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6 Best Dog Foods for Border Collies – 2024 Reviews & Top Picks

Nicole Cosgrove Profile Picture

By Nicole Cosgrove

A Border Collie Border collies are great pets, but we know you are aware of this if you already own one. As one of the smartest breeds, they know how much you care for them, especially when you do so by providing them with optimal nutrition.

Keeping your dog healthy is essential for their well-being, and this article features six reviews of the best dog foods for Border Collies. The buyer’s guide at the end features considerations to keep in mind before deciding which food is the most ideal for your dog and fits your expectations.

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A Quick Comparison of Our Favorites in 2024

Rating Image Product Details
Best Overall
Winner
The Farmer’s Dog Fresh Dog Food Subscription The Farmer’s Dog Fresh Dog Food Subscription
  • Human-grade ingredients
  • Pre-portioned meals
  • Complete and balanced diet
  • Budget Buy
    Second place
    Purina Dog Chow Adult Dry Purina Dog Chow Adult Dry
  • Affordable
  • 23 vitamins and minerals
  • Made in the U.S.A.
  • Third place
    Wellness Core Grain-Free Wellness Core Grain-Free
  • High-quality ingredients
  • Protein-rich
  • Grain-free
  • Best For Puppies
    Eukanuba Puppy Eukanuba Puppy
  • Builds lean muscles
  • Balanced nutrition
  • DHA included
  • Tuffy’s Pet Food Nutrisource Tuffy’s Pet Food Nutrisource
  • Four life supplements added
  • High in protein
  • Helps digestion
  • The 6 Best Dog Foods for Border Collies

    1. The Farmer’s Dog Fresh Dog Food Subscription– Best Overall

    the farmer's dog turkey recipe

    The Farmer’s Dog is one of the freshest and healthiest dog food brands on the market today. It is complete and balanced, providing your dog with the freshest human-grade ingredients possible. If you have a Border Collie, you know how many calories they can burn since they are herding dogs. At The Farmer’s Dog, they will formulate a meal plan based on your Border Collie’s needs and activity level.

    The founders formulated this fresh dog food with a team of top veterinary nutritionists to design fresh dog food that provides all the nutrients dogs need to thrive. The food is also prepared in USDA-certified kitchens. The pet food market has low safety and quality levels that can hide behind misleading labeling.

    Some even go as far as saying the food is “organic” or “natural.” When you buy from The Farmer’s Dog, your Border Collie will get real food with real ingredients and not overly processed kibble. The Farmer’s Dog has several recipes: turkey, beef, and chicken.

    To get started, fill out your Border Collie’s information, such as weight, age, current food, activity level, health issues, and if your Border Collie has been spayed or neutered. They then formulate a plan based on that information. All meals are pre-portioned, and it’s shipped right to your door.

    The Farmer’s Dog is expensive, and you’ll need a subscription, but with the price comes the utmost nutrition for your Border Collie, making it the best overall dog food for Border Collies.

    Pros
    • Human-grade ingredients
    • Pre-portioned meals
    • A complete and balanced diet
    • Delivered right to your door
    • Prepared in USDA-certified kitchens
    Cons
    • More expensive than traditional kibble

    2. Purina Dog Adult Dry Dog Food — Budget Buy

    Purina 17838 Dog Adult Dry Dog Food

    Purina Complete Adult is the best dog food for Border Collies for the money because the recipe has 100% complete and balanced nutrition at an affordable price. The primary ingredient is real beef, and the formula contains 23 essential vitamins and minerals. The food is made in the U.S.A. by the Nestlé Purina PetCare Company in St. Louis, Missouri.

    The company follows AAFCO procedures to meet complete and balanced nutrition for the maintenance of adult dogs. The food is not ideal for high-performance dogs, but it supplies 21% crude protein, 10% crude fat, and 4.5% crude fiber. The ingredients include whole-grain corn, poultry by-product meal, and beef fat.

    Unfortunately, beef is not number one, but the recipe supports strong muscles and immune health. It is ideal for all breeds, so it is a good choice for border collies. Purina takes pride in that every ingredient serves a purpose, and it uses high-quality ingredients.

    Dogs find the food easy to eat and tasty, but it does not have high-quality protein as the number-one ingredient. However, many appreciate the affordability of Purina Complete Adult, especially when they own more than one dog.

