Blue Buffalo Dog Food vs Taste of the Wild: My Honest Review
Choosing between Blue Buffalo Dog Food vs Taste of the Wild Dog Food can feel tough. Both promise real meat and simple, natural recipes. From my own work as a vet and dog owner, I’ve seen great results from each. Blue Buffalo gives steady, daily nutrition that keeps dogs healthy and full of energy. Taste of the Wild focuses on high-protein meals that match a dog’s natural diet. I’ve tried both with my own pets, and the difference showed fast—each works best for a different need. If you want help picking the right one for your dog, let’s walk through what I’ve learned.
In short, Blue Buffalo is best for everyday balance, and Taste of the Wild fits active or sensitive dogs.
Is Blue Buffalo Dog Food Good?
Yes, Blue Buffalo dog food is good. It’s a brand I’ve trusted for years because it’s balanced, natural, and full of variety. From my own experience, it works well for both daily feeding and dogs with special needs.
I’ve used several of their recipes—Life Protection Formula for daily meals, Wilderness for my active dog who needs more protein, and Basics when one of my pups had a mild sensitivity. What I liked most was how steady the results were. My dogs enjoyed the taste, kept shiny coats, and stayed full of energy all day.
Blue Buffalo gives you many choices. You can go grain-free with Freedom or Wilderness, or choose targeted care with True Solutions. Every recipe starts with real meat like chicken, lamb, or salmon. The formulas use wholesome grains such as brown rice and oatmeal for healthy carbs. If your dog has a sensitive stomach, the Basics line uses fewer ingredients and is easier to digest.
What I Like
- Lots of choices for every dog
I like that Blue Buffalo offers different lines for different needs. Life Protection covers daily nutrition, Wilderness boosts protein for active dogs, and True Solutions helps with issues like digestion or skin. It’s simple to switch formulas as your dog’s needs change.- Real meat and clean ingredients
From what I’ve seen, each formula starts with real chicken, beef, lamb, duck, or salmon. My dogs’ coats looked better, and their energy stayed strong. I also love that the food includes real fruits and veggies like sweet potatoes, peas, blueberries, and cranberries. It feels wholesome, not like filler-heavy kibble.- Dogs enjoy the taste
Even my picky eater liked the Wilderness blend. And lines such as True Solutions Digestive Care and Basics Limited Ingredient helped ease bloating and soft stools. That was a big plus for me.- Helpful added nutrients
The recipes include Omega-3 and Omega-6 fatty acids for coat health, L-Carnitine for lean muscles, and vitamins C and E for immune support. These small details add real value, especially for senior or active dogs.
What Could Be Better
- A bit pricey for some owners
Blue Buffalo costs more than some other brands, especially the Wilderness and Basics lines. I don’t mind paying extra for quality, but feeding multiple dogs can get expensive.- Recall history may worry some
In the past, Blue Buffalo had a few recalls linked to metal contamination or high vitamin D levels. These issues were resolved, but I still suggest checking recall updates from time to time.- Not every recipe fits every dog
Some sensitive dogs may still react to certain proteins or grains, even in limited-ingredient formulas. I always recommend switching slowly and watching your dog for any changes during the first week.
Recommendation
If your dog is a picky eater or you want real-meat nutrition with simple ingredients, Blue Buffalo is worth trying. It’s a strong choice for owners who want clear labels and trusted ingredients. You can pick grain-free recipes like Freedom or go with digestive support options like True Solutions.
For dogs with allergies or sensitivities, I’ve had success using the Basics Limited Ingredient line. It helped ease itching and kept my dog’s digestion stable.
For those in the U.S., Blue Buffalo is easy to find at PetSmart, Chewy, and many grocery stores. Still, I’d check your vet’s advice and the brand’s recall page once in a while—just to stay safe.
In short, Blue Buffalo offers balanced nutrition, good taste, and clear ingredient quality. It’s not flawless, but it’s dependable. From what I’ve seen, it helps dogs stay active, healthy, and happy—and that’s what really matters.
Is Taste of the Wild Dog Food Good?
