10 Best Budget-Friendly Dog Foods

Here is our review of the best budget-friendly dog foods

Keep in mind that we may receive commissions when you click our links and make purchases. However, this does not impact our reviews

Are you looking for the best nutrition for your dog at an affordable price? Budget-friendly dog foods provide maximum nutritional benefits for your dog. You need not spend a fortune to give your dog premium nutrition.

Budget-friendly formulas are available in many pet stores. However, you should not compromise your dog’s health by going for foods that use cheap fillers and artificial additives, as they would cost more in the long run. Affordable dog food should be free from common allergens and cheap fillers, including corn bran, rice hulls, wheat mill run, or soy. They only add bulk to the food but have no nutritional value. Artificial additives, including flavors, colors, and preservatives, are harmful and should not be included in budget-friendly dog food.

Our extensive guide gives you the attributes of cost-effective dog food, the best cost-friendly brands to go to for, and other important facts about budget-friendly formulas. 

What are the attributes of budget-friendly dog food?

Going for inexpensive dog food does not mean compromising on quality. Look for premium recipes that give the best nutritional benefits but do not put a dent in your pocket. Listed are the attributes of affordable dog food:

• Made in a country that adheres to strict safety standards: These countries include the United States, New Zealand, Canada, Australia, and Western Europe. They follow the AAFCO and other regulatory institutions’ policies; hence, their formulas are least likely to be recalled. 
• Free from artificial additives: Some cheap foods use artificial additives to attract pet parents and dogs. The additives include flavor, colors, and preservatives. They cause more harm than benefits as they lack any nutritional benefit. 
• Whole recognizable meat is a high-quality protein source for your canine musculature. Non-specific recipes that use labels like ‘meat’ are harmful. The meat could be from sick or dead animals. Chicken, beef, and turkey are excellent protein sources. Plant-based proteins are not as nutritious as animal-based proteins.
• Include a combination of real fruits and vegetables: Real or fresh fruits and vegetables are the best sources of vitamins and antioxidants to boost immunity and prevent oxidative damage. Fruits and vegetables also enhance flavor. 
• Brand: Well-known brands offer inexpensive dog foods. You will find the right food in common online stores or your local pet food store.

What are the acceptable compromises in budget-friendly dog food?

We all want to save a little, especially during hard times and pet food companies know pet parents prefer high-quality and affordable formulas to expensive ones. The ingredients for dog foods differ, and most premium recipes use high-quality ingredients. These ingredients cost more than the regular ones. Rare protein sources, including bison, are more expensive compared to chicken or beef. The manufacturer is forced to use affordable ingredients for affordable food. But not all cheap ingredients or inputs are great for your dog. Here are the acceptable compromises:

Grains:

Grain-free formulas can be pricier compared to those with grains. However, grain-inclusive formulas provide optimal nutrition. The recent FDA’s link between grain-free formulas and cardiac problems makes it essential to go for grain-inclusive formulas. Whole grains like oatmeal are superior compared to regular ones like wheat. Whole grains provide more fiber and sufficient energy, keeping dogs full for longer. 

Probiotics:

Most premium recipes include probiotics. Probiotics are great for gut and bowel wellness. However, canine probiotics are expensive, and budget-friendly formulas may not include them. Foods that have no probiotics are still great for your dog. You can add dog-friendly yogurt to your dog’s food. Yogurt is rich in natural probiotics. 

Meat meals and by-products:

Whole meat is an excellent premium protein source. However, having lots of whole meat as the key ingredients is costly and may not be possible in budget-friendly formulas. Meat meals have a high concentration of proteins as they are dehydrated meat. Avoid unnamed meat meals as they could be from dead or diseased animals. By-products include feet or innards. These may not appeal to pet parents, but your dog would love them.

