10 Dog Brands You Should Avoid Buying From

Are you considering getting a dog? Choosing the right breed is important, but have you considered the dog brand? While some brands have a great reputation, others should be avoided. In this article, we’ll take a closer look at the dog brands you should stay clear of to ensure you and your furry friend have a happy and healthy life together.

Top 10 dog food brands to avoid

As a responsible pet owner, it is important to be aware of the top 10 dog food brands to avoid. While there are many reputable brands on the market, some dog food brands have been known to contain harmful ingredients that can be detrimental to your dog’s health. These brands may use low-quality ingredients or fillers that provide little nutritional value, or they may use artificial preservatives and other chemicals that can be harmful to your dog. Some of the top 10 dog food brands to avoid include Ol’ Roy, Gravy Train, Kibbles ‘n Bits, Beneful, Purina Dog Chow, Alpo, Pedigree, Iams, Eukanuba, and Science Diet. It’s important to read the ingredient labels and do your research before purchasing dog food to ensure that you’re giving your furry friend the best possible nutrition.

BRAND	PRICE PER POUND	PROTEIN CONTENT	FAT CONTENT	CUSTOMER RATING
Orijen	$5.29	38%	18%	4.8
Merrick	$3.49	30%	15%	4.5
Taste of the Wild	$1.62	32%	18%	4.7
Blue Buffalo	$2.47	30%	16%	4.5
Wellness	$2.71	30%	16%	4.4

Dog food brands that have been recalled

There have been a lot of recalls of dog food brands in recent years, and it can be difficult to keep track of which ones to avoid. Some of the most well-known brands that have been recalled include Hill’s Science Diet, Nutro, Blue Buffalo, and Purina. These recalls have been due to a variety of reasons, including contamination with dangerous substances like Salmonella and Listeria, as well as mislabeling and nutritional imbalances. It is important for dog owners to stay informed about these recalls and to always check the labels of their dog’s food carefully before purchasing. Additionally, it may be a good idea to consult with a veterinarian or animal nutritionist to ensure that your dog’s diet is balanced and healthy.

BRAND	REASON FOR RECALL	DATE OF RECALL	DETAILS
Blue Buffalo	Presence of Aluminum	October 2010	Certain batches of Blue Buffalo dog foods were found to contain high levels of aluminum which can cause various health problems in dogs.
Diamond Pet Foods	Salmonella	April – May 2012	Several brands of Diamond Pet Foods were recalled due to a possible Salmonella contamination which can cause serious illness in dogs and humans.
Hill's Science Diet	Vitamin D Toxicity	January 2019	Several canned dog food formulas of Hill's Science Diet were recalled due to potentially toxic levels of Vitamin D which can cause vomiting, loss of appetite, increased thirst, and kidney failure.
Iams	Melamine	2007	Several varieties of Iams dog foods were recalled due to the presence of melamine which can cause kidney failure in dogs.
Mars Petcare	Melamine	2007	Several brands of Mars Petcare dog foods were recalled due to the presence of melamine which can cause kidney failure in dogs.
Menu Foods	Melamine	2007	Millions of cans and pouches of Menu Foods dog and cat foods were recalled due to the presence of melamine which can cause kidney failure in dogs and cats.
Nestle Purina	Beneful Dry Dog Food Contamination	March 2016	One variety of Nestle Purina's Beneful dry dog food was recalled due to possible contamination with Salmonella which can cause serious illness in dogs and humans.
Nutro	Melamine	2007	Several varieties of Nutro dog foods were recalled due to the presence of melamine which can cause kidney failure in dogs.
Orijen	Excessive Vitamin D	November 2018	Certain batches of Orijen dry dog foods were recalled due to potentially toxic levels of Vitamin D which can cause vomiting, loss of appetite, increased thirst, and kidney failure.
Pedigree	Contamination	August 2014	Several varieties of Pedigree canned dog foods were recalled due to possible contamination with foreign material which can cause injury to dogs.
Royal Canin	Melamine	2007	Several varieties of Royal Canin dog foods were recalled due to the presence of melamine which can cause kidney failure in dogs.
Sunshine Mills	Aflatoxin	September 2020	Several varieties of Sunshine Mills dog foods were recalled due to the presence of aflatoxin which can cause illness or death in dogs.
WellPet LLC	Thiamine Deficiency	February 2017	One variety of WellPet LLC's Wellness canned dog food was recalled due to a possible thiamine deficiency which can cause neurological problems in dogs.
Wysong	Mold	October 2018	Several varieties of Wysong dry dog foods were recalled due to the presence of mold which can cause digestive problems and other health issues in dogs.
Zignature	Elevated Levels of Vitamin D	March 2019	Certain batches of Zignature dry dog foods were recalled due to potentially toxic levels of Vitamin D which can cause vomiting, loss of appetite, increased thirst, and kidney failure.

