Best Grain Free Dog Food Australia Review
More Australian dog owners than ever are switching to grain-free diets for their pets and with good reason. Many dogs suffer from food sensitivities, allergies, or digestive issues linked to grains like wheat, corn, and barley. A grain-free diet can help alleviate these problems and promote overall health.
But with dozens of brands on the market, choosing the best grain free dog food Australia has to offer can feel overwhelming. That’s why we’ve done the research for you. This guide presents the most recommended grain-free dog foods available in Australia today carefully reviewed based on ingredient quality, nutritional balance, value for money, and customer feedback.
Whether your dog has allergies or you simply want to feed a cleaner, more natural diet, here’s what you need to know.
Table of Content
Why Choose Grain-Free Dog Food?
Grain-free dog food is formulated without common grains such as wheat, rice, corn, or barley. Instead, it typically uses alternative carbohydrate sources like sweet potatoes, peas, or lentils.
Potential Benefits of Grain-Free Diets:
- Can reduce allergic reactions (itching, ear infections, poor coat)
- Easier to digest for sensitive stomachs
- Higher protein content to support lean muscle
- Often more natural and closer to a dog’s ancestral diet
Is Grain-Free Right for Every Dog?
Not all dogs need grain-free food. For healthy dogs with no sensitivities, grains like rice and oats can actually be a healthy source of energy. Some recent research has also linked poorly balanced grain-free diets with heart conditions like DCM in rare cases.
Bottom line:
Always consult your vet before switching to grain-free and choose only reputable, balanced formulas.
What to Look for in the Best Grain Free Dog Food
When reviewing the best grain free dog food in Australia, these criteria are crucial:
- Meat as the primary ingredient: Look for named animal proteins like chicken, lamb, or salmon.
- Healthy carbs & fibre: Sweet potato, peas, and pumpkin are better alternatives to grains.
- No artificial additives: Avoid artificial colours, flavours, and preservatives.
- Balanced nutrition: Ensure it meets AAFCO or FEDIAF standards for complete and balanced dog food.
- Suitable for your dog’s needs: Puppies, seniors, and active dogs all have unique requirements.
Best Grain Free Dog Food Australia Review: Top Picks
Here are five of the most highly-rated grain-free dog foods in Australia, based on research, expert opinions, and consumer reviews.
1. Ziwi Peak Air-Dried Dog Food
Why it stands out:
Ziwi Peak is a premium air-dried dog food made in New Zealand and sold widely in Australia. It contains up to 96% meat, organs, and bones mimicking a natural raw diet while remaining shelf-stable and convenient.
Key features:
- Air-dried to preserve nutrients without heat damage
- Free from grains, potatoes, and legumes
- Ethically sourced free-range meats and seafood
Pros:
✅ Extremely high meat content
✅ Highly digestible
✅ No fillers or artificial ingredients
Cons:
❌ Expensive compared to other brands
❌ Can be too rich for some dogs if overfed
Best for: High-energy dogs, picky eaters, and owners seeking the most natural, high-protein option.
2. Black Hawk Grain-Free Dry Dog Food
Why it stands out:
A trusted Australian brand, Black Hawk offers a range of grain-free recipes that are affordable yet high in quality. It’s formulated with real meat, vegetables, and no unnecessary fillers.
Key features:
- Australian-made with local ingredients
- Real meat as the #1 ingredient
- Options for different life stages and sizes
Pros:
✅ Great value for money
✅ Aussie owned and made
✅ Well-balanced nutrition
Cons:
❌ Some dogs may prefer a higher meat content
❌ Limited flavour variety compared to others
Best for: Everyday feeding for dogs with mild sensitivities, at an accessible price point.
3. Taste of the Wild Grain-Free Dog Food
Why it stands out:
Taste of the Wild is a US-made brand known for unique, high-protein recipes inspired by wild canine diets. Proteins include bison, venison, and salmon, great for picky or adventurous eaters.
Key features:
- Grain-free and legume-rich recipes
- Added probiotics for gut health
- Wide flavour variety
Pros:
✅ Novel proteins for allergy-prone dogs
✅ Palatable and highly rated by dog owners
✅ Supports digestive health
Cons:
❌ Imported, so more expensive than some Aussie brands
❌ Legume-heavy recipes may not suit all dogs
Best for: Dogs with grain and common protein allergies, or picky eaters.
4. Ivory Coat Grain-Free Dog Food
Why it stands out:
Ivory Coat is another Australian brand, offering balanced grain-free nutrition at a reasonable price. It’s widely available and has formulas for puppies, adults, and seniors.
Key features:
- Australian-made and owned
- Real meat and vegetables
- Affordable compared to imports
Pros:
✅ Accessible and affordable
✅ Aussie-sourced ingredients
✅ Wide product range
Cons:
❌ Some recipes have lower protein compared to premium brands
❌ Not ideal for very high-energy working dogs
Best for: Budget-conscious owners who want a locally made, dependable grain-free option.
5. Canidae PURE Grain-Free Dog Food
Why it stands out:
Canidae PURE is formulated with limited ingredients, making it ideal for dogs with severe food sensitivities or multiple allergies. Recipes are simple and free from common allergens.
Key features:
- Limited-ingredient formulas
- Grain-free, soy-free, and corn-free
- Good for sensitive stomachs
Pros:
✅ Helps reduce allergy flare-ups
✅ Minimal ingredient lists
✅ High-quality US brand
Cons:
❌ Pricey
❌ Fewer flavour options
Best for: Dogs with multiple food allergies or sensitive digestion.
Are Grain-Free Diets Safe?
There has been some controversy over grain-free diets and their link to canine dilated cardiomyopathy (DCM). Most experts agree that grain-free diets made with high-quality animal proteins and balanced properly are generally safe. The risks seem to come from poorly formulated grain-free foods heavy in legumes or lacking essential taurine.
Pro tip:
Choose reputable brands that meet AAFCO standards and avoid low-meat, legume-heavy formulas.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Is grain-free better for all dogs?
Not necessarily. Dogs without allergies or sensitivities may do just as well on a grain-inclusive diet. Grain-free is most beneficial for dogs with diagnosed grain intolerances.
2. How do I know if my dog needs grain-free food?
Signs include chronic scratching, ear infections, digestive upsets, or dull coats. A vet can help diagnose food sensitivities.
3. Are Australian brands as good as imported ones?
Yes. Brands like Black Hawk and Ivory Coat are highly regarded and often better suited to Australian standards and ingredients.
4. Can grain-free diets cause heart disease?
Some poorly formulated diets may contribute to heart issues. Choosing a well-balanced, meat-rich formula and consulting your vet mitigates risk.
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Personally, for my own dogs, I’d use Black Hawk as an everyday staple and keep a bag of Ziwi Peak on hand as a premium topper or treat for special meals. That way, you get the health benefits without overspending.
No matter what you choose, always monitor how your dog responds to the new food check their coat, energy, stools, and overall health. If you’re unsure, ask your vet to help guide you based on your dog’s individual needs.
Conclusion
Our research shows that the best grain free dog food Australia offers can improve your dog’s health if they suffer from sensitivities or digestive problems. Brands like Ziwi Peak, Black Hawk, Taste of the Wild, Ivory Coat, and Canidae are all excellent choices depending on your budget, your dog’s preferences, and their specific needs.
Always remember:
1. Consult your vet before switching diets
2. Transition slowly to avoid stomach upsets
3. Monitor your dog’s health and adjust as needed
With the right choice, a grain-free diet can help your dog live a happier, healthier life.
If you’ve tried any of these brands or have your own recommendations, feel free to share your experience in the comments. Your feedback helps other pet owners make informed decisions!
