10 Best Dog Foods for Working Dogs (Practical Task Dogs)

What are the best dog foods for working dogs?

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

Working dogs are kept to perform various tasks, unlike pets or companion dogs. The tasks range from search and rescue to herding. Some of these tasks may require specialized training. Such tasks include sniffing explosives, patrolling base camps, and search and rescue operations. Military working dogs mainly perform these activities. 

Common characteristics of working dogs include high levels of alertness, watchfulness, intelligence, and strength. These characteristics call for a high-quality diet that ensures working dogs maintain them. A balanced, high protein, high fat, and calorie-dense diet is essential. A proper diet fuels their stamina to carry out their tasks. 

Getting the right formula can be challenging since many considerations like your dog’s size and specific activities it carries out should be factored in. The ever-increasing dog food companies have resulted in various recipes to choose from. This complicates matters more. It makes it hard to know the best diet for your working dog. We have made it easier by giving you the best 10 formulas for your energetic pup. 

Working Dog Nutritional Needs

Working dogs, unlike companion dogs, have unique nutritional needs. Carrying out various tasks involves a lot of energy, and the right foods must supply sufficient fuel for high activity. Below are the properties of the best formulas for energetic dogs:

Protein

Protein is key in any dog food. Working dogs, however, need high amounts of proteins for strong muscles and increased vitality. According to AAFCO, a regular dog needs approximately 18% protein.

Working dogs need more as they are physically engaged. A 28% or higher protein content provides enough fuel for the muscles. For wet recipes, a 7% protein value is great. Avoid ambiguous labels as you may not know the type of meat used for proteins. Specific naming assures you of the product’s safety. 

Sufficient calories and fats

These are essential to keep your working dog active. Fats are excellent energy sources. Working dogs need approximately 18-20% fat in dry foods and 5% in canned formulas. The more animal-based fat sources in a recipe the better for your working dog.

Look for the calorie content of the food. A high-calorie food is best for energetic pups. Carbs are also the best for energy. However, working dogs need complex carb sources to keep them full for longer. These include grains like barley and quinoa in grain-inclusive formulas and sweet potatoes in grain-free options.

Dog food that meets your dog’s dietary needs is an excellent choice for working dogs. Ensure the meal is complete and balanced as defined by AAFCO. Such foods contain all the essential requirements your dog needs for healthy growth. 

Essential nutrients

They include omega fatty acids, antioxidants, probiotics, prebiotics, and fiber to support your dog’s immune, digestive, skin, and coat health for more vitality. Vitamins like vitamins C and E are also important for immunity and cognitive wellness, while minerals like calcium and phosphorus strengthen the bones for more strength to carry out the daily tasks. 

Healthy supplements

They include chondroitin and glucosamine to support joint health. Strong joints are vital as they support your dog’s mobility and boost physical performance. 

Selecting the right formula with the above properties is key as it minimizes the risk of allergies, digestive issues, and unhealthy weight gain. This contributes to a longer life of bliss for you and your dog.

Types of working dogs?

Working dogs have natural instincts that need to be honed with extensive training for maximum benefit to the owner. Various tasks need unique skills for peak performance. Most working dogs were traditionally herding or guarding dogs. Here’s  a list of the types of working dogs and the specific tasks they perform:

Military dogs

They go through basic training for specialized activities. The activities include search and rescue operations and sniffing explosives. Besides diet, the cost of training for military dogs is a key factor to consider. 

Basic training is less expensive compared to specialized training. For basic skills, you may part with approximately $20,000-40,000.   Specialized skills including bomb detection can cost as high as $150,000. 

German Shepherds are the most commonly used military dogs. Their intuition, high levels of intelligence, and temperament make them the best selection for specialized training. Smaller dogs including Dutch Shepherd and Belgian Malinois are also great for military work.

Therapy dogs

They are the best for assisting humans with mental or physical disabilities. Seeing-eye guide dogs and those that guide the deaf provide mobility services. Therapy dogs can be given specialized training that matches their guardian needs. 

