Get

In Your Inbox

Dogster is reader-supported. When you buy via links on our site, we may earn an affiliate commission at no cost to you. Learn more.

9 Best Venison Dog Foods in 2025 – Reviews & Top Picks

Dog food in a bowl

Dog food in a bowl If you have a dog that loves meat, then feeding them venison-based dog food is a great idea. Not only is venison a lean and nutritious protein source, but it’s also a delicious way to keep your pup happy and healthy.

When shopping for the best venison dog food, it’s important to look for products that are made with high-quality ingredients and feature a balance of nutrients. Venison should be listed as one of the primary protein sources on the ingredient label, and the food should also contain other nutrient-rich ingredients like vegetables, fruits, and whole grains.

To help you find the best venison dog food for your furry friend, we’ve rounded up 9 of our favorites below.

Dogster divider_v1_NEW_MAY_24_

A Quick Look at Our Favorites in 2025

Rating Image Product Details
Best Overall
Winner
Nature's Logic Canine Venison Meal Feast Nature's Logic Canine Venison Meal Feast
  • All natural ingredients
  • High protein content
  • No fillers or by-products
  • Best Value
    Second place
    Purina ONE Natural True Instinct Purina ONE Natural True Instinct
  • Inexpensive
  • High protein
  • Real turkey and venison as first ingredients
  • Premium Choice
    Third place
    Forza10 Legend New Zealand Dry Dog Food Forza10 Legend New Zealand Dry Dog Food
  • High protein
  • Real lamb and venison as first ingredients
  • Grain-free
  • Best for Puppies
    Taste Of The Wild High Prairie Puppy Food Taste Of The Wild High Prairie Puppy Food
  • High protein
  • Contains DHA
  • Formulated for the needs of puppies
  • Hill's Prescription Diet d/d Hill's Prescription Diet d/d
  • High-quality ingredients
  • No additives
  • Formulated for dogs with allergies
  • The 9 Best Venison Dog Foods

    1. Nature’s Logic Canine Venison Dry Food – Best Overall

    Nature's Logic Canine Venison Dry Food

    Main ingredients: Venison meal, peas, potatoes
    Protein content: 30%
    Fat content: 17%
    Calories: 360 per cup

    Nature’s Logic Canine Venison Meal is the best overall venison dog food because it is an all-natural food with no fillers or by-products. The venison meal is the first ingredient, and it is a high-quality protein source. This food also has a 30% protein content, which is higher than most other brands. The fat content is 17%, which is about average for dry dog food. This food also has a moderate calorie content of 360 per cup. The downside is that it is pricier than a lot of other brands, and it’s not as widely available.

    Pros
    • All natural ingredients
    • High protein content
    • No fillers or by-products
    Cons
    • Higher price point
    • Not widely available

    2. Purina ONE Natural True Instinct Dog Food – Best Value

    Purina ONE Natural True Instinct Dog Food

    Main ingredients: Turkey, Venison
    Protein content: 30%
    Fat content: 17%
    Calories: 387 per cup

    Purina ONE Natural True Instinct is the best venison dog food for the money because, despite its low price, it’s still a high-protein food made with real turkey and venison as the first two ingredients. The kibble is also free of artificial flavors, colors, and preservatives. It contains 30% protein which is a good amount for working dogs, as well as a moderate amount of fat. Some dogs may find the kibble a bit hard to chew, and some owners complain about excessive shedding after switching to this food.

    Pros
    • Inexpensive
    • High protein
    • Real turkey and venison as first ingredients
    Cons
    • Some dogs find the kibble hard to chew
    • May cause excessive shedding

    3. Forza10 Legend New Zealand Dry Food – Premium Choice

    Forza10 Legend New Zealand Dry Food

    Main ingredients: Lamb, Venison
    Protein content: 34%
    Fat content: 15%
    Calories: 420 per cup

    Forza10 Legend New Zealand Lamb with Venison Grain-Free Dry Dog Food is the premium choice because it’s a high-protein food made with lamb and venison as the first two ingredients. The kibble is also grain-free and free of artificial flavors, colors, and preservatives. This food is a good choice for dogs who are active or working dogs. Some dogs may find the kibble a bit hard to chew. Also note that a grain-free diet is not necessary for all dogs, so be sure to talk to your vet before switching to this food.