Antioxidants, omegas, and other healthy supplements:

antioxidants, omega fatty acids, and supplements like glucosamine are added to premium dog food. They may not be there in inexpensive dog food. You do not need them unless your dog is prone to cancer, has itchy skin, or has joint problems. Inexpensive dog food includes all the essential components that your dog needs for overall growth and development. You may also supplement your dog’s food with blueberries for antioxidants and fish oil for omega-fatty acids.

Not all inexpensive dog food lack the above components. Most are enhanced with these vital ingredients and are still affordable. It is best to select the right food that suits your dog’s unique requirements. Choosing the correct formula limits the risks of frequent health problems resulting from allergies, digestive issues, or obesity. A healthy dog means a happy life for you and your pup.

What are the leading brands for budget-friendly dog foods?

Price is key in the dog food industry. Different brands are using the price to compete with their competitors. They are aware that lower prices are attractive to pet parents. We sampled the best brands that offer cheap nutritious dog foods:

• Blue Buffalo.
• Pedigree
• American Journey.
• Dr. Tim’s.
• Victor Purpose

The brands have unique prices depending on the type of food and ingredients used. The average price for our top 10 budget-friendly dog food is $2.08 per lb, ranging from $0.58 per lb to $2.56 per lb. Life stage and breed are also critical when looking for inexpensive dog food. Puppies, adults, and seniors have different nutritional and health needs and hence need different dog foods. Puppies need high-energy formulas with DHA for their activity life and brain growth.

• Best Overall:  Blue Buffalo Life Protection Low-cost Adult Dry Food – $35.98per 15-lb bag, ($2.39-lb).
• Best Price-Effective: Pedigree Adult Complete Nutrition Economical Dog Food – $25.72 per 44-lb bag ($0.58-lb).
• Best Wet Food: American Journey Canned Budget-Friendly Food – $26.99 per 12.5-oz can, case of 12 ($2.16-oz).
• Best Grain-Free: Victor Purpose Affordable Dog Food – $99.99 per 50-lb bag ($1.99-lb).
• Best Grain-Inclusive: Dr. Tim’s Cheap Dog Food – $94.69 per 40-lb bag, ($2.37-lb).

Note: The prices quoted in this article are as of 26th June 2022.

Let’s look at the best budget-friendly dog foods.

Blue Buffalo Life Protection Low-cost Adult Dry Food

Blue Buffalo Life Protection Dry Food product line by The Blue Buffalo Company Ltd has 21 recipes. The chicken and brown rice formula are among the recipes. Its first manufacturing date is October 1st, 2004. Unlike premium dog foods, this cost-friendly recipe provides tons of benefits at a low cost.

The meal is packed with calcium, phosphorus, glucosamine, and omega 3 and 6 fatty acids for bone, muscle, joint, coat, and skin wellness. Brown rice, barley, and oatmeal are great sources of energy and fiber for physical activity, a healthy weight, and smooth digestion.

Blueberries and cranberries are included as antioxidants to support immunity and prevent oxidative damage while carrots provide beta-carotene for proper vision. The meal is also great for heart health and maintaining a healthy weight with optimal levels of L-carnitine and taurine. Serve it according to your dog’s weight and transition gradually for 14 days. 

• First 5 Ingredients: Deboned Chicken, Brown Rice, Chicken Meal, Barley, Oatmeal.
• Guaranteed Analysis: Crude Protein 24% min, Crude Fat 14% min, Crude Fiber 5% Max.
• Calories: 377 kcal/cup.
• Suitable for which dogs: All breeds.
• Feeding: Optimal feeding amounts may vary depending on your dog’s weight.
• Key Benefit: Chicken is the number one ingredient for healthy muscles and ideal body weight.
• Price: $35.98per 15-lb bag, ($2.39-lb).

Pedigree Adult Complete Nutrition Economical Dog Food 

This is our best price-effective formula. It suits dog owners with a tight budget. The roasted chicken formula by Pedigree is affordable yet contains decent amounts of proteins for muscular appearance. Its initial production date is July 23rd, 2008. The meal is free from added sugars and artificial flavors. 