For example, dogs with a heightened sense of smell can be trained to detect an onset of a diabetic attack or allergic reaction. Although no specific dog breed is known as a therapy dog, dogs with high energy levels, soft personalities, increased intelligence levels, and heightened desire to please fit perfectly as therapy dogs. 

A dog that meets these descriptions is the giant but gentle Labrador Retriever. Golden Retrievers also fit the bill. Goldador, a hybrid of these two breeds, perfectly suits the role of a service or therapy pup.

Herding dogs 

They have been there since time immemorial. Herding dogs’ existence can be traced as far as 10,000 years ago. Herding dogs have varied personalities, from small breeds like Welsh Corgi to their large counterparts like Bercher Picard. 

However, there are some common attributes they possess. These include double coats to resist rain, high energy levels for stamina, agility and flexibility to act fast, high intelligence to perceive unspoken cues, and high dependability to be trusted with taking care of other animals. A well-known dog breed perfect for herding is the Australian Shepherd.

Search and rescue dogs 

They have a history that dates back to the 19th century when dogs like Saint Bernard were used in mountain rescues. A heightened sense of smell is essential for search and rescue dogs as it helps find the target. 

Dogs like Basset hounds, Beagles, and Bloodhounds are best for search and rescue operations. Specialized search and rescue dogs need exceptional skills. For example, those that deal with disasters need unique intelligence and communication skills while dogs dealing with risky abductions need a high sense of focus and diligence. A minimum of 600 hours of training is necessary for search and rescue pups.

Guard dogs 

They are tasked with protecting livestock and even family members. The best guard dog can easily detect threats and react fast but cautiously. Large dogs, including Mastiffs and Rottweilers, are known for their guarding abilities. 

These dogs, however, are no longer famous as guard dogs. Size may not be important as small dogs like Jack Russel Terriers and Chihuahuas are perfect guard dogs. A well-known breed for guarding is the Doberman Pinscher. 

Drafting dogs 

Drafting dogs perform more physically demanding tasks than other working dogs. They pull carts and sleds. They should, therefore, be physically strong and well-built. Bernese Mountain Dogs and Rottweilers were initially used as draft dogs. 

Today, most dogs are used as sled dogs. They include the Alaskan Malamute and Siberian Husky as they have strong bodies and thick coats that can withstand chilly conditions. These tasks, however, are considered recreational activities today. 

What are the top 5 brands for the best dog food for working dogs?

Listed are the brands for the best formulas for working dogs:

• Bully Max
• Diamond Naturals
• Wellness
• Grandma Lucy
• Solid Gold

Your dog’s breed and life stage are key considerations when purchasing the right food for working dogs. Senior dogs’ nutritional needs differ from those of younger dogs. Additionally, small dogs’ nutritional needs differ from those of large dogs.

The average price for our top 10 formulas is $3.69 per pound, ranging from $1.07 to $7.99 per pound. The weights range from 15 to 40 pounds. The canned formula costs $3.72 per oz. Here’s our “tops” list:

• Best Overall: Bully Max High-Performance Super Premium Dry Dog Food – $59.99 per 15-lb bag ($3.99-lb).  
• Best Price-Effective: Diamond Naturals Dry Food for Adult Dog, Beef, and Rice — $42.99 per 40-lb bag ($1.07-lb).  
• Best Wet Formula:  Wellness Natural Pet Food CORE Natural Wet Grain-Free Canned Dog Food – $46.56 per 12.5-oz case of 12 ($3.72-oz).  
• Best Freeze-Dried: Grandma Lucy’s PUREformance Freeze-Dried Dog Food — $79.99per10-lb bag ($7.99-lb).  
• Best High-Protein Formula: Solid Gold high-protein Dry Dog Food –  $57.99 per 24-lb bag ($2.42-lb).  

Note: The prices in this article are as of July 6th, 2022.

Let’s dive in.

