9 Best Dog Foods for Blue Heelers (Australian Cattle Dogs)

By Bethany Tate

Are you a proud owner of a vibrant and agile Blue Heeler? Fuel their boundless energy with the perfect diet! In this comprehensive review, we’ll delve into the top dog foods tailored for this breed, packed with high-quality protein, joint-loving compounds, and skin-nourishing omega-3s.

Discover the finest options, explore competitors, and gain personal insights for the healthiest and happiest four-legged companion. Unleash the potential of your Blue Heeler with the right food today! 🐾

Best Dog Food for Blue Heelers (Top 9 Picks)

1) Overall Best Dog food for blue Heelers: Front of the Pack

Why Front of the pack is a Perfect Fit for Blue Heelers: A Tailored Nutrition Solution

As a Blue Heeler parent, you know that these intelligent and energetic dogs require specialized care. Front of the Pack Air-Dried Dog Food caters precisely to their needs. With its high protein content from cage-free chicken, it supports their active lifestyle and agility. The presence of omega-6 fatty acids ensures their skin stays healthy, while the omega-3 fatty acids contribute to their sharp minds and beautiful coats.

But perhaps the most significant advantage is the air-dried nature of the food. Blue Heelers are known for their sensitive digestive systems, and this gentle preparation process helps alleviate any potential digestive issues, ensuring your pup can enjoy each meal to the fullest.

Price per meal of Front of The Pack Based on Breed Size
Healthy and Wholesome: Retaining 100% Nutrients

Imagine the peace of mind knowing that every morsel of food you give your Blue Heeler is bursting with nutrition. With Front of the Pack Air-Dried Dog Food, this dream becomes a reality. The low and slow air-drying process employed by this product retains a full 100% of the nutrients found in the wholesome ingredients, ensuring your dog receives maximum health benefits from every bite.

Tasty and Easy to Digest: A Treat for Your Pup’s Taste Buds

It’s no secret that mealtime is a joyful occasion for our furry friends, and with this air-dried dog food, the experience becomes even more delightful. The delicious, crumbly texture of this food is tailored to appeal to dogs of all sizes. Even the pickiest of eaters will find it irresistible! Additionally, the easy-to-digest nature of the food ensures that your Blue Heeler can enjoy every bite without any tummy troubles.

Convenient and Fuss-Free: Saving You Time and Effort

As a busy pet parent, convenience is key when it comes to selecting dog food. Front of the Pack Air-Dried Dog Food shines in this department, offering a fridge-free, ready-to-eat solution that requires zero prep and leaves you with no clean-up hassles. Just grab the pack, serve your dog, and watch them relish every moment of their meal. This convenience factor ensures that you can focus on what truly matters – spending quality time with your Blue Heeler and creating cherished memories together.

An Abundance of Beneficial Ingredients: Optimal Health Support

Front of the Pack Air-Dried Dog Food goes above and beyond by incorporating a range of beneficial ingredients into its recipe, each serving a specific purpose in enhancing your Blue Heeler’s well-being:

  1. Sweet Potato: Rich in beta-carotene and anthocyanins, sweet potato supports your dog’s immunity and cellular health, providing an extra layer of defense against potential health issues.
  2. Gluten-Free Oats: Packed with omega-6 fatty acids, oats contribute to your best bud’s skin health, leaving it smooth, supple, and itch-free, even during the harsh seasons.
  3. Guar Fiber: This natural prebiotic plays a crucial role in maintaining your pup’s gut health, ensuring proper digestion and helping to prevent any unwanted gassy episodes.
  4. Fish Oil: A highly concentrated source of omega-3 fats, fish oil keeps your dog’s brain sharp and their coat looking positively luscious – perfect for those Instagram-worthy moments!