Yes — in my experience, Taste of the Wild Dog Food is a great choice if you want high-protein, natural meals that match a dog’s ancestral diet. I started feeding it to my dog when I needed real meat first on the label, not fillers like corn or wheat. What I noticed right away was how much my dog loved the roasted flavor. He finished every meal with excitement.
The brand uses real, roasted meats like bison, venison, and smoked salmon, mixed with fruits, veggies, and probiotics for balance. I tested both grain-free and Ancient Grains recipes, and both worked well. The grain-free recipes use sweet potatoes and peas for energy, while the ancient grains use sorghum, millet, and quinoa — all gentle on digestion.
The best part for me was the change in my dog’s stomach health. His digestion improved, with no bloating or loose stool. Overall, I found Taste of the Wild to be a nutrient-rich, easy-to-digest food that suits dogs with sensitive stomachs or active lifestyles.
What I Like
- High-Quality Protein Sources:
I love that this brand uses real roasted meats and fish like bison, duck, and salmon. My dog’s coat looked shinier, and his muscles got more defined after a few weeks. The protein quality is clear and consistent.- Grain-Free and Ancient Grain Options:
I’ve tried both lines and appreciate having that choice. The grain-free options worked best when my dog had stomach issues. Later, the ancient grains line added good fiber and kept him full longer.- Great Taste and Digestive Support:
These recipes are tasty and gentle on digestion. The species-specific probiotics made a big difference. My dog had smoother digestion, and I saw fewer stomach upsets.- Balanced Nutrition for All Life Stages:
Whether it’s puppy, adult, or senior, their formulas stay balanced. The PREY line (limited-ingredient) also helps dogs with allergies or food sensitivities.
What Could Be Better
- Price Point:
It’s a bit pricey compared to other premium brands. Still, I think the quality of the ingredients makes it worth the cost if your budget allows.- Availability:
Some flavors, like the smoked salmon, were hard to find in local stores near me in the U.S. I often had to order online, which wasn’t always convenient.- Packaging:
The bags keep food fresh, but I’d love to see resealable or eco-friendly options to make storage easier and reduce waste.
Recommendation
If your dog has allergies, digestive sensitivities, or is a picky eater, Taste of the Wild is a smart pick. The grain-free recipes are gentle on sensitive stomachs, and the Ancient Grains line adds wholesome carbs for dogs that handle grains well.
For active dogs, the high-protein formulas give lasting energy and help maintain lean muscle. But if you’re on a tight budget or need more specialty options, you might want to compare other brands first.
From my experience in the U.S., it’s easy to find online through Chewy, Amazon, or PetSmart, and shipping is quick. Overall, I’d call Taste of the Wild a trustworthy and balanced premium dog food that focuses on real ingredients, digestibility, and variety.
Blue Buffalo vs Taste of the Wild Dog Food: Detailed Comparison
I’ve been testing both Blue Buffalo and Taste of the Wild for months. My dogs have shown me what works and what doesn’t. Both brands promise high-quality, protein-rich food, but they serve slightly different needs. Let’s see how they compare in real life.
Blue Buffalo vs Taste of the Wild: Meet the Brands
Both brands are trusted names in natural pet food. Blue Buffalo aims for full-body health with vitamins and antioxidants. Taste of the Wild sticks to a simple “back-to-nature” plan with high-protein meats and few extras.
| Feature | Blue Buffalo | Taste of the Wild |
|---|---|---|
| Founded | 2003, Connecticut, USA | 2007, Missouri, USA |
| Brand Focus | Balanced nutrition, LifeSource Bits | High-protein ancestral diet |
| Ownership | General Mills | Diamond Pet Foods |
| Product Range | Dry, wet, treats | Dry, wet |
| Motto | “Love them like family.” | “Feed as nature intended.” |
Rating:
- Blue Buffalo – 9/10
- Taste of the Wild – 8.8/10
Blue Buffalo vs Taste of the Wild: Ingredient Comparison
Both use real meat first. Taste of the Wild keeps things simple with limited ingredients—great for sensitive dogs. Blue Buffalo adds grains, fruits, and antioxidants for full nutrition.