Bully Max High-Performance Super Premium Dry Dog Food

Support your dog’s energy needs with this high-fat, high-calorie formula from Bully Max. Its initial production date is May 17th, 2016. The meals support muscle power and give your dog a healthy weight with premium proteins. This formula uses natural ingredients that give it a meaty flavor to massage your dog’s instincts. 

This recipe is safe for your dog as it contains no artificial additives or fillers like corn and wheat. Its safety is further enhanced as it is crafted in the USA. You can trust its benefits for your working dog as the dog food advisor highly rates this formula. The high-quality ingredients used have earned this meal a 5-star rating.

Your dog will consume fewer amounts of this recipe as it is nutrient-dense. This saves you money since the formula lasts longer. Brown rice is a healthy source of complex carbs for improved energy levels, digestion, and weight. Complex carbs make dogs feel full for longer periods and thus end up consuming less. This minimizes the risk of obesity. A healthy weight ensures improved flexibility and agility. 

• First 5 Ingredients: Chicken Meal, Brown Rice, Chicken Fat, Dried Plain Beet Pulp, Ground Sorghum.
• Guaranteed Analysis: Crude Protein 30% min, Crude Fat 20% min.
• Calories: 535 kcal/cup
• Suitable for which dogs: All breeds.
• Feeding: Optimal feeding amounts may vary depending on your dog’s weight.
• Key Benefit:  High-calorie content to support physical activity and improve performance.
• Price: $59.99 per 15-lb bag ($3.99-lb).  

Diamond Naturals Dry Food for Adult Dog, Beef, and Rice

Diamond Pet Foods, Inc produces high-quality recipes at an affordable price. This formula is another excellent option for your energetic dog. It features real beef protein as the leading ingredient for strong bones and lean muscles. Strong bones and muscles are vital since working dogs engage in tedious activities. This meal has an initial manufacturing date of May 13th, 2009. 

This formula includes omega fatty acids for skin and coat wellness. Vitamin A further adds to your dog’s shine. It also uses superfoods like blueberries for antioxidants and vitamins that promote immunity. A strong immune system ensures your working dog’s health is at its peak. This further enhances performance. Zinc, selenium, and vitamin E are also the best immune boosters. 

Probiotics and prebiotics are essential for healthy digestion and the gut. Proper eyesight is essential for your working dog and this meal is great as it has beta-carotene. Your sensitive working dog can safely enjoy this meal as it is devoid of corn, wheat, or soy protein. It includes grains and may not be the right selection for dogs with grain allergies. 

• First 5 Ingredients: Beef meal, Grain Sorghum, Ground White Rice, Dried Yeast, Egg Product.
• Guaranteed Analysis: Crude Protein 25% min, Crude Fat 15% min, Crude Fiber 3.5% Max.
• Calories: 399 kcal/cup
• Suitable for which dogs: All breeds.
• Feeding: Optimal feeding amounts may vary depending on your dog’s poundage.
• Key Benefit: Optimal levels of chondroitin and glucosamine for strong joints to support physical activity.
• Price: $42.99 per 40-lb bag ($1.07-lb).  

Wellness Natural Pet Food CORE Natural Wet Grain-Free Canned Dog Food 

Formulated for adult dogs, this formula from Wellness boosts high-quality ingredients for overall growth and well-being. It features chicken and turkey as the first two ingredients for premium proteins to support muscle power. 

It is crafted with proprietary combinations of nutritional supplements and botanicals for peak nutrition. The variety of flavors from a blend of premium protein sources gives this diet a rich taste to delight even your picky eater dog. 

Wellness core recipes are made by nutritionists, veterinarians, and animal lovers to ensure your pup gets the best it deserves. Superfoods including carrots, broccoli, kale, blueberries, and apples are fountains of antioxidants, fiber, and vitamins to promote immunity, digestion, and overall wellness. It contains no grains, gluten, pea, wheat, soy, or corn making it a great choice for sensitive dogs and those with grain allergies. Serve it as a topper, a mixer, or a standalone meal. 