Despite its affordability, this formula is enhanced with antioxidants, minerals, and vitamins that work together to promote your dog’s overall well-being. Minerals including calcium and phosphorus are best for bone, muscle, and tooth care while vitamins like vitamin E support immunity and prevent inflammation. 

The high fiber blend is great for digestion and maintaining a healthy weight. The delicious flavor of roasted chicken attracts picky eaters, while the crunchy texture supports dental health. The leading ingredient is corn, which may make pet parents view it negatively. However, the formula uses ground whole grain corn. Furthermore, it is crafted with meat and bone meal which may put off some pet parents. But the bone is great for calcium, phosphorus, and glucosamine. Serve according to your dog’s weight.

• First 5 Ingredients: Ground Whole Grain Corn, Meat and Bone Meal, Corn Gluten Meal, Animal Fat, Soybean Meal.
• Guaranteed Analysis: Crude Protein 21% min, Crude Fat 10% min, Crude Fiber 4% Max.
• Calories: 309 kcal/cup.
• Suitable for which dogs: Large breeds.
• Feeding: Optimal feeding amounts may vary depending on your dog’s weight.
• Key Benefit: Omega-6 fatty acids for a healthy coat and skin.
• Price: $25.72 per 44-lb bag, ($0.58-lb).

American Journey Canned Budget-Friendly Dog Food  

The American Journey Canned product line from Chewy has 4 recipes and one of them is the chicken and turkey formula. The first 4 ingredients are protein sources. It is the best choice for budget-conscious pet parents, and it is inexpensive. The high-calorie content is perfect for active dogs and puppies, while the moisture value of 78% keeps your active pup hydrated. Chicken broth boosts the taste to finicky delight dogs.

Although the meal is less expensive compared to other brands, it is free from cheap fillers like wheat, corn, or soy. In addition, it is grain-free and hence safe for dogs with grain allergies or tummy sensitivities. 

The canned recipes are made in the USA using high-quality ingredients from trusted suppliers. Their safety is enhanced by packing in BPA non-intent cans. The chicken and turkey formula is also enhanced with omega 3 and 6 fatty acids for skin and coat well-being. Adults need a daily intake of 1 to 1 ¼ can per 15 lbs of body weight while puppies require up to twice the adult amount.

• First 5 Ingredients: Chicken, Chicken Broth, Turkey, Chicken Liver, Potatoes.
• Guaranteed Analysis: Crude Protein 9% min, Crude Fat 6% min, Crude Fiber 1.5% Max.
• Calories: 425 kcal/12.5-oz can
• Suitable for which dogs: All breeds.
• Feeding: Optimal feeding amounts may vary depending on your dog’s life stage, age, activity levels, and size.
• Key Benefit: Chicken is the number one ingredient for amino acids to repair tissues and build thick muscles.
• Price: $26.99 per 12.5-oz can, case of 12 ($2.16-oz).

Victor Purpose Affordable Dog Food 

Give your dog maximum nutrition at a reasonably affordable price with Victor Purpose formulas by Victor Pet Foods. Victor Purpose Hero Formula is among the 6 dry meals. Its initial production date is 27th April 2013. Beef meal and menhaden fish meal are among the key ingredients to boost muscle and bone power. Peas and sweet potatoes are great fiber sources to improve digestion and lower the risk of unhealthy weight gain.

Linoleic and linolenic acids are best for skin and coat health while DHA supports brain health and improves concentration. The high levels of chondroitin and glucosamine promote joint and cartilage wellness while L-carnitine and taurine strengthen the heart.

Vitamin E and selenium further boost immunity while yucca schidigera reduces stool odor. This diet is crafted in the USA and is devoid of grain, wheat, corn, soy, and gluten. The feedings in the package suit dogs with moderate activity levels. You may adjust the amounts according to your dog’s unique nutritional and health needs. Pregnant and nursing dogs may require up to 4 times the amounts in the packages. 