Front of the Pack Air-Dried Dog Food stands head and shoulders above the rest. With its commitment to quality, convenience, and tailored nutrition, it’s no wonder this product is a true favorite among Blue Heeler owners. If you want to see your dog thrive and live their best life, this air-dried dog food is the ultimate choice. Say goodbye to compromises and say hello to a happy, healthy, and vibrant life with your Blue Heeler companion!

2) Best Dog for Blue heelers on a Raw diet: We Feed Raw

If you’re a Blue Heeler owner, you know how important it is to provide your furry companion with the best nutrition possible. Switching your Blue Heeler to a raw diet can be a game changer, and We Feed Raw is our top pick for raw dog food.

Reasons why we like We Feed Raw for Blue Heelers (Australian Cattle Dogs)

Real Ingredients, No Compromises

As soon as I opened the packaging, I could see and smell the difference. We Feed Raw is all about real, recognizable ingredients – USDA, human-grade meats that are free from fillers, preservatives, artificial colors, and flavors. The patties are made up of wholesome meaty goodness, including muscle meat, connective tissue, and fat, just like nature intended. This is precisely what sets it apart from other pet foods on the market.

The Power of Raw, Minimally Processed Nutrition

One of the standout features of We Feed Raw is its minimal processing. The food is never cooked or heated, ensuring that all the essential nutrients are preserved in their most natural form. As a result, the patties offer the highest digestibility, which is excellent news for Blue Heelers with sensitive stomachs. This minimally processed approach not only enhances the food’s overall performance but also aligns perfectly with a dog’s biological needs as carnivores.

Formulated by a PhD Animal Nutritionist: Unmatched Expertise

Knowing that We Feed Raw was formulated by a PhD animal nutritionist gave me complete peace of mind. This pet food meets or even exceeds AAFCO nutrition standards, meaning it provides a well-balanced diet that supports your Blue Heeler’s overall health and well-being. From playful puppies to energetic adults and even those precious seniors, this food is designed to cater to dogs in all life stages.

A Food Safety Program You Can Trust

Safety is paramount when it comes to raw pet food, and We Feed Raw doesn’t cut corners. Their strict food safety program includes a cold-pressure process that effectively eliminates harmful pathogens in raw meat. So you can rest easy knowing that every patty you serve to your furry friend is not only nutritious but also safe to consume.

Nutritionally Complete: Tailored for Blue Heeler Excellence

As a Blue Heeler parent, I can’t emphasize enough how critical it is to meet the specific nutritional needs of this intelligent and active breed. We Feed Raw understands this and ensures that each patty is formulated to meet the AAFCO dog food nutrient profiles for all life stages, including large-breed puppies weighing 70 lbs or more. This means you have the peace of mind knowing that your Blue Heeler is getting all the essential nutrients they require to thrive.

An Exclusive Vitamin and Mineral Boost

To take their nutrition a step further, We Feed Raw includes a high-quality vitamin and mineral premix, exclusively sourced and made in the USA. This added boost of nutrition complements the raw ingredients, providing your Blue Heeler with a well-rounded and complete diet.

In Conclusion

We Feed Raw is a stellar choice for Blue Heeler owners who want to prioritize their pet’s health and happiness. With real ingredients you can recognize, minimal processing that retains vital nutrients, and a formula crafted by a PhD animal nutritionist, this raw pet food truly stands out from the crowd. Not to mention, the food safety program and AAFCO compliance offer peace of mind for responsible pet parents.

When you switch your Blue Heeler to We Feed Raw, you’re not just providing them with a meal; you’re investing in their long-term well-being. Say goodbye to generic, processed kibble and hello to a diet that aligns with your dog’s carnivorous nature. Fuel your Blue Heeler’s boundless energy, support their overall health, and witness them thrive with We Feed Raw – nature’s best nutrition in every patty!