    Pros
    • High protein
    • Real lamb and venison as first ingredients
    • Grain-free
    Cons
    • Some dogs find the kibble hard to chew
    • Grain-free food is not necessary for all dogs

    4. Taste of the Wild Dry Puppy Food – Best for Puppies

    Taste of the Wild Dry Puppy Food

    Main ingredients: Venison, Lamb Meal
    Protein content: 32%
    Fat content: 17%
    Calories: 418 per cup

    Taste of the Wild High Prairie Puppy Formula Grain-Free Dry Dog Food is the best for puppies or kittens because it’s a high-protein food made with real venison and lamb meal as the first two ingredients. The kibble is also grain-free and free of artificial flavors, colors and preservatives. This food is a good choice for puppies, especially those that are intolerant of other protein sources. This food also contains DHA, which helps with healthy brain development. It’s a bit high in calories for puppy food, so make sure not to overfeed your puppy. Some owners also complain about how this food smells.

    Pros
    • High protein
    • Contains DHA
    • Formulated for the needs of puppies
    Cons
    • High in calories
    • Some people reported that this food has a strong odor

    5. Hill’s Prescription Diet d/d Dry Dog Food

    Hill's Prescription Diet d/d Dry Dog Food

    Main ingredients: Potato, Venison
    Protein content: 21%
    Fat content: 8%
    Calories: 360 per cup

    Hill’s Prescription Diet Potato & Venison Dry Dog Food is the diet dry dog food choice because it is a hypoallergenic food formulated to help dogs with skin and food sensitivities. The formula is made from high-quality ingredients and is easily digestible. Some dogs may not find the taste of this food as appealing as other flavor options, especially if they’ve never tried venison. This brand also requires a prescription from a veterinarian, and it is a bit more expensive than other brands.

    Pros
    • High-quality ingredients
    • No additives
    • Formulated for dogs with allergies
    Cons
    • Requires a prescription from a veterinarian
    • Pricier than other brands

    6. Solid Gold Sensitive Stomach Grain-Free Dry Dog Food

    Solid Gold Sensitive Stomach Grain-Free Dry Dog Food

    Main ingredients: Venison, Potato, Pumpkin
    Protein content: 24%
    Fat content: 10%
    Calories: 350 per cup

    Solid Gold Buck Sensitive Stomach Grain-Free Wild Venison, Potato & Pumpkin Dry Dog Food is a good choice for dogs with sensitive stomachs because it is made with easy-to-digest ingredients like venison, potato, and pumpkin. It’s great for dogs that can’t eat other common protein sources found in dog food, such as chicken or beef. This food is also grain-free and fortified with vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants. Some senior dogs may find the kibble a bit hard to chew, and some owners complain that this food is more expensive than other brands.

    Pros
    • Easy-to-digest ingredients
    • Great for dogs with sensitive stomachs
    • Fortified with vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants
    Cons
    • Some dogs find the kibble hard to chew
    • More expensive than other brands

    7. NUTRO Limited Ingredient Diet Grain-Free Dry Dog Food

    NUTRO Limited Ingredient Diet Grain-Free Dry Dog Food

    Main ingredients: Venison, Sweet Potato
    Protein content: 25%
    Fat content: 10.5%
    Calories: 362 per cup

    NUTRO Limited Ingredient Diet Grain-Free Adult Venison & Sweet Potato Dry Dog Food is another good choice for dogs with allergies or sensitivities because it is made with limited ingredients that are easy to digest. This food is also grain-free and has a good fat and protein content, as well as a low-calorie content. The downside is that this food may not have enough protein or calories for really active dogs and grain-free diets aren’t appropriate for all dogs.

    Pros
    • Limited ingredients
    • Easy to digest
    • Good protein and fat content
    Cons
    • May not be suitable for active dogs
    • Grain-free diets aren’t appropriate for all dogs

    8. Evanger’s Venison & Beef Dinner Canned Dog Food

    Evanger's Venison & Beef Dinner Canned Dog Food

    Main ingredients: Venison, Beef
    Protein content: 10%
    Fat content: 7%
    Calories: 368 per cup

    Evanger’s Venison & Beef Dinner Grain-Free Canned Dog Food is a good choice for dogs who need a grain-free diet. This food is also fortified with vitamins and minerals, and some dogs find the taste more appealing than other venison-based foods. It’s also easier for senior dogs to eat since it is a canned food. However, this food is more expensive than other brands of wet food, and some dogs may not like the texture of the chunks in gravy.

    Pros
    • Great for senior dogs
    • Some dogs find the taste more appealing than other venison-based foods
    Cons
    • More expensive than other brands
    • Some dogs may not like the texture of the chunks in gravy

    9. Go! SENSITIVITIES Limited Ingredient Dry Dog Food

    Go! SENSITIVITIES Limited Ingredient Dry Dog Food

    Main ingredients: Venison, Potato
    Protein content: 26%
    Fat content: 10%
    Calories: 377 per cup

    Go! SENSITIVITIES Limited Ingredient Venison Grain-Free Dry Dog Food is a good choice for dogs with allergies or sensitivities because it is made with limited ingredients that are easy to digest. This food is lower in protein than other foods but also lower in fat and calories, which is good for overweight dogs. It’s also a bit more expensive than other foods.

