What Are the Best Dog Foods Without Potatoes (2024)

Here is our review of the best dog foods without potatoes.

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Canine food allergies are rising, and pet parents are constantly eliminating common allergies. Potatoes are frequent ingredients in grain-free recipes. Besides being linked to cardiac problems, potatoes have little nutritional value for your dog.

Dogs can get their energy from meat-based proteins. Additionally, some pups may not like how potatoes taste. This is because they are innate predators. These challenges make it a necessity to avoid potato-inclusive recipes. But where do you even start?

Do not worry. We’ve got your back. We have compiled a list of 10 potato-free recipes after thorough research. It is critical to choose the right formulas since the wrong ones could expose your dog to other health problems like allergies, obesity, and tummy issues. 

We also provide you with the qualities of the finest potato-free recipes. This gives you the confidence to buy additional products that aren’t on our list. Let’s start now. 

Are Potatoes Bad for Dogs?

Dogs can eat potatoes without harm, but only within limits. Furthermore, not all potatoes are safe. The only potatoes you should give your canine are cooked sweet or white potatoes. It is best to avoid other potato-based foods like crisps, hash browns, and french fries.

Potatoes can cause blood sugar spikes and are not suitable for diabetic dogs. Potatoes are also carbohydrate-dense, and consuming them frequently leads to obesity. Obesity comes with a host of other health issues like pancreatitis and arthritis. 

Raw potatoes and potato plants have a toxic compound called solanine. Consuming them in large amounts leads to severe gastrointestinal distress, lethargy, confusion, and weakness. The good news is that cooking potatoes will significantly lower the solanine content; however, also cooking slightly reduces the number of vitamins and minerals. 

Acrylamide, produced when potatoes are typically cooked at high temperatures, is believed to increase cancer risk. Additionally, there is a connection between grain-free meals containing potatoes and dilated cardiomyopathy, which is still largely unverified and requires further study.

Sweet potatoes are a healthy alternative to white potatoes. They provide energy and fiber and are rich in vitamins A, B6, and C. Additionally, sweet potatoes have essential minerals like potassium, calcium, iron, and magnesium. 

How can You Identify Potatoes on Dog Food Labels?

Dog foods are labeled differently, and potatoes may not be outrightly written as ‘’potatoes’’. On ingredient labels, potatoes can be found under three different names. When avoiding potatoes in your dog’s diet, the potato should be your first inspection point. Anytime a white potato is used, whether in whole or in part, it will be listed.

Next, you should look out for the starch. A majority of kibble made without grains typically contains potato starch. The meal is typically held together in its small forms using grains. Potato starch is the most widely used when cereals are not an option.

The protein is the final form. Less animal protein is present in the kibble, as indicated by the label’s mention of potato protein. Dogs’ ability to process starches and starch proteins is also unknown. This is one of the main reasons why pet parents want to exclude potatoes from their dog’s formulas. 

What Are the Best Alternatives for Potatoes?

Other ingredients can be used as substitutes for potatoes in your dog’s food. Below are some of the ingredients. 

Legumes

Peas, chickpeas, and lentils are the legumes used most frequently in canine food. Mung and kidney beans are two lesser-used legumes.

In addition to their high protein and fiber content for a healthy digestive system, legumes contain some essential nutrients like manganese, vitamin K, and vitamin B1. Their low glycemic index also makes legumes excellent potato alternatives.

Go for whole legumes and avoid by-products like pea protein and flour. 

Pumpkin

Fiber is key for digestive functions. Pumpkin is a fiber-dense ingredient that lowers the chances of tummy upsets. It is also rich in vitamins A and E for skin and immune functions. Other squashes, including butternut squash, have similar benefits.

What Are the Qualities of the Best Potato-Free Dog Recipes?

Dog food free from potatoes possesses certain characteristics that are key when selecting them. Here are the major features to watch out for.

Whole protein as the first ingredient

Muscle wellness is key for your dog. Proteins are the best sources of amino acids that boost muscle functions. Look for whole proteins like real chicken, turkey, or beef. The further away an ingredient is on the list, the less its proportion in that food. Meat by-products have no nutritional value. 

