“What’s the best dog food in Nigeria?” The answer isn’t in fancy branding, it’s in the bowl. Poor nutrition leads to dull coats, low energy, and costly vet visits. But the right diet transforms your dog: shiny fur, strong stamina, and a resilient immune system.
With more Nigerians welcoming dogs into their homes, demand for quality food has exploded. Yet prices have surged since 2023. So, how do you feed your dog well without overspending?
This guide cuts through the hype, comparing protein quality, digestibility, and real cost across Nigeria’s top brands. Whether you’re raising a German Shepherd, a Boerboel, or a tiny Chihuahua, we analyzed vet recommendations, ingredients, and current prices to help you choose wisely.
Why Does Dog Food Matter in Nigeria?
Nigeria’s economic downturn has made feeding pets a luxury for many. A 15kg bag of local kibble now costs ₦70,000, an equavalent of the national minimum wage. Some breeders are even switching to homemade meals (noodles and fish) to cut costs.
But compromising on nutrition leads to long-term health risks:
- Weak joints (common in large breeds like Rottweilers)
- Dull coats and skin allergies (from low-quality fillers)
- Digestive issues (due to poorly balanced diets)
What Makes a Dog Food “Best” in this Day and Age?
We consulted veterinarians and pet nutritionists to identify key benchmarks:
- High-quality protein (Real meat as the first ingredient, not corn or soy)
- Digestibility (Smaller, firmer stools equals better nutrient absorption)
- Life-stage appropriate (Puppy, adult, senior, or active breeds)
- Local availability (No point recommending a brand you can’t find!)
10 Best Dog Food Brands in Nigeria
1. Royal Canin – Best for Breed-Specific Needs
- Why vets recommend it: Scientifically formulated for breeds like German Shepherds and Poodles.
- Key benefit: Contains DHA for brain development and glucosamine for joints.
- Where to buy: Major vet clinics and Jumia.
2. Taste of the Wild – Best Grain-Free Option
- Why active dogs love it: 32% protein from roasted bison and venison.
- Key benefit: Probiotics for gut health plus antioxidants from real berries.
- Where to buy: Specialty pet stores in Lagos/Abuja.
3. Reflex Plus – Best for Large Breeds
- Why Nigerian owners choose it: Real beef/chicken plus joint-supporting chondroitin.
- Key benefit: cheaper than Royal Canin.
- Where to buy: Jumia, Konga.
4️. Farmina N&D – Best Super-Premium Food
- Why it’s worth the splurge: 95% animal protein (no fillers).
- Key benefit: Low-glycemic (great for diabetic dogs).
- Where to buy: High-end pet shops (Pet Plaza Lagos).
5. Araton – Best European Budget Pick
- Why it’s trending: No artificial preservatives plus small-batch production.
- Key benefit: Easily digestible for sensitive stomachs.
- Where to buy: Online (Jumia).
6. Purina Pro Plan – Best for Weight Management
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- Why overweight dogs benefit: Live probiotics plus lean chicken protein.
- Key benefit: Prevents obesity (common in sedentary pets).
- Where to buy: Vet clinics, Jumia
7. Josera – Best German Import
- Why allergy-prone dogs love it: No corn/wheat plus New Zealand mussel extract.
- Key benefit: 75+ years of research behind formulations.
- Where to buy: Online.
8. Pedigree – Best Budget-Friendly
- Why it’s a fallback option: Fortified with omega fatty acids.
- Key downside: Contains by-products (lower protein quality).
- Where to buy: Supermarkets (Shoprite, Spar).
9. Booster Dog Food – Best for Active Dogs
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Booster Dog Food is a solid choice for active dogs needing joint support (Sport variant) or pets preferring wet food. However, protein levels vary significantly between formulas. For high-performance needs, the Sport dry food stands out, while the wet option suits less active dogs.
- Active Dog Focus: High protein (32% in Sport) and fat (20%) for energy.
- Natural Ingredients: No artificial preservatives or colors in the wet food variant.
- Palatability: Wet food praised for its gravy texture and appeal to picky eaters.
- Key downside: lower protein in wet food with only 7% crude protein in the gravy chunks.
- Where to buy: Local pet stores nationwide.
10. Binngo Dog Food
Made in Nigeria | Price ₦69,000
A solid choice for budget-conscious pet owners seeking a locally made, nutritionally complete diet. Ideal for dogs without picky eating habits.
- Affordable and cost-effective Nigerian brand with balanced nutrition, suitable for adult dogs of all breeds. Dogs maintained healthy weight and coat condition in long-term trials.
- High-Quality Ingredients: Contains poultry meal, fish meal, beef meal, and supplements like Yucca extract (for odor control) and probiotics for gut health.
- Locally Produced: Manufactured under hygienic conditions with GMP standards, reducing dependency on imported brand.
- Where to Buy: Available in pet stores across Nigeria
Your Top Dog Food Questions Answered
Q. What’s the best dog food for large breeds in Nigeria?
A. Royal Canin Maxi Adult (₦155,000) and Reflex Plus Maxi (₦52,000) lead for joint support and muscle maintenance.
Q. Are Nigerian-made dog foods good enough?
A. Yes, but with some caveats. Binggo provides basic nutrition at N69,000, but some dogs may initially reject the food, requiring mixing with wet food or gradual introduction.
Its limited flavour options lacks variety compared to international brands.
Q. How can I save on dog food without sacrificing quality?
A. Buy in bulk (15kg bags cost less per kg).
Subscribe and Save (10% off on Jumia/Konga).
Mix homemade meals (boiled eggs plus rice) occasionally.
Q. Is grain-free food better?
A. Only if your dog has allergies. Brands like Taste of the Wild (₦140,800) offer excellent grain-free options.
Final Tips for Dog Owners
Prioritize protein (Look for meat as the first ingredient).
Adjust portions (Overfeeding is as harmful as cheap food).
Check expiry dates (Some stores sell old stock due to low turnover).
Consult your vet (Especially for puppies or sick dogs).
“A well-fed dog is a happy, healthy companion.”
Please where can I get Taste of the wild to buy ?
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