3) Best Dry dog food for Blue Heelers: Taste of the Wild Pacific Stream Smoke-Flavored Salmon Dry Dog Food

Why we think Taste of the Wild’s Pacific Stream a great dry dog food for Blue Heelers

Real Fish, Real Protein, Real Health

It’s no wonder that real fish was chosen as the #1 ingredient in this dry dog food– it provides a mouthwatering taste that dogs adore! Beyond taste, this high-protein formula is a boon for Blue Heelers. The ample protein content supports their bones, joints, and lean, strong muscles, crucial for their active lifestyle and agility.

A Bounty of Nutrients from Nature’s Best

What sets Taste of the Wild apart is its dedication to using real fruits and superfoods to enrich their dry dog food with essential vitamins and minerals. The inclusion of omega fatty acids ensures your Blue Heeler’s skin and coat stay healthy and vibrant, even during harsh weather. Plus, the added nutrients provide the energy they need to thrive – an absolute must for a lively breed like the Blue Heeler.

Gut Health and Immune Support – Powered by K9 Strain Proprietary Probiotics

A healthy gut means a healthy dog, and Taste of the Wild gets it right. Their Pacific Stream formula contains species-specific K9 Strain Proprietary Probiotics that promote a balanced and healthy digestion. As a Blue Heeler owner, you’ll appreciate the prebiotics and antioxidants, which contribute to your dog’s overall well-being and immune system health.

Dry Food You Can Trust: Made in the USA by a Family-Owned Brand

Knowing that Taste of the Wild Pacific Stream is crafted by a family-owned brand. They source ingredients from trusted domestic and global sources, ensuring only the best goes into every bag. This dedication to sourcing ensures that your Blue Heeler receives nothing but the finest nutrition.

4) Best Wet Dog for Blue heelers: American Journey Chicken & Turkey Recipe

Why we think American Journey is the best Wet food for Blue Heelers

Real Meat, Real Benefits

Opening the can reveals the delightful aroma of real chicken and turkey – always the first ingredient in this recipe. This means with this wet dog food your Blue Heeler is getting the high-quality protein they need to maintain lean muscle mass. With their active nature, ensuring they have enough protein for energy and muscle support is of utmost importance.

A Palatable and Nutritious Delight

When you serve this meat-rich recipe in savory chicken broth, your Blue Heeler won’t be able to wait to dig in. The flavor is so enticing that they will lick their bowls clean every time. But it’s not just about taste – this wet dog food packs a punch in the nutrition department too. The animal proteins provide essential amino acids, promoting overall health and well-being. The added omega-3 and 6 contribute to their skin and coat health, leaving them with a glossy and lustrous coat.

5) Best Dog food for Blue heelers with Allergies: Natural Balance Limited Ingredient Grain-Free Salmon & Sweet Potato Recipe

If your Australian Cattle Dog has allergies then you understand the challenges of dealing with a dog that has allergies and sensitive stomachs. We recommend Natural Balance Limited Ingredient Salmon & Sweet Potato Recipe as a great option for Blue Heelers with allergies.

Why we like Natural Balance for Blue Heelers with Allergies

Powerful Protein and Grain-Free Goodness

The star of this recipe is the premium salmon, which takes the lead as the first ingredient. Salmon provides essential protein and amino acids, supporting my Blue Heeler’s strong muscles and overall vitality. The grain-free formula is a game-changer for dogs with allergies, offering sweet potatoes as a wholesome source of fiber to promote healthy digestion.

Simple and Sensible Ingredient List

With Natural Balance, I found a brand that focuses on simplicity without compromising on nutrition. This recipe boasts a single animal protein source, and it is free from grains, soy, gluten, artificial colors, or flavors. As a result, I noticed a significant reduction in my Blue Heeler’s allergies and sensitivities, making mealtime a delightful and worry-free experience.

Nutrient-Rich Goodness for Optimal Health

Sweet potatoes and flaxseed are just some of the nutritious ingredients that contribute to the balanced and complete diet offered by Natural Balance Limited Ingredient Salmon & Sweet Potato Recipe. My Blue Heeler enjoys every bite, and I can rest assured that they are getting all the essential nutrients they need to maintain a healthy immune system.