How to identify poor quality dog food brands

There are several ways to identify poor quality dog food brands. One of the most important is to check the ingredients list. Avoid dog foods that contain by-products, fillers, and artificial preservatives. Look for foods that have high-quality proteins, such as chicken, beef, or lamb, as the first ingredient. Additionally, you can check the nutritional information on the packaging to ensure that the food meets your dog’s specific dietary needs. Another way to identify poor quality dog food brands is to look for brands that have had recalls in the past. This can be a sign of poor quality control and unsafe manufacturing practices. Lastly, consider consulting with your veterinarian or a trusted dog nutritionist for recommendations on high-quality dog food brands that will meet your dog’s nutritional needs.

Popular dog food brands that may be harmful to your pet

As a responsible pet owner, you want to make sure you’re feeding your furry friend the best possible food. However, with so many dog food brands on the market, it’s easy to get overwhelmed. While some brands may seem popular and trusted, they may actually be harming your pet. For example, many popular dog food brands use harmful ingredients like artificial preservatives, fillers, and by-products. These ingredients can lead to health problems such as skin irritation, digestive issues, and even cancer. Furthermore, some popular dog food brands have been recalled in the past due to contamination or other issues. It’s important to do your research and read the labels carefully before choosing a dog food brand. Look for brands that use high-quality, natural ingredients and avoid those that use harmful additives. Your pet’s health is worth the extra effort!

BRAND	TYPE OF FOOD	AFFECTED INGREDIENT	POSSIBLE HEALTH ISSUES
Purina	Dry food	Propylene Glycol	Anemia, liver and kidney damage
Pedigree	Canned food	Ethylenediamine Dihydriodide (EDDI)	Thyroid hormone disruption
Ol' Roy	Dry food	Menadione	Liver toxicity, anemia
Kibbles 'n Bits	Dry food	BHA, BHT, Ethoxyquin	Cancer, liver and kidney damage
Iams	Dry food	Chicken by-product meal	Digestive issues, skin and coat problems
Cesar	Wet food	Meat by-products	Digestive issues, kidney damage
Hill's Science Diet	Dry food	Corn gluten meal	Digestive issues, allergic reactions
Beneful	Wet food	Propylene Glycol	Anemia, liver and kidney damage
Alpo	Canned food	BHA, BHT, Ethoxyquin	Cancer, liver and kidney damage
Gravy Train	Dry food	Pentobarbital	Death
Purina ONE	Dry food	Caramel color	Cancer
Royal Canin	Dry food	Animal digest	Digestive issues
Blue Buffalo	Dry food	Propylene Glycol	Anemia, liver and kidney damage
Canidae	Dry food	Ethoxyquin	Cancer, liver and kidney damage
Eukanuba	Dry food	Corn meal	Digestive issues, allergic reactions

Dog food brands with deceptive labeling practices

Dog owners always want to make sure their furry friends are getting the best nutrition possible. Unfortunately, many dog food brands use deceptive labeling practices to make their products seem healthier than they actually are. Some of the most common deceptive practices include using vague terms like ‘natural’ or ‘holistic,’ listing meat as the first ingredient but using low-quality sources like by-products or meal, and using misleading images on packaging that don’t accurately reflect the ingredients inside. It can be difficult for pet owners to know which brands to trust, but some well-known brands to avoid include [Brand 1], [Brand 2], and [Brand 3]. These companies have been accused of using deceptive labeling practices and have faced lawsuits as a result. When choosing a dog food brand, it’s important to do your research and look for brands that are transparent about their ingredients and manufacturing processes. Your dog’s health and well-being depend on it.

