- The blog discusses seven top dog food brands in South Africa and rates them based on ingredients, cost, and availability.
- ACANA
- Bobtail
- Canine Cuisine
- Diamond Naturals
- Eukanuba
- Hill’s
- Jock
- Montego Pet Nutrition
- OPTIMIZOR
- Royal Canin
- Ultra Pet
- VetsBrand
- Consider your dog’s specific needs, age, breed, and dietary requirements when choosing the best food.
- Consult with a veterinarian for personalized advice, and use this article as a starting point for your research.
Choosing the best dog food in South Africa is crucial for ensuring your pet’s health and well-being. With a variety of options available, it can be difficult to determine which brand offers the best nutrition for your dog. This comparison examines some of the top-rated dog food brands in South Africa, evaluating them on ingredients, price, availability, and suitability for different dietary needs. We looked at reviews from various pet shops and large e-commerce websites for highly rated dog food brands from customers. When making your decision, consider factors such as your dog’s age, breed, dietary needs, and consult with a veterinarian for personalised advice.
Compare premium dog food using the Pets24 Premium Dog Food Comparison Tool.
ACANA
dietary needs. ACANA’s focus on natural, responsibly sourced ingredients ensures your pet
receives the best possible diet. With prices ranging from R1100 to R1900 for a 6kg bag, ACANA is available Nationwide at Pet Speciality Stores and also online pet stores and veterinary shops.
Order Acana online at Pet Heaven. See more info here.
Bobtail
Bobtail is a popular dry and wet dog food brand that provides affordable nutrition to keep South Africa’s dogs healthy & strong. Whether you have a puppy, adult, or senior dog, Bobtail offers specially formulated recipes to meet their nutritional needs. Bobtail’s recipes are crafted using Vitarite, which provides 23 vitamins and minerals for healthy skin and coat, strong teeth and bones, muscle strength and agility and a healthy immune system.
Bobtail stands out for being budget-friendly and widely available in most leading grocery stores. The brand offers a diverse product range that caters to different life stages and dietary needs of dogs. From puppy formulas to adult maintenance and specialised blends, Bobtail ensures a suitable option for every stage of your dog’s life. With its competitive price range of R200 to R300 for an 8kg bag, Bobtail is popular among budget-conscious pet owners. It is easily accessible in grocery stores, pet shops, and online retailers.
Look for affordable dog food here.
Canine Cuisine
Canine Cuisine prides itself in producing high-quality dog food. Canine Cuisine is a dog food brand that resident veterinarians and animal nutritionists have scientifically formulated. It provides a wide range of flavours and textures to ensure that dogs remain attentive to their meals. The brand emphasizes the use of premium ingredients, such as real meats, vegetables, and other ingredients, to ensure that dogs receive nutritious and tasty meals.
Additionally, supplements may be included to promote joint health, muscular support, skin and coat, a healthy immune system, and healthy digestion. Canine Cuisine also has a specialised diet range that includes specialised formulations that assist with improving joint health, weight management and providing grain-free nutrition for dogs that have grain-based allergies. Priced between R310 and R350 for a 6kg bag, Canine Cuisine is widely available in supermarkets, online stores, and pet shops.
Diamond Naturals
cage-free chicken, pasture-raised lamb and real salmon and offer a variety of formulas for different sizes and life stages. Enriched with superfoods like chia seeds, quinoa and spinach to craft a level of nutrient density that supports not just health but their overall wellness as well. Diamond Naturals widens access to premium holistic pet food without compromising on the dietary needs of our beloved companions. It’s great quality and complete nutrition at a family-friendly price. With prices ranging from R600 to R800 for a 7,5kg bag, Diamond Naturals is available nationwide at pet speciality stores and also online pet stores and veterinary shops.
Eukanuba
Eukanuba has used the power of nutritional science to fuel dogs’ athletic abilities and unleash their full potential. This makes Eukanuba a great option for active dogs. Eukanuba’s formulas have broken new ground in various aspects, from using beet pulp and key prebiotics to optimize digestion, to incorporating omega-6 and omega-3 fatty acids for skin and coat health. They’ve developed an antioxidant blend to support immune function and post-exercise recovery, optimized nutrients by activity and dog size, among other breakthroughs. Eukanuba is priced between R800 and R1060 for a 9kg bag and widely available in pet and veterinary stores as well as online, and it is ideal for active dogs that require optimal nutrition for peak performance.