    Pros
    • Limited ingredients
    • Great for overweight dogs
    Cons
    • Lower in protein
    • More expensive than other brands

    Dogster divider_v3_NEW_MAY_24_

    Buyer’s Guide: Picking the Best Venison Dog Food

    What Do I Look for In a High-Quality Venison Dog Food?

    When choosing venison dog food, it is important to look for a product that is made with high-quality ingredients, and that contains the right balance of nutrients for your dog. Here are some things to keep in mind:

    • Ingredients: The first ingredient on the label should be venison, and the food should contain other protein sources such as beef, chicken, or fish. The food should also be grain-free and contain no artificial preservatives, flavors, or colors.
    • Nutrition: Venison dog food should be formulated to provide the right balance of protein, fat, carbohydrates, vitamins, and minerals for your dog. It is also important to choose a food that is appropriate for your dog’s life stage (puppy, adult, or senior).
    • Price: Venison dog food is typically more expensive than other types of dog food, so be sure to compare prices before you buy. You may also want to look for coupons or special offers from online retailers.
    pug dog eating from feeding bowl
    Image by: Tanya Dol, Shutterstock

    What Are the Benefits of Feeding My Dog Venison?

    Venison is a lean source of protein that is low in fat and calories. It is also an excellent source of essential nutrients such as vitamins B6 and B12, iron, selenium, and zinc. In addition, venison is a hypoallergenic protein source that is less likely to cause digestive problems than other types of meat.

    How Much Venison Dog Food Should I Feed My Dog?

    The amount of venison dog food you should feed your dog will depend on his or her age, activity level, and weight. Be sure to follow the feeding recommendations on the product label. If you are unsure how much to feed your dog, ask your veterinarian for advice.

    How Often Should I Feed My Dog Venison Dog Food?

    Venison dog food can be fed daily as part of a balanced diet. If you are feeding your dog a raw diet, it is important to consult with a veterinary nutritionist to ensure that the diet is complete and balanced.

    Can I Feed My Dog Venison Dog Food If He or She Has Allergies?

    If your dog has allergies, it is important to choose a venison dog food that is made with limited ingredients and that does not contain any potential allergens. You should also avoid feeding your dog any table scraps or bones, as these can trigger an allergic reaction.

    dachshund dog eating from elevated bowl
    Image by: marialevkina, Shutterstock

    Do I Need to Give My Dog Any Supplements If I Feed Him or Her Venison Dog Food?

    No, venison dog food is a complete and balanced diet that does not require any additional supplements. However, if you are feeding your dog a raw diet, you may need to give him or her a vitamin B12 supplement.

    How Do I Store Venison Dog Food?

    Venison dog food should be stored in a cool, dry place. Once opened, the food should be used within two months. If you are feeding your dog a raw diet, the food should be stored in the freezer and thawed as needed.

    What Are the Different Types of Venison Dog Food?

    Venison dog food is available in dry, canned, and raw formulas. Dry food is the most convenient option and can be stored at room temperature. Canned food is easy to transport and can be fed directly from the can. Raw food must be stored in the freezer and thawed as needed.

    What Are the Pros and Cons of Venison Dog Food?

    Venison dog food has a number of advantages over other types of dog food. It is a lean source of protein that is low in fat and calories, and it is also an excellent source of essential nutrients. In addition, venison is a hypoallergenic protein source that is less likely to cause digestive problems than other types of meat. However, venison dog food is typically more expensive than other types of dog food, so be sure to compare prices before you buy.

    You may also want to look for coupons or special offers from online retailers.

    Dogster divider_v1_NEW_MAY_24_

    FAQ

    When choosing a venison dog food, it is important to consider your dog’s individual needs. If your dog has allergies or sensitivities, you will want to choose a food that is made with limited ingredients and is easy to digest. If your dog needs a high-protein diet, you will want to choose a food that is high in protein and grain-free. You should also consider the cost of the food, as some brands are more expensive than others. Here are some other questions you may have:

    labrador retriever dog eating its food from a bowl
    Image Credit: Jaromir Chalabala, Shutterstock

    What is venison?

    Venison is a type of meat that comes from deer. It is a leaner alternative to beef and is high in protein and nutrients.


    Is venison good for dogs?

