eco-friendly option

+ Ideal for dogs with meat allergies

   + Wet & dry options available

+ No subscription necessary

Reasons to Avoid :

- If you don't believe in global warming


Behind the Brand: A low carbon paw-print, next-generation, high protein, novel, hypoallergenic dog food range


Range: Dried food, wet food, range of dog treats, poo bags & dental sticks


Varieties: All Day Buffet, Hearty HotPot, Superfood Supper & Farmhouse Feast

Clarity of Label: Good - partial list of ingredient %


Price: ££


Buying Options :


best insect-based dog food
photograph : grub club

If you're looking to reduce your carbon paw-print then we'd recommend taking a closer look at Grub Club.


A next-generation, high-quality dog food brand 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 gases than meat.


Insect-based dog food offers your dog a great source of novel protein. This is crucial for dogs with food allergies and sensitivities. In fact, insect dog food contains more protein than chicken or beef and it's easier for your dog to digest.



Grub Club insect food for dogs
photograph : smartbark

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's dry food, All Day Buffet, scores a 66% rating on AADF, while their wet food range achieves a very impressive 86%.


Grub Club insect dog food in testing
photograph : smartbark

Grub Club's latest wet food range includes three recipes each steam-cooked recipe to preserve maximum nutritional content and enriched with prebiotics to aid digestion. Pricier than the dry food, it would make a tasty topper for picky pups.


The All Day Buffet dry food is 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.


Their wet food range provides a variety of choices, allowing you to buy individual packs or save more by opting for 12, 24, or 36 packs.


To help you find your dog's favourite, they also offer a Taster Pack with four of each of the three flavours.


Also it's worth mentioning that further savings can be made by choosing a Subscribe & Save delivery.


Our Verdict - We recommend Grub Club for eco-friendly dog lovers looking for healthy, hypoallergenic, planet saving food.




Best Insect Dog Food


How We Choose


We kicked off our search for the UK’s best dog food by digging into top brands and game-changers, always with your pup’s health and happiness in mind. Our picks had to be nutritious, come in a wide range, deliver to your door, offer custom options, and be priced right.


At Smart Bark, we’ve tried it all: raw, fresh, tailored, dried, insect, and wet. With so many choices, we handpicked the standouts in each category.


Every product is tested by us and our team of canine critics before making the cut. No freebies we didn’t ask for; no reviews of stuff we wouldn’t use ourselves.


The majority of photos are ours, taken in real homes with real dogs. When we review a product, you get honest, first-hand feedback from genuine dog lovers who know what matters.


Best Insect Dog Food


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.

More Articles...

Why Trust Smart Bark ?

Claire is the founder of Smart Bark and a lifelong dog lover.

 

With a 10 year background in retail buying for one of the UK’s major retailers, she brings a keen eye for quality and value to every dog product review.

 

Claire personally tests every item featured on Smart Bark with her own family dog and her team of dog testers—so you get honest, expert advice (not recycled marketing blurb) from someone who truly understands what works in real life (and what doesn’t).

 

No gimmicks. Just trusted recommendations backed by experience.

 

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Smart Bark is a dog product review and recommendation destination for dog lovers. Discover the best UK dog brands, healthy dog treats and food, trending dog accessories and in-depth buying guides. 

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