• First 5 Ingredients: Beef Meal, Sweet Potatoes, Peas, Chicken Fat, Menhaden Fish Meal.
• Guaranteed Analysis: Crude Protein 33% min, Crude Fat 16% min, Crude Fiber 3.8% Max.
• Calories: 384 calories per cup.
• Suitable for which dogs: All breeds.
• Feeding: Optimal feeding amounts may vary depending on your dog’s weight.
• Key Benefit: Promotes superior digestibility and immunity with optimal amounts of probiotics.
• Price: $99.99 per 50-lb bag, ($1.99-lb).

Dr. Tim’s Cheap Dog Food

Dr. Tim’s formulas by Dr. Tim’s Pet Food Co. are high-quality yet affordably priced. The Active Pursuit Formula is among the 8 recipes in this category. Its first production date is May 14th, 2018. This grain-inclusive formula is suitable for athletic or sporting dogs. Chicken is the leading ingredient for premium proteins (30%) to promote muscle growth and development. Calcium and phosphorus complement proteins to support muscle and bone health. 

Whole oat groats are the best sources of fiber and complex carbs to boost digestion, promote a healthy weight, and provide energy for physical activity. Selenium, vitamin E, and vitamin C blend to boost immunity and prevent cellular damage while DHA improves focus and trainability. Omega 3 and 6 fatty acids lower the risk of itchiness and shedding.

This diet is crafted to lessen recovery time and increase endurance levels in active dogs. It further contains patented probiotics for gut and bowel health. Dogs weighing 1-20 pounds need a daily intake of ¼ to 1 cup. The daily amounts increase depending on your dog’s weight.

• First 5 Ingredients: Chicken Meal, Chicken Fat, Brown Rice, Dried Beet Pulp, Whole Oat Groats. 
• Guaranteed Analysis: Crude Protein 30% min, Crude Fat 20% min, Crude Fiber 3% Max.
• Calories: 422 kcal/cup.
• Suitable for which dogs: All breeds.
• Feeding: Optimal feeding amounts may vary depending on your pet’s weight.
• Key Benefit: Optimal levels of DHA and EPA for cognitive functions and mobility.
• Price: $94.69 per 40-lb bag, ($2.37-lb).

Eagle Pack Inexpensive Dry Food 

Eagle Pack’s Pack Dry product line has 7 recipes, and Eagle Pack Original is included in the recipes. Its initial production date is May 1st, 2014. The meat proteins are mainly from chicken and pork meals. The special combination of carbs, proteins, and fats keeps your dog energetic throughout the day.

Consuming this recipe boosts digestive health and immunity with high levels of dietary fiber and antioxidants. It also promotes joint health with optimal amounts of glucosamine. The meal is made in the United States with no corn, wheat, soy, artificial additives, and meat by-products. 

DHA and taurine work together to boost brain power and proper cardiac health while calcium and phosphorus blend to boost bone, tooth, and muscle strength. This meal is grain-inclusive and hence not suitable for dogs with grain allergies. Serve according to your dog’s weight. For example, 5-10 pounds dogs need ½ to 1 cup daily.

• First 5 Ingredients: Chicken Meal, Pork Meal, Ground Brown Rice, Dehulled Barley, Oatmeal.
• Guaranteed Analysis: Crude Protein 26% min, Crude Fat 14% min, Crude Fiber 4% Max.
• Calories:  349 kcal/cup.
• Suitable for which dogs: All breeds.
• Feeding: Optimal feeding amounts may vary depending on your dog’s life stage, weight, and health.
• Key Benefit: High levels of omega 3 and 6 fatty acids for minimal risk of shedding and itchiness.
• Price: $59.75 per 30-lb bag, ($1.99-lb).

Horizon Complete Dry Food 

Horizon Complete Dry Food is another affordable product line. We reviewed their cheap All-Life Stages Formula. Its first production date is July 22nd, 2013. It is the perfect choice for owners on a budget. Chicken meal and chicken are the key sources of proteins for tissue repair and strong muscles. 