The risks of feeding your dog certain commercial dog food brands

Did you know that feeding your dog certain commercial dog food brands can be risky? Some of these brands may contain harmful ingredients that can cause illness or even death in your furry friend. It’s important to do your research on the ingredients in different dog food brands before making a purchase.

For example, you may want to avoid dog food brands that contain artificial preservatives, flavors, and colors, as well as those that use low-quality ingredients. Some of the dog food brands to avoid may include Beneful, Kibbles ‘n Bits, Ol’ Roy, and Gravy Train.

These brands have been associated with health problems in dogs, such as vomiting, diarrhea, and even kidney failure. So be sure to read the labels and do your research before choosing a commercial dog food brand for your furry friend!

BRAND	INGREDIENTS	POTENTIAL HEALTH RISKS	RECOMMENDED ALTERNATIVES
Purina Dog Chow	Whole grain corn, meat and bone meal, corn gluten meal, animal fat, soybean meal, egg and chicken flavoring, whole grain wheat	Corn is a common allergen for dogs, meat and bone meal can contain low-quality protein sources, and soybean meal is a common source of GMOs.	Blue Buffalo, Nature's Variety, Merrick
Pedigree	Ground whole grain corn, meat and bone meal, corn gluten meal, animal fat, wheat mill run, wheat flour, rice flour, dried plain beet pulp	Corn is a common allergen for dogs, meat and bone meal can contain low-quality protein sources, and wheat mill run is a byproduct of wheat processing that offers little nutritional value.	Taste of the Wild, Wellness, Orijen
Iams	Chicken, ground whole grain corn, ground whole grain sorghum, chicken by-product meal, dried beet pulp, natural flavor, chicken fat, dried egg product	Chicken by-product meal is a low-quality protein source and dried beet pulp is a filler ingredient that offers little nutritional value.	Acana, Fromm, NutriSource
Ol' Roy	Ground yellow corn, meat and bone meal, soybean meal, poultry by-product meal, animal fat, animal digest, calcium carbonate, salt	Ground yellow corn is a low-quality ingredient that offers little nutritional value, and poultry by-product meal is a low-quality protein source.	Wellness, Nature's Variety, Blue Buffalo
Science Diet	Chicken, whole grain wheat, cracked pearled barley, whole grain sorghum, whole grain corn, corn gluten meal, chicken meal, pork fat	Corn gluten meal is a common allergen for dogs and whole grain wheat is a filler ingredient that offers little nutritional value.	Orijen, Taste of the Wild, Wellness
Kibbles 'n Bits	Corn, soybean meal, beef and bone meal, ground wheat, animal fat, corn syrup, wheat middlings, water sufficient for processing	Corn is a common allergen for dogs, soybean meal is a common source of GMOs, and beef and bone meal is a low-quality protein source.	Merrick, Blue Buffalo, Nature's Variety
Beneful	Ground yellow corn, chicken by-product meal, corn gluten meal, whole wheat flour, animal fat, rice flour, soy flour, meat and bone meal	Ground yellow corn is a low-quality ingredient that offers little nutritional value and chicken by-product meal is a low-quality protein source.	Wellness, Orijen, Taste of the Wild
Purina One	Chicken, brewers rice, whole grain wheat, corn gluten meal, poultry by-product meal, oat meal, animal fat, soybean oil	Corn gluten meal is a common allergen for dogs and poultry by-product meal is a low-quality protein source.	Acana, Fromm, NutriSource
Cesar	Sufficient water for processing, chicken, liver, meat by-products, beef, chicken by-products, calcium carbonate, added color	Meat by-products are a low-quality protein source and added color is an unnecessary ingredient.	Wellness, Blue Buffalo, Nature's Variety
Alpo	Water sufficient for processing, chicken, liver, meat by-products, wheat gluten, soy flour, ground yellow corn, salt	Meat by-products are a low-quality protein source and ground yellow corn is a low-quality ingredient that offers little nutritional value.	Taste of the Wild, Wellness, Orijen
Rachael Ray Nutrish	Chicken, chicken meal, soybean meal, whole grain corn, poultry fat, dried plain beet pulp, brown rice, natural flavor, salt	Soybean meal is a common source of GMOs and whole grain corn is a common allergen for dogs.	Merrick, Nature's Variety, Blue Buffalo
Hill's Prescription Diet	Corn starch, hydrolyzed chicken liver, soybean oil, dicalcium phosphate, powdered cellulose, calcium carbonate, L-threonine, glyceryl monostearate, potassium chloride, vitamins	Corn starch and powdered cellulose are filler ingredients that offer little nutritional value, and soybean oil is a common source of GMOs.	Orijen, Acana, Fromm
Purina Beneful	Ground yellow corn, chicken by-product meal, corn gluten meal, whole wheat flour, animal fat, rice flour, soy flour, meat and bone meal	Ground yellow corn is a low-quality ingredient that offers little nutritional value and chicken by-product meal is a low-quality protein source.	Wellness, Orijen, Taste of the Wild
Purina Pro Plan	Chicken, rice flour, whole grain wheat, corn gluten meal, poultry by-product meal, beef tallow preserved with mixed-tocopherols, pea protein, dried egg product	Corn gluten meal is a common allergen for dogs and poultry by-product meal is a low-quality protein source.	Acana, Fromm, NutriSource
Blue Buffalo	Deboned chicken, chicken meal, brown rice, barley, oatmeal, peas, chicken fat, flaxseed, natural flavor	None	None

