Best Grain-Free Dog Foods UK

Choosing the right dog food can be a little tricky, especially if your dog has health issues like stomach sensitivity, skin allergies, or dietary intolerances. That’s why we created DogFoodUK.com to provide UK dog owners with simple, informative, and helpful content about what to feed their dogs.

Grain-free dog food has become a key question in UK pet nutrition. Walk into any pet shop or visit Amazon UK and you’ll find a wide variety of grain-free options. But are these foods actually beneficial for your dog? And which options are worth the money?

Not every dog ​​food is right for your dog, and budget also matters. That’s why choosing the right dog food is a top priority for UK pet owners.

In this guide, we’ve selected the best grain-free dog foods available in the UK. We’ve researched, compared, and reviewed both dry kibble and wet food. It looks at ingredient quality, nutritional value, price, real customer feedback, and the science of grain-free diets, so you can understand DCM, dilated cardiomyopathy risk, and important discussions surrounding this topic and avoid compromising your dog’s health.

Because the less information you have about something, the greater the risk. So it’s important to understand what’s important for your dog, what science says about it, and which products on the market might be right for your dog.

Best Grain-Free Dog Foods UK

Many people are in a hurry and want quick answers, so we’ve compiled a comparison here. This will help you easily understand which dog food might be right for your dog.

We’ve selected the available options in the UK by category and topic. You can check out dog food in your local market based on your budget.

And if you prefer to buy online, Amazon UK is a good option. You can easily order dog food there too.

Category	Top Pick
Best overall grain-free dry	Eden 80/20 Dry Dog Food
Best grain-free wet	Forthglade Grain-Free Wet Dog Food
Best budget grain-free	Butcher’s Tripe Variety
Best for sensitive stomachs	Scrumbles Gut-Friendly
Best premium holistic	Lily’s Kitchen Grain-Free

What Does Grain-Free Dog Food Actually Mean?

Grain-free dog food is simple: a dog food formulation that doesn’t include common grains like wheat, corn, rice, barley, oats, or rye. Grain-free recipes use alternative carbohydrate sources, such as sweet potatoes, peas, lentils, potatoes, or chickpeas, instead.

It’s important to understand that grain-free doesn’t mean carbohydrate-free. Many grain-free dog foods still contain a significant portion of carbohydrates, simply coming from non-grain sources rather than grains. This is a common misconception among dog owners.

Grains in dog food aren’t inherently bad. In fact, grains like brown rice and oats can provide useful nutrients, including fiber, vitamins, and minerals.

The main purpose of grain-free foods is for dogs with a confirmed allergy or sensitivity to specific grains, most commonly wheat and corn.

According to FEDIAF (European Pet Food Industry Federation), grain-free pet foods can be nutritionally complete if they are formulated correctly. FEDIAF’s nutritional guidelines set the standard for pet food production in Europe, and reputable grain-free brands carefully follow these standards.

Is Grain-Free Food Better for Dogs?

Short Answer: It depends on your dog. Grain-free food is not automatically healthier or superior. Ingredient quality matters more than whether the food contains grains or not.

The Potential Benefits of Grain-Free Dog Food

Short Answer: It depends on your dog. Is grain-free food automatically healthier or superior? Ingredient quality matters more than whether the food contains grains or not.

• Chronic itchy skin or hot spots
• Recurring ear infections
• Excessive wind or bloating
• Loose stools or chronic diarrhoea
• Vomiting after meals
• Dull coat or excessive shedding

If your dog is showing these symptoms and the vet has ruled out other causes, switching to a grain-free diet may help. Some dogs simply digest grain-free recipes better, especially those with sensitive digestive systems.

Many grain-free dog foods also have a higher meat content, which seems closer to the dog’s ancestral diet. Dogs are omnivores, but their digestive systems are quite suitable for meat-based diets. Foods like Eden 80/20, which contain 80% meat, follow this approach.

DCM and Heart Health Concerns in Dogs

It would be irresponsible to ignore the DCM (dilated cardiomyopathy) concern when discussing grain-free dog food. In 2018, the US FDA began an investigation into a possible link between grain-free diets, especially those high in legumes like peas, lentils, and potatoes, and DCM in dogs.