• First 5 Ingredients: Chicken, Turkey, Chicken Broth, Chicken Liver, Turkey Liver.
• Guaranteed Analysis: Crude Protein 12% min, Crude Fat 8% min, Crude Fiber 0.5% Max.
• Calories: 446 kcal/can.
• Suitable for which dogs: All breeds.
• Feeding: Optimal feeding amounts may vary depending on your dog’s weight.
• Key Benefit: High moisture content boosts palatability, digestion, and hydration.
• Price: $46.56 per 12.5-oz, case of 12 ($3.72-oz).  

Grandma Lucy’s PUREformance Freeze-Dried Dog Food 

This is the best selection if you are looking for an energy-dense formula with high-quality proteins. Every ingredient has an important function in your dog’s body. These ingredients are sourced from trusted suppliers. 

Chickpeas are a premium source of fiber and it is low-glycemic. It releases energy slowly into the body for consistent performance. This is great for working dogs as it keeps them active throughout the day. Carrots and pumpkins are rich in beta-carotene for healthy vision. 

Calcium and phosphorus support bone, tooth, and muscle fitness to support activity levels in working dogs. This freeze-dried formula has fewer ingredients and is free from grains, corn, wheat, or soy making it an excellent option for dogs with sensitivities and allergies. You are assured of high-quality dog food as this formula is made in the USA and approved by USDA. 

It has a shelf life of up to 18 months, so you do not need to purchase it frequently. This saves time and money. Add warm water for a fresh meal. 

• First 5 Ingredients: USDA Chicken, Chickpeas, Flax, Carrots, Celery. 
• Guaranteed Analysis: Crude Protein 34% min, Crude Fat 14% min, Crude Fiber 6.5% Max.
• Calories: 492 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 repairing tissues and building thick muscles.
• Price: $79.99per10-lb bag ($7.99-lb).  

Solid Gold high-protein Dry Dog Food 

A solid body ensures high activity levels. Solid Gold, LLC recipe is a unique option for your working dog. It is high in proteins, fats, and calories essential to your dog’s life. This diet has been on the market since November 6th, 2014, and has gained popularity among pet parents.

Strong immunity is key for your working dog, and Solid Gold High-Protein has lots of antioxidants, vitamin C, and vitamin E to promote immunity. It is also rich in omega 3 and 6 fatty acids to keep the coat and skin in top form. DHA promotes cognitive fitness by boosting your dog’s memory and focus. These characteristics are vital when it comes to working dogs. 

Prebiotics and probiotics are best for gut and bowel well-being. The high-quality fiber compliments these for smooth digestion. Do not switch to Solid Gold abruptly. Start with 25% of this meal in the first 2-3 days, then gradually increase the amongst over a 5-7 day period. Your working dog deserves lifelong health and longevity, and the Solid Gold High-Protein Formula is the best selection. 

• First 5 Ingredients: Beef, Ocean Fish Meal, Pea Protein, Potatoes, Dried Eggs.
• Guaranteed Analysis: Crude Protein 41% min, Crude Fat 18% min, Crude Fiber 4% Max.
• Calories: 415 kcal/cup
• Suitable for which dogs: All breeds.
• Feeding: Optimal feeding amounts may vary with activity levels, health, size, and weight.
• Key Benefit: Beef is the number one ingredient for amino acids to build solid muscles.
• Price: $57.99 per 24-lb bag ($2.42-lb).  

Eukanuba Premium Active Dog Food 

Eukanuba premium active Formula by Royal Canin is an attractive selection for working dogs. This recipe is created specifically for working, tracking, and sporting dogs. It fuels performance and promotes endurance. It ensures long and sustained activity. This formula has not been in the market for long, but dogs can’t get enough of it. Its initial manufacturing date is July 15th, 2020.

This antioxidant-rich formula is crafted to support post-exercise recovery in working dogs. Animal-based proteins provide amino acids to support and oxygenate the muscles for longer periods of physical activity. Chondroitin sulfate and glucosamine are important for strong joints to boost performance.