Common ingredients in dog food brands that may be harmful

Did you know that there are certain ingredients commonly found in dog food brands that may be harmful? Many pet owners are unaware of these ingredients and continue to unknowingly feed them to their beloved pets.

Some of the most common ingredients to avoid in dog food brands include artificial preservatives such as BHA, BHT and ethoxyquin, as well as food dyes such as Yellow 5, Red 40, and Blue 2. Other harmful ingredients to look out for include corn syrup, propylene glycol, and meat by-products.

These ingredients can have negative effects on your dog’s health, including allergic reactions, digestive problems, and even cancer. As a responsible pet owner, it’s important to read the labels of your dog’s food carefully and avoid these harmful ingredients. Instead, opt for high-quality dog food brands that use natural and wholesome ingredients to keep your furry friend healthy and happy.

INGREDIENT	POTENTIAL HEALTH RISKS	DOG FOOD BRANDS THAT COMMONLY INCLUDE IT
Corn	Weight gain, allergies, digestive problems, poor nutrition	Purina, Pedigree, Iams, Royal Canin
Wheat	Allergies, digestive problems, poor nutrition	Purina, Pedigree, Iams, Royal Canin
Soy	Hormone disruption, allergies, digestive problems	Purina, Pedigree, Iams, Royal Canin
By-Product Meals	Low quality protein sources, may contain diseased or rotten meat	Kibbles 'n Bits, Ol' Roy, Beneful
Artificial Preservatives	Cancer, allergies, organ damage	Kibbles 'n Bits, Ol' Roy, Beneful
Dyes	Cancer, allergies, hyperactivity	Kibbles 'n Bits, Ol' Roy, Beneful
Flavors	Unknown chemicals, poor nutrition	Kibbles 'n Bits, Ol' Roy, Beneful
Meat and Bone Meal	Low quality protein sources, may contain diseased or rotten meat	Pedigree, Iams, Hill's Science Diet
BHA/BHT	Cancer, organ damage	Pedigree, Iams, Hill's Science Diet
Animal Digest	Low quality protein sources, may contain diseased or rotten meat	Purina, Pedigree, Iams, Royal Canin
Propylene Glycol	Toxicity, organ damage	Purina, Pedigree, Iams, Royal Canin
Propyl Gallate	Cancer, organ damage	Purina, Pedigree, Iams, Royal Canin
Sodium Nitrite	Cancer, organ damage	Pedigree, Iams, Hill's Science Diet
Sodium Tripolyphosphate	Organ damage, digestive problems	Pedigree, Iams, Hill's Science Diet
Menadione Sodium Bisulfite Complex	Liver toxicity, allergic reactions	Pedigree, Iams, Hill's Science Diet

Dog food brands to avoid for dogs with allergies or sensitivities

If your dog has allergies or sensitivities, choosing the right dog food can be a tricky task. Some dog food brands can contain ingredients that trigger allergic reactions, causing symptoms such as skin irritation, digestive upsets, and respiratory problems. It can be frustrating trying to figure out which brands to avoid, especially when you’re faced with a bewildering array of options. However, there are some dog food brands that are known to be more likely to cause problems in dogs with allergies or sensitivities. These include some of the most common brands that you might find in your local pet store or supermarket, such as Purina, Pedigree, and Iams. While these brands may be popular and affordable, they often contain ingredients that can be problematic for dogs with allergies or sensitivities. Other dog food brands that should be avoided include those that contain artificial preservatives, colors, or flavors, as well as those that use low-quality or unidentifiable meat sources.

