All Dog Food Reviews in Australia

May 11, 2023

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Below is a list of dog food reviews for brands available in Australia (including imported brands).

All reviews have been written by a qualified pet nutritionist in the hope they offer insight into what you’re actually feeding your dog. Pet food marketing is very clever, so hopefully these reviews will offer you a clearer truth so you can make a more informed decision.

Feedback is very welcome. These reviews are designed to better the health of our dogs, so any informed opinions or criticism is encouraged.

If you want to know my thoughts on how we should feed our dogs, spare 10 minutes to read my short guide How To Feed A Dog!

More information about how these reviews are written can be found in the “About these dog food reviews” section at the bottom of this page.

Take advantage of offers from Pet Circle or Lucky Pet who almost always have offers on many of the dog foods listed below.

Best-rated dog food reviews

These are our current list of best-rated dog food reviews. This list will change over time, so check back whenever you’re stocking up. Feeding a variety of these dog foods is an excellent idea, and we encourage the feeding of fresh, raw, or raw meaty bones as part of your dog’s diet.

Alternative dog food reviews

Alternative dog food reviews include made to order, air-dried, freeze-dried, rolls, or other styles which can’t be classified as dry or wet commercial dog foods.

Dry dog food reviews

The amount of dry dog foods available in Australia will boggle your mind. In reality most come from the same handful of major manufacturers such as Mars, Nestle, Colgate-Palmolive, and our largest Australian pet food manufacturers Real Pet Food Co, Coprice, and Hypro.

Due to constant changes of brands and formulas in Australia it is possible for these dog food reviews to become out of date. If in doubt check the date of the review, or leave a comment if you find any to be out of date.

Puppy food reviews

For better information we have a guide to feeding puppies.

Working dog food reviews

For better information we have a guide to feeding working dogs.

About these dog food reviews

Each review is written firstly on the ingredients list and guaranteed analysis, with an explanation on what the ingredients really are and what percentage likelihood they will be (i.e. chicken may be listed first, but if this follows 4 or 5 grains then there won’t be much chicken in the overall formula).

Many other factors are considered without being specifically noted. Consumer feedback will affect how the reviews are rated, especially if a dog food has numerous suspect reports of sickness or diarrhoea (which sadly happens all to often).

Many dog foods in Australia come from the same handful of manufacturers, with more being churned out every week to replace a tarnished brand. Some manufacturers have a worse track record than others, and some manufacturers have shown to have a very high standard of manufacture.

Marketing is always at play, and given the lax standards of pet food regulation in Australia it’s very common for a pet food manufacturer to bend the rules or use cunning tricks to deceive unsuspecting consumers.

All these factors, and others, are accounted for in these dog food reviews.

If any dog food reviews are missing feel free to contact us and we’ll add a review.

41 Comments

Alan October 19, 2024 at 3:57 pm

Hi David, The review of the Prime 100 SPD kangaroo & pumpkin rolls was exactly the information we needed. We have an 11 year old toy poodle who suffered two bouts of pancreatitis in January (fortunately acute). The vet recommended Hills ID Low Fat, which we duly started feeding. In July he had his gall bladder removed (hugely enlarged) and recovered very well. A few weeks ago he refused the Hill ID and developed some gastric issues. Blood tests showed a slightly elevated inflammatory marker but normal liver, kidney & pancreas enzyme levels. We started him on steamed chicken & rice (recommended by the vet) but he is now refusing this. We have now tried small amounts of the SPD kangaroo & pumpkin which he is eating. I noticed that Prime 100 also have a slow cooked kangaroo & pumpkin product. Ingredients seem to be very similar to the roll but it contains more moisture. The roll is quite dry. Any thoughts on this product?
- Reply
  David D'Angelo November 2, 2024 at 7:53 pm
  
  Hi Alan, generally I find the Prime 100 products decent, and the rolls offer you more moisture than any kibble (moisture is always important in a dog’s diet, which is often sadly unconsidered with a kibble diet). Pumpkin is fibrous so will tend to absorb moisture, and lower fat rolls will also feel less moist. They’re probably the two major factors, but as long as your dog drinks fresh water as well I wouldn’t be concerned. Hopefully that helps!
Lani July 10, 2024 at 1:49 pm

Love to see a review on the new Ziwi peak steam range.
Michael March 5, 2024 at 5:07 pm

Have you considered reviewing Purely Pawsome dry dog food from Thailand. It is sold at target and Kmart and a number of online sellers. The ingredients appear above average, yet price is very inexpensive $10 for 2.4 kgs they claim to conform to AAFCCO standards

