Hill’s Science Diet Dog Food Reviews: Puppy, Adult & Senior Formulas

Are you seeking the best nutrition for your pup but struggling to pick from the vast ocean of options? You’re not alone! We are on a mission to make the world of dog nutrition simple for every dog mom and dad. So we have picked some of the best brands and reviewed them in their entirety.

In this guide, we’ll be taking a detailed look at the well-known and well-loved premium brand, Science Diet. Science Diet is one of the most popular lines from Hill’s Pet Nutrition brand. Essentially, they use science in each formula to provide the best nutrition for every pup.

Not only will we look at their brand and recall history. We also take a look at their range of formulas for puppies, adults, and seniors, including options for the chunky and fussy pups out there. Hopefully, after reading this guide, you’ll know whether Hill’s Science Diet is the best pick for your pooch. So, let’s get down to business.

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Brand History

Science Diet is one of the most popular brands across the world, not just here in America. It is a line of formulas made by Hill’s Pet Nutrition, which is marketed as Hill’s. Hill’s also markets a separate product range called the Prescription Diet. This is a line of pet food dedicated to specific health issues, and these products require a sign-off from the vet.

Hill’s was founded in 1907, but it began as an animal disposal company. On the side, they produced farm animal feed and produced meat scraps, tallow, and hides. By the 1930s, they had changed direction away from animal disposal and focused on farm animal feed and dog food. So, this is where their journey really began.

During this time, the dog owner of a dog with kidney failure asked a leading vet who worked with Hill’s to create a pet food that would resolve this serious health issue. After a successful venture, they began focusing on several other formulas. Which eventually formed their new product line, Science Diet. Their slogan is ‘lifelong health starts with science.’

Hill’s Pet Nutrition was eventually sold to the worldwide brand Colgate-Palmolive in 1976. This raised the brand’s reputation to the global platform. As a result, they are now sold on almost every online pet food website and sold in most pet stores and veterinarians in the developed world. We have compared Science Diet to several other brands, including Diamond Naturals.

Recall History

Food Ingredients

Taking a look at a pet food brand’s recall history is very important in the research process. It can tell you a lot about whether they take the safety of our beloved pups seriously. When the quality or the safety of a food product is discovered, it should be recalled from the shelves and announced to customers. This can be done voluntarily by the brand themselves. Or by the US Food & Drug Administration (FDA).

Considering Hill’s Science Diet has been in production for many decades, you might expect many recalls. But thankfully, this is not the case. From online sources and records, they have only had three recalls — an impressive feat! So let’s take a look at what happened and how they dealt with them.

The first recall occurred in June 2014. This concerned only 62 bags of kibble, and it was suspected that they were potentially contaminated with salmonella. Science Diet quickly identified these products and recalled them, and thankfully there were no reported issues. This was a result of their manufacturing process, and they were quick to resolve the issue.

The second recall occurred in January 2019. Again, science Diet voluntarily recalled a select batch of canned dog foods because there was a potential for elevated vitamin D levels. The third recall occurred two months later, and it was an extension of the second recall. So some would say they have only had two recalls! They voluntarily recalled further products with suspected vitamin D level concerns. This issue was blamed on supplier error.

You can see there have only been a few recalls, which is impressive in itself. The first recall was as a result of their manufacturing process. But despite possibly undermining themselves as a brand, they put the safety of our dogs first. They recalled products that were potentially contaminated. Again, they were quick to act regarding the second and third recalls, and it was blamed on supplier error. They quickly resolved the issues, and it has not happened since.

Blue Buffalo offers a range of different flavors in its dog food.  The brand adds no preservatives, by-product fillers, or artificial flavors in its food. On their website, they state that their food does not contain wheat, soy, or corn. These ingredients are often known to trigger dog allergies.

The main ingredients in Blue Buffalo dog food include rabbit, chicken, beef, lamb, turkey, salmon, duck, trout, and oatmeal. Most formulas also add a variety of vegetables, fruits, enzymes, probiotics, and dry tomato pomace. Each of these formulas is fortified with vitamins. They also include recognizable fats, like chicken fat. These are an excellent source of fatty acids.

Unlike other companies, Blue Buffalo doesn’t use ambiguous wording when describing the ingredients in their foods. Their labels use definitive descriptions like real turkey and chicken meat as a protein source.

Food Ingredients

Science Diet bases their recipes on science, which means that they usually use the same ingredients in most of their recipes. However, they use them in different quantities based on the needs of the target dog. Let’s take a look at the ingredients Science Diet uses.