However, it is crucial to understand the context:

• The FDA investigation was primarily US-focused and did not establish a definitive causal link
• The European perspective, as noted by FEDIAF, is that grain-free diets produced following European nutritional guidelines are generally safe
• The PDSA and RSPCA in the UK have not issued specific warnings against grain-free diets
• Many veterinary nutritionists believe the issue may be related to specific formulation problems rather than grain-free diets as a whole

PetMD recommends that dog owners choosing grain-free food should look for products that:

• Meet established nutritional standards (such as FEDIAF guidelines in Europe)
• Include taurine and L-carnitine in their ingredients
• Come from reputable manufacturers who conduct thorough feeding trials

Our recommendation: If your dog doesn’t have a diagnosed grain sensitivity, there isn’t strong evidence that grain-free food is healthier. If you choose grain-free, select a brand that follows FEDIAAF guidelines and includes adequate taurine levels. Always consult your vet before making major dietary changes.

When Should You Consider Grain-Free Dog Food?

Grain-free dog food is worth considering in several specific situations:

1. Confirmed Grain Allergies

If your vet has diagnosed your dog with a grain allergy, usually through an elimination diet, then a grain-free food is an appropriate choice. True grain allergies are actually not as common as many owners think. The RSPCA notes that protein sources such as chicken and beef are more common allergens in dogs than grains.

2. Recurring Digestive Issues

If your dog regularly experiences bloating, gas, loose stools, or vomiting, and the vet has ruled out other medical conditions, a grain-free trial may be worthwhile. Some dogs simply tolerate non-grain carbohydrates better.

3. Skin and Coat Problems

Persistent itching, redness, or a dull coat may sometimes be linked to dietary sensitivities. Grains are not always the culprit, but switching to a high-quality grain-free food can be part of an elimination trial, which helps identify the trigger.

4. Personal Preference

Some owners simply prefer to feed their dogs a diet that they believe is closer to the dog’s natural ancestral eating pattern. As long as the food meets FEDIAAF nutritional guidelines, this is a perfectly valid choice.

If you’re unsure whether grain-free is right for your dog, we always recommend talking to your vet first. You can also read our guide on how to switch dog food safely to make the transition smoothly.

Best Grain-Free Dry Dog Foods UK

Dry dog ​​food, aka kibble, remains the most popular choice for UK dog owners because it’s convenient, offers a longer shelf life, and usually costs less per day. These are our top grain-free dry picks, widely available in the UK.

1. Eden 80/20 Dry Dog Food — Best Overall

Eden has built a strong reputation in the UK for producing genuinely high-meat-content dog food. Their 80/20 range lives up to its name. It contains 80% meat and animal-derived ingredients, while the remaining 20% ​​comes from vegetables, botanicals, and essential nutrients.

Key features:

• 80% meat content (including fresh meat, dried meat, and animal fats)
• Completely grain-free — uses sweet potato as the main carbohydrate
• No artificial colours, flavours, or preservatives
• High protein content (typically around 38–40%)
• Available in multiple flavours: free-run chicken, lamb, fish, and working dog variants

Approximate cost per day: £1.20–1.80 for a medium dog (15–25kg)

Where to buy: Amazon UK, Eden’s own website, and selected independent pet shops

2. Lily’s Kitchen Grain-Free Dry Dog Food — Best Premium Holistic

Lily’s Kitchen is one of the UK’s best-known premium pet food brands. Their grain-free dry range is made from human-grade ingredients and follows a holistic approach to canine nutrition, meaning they don’t just look at basic nutritional minimums, but consider the dog’s overall health picture.

Key features:

• Human-grade meat and vegetables
• Grain-free recipes using sweet potato and potato
• Added botanical herbs for flavour and health benefits
• Contains prebiotics for digestive support
• Available in flavours including chicken, lamb, turkey, and fish

Approximate cost per day: £1.30–2.00 for a medium dog

3. Canagan Free-Run Chicken Dry Dog Food — Best Premium Alternative

Canagan is a British brand that produces grain-free dog food inspired by the ancestral diet of wolves. Their Free-Run Chicken recipe is one of their most popular offerings in the UK market.