Whole fruits and veggies

Veggies and fruits are rich in vitamins, fiber, and antioxidants which support digestive, skin, and immune health. 

Healthy supplements

The best potato-free dog foods include glucosamine and chondroitin for the joint, probiotics and prebiotics for the digestive and immune systems, and calcium and phosphorus for your dog’s bones and muscles. 

What Are the Top 5 Potato-Free Brands?

The leading brands include all the features mentioned above. Below are the major brands for the best potato-free dog food:

• Rachel Ray Nutrish.
• Merrick.
• Farmina.
• Dr. Tim’s 
• American Natural. 

Each brand has unique pricing, but the average price for our top 10 formulas is $2.84, with prices ranging from $1.62-4.00. Your dog’s breed and life stage is critical when purchasing the best dog food without potatoes. 

Puppies require more fats and proteins compared to senior dogs.  Large dogs also have unique nutritional needs compared to small dogs. Joint issues are common in large pups, so recipes with glucosamine are useful. Here’s a summary of our potato-free meals:

• Best Overall:  Rachael Ray Nutrish Just 6 Natural Dry Food – $46.49 per 28-lb bag ($1.67-lb).

• Best Price-Effective: VICTOR Classic Hi-Pro Plus Formula Dry Food– $80.99 per 50-lb bag ($1.62-lb).

• Best Grain-Inclusive: Merrick Classic Healthy Grains Adult Dry Food – $76.98 for a 25-lb bag ($3.08-lb).

• Best for All Life Stages: Dr. Tim’s All Life Stages Kinesis Formula Dry Food – $47.79 per 15-lb bag ($3.19-lb).
• Best for Allergies and Sensitivities:  Instinct Grain-Free Limited Ingredient Diet Recipe with Lamb Freeze-Dried Dry Food  – $79.99 per 20-lb bag ($4.00-lb).

Please Note that these prices are as of 27th March 2023. 

Rachael Ray Nutrish Just 6 Natural Dry Food

Dogs prone to sensitivities and allergies require a limited ingredient meal, and this potato-free formula from Rachel Ray is the perfect selection. It uses fewer ingredients and lacks corn, soy, wheat, or artificial additives. The recipe has been on the market since March 3rd, 2011. 

The meal is easy to digest and best for picky dogs. The inclusion of minerals, taurine, and immune and heart wellness. Lamb meal and brown rice are the leading ingredients for strong muscles and smooth digestion. 

The high omegas, chondroitin, and glucosamine support the skin, coat, hip, and joint health. 

• Top 5 Ingredients: Lamb Meal, Brewers Rice, Brown Rice, Dried Beet Pulp, Chicken Fat.

• Guaranteed Analysis: Crude Protein 20% min, Crude Fat 13% min, Crude Fiber 4% Max.

• Calorie Content: 325 kcal/cup.

• Suitable for which dogs: All breeds.

• Feeding: Optimal feeding amounts may vary with your dog’s activity level, size, and age. 

• Key Benefit: It uses fewer ingredients for reduced allergic reactions and sensitivities. 

• Price: $46.49 per 28-lb bag ($1.67-lb).

VICTOR Classic Hi-Pro Plus Formula Dry Food

Proteins are crucial for muscle growth and development. This Mid America Pet Food LLC recipe features high-quality beef, pork, and chicken for amino acids that strengthen the muscles. The recipe has been on the market since April 27th, 2013.

It includes a menhaden fish meal which is an excellent source of DHA. DHA is crucial for cognitive wellness. Additionally, the formula has taurine for a healthy heart. Its high-calorie content makes it a great selection for highly active pups. 

Your dog’s immune system benefits from increased zinc, selenium, and vitamin E levels. Consuming it further ensures your fido maintains a healthy weight thanks to the high L-carnitine volumes. 

• Top 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.

• Calorie Content: 406 kcal/cup.

• Suitable for which dogs: All breeds.

• Feeding: Optimal feeding amounts may vary with your dog’s weight.

• Key Benefit: Combining beef, pork, and chicken contributes to a high protein content for muscle function.

• Price: $80.99 per 50-lb bag ($1.62-lb).