    Pros
    • Affordable
    • 23 vitamins and minerals
    • Every ingredient has a purpose
    • Made in the U.S.A.
    • Ideal for adult maintenance
    • Tasty and easy to eat
    • Supports strong muscles
    • Supports immune health
    Cons
    • Beef not number-one ingredient

    3. Wellness Core Grain-Free Dry Dog Food

    Wellness 88458 Core Grain-Free Dry Dog Food

    Wellness is a protein-rich dog food that uses high-quality, grain-free ingredients to provide nutrients for leaner body mass and muscle tone, which is ideal for a Border Collie. The main ingredient is lamb and lamb meal, followed by pea protein, chickpeas, flaxseed, fruits, veggies, and essential nutrients that keep your dog healthy.

    There are omega fatty acids for a healthy coat, antioxidants for the immune system, glucosamine for the joints, and probiotics for digestive health. The crude protein is at 33%, fat is at 15%, and fiber sits at 6%, which meets the nutritional levels established by the AAFCO Dog Food Nutrient Profiles for maintenance.

    On the downside, Wellness is a pricy product, so it sits in the third spot on our list. However, dogs love the flavor combination and thrive when fed this formula. Wellness Core is made in the U.S.A. and backed by the Wellness Guarantee.

    Pros
    • High-quality ingredients
    • Protein-rich
    • Grain-free
    • Lamb is the primary ingredient
    • Fruits and vegetables included
    • Omega fatty acids
    • Glucosamine added
    • Tasty
    • Wellness guarantee
    Cons
    • Pricey

    4. Eukanuba Puppy Dry Dog Food — Best For Puppies

    Eukanuba 10146309 Puppy Dry Dog Food

    This lamb and rice recipe is formulated for medium-breed puppies to build lean muscles and deliver 100% complete and balanced nutrition. It provides 27% crude protein, 15% fat, and 5% moisture, which meet the nutritional levels established by the AAFCO. Lamb is the first ingredient, followed by brewers’ yeast, chicken by-product meal, and corn meal.

    There are no fillers, and Eukanuba uses a specialized fiber system made from natural beet pulp and prebiotic FOS for healthy digestion. Fish oil provides a natural source of DHA to support brain and eye development. Finally, optimal levels of omega-6 and -3 fatty acids promote a shiny coat and healthy skin.

    The kibble is small, and the lamb and rice make a tasty combination agreeable to most dogs. Eukanuba contains ingredients that may not suit puppies with allergies or food sensitivities. However, it has a 100% money-back guarantee if you aren’t satisfied with the product and will refund your money with proof of purchase.

    Pros
    • Ideal for puppies
    • Builds lean muscles
    • Balanced nutrition
    • Tasty
    • Specialized fiber
    • DHA included
    • Supplies fatty acids
    • Money-back guarantee
    Cons
    • Not ideal for allergies or food sensitivities

    5. Tuffy’s Pet Food Nutrisource Dry Food

    Tuffy’s Pet Food 131101 Nutrisource Dry Food

    This recipe is ideal for adult dogs and features a high nutrient density that provides optimal nutrition for your border collie. Nutri Source uses four life supplements in each recipe that focus on health and longevity for your pet. Selenium is for brain health, Yea-Sac is for digestion and odor control, Bio-Mos is for gut health, and Bioplex is for skin and coat health.

    The number-one ingredient is chicken, followed by chicken meal, brown rice, barley, and chicken fat. The recipe balances omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids to promote heart health, while other supplements provide the best overall nutrition. The formula is tasty, and many owners notice a difference in their dogs, such as less gas and a shiny coat.

    Nutri Source does not contain fresh fruits and veggies but includes supplements for the needed nutrients. On the downside, since this recipe contains chicken, grains, and brewer’s yeast, it may not be ideal for dogs with food sensitivities and allergies. However, some reviewers found it helped dogs suffering from hot spots and digestive issues.

    Pros
    • Four life supplements
    • Natural ingredients
    • High in protein
    • Fatty acids for heart health
    • Helps digestion
    • Tasty
    • Improves coat and skin
    Cons
    • May not be ideal for dogs with food sensitivities

    6. IAMS PROACTIVE HEALTH Adult Dry Dog Food

    IAMS 10188064 PROACTIVE HEALTH Adult Dry Dog Food

    Iams Proactive Health is a high-protein food for active adult dogs with quality ingredients and healthy fat to keep your Border Collie healthy. The main ingredients are chicken, turkey, and egg to help build muscle and provide energy. It contains 18% fat, so your active dog can maintain an ideal weight, while the amount of crude protein is 30%.

    Iams does not include fruits and vegetables; instead, it is formulated with essential minerals to maintain bones, joints, and heart health. L-carnitine is added to help with healthy fat metabolism, and the whole grains are another excellent energy source. Chicken fat provides fatty acids to support healthy skin and coat, and beet pulp is full of fiber to support digestion.

    There are no artificial preservatives, flavors, or fillers, but Iams is a pricey product.