Ingredients for adults chicken and vegetables variety:
POULTRY MEAL, SOY BEAN MEAL, TAPIOCA, RICE, WHEAT BRAN,
POULTRY FAT, FISH MEAL, TAPIOCA FLOUR, FISH MEAL, DIGESTED ANIMAL PROTEIN, POTATO STARCH, SALMON OIL, VITAMINS AND MINERALS, BREWER DRIED YEAST, SALT, CHOLINE CHLORIDE, ALGAE POWDER, POTASSIUM CHLORIDE, L-THREONINE, FRUCTO-OLIGOSACCHARIDE (FOS), PUMPKIN POWDER, CARROT POWDER, SPINACH POWDER, ROSEMARY EXTRACT, YUCCA SCHIDIGERA EXTRACT, VITAMIN C,
VITAMIN E, MIXED TOCOPHEROLS.

Analysis:

PROTEIN 26.00 % Minimum
FAT 12.00 % Minimum
FIBRE 5.00 % Maximum
ASH 10.00 % Maximum
MOISTURE 10.00 % Maximum
- Reply
  David D'Angelo July 27, 2024 at 10:12 pm
  
  Looks like a lot of soy, tapioca, rice, and wheat bran to me!
DIANA December 19, 2023 at 10:52 am

Hi, have you trialled Healthy Houndz food? I just received an email from a lady who I get my dogs’ Manuka honey and hemp shampoo from and their email mentioned Healthy Houndz food.
regards Diana
Brent November 14, 2023 at 8:59 pm

Greetings David
Am incredibly impressed at how much information you put into your web site. Its depth and wealth of knowledge and impartiality is bloody amazing.
A suggestion, if I may.
Why don’t you have a Paypal donation ‘box’ on the web page and suggest that if viewers would like to make a donation – with NOTHING over, say $5 – then this can go to you continuing and updating the web site.
If Wikipedia and Adblock can do it – then why not yourself? (and yes I donate $3-5 when these come up because I appreciate what they do – and yes I know they’re run by millionaires).
Your site is too good not to have something like this.
regards
Brent Walker – South Australia
Lisa November 10, 2023 at 7:49 am

Is it possible to build a way to sort all dog food reviews by rating? And maybe sort by price and filter by type? I would love to find the best rated dog food in my price range.
- Reply
  Pet Food Reviews (Australia) November 13, 2023 at 9:29 pm
  
  Hi Lisa, unfortunately I can’t list them by rating due to a technical reason.
  
  Because the foods on the best rated list are expensive I’ve also created a list for more affordable dog foods here. Even some of those aren’t cheap, but cheaper foods tend to be unhealthy.
  
  There might be some useful tips on the article How to Feed a Dog which discusses ways to feed a dog healthy foods on a tighter budget.
Thomas August 16, 2023 at 6:35 pm

Thanks for your great work! We recently got a puppy and your reviews have been a godsend.

I noticed that Woolworths stock a brand called “Animals like us”. It’s a New Zealand brand and seems quite reasonably priced. Is there any chance that you could do a review on that? Thank you!
- Reply
  David D'Angelo July 30, 2024 at 5:22 pm
  
  Bit of a delay in responding, but here’s an Animals Like Us review!
Katherine July 24, 2023 at 9:12 pm

Hi! I would like to see you review Bugsy’s Air Dried Raw Food. They’re made in Australia. My dog loves Bugsy’s Kangaroo but I’m curious to hear your thoughts on their meals.
- Reply
  David D'Angelo July 30, 2024 at 5:24 pm
  
  Hi Katherine, here’s a review of Bugsy’s!
Aly May 27, 2023 at 11:33 am

Could you please write an article on how to read the the labels on pet foods. Eg first three ingredients are the main ingredients of the bag etc
- Reply
  Pet Food Reviews (Australia) June 1, 2023 at 6:32 pm
  
  Hi Aly, yes I can – it probably means giving away some of my trade secrets, but if it helps people make better choices then I definitely will.
  
  I’ve sketched out some topics, but it may take me a bit of time to get it all done. Mission accepted.
  
  https://www.petfoodreviews.com.au/how-to-read-pet-food-labels/
Linda April 6, 2023 at 6:17 am

I wonder if you have had a chance to review the Nosh Product meals.

I noticed that someone asked the same question back in December 2022.