Merrick Classic Healthy Grains Adult Dry Food

This potato-free recipe from Merrick Pet Care starts with real lamb and includes high-quality ancient grains like quinoa, barley, and oatmeal/ this makes it an excellent choice for your pup’s muscles and digestive wellness. The recipe has been on the market since January 14th, 2016.

The increased chondroitin, omegas, and glucosamine make it a good selection for coat, joint, hip, and skin wellness. You will not find any corn, soy, peas, or wheat. Your sensitive dog can therefore consume it safely.

However, it may not be safe for dogs with grain allergies. The inclusion of many grains may trigger an allergic reaction. 

• Top 5 Ingredients: Deboned Lamb, Brown Rice, Salmon Meal, Barley, Oatmeal. 

• Guaranteed Analysis: Crude Protein 23% min, Crude Fat 16% min, Crude Fiber 3.5% Max.

• Calorie Content: 390 kcal/cup.

• Suitable for which dogs: All breeds.

• Feeding: Optimal feeding amounts may vary with your dog’s age, activity levels, and size. 

• Key Benefit: Deboned lamb and salmon meals are the ingredients for thick muscles. 

• Price: $76.98 for a 25-lb bag ($3.08-lb).

Dr. Tim’s All Life Stages Kinesis Formula Dry Food

Sensitivities are common when switching from one recipe to another. However, this high-quality recipe from Dr. Tim’s Pet Food lowers this risk as it is crafted for all life stages. This means you can use it on your dog from the puppy stage to its golden years. The recipe has been on the market since May 14th, 2018. 

This formula contains important omega-3 and -6 to support a healthy glossy coat and animal proteins for sustained energy and muscle maintenance. The EPA and DHA promote brain health, and the patented BC30 probiotic will improve your dog’s immune and digestive systems. 

The food contains natural antioxidants to boost immunity and is expertly slow-cooked to preserve essential vitamins. This food also lacks soy, maize, and wheat fillers. However, it may not suit dogs with grain allergies. 

• Top 5 Ingredients: Chicken Meal, Pearled Barley, Brown Rice, Whole Oat Groats, Chicken Fat.

• Guaranteed Analysis: Crude Protein 26% min, Crude Fat 16% min, Crude Fiber 3% Max.

• Calorie Content: 436 kcal/cup.

• Suitable for which dogs: All breeds.

• Feeding: Optimal feeding amounts may vary with your dog’s environment, activity levels, and age. 

• Key Benefit: Suitable for all life stages, thus lowering the risk of sensitivities that come with switching from one meal to the next. 

• Price: $47.79 per 15-lb bag ($3.19-lb).

Instinct Grain-Free Limited Ingredient Diet Recipe with Lamb Freeze-Dried Dry Food

Potato-free recipes are the best for dogs with allergies, and this premium formula from Nature’s Variety won’t disappoint. Its short ingredients list makes it easy to spot and avoid an allergen. Additionally, the fewer the ingredients, the lower the chances of allergic reactions. This meal has been on the market since March 3rd, 2017.

The meal uses one vegetable and one animal protein making it a great option for fidos with sensitivities. It starts with grass-fed lamb, a highly digestible protein source for strong, thick muscles. 

Increased antioxidants and omegas keep your dog’s immune system, skin, and coat healthy. The formula is devoid of fillers,  grains, and artificial ingredients. It may, however, not be the right food for dogs with grain allergies. 

• Top 5 Ingredients: Lamb Meal, Lamb, Tapioca, Peas, Canola Oil.

• Guaranteed Analysis: Crude Protein 24% min, Crude Fat 21.5% min, Crude Fiber 3.5% Max.

• Calorie Content: 447 kcal/cup.

• Suitable for which dogs: All breeds.

• Feeding: Optimal feeding amounts may vary with your dog’s age, activity level, and weight.

• Key Benefit: It starts with easily digestible grass-fed lamb for amino acids that promote muscle wellness. 

• Price: $79.99 per 20-lb bag ($4.00-lb).