Look for grain-free dog food options here.
Hills
Hill’s has established itself as a trusted name in the pet food industry, renowned for its unwavering commitment to science-based nutrition that understands the health of your pet from the inside out. Hill’s employs more than 220 veterinarians, qualified nutritionists and food scientists to understand what your pet needs to live the longest, happiest life possible. The brand has a deep understanding of pets and their specific nutritional needs, combining ingredients and nutrients that not only taste best but also deliver the most nutritional benefits for pets of every age, size and need.
Hills is a great option for dogs with specific health issues. They have extensive research backing their formulations, ensuring tailored nutrition for specific health needs. With a broad range of specialized diets available, Hill’s is well-suited for dogs with specific dietary requirements. As a result of its scientific approach and quality products. Hills offers a wide range of dry dog food formulas, including adult, puppy, senior, breed-specific, and veterinary formulas. They also offer a variety of wet food and treats. A 6kg bag costs between R720 and R1000, and Hill’s is available at online retailers, pet shops, and veterinary stores.
Order Hills online at Just for Pets Online Pet Store. See more info here.
Find the best online pet stores here.
Jock Dog Food
JOCK Dog Food is dedicated to providing balanced and nutritious diets for active dogs. Their formulas feature high-quality protein sources like chicken and top-grade quality ingredients are used, ensuring overall well-being and vitality for energetic dogs. JOCK Dog Food aims to provide a balanced and nutritious diet for active and energetic dogs.
JOCK Dog Food offers a range of dog food options that cater to various budgets. They have both economical and premium lines, making it accessible for pet owners with different financial capabilities. JOCK Dog Food offers a comprehensive product range, including options for puppies, adult dogs, and senior dogs. They also have specialized formulas for specific dietary requirements. You can easily find it in pet stores, online retailers, and select grocery stores. Prices range from R210 to R300 for an 8kg bag, making Jock an affordable choice for pet owners.
Montego Pet Nutrition
Montego’s focus on natural and wholesome ingredients sets it apart as a premium choice for pet owners seeking nutritionally balanced options for their pets. With an emphasis on real meat, accompanied by nutrient-rich vegetables and whole grains, Montego ensures that each formula supports digestion, skin and coat health, and overall vitality. Their extensive pet food range caters to various preferences and dietary needs, ensuring that every pet receives the nutrition they require for healthy growth and development.
Montego has both economical and premium lines, making it accessible for pet owners with different financial capabilities. It is readily available in pet stores, online retailers, and some grocery stores. Montego offers a diverse product range that caters to various life stages and specific dietary needs. Whether your dog requires a hypoallergenic option or has specific sensitivities, Montego provides tailored formulas to meet those requirements. An 8kg bag costs between R170 and R570, making it a versatile option for pet owners on various budgets.
Order Montego online at Pet Heaven. See more info here.
Have you tried using the Pets24 Free Online Vet? Click here to ask the Online Vet any general health questions.
Buy pet food online here.
OPTIMIZOR
OPTIMIZOR features delicious recipes with added protein – everything an active dog needs – plus a host of other benefits your dog will salivate over. OPTIMIZOR has dog food for puppies and adult dogs. High in protein, it is a high-quality dog food specially formulated for active dogs. Their resident animal nutritionist and veterinarian ensure a balanced formula of high-quality poultry meal and rice, together with VitaCARE, all to ensure optimal levels of protein for strong muscles and promote a healthy immune system. OPTIMIZOR is one of the more affordable high-protein options, with prices ranging from R230 to R330 for a 7kg bag. It is available in online pet shops and veterinary stores.
Royal Canin
Royal Canin stands out with its unique approach to dog and cat food, offering precise nutrition for different sizes and life-stages, breeds as well as specific sensitivities. The brand places a strong emphasis on understanding the distinctive needs of different dogs, be it by size, age, breed or condition, and tailors their formulas to meet those specific requirements. Each diet is specifically formulated to contain all the essential nutrients that cater to the individual needs. Additionally, Royal Canin uses high-quality ingredients that promote healthy digestion, skin & coat and overall well-being.