    Pros
    • High protein
    • High fat
    • Essential minerals included
    • Fatty acids for skin and coat
    • Plenty of fiber
    • No artificial ingredients or fillers
    • Provides energy for active dogs
    Cons
    • Pricey

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    Buyer’s Guide: Finding the Best Dog Foods for Border Collies

    When searching for the right food for your Border Collie, there are a few factors to keep in mind. If you consider your dog’s activity level, age, and health, you will move in the right direction to find the best dog food for your Border Collie. Let’s look at the tips for ensuring optimal health and vigor so your dog can live a healthy and vibrant life.

    Considerations

    Activity Level

    Border Collies are working dogs. Though not every Border Collie will be used in this manner, they are still energetic, and to keep them lean and fit, they need regular exercise. Each stage of life requires different amounts of calories and nutrients, though the types of nutrients remain relatively the same.

    It’s best to feed your puppy a food specifically made for puppies and then transition to adult food at the appropriate time. You know that your Border Collie isn’t happy sitting on the couch all day, so providing plenty of stimulating and vigorous exercise daily is a must. You need a food that delivers high-quality ingredients formulated to provide energy.

    Ingredients

    The ingredients list is the most important factor when choosing food. A balanced diet includes protein, carbohydrates, fat, fiber, vitamins, and minerals. Fillers and artificial ingredients should be avoided. Fortunately, Border Collies typically don’t suffer from many food allergies or sensitivities, so you have a wider variety of formulations to choose from.

    Protein

    Protein provides essential amino acids that help build strong muscles while supplying needed energy to get through the day. Look for high-quality protein sources such as meat and meat meal. Meat meal contains a higher amount of protein than fresh meat.

    Fat

    Fat is an essential nutrient to keep your Border Collie’s skin and coat healthy, as well as provide needed energy. Fats are easy to digest and make the food more enjoyable to eat. Don’t forget about fatty acids, such as those from fish oils and flaxseed. Fatty acids also support immune function and are essential for normal growth and reproduction.

    Calories

    Border Collies burn through calories because they are active and have high metabolisms. The average adult dog will consume 1,000 calories per day, while an active, working dog can require up to 1,400 calories.

    Carbohydrates

    Complex carbohydrates such as whole grains provide another source of energy and fiber to your dog’s diet. Fiber keeps your dog full and aids in digestion. Carbohydrates add palatability to the food and provide structure and texture to the kibble to reduce tartar buildup on your dog’s teeth.

    Vitamins and Minerals

    Calcium is an essential ingredient for active dogs to keep their bones strong, while other nutrients play an important part in keeping your furry friend healthy. Vitamins E and C support the immune system, and other minerals such as phosphorus and magnesium prevent deficiencies.

    border collie standing on grass
    Image Credit: JamesDeMers, Pixabay

     

    Common Ailments of Border Collies

    Your dog may or may not suffer from common ailments, but it is good to know the most common ones. Healthy diets provide a solid base to prevent problems from occurring in the future.

    • Hip Dysplasia: Due to their active nature, Collies with joint problems are not uncommon. Calcium and glucosamine can help maintain healthy joints and bones.
    • Eye concerns: Providing nutrients that support the eyes in the puppy stage is essential to maintaining eye health throughout a Collie’s life. Some issues are genetic, but it doesn’t hurt to provide DHA to your puppy to support healthy eye development.
    • Epilepsy: If your Border Collie suffers from epilepsy, the proportion of protein, fat, and carbohydrates in their food can affect prescribed medications.

    Price

    It can be expensive to feed your dog gourmet dog food, especially when you have more than one. If you know which nutrients your Border Collie requires, you can search for a brand within your budget. Providing a high-quality diet may prevent illnesses and other ailments that cost more in the long run.

    Tips for Feeding Your Border Collie

    • Though allergies aren’t common in Collies, they can still occur.
    • Most adult dogs require two meals per day.
    • Many Border Collies will overeat if food is available at all times. Thus, automatic feeders aren’t recommended.
    • Remember that a fresh water supply is important for keeping your dog healthy.

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    Conclusion

    It can be difficult to find the ideal food for your Border Collie. Many brands and formulas are available, but our top pick for the best dog food for Border Collies is The Farmer’s Dog Fresh Dog Food, which offers several recipes: turkey, beef, and chicken. Purina Adult Dog Chow is the best value because it is affordable and provides 100% complete and balanced nutrition for adult dogs.

    We hope this list is helpful to you and that the buyer’s guide provides insight into what to look for in quality dog food for a Border Collie. We know that your dog is important to you, and by providing optimal nutrition, you are showing them how much you love them.


    Featured Image Credit: Jacqueline Galand, Pixabay

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