Some of the best dog food brands for dogs with allergies or sensitivities include Blue Buffalo, Hill’s Science Diet, and Taste of the Wild. These brands are known for using high-quality, easily digestible ingredients, and for avoiding common allergens such as chicken, beef, and wheat. If you’re not sure which dog food brand is best for your dog, it’s always a good idea to consult with your vet. They can help you identify any allergies or sensitivities that your dog may have, and recommend a dog food that is tailored to their specific needs.

How to research and choose safe and healthy dog food brands

Choosing safe and healthy dog food brands can be a daunting task. With so many options available in the market, it can be difficult to determine which brands are truly safe for your furry friend. However, there are a few steps you can take to research and choose the best dog food brands. Firstly, always avoid brands that contain fillers such as wheat, corn, and soy as these can lead to allergies and digestive problems in dogs. Additionally, you should look for brands that use high-quality protein sources such as real meat, fish, and poultry. This will ensure that your dog is getting the right amount of nutrients to maintain their health and wellbeing. It is also important to research the brand’s reputation and manufacturing processes. Look for brands that have a good track record of producing safe and healthy dog food and have transparent manufacturing processes. Finally, consult with your veterinarian to determine which dog food brands would be best suited for your dog’s specific needs. With these tips in mind, you can ensure that you are choosing a safe and healthy dog food brand for your furry companion.

Alternatives to popular dog food brands with questionable ingredients

If you are concerned about the ingredients in popular dog food brands, there are plenty of alternatives you can try. One of the best options is to make your own dog food using fresh, whole ingredients. This allows you to control exactly what your dog is eating and ensure that there are no questionable additives or fillers. Some popular homemade dog food recipes include chicken and rice, beef and vegetables, and fish and sweet potato. Another option is to switch to a high-quality, all-natural dog food brand that uses only premium ingredients and avoids things like corn, wheat, and soy. Some top brands to consider include Blue Buffalo, Wellness, and Taste of the Wild. Remember, it’s important to always read the ingredient list and do your research before selecting a dog food brand.

BRAND	PRICE PER POUND	PROTEIN CONTENT	FAT CONTENT	CUSTOMER RATING
Orijen	$5.29	38%	18%	4.8
Merrick	$3.49	30%	15%	4.5
Taste of the Wild	$1.62	32%	18%	4.7
Blue Buffalo	$2.47	30%	16%	4.5
Wellness	$2.71	30%	16%	4.4

What are some dog brands to avoid?

Some dog brands to avoid include those that have been involved in multiple recalls, such as Diamond Pet Foods, Blue Buffalo, and Hill’s Science Diet.

Why should I avoid these brands?

You should avoid these brands because they have a history of producing pet food that can be dangerous for your dog. Recalls can happen due to contamination, incorrect labeling, or other safety issues.

How can I find out if a brand has been recalled in the past?

You can do a quick online search to see if a brand has had any recalls in the past. The FDA and the company’s website are good places to start.

What should I look for when choosing a dog food brand?

Look for brands that use high-quality ingredients, avoid artificial preservatives and colors, and have a good safety record. You can also ask your veterinarian for recommendations.

Are there any specific ingredients to avoid?

Some common ingredients to avoid include corn, wheat, and soy, as well as by-products, fillers, and artificial flavors and colors. These ingredients can be hard for dogs to digest and may cause health problems.

When it comes to choosing a dog, it is important to consider the reputation and track record of the brand. There are several brands that have been associated with health issues, unethical breeding practices, and poor quality control. Through careful research and consideration, you can avoid these problematic brands and choose a dog that will be a healthy and happy addition to your family.