Would love to get your thoughts on it. Thankyou
Lani December 20, 2022 at 7:55 am

Love to see a review on the nosh project
SUSAN October 7, 2022 at 6:19 am

It would be nice to see a review on Meat Mates here. I’ve used both the Beef & Lamb varieties, and find my Papillons prefer the Lamb – although it’s a close call! They absolutley go crazy for it! It’s rather expensive, so I don’t feed it exclusively, but I think it’s right up there with Ziwi Peak.
Xae September 29, 2022 at 6:55 am

Hey there, thanks for all your work. Great resource!

Was wondering what your take is on the big name (mars/nestle etc) “mature” pet food ranges? Got an older dog on one of them but I think he’d be better off on any of the higher quality adult foods from a real brand. Am I thinking right?

Thanks!
- Reply
  Pet Food Reviews (Australia) September 30, 2022 at 9:33 pm
  
  Hi Xae, it’s a very good question. From my perspective “senior” or “mature” formulas are the opposite of what they should be. I find they’re usually lower protein, lower fat, and higher carbohydrates than the Adult formulas, whereas older dogs would depend more on correct (let’s say prey) ingredients to retain muscle mass and optimum health.
  
  I think it’s easy for a pet food manufacturer to say a dog needs less of the good stuff because they’re older and don’t have the same energy levels, which is convenient for them as it means they can produce a cheaper product for a higher markup.
  
  I think the best advice would be look at the ingredients and consider if they sound appropriate to you for your dog. Even if you decided to feed a seniour formula, perhaps even add in some fresh meat, fat, organs, or meaty bones.
Brett August 9, 2022 at 6:25 pm

Hi!
Thanks for the great reviews – they have been very helpful for our fussy Frenchy!
Do you have an opinion on The Nosh Project range by any chance?
Thanks in advance.
Brett
- Reply
  Pet Food Reviews (Australia) August 11, 2022 at 5:08 pm
  
  Hi Brett, thanks for the feedback! Yes, I really need to add a review on The Nosh Project… so hopefully will very soon!
Danielle August 7, 2022 at 6:26 am

I am wondering if you have a list for dogs needing support with osteo-arthritis? We have a Guide dog, currently feeding Delicate Care but now discovered some joint issues so will need to switch to a good quality mobility/joint care food. Vets have suggested Hills and Royal Canin but……………
Avi May 24, 2022 at 8:20 pm

Hello everyone,
I have a 6 months old female border collie, I’ve been feeding her with dry food since I got her ( over 3months ago), and the kibbles i use is “optimum” adviced by the Vet.
but only recently I have got the chance to speak with a Border Collie Breeder and she suggests to stick with the dry food but use “black hawk” instead, is anyone able to give me an advice on what “black hawk” dry food is best for my puppy?
she’s more like a pet , not a working dog.

TIA
- Reply
  Pet Food Reviews (Australia) May 25, 2022 at 4:33 pm
  
  Hi Avi, there’s a guide to puppy foods here – https://www.petfoodreviews.com.au/best-puppy-food-australia/
  
  It’s worth reading the Black Hawk reviews (and comments) and also Optimum to give you some idea of those brands.
  - Reply
    Lil July 3, 2022 at 12:18 pm
    
    Any chance a review of the new prime ‘air’ food? I assume this was designed to compete with the likes of Ziwi. I was disappointed when my sample arrived as there was no ingredient list on the packet or fancy brochure.
    - Edanna July 3, 2022 at 6:43 pm
      
      He’s already done it, search for it in the magnifying icon. I’ve written my review of it, the dogs hated it lol.
John Cheater April 3, 2022 at 3:44 pm

Excellent site, have used it many times when thinking of changing food for my doggies. Your site has helped me avoid many mistakes.
Would be helpful to have a best economy food list, for a lot of us pensioners who can’t afford premium food for our dogs, but don’t want to feed them rubbish.
- Reply
  Pet Food Reviews (Australia) April 3, 2022 at 4:03 pm
  
  Hi John, thanks for the positive feedback – it’s appreciated.
  