    Yes, venison is a healthy option for dogs. It is high in protein and nutrients and is a leaner alternative to beef.


    Are there any drawbacks to feeding my dog venison?

    Some dogs may be allergic to venison, and it is important to introduce it into their diet slowly to avoid gastrointestinal upset. Venison is also more expensive than some other types of dog food.


    How do I choose a good venison dog food?

    When choosing a venison dog food, it is important to consider your dog’s individual needs. If your dog has allergies or sensitivities, you will want to choose a food that is made with limited ingredients and is easy to digest. If your dog needs a high-protein diet, you will want to choose a food that is high in protein and grain-free. You should also consider the cost of the food, as some brands are more expensive than others.


    Where can I buy venison dog food?

    Venison dog food is available at most pet stores and online retailers.


    What is the best venison dog food?

    The best venison dog food is the one that meets your dog’s individual needs. If your dog has allergies or sensitivities, you will want to choose a food that is made with limited ingredients and is easy to digest. If your dog needs a high-protein diet, you will want to choose a food that is high in protein and grain-free. You should also consider the cost of the food, as some brands are more expensive than others.

    close up of a dog eating from the bowl
    Image Credit: Dmytro Zinkevych, Shutterstock

    How will I know if my dog is allergic to venison?

    If your dog has any adverse reaction to venison, such as vomiting or diarrhea, it is important to consult with your veterinarian. They can perform allergy testing to determine if your dog is allergic to venison or any other ingredients in the food.


    Is venison dog food grain-free?

    Some brands of venison dog food are grain-free, while others contain grains such as rice or oats. It is important to read the ingredient list on the food label to determine if the food contains grain.


    Is venison dog food high in protein?

    Yes, venison is a high-protein meat that is perfect for dogs who need a high-protein diet.


    Are there any other benefits to feeding my dog venison?

    In addition to being a healthy source of protein, venison is also a good source of omega-3 fatty acids, which are beneficial for your dog’s skin and coat.


    How do I change my dog’s diet?

    If you are thinking about switching your dog’s food to a venison-based diet, there are a few things you should keep in mind. First, it is important to introduce the new food slowly to avoid gastrointestinal upset. Start by mixing a small amount of venison into your dog’s current food, and gradually increase the amount over time. It is also important to choose a food that is high in protein and grain-free, as these will be the most easily digestible for your dog. Finally, be sure to compare prices before you buy, as some brands of venison dog food can be more expensive than others.

    Our Selection Process For Venison Dog Foods

    To create this buyer’s guide, our writing team and editorial staff checked customer reviews, brand reputation, and veterinary approval ratings to present the dog foods we think should be highlighted for our readers. In some cases, we conducted hands-on testing along with seeing how much our dogs liked the dog foods. All these factors were considered when selecting these listed dog foods to help you make the best purchase for your furry friends.

    Why Trust Dogster?

    Since 2004, Dogster has been a trusted brand for dog owners online, which means we have a lot of experience with dog foods. We take pride in promoting the well-being of all dogs—from toy breeds to giant canines. Our in-house veterinarians, writers, and editors examine each product on our lists, ensuring its quality and reputation. As pet owners ourselves, we only want the best for our furry companions. At Dogster, we are transparent about the products we promote. The nutritional information, overall brand reputation, and customer reviews are all considered for these lists. We inform you how we want to be informed.

    Dogster divider_v1_NEW_MAY_24_

    Summary

    For the best overall, choose Nature’s Logic Canine Venison Formula. This dry food is made with high-quality ingredients, including venison and potatoes, and is free of artificial colors, flavors, and preservatives. For the best value, choose Purina Pro Plan Savor Shredded Blend Venison & Rice Formula. This food is made with real venison and brown rice and is a great option for dogs who need a high-protein diet.

    Our premium choice is Wellness CORE Natural Grain Free Dry Dog Food. This food is made with venison and other lean proteins and is grain-free and free of artificial colors, flavors, and preservatives. Finally, our diet dry dog food choice is Hill’s Science Diet Venison & Potato Formula. This food is made with real venison and chicken and is grain-free and free of artificial colors, flavors, and preservatives.


    Featured Image Credit: 279photoStudio, Shutterstock

    How useful was this post?

    Click on a star to rate (you can leave written feedback after clicking submit)

    Help us improve Dogster for pet parents!

    Your feedback really matters.

    What did you like about this post? Also how can we improve it?

    Join the conversation

    Leave a Reply

    You’re very welcome to leave a comment or question. Please know that all comments must meet our community guidelines, and your email address will NOT be published. Let’s have a positive and constructive conversation.