They use real meat in most of their recipes, and chicken and lamb are their favorite meats to use. Often, meat is listed as the first ingredient, but this is not always the case. They also use meat meals, such as chicken meal, which is a concentrated form of protein. It is rich in glucosamine too, which is great for joint health. The average protein content across their range is 24%, which is below the quality-brand average. However, many dogs do better on less-rich formulas.

In some recipes, Science Diet will use meat by-products. This is a controversial ingredient that is basically all non-meat parts of an animal. Sometimes this can include animal parts such as feet, beaks, and hair, which are not nutritionally beneficial. And some say this makes it a lower-quality ingredient. However, many quality brands, like Royal Canin, use meat by-products.

Science Diet uses grains in almost all of its recipes. There is only one option for dog owners who opt for a grain-free diet or dogs who need a grain-free diet. This is the adult formula for dogs with sensitive skin and stomachs. The rest of their grain-inclusive products typically use barley, wheat, corn, sorghum, and brewer’s rice. They are mainly used for energy content and are of moderate nutritional value. Overall, Science Diet has an above-average carbohydrate content.

All of their recipes are fortified with vitamins and minerals, which is great for Fido’s immunity and overall health. They also use recognizable fats such as chicken fat. It is high in linoleic acid, which is an omega-6 fatty acid crucial for wellness. This is a high-quality fat. From looking at the ingredients lists, probiotic ingredients do not feature in their recipes. Although this is not necessary, it aids smooth digestion, so Fido will miss out on this.

The only criticism that some nutritionists have is that Science Diet does not use 100% natural ingredients in every formula. However, this is only a criticism of those who believe dogs should be fed a 100% natural diet. There is no scientific evidence to prove this is beneficial. In fact, Science Diet’s evidence shows that a scientific-based formula benefits Fido’s health. If dogs do better on an ingredient that is not 100% natural, they’ll choose this. So, this all depends on your viewpoint.

Science Diet Formulas

Unlike many other brands, such as Blue Buffalo, Science Diet does not offer different product lines. Instead, Science Diet is the formula line, and everything is included under one name. This makes choosing a formula much easier because you don’t have to worry about choosing between different names that often mean nothing. Nice and simple, this is a huge benefit for many confused dog owners.

However, there are several formulas within the line that can be categorized into three different dietary groups. Many owners who consider Hill’s Science Diet seek these options, so it’s worth covering them in their own right. Let’s take a look at these choices.

Sensitive Digestion

There are 11 food options designed for doggos with sensitive digestion needs. These cater to small and large breeds offering different flavors. The most common flavor is chicken, and there is one salmon option. These formulas will nourish your pup from the inside out. The optimized combination of vitamin E and omega-6 fatty acids takes care of skin and coat health and prebiotics assist smoother, regular digestion.

Weight Loss

There are six weight control food offerings. All of the options are for adults, but this is not an issue because puppies should not be put on a weight control diet unless prescribed by your veterinarian. There are options for all adults, including small breeds and large breeds.

There are several different options, including recipes with different grains and smaller kibble for those with small mouths or who struggle to eat normal-sized kibble. Unfortunately, these are all chicken-based meat recipes. So we hope your chunky canine likes chicken otherwise, you’ll have to pick another brand altogether.

No Corn, Wheat, or Soy

There are six food offerings that do not use corn, wheat, or soy. Corn, wheat, and soy are grain ingredients that some nutritionists say are more difficult to digest and can cause allergies. However, there is no conclusive evidence to suggest this is true. It is only true in some dogs, but remember that all dogs are different! Ultimately, vets will recommend this diet for some dogs, so it’s a great option for a brand to offer.

Science Diet Dog Food Reviews

Regardless of their lifespan, all dogs have three life stages; puppyhood, adulthood, and senior years. Before, dog owners would feed the same kibble to their dogs across their lifetime. But research shows that dogs have different nutritional needs at each life stage. So, brands must offer dogs these different life stage options. So, let’s jump into each category by age.

Puppy Formulas

It’s widely recognized that small breeds and large breeds have different nutritional needs during puppyhood, along with different flavor preferences and ingredient intolerances. So there should be a variety of puppy kibbles for all shapes, sizes, flavors, and dietary preferences.

