Best Grain Friendly Dog Food: The Power of Whole Grains

If you’ve ever stood in the food aisle wondering if your dog is somehow missing out by not being grain-free, you’re not alone. Learn about the pros and cons of grains and check out our 10 best grain-friendly dog foods of 2025.

Grain-friendly dog food is one of those phrases you see everywhere right now. Maybe your vet mentioned it, or you noticed it on a new bag of kibble and wondered what changed. In simple terms, grain-friendly or grain-inclusive dog food is any diet that includes healthy grains such as oats, rye, barley, or millet.

For a lot of dogs, these grains are not just “okay”. Actually, they’re genuinely useful. They help round out the bowl, support digestion, and keep your dog’s energy steady. In this post, we’ll break down when grain-friendly dog food makes sense, the benefits of dog food with grain, and some of the best whole-grain dog food options you can buy in Canada right now.

We’ll also walk through 10 of the best grain friendly dog foods, all available at Homes Alive Pets, so you can match the right recipe to your dog’s age, lifestyle, and picky habits.

Does My Dog Need Grain-Friendly Dog Food?

You might be surprised to learn that many dogs do really well on grain-inclusive food, and they love it.

There’s a big myth floating around that grains are “bad”. While grains can be used inappropriately (as can any other ingredient), the right type, quality, and quantity of grains can contribute to a diet that supports healthy digestion, skin and coat health, and healthy weight.

So, no, dogs don't need grain-inclusive dog food, but dogs can benefit from a diet that contains high-quality whole grains. It depends on their individual needs.

Benefits of Grains for Dogs

When people talk about gains in dog food, they focus on the calories and carbs, but grains can actually offer a wide range of nutritional benefits for dogs. When combined with appropriate animal proteins, healthy fats, and other nutrient-dense, real food ingredients, grains can contribute to a high-quality and wholesome diet for dogs of all ages.

Here’s what healthy grains for dogs can bring to the bowl:

• • Steady energy: Grains provide complex carbohydrates that help fuel your dog’s day. From morning zoomies to weekend hikes, they help keep your dog going without big ups and downs.
  • Digestive support: Many grains offer natural fibre, which helps keep stools regular and positively supports gut health.
  • Important micronutrients: Whole grains can add vitamins, minerals, and essential fatty acids that support skin, coat, and overall wellness.
  • Balanced calories: Grains help keep fat and calories in check compared to a diet that leans too heavily on meat and fat. Instead, you create a balance for your pup.

You don’t need to become a grain expert, but knowing the difference between a whole grain and a cheap filler can make choosing a bag a lot less stressful.

The key is always quality. Whole-grain dog food that uses ingredients like oats, brown rice, barley, or millet is very different from a budget food stuffed with low-quality fillers. The brands we’ll highlight below lean on thoughtfully chosen grains that support your dog’s body instead of just filling the bag with ingredients that have very little nutritional value.

Addressing Common Concerns and Myths About Grains

Let’s tackle a few of the most common worries you’ll see online about grain-friendly dog foods.

Grains are just cheap fillers

This one shows up all the time, but veterinary nutritionists disagree. Whole grains are not “empty calories.” They add fibre, energy, and micronutrients that many dogs genuinely benefit from and adore.

The idea that all grains are useless filler is more marketing than science. Instead, focus on quality and quantity. Moderate levels of premium whole grains add nutrients, while split and heavily processed grains can indicate some amount of filler in the food.

My dog is allergic to grains

Studies and veterinary clinics consistently report that when dogs do have food allergies, they’re usually reacting to proteins like beef, chicken, or dairy and not grains in the dog food. Grain allergies do exist, but they’re quite rare.

A common gut response to managing allergies is to switch to a grain-free food. While this sometimes does produce desired results, it does not mean that grains were the trigger. Rather, quality, protein types, and digestibility can contribute to suspected allergic reactions.

Grain-free is healthier

Not strictly. Grain-free vs grain-inclusive is more often a preference. Both offer benefits, and the choice comes down to your dog's individual needs. Both options can be healthy when crafted with high-quality ingredients and a focus on premium animal proteins.

So, if you’ve been stressing about whether you “should” go grain-free, then know that unless your dog has specific health concerns or your vet is recommending a specific or prescription diet, then healthy, whole-grain dog foods are safe.

Best Types of Grains for Dogs

Not all grains look the same on a label, and that’s okay. A balanced dog kibble with grains might use a mix of different options to get the best blend of fibre, energy, and texture in its ingredient formula.

Common healthy grains for dogs include:

• • Oats: Gentle on the stomach and a great source of soluble fibre.
  • Brown rice: Familiar, easy to digest, and often recommended for sensitive tummies.
  • Barley: Fibre-rich and supports healthy digestion.
  • Millet & sorghum: Often used in higher-quality foods as gluten-free, nutrient-dense grains.