High-quality grains, including whole-grain barley, whole grain rye, and whole grain oats, keep your dog full for longer, thus lowering the risk of unhealthy weight gain. This is crucial, especially in senior dogs, as they are prone to weight gain. This formula is formulated to meet AAFCO standards and is safe for your dog. 

The high amounts of calcium, phosphorus, omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids boost bone and skin well-being reducing the risk of early joint issues and skin problems. The daily feeding differs depending on your dog’s weight and life stage. For example, dogs weighing 5 lbs need ⅔ cup in puppyhood, ½ cup in adulthood, and ⅓ cup during the senior stage. 

• First 5 Ingredients: Chicken Meal, Whole Grain Barley, Whole Grain Rye, Chicken, Whole Grain Oats. 
• Guaranteed Analysis: Crude Protein 26% min, Crude Fat 14% min, Crude Fiber 4% Max.
• Calories:  415 kcal/cup.
• Suitable for which dogs: All breeds.
• Feeding: Optimal feeding amounts may vary depending on your dog’s life stage and weight.
• Key Benefit: Low glycemic index to regulate blood sugar levels, prevent diseases, and support a healthy weight.
• Price: $21.99per 8.8-lb bag, ($2.49-lb).

Eukanuba Dry Food 

Another price-effective brand is the Eukanuba Dry Food by Royal Canin. Their small bites formula won’t break your budget. The initial production date for this recipe is June 12th, 2013. Chicken is the number one ingredient from amino acids to promote lean muscle mass and energy. 

DHA and vitamin E work together to support brain power and protect dogs against inflammation while the optimal levels of fats and carbs provide sufficient energy for your active dog. The 3D Denta Defense supports dental health by minimizing tartar and plaque build-up. 

The natural fiber and prebiotic blend support gut and bowel wellness while vitamin B6 supports the nervous and immune systems. The recipe comes in a small kibble for your dog’s small muzzle. Introduce Eukanuba progressively over 4 days. Start with 25% of Eukanuba and slowly increase the percentage until Eukanuba is your dog’s main meal. Feed your dog at the same time each day to create a healthy routine. 

• First 5 Ingredients: Chicken, Chicken By-Product Meal, Corn, Wheat, Chicken Fat.
• Guaranteed Analysis: Crude Protein 25% min, Crude Fat 16% min, Crude Fiber 3.8% Max.
• Calories: 371 kcal/cup.
• Suitable for which dogs: Extra small, toy, and small breeds.
• Feeding: Optimal feeding amounts may vary depending on your dog’s poundage.
• Key Benefit: Optimal levels of glucosamine and chondroitin for strong joints and minimal risks of patellar luxation.
• Price: $39.49 per 16-lb bag, ($2.47-lb).

Merrick Cheap and Cheerful Dry Food

Another high-quality yet affordable dog food is Merrick Dry Food by Merrick. Merrick Classic formula with real chicken is among the dry recipes. Its initial production date is May 21st, 2016. It is crafted with wholesome grains and high-value ingredients for maximum nutritional benefits. Brown rice and barley are complex carbs and fiber sources for energy, lower risks of obesity, and proper digestion.

The high levels of chondroitin, glucosamine, and omegas are great for joint and skin wellness while vitamin A from carrots supports eye well-being and limits the risk of skin problems. This recipe is suitable for sensitive dogs because it lacks wheat, corn, soy, or peas. However, it is grain-inclusive and may not be the correct choice for dogs with grain allergies. 

This formula includes taurine for cardiac health and yucca schidigera to boost digestion and lower stool odor. Factors like age and weight dictate the daily amounts to serve. For example, dogs weighing 15 pounds need 1 ¼ cups while those weighing 20 pounds require 1 ½ cups. You should divide the number of cups by the number of times you feed your dog. Ensure there is clean water that dogs can easily access. Transition your dog gradually over 5-7 days.

