Taste of the Wild High Prairie
Dogs with chicken or grain sensitivities who need novel protein sources at a reasonable price
Hill's Science Diet Adult Chicken & Barley
Owners who follow veterinary recommendations and want science-backed formulation
Score Comparison
Pricing & Features
Making Your Decision
When to Choose Taste of the Wild High Prairie
Dogs with chicken or grain sensitivities who need novel protein sources at a reasonable price
Taste of the Wild offers exotic proteins (bison, venison) at a surprisingly accessible price point. The grain-free formula suits dogs with sensitivities, though the FDA's ongoing DCM investigation into grain-free diets is worth monitoring. Excellent safety record and strong value for a novel-protein food.
Strengths
- Novel protein sources (roasted bison, roasted venison) ideal for dogs with common allergies
- Grain-free formula with sweet potatoes and peas as carb sources
- Clean safety record with zero recalls in 5+ years
Limitations
- Grain-free formulas have been investigated by FDA for potential DCM links
- Bison and venison are listed but meal forms provide the bulk of animal protein
- Made by Diamond Pet Foods — shares manufacturing with budget brands
When to Choose Hill's Science Diet Adult Chicken & Barley
Owners who follow veterinary recommendations and want science-backed formulation
Hill's Science Diet is the other pillar of veterinary-recommended nutrition alongside Purina Pro Plan. The formulation is precise and backed by feeding trials. However, corn gluten meal and by-product meal at ~$1.24/day makes it expensive for what you get ingredient-wise. You're paying for the research, not the ingredients.
Strengths
- Developed by veterinary nutritionists with extensive feeding trial validation
- Precise nutrient balance designed for optimal adult maintenance
- Clean safety record for dry food lines over the past 5+ years
Limitations
- Contains corn gluten meal and chicken by-product meal — not premium ingredients
- Higher price (~$1.24/day) for ingredient quality that trails premium competitors
- Minimal sourcing transparency — ingredient origins are not disclosed