Key features:

• Approximately 65% meat content including fresh chicken and dried chicken
• Grain-free with sweet potato as the primary carbohydrate
• Includes joint-supporting ingredients like glucosamine and chondroitin
• Added prebiotics MOS and FOS for gut health
• No artificial additives

Approximate cost per day: £1.10–1.60 for a medium dog

4. James Wellbeloved Hypoallergenic Grain-Free — Best for Allergies

James Wellbeloved has been a trusted name in the UK dog food market for decades, and their grain-free range furthers their hypoallergenic philosophy. This food uses a limited ingredient approach, which is ideal for dogs with known sensitivities or food intolerances.

Key features:

• Single source of animal protein per recipe (turkey, lamb, or fish)
• Grain-free with rice replaced by potato and pea protein
• Hypoallergenic formula designed to minimise allergic reactions
• Includes omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids for skin and coat health
• No artificial preservatives, colours, or flavours

Approximate cost per day: £0.90–1.40 for a medium dog

5. Wellness CORE Ocean Adult Original — Best for Omega-3

Wellness CORE Ocean is a fish-based grain-free dry food that is particularly rich in omega-3 fatty acids, making it an excellent choice for dogs with skin issues or inflammatory conditions.

Key features:

• Primary protein sources: salmon, whitefish, and menhaden fish meal
• Grain-free with potatoes and peas
• Very high in omega-3 fatty acids for skin, coat, and joint health
• Includes glucosamine for joint support
• Antioxidant-rich fruits and vegetables

Approximate cost per day: £1.40–2.10 for a medium dog

Best Grain-Free Wet Dog Foods UK

Wet dog food has a higher moisture content, which is beneficial for hydration, and many dogs prefer it over dry kibble. Below are our top grain-free wet food picks that are readily available in the UK.

1. Forthglade Grain-Free Wet Dog Food — Best Overall Wet

Forthglade is a Devon-based company that produces natural, gently steamed dog food. Their grain-free wet range is one of the most popular in the UK, and for good reason.

Key features:

• 75% meat content in every recipe
• Gently steamed to preserve nutrients (not heavily processed)
• Grain-free with sweet potato as the carbohydrate source
• No artificial additives, preservatives, or colours
• Available in chicken, turkey, lamb, salmon, and duck varieties

Approximate cost per day: £2.00–3.50 for a medium dog (2–3 trays)

2. Butcher’s Tripe Variety Grain-Free — Best Budget Wet

Butcher’s is a well-established UK brand, and their grain-free tripe variety offers excellent value for money. Tripe is naturally grain-free and highly digestible, making it a favourite among many dog owners.

Key features:

• 100% natural tripe as the primary ingredient
• Rich in natural enzymes and probiotics for gut health
• Grain-free and gluten-free
• Available in cans and trays
• Made in the UK

Approximate cost per day: £1.20–2.00 for a medium dog

3. Scrumbles Gut-Friendly Grain-Free Wet — Best for Digestive Health

Scrumbles is a UK brand that focuses specifically on gut health. Their grain-free wet food includes added probiotics, making it particularly suitable for dogs with sensitive digestive systems.

Key features:

• 70% meat content
• Added probiotic (Bacillus coagulans) for gut health support
• Grain-free with pumpkin as a digestive aid
• No artificial colours, flavours, or preservatives
• Vet-approved recipes

Approximate cost per day: £2.40–3.60 for a medium dog

Grain-Free vs Grain-Inclusive: Which Is Right for Your Dog?

This is one of the most common questions UK dog owners ask. The truth is that both grain-free and grain-inclusive diets can be nutritionally complete and healthy — the key is choosing a high-quality product regardless of which category it falls into.

Choose Grain-Free If:

• Your dog has a diagnosed grain allergy or intolerance
• Your dog experiences recurring digestive issues that may be linked to grains
• Your vet has specifically recommended a grain-free diet
• Your dog thrives on a grain-free diet (shiny coat, good energy, firm stools)

Choose Grain-Inclusive If:

• Your dog has no sensitivities to grains and tolerates them well
• You want a more affordable option (grain-inclusive foods are often cheaper)
• You prefer a food with whole grains for their fibre and nutrient benefits
• Your vet has advised against grain-free (for example, if your dog needs a specific therapeutic diet)

The most important factor is always the overall quality of the food. A high-quality grain-inclusive food with real meat as the first ingredient is far better than a cheap grain-free food packed with fillers and plant proteins. For more on choosing quality food, see our dry food guides.