Farmina N&D Ancestral Grain Adult Dry Food

Formulated with free-range chicken, this natural and delicious recipe from Farmina supports your fido’s muscles while ensuring a healthy weight. The coating system used after cooking ensures food vitamins retain their freshness. The meal has been on the market since June 24th, 2019.

This is a low-glycemic meal and hence safe for your diabetic dog. Additionally, it contains fewer carbs for reduced chances of obesity. Its high omega levels keep your dog’s coat bright and skin smooth.

Including superfoods like pomegranates and berries makes this meal a powerhouse of antioxidants that prevent inflammation and frequent infections. There are no legumes, peas, fillers, or artificial ingredients. 

• Top 5 Ingredients: Chicken, Dehydrated Chicken, Whole Spelt, Whole Oats, Chicken Fat.

• Guaranteed Analysis: Crude Protein 30% min, Crude Fat 18% min, Crude Fiber 2.9% Max.

• Calorie Content: 400 kcal/cup.

• Suitable for which dogs: All breeds.

• Feeding: Optimal feeding amounts may vary with your dog’s weight.

• Key Benefit: Free-range chicken is the leading ingredient for muscle health and a healthy weight. 

• Price: $79.95 per 26.5-lb bag ($3.02-lb).

American Natural Premium Original Recipe Dry Food

Proteins are key for your dog’s muscles and sustained energy. This premium meal from Lambert Food includes four protein sources: pork, chicken, fish meal, and eggs. The formula is highly palatable and digestible to tempt your selective feeder and ensure maximum nutrient retention. The formula has been on the market since March 23rd, 2017. 

The increased probiotic levels support the immune system and gastrointestinal tract wellness. Additionally, probiotics reduce stool volume and odor, making poop collection stress-free. Cooking at low temperatures and in small batches ensures maximum nutrient retention for a healthy dog.

There is no corn, soy, or wheat.  Complex carbs like barley, oats, and brown rice ensure your dog stays physically active throughout the day. Be cautious with pups allergic to grains. 

• Top 5 Ingredients: Chicken Meal, Oatmeal, Brown Rice, White Rice, Chicken Fat.

• Guaranteed Analysis: Crude Protein 25% min, Crude Fat 16% min, Crude Fiber 3.5% Max.

• Calorie Content: 384.33 kcal/cup.

• Suitable for which dogs: All breeds.

• Feeding: Optimal feeding amounts may vary with your dog’s weight.

• Key Benefit: The combination of chicken, pork, fish meal, and eggs contributes to a high protein content for muscle power. 

• Price: $80.00 per 40-lb bag ($2.00-lb).

Earthborn Grain-Free Limited Ingredient Diet Holistic Venture Pollock Meal & Pumpkin Dry Food

This potato-free recipe from Midwestern Pet Foods lacks gluten and grains for your dog’s overall wellness. It starts with a pollock meal to keep muscles strong and healthy. Pumpkin is the next ingredient for proper digestion and reduced tummy issues. This recipe has been on the market since November 4th, 2014. 

The meal boosts your dog’s cognitive and immune systems thanks to its high DHA levels and vitamins C and E. omega-6 and 3 keep the coat shiny and skin smooth, while taurine ensures the heart functions properly.

There are no artificial additives, fillers, or by-products. This makes it an excellent selection for pups with allergies and sensitivities. 

• Top 5 Ingredients: Alaska Pollock Meal, Tapioca, Pumpkin, Flaxseed, Sunflower Oi. 

• Guaranteed Analysis: Crude Protein 26% min, Crude Fat 13% min, Crude Fiber 9% Max.

• Calorie Content: 325 calories per cup. 

• Suitable for which dogs: All breeds.

• Feeding: Optimal feeding amounts may vary with your dog’s weight.

• Key Benefit: Pollock meal and pumpkin are the leading muscle and digestive wellness ingredients. 

• Price: $7.20 for a 25-lb bag ($3.09-lb).

Zignature Zssential Multi-Protein Formula Grain-Free Dry Food 

Pups with rotational diets do well with limited ingredient formulas. This high-quality meal from Pets Global uses fewer real ingredients and has fish and animal proteins for healthy muscles. The recipe has been on the market since August 21st, 2013.