A healthy digestive system means a healthy working dog. Thanks to the enhanced blend of fiber and prebiotics, your active dog can have a happy digestive system.  Proper eyesight is also important for high-performance levels, and this diet has beta-carotene for vision wellness. Go for a meal that unleashes the potential in your dog resulting in peak performance.

• First 5 Ingredients: Chicken By-Product Meal, Corn, Brewers Rice, Chicken Fat, Wheat Gluten.
• Guaranteed Analysis: Crude Protein 30% min, Crude Fat 20% min, Crude Fiber 4.1% Max.
• Calories: 447 kcal/cup
• Suitable for which dogs: All breeds.
• Feeding: Optimal feeding amounts may vary depending on your dog’s weight.
• Key Benefit: High levels of DHA and EPA to power your dog’s brain and support mobility. 
• Price: $76.99 per 28-lb bag ($2.75-lb).  

Victor Dog Food Classic – Hi-Pro Plus Dry Dog Food

Victor Dog Food High-pro Formula from Mid America Pet Food LLC  is formulated for sporting dogs and those with elevated physical needs. This makes it a great option for your working dog. This formula has been in the market since April 27th, 2013. The meal comprises 88% meat proteins from beef, pork, and chicken meals. Proteins fuel the muscle for improved performance. They also give dogs an ideal weight to improve agility and flexibility.

It is suitable for all life stages and provides sustained energy for your working pup. Working dogs need high endurance levels, and a strong heart is mandatory. This formula comes in handy with the increased amounts of taurine and L-carnitine that promote cardiac health. Selenium and vitamin E are powerful antioxidants that speed up the recovery process. 

Gluten-free grains, including grain sorghum, provide complex carbs and high-quality fiber to boost stamina and digestive wellness. A gradual transition of 1 week to 10 days minimizes the risk of tummy upsets and allergies. Start with 25% of Victor and slowly increase the portions until your dog’s digestive system fully adapts.

• First 5 Ingredients: Beef Meal, Grain Sorghum, Chicken Fat, Pork Meal, Chicken Meal.
• Guaranteed Analysis: Crude Protein 30% min, Crude Fat 20% min, Crude Fiber 3.8% Max.
• Calories: 406 kcal/cup
• Suitable for which dogs: Small and Medium Breeds.
• Feeding: Optimal feeding amounts may vary with weight.
• Key Benefit: Linoleic and linolenic acids blend to give your dog a bright coat and soft skin.
• Price: $28.49 per 15-lb bag ($1.89-lb).  

Sportdogfood Elite Grain-Free Dry Dog Food 

This is another excellent choice for working dogs. The formula is a Sport Dog Food product and was first introduced on the market on April 1st, 2019. This recipe features Whitefish as the leading ingredient for thick muscles that support physical activity. It is free from legumes and hence suitable for dogs with specific allergies. It is also devoid of soy, wheat, or corn. 

Each cup in this formula contains 490 calories that are important for your working dog. The high protein and fat values also work together for sustained energy and healthy weight. This formula ensures better absorption of essential nutrients for maximum health and nutritional needs. The optimal levels of EPA and DHA support mobility and brain development.

Start with the amounts indicated on the package then gradually adjust them to meet your working dog’s specific needs. Switch gradually over a 10-14 day period. This lowers the probability of a negative reaction. 

• First 5 Ingredients: Whitefish Meal, Chicken Fat, Dried Sweet Potato, Cassava Root, Coconut Meal.
• Guaranteed Analysis: Crude Protein 27% min, Crude Fat 16% min, Crude Fiber 3.9% Max.
• Calories: 490 kcal/cup
• Suitable for which dogs: Medium and large breeds. 
• Feeding: Optimal feeding amounts may vary depending on weight.
• Key Benefit: Includes a healthy helping of taurine for a strong heart to promote peak performance.
• Price: $ 78.95 per 30-lb bag ($2.63-lb).  

Annamaet Original Ultra Formula Dry Dog Food

With a protein content of 32%, this premium formula from Annamaet Petfoods is an excellent choice for working dogs. The high protein value supports muscle power and energy levels. This recipe has been on the market since May 13th, 2009.  