Science Diet has a total of six different puppy options. There is a general option for pups and an option that does not contain corn, wheat, or soy. There are two large breed options, with one being chicken flavored and the other being lamb flavored. The lamb-based option is chicken-free, which is great for pups allergic to chicken protein. There is another for small breed pups and a kibble option with smaller, easier-to-eat kibble pieces.

Overall, there is a good mix to cater to most pups. So let’s take a deeper look into three of the most popular puppy formulas.

This is Science Diet’s generic puppy formula, aimed at the healthy development of all medium-sized puppies. This is formulated for pups up to the age of one year, and it is suitable for pregnant and nursing dogs, too, as it is higher in nutrients and growing power. The first ingredient is a tasty and nutritious chicken meal. The protein content is 25%, which is AAFCO compliant.

This grain-inclusive formula uses wheat, barley, and sorghum, providing plenty of energy for playful puppies. Chicken fat, fish oil, and flaxseed provide a balance of omega fatty acids. These are important for the healthy development of pups, plus it keeps their skin soft and supple. In addition, this recipe is fortified in vitamins and minerals, which are important for immunity development.

This option is called Small Paws, which caters to small and mini breed puppies who will weigh up to 25 pounds at maturity. The first ingredient is chicken meal, which is yummy and full of amino acids for puppy development. All puppies need a minimum protein content of 22%, and this option provides 24.5%, which is great.

The grains used in this recipe are wheat, sorghum, and corn while chicken fat is the primary fat Combining this with flaxseed and fish oil supplies pups with all the omega fatty acid goodness they need to develop healthily, especially their cognitive and eye function. Antioxidants, along with vitamin C and E, boost developing immunity and overall wellness.

This option is designed for large breed puppies expected to weigh 55 pounds or more at maturity. Like the other puppy options, the first ingredient is chicken meal, contributing to the 24% protein content. This is also a grain-inclusive option, and the first grains used are wheat, oats, and sorghum. Oats are known to be more gentle on the digestive system.

This large breed option has controlled levels of calcium, phosphorus, vitamin D, and fats. This is crucial for large breed pups as it helps control bone growth, which can prevent the development of skeletal diseases. Chicken fat, flaxseed, and fish oil are also featured in this puppy kibble. And glucosamine and chondroitin are mentioned for large breed joints. Large breed puppies also have the choice of a lamb-based option which other sized-pups don’t have.

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Adult Formulas

The adult life stage is usually the longest, and it typically covers the ages of one to seven years of age. Science Diet offers a total of 36 adult formulas. These cover a wide range of sizes and offer three flavor options; chicken, lamb, and salmon. There are also a few specific dietary offerings, including sensitive skin and stomach, weight management, oral care, healthy mobility, and perfect digestion.

So, again, Science Diet does well in the adult life stage by catering to various sizes and needs. So, let’s take a look at a variety of some of the most popular adult formulas.

This is the generic adult kibble that does not cater to a specific size or dietary need, making it a great option for most adult dogs. It is also a chicken-free recipe that is great for any adult dog intolerant of this most commonly used meat protein. It lists chicken fat still, but this does not usually affect those with chicken allergies. Lamb meal is the first ingredient, and it offers a protein content of 19.5%. Lamb is typically easy to digest protein compared to chicken.

The first three carbohydrates supplying ingredients are brown rice, brewers rice, and sorghum. Brown rice is a gentle ingredient for easier digestion. In addition, the exclusive blend of omega fatty acids and other vitamins ensures that your dog’s skin is noticeably shiny and supple. Taurine is listed in this recipe for cardiac support and other minerals for immunity health.

This formula is designed with small dog breeds in mind, thanks to the easier-to-eat kibble pieces. It is also a great option for dogs who prefer smaller kibble bites too. The first ingredient in this recipe is real chicken, and chicken meal is also listed further down. The protein content is 20%, which exceeds the adult recommendation of 18%.

This is a grain-inclusive option that lists barley, wheat, and corn as the primary grains, providing lots of energy for compact canines. Chicken fat and flaxseed provide the essential fatty acids for continued health. These ingredients, along with other vitamins, allow Science Diet to claim that you should notice a difference in your dog’s coat health and shine after just 30 days.

This option is the most popular formula for large breed adults weighing 55 pounds or more. The first ingredient is real chicken, and chicken meal is also listed for an extra protein boost for muscle maintenance. The protein content in this recipe is 20%. A mixture of vitamins and minerals ensures that your large breed pooch is supported in fighting illness and disease.