Even some refined grains, like white rice, can be useful in the right context (think bland diets for upset stomachs), but for everyday feeding, many pet parents prefer formulas that are brimming with wholesome, less processed grains.

Look out for ingredient splitting. Parts of grains are sometimes listed separately in the ingredient list, and while they may be different parts of the same whole, it can indicate a more carbohydrate-heavy formula. Instead, seek out foods that use healthy, whole grains.

10 Best Grain-Friendly Dog Foods of 2025

All right, let’s get into specific foods. Below are 10 of the best grain friendly dog food options available at Homes Alive Pets in 2025, each with its own sweet spot for grain-friendly food depending on your dog’s age, size, and lifestyle.

1. Orijen Amazing Grains Dog Food

Best Grain-Friendly High Protein Dog Food

If you love the idea of a high-meat, biologically appropriate diet but don’t want to go grain-free, Orijen Amazing Grains Dog Food is that middle ground that you’ve been seeking.

These recipes are absolutely packed with fresh or raw animal proteins and then rounded out with carefully selected, fibre-rich grains to support digestion and overall health.

Great for:

• • Active dogs who burn a lot of calories
  • Pet parents who want a meat-rich bowl with added digestive support
  • Dogs that do well on higher protein diets with balanced grains

2. Carna4 Easy-Chew Dog Food

Best Grain-Friendly Dog Food for Picky Dogs

Carna4 Easy-Chew Dog Food is one of those brands that quietly builds a cult following of loyal dog owners who want the best for their furry friend. The Easy-Chew formulas are gently baked and air-dried, creating small, soft nuggets that are easier for picky eaters, small dogs, and seniors to crunch.

Why people love it:

• • 100% whole food ingredients, no synthetic vitamins added
  • Naturally occurring enzymes and probiotics from sprouted seeds
  • Texture that’s easier for finicky dogs or those with dental issues

If your dog turns their nose up at standard kibble, this is a grain-inclusive option worth trying.

3. The Honest Kitchen Whole Grain Dehydrated Dog Food

Best Grain-Friendly Dehydrated Dog Food

Want something a little closer to “home-cooked” without actually cooking? The Honest Kitchen Whole Grain Dehydrated Dog Food is a nice fit. This digestion-friendly recipe is great for sensitive tummies, picky eaters, and senior dogs. You just add warm water, stir, and serve for your furry friend.

Highlights:

• • Uses human-grade ingredients in carefully balanced recipes
  • Whole grains like oats or barley, paired with quality proteins
  • Great for dogs who prefer a softer, stew-like texture instead of dry kibble

It’s a good option if you like the idea of a fresh-style meal but still want the convenience of a pantry-friendly food.

4. Acana Healthy Grains

Best Canadian Dog Food With Grains

If you’re specifically hunting for grain friendly dog food Canada brands, Acana Healthy Grains should be high on your list of top choices. These recipes pair high-quality animal proteins (like fresh fish or poultry) with fibre-rich grains such as oats, sorghum, and millet.

Why it stands out:

• • Protein-first, with 60% animal ingredients in some recipes
  • Non-GMO, carefully selected grains
  • Multiple formulas for different life stages and preferences

It’s a solid everyday kibble if you want Canadian-made quality and balanced, grain-inclusive nutrition. Hop over to The Best Canadian-Made Dog Food for all our customer favourites.

5. Open Farm Ancient Grains Dry Dog Food

Best Grain-Friendly Dry Dog Food

Open Farm Ancient Grains Dry Dog Food is a favourite for pet parents who care deeply about sourcing and transparency when picking the best foods. Their Ancient Grains recipes use a combination of ethically sourced meat with grains such as oats, quinoa, and millet.

What you can expect:

• • Traceable ingredients and rigorous animal welfare standards
  • A nice balance of protein, fibre, and complex carbs
  • Multiple formulas (including options for different sizes and sensitivities)

If you want a kibble you can feel extra good about from an ethics standpoint, this is an excellent dog kibble with grains pick for your beloved doggo. 

6. Farmina Ancestral Grains Dog Food

Best Grain-Friendly Dog Food for Seniors

Senior dogs often need a bit more nuance in their diet. Aging dogs require controlled calories, joint support, and easy-to-digest ingredients. Farmina Ancestral Grains Dog Food line hits that balance well, especially with their senior formulas.

Why it’s great for older pups:

• • Uses moderate, well-balanced protein with digestible grains
  • Often includes functional ingredients to support joints, immune health, and digestion
  • Tends to be quite palatable, even for seniors who are starting to slow down

If your grey-faced furry friend is ready for a switch, this is a solid grain-inclusive option to discuss with your vet. Learn more about feeding your aging dog in the Best Dog Food for Senior Dogs.