    Talk With A Vet Online

    Peace of mind,
    anywhere, anytime

    Affordable vet advice

    Why Are My Dog’s Anal Glands Leaking? Our Vet Explains

    Nobody ever said that dog ownership was glamorous, and the very existence of anal glands in dogs can be a consistent reminder of...

    15 Vet-Reviewed Shiba Inu Facts That You Might Not Know

    Shiba Inus have become more widely recognized with the rise of the internet and people having increased exposure to various dog breeds around...

    National Brown Dog Day 2025: When It Is & How It’s Celebrated

    National Brown Dog Day is one of the lesser-known days to celebrate throughout the year. It falls on February 2nd each year, and...

    How to Hire a Dog Walker: 5 Vet-Approved Steps & What to Ask

    Whether you’re going on a trip out of town or working long hours, a dog walker can be an immense help with making...

    More related

    6 Best Dog Foods for Shiba Inus in 2025 – Reviews & Top Picks

    As with most pets, the Shiba Inu is at its healthiest when eating high-quality dog food that is specially designed to meet its...

    Kodah’s Enormous Furry Lump: Should Dr. Karyn Be Worried?

    Hi, I’m Dr. Karyn! Read my introduction to learn more about me and my five funny dogs, Poppy, Bailey, Kodah, Ned, and Fred....

    3 Amazing Portuguese Water Dog Haircuts (With Pictures)

    With curly hair and a single hypoallergenic coat like the Poodle, the Portuguese Water Dog doesn’t shed. The trade-off is that they require...

    8 Tips to Find Pet Friendly Housing for You and Your Pup (2025 Guide)

    Renting a house or apartment with four-legged roommates can be extremely difficult -- read our tips to help increase your chances....

    Keep reading

    Only Natural Pet Dog Food Review 2025: Recalls, Pros & Cons

    Review Summary If you’re interested in grain-free dog foods that come in multiple recipes and varieties, then dog food from Only Natural Pet may be exactly what you’re looking for. Whether you prefer to feed your dog an ancestral diet...

    Dogster_Only Natural Pet Dog Food Review

    Can Dogs Eat Raw Chicken? Vet-Verified Dietary Facts & FAQ

    Chicken is a common and healthy ingredient in many dog foods, and plenty of pet parents love to feed their dogs plain-cooked chicken. If you’ve been considering feeding plain chicken to your dog, you may have wondered whether you can...

    Can Dogs Eat Raw Chicken

    Can Dogs Eat Parsnips? Vet-Verified Nutrition Facts, Risks & Serving Tips

    Parsnips may have a small fan club. They aren’t as popular as other vegetables in the Apiaceae family, such as carrots and celery. Some think the former are sweeter, but parsnips have a slight edge. Nevertheless, these vegetables pack a...

    Dogster-Can-Dogs-Eat-Parsnips

    8 Best Dog Foods for Shelties in 2025 – Reviews & Top Picks

    Renowned for their intelligence, athleticism, and sweetness, Shetland Sheepdogs—also known as “Shelties”—have qualities in abundance that make them such a hit with dog lovers the world over. Luckily, like many small breeds, Shelties have a long lifespan. Nevertheless, the breed...

    Shetland sheepdog eats food from a food bowl

    Instinct Dog Food Review 2025: Recalls, Pros & Cons

    Review Summary Instinct Dog Food is made by Nature’s Variety, a brand that’s been in operation since 2002, specializing in holistic pet food. None of its formulas contains wheat, corn, by-product meals, or artificial colors or flavors. The Instinct Raw...

    Dogster_Instinct Dog Food Review

    Can Dogs Eat Teriyaki Sauce? Vet Reviewed Nutrition Facts & FAQ

    Teriyaki sauce can spice up many of our meals. However, while it is tasty, it isn’t safe for our canines. Teriyaki sauce contains many ingredients and spices—some of which may be toxic to dogs. For instance, this sauce often includes...

    Can Dogs Eat_teriyaki sauce

    Can Dogs Eat Wheat Thins? Vet-Approved Nutrition Advice

    Wheat Thins is a popular brand of crackers often advertised as healthy snacks. They are baked whole-wheat crisps that are relatively low in calories and often paired with other food items like dips or sliced meat. While Wheat Thins are...

    Can Dogs Eat_wheat thins

    Can Dogs Eat Edamame Beans? Vet-Verified Nutrition Facts, Benefits & More

    Our canine companions always want some of whatever we’re eating, no matter what it is. And while it’s fine to feed your pet a bite of your food occasionally, it shouldn’t be done often, and you shouldn’t do so with...

    Dogster-Can-Dogs-Eat-Edamame Beans