• First 5 Ingredients: Deboned Chicken, Chicken Meal, Brown Rice, Barley, Turkey Meal.
• Guaranteed Analysis: Crude Protein 26% min, Crude Fat 16% min, Crude Fiber 3.5% Max.
• Calories:  393 kcal/cup.
• Suitable for which dogs: All breeds.
• Feeding: Optimal feeding amounts may vary depending on your dog’s age, activity levels, and size.
• Key Benefit: Deboned chicken is the number one ingredient for thick muscles.
• Price: $64.98 per 25-lb bag, ($2.56-lb).

Hill’s Science Diet Adult Advanced Fitness Dry Food

Hills Science Advanced Fitness formula by Hill’s Pet Nutrition is also included in our budget-friendly recipes. The meal is crafted with wholesome grains, real fruits and vegetables, and high-quality protein sources for maximum nutrition at a lower price compared to other dry formulas.

Chicken is the leading ingredient for solid muscles, energy, and flavor. The high fiber content from complex sources, including cracked barley and whole-grain sorghum, supports fitness and boosts digestion. Real fruits and vegetables including apples, blueberries, broccoli, and green peas provide vitamins to boost immunity and digestion. However, the fruits and vegetables are at the end of the ingredient list.

Omega-6 fatty acids limit the frequency of shedding and skin problems while taurine is great for heart health. Beta-carotene is important for proper eyesight and skin wellness. The daily intake varies according to your dog’s weight with dogs weighing 5 pounds requiring ⅝ cups. The intake increases with an increase in weight. You may adjust these amounts to suit your dog’s unique needs. A gradual transition period of 5-7 days is perfect.

• First 5 Ingredients: Chicken, Cracked Pearled Barley, Whole Grain Wheat, Whole Grain Corn, Whole Grain Sorghum. 
• Guaranteed Analysis: Crude Protein 20% min, Crude Fat 11.5% min, Crude Fiber 4% Max.
• Calories: 363 kcal/ cup.
• Suitable for which dogs: Extra small, toy, and small breeds.
• Feeding: Optimal feeding amounts may vary depending on your dog’s poundage.
• Key Benefit: Vitamins C and E blend with clinically proven antioxidants to boost immunity.
• Price: $61.99  per 35-lb bag, ($1.77-lb).

What facts should you know about the best budget-friendly dog food?    

Budget-friendly dog food comes in handy during hard economic times. Your dog can still enjoy the best nutrition without putting a dent in your pocket. Here are the facts to know about the best inexpensive dog foods:

• Age, activity level, and breed: younger dogs have different nutritional needs than their older counterparts. Activity level also dictates the food to go for. Highly active dogs need more calories than less active dogs. In addition, large and small breeds have different needs.
• Price and quality: Although you are looking for low-priced meals, never compromise on quality as it would negatively affect your dog’s health.
• Health complications: Most budget-friendly recipes are crafted for healthy dogs. Dogs with health problems, sensitivities, or allergies need a unique diet tailored to their requirements.
• Wet and dry food: Dry dog foods are cheaper than wet foods. Dry foods have a longer lifespan than wet foods. In addition, wet formulas are tasty, making dogs consume them faster. Inexpensive dog food has lots of water which dilutes the nutrients.

What are the ingredients to avoid in the best budget-friendly foods?

You should carefully read the label to know the ingredients used to craft the food. Listed are the ingredients to avoid:

• Animal by-products: Animal by-products have no nutritional value. Moreover, they can be sourced from dead or diseased animals. 
• Carrageenan: This is a thickener used in wet dog foods to maintain consistency. Frequent consumption can lead to intense gastrointestinal problems and even cancer.
• Propylene glycol: It is an artificial preservative used to enhance texture. Although it is less harmful to dogs than cats, it is best to avoid it.
• BHA and BHT: Avoid foods with these harmful artificial additives. They prolong the food’s shelf-life but cause liver problems in dogs.
• Corn syrup: It is also an artificial preservative that leads to a spike in blood sugar levels and increases the probability of obesity. It can also lead to your dog developing a sweet tooth.
• Monosodium glutamate: This artificial preservative is used to enhance flavor. However, it is a common allergen in dogs.