7. Horizon Taiga Whole Grains Dog Food

Best Cheap Grain-Friendly Dog Food

“Cheap” here does not mean low quality; it means great value. Horizon Taiga Whole Grains Dog Food is a Canadian-made dog food that keeps costs reasonable while still using decent ingredients and whole grains.

Good reasons to try it:

• • Budget-friendly without dipping into ultra-low-quality filler territory
  • Uses whole grain carbohydrates for energy and fibre
  • Made in Canada, which many pet parents appreciate

If you’re feeding a big dog or a multi-dog household and need a more affordable dog food with grain, this one is worth a look. Check out our list of the 10 Best Affordable Dog Foods for more options.

8. Nutram Sound Dog Food

Best Grain-Friendly Dog Food for Large Breeds

Large breeds have specific needs that set them apart from their smaller counterparts. Things like joint health, controlled growth and weight, and big appetites. Nutram Sound Large Breed Dog Food formulas are built with that in mind, and big dogs love the food. 

What sets it apart:

• • Formulated specifically for large breed adults
  • Uses chicken and oatmeal for a mix of digestible protein and grains
  • Includes functional ingredients aimed at supporting joints, digestion, and overall wellness

If you’ve got a big dog who thrives on best grain inclusive dog food, this is truly a custom option instead of a one-size-fits-all kibble.

9. Go! Solutions Skin & Coat Care With Grains

Best Grain-Friendly Wet Dog Food

Not every dog loves dry kibble. Some need extra moisture, some are picky, and some just prefer a softer meal. Go! Solutions Skin & Coat Care With Grains offers wet recipes that still lean into healthy, grain-inclusive nutrition that your doggo will love. 

Why it’s a standout:

• • Extra moisture helps support hydration and can make it easier to eat
  • Formulated to support skin and coat with quality fats and nutrients
  • Grain-inclusive recipes, so you’re not forced into grain-free just to feed canned food

You can feed it as a complete meal or use it as a topper over another grain friendly dog food to boost flavour and texture.

10. Oven-Baked Tradition Dry Puppy Food

Best Grain-Friendly Puppy Food

Puppies need carefully balanced nutrition while they grow big and strong. A good grain-inclusive formula can absolutely meet those needs. Oven-Baked Tradition Dry Puppy Food is slowly baked rather than extruded, which creates a different texture and helps preserve flavour.

Puppy perks:

• • Made with chicken and grains to support steady growth and energy
  • Baked kibble texture that many puppies find very enticing
  • Balanced nutrients for developing bones, brains, and bodies

If you’re picking your puppy’s first whole-grain dog food, this is a perfect starting point to give your pup everything they need to thrive. 

Grain-Friendly Dog Food FAQs

Are grains bad for dogs?

For most dogs, grains are not bad. Most dogs can digest grains just fine, and grains can be a valuable source of energy, fibre, and nutrients. Grain allergies are uncommon and usually need to be diagnosed by your trusted vet. 

Should I switch from grain-free to grain-inclusive food?

This will depend on what your dog's individual needs are. If your dog is thriving on their current diet, then change is needed, but if you are trying to improve their health through diet, then a grain-inclusive choice may be a great option.

How do I transition to a new grain-friendly food?

When transitioning your pup to a grain-friendly food, you should mix a small amount of new food into your dog’s current diet. Over seven to 10 days, you should increase the percentage. Be aware that sudden changes in food can cause digestive upset, so take things slow. 

Is whole grain dog food always better?

Whole grain usually means less processed and more nutrient-dense food. That said, even some refined grains (like white rice) can have a place in certain diets, especially for sensitive stomachs. The overall quality and balance of the food matter more than a single ingredient, so you’ll need to factor all of this in when considering if grain dog food is better. 

Do all dogs need the same amount of grain?

Not all dogs need the same amount. A tiny senior lap dog and a young working dog won’t have the same calorie or carb needs. That’s why grain-friendly dog food formulas are tailored for different life stages, sizes, and activity levels. 

Wrapping It Up

Choosing the best grain friendly dog food isn’t about chasing whatever buzzword is on the bag this year. Instead, it’s about matching your dog’s real-life needs with quality ingredients and balanced nutrition.

The good news? You don’t have to figure it out from scratch.

Grain-inclusive diets can offer steady energy, better digestion, and a more rounded nutrient profile for many. It doesn’t matter if you’re leaning toward high-protein options like Orijen Amazing Grains, value-focused choices like Horizon Taiga, or Canadian-made favourites like Acana Healthy Grains and Nutram, you’ve got plenty of great grain-friendly dog food Canada options to choose from at Homes Alive Pets.