The high levels of DHA power your dog’s brain for increased intelligence which is key in working fidos. Working dogs, especially sled dogs need strong and healthy skin and this meal is rich in omega 3 and 6 fatty acids. 

L-carnitine is responsible for fat metabolism for a healthy weight and strong heart. Working dogs need these two characteristics since a healthy heart keeps them going while a healthy weight supports flexibility and agility levels.

Brown rice and millet supply high-quality fiber and carbs for smooth digestion and stamina. This product is safe for your dog. Probiotics and prebiotics are important for a healthy gut.

Annamaet formulas are made in the US with ingredients from trusted suppliers. A 7-10 day transition minimizes the probability of digestive problems. Sensitive dogs may need up to 14 days.

• First 5 Ingredients: Chicken Meal, Brown Rice, Chicken Fat, Whole Dry Eggs, Herring Meal.
• Guaranteed Analysis: Crude Protein 32% min, Crude Fat 20% min, Crude Fiber 3% Max.
• Calories: 480 kcal/cup
• Suitable for which dogs: All breeds.
• Feeding: Optimal feeding amounts may vary depending on your dog’s age and activity levels.
• Key Benefit: High fat and calorie content to provide sufficient energy for your working dog.
• Price: $72.99 per 25-lb bag ($2.92-lb).  

Taste Of The Wild High Prairie Dry Dog Food

The inner wolf within your dog craves its ancestral wild food and the Taste of the Wild formulas by Diamond Pet Foods are the best to massage your pup’s instincts. They are crafted to mimic wild dogs that tingle the taste buds. This specific formula has been in the market since December 11th, 2018.

The recipe features water buffalo, lamb meal, and chicken meal as the leading ingredients for powerful muscles and thick bones. Sweet potatoes and peas provide dietary fiber for smooth digestion while blueberries and raspberries provide antioxidants for immunity. Other ingredients like yucca schidigera are important for proper digestion and reduced stool odor. 

Taurine supports the heart and improves endurance levels. Omega 3 and 6 fatty acids keep the skin healthy. Serve according to the instructions on the package. You may adjust the amounts to suit your dog’s unique needs. Sensitive dogs and those with grain allergies can safely consume the Taste of the Wild as it is free from grain, gluten, wheat, corn, or artificial additives.

• First 5 Ingredients: Water Buffalo, Lamb Meal, Chicken Meal, Sweet Potatoes, Peas.
• Guaranteed Analysis: Crude Protein 32% min, Crude Fat 18% min, Crude Fiber 4% Max.
• Calories: 422 kcal/cup
• Suitable for which dogs: All breeds.
• Feeding: Optimal feeding amounts may vary with your dog’s weight.
• Key Benefit: High levels of vitamin E and selenium to protect your working dog against free radicals.
• Price: $58.99 per 28-lb bag ($2.11-lb).  

What facts should you know about dog foods for working dogs? 

Satisfying the nutritional and health needs of your working dog is vital as it ensures your dog is in the best shape. It also provides sufficient energy and essential nutrients that boost physical activity. Here are other significant facts about the best dog foods for working dogs:

• It is crucial to consult the vet before introducing new foods to your dog’s diet. The vet will carry out tests to rule out any allergies or sensitivities. After getting a nod from the vet, do not rush the process; introduce the foods gradually, starting with small amounts of the new food. This may take time, but it minimizes the risks of digestive problems.
• Read the labels carefully. The label has vital information about the ingredients and nutritional value of the food. This saves you from purchasing the wrong diet and exposing your dog to other health problems.
• Do not feed your dog immediately before or after an exercise or training. Waiting an hour before or after a strenuous activity limits the risks of digestive issues, including diarrhea and vomiting.
• Reputable sources like the AAFCO website are the best when looking for the right formula for your active dog.
• Some foods are not right for your working dog. Foods with low-calorie content, inferior proteins, wheat, corn, soy, or artificial additives are not right for working dogs. Energetic dogs need calorie-dense formulas with high-quality proteins. Such a combination ensures your dog stays muscular and energetic to carry out its daily tasks efficiently. 