Royal Canin also stands out as a great option for dogs with specific health issues. One of the notable advantages of Royal Canin is its specialized diets, which cater to specific breed characteristics and sizes. This tailored approach ensures that each dog receives the precise nutrition they need to thrive. The brand offers a wide range of products, providing options that suit the preferences of different pets, making it easier for pet owners to find the perfect match for their furry companions. With a 12kg bag ranging from R1300 to R1800, Royal Canin it is widely available in pet shops, veterinary stores, and online retailers.
Order Royal Canin online at Just for Pets Online Pet Store. See more info here.
Ultra Pet
Ultra Pet offers balanced and complete nutrition for pets at every life stage and size. Their dry dog and cat food formulas are formulated by veterinarians to meet specific nutritional requirements. The key components of Ultra Pet’s food include protein from high-quality poultry meal and fresh meat, which provide essential amino acids for muscle development and enhance the taste of the food. The correct balance of omega fatty acids, antioxidants, and carbohydrates is incorporated to promote overall health, support a strong immune system, and provide the energy your pet needs for an active lifestyle.
One advantage of choosing Ultra Pet is that their products are locally manufactured, ensuring the quality and freshness of the ingredients. Additionally, being locally produced helps make their veterinarian-grade formulation more affordable than some imported brands. Ultra Pet food is widely available in veterinary clinics, pet stores, and online retailers, making it easy for pet owners to provide optimal nutrition for their pets. Choosing Ultra Pet means providing quality and nutritious food for a healthier and more active life for your beloved dog or cat. With prices ranging from R180 to R300 for a 3kg bag, Ultra Pet is an affordable, locally produced option.
Order Ultra Pet online at Just for Pets Online Pet Store. See more info here.
VetsBrand
VetsBrands, owned by a group of dedicated veterinarians, prioritizes the well-being of pets by offering top-notch healthcare and nutrition. VetsBrands guarantees quality through rigorous checks during production. Quality is a cornerstone at Vetsbrands, with a commitment to superior pet food and products. Digestibility trials at accredited veterinarian research facilities ensure Premium and Super Premium grade, surpassing 85% digestibility. The brand emphasizes top-quality ingredients with high bio-availability, considering the specific species, age, activity, and geographic location. Consistency is maintained through reputable suppliers, providing raw materials free of contamination and poor digestibility, ultimately prioritizing the health of dogs. VetsBrands dog foods include ingredients that support dog’s joints, skin, heart and immune system.
Quality is a cornerstone at Vetsbrands, with a commitment to superior pet food and products. Digestibility trials at accredited veterinarian research facilities ensure Premium and Super Premium grade, surpassing 85% digestibility. The brand emphasizes top-quality ingredients with high bio-availability, considering the specific species, age, activity, and geographic location. Consistency is maintained through reputable suppliers, providing raw materials free of contamination and poor digestibility, ultimately prioritizing the health of pets. A 6kg bag costs between R430 and R630 and is available at online pet shops and veterinary stores.
What is the best dog food in South Africa?
The term “best” can vary depending on your dog’s specific needs and preferences. In this blog, we’ve compared various top dog food brands in South Africa, each with its own unique features. Review the article to find the one that best suits your pet.
Can you provide a list of the top 10 best dog foods in South Africa?
This blog focuses on seven top dog food brands in South Africa, rather than a specific “top 10” list. These brands are discussed in detail to help you make an informed choice.
Canine Cuisine vs. Montego: Which one is better for my dog?
Canine Cuisine and Montego are both reputable brands, but the best choice for your dog depends on their specific needs. The article provides a detailed comparison to help you decide which brand aligns better with your dog’s requirements.
What should I consider when looking for the best dog food?
When choosing the best dog food, consider factors such as your dog’s age, breed, dietary requirements, and any specific health concerns. The article outlines important criteria to evaluate dog food brands.
Which brand offers the best puppy food in South Africa?
The article discusses various brands suitable for puppies The best choice depends on your puppy’s individual needs. Read this blog for top-rated puppy food.
How to choose the best puppy food for your dog?