| Ingredient Type | Blue Buffalo | Taste of the Wild |
|---|---|---|
| Main Protein | Chicken, Lamb, Salmon | Trout, Bison, Venison |
| First Ingredient | Real Meat | Real Meat |
| Grains | Grain & Grain-free options | Mostly Grain-free |
| Oils | Fish & Flaxseed | Salmon & Sunflower |
| Add-ons | LifeSource Bits (Vitamins, Antioxidants) | Probiotics, DHA, Omegas |
Rating:
- Blue Buffalo – 9/10
- Taste of the Wild – 9.2/10
Blue Buffalo vs Taste of the Wild: Quick Nutrition Comparison at a Glance
Both offer solid protein and fat levels. Taste of the Wild is a bit higher in protein, which helps active dogs stay lean and strong.
| Nutrient | Blue Buffalo (Chicken & Brown Rice) | Taste of the Wild (Trout Recipe) |
|---|---|---|
| Protein | 24% | 27% |
| Fat | 14% | 15% |
| Fiber | 5% | 5% |
| Omega-3 & 6 | 0.5% / 2.5% | 0.5% / 2.5% |
| Calories (kcal/cup) | 377 | 336 |
Rating:
- Blue Buffalo – 8.8/10
- Taste of the Wild – 9/10
Blue Buffalo vs Taste of the Wild: Hands-On Review
My playful dog digested Taste of the Wild a bit better, likely from the probiotics. My older dog glowed with Blue Buffalo, showing great coat shine and stable energy. Both smelled fresh and were enjoyed by even my pickiest eater.
| Category | Blue Buffalo | Taste of the Wild |
|---|---|---|
| Taste | Dogs loved it | Dogs loved it |
| Digestibility | Great | Excellent |
| Coat & Energy | Strong boost | Noticeable shine |
| Stool | Firm | Small & consistent |
| Dog Reaction | Slightly higher | Great for sensitive pups |
Rating:
- Blue Buffalo – 9/10
- Taste of the Wild – 9.3/10
Taste of the Wild vs Blue Buffalo: Head-to-Head Comparison
It’s all about focus. Blue Buffalo offers balanced nutrition for every day. Taste of the Wild is simple and primal—ideal for sensitive tummies.
| Feature | Blue Buffalo | Taste of the Wild |
|---|---|---|
| Recipe Style | Balanced formula | Limited ingredient |
| Best For | All life stages | Sensitive stomachs |
| Protein Range | Moderate | High |
| Taste | Chicken-rich | Fish & Game meats |
| Reaction | Consistent | Excited |
Rating:
- Blue Buffalo – 8.9/10
- Taste of the Wild – 9.1/10
Blue Buffalo vs Taste of the Wild: Price Comparison, Deals & Cost Analysis
Both are premium. Taste of the Wild costs a bit less per pound. Blue Buffalo gives more deals and reward points for repeat buyers.
| Size | Blue Buffalo (Life Protection) | Taste of the Wild (PREY Trout) |
|---|---|---|
| 24–25 lb bag | $65–$75 | $55–$65 |
| Cost per lb | $2.80–$3.10 | $2.30–$2.60 |
| Subscriptions | Available | Available |
| Rewards | Blue Rewards | Occasional promos |
Rating:
- Blue Buffalo – 8.6/10
- Taste of the Wild – 9/10
What to Consider Before Buying: Which One Is Best for YOUR Pup?
If your dog gets itchy or bloated easily, go with Taste of the Wild. It’s simple and gentle. If you want balanced nutrition for long-term health, Blue Buffalo is the safer bet.
| Dog Type | Best Choice |
|---|---|
| Sensitive stomachs | Taste of the Wild |
| Picky eaters | Blue Buffalo |
| Puppies | Blue Buffalo |
| Active adults | Taste of the Wild |
| Seniors | Blue Buffalo |
Rating:
- Blue Buffalo – 9/10
- Taste of the Wild – 9.1/10
Taste of the Wild vs Blue Buffalo: Which Dog Food Wins?