The formula is omega-dense for a shiny coat and soft skin. It also includes taurine and L-carnitine for cardiac wellness. L-carnitine also breaks down excess fat, thus ensuring your dog maintains a healthy weight. 

Calcium and phosphorus support bone and muscle functions. Zignature Multi-Protein Small Bites is an excellent option for a small dog. It provides wholesome nutrition but in smaller bites. 

• Top 5 Ingredients: Turkey, Turkey Meal, Salmon, Lamb Meal, Chickpeas.

• Guaranteed Analysis: Crude Protein 32% min, Crude Fat 17% min, Crude Fiber 5% Max.

• Calorie Content: 405 kcal/cup.

• Suitable for which dogs: All breeds.

• Feeding: Optimal feeding amounts may vary with your dog’s weight.

• Key Benefit: Turkey tops the ingredient list for high-quality proteins to support your fido’s muscles. 

• Price: $87.99 for a 25-lb bag ($3.52-lb).

Nutro Ultra Senior Dry Food

Senior pups are susceptible to allergies, and eliminating potatoes from their recipes could extend their lifespan. This potato-free formula from Nutro is specifically crafted for dogs in their golden stages. It has been on the market since September 30th, 2004. 

With high-quality ingredients abundant in vitamins, minerals, and nutrients like glucosamine and beta-carotene, the meal gives aging dogs what they need to stay healthy and active. Glucosamine keeps the joints strong, while beta-carotene supports vision health.

The meal starts with chicken and includes salmon and lamb, which blend for high-value proteins. You will not find fillers like corn, soy, and wheat. Additionally, there are no artificial colors, flavors, or preservatives. 

• Top 5 Ingredients: Chicken, Whole Grain Sorghum, Chicken Meal, Whole Grain Brown Rice, Whole grain Oats. 

• Guaranteed Analysis: Crude Protein 26% min, Crude Fat 13% min, Crude Fiber 4% Max.

• Calorie Content: 309 kcal/cup.

• Suitable for which dogs: All breeds.

• Feeding: Optimal feeding amounts may vary with your pup’s weight.

• Key Benefit: Chicken is the first ingredient for amino acids that boost muscle wellness.  

• Price: $47.99 per 15-lb bag ($3.20-lb).

What Facts Should You Know About Dog Foods Without Potatoes 

In commercial canine foods,  potatoes are frequently used as sources of carbohydrates because they are reasonably priced, easily digestible, and have a high nutritional value. Potatoes are a wonderful source of complex carbohydrates, a great energy source, and potassium, essential for cardiovascular health. 

They are also low in sugar, have a fair quantity of dietary fiber, and are protein, iron, and vitamin C sources. Even though most dogs can consume potatoes, not all should because some dogs do much better on a diet low in carbohydrates and starch. The vitamins, minerals, fiber, and protein that potatoes may provide can all be readily obtained from other sources.

The main deterrent to feeding potatoes to your canine is the solanine content. To protect itself, the nightshade family of plants, which includes potatoes, eggplant, and tomatoes, produce the toxin solanine as a natural pesticide. 

The positive aspect is that cooking potatoes will significantly lower the solanine content; the downside is that cooking slightly reduces the number of vitamins and minerals. 

Acrylamide, produced when potatoes are typically cooked at high temperatures, is believed to increase cancer risk. Additionally, there is a connection between grain-free meals containing potatoes and dilated cardiomyopathy, though this is still largely unproven.

Potatoes shouldn’t be included in your dog’s diet as they contain too many carbs. Dogs don’t need carbohydrates for nutrition, though it’s usually okay to include small amounts of healthy carbs. Consuming lots of carbs may lead to obesity and other health issues. 

What Are the Best Dog Foods Without Potatoes According to Dog Sizes?

The Best Dog Food Without Potatoes for Small Dogs

• Your Boxer can easily become allergic to some ingredients, including potatoes. This calls for formulas devoid of potatoes. Blue Buffalo Small Breed Life Protection Adult Chicken & Brown Rice Dry Food is a potato-free recipe for small dogs. It comes in small kibble for tartar removal and has glucosamine, chelated minerals, and antioxidants for joint and immune wellness.