Relief for Sensitive Stomachs and Irritable Skin

One of the standout features of this recipe is its allergy-friendly nature. For Blue Heelers with sensitive stomachs and irritable skin, this formula is a savior. The absence of common allergens, such as grains and artificial additives, ensures that my pup’s tummy remains calm, and their skin stays itch-free and comfortable.

A Complete Diet for Allergy-Prone Blue Heelers

Natural Balance understands the unique needs of dogs with allergies, and they have crafted a delicious, nutrient-rich recipe that caters to all dogs, regardless of their dietary sensitivities. The limited ingredient approach helps Blue Heelers with allergies enjoy mealtime without any discomfort or adverse reactions.

6) Best Puppy Food for Blue Heelers: ORIJEN Puppy Grain-Free Dry Puppy Food

ORIJEN Puppy Food is a nutritional masterpiece that celebrates the natural instincts and needs of Blue Heeler puppies. From the finest ingredients crafted in the USA to the unique WholePrey diet and freeze-dried coating, this dog food is a cut above the rest.

Why we recommend Orijen as the best puppy food for a blue heeler

Unparalleled Freshness and Quality Protein

The first five ingredients of this exceptional puppy food come from poultry or fish, ensuring a high-quality and protein-rich diet. The unique preservation methods used by ORIJEN, such as refrigeration for fresh ingredients and freezing at peak freshness for raw ingredients, meant that my pup was getting the most succulent and nutrient-packed meat possible.

A Wholesome WholePrey Diet for True Nourishment

One of the standout features of ORIJEN Puppy Food is its WholePrey diet philosophy. It perfectly mimics what our dogs’ ancestors consumed in the wild – a balance of meat, organs, and bone. This means my Blue Heeler pup is getting the most wholesome and nourishing parts of the prey, just as nature intended.

Freeze-Dried Coated for a Burst of Instinctive Flavor

The freeze-dried coating on this puppy food is pure genius. It adds a burst of raw flavor that instantly appealed to my Blue Heeler’s instincts. Mealtime became an exciting and delightful experience, and I could see the joy in my pup’s eyes as they eagerly devoured every morsel.

Addressing Blue Heeler Puppies’ Unique Needs

ORIJEN Puppy Food truly stands out from the crowd by catering to the specific needs of Blue Heeler puppies. With approximately 85% quality poultry and fish ingredients, this food provides a robust source of essential protein, vitamins, and minerals, crucial for a growing pup’s development.

7) Best Senior Dog Food for Blue Heelers: Nutro Natural Choice Senior Chicken & Brown Rice Recipe

This dog food is specifically designed for senior dogs aged 7 years and older. Nutro Natural Choice understands the unique needs of older Blue Heelers and provides a formula that addresses those needs with precision.

Why we like Nutro Natural Choice for Senior Blue Heelers

Supporting Bone, Joint, and Digestive Health

As dogs age, their bones and joints need extra care. The calcium in this recipe helps support strong bones and joints, making sure my senior Blue Heeler stays agile and mobile even as they grow older. Additionally, the natural fiber content supports healthy digestion, which is crucial for older dogs with potentially sensitive stomachs.

Nurturing a Robust Immune System

One of the standout features of Nutro Natural Choice Senior Chicken & Brown Rice Recipe is the inclusion of essential antioxidants. These little wonders support a healthy immune system, which is especially important for senior dogs as they need all the help they can get to fend off health issues.

A Wholesome Recipe Free of Unwanted Ingredients

The assurance of non-GMO ingredients and the absence of chicken by-product meal, corn, wheat, or soy in this dog food gives you confidence about the quality of what your feeding your senior Blue Heeler. With Nutro Natural Choice, you know that you are giving your dog a clean and wholesome meal, free from unnecessary fillers.

