Top Feed Brands for Optimal Livestock Health

Navigating the world of animal feed can be a daunting task for pet and livestock owners alike, given the plethora of brands claiming the top spot in nutrition. From premium dog food brands to specialized livestock feed, finding the right product is crucial for the health and well-being of our beloved animals. Quality ingredients, sustainable sourcing, and nutritional balance are key factors in determining the best options available. To help guide your decision, we invite you to explore the list of top feed brands below.

Illustration of feed

Best brands of feed in 2025

Purina

Purina is a leading producer of animal feed, renowned for its extensive research and innovative approaches. At their research facility, established in 1926, Purina collects over four billion data points annually across various species, including cattle, pigs, horses, and more. Their feed programs, such as the AMPLI-CALF program, have been shown to significantly increase milk production in dairy cows, with an increase of 2,788 pounds in the first lactation and 6,588 pounds over three lactations. Globally, Purina's cattle feed production is part of a larger market where cattle feed accounts for about 20% of total compound feed production, with specific regional variations. The company's commitment to optimizing feed efficiency and nutritional value is evident in their partnerships and advanced analytical tools. For more detailed insights, explore the billions of data points collected by researchers at Purina Farm.

Nutrena

Nutrena is a leading brand in the horse feed market, known for its high-quality and specialized feed solutions. In 2020, Nutrena introduced the Equine Performance recovery feed, which helps in decreasing muscle fatigue, restoring energy, and improving muscle recovery. Their products, such as Empower Topline Balance, offer low levels of starch and sugar, with Non-Structural Carbohydrates (NSC) as low as 10%, making them ideal for horses with metabolic sensitivities. Nutrena also offers hay replacer and hay extender products like SafeChoice Senior and Triumph Senior, which contain enough roughage to replace the hay/pasture portion of the diet. These innovations have positioned Nutrena as a trusted name among horse owners globally. You can explore more about their offerings on their official website.

Blue Buffalo

Blue Buffalo, acquired by General Mills in March 2018 for approximately $8 billion, has emerged as a leading brand in the pet food industry, particularly in the wholesome natural segment. Since the acquisition, Blue Buffalo has driven strong growth, increasing its U.S. distribution by four times and more than doubling its household penetration, contributing to a 15% compound annual net sales growth. The brand holds a significant market share, with over 6% of the U.S. pet food market in 2017 and continues to expand, including plans to launch new innovations and expand its presence in China and other international markets. Blue Buffalo's success is also marked by its leadership in the eCommerce channel and its strong performance in the specialty and FDM channels. The brand's revenue grew from $5 million in 2005 to $1.3 billion in 2017, showcasing its robust financial performance. For more detailed insights, you can read about Blue Buffalo's rapid growth under General Mills.

Hill's Science Diet

Hill's Science Diet is a leading brand in the pet nutrition industry, known for its science-led nutrition that supports a variety of pets' needs, including specialized nutrition for weight, skin, and stomach health. In 2023, Hill's Pet Nutrition, which includes the Science Diet brand, achieved a 15.5% increase in net sales to $4.29 billion, with organic sales growth of 10.5% and pricing rising by 11%. The brand is the US #1 Veterinarian Recommended brand, reflecting its strong reputation and quality. Despite challenges in raw material costs, Hill's continues to innovate, including the opening of a new manufacturing facility in Tonganoxie, Kansas, to support its wet food portfolios. This innovation has secured additional shelf space in the pet specialty channel.

Royal Canin

Royal Canin is a leading global pet food company, founded in 1968 by veterinarian Jean Cathary, with a strong focus on scientific research and advanced nutrition. The company is known for its specialized cat and dog food diets, and in the U.S., it holds a notable market share, although specific U.S. market share percentages are not as high as some other brands, such as Purina, which holds 29% of the U.S. market. Royal Canin's market share in India was over 15% in 2017, and the company continues to innovate with a recycling program in partnership with TerraCycle. With manufacturing facilities in the U.S. and France, Royal Canin ensures superior nutrition and quality across its products. The company's commitment to pet health is reflected in its advanced pet food manufacturing facilities and its engagement with pets on its campus. For more about their initiatives, visit the Royal Canin About Us page.

Pedigree

Pedigree, as one of the world's oldest and largest dog food brands, has demonstrated its commitment to both quality and social impact. The brand has seen a significant uplift in sales, with a 45% increase, by integrating its purpose of helping homeless dogs into its business strategy across eight countries. This approach not only drove business growth but also resulted in over 1,500 dog adoptions and a 57% increase in visits to dog shelters in test markets. Pedigree's market share has also been on the rise, with a 2.7% increase over the past five years, according to Nielsen data. The brand's success is further underscored by its position in the rapidly premiumizing pet care category, where it continues to be a key player. For more insights into Pedigree's initiatives, you can read their detailed report here.

Orijen

ORIJEN, a brand by Champion Petfoods, is renowned for its biologically appropriate pet food recipes, featuring 85%-95% premium animal ingredients, closely mirroring the natural diets of dogs and cats. Since 2021, ORIJEN has enhanced its formulations to include greater levels of probiotics, B and E vitamins, and antioxidants, and has increased the use of sustainable wild-caught salmon. Their foods are formulated by a team of animal food scientists and nutritionists with advanced degrees in veterinary medicine, animal nutrition, and food science. ORIJEN products are made in their own kitchens, ensuring high-quality and careful preparation. The brand's commitment to real kitchens and minimal synthetic ingredients sets it apart as a top choice for pet owners. For more information, visit their FAQ page.

Acana

ACANA, a brand under Champion Petfoods, is renowned for its high-quality pet food, formulated with fresh, regional meats and whole, fresh fruits and vegetables, free from antibiotics, artificial growth hormones, and GMO ingredients. Their diets are developed by a team of 20 research and innovation scientists, including a Doctor of Veterinary Medicine and several PhDs in Animal Nutrition and Food Science. ACANA's commitment to biological appropriateness ensures that their foods provide more energy from protein and less from carbohydrates, aligning with the natural dietary needs of pets. The brand adheres to strict EU regulations, ensuring the highest standards of meat ingredients. ACANA's focus on sustainability and quality has made it a preferred choice among pet owners globally.

Merrick

Merrick Pet Care is a leading producer of natural and organic pet food, known for its rapid growth and innovative product lines. Acquired by Nestle Purina in 2015, Merrick had achieved $300 million in annual revenue by 2013 and was the 18th largest pet food company globally. Despite a recent decline in market share, Merrick remains a significant player, leveraging over 10,000 product reviews across retail sites to enhance customer trust and satisfaction. The brand's strong focus on consumer-generated content and social media engagement has been highly effective in influencing consumer decisions. Merrick's products are widely available at independent pet specialty stores and major retailers. For more information, visit their official website.

Iams

Iams, though it has seen a decline in market share recently, with a 0.6% decrease over the past five years, is still a significant player in the pet food industry, particularly after being acquired by Mars Incorporated in 2014, which expanded its portfolio and market presence. Historically, Iams has been a top brand, with claims of surpassing Purina in certain sales quarters, although this data may not include all sales channels. For more information about their products, you can visit their official website.