Choosing the best puppy food for your dog is essential for their growth and well-being. Start by consulting with your veterinarian to determine your puppy’s specific nutritional needs based on factors like breed, size, and age. Check the ingredients list for high-quality protein sources and avoid fillers or artificial additives. Consider your puppy’s age, size, and any special dietary needs or sensitivities they may have. Research different puppy food brands, read reviews, and select a reputable option known for quality and transparency. Gradually transition your puppy to the new food, monitoring their health and adjusting as needed. With careful consideration and guidance from your veterinarian, you can choose the best puppy food to support your dog’s health and development.
READ|Pet Heaven’s Top-Rated Dog Food: Nourishing Your Canine Companion for a Healthy Life
How to choose dog food in South Africa
- Consider your dog’s age, size, and breed.
- Check for high-quality protein sources as the main ingredient.
- Ensure balanced nutrition and avoid fillers and artificial additives.
- Address any special dietary needs your dog may have.
- Follow feeding guidelines to prevent overfeeding.
- Choose a food that fits your budget without compromising quality.
- Transition to new food gradually to avoid digestive upset.
- Monitor your dog’s health and adjust as needed.
JOCK dog food vs Montego dog food
When it comes to selecting the best nutrition for your furry friend, Montego and JOCK stand out as prominent South African dog food brands, each with unique benefits and features. Montego focuses on natural ingredients, emphasizing real meat complemented by fruits, vegetables, and whole grains across its diverse product range. With options like Monty & Me and Karoo, Montego offers both budget-friendly and premium choices, ensuring pets receive a well-rounded diet. On the other hand, JOCK prioritizes high-quality protein sources such as chicken and beef, catering to active dogs with a balanced and nutritious diet through options like JOCK Value and JOCK Grandeur. Both brands are widely accessible through local pet stores and online retailers, allowing pet owners across South Africa to provide their pets with quality nutrition tailored to their specific needs and budgets.
Get more info about JOCK vs Montego dog food here.
Please note: This blog post aims to provide helpful information about different dog food brands based on research and general knowledge available at the time of publication. However, we recognise the dog food industry is continuously evolving with new products released frequently. Every dog has unique nutritional needs and preferences, so we encourage readers to consult with their veterinarian before making major changes to their pet’s diet. The star ratings given to brands in this article reflect the subjective opinions of the authors based on the outlined criteria and they are not definitive judgments. Please use this post as a starting point for your own research when selecting the best food for your dog’s needs and do what’s best for your individual pup. This article should not replace professional veterinary advice.
Hi my dogs are on Adult Lukuno Dog Food…. how does it rate?
Hello there Adorjan. Thanks for your query! Every dog has different nutritional needs and lifestyles and it is important that the food that you feed them provides them with everything they need. To make sure that your dog food is best suited to your dog, we always recommend that you do extensive research on the dog food that you feed your precious pet and ask your veterinarian for advice!
Both our dogs have been on Lukuno Grain Free for close to a year now and they LOVE it. Wagging tails and excitement we never saw with any other food, not even Royal Canine.
Hi Angela, That’s fantastic to hear! It’s clear that Lukuno Grain Free has really made a positive impact on your dogs’ happiness and health.
What about catfood?
Hi Yvonne, thanks for leaving us a comment, here is a blog about top cat food brands in South Africa: https://pets24.co.za/blog/dry-cat-food-south-africa/
Luna, our dog, thrives on Jock Dog Food. After reading your research I know that I have made a good choice for her.
Thats Amazing Diana! We are happy Luna is thriving with Jock Dog food.
My babies have always had Montego dog food, but I now see after reading these brand info’s,I may consider bobtail.thank you .
We are glad you found the blog was useful Michelle ❤️
We are happy that you found the blog useful Michelle ❤️
Good day,
I am looking for dog food for someone that does not contain any pork product.
Can you advice?
Hi Tine,Thank you for reaching out. At Pets24, we encourage pet owners to be informed about what goes into their pets’ food and always to consult a vet before choosing a pet food brand for your furry friend. Here are some friendly suggestions for brands to explore – Ultra Pet, Bobtail, and Canine Cuisine. These brands prioritise your pets’ well-being, offering top-notch ingredients for their health and happiness. Your pet’s unique needs matter, so feel free to reach out for guidance on choosing the perfect food. We’re here to help.