8) Best Grain-free dog food for Blue heelers: Merrick Real Texas Beef + Sweet Potato Recipe Grain-Free Chicken

This dog food from Merrick is a protein-packed delight that meets the unique needs of Australian Cattle Dogs. With real deboned beef and sweet potatoes, along with essential nutrients like omega fatty acids and joint support, this formula perfectly complements a active Blue Heeler’s lifestyle while still being grain-free.

Why we think this is a great grain-free food for Blue Heelers

A Nutrition Powerhouse with 65% Protein and Healthy Fat

You might notice a difference in your Blue Heeler’s energy levels and overall well-being with Merrick Real Texas Beef and Sweet Potato Recipe. The 65% protein and healthy fat ingredients contribute to their boundless energy and support their lean muscle mass, allowing them to thrive during their daily adventures.

A Healthy Dose of Omega Fatty Acids, Glucosamine, and Chondroitin

With this dog food, you’ll find a well-rounded nutritional profile that goes the extra mile. The inclusion of omega fatty acids promotes a luscious coat and healthy skin, while glucosamine and chondroitin support a Blue Heeler’s joint health, ensuring they stay agile and active for years to come.

Free from Allergen Triggers and Artificial Additives

One of the standout features of Merrick Real Texas Beef + Sweet Potato Recipe is its commitment to being free from chicken and poultry ingredients, grains, corn, wheat, soy, gluten, and artificial colors, flavors, and preservatives. This dog food offers a wholesome and clean meal that won’t trigger any sensitivities for a Blue Heeler.

9) Best Budget Dog food for Blue heelers: Blue Buffalo Life Protection Formula Adult Chicken & Brown Rice Recipe

As a budget-conscious pet parent, finding a dog food that offers quality without compromising on unwanted ingredients is a real triumph. Blue Buffalo Life Protection Formula hits the mark by being free from corn, wheat, soy, and chicken (or poultry) by-product meals.

Why we think this recipe from Blue Buffalo is a great budget friendly food for Blue Heelers

High-Quality Protein and Carbs for Optimal Energy

One of the standout features of Blue Buffalo Life Protection Formula is the essential, high-quality protein it provides. This is vital for a Blue Heeler’s healthy muscle development, allowing them to stay agile and energetic during their daily adventures. The addition of carbohydrates ensures they have the energy they need for their active life, keeping them at the top of their game.

Strong Bones, Healthy Teeth, and Joint Support

As a pet parent, you want the best for my Blue Heeler, especially when it comes to their bone and joint health. Blue Buffalo Life Protection Formula delivers with calcium, phosphorus, and essential vitamins that help promote strong bones and teeth, supporting your dog’s overall well-being. The inclusion of glucosamine is a welcome bonus, as it aids in joint health and mobility, allowing your fur-baby to move with ease and comfort.

A Boost for Immune System Health

Blue Buffalo Life Protection Formula includes vitamins, chelated minerals, and antioxidants to bolster your Australian Cattle dog’s immune system. In this unpredictable world, it’s essential to give a Blue Heeler the support they need to stay healthy and happy. This formula provides that extra protection, without an exorbitant price tag.


Understanding the Nutritional Needs of a Blue Heeler: A Guide to Choosing the Perfect Dog Food

As a proud owner of a Blue Heeler, you want nothing but the best for your loyal companion. One of the most crucial aspects of ensuring their health and well-being is providing them with the right nutrition at every stage of their life. Blue Heelers, also known as Australian Cattle Dogs, are renowned for their energy and agility, and meeting their unique nutritional requirements is essential for their growth, development, and longevity. Let’s dive into the nutritional needs of a Blue Heeler throughout its various life stages and explore what features to look for in a dog food to keep your four-legged friend happy and healthy.

Puppy Stage (0-12 Months)

During the puppy stage, your Blue Heeler is growing rapidly and requires a diet that supports their developing bones, muscles, and immune system. Look for a dog food that is specifically formulated for puppies to provide the essential nutrients they need. Optimal protein content is crucial for their muscle development and should be sourced from high-quality animal proteins like chicken, beef, or fish. Additionally, ensure the food contains DHA, an omega-3 fatty acid that supports brain and eye development.