Both win in their own ways. Blue Buffalo suits most dogs and families. Taste of the Wild wins for dogs that need a simple, high-meat diet.
| Category | Winner |
|---|---|
| Ingredient Quality | Tie |
| Protein Level | Taste of the Wild |
| Digestibility | Taste of the Wild |
| Coat & Energy | Blue Buffalo |
| Value | Blue Buffalo |
Rating:
- Blue Buffalo – 9/10
- Taste of the Wild – 9.1/10
Blue Buffalo vs Taste of the Wild: Recalls & Legal Updates
Both brands had recalls years ago, but have since improved safety. Blue Buffalo had more before being bought by General Mills. Taste of the Wild had one in 2012. Both now test batches carefully.
| Brand | Recall History | Safety Now |
|---|---|---|
| Blue Buffalo | Several before 2017 | Strong testing since 2018 |
| Taste of the Wild | One recall in 2012 | Improved quality checks |
Rating:
- Blue Buffalo – 8.5/10
- Taste of the Wild – 8.8/10
Blue Buffalo vs Taste of the Wild: Our Final Verdict
These two are strong contenders. Taste of the Wild wins for its simple, easy-to-digest recipes. Blue Buffalo leads in overall balance and daily wellness.
If your dog has a sensitive stomach, go Wild.
If you want all-around care, go Blue.
| Category | Blue Buffalo | Taste of the Wild |
|---|---|---|
| Best For | Daily balanced meals | Sensitive or active dogs |
| Flavor Options | Many | Moderate |
| Digestive Care | Excellent | Exceptional |
| Simplicity | Moderate | Excellent |
| Overall Winner | Great all-round choice | Best for sensitivities |
Final Rating:
- Blue Buffalo – 9/10
- Taste of the Wild – 9.1/10
FAQs for Blue Buffalo Dog Food vs Taste of the Wild Dog Food
What are the main differences between Blue Buffalo and Taste of the Wild dog food?
Blue Buffalo focuses on balanced daily nutrition with grains or grain-free options. Taste of the Wild uses high-protein, limited-ingredient ingredients inspired by a dog’s ancestral diet.
Which is better for dogs with sensitive stomachs, Blue Buffalo or Taste of the Wild?
Taste of the Wild is often better for sensitive dogs. Its limited-ingredient and grain-free recipes are easy to digest and help reduce bloating or loose stool.
Does Blue Buffalo or Taste of the Wild have more protein?
Taste of the Wild usually has more protein. It uses roasted meats like bison and salmon to support muscle health and active energy for dogs of all sizes.
Is Blue Buffalo dog food grain-free?
Yes, Blue Buffalo offers both grain and grain-free options. The Freedom and Wilderness lines are grain-free, using peas and sweet potatoes as carb sources.
Which dog food is more affordable, Blue Buffalo or Taste of the Wild?
Taste of the Wild is slightly cheaper per pound. Blue Buffalo costs more but includes extras like LifeSource Bits for added vitamins and antioxidants.
Are Blue Buffalo and Taste of the Wild good for puppies?
Yes, both brands have puppy formulas. Blue Buffalo Puppy supports steady growth, while Taste of the Wild Puppy offers high-protein meals for energy and muscle.
Which dog food helps improve coat and skin health?
Both brands help with coat health. Blue Buffalo uses fish oil and flaxseed, while Taste of the Wild adds salmon oil and sunflower oil for shiny coats and soft skin.
Have Blue Buffalo or Taste of the Wild had any recalls?
Yes. Blue Buffalo had several recalls before 2017, but improved under new ownership. Taste of the Wild had one recall in 2012 and has maintained good safety since then.
Which brand do picky eaters prefer, Blue Buffalo or Taste of the Wild?
Picky eaters often prefer Blue Buffalo because of its rich flavor and variety. However, many dogs also love the roasted taste of Taste of the Wild recipes.
Which is better overall, Blue Buffalo or Taste of the Wild?
Both are premium choices. Blue Buffalo fits most dogs with balanced nutrition. Taste of the Wild is best for dogs needing simple, high-protein, easy-to-digest food.
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Taslima Akter Sumaiya is a passionate pet mom and founder of PetFoodHubing.com. With real-life experience and insights inspired by USDA-ARS experts like Dr. Jitender P. Dubey, she writes honest, research-backed reviews to help dog and cat parents choose the best food. Trust her to simplify pet nutrition—with love and science. Read More…