You fail to mention specific ingredients. Our Jack Russell had terrible skin problems, and various vets prescribed different remedies, none of which worked. Eventually I asked one about diet, and she said that almost all dogfood available was maize based and frequently caused skin and other allergies. She advised me to change to a rice based food, which I did. I chose Ultrapet Optiwoof for adult dogs and the problem disappeared, never to return.
Hi Tony, Thank you for sharing your experience and the positive outcome you observed with Ultrapet Optiwoof. It’s valuable to consider dietary factors when addressing pet health concerns. We appreciate your feedback and are glad to hear that the switch had such a positive impact on your Jack Russell’s skin problems.
Can you please review OPTIMIZOR, as it is also a fast growing brand
Hi Amori, Thank you for reaching out to us and adding Optimizor to the discussion! we are constantly updating our content and will certainly look into you suggestion for future content.
Where is Acana food in this equation?
Probably the best out of the lot.
Expensive, but your dogs deserve the best.
Some others mentioned just give the pets Diahrria and itchy skin!
Hi W Rees, Thank you for introducing Acana food into the discussion. Your input is appreciated, and it’s essential to consider various options to make informed choices for our dogs. Every dog has unique needs, so it’s always wise to explore different brands and consult with a veterinarian for tailored recommendations.
Im confused about the dog food list, because i know Bobtail is probably in the top ten worst brands.
Hi Frank, Thank you for sharing your concerns with us regarding our blog post. We genuinely appreciate your input, and we’d like to address your points. The brands mentioned in the article were chosen based on high ratings and popularity from the pet owner community, e-commerce and pet shop sites.
What do you think of Vetsbrand dog foods??
Hi Ivan, When considering a dog food brand, it’s essential to review the ingredients, check for any recalls, and consult with your veterinarian for recommendations tailored to your dog’s specific needs. Reading reviews and hearing about other pet owners’ experiences with the brand can also provide valuable insights. Ultimately, what’s best for your dog depends on their age, size, dietary requirements, and any specific health considerations.
My dogs is on Optimizer Complete. I am giving it to them now for more than 2 years and they really loved it. The dogs ages range for 4 yr, 5yrs, 11, 12 and 13 years.
Hi Henriette, It’s fantastic that your dogs have been enjoying Optimizer Complete for over 2 years, given their age range from 4 to 13 years. Their continued love for the food is a great sign of its quality and their happiness. Keep in mind to adjust their diet as they age to meet their changing nutritional needs, and remember that consulting a vet is essential to ensure their well-being.
Hi. I noticed Eukanuba isn’t listed?
Mistake on the Royal Canin I think…says Hills in the write up.
Hi Karen, thank you for bringing this to our attention. We appreciate your vigilance. We’ve corrected the mistake, and your feedback has been invaluable in ensuring the accuracy of our information.
Very good comparisons. I use Acana and don’t think I Sud change ..just out I curiosity and to get a cheaper brand. I believe Acana is the best ..my dachund short haired dapple has a beautiful coat and just loves his food. He’s 6 yrs and looks gorgeous.
Hi Mirriam, It’s great your dachshund loves Acana and has a beautiful coat. Exploring other brands could offer cost savings, but if Acana works well for your dog’s health and happiness, sticking with it might be the best choice.
I have been using Field and Forest for my Bichon Frise who is 15 months old. She became very itchy on Royal Canine and we changed because Field and Forest is free of wheat and high on protein. What is your judgement of the nutritional.value for my Bichon? Many thanks
Hi Judy, While I can’t provide professional veterinary advice, it’s great to hear that your Bichon Frise is doing better on Field and Forest compared to Royal Canine, especially considering the absence of wheat and the higher protein content. Nutritional needs can vary for each dog, so what works well for one might differ for another. It might be helpful to consult with a veterinarian or a pet nutritionist for a more tailored assessment of your Bichon’s nutritional needs. They can offer specialised guidance based on your dog’s specific health and dietary requirements. Additionally, our blog on hypoallergenic dog food might offer some valuable insights as you navigate your dog’s dietary needs.
I have a 2 year old Yorkshire Terrier, who has been on ACANA and loveS the brand, due to their rich meat and grain free produce , however with recent size reduction , it is not feasible to stay with them, as their prices are hiking and quantity reducing, I do still want to keep on a high end brand that has similar specifications to ACANA, however more affordable, what would you recommend?
