The Best Food to Feed Your Dog — and the Harmful Foods to Avoid 

Why Good Nutrition Matters for Dogs

Just like humans, dogs thrive on a balanced diet filled with essential nutrients.

Dogs need:



• High-quality protein for muscle development
• Healthy fats for energy and skin health
• Carbohydrates for digestion
• Vitamins and minerals for immune function
• Amino acids such as taurine for heart health

Feeding high-quality dog food isn’t just about avoiding illness — it boosts your dog's lifespan, coat shine, joint health, digestion, and energy.

With so many dogs in Australia experiencing allergies, obesity, and gut issues, choosing the right food makes a huge difference.

THE BEST FOOD TO FEED YOUR DOG (AUSTRALIA EDITION)

Below are the most recommended and nutritionally beneficial options to include in your dog’s diet.

We cover kibble, raw feeding, cooked meals, fresh food brands, and individual healthy ingredients.

1. High-Quality Commercial Dog Food

When choosing the best dog food in Australia, always look for brands that:

• List a real meat protein as the first ingredient
• Avoid fillers like corn, soy, or unnamed meat meals
• Contain omega-3s (from fish oil or flaxseed)
• Are AAFCO-approved for complete and balanced nutrition

Top-quality Australian dog food brands include:

• Ziwi Peak – air-dried, high-protein, premium
• Meals for Mutts – ideal for allergies and sensitive stomachs
• Black Hawk – Australian-made, balanced nutrition
• Lyka – fresh, human-grade subscription meals
• Petzyo – affordable, natural, and Aussie-made
• Ivory Coat – grain-free and premium ingredients

These brands consistently rank among best dry dog food Australia and best fresh dog food Australia based on quality ingredients and nutritional profiles.

2. Raw Feeding (BARF Diet)

The BARF diet (Biologically Appropriate Raw Food) has become extremely popular, especially among active breeds. When done correctly and with veterinary guidance, raw feeding can deliver exceptional nutrition.

Raw diets typically include:

• Raw beef, chicken, turkey, kangaroo, and lamb
• Meaty bones (never cooked!)
• Organ meats (liver, kidney, heart)
• Vegetables (blended)
• Fruit in moderation
• Eggs
• Fish

Benefits of raw dog food:

• Healthier coat and skin
• Higher energy levels
• Smaller, firmer stools
• Improved digestion
• Stronger teeth and gums

Popular raw feeding brands in Australia:

• Big Dog Raw Food
• Proudi
• Prime100 Raw
• BARF Australia

Important: Raw feeding must be balanced — too much bone or organ meat can cause serious health issues.

Consult your vet or a canine nutritionist before transitioning fully.

3. Fresh Cooked Meals (Homemade Dog Food)

Cooking meals for your dog is a great way to control ingredients and quality. Fresh dog food is becoming a leading trend thanks to brands that deliver human-grade meals.

Healthy homemade dog food ingredients:

• Lean meats (chicken, turkey, lamb, beef)
• Low-GI carbs (sweet potato, brown rice, oats)
• Fibre-rich vegetables (pumpkin, zucchini, spinach)
• Healthy fats (olive oil, flaxseed, fish oil)

Benefits of cooked dog food:

• Easier to digest
• Great for dogs with allergies
• Full control over additives and preservatives

Top Australian fresh dog food services:

• Lyka
• Scratch (fresh kibble alternative)
• The Wholesome Dog
• Butternut Box (coming to AU markets)

These services often rank in searches like best fresh dog food Australia and healthy dog meals.

4. Healthy Whole Foods You Can Add to Your Dog’s Diet

If you prefer kibble or raw feeding but want to boost nutrition, supplement with safe whole foods.

Healthy foods dogs can eat include:

Lean Proteins

• Chicken (cooked)
• Turkey
• Beef
• Kangaroo (low-fat, ideal for allergies)
• Salmon and sardines (omega-3 rich)

Vegetables

• Carrots
• Broccoli
• Green beans
• Pumpkin
• Zucchini
• Spinach

Fruits

• Blueberries
• Apples (no seeds)
• Watermelon (no seeds or rind)
• Banana (in moderation)

Healthy Oils

• Fish oil
• Coconut oil
• Flaxseed oil

Superfoods for dogs:

• Pumpkin (excellent for gut health)
• Blueberries (antioxidants)
• Turmeric (anti-inflammatory)
• Kefir (probiotics)

These rank highly in “healthy foods for dogs” and “what can dogs eat Australia” search queries.

FOODS YOU SHOULD NEVER FEED YOUR DOG!

Many dog owners don’t realise how many everyday foods are toxic or dangerous.