At dogfoodsuk.com, we believe there is no one-size-fits-all answer. Every dog is different, and the best food for your dog is the one that meets their individual nutritional needs, that they enjoy eating, and that fits within your budget.

How to Safely Transition to Grain-Free Food

Switching your dog’s food too quickly can cause digestive upset, regardless of whether you are moving to grain-free or between two grain-inclusive foods. A gradual transition is essential.

We have a full guide on how to switch dog food safely, but here is a quick summary of the recommended approach:

The 7–10 Day Transition Plan

Days	Old Food	New Grain-Free Food
Days 1–3	75%	25%
Days 4–6	50%	50%
Days 7–9	25%	75%
Day 10 onwards	0%	100%

During the transition, monitor your dog closely for any signs of digestive upset. If you notice persistent diarrhoea, vomiting, or loss of appetite, slow the transition down or consult your vet.

It is also worth noting that some dogs may experience a brief adjustment period when switching to grain-free, particularly if the new food has a different protein source or higher fat content. This is normal and usually resolves within a week or two.

What to Look for in Quality Grain-Free Dog Food

Not all grain-free dog foods are created equal. Here are the key factors we evaluate when reviewing products:

1. Named Meat as the First Ingredient

The first ingredient should always be a specific, named meat (e.g., “fresh chicken” or “salmon”) rather than a generic term like “meat meal” or “animal derivatives.” Check out our article on dogs and meat for more on why quality protein matters.

2. High Meat Content Overall

We recommend looking for grain-free foods with at least 50% total meat content for dry food and 60% or more for wet food. Brands like Eden (80% meat) and Forthglade (75% meat) set the standard here.

3. FEDIAF Nutritional Compliance

The food should comply with FEDIAF nutritional guidelines, which set minimum and maximum levels for essential nutrients. This is your assurance that the food is nutritionally complete and balanced.

4. No Unnecessary Fillers

Avoid foods that list excessive amounts of pea protein, potato starch, or other plant-based fillers near the top of the ingredient list. While these are not harmful, they should not be replacing quality meat.

5. Taurine and L-Carnitine

Given the ongoing discussion about grain-free diets and heart health, we recommend choosing brands that include taurine and L-carnitine in their recipes. These amino acids support cardiovascular health and can provide extra peace of mind.

6. Transparent Sourcing

The best brands are transparent about where their ingredients come from. UK-sourced meat, clearly labelled ingredient origins, and information about manufacturing locations are all positive signs.

7. All About Dog Food Rating

We highly recommend checking the All About Dog Food website, which provides independent nutritional analysis and ratings for hundreds of UK dog food brands. Their scoring system is one of the most reliable in the UK market.

Common Mistakes When Choosing Grain-Free Food

We have seen many UK dog owners make the same mistakes when switching to or choosing grain-free food. Here are the most common ones to avoid:

Mistake 1: Assuming Grain-Free Means Low Carb

As we mentioned earlier, many grain-free foods replace grains with other carbohydrate sources like sweet potato or peas. Always check the guaranteed analysis to understand the actual carbohydrate content.

Mistake 2: Choosing Based on Marketing Alone

Premium packaging and clever marketing claims do not guarantee quality. Always read the full ingredient list and nutritional information. A food’s quality is determined by what is actually in it, not what the front of the bag promises.

Mistake 3: Ignoring Your Dog’s Individual Needs

What works brilliantly for one dog may not suit another. Age, breed, activity level, health conditions, and personal preference all play a role. A highly active working dog has very different nutritional needs from a senior sofa companion.

Mistake 4: Switching Too Quickly

We covered this in the transition section, but it bears repeating — a sudden switch can cause significant digestive upset. Always transition gradually over 7–10 days minimum.

Mistake 5: Overfeeding

Many grain-free foods are more calorie-dense than standard grain-inclusive foods. Follow the feeding guidelines on the packaging and adjust based on your dog’s body condition. If your dog is gaining weight, you may need to reduce the portion size.