  If you haven’t seen it already there’s a list of more affordable brands here, which I appreciate are still not an economy budget. It gets difficult recommending commercial dog food brands below that standard, but hopefully this guide on feeding a dog on a budget may also help – have a look at the “feeding strategies” section.
  - Reply
    John Cheater April 3, 2022 at 4:47 pm
    
    Thanks for your prompt response, and you’re right, affordable brands are still not an economy budget. Enjoyed your articles though.
    For information we feed mid range dry food (Natures Goodness) mixed with prime 100 roll or 4 legs chicken & rice, and sometimes add mixed vegetables. All reasonably priced and never had any problems.
Sarah March 31, 2022 at 11:07 pm

How come Canidae fell off the best dog foods list when it was a 9 out of 10? Is that a glitch or did something change with the brand?
Thank you for your great reviews. xx
- Reply
  Pet Food Reviews (Australia) April 1, 2022 at 12:06 am
  
  I can’t believe how quickly you noticed! I’m an avid fan of Canidae, just trying a rotation recommended foods. I try and keep this as a list of 10 to 12 max.
Cletus March 6, 2022 at 11:29 am

Hi, i came looking for reviews (your insight and knowledge is informative, educational and eye opening) on the BARF i feed my dog but surprisingly to me (I thought it was a big name) it’s not listed. Perhaps it’s a local product and not available in your area? Although i just looked at their stockists and they are listed for QLD, NSW and VIC. I’m in Brisbane and the company is Canine Country. They have various flavours and advertise as human grade and my girl loves them. I add a chicken neck with each meal and a bit of hot water over to warm it up a little. Do you think this would degrade the quality or quantity of nutrients she gets from it or should be ok? She has been on this diet for around 2 years now as she approaches 3yrs old. She started out on meals for mutts puppy, but she lost interest in it after a few months and i switched to raw. Any advice or future review of these products would be much appreciated. Thanks!
- Reply
  Pet Food Reviews (Australia) March 8, 2022 at 6:15 pm
  
  Hi Cletus, I actually wasn’t aware of Canine Country (I’m in WA) but it looks like a decent BARF product and there are a lot of assurances with human grade meats over pet grade. I find one of the biggest problems with wet foods in general is the soft texture does not ward off plaque, which can easily lead to dental disease. Dry foods aren’t much better either, so bones are a great addition to the diet for dental health + nutrition.
Alex March 2, 2022 at 7:45 pm

Hi,
which dog wet foods do you recommend? My dog enjoys wet food for dinner, but wanting better quality.
- Reply
  Pet Food Reviews (Australia) March 8, 2022 at 5:58 pm
  
  Hi Alex, as yet I haven’t had the chance to review wet foods. I actually started this week with Zealandia which is a fantastic (and premium) wet food, but there are many decent brands – Ziwi Peak, Canidae, K9 Natural, Earthborn – actually most of the highly rated dry dog foods have a corresponding wet food equally as good (or better).
  - Reply
    Alex March 31, 2022 at 6:00 pm
    
    Thanks so much!!
Lil February 17, 2022 at 1:10 pm

Any chance you could do reviews of some of the dental chew products in time? Oravet, Greenies and Dentastix for example. Some people rave about them, I look at the ingredients and go hmmmm. I don’t know what half of the ingredients are, but I am certain they are not things I want my dogs consuming.
- Reply
  Pet Food Reviews (Australia) February 19, 2022 at 4:37 pm
  
  Hi Lil, I’ll try and write up some reviews – I think it would be useful for people. I feel the same as you, and find these treats mostly a gimmick. I often find raw fed dogs have much better teeth than any fed kibble and/or dental treats, purely from the ripping and chewing of meaty bones.
  - Reply
    Lori October 1, 2022 at 8:02 am
    
    Hi
    
    We now feed our puppy on Lyka (with some Orijen/Arcana kibble in the mornings), and the vet has expressed concern because its not “puppy specific”.
    
    She said there is nonsuch thing as all life stages and didn’t seem to make a distinction between unprocessed vs processed kibble type. Should I be switching to a puppy formula?
    
    Ive looked at The Nosh Project which is wholefood although they include rice & potatoes (and one macaroni) but they do have a puppy bowl.. am considering switching to that until he’s a year old. What are your thoughts on why she would say that?
    - Pet Food Reviews (Australia) October 5, 2022 at 6:38 pm
      
      Hi Lori,
      
      An “All Life Stage” dog food meets the requirements for all ages, including the puppy phase, which I believe is the case for Lyka, Orijen, and ACANA formulas (ACANA have a puppy specific formula).
      
      Because puppies need more nutrition when they’re growing they shouldn’t be fed an “Adult” formula, but an All Life Stage or Puppy formula should be fine. The only exception I would consider would be specific large breeds such as German Shepherds and Great Danes – in which case it can be worth looking into supplementing a dog food with foods or joint support tablets etc.