Buying guide
Best Dog Food in Australia 2025 — Vet Reviewed
We compared 40 brands so you don't have to. Here's what Australian vets actually recommend.
3 picks, 8 min read
Our top picks
- 1
Breed tailored
Royal Canin Breed-Specific Dog Food
View on Amazon - 2
Vet recommended
Hill's Science Diet Dry Dog Food
View on Amazon - 3
Australian made
Advance Adult Dry Dog Food
View on Amazon
Compare at a glance
Ivory Coat
- Best for
- All sizes
- Key feature
- Australian-made, grain-free options
- Price range
- $25–$80/bag
BlackHawk
- Best for
- Medium & large
- Key feature
- High meat content, widely available
- Price range
- $30–$90/bag
Advance
- Best for
- All sizes
- Key feature
- Vet-recommended, science-backed
- Price range
- $25–$75/bag
Royal Canin
- Best for
- Breed-specific
- Key feature
- Tailored formulas by breed
- Price range
- $35–$100/bag
Canidae
- Best for
- Sensitive stomachs
- Key feature
- Limited ingredient recipes
- Price range
- $40–$95/bag
Hill's Science Diet
- Best for
- Senior & medical
- Key feature
- Clinically researched formulas
- Price range
- $40–$110/bag
| Brand | Best for | Key feature | Price range |
|---|---|---|---|
| Ivory Coat | All sizes | Australian-made, grain-free options | $25–$80/bag |
| BlackHawk | Medium & large | High meat content, widely available | $30–$90/bag |
| Advance | All sizes | Vet-recommended, science-backed | $25–$75/bag |
| Royal Canin | Breed-specific | Tailored formulas by breed | $35–$100/bag |
| Canidae | Sensitive stomachs | Limited ingredient recipes | $40–$95/bag |
| Hill's Science Diet | Senior & medical | Clinically researched formulas | $40–$110/bag |
Applaws
- Best for
- Picky eaters
- Price per serve
- $2.50–$4
Natures Gift
- Best for
- Budget-friendly
- Price per serve
- $1–$2
Hill's Science Diet
- Best for
- Medical conditions
- Price per serve
- $3–$6
Wellness CORE
- Best for
- High protein
- Price per serve
- $3–$5
| Brand | Best for | Price per serve |
|---|---|---|
| Applaws | Picky eaters | $2.50–$4 |
| Natures Gift | Budget-friendly | $1–$2 |
| Hill's Science Diet | Medical conditions | $3–$6 |
| Wellness CORE | High protein | $3–$5 |
Affiliate Disclosure: As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases. Product links on this page go to Amazon AU. Prices shown are approximate, check Amazon for current pricing.
The Australian pet food market is worth over $3 billion and growing fast — which means there are hundreds of brands competing for your dog's bowl, many of them making claims that range from misleading to outright false. Knowing what to look for on a label is the most useful skill any dog owner can develop.
How to read a dog food label in Australia
Australian pet food is regulated by the Pet Food Industry Association of Australia (PFIAA) and must meet the AS 5812 standard. However, this standard sets a floor, not a ceiling. Many compliant foods are nutritionally adequate but far from optimal.
Best dry dog food in Australia by size
Best wet dog food in Australia
Wet food has higher moisture content, which is beneficial for hydration and kidney health — particularly important for older dogs and breeds prone to urinary issues. It's more expensive per calorie than dry food but can be a valuable addition to your dog's diet.
Breed tailored
Royal Canin Breed-Specific Dog Food
Tailored formulas for over 30 breeds — kibble shape, size, and nutrients are designed specifically for your dog's breed.
- Breed-specific kibble shape aids chewing and digestion
- Life-stage formulas: puppy, adult, and senior
- Recommended by Australian vets and breeders
Vet recommended
Hill's Science Diet Dry Dog Food
Clinically proven nutrition backed by 30+ years of veterinary research. Available in puppy, adult, and senior formulas.
- Developed with input from 220+ vets and scientists
- Specialised formulas for sensitive stomach, joints, and weight
- No artificial colours, flavours, or preservatives
Australian made
Advance Adult Dry Dog Food
Australia's most widely recommended dog food by vets — made locally with Australian ingredients and real meat as the first ingredient.
- Made in Australia with local ingredients
- Real chicken or lamb as the first ingredient
- Breed-size specific formulas: small, medium, large
How much should I feed my dog?
Feeding guides on packaging are starting points, not rules. They're often calculated for the average dog of that weight — but your dog's activity level, metabolism, and age all affect how much they actually need. The best measure is your dog's body condition: you should be able to feel (but not easily see) their ribs.
Common questions
Is raw dog food safe in Australia?
Raw feeding is popular but carries real risks — Salmonella, E. coli, and parasites can affect both dogs and the humans handling the food. If you choose to feed raw, source from reputable suppliers, freeze meat before serving, and practice strict hygiene. Consult your vet before starting.
Can dogs eat Australian native meats like kangaroo?
Yes — kangaroo is an excellent protein source for dogs and is common in Australian pet foods. It's lean, highly digestible, and a novel protein that works well for dogs with chicken or beef allergies.
How often should I change my dog's food?
Dogs don't need dietary variety the way humans do. If your dog is thriving on their current food, there's no need to change. If you do switch, transition gradually over 7–10 days to avoid digestive upset.
Is supermarket dog food okay for dogs?
Supermarket brands like Pedigree and Purina are nutritionally adequate for most healthy adult dogs. Premium brands typically use higher-quality ingredients and may benefit dogs with sensitivities, but a healthy dog can do fine on a mainstream brand.