How we review
Every grade on this site comes from the same five-part workup. No mystery scores, no pay-to-play placement.
1. AAFCO statement check
Is the food complete and balanced for a stated life stage — and was it proven by formulation or by feeding trials? Trial-backed foods score higher. Anything without a statement cannot be graded and is not recommended.
2. Dry-matter nutrition math
We convert guaranteed analysis to dry-matter protein, fat, and estimated carbs so kibble, wet, and mixed lines compare honestly. Macronutrient fit for the target dog (puppy, adult, senior) is scored against veterinary nutrition references.
3. Ingredient-list reading
Named animal proteins and fats score well; vague meals and fats do not. We penalize ingredient splitting and reward transparent sourcing — while ignoring decorative marketing terms, per our label guide.
4. Recall and manufacturer history
We look up each brand's recall record and manufacturing depth. A spotless decade counts; a pattern of contamination or a brand-new co-packer with no track record counts against.
5. Cost per day
Bag price lies; feeding cost does not. We compute typical daily cost for a reference 40-lb adult from feeding guidelines and street pricing, because a great food you cannot afford is not a great recommendation.
What we are not
We are reviewers, not veterinarians. Grades describe food quality, not medical advice — dogs with kidney, allergy, or cardiac conditions need vet-directed diets, and our grades say so wherever it matters.