Do dogs like the taste of budget-friendly dog food? 

Yes, dogs like the taste of budget-friendly dog food. Most inexpensive dog foods are crafted using ingredients like real chicken, fruits, and vegetables which add flavor. In addition, some budget-friendly formulas have a crunchy texture that attracts all dogs, including picky eaters. 

What is the nutritional value of budget-friendly dog foods?

Proteins are key in dog food as they support muscle power and tissue repair. Real meat provides high-quality proteins. A protein content ranging from 18-32% is perfect for budget-friendly dog foods. Real chicken or beef are the main protein sources in cost-effective dog food. The protein sources should be identifiable.

Carbs and fiber are also important in the best price-effective dog foods. Complex grains including pearled barley and brown rice are excellent sources of high-quality fiber and carbs. For non-grains foods, look out for ingredients like sweet potatoes. The carb content should be limited to minimize the risk of obesity.

Essential vitamins and minerals promote immunity, digestive, and overall wellness. They include vitamins A, C, E and important minerals like calcium and phosphorus.

What are the budget-friendly dog foods to mix with raw dog food? 

Mixing dry foods with raw foods enhances the nutrient composition and flavor. In addition, raw foods are appealing to delight even the finicky eaters.

• Diamond Naturals Lamb Meal & Rice Dry Food: This affordable formula goes well with raw diets, including fresh fruits and vegetables. The meal uses high-quality ingredients, yet it is affordable.  A 40-lb bag costs $40.99.

What are the budget-friendly dog foods for Puppies? 

Puppies are still growing and need lots of proteins, moderate fat, carbs, and other essential nutrients for healthy growth.

• Blue Buffalo Life Protection Formula Puppy Dry Food: this recipe has calcium and phosphorus for strong bones, DHA and ARA for cognitive wellness, and powerful antioxidants to support immunity. All these come at an affordable price, as a 1-lb bag costs $2.03.

What are the brands for budget-friendly dog foods? 

Here are the brands that have affordable dog foods:

• Blue Buffalo
• Merrick Classic Healthy Grains.
• Diamond Naturals.
• Hill’s Science Diet.
• Pedigree.
• Eukanuba.
• Horizon Complete.
• Eagle Pack.
• Victor Purpose.
• American Journey.

What are the best budget-friendly dog foods for dogs with allergies?

The best budget-friendly dog foods for dogs with allergies are those free from common allergens, including wheat, corn, and soy. However, most cheap foods include them in their recipes.

• Purina Pro Plan Sensitive Skin & Stomach Adult Rice Recipe Dry Food: One lb costs $2.03, making it the right choice for budget-conscious pet parents. It is easily digestible and has no corn, wheat, or soy.

What are the best budget-friendly dog foods for french bulldogs? 

French Bulldogs are medium-breed dogs that need a high-protein diet with moderate fat and essential nutrients like probiotics and omega-fatty acids.

• Rachel Ray Nutrish Chicken & Veggies Dry Food: This cheap formula is best for your French Bulldog as it has a fat-to-protein ratio of approximately 54%. A 1-lb bag costs $1.33.

What are the best budget-friendly dog foods for small-sized dogs?

Small-sized dogs have a fast metabolism and need calorie-dense formulas. In addition, they are prone to patellar luxation and need joint-friendly recipes.

• Taste of the Wild Small Breed Appalachian Valley Dry Food: An lb costs $1.99, making it an excellent budget-friendly choice. Venison is the leading ingredient for muscle power.

What are the best budget-friendly dog foods for medium-sized dogs?

Medium-sized dogs, including Border Collies and Beagles, need a balanced meal that suits their nutritional needs.

• Victor Select Grain-Free Yukon River Dry Food: This meal includes high-quality ingredients, including real fish as the leading ingredient for strong muscles, sufficient energy, and ideal body weight. An lb goes for $2.67.