What are the best working dog foods for different dog breeds? 

Best Working Dog Foods for French Bulldogs

French Bulldogs are bred as lap dogs. They may not be the right breed for working purposes. Your Frenchie prefers lying around to high-energy activities. However, Frenchies need a high-quality diet for muscle power.

• Nulo Freestyle Salmon & Peas Grain-Free Dry Food features deboned salmon as the leading ingredient for a protein value of 30% to build muscles and repair tissues.

Best Working Dog Foods for Siberian Huskies

Huskies, especially Siberian Huskies were bred as sled dogs. They are considered working dogs and hence need a calorie-rich formula.  

• Victor Purpose Healthy Weight Senior Dry Food is an excellent formula for your Husky. It is packed with DHA for cognitive performance to boost your dog’s intelligence levels. Glucosamine and chondroitin are important for strong joints to support physical activities.
• Orijen Grain-Free Six Fish Dry Food is another excellent option for Huskies. It is crafted with 85% high-quality fish ingredients; the first 5 ingredients are fresh or raw. This boosts musculature.

Best Working Dog Foods for Labradors

Labs were bred as working dogs; therefore, they need high-quality foods. The foods should meet Labs’ energy needs and support overall health.

• Canidae Chicken, Turkey, & Lamb All Life Stages Dry Food provides optimum proteins from chicken, turkey, and lamb for strong muscles. The 506 kcal/cup calorie content is suitable for your working Lab. DHA and vitamin E are important for an active mind.

Best Working Dog Foods for Dachshunds

Dachshunds are average working dogs and hence need foods to sustain their activity levels. 

• Blue Buffalo Small Breed Chicken & Brown Rice Adult Dry Food is the perfect formula for your active Dachshund. It includes glucosamine and omegas for joint and skin wellness. Deboned chicken provides amino acids for muscle power. Antioxidants and chelated minerals support immunity. 

Best Working Dog Foods for Shih Tzu

Shih Tzus are loyal, clever, and observant. These attributes make them the best assistance dogs. Foods that support brain wellness and muscle power are the best.

• Nutro Ultra Adult Small Breed Dry Food derives its major proteins from real chicken and has a blend of 15 superfoods like chia and blueberries for immunity and smooth digestion. Vitamin E promotes brain power to improve intelligence levels.

Best Working Dog Foods for Yorkies

Yorkies were originally bred as working dogs. They were used to chase rats and other rodents. With proper training, Yorkies can become the best service dogs.

• Whole Earth Farms Grain-Free Small Breed Dry Food provides wholesome nutrition for your small Yorkie. The blend of chicken and turkey gives your dog strong joints and muscles to support physical activity. Dietary fiber from field-grown vegetables promotes digestive and gut fitness.

Best Working Dog Foods for German Shepherds

German Shepherds are excellent working dogs. Their body stature and gait make them the best police dogs responsible for tasks like sniffing out explosives and narcotics. 

• Dr. Gary’s Holistic Best Breed German Dry Food is specifically crafted for your active German Shepherd. The high-calorie value of 456 kcal/cup and protein content of 25% is perfect for sufficient energy and muscle thickness. 

What are the best working dog foods according to dog sizes?  

Best Working Dog Foods for Small-Sized Dogs

Small dogs have a fast metabolism. This combines with high-activity levels in small working dogs thus calling for calorie-dense formulas. 

• Merrick Classic Small Breed Healthy Grains Adult Dry Food supports small working dogs with its calorie content of 404 kcal/cup. The protein value of 27% is perfect for healthy muscles.

Best Working Dog Foods for Medium-Sized Dogs

Medium-sized working dogs need foods that promote muscle, immune, joint, and heart wellness. Strong muscles and joints support physical activity while proper immunity and heart wellness boost endurance and agility levels.