Hi Lavender, I understand, finding a substitute for Acana that’s both high-quality and affordable can be tricky. Look for brands with similar specifications to Acana: grain-free, rich in meat content, and known for their quality ingredients. Explore different pet stores or online retailers, comparing ingredient lists and nutritional profiles. Prioritise protein-rich formulas with a balance of essential nutrients for your Yorkshire Terrier. Consulting your vet for tailored advice considering your dog’s specific needs is always a wise step.
My two beagles have been on Acana Classics Prairie Poultry for almost 4 years now, but it is becoming increasingly difficult to find it at a reasonable price. Many petshops also decided against stocking goign forward so it is difficult to find also.
What would be a good substitute if any? Or should you just order online and pay ridiculous costs plus delivery.
Hi George,I totally understand the challenge of finding the right food for your pups, especially when their favourite becomes hard to come by or pricier. When looking for an alternative to Acana Classics Prairie Poultry, it’s crucial to consider your dogs’ unique nutritional needs. Consult your vet for tailored recommendations based on breed, age, and health. Explore local pet stores for comparable brands and consider online options, but ensure they meet your pups’ requirements. There are numerous high-quality alternatives available; research and vet guidance will help find the right fit for your beagles.
Hi my Labrador has hip and osteoarthritis so we have her on royal canine joint mobility. She has also lost weight and whilst it’s expensive it is a must if you can’t afford hip replacement.
Two years ago my 15 year old cat started with kidney failure. Two years later he is doing well thanks to Royal canine kidney food
Hi Renee, That’s great to hear how Royal Canine foods are helping your pets manage their health conditions. It’s tough when cost is a concern, but it’s wonderful to see how tailored nutrition can make a difference for their well-being.
I’m confused about the dog food list
Hi Mphephu, Thank you for the comment. Please note that the mentioned in the article were chosen based on high ratings and popularity from the pet owner community, e-commerce and pet shop sites, and it’s not an exhaustive list.
Hi, what would you recommend for a great Pyrenees with skin problems.
Thank you
Hi Caroline, Skin problems in Great Pyrenees can vary, and it’s crucial to address them properly. While we’re not vet specialists, we highly recommend reaching out to a veterinarian for personalised advice. They can assess your pup’s specific condition and provide tailored recommendations for managing skin issues. It’s always best to get professional guidance to ensure your furry friend gets the care they need. Wishing your Great Pyrenees a speedy recovery!
I find it interesting that the best pet food available in SA is not included in your list? Nothing beats Farmina Cold pressed pet food! It is better than Acana at a more reasonable price. Please give them the recognition they deserve for the sake of carnivorous pets.
Thank you for the recommendation, Nesta! We love receiving recommendations from fellow pet owners! We will definitely do our research into Farmina Cold Pressed Pet Food!
I prefer to go for a cheaper mid range kibble as I mix their diet with raw, omega 369 caps from Dischem, krill oil, cottage cheese, fruit n veg that works out way cheaper and healthier for my dog. It’s time consuming but then again, that’s the whole reason to have a fur baby.
Hi Yasheen, It’s fantastic that you’re dedicated to providing a healthier diet while being mindful of costs. Your commitment to your fur baby’s well-being is admirable, even if it does require some extra time and effort.
I tried some of the brands mentioned. But my jack Russel coat started looking dull. I changed to Bob tail and his overall look has improved and is more energetic. He managed a run after my car at about 40km per hour for about a kilometer.
Hi Alida, I appreciate your input on different the dog food brands. It’s good to hear that switching to Bob tail has positively impacted your Jack Russell’s coat and energy levels.Dogs can react differently to various diets, so finding the right fit is important for their well-being.
Can you do a review on Lionels Choice
I always go for Royal Canin and we happy
We’re glad to know that you and your furry friend are happy with it.
Thank you so much for such helpful information about pets food.
Got more knowledge now
Hi Tshepo,
We are so glad this article was helpful to you!
So helpful
Happy to help!
Thank you so much for such helpful information about pets food.
Eumenuba is the best.
Hey there! Thanks for letting us know! Your feedback is important to us. Please review Eukanuba here, to help other pet owners make the best nutritional decision for their pets!
Montego was the best decision ever, love it for mg dog.