Mistake 6: Not Considering Wet Food Alternatives

Many owners default to dry kibble without considering wet food. For dogs that are picky eaters, need extra hydration, or have dental issues, a quality grain-free wet food like Forthglade or a combination of wet and dry might be a better solution.

Mistake 7: Neglecting Vet Advice

If your dog has health conditions, is on medication, or shows signs of illness, always consult your vet before changing their diet. Dietary changes can interact with certain health conditions and medications.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is grain-free dog food better than regular dog food?

Not necessarily. Grain-free food is better for dogs with diagnosed grain allergies or sensitivities. For most dogs, a high-quality grain-inclusive food is perfectly fine. The overall quality of ingredients matters more than whether the food contains grains. Always check that the food meets FEDIAF nutritional guidelines.

Can grain-free dog food cause heart problems?

There has been research into a potential link between certain grain-free diets (specifically those high in legumes) and DCM in dogs. However, this research is not conclusive, and European-produced grain-free foods following FEDIAF guidelines are generally considered safe. Choosing brands that include taurine and L-carnitine can provide additional reassurance. Speak to your vet if you have concerns.

Is grain-free food good for puppies?

Grain-free puppy food can be suitable as long as it is specifically formulated for puppies and meets their higher nutritional requirements for growth. Brands like Lily’s Kitchen and Eden offer puppy-specific grain-free recipes. For more on feeding puppies, see our best puppy food UK guide.

How much does grain-free dog food cost in the UK?

Grain-free dog food typically costs between 10–30% more than standard grain-inclusive food. Budget options like Butcher’s start from around 60p per can, while premium dry foods like Eden or Lily’s Kitchen cost £40–70 for a 12kg bag. We have included cost-per-day estimates for each of our recommended products to help you budget.

Can I mix grain-free wet and dry food?

Yes, many dog owners successfully mix grain-free wet and dry food. This can provide the benefits of both — the dental benefits and convenience of kibble alongside the hydration and palatability of wet food. Just ensure both foods are grain-free if you are avoiding grains entirely, and adjust the total daily portions to avoid overfeeding.

What grains are commonly replaced in grain-free dog food?

The most common replacements are sweet potatoes, potatoes, peas, lentils, chickpeas, and tapioca. Sweet potato is widely considered the best alternative because it is nutritious, easily digestible, and has a lower glycaemic index than white potato.

How do I know if my dog has a grain allergy?

The most reliable way to diagnose a grain allergy is through a veterinary-supervised elimination diet. This involves feeding your dog a novel protein and carbohydrate source for 8–12 weeks, then gradually reintroducing ingredients to identify the trigger. Blood tests and skin prick tests for food allergies are available but are less reliable than elimination diets.

Are there grain-free foods for senior dogs?

Yes, several brands offer grain-free options specifically formulated for senior dogs. These typically have adjusted calorie levels, added joint support supplements like glucosamine and chondroitin, and modified nutrient profiles. See our dog food guides for senior-specific recommendations.

Our Final Verdict

After extensive research and comparison, here are our final recommendations for the best grain-free dog foods in the UK:

• Best grain-free dry food overall: Eden 80/20 leads the pack with its exceptional 80% meat content and transparent ingredient sourcing. It offers outstanding nutritional value for the price and is consistently highly rated on independent review sites.
• Best grain-free wet food: Forthglade wins with its 75% meat content, gentle steaming process, and widespread UK availability. It is affordable, palatable, and made with care in Devon.
• Best for budget-conscious owners: Butcher’s Tripe provides excellent value and natural digestive benefits, though it is best used alongside a nutritionally complete dry food.
• Best for sensitive digestion: Scrumbles stands out with its added probiotics and gut-friendly recipe design.
• Best for skin issues: Wellness CORE Ocean delivers exceptional omega-3 levels that can help reduce inflammation and improve coat condition.

Grain-free dog food is not a magic solution, but for the right dog particularly those with genuine grain sensitivities — it can make a genuine difference to their health and happiness. The key is choosing a high-quality product from a reputable brand, following proper transition guidelines, and always keeping your vet in the loop.

We hope this guide helps you find the right food for your four-legged family member. If you found this helpful, please share it with other UK dog owners who might be navigating the same decision. And if you have questions or experiences with any of these brands, we would love to hear from you.