Adult Stage (1-7 Years)

As your Blue Heeler transitions into adulthood, their nutritional needs change too. A balanced diet with the right proportions of protein, fats, and carbohydrates is essential for maintaining their energy levels and overall health. Look for dog food that offers a moderate protein content to support their active lifestyle. Blue Heelers are known for their agility and working capabilities, so select a food that includes glucosamine and chondroitin to promote joint health and mobility. Omega fatty acids are also beneficial for maintaining their healthy skin and coat.

Senior Stage (7 Years and Older)

As your Blue Heeler enters their golden years, their metabolism slows down, and they may become less active. A senior-specific dog food is ideal to meet their changing nutritional requirements. Look for a formula with reduced calories to prevent weight gain while still providing essential nutrients. Joint support becomes even more critical at this stage, so foods containing glucosamine, chondroitin, and omega fatty acids are vital to support aging joints. Antioxidants are also beneficial for bolstering their immune system and promoting overall health.

Features to Look for in Blue Heeler Dog Food

When choosing a dog food for your Blue Heeler, keep the following features in mind:

  1. High-Quality Animal Protein: Ensure the food lists a specific animal protein source as the main ingredient, such as chicken, beef, or fish.
  2. Balanced Nutrients: Look for a balanced formula with a combination of proteins, fats, carbohydrates, and essential vitamins and minerals to meet your dog’s unique needs at each life stage.
  3. Joint Support: For the active Blue Heeler, joint support in the form of glucosamine and chondroitin is crucial for maintaining mobility and preventing joint issues.
  4. Omega Fatty Acids: These nutrients support healthy skin, a shiny coat, and overall well-being.
  5. No Fillers or Artificial Additives: Choose a dog food that is free from fillers, artificial colors, flavors, and preservatives to ensure your Blue Heeler is getting the best nutrition without unnecessary additives.

Remember, consulting with your veterinarian is essential in determining the best dog food for your Blue Heeler’s specific needs, especially if they have any health concerns or dietary restrictions. By understanding your Blue Heeler’s nutritional requirements at each life stage and selecting the right dog food, you can provide them with the foundation for a happy and healthy life by your side.

Blue Heeler Dog Food FAQs

What are some common problems faced by Blue Heelers and how can the right dog food help?

Blue Heelers may be prone to joint issues due to their active nature, and the glucosamine and chondroitin in these dog foods can help alleviate and prevent such problems. Additionally, some Blue Heelers might have food sensitivities, and the grain-free or easily digestible grain options in these foods can address those concerns. The omega-3 fatty acids present can improve skin and coat health, reducing itchiness and shedding. These foods also aid in maintaining a healthy weight, avoiding obesity-related issues that this breed might face.

Are the best dog foods for Blue Heelers worth the money?

Absolutely! While these premium dog foods may have a higher price tag than generic alternatives, they offer superior quality and targeted nutrition for your Blue Heeler. The value lies in the carefully selected ingredients that cater to their specific needs, promoting overall health, and potentially reducing future veterinary expenses. Investing in high-quality dog food means you’re providing the best possible care for your beloved furry companion.

How can I troubleshoot if my Blue Heeler faces difficulty transitioning to the new food?

Transitioning to a new dog food should be done gradually over 7-10 days to avoid digestive upset. Start by mixing a small amount of the new food with the old one and gradually increase the ratio each day. If your Blue Heeler still experiences difficulty, try moistening the kibble with warm water or low-sodium chicken broth to enhance palatability. If problems persist, consult your veterinarian for guidance on finding a suitable alternative.

Photo of author
AUTHOR
Bethany Tate
Writing and analyzing data are her superpowers. Dogs, nature, and trail running are her oxygen. Bethany passionately believes pets make the world a better place. Her world is made better by Nemo, her pet dachshund.