The list below contains common human foods that can make dogs extremely sick — or even be fatal.

1. Chocolate

One of the most common causes of dog poisoning in Australia.
Chocolate contains theobromine and caffeine, both toxic to dogs.

The darker the chocolate, the more dangerous it is.

Symptoms include:
Vomiting, diarrhoea, tremors, seizures, rapid heart rate, death.

2. Grapes and Raisins

Even small amounts can cause acute kidney failure.

Toxic foods list for dogs consistently ranks grapes and raisins as some of the most dangerous.

Avoid:

• Grapes
• Sultanas
• Raisins
• Hot cross buns
• Muesli bars
• Raisin bread

3. Onions and Garlic

Onions and garlic damage red blood cells and can cause life-threatening anaemia.

Avoid:

• Raw onion
• Cooked onion
• Garlic
• Onion powder
• Garlic powder
• Gravies, soups, and take-away food

4. Avocado

Contains persin, which can cause vomiting, diarrhoea, and heart issues.
Avocado pits also cause choking and blockages.

5. Cooked Bones

Cooked bones splinter easily and can cause:

• Internal bleeding
• Choking
• Blockages
• Broken teeth

Stick to raw bones only, under supervision.

6. Alcohol

Even tiny amounts can cause:

• Coma
• Seizures
• Respiratory failure

Dogs cannot process alcohol at all.



7. Xylitol (Artificial Sweetener)

Found in:

• Sugar-free lollies
• Chewing gum
• Some peanut butter brands
• Diet desserts
• Protein powders
• Toothpaste

Causes instant insulin release → fatal hypoglycaemia.

8. Macadamia Nuts

A uniquely Australian danger.
Causes:

• Weakness
• Tremors
• Fever
• Vomiting

Even 3–4 nuts can poison a medium dog.



9. Caffeine

Found in:

• Coffee
• Energy drinks
• Tea
• Pre-workout supplements
• Chocolate

Can cause heart failure and seizures.

10. Human Medications

Never give your dog:

• Panadol
• Nurofen
• Aspirin
• Antidepressants
• Cold & flu tablets

These are some of the most common vet emergency cases.

What to Do If Your Dog Eats Something Toxic

If your dog eats any food from the dangerous foods list, act fast:

1. Call your vet immediately
2. Contact an Australian pet poison hotline (Animal Poisons Helpline: 1300 869 738)
3. Do not induce vomiting unless told to
4. Bring packaging, wrappers, or the food with you

Time matters — fast treatment saves lives.

How to Choose the Best Diet for Your Dog

Every dog is different, so the “best dog food” varies depending on factors like age, breed, size, activity level, allergies, and health conditions.

Puppies

• Need higher protein and fat
• Require DHA for brain development
• Should eat puppy-specific formulas

Adult Dogs

• Balanced diet for maintenance
• Moderate calories
• Good mix of protein, carbs, and fats

Senior Dogs

• Lower calories
• Higher fibre
• Joint support (glucosamine, fish oil)

Dogs with allergies

Best options:

• Kangaroo
• Duck
• Salmon
• Grain-free or hypoallergenic options (Meals for Mutts, Prime100)

Working and active dogs

• Higher protein
• Higher calories
• Raw or air-dried diets often ideal
  

Signs Your Dog May Need a Diet Change

If you notice any of the following, talk to your vet about switching foods:

• Itchy skin
• Hot spots
• Runny stools
• Constipation
• Ear infections
• Excessive shedding
• Low energy
• Bad breath
• Vomiting

Many Australian dogs have undiagnosed food sensitivities — often to chicken, beef, or grains.

Sample Weekly Feeding Plan for a Healthy Dog

Below is a simple, balanced plan that fits a “fresh food + kibble” diet.

Day 1–2

Premium kibble + cooked chicken + steamed pumpkin

Day 3–4

Fresh food subscription meal (Lyka/Petzyo)

Day 5

Raw sardines + vegetables + a small raw beef bone

Day 6

Cooked turkey mince + brown rice + spinach



Day 7

Kibble + scrambled eggs + blueberries

Adjust portions to suit your dog’s size and activity level.

Conclusion: A Healthy Diet Means a Healthier, Happier Dog

Choosing the best food for your dog doesn’t need to be overwhelming. Whether you prefer high-quality kibble, fresh dog food, raw diets, or a mix of everything, the key is balanced nutrition, natural ingredients, and avoiding toxic foods at all costs.

By understanding what dogs should eat and what foods are harmful, you’re giving your dog the best chance at a long, vibrant, healthy life.

In Australia — where allergies, obesity, and digestive issues are increasingly common — informed feeding decisions mean everything.