• Victor Select Grain-Free Canine Recipe Yukon River Dry Food has DHA, selenium, vitamin E, prebiotics, and probiotics that work together to support physical strength. 

Best Working Dog Foods for Large Dogs

Large working dogs including Giant Schnauzer require a balanced and superior recipe to support their weight and energy needs.

• Now Fresh Large Breed Grain-Free Adult Dry Food features deboned turkey as the number 1 ingredient to support your large working dog’s bones and muscles. The calorie content of 393 kcal/cup supports stamina and ideal weight.

What are the best working dog foods for different health conditions? 

Best Working Dog Foods for Itchy Skin

• Brothers Complete Advanced Allergy Care Grain-Free Turkey Meal & Egg Dry Food is specifically formulated for skin wellness. Each cup has 415 calories for high activity levels. The omegas moisturize the skin while DHA boosts intelligence levels.

Best Working Dog Foods for Tear Stains

• Lucy Pet Products Grain-Free Limited Ingredient Diet Duck & Potato Dry Food is free from common allergens including wheat and corn. It has 395 calories per cup to minimize the risk of allergies and support your dog’s stamina.

The Best Working Dog Foods with Glucosamine

• Diamond Naturals Adult Beef Meal & Rice Dry Food includes glucosamine for strong muscles that boost physical activity. It is also packed with antioxidants for immunity. One cup of this formula contains 399 calories to fuel your dog’s strength.

Best Working Dog Foods for Picky Eater Dogs

• Instinct Grain-Free Limited Ingredient Cuts & Gravy Real Lamb Wet Food Topper features lamb broth and lamb as the leading ingredients. The rich flavor is attractive to picky eaters. The calorie content of 92 kcal/3 oz pouch keeps your working dog active throughout the day.

Top Best Working Dog Foods for Dogs with Pancreatitis

• Royal Canin Adult Veterinary Diet Low Fat Gastrointestinal Dry Food has a low-fat content of 5.5%. However, the high protein content is great for powerful muscles. Pancreatic dogs may not make the best working dogs as they are not strong enough for strenuous activities.

Prime Best Working Dog Food for Sensitive Stomach

• Nulo Freestyle Grain-Free Salmon Limited Ingredient Dry Food features salmon as the leading and only protein source to minimize the risk of sensitivities. It is also free from chicken, wheat, corn, eggs, grain, gluten, or peas. Each cup has 438 calories and the high levels of DHA are great for brain health.

The Best Working Dog Food for Dogs with Allergies

• Wellness Simple Grain-Free Limited Ingredient Diet Turkey & Potato Dry Food uses fewer ingredients and has no grains or fillers for minimal risks of allergies. The calorie value of 430 kcal/cup is perfect for working dogs.

What are the best working dog foods with different ingredients? 

Best Working Dog Foods with Pumpkin

• Nature’s Recipe Chicken, Sweet Potato, & Pumpkin Grain-Free Dry Food is a nutrient-dense formula perfect for working dogs. Chicken is the number one ingredient to boost muscle power. Sweet potato and pumpkin provide complex carbs and fiber for stamina and digestion. Vitamin E and selenium support immunity while taurine promotes cardiac well-being.

Best Chicken-Free Dog Food for Working Dogs

• Orijen Grain-Free Regional Red Dry Food uses 85% animal proteins, with the first five ingredients being raw or fresh. Beef is the leading ingredient for thick muscles and strong bones. The high-calorie value of 463 kcal/cup supports physical activity and boosts stamina. It is freeze-dried coated for a rich flavor.

Sum it Up 

Working dogs make our lives easier. A balanced diet is the best reward we can give our working canine furry friends. We have given you an extensive review of the best dog foods for working dogs. The ball is now on your court. Choose your dog’s food wisely as it impacts its health.

Our best overall recipe (Bully Max High-Performance Super Premium Dry Dog Food ) is the perfect start as it has all the attributes for working dog food. Start with it and move on to other formulas that suit your dog’s needs. Consulting the vet before introducing new formulas is key.