Best Dog Food Without Potatoes for Medium Dogs

• Medium dogs, including Australian Shepherds, may develop allergies and sensitivities over time. Consuming a potato-free formula may lessen the negative reactions. ZiwiPeak Grain-Free Lamb Air-Dried Dog Food is crafted with a single protein and has no fillers or added carbs. Superfoods like green mussels and dried kelp support vitality and mobility, while lamb provides amino acids for the muscles.  

Best Dog Food Without Potatoes for Large Dogs

• Large dogs, including Pitbull and Airedale Terriers, thrive in a low-carb formula. Nutro Ultra Adult Large Breed Dry Food is formulated for large dogs. It includes chicken, salmon, and lamb for high-quality proteins. Additionally, the meal uses a combination of 15 superfoods, including chia and blueberries, for your dog’s overall health. 

What Are the Best Dog Foods Without Potatoes With Different Ingredients?

What Is the Best Potato-Free Dog Food with Brown Rice

• Digestive health is critical, and brown rice is a complex carb source with a high-fiber content for proper digestion. Canidae Chicken, Lamb, & Turkey All Life Stages Dry Food includes brown rice, a protein-dense meal for healthy muscles. It is suitable for all life stages, thus lowering the chances of sensitivities from switching from one meal to another. 

Best Potato-Free Dog Food with Blueberries

• Blueberries are superfoods rich in antioxidants. This is vital, especially for senior pups, as their immunity tends to decrease. Blue Buffalo Senior Freedom Grain-Free Canned Food has no potatoes. It includes blueberries and other high-quality ingredients like carrots and complex carbs for the immune and digestive systems. 

Best Potato-Free Dog Food with Sweet Potatoes

• Due to their higher fiber content and a wider array of vitamins and minerals, sweet potatoes are generally considered better than regular potatoes. American Journey Grain-Free Lamb & Sweet Potato Puppy Dry Food starts with real amb for energy, lean muscles, and general well-being. The formula is rich in DHA, which supports your puppy’s cognitive functions. 

Is it healthy for dogs to eat potatoes in their food? 

Yes. Potatoes are rich in fiber and vitamins that boost your dog’s overall wellness. They contain vitamins C and B6 and minerals like potassium and magnesium. Additionally, potatoes contain traces of proteins. However, their high starch content makes potatoes unhealthy in large amounts. Meat is the best alternative since dogs easily digest and absorb it. 

Are potatoes or rice healthier for dogs? 

Although both are considered fillers, potatoes are healthier than white rice. Rice gives your dog’s body energy more quickly than other carbs like potatoes, but it also raises blood sugar levels.

Are potatoes OK in dog food? 

Yes. Potatoes are okay in dog food. They contain fiber and vitamins. However, dogs with allergies may not do well with potato-inclusive recipes. Potatoes can aggravate the situation. 

Why should dogs not eat potatoes? 

Although potatoes contain healthy nutrients, they have their downsides. Here are the main reasons why dogs should not eat potatoes:

• Potatoes contain solanine which can be toxic in canines. Cooking, however destroys this harmful chemical. The downside of cooking is that most nutrients are destroyed.
• Cooking potatoes uses high temperatures. This leads to the formation of acrylamide which exposes your dog to cancer. 
• Potatoes have high amounts of carbs. Carbs have little or no nutritional value for your dog. They, however, increase the risk of obesity. Obesity may cause other health issues like pancreatitis and arthritis. These are chronic issues and may be fatal. 

Final Thoughts

Although potatoes have healthy nutrients, their risks may be higher than their benefits. Dogs with allergies also do well with potato-free recipes. These are the main reasons to switch to dog foods without potatoes.

Our best overall recipe  Rachael Ray Nutrish Just 6 Natural Dry Food, is an excellent start. It includes fewer ingredients and contains chondroitin, glucosamine, and omegas for joint and coat wellness. 

For a budget-friendly option, we have the high-protein VICTOR Classic Hi-Pro Plus Formula Dry Food which promotes immunity thanks to its high antioxidant levels. The list is long, so you have a variety to choose from.