The 2 Best Grain-Free Dog Foods Compared

Finding the best grain-free dog food for your pet can be overwhelming, given the wide range of options on the market. Two brands that stand out are Taste of the Wild and Blue Buffalo. Both offer high-quality products tailored to meet the nutritional needs of your furry friend, but how do they stack up against each other?

In this article, we’ll compare two popular grain-free dog food options: Taste of the Wild High Prairie and Blue Buffalo Life Protection Formula Natural Adult Dog Food. Let’s break down their differences and help you make an informed choice for your dog’s health and well-being.

1. Ingredient Quality and Sourcing

Taste of the Wild High Prairie emphasizes a recipe inspired by the ancestral diet of dogs, incorporating real roasted meats as its primary protein source. The first ingredient is buffalo, followed by lamb meal and chicken meal. This formulation ensures a protein-rich diet that mimics what dogs might have eaten in the wild. Additionally, Taste of the Wild contains sweet potatoes, peas, and potatoes to provide easily digestible sources of carbohydrates, avoiding grains altogether.

Moreover, Taste of the Wild is known for using high-quality, novel protein sources like roasted bison and venison, which can be ideal for dogs with food sensitivities or allergies. All ingredients are sourced from sustainable farms, with a focus on whole foods, ensuring a diet free from artificial flavors, colors, or preservatives.

On the other hand, Blue Buffalo Life Protection Formula prides itself on its use of real meat as the first ingredient—in this case, deboned chicken. It also includes whole grains, such as brown rice and barley, which provide fiber and promote digestion. While this formula isn’t entirely grain-free, Blue Buffalo includes its signature „LifeSource Bits“—a blend of antioxidants, vitamins, and minerals that support immune health and overall vitality.

For those concerned about grains, it’s worth noting that the presence of whole grains in Blue Buffalo’s formula may not be an issue for all dogs, but it could be a drawback for dogs with grain allergies or sensitivities. Additionally, Blue Buffalo’s focus is on balancing a high-protein diet with healthy fats and carbohydrates from grains, which is better suited for active dogs who benefit from complex carbs for energy.

2. Protein Content

One of the most important aspects of any dog food is the protein content. Taste of the Wild High Prairie boasts a 32% crude protein level, with its primary sources being buffalo, lamb meal, chicken meal, and roasted venison. The high protein level mimics the diet of wild canines, supporting muscle development and promoting healthy growth, especially for more active or working dogs.

In contrast, Blue Buffalo Life Protection Formula contains a 24% crude protein level, which comes primarily from deboned chicken and chicken meal. While this is still a decent amount of protein, it’s slightly lower than Taste of the Wild, making it a better option for moderately active dogs. Additionally, Blue Buffalo’s protein sources, though high-quality, are more conventional compared to the novel proteins used in Taste of the Wild.

3. Nutritional Additives and Supplements

Both brands include added nutrients and supplements, but their approaches differ.

Taste of the Wild includes a powerful blend of vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants from natural sources like fruits and vegetables such as blueberries and raspberries. These ingredients support a healthy immune system and promote overall vitality. Another advantage is that it contains probiotics, which aid in digestion and promote gut health—something particularly beneficial for dogs with sensitive stomachs. Omega-3 and Omega-6 fatty acids from sources like salmon oil and flaxseed support healthy skin and a shiny coat.

Blue Buffalo takes a slightly different approach by offering its unique LifeSource Bits. These cold-formed bits contain a precise blend of antioxidants, vitamins, and minerals that are processed at low temperatures to retain potency. This blend is specifically designed to support your dog’s immune system, ensuring they get a balanced and complete diet. Additionally, Blue Buffalo contains glucosamine, which helps support joint health, making it a good choice for older dogs or larger breeds prone to joint issues.

4. Price Comparison

When it comes to cost, both brands are on the premium end of the spectrum, but there are some notable differences. On average:

• A 28-lb bag of Taste of the Wild High Prairie is priced around $50-$55, making it a more affordable option for those looking for grain-free, high-protein food. Given its protein content and the inclusion of novel proteins, Taste of the Wild offers excellent value for money.
• A 30-lb bag of Blue Buffalo Life Protection Formula is slightly more expensive, typically ranging between $55-$65. This higher price can be attributed to the inclusion of premium ingredients like the LifeSource Bits and added supplements such as glucosamine.

While Blue Buffalo is marginally more expensive, its inclusion of whole grains and joint-supporting ingredients might make it worth the price for certain dogs, especially larger or older pets.

5. Taste and Palatability

Another critical factor to consider is taste. Some dogs may prefer the richer, meatier flavors of Taste of the Wild, especially if they are used to a more ancestral or wild-inspired diet. The venison and bison flavors are particularly enticing for dogs who enjoy game meats.

On the other hand, dogs who prefer a simpler, chicken-based flavor will likely enjoy Blue Buffalo. The inclusion of wholesome grains may also provide a different texture, making it appealing to dogs accustomed to grain-inclusive diets.

Conclusion: Which One is Right for Your Dog?

Ultimately, the choice between Taste of the Wild High Prairie and Blue Buffalo Life Protection Formula comes down to your dog’s specific needs and preferences.

• If your dog has grain allergies, requires novel proteins, or enjoys a diet closer to their ancestral roots, Taste of the Wild is a fantastic choice. Its high protein content and inclusion of probiotics make it ideal for active dogs with sensitive digestion.
• If you have a moderately active dog, especially an older or larger breed that could benefit from joint support and a balanced diet with whole grains, then Blue Buffalo Life Protection may be the better option.