What are the best budget-friendly dog foods for large dogs?

Choosing the right formula for large dogs is best since going for the wrong option could lead to joint problems, including hip dysplasia. 

• Holistic Select Adult Health Large & Giant Breeds Dry Food: it is packed with high levels of chondroitin and glucosamine for strong joints. Calcium and phosphorus also boost bone and muscle health. An lb goes for $2.59.

What are the best budget-friendly dog foods for itchy skin?

Itchy skin is common in dogs, and diet plays a key role in preventing or minimizing its impact. Budget-friendly formulas for itchy skin are those with fewer ingredients and rich in omegas.

• Taste of the Wild Grain-Free High Prairie Dry Food: A one lb bag costs $2.57. This recipe is perfect for itchy skin as it is rich in omega 3 and 6 fatty acids to moisturize the skin. 

What are the best chicken-free budget-friendly dog foods?

Some dogs have chicken intolerance and need a different protein source like beef, bison, rabbit, or turkey.

• Gentle Giants Salmon Canine Health dry Food: Salmon Meal is the number one ingredient, and it does not include chicken in its ingredient list. One pound costs $2.06.

What is the best budget-friendly dog food with glucosamine?

Glucosamine supports joint health by lowering the risk of cartilage inflammation. Large dogs are prone to hip and joint problems, and glucosamine is the best additive to their food.

• Nutro Natural Choice Chicken & Brown Rice Senior Dry Food: A one-pound bag goes for $1.57. This diet has high levels of glucosamine for your large or senior dog. Calcium and chondroitin sulfate also boost cartilage health.

What are the best budget-friendly dog foods with pumpkins?

Pumpkin is an excellent source of fiber for digestion. It is also best for proper eyesight.

• Nature’s Recipe Chicken, Sweet Potato, & Pumpkin Grain-Free Dry Food: Chicken is the number one ingredient to build your dog’s muscles, while pumpkin ensures regular bowel movements. Taurine is responsible for heart function. A pound costs $1.92.

What are the best budget-friendly dog foods for dogs with pancreatitis?

Dogs with pancreatitis need low-fat formulas to avoid overworking the pancreas. 

• American Journey Chicken & Sweet Potato Healthy Weight Grain-Free Dry Food: one pound costs $2.08 yet comes with essential nutrients for your dog. It contains fewer calories to maintain a healthy weight. Dietary fiber also supports weight loss.

What are the best budget-friendly dog foods for dogs with sensitive stomachs? 

Tummy sensitivities are also common in dogs. Sensitive dogs need a diet free from common triggers like wheat and artificial preservatives.

• Hill’s Science Diet Sensitive Stomach & Skin Adult Dry Food: Explicitly designed for sensitive tummies, this affordable recipe features beet pulp for prebiotic fiber for digestive and gut health. A 1-lb bag costs $2.29.

What are the best budget-friendly dog foods for picky eater dogs?

Picky eater dogs are hard to please. Richly-flavored formulas are great for those selective feeders. 

• Solid Gold Sensitive Stomach Leaping Waters Grain-FreeSalmon & Vegetable Dry Food: a one lb bag costs $1.38, making it an excellent selection for price-sensitive pet parents. Salmon and real fruits and vegetables enhance flavor to delight picky dogs.

Is Budget-Friendly Dog Food Worth It?

Budget-friendly dog food offers pet parents an opportunity to provide premium nutrition to their furry canine friends at an affordable price. Do not compromise quality when selecting the cheapest meals for your dog. Low-quality dog food is harmful in the long run as it negatively impacts your dog’s health. 

Our review provides an extensive list of the best inexpensive formulas. You can go for our best overall recipe Blue Buffalo Life Protection Low-cost Adult Dry Dog Food, or select other formulas, including Pedigree Adult Complete Nutrition Economical Dog Food and the American Journey Canned Budget-Friendly Dog Food. Always consult the vet before introducing new food to your dog.