Barley, wheat, and corn are the primary grains listed in this recipe, providing energy and other nutrients for the best adult health. In addition, taurine can be seen in the ingredients lists, supporting cardiac health, which is a common concern in large breeds. This recipe is aimed at large breed dogs aged one to five years. This is because large dog breeds typically have a shorter life span and reach their senior stage sooner.

This is one of Science Diets’ top formulas across their entire product line, so you can be sure it is good at what it says it does! This option is designed specifically for adult dogs with sensitive skin and stomachs. It is crafted with beet pulp which is a prebiotic fiber. It helps soothe the digestive process, producing firmer and healthier stools too.

Flaxseed, chicken fat, biotin, and vitamin E nourish dry and sensitive skin from the inside out, which in turn promotes coat health. The first ingredient is chicken, with chicken meal listed third, both contributing to the 21% protein content. Brewer’s rice, yellow peas, and barley are the primary ingredients supplying the energy for your dog’s day ahead.

We previously mentioned that Science Diet offers various weight management kibbles for dogs of all shapes and sizes. This is the perfect weight recipe designed for average-sized adult pooches who are struggling to maintain their weight. Chicken fat is replaced by coconut oil, and the overall fat content is much lower than other recipes. In addition, the calorie count per cup is lower than 300 calories, and l-carnitine helps to stimulate doggy metabolisms.

The fiber content is noticeably higher than the other recipes, helping keep pups feeling fuller longer and helping with weight management. Carrots, peas, and beet pulp are prebiotic fibers that also aid in healthier digestion. Chicken is the first ingredient, with chicken meal also listed. The protein content is 24%. Although this seems higher than the other recipes, pea fiber is listed in this formula which is high in protein.

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Senior Formulas

There are a total of eight senior-specific recipes offered by Science Diet. The senior life stage typically starts at the age of seven years, and most of these recipes start then. One option is designed for dogs aged 11+, which is great for even slower senior pups and their changing needs. Not many brands cater to this higher age bracket, so this is a great product from Science Diet.

These formulas cater to different-sized breeds, including small and large. In addition, there are two options catering to senior vitality, which promote the active function of aging brains. Two options are also corn, wheat, and soy-free for those who struggle to digest these grains. Overall, Science Diet does well in catering to the whole senior market. So, let’s take a look at three of their most popular options for our beloved golden oldies.

This recipe is aimed at medium-sized dog breeds with no specific dietary needs, making this a top choice for most senior dogs. Chicken meal is the first ingredient, and the protein content is 15.5%. This protein content might seem low compared to the others. But most senior dogs need a less meaty option because they struggle to digest rich recipes in their older age.

Senior dogs need much less energy. So Science Diet has created this senior recipe by making the fat content and calorie count per cup much lower than the recipes in previous life stages. Barley, rice, and wheat are the primary grains and carbohydrate-based ingredients. The exclusive blend of these ingredients and other nutrients promotes youthful vitality in dogs. It is said to show in just 30 days.

From the Small Paws range, this recipe caters to the senior needs of small and toy breeds aged 11 years and over. As you can imagine, the nutritional needs of dogs aged 11 are much different from those of a more active 7 year old. Science Diet describes this as an age-defying recipe that ensures continued vitality and mobility in older dogs.

Chicken meal is the first ingredient, which contributes towards the protein content of 18%. Barley, brewer’s rice, and wheat are the primary grains here. Chicken fat, fish oil, and flaxseed provide the much-needed healthy omega fatty acids for overall wellness, brain function, cardiac support, and coat health. Plus, each kibble piece is enriched with immunity support in the form of vitamins and minerals.

This recipe starts a bit earlier than the other senior recipes. And that’s because large breeds tend to reach their senior years earlier than smaller-sized breeds. Like before, this recipe is aimed at dogs weighing 55 pounds or more, including giant breeds weighing over 100 pounds. The joints of large senior breeds have taken some pounding over the years. This is why this recipe includes a higher glucosamine and chondroitin content to take this into account.

Chicken meal is the first ingredient, and the protein content is also 15.5%. Barley, rice, and wheat are the primary grains and provide the basic energy needed in their less active years. Taurine is listed for aging cardiac support, and l-carnitine helps to keep them healthy and lean too. This recipe is also fortified with vitamins and minerals to ensure strong immunity.

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Wet Food Formulas

Some dogs are fussy and will only eat their kibble with flavorful and juicy toppings. And older dogs or those with weak teeth or jaws often struggle to chew dried kibble. Although dried kibbles are the preferred form of food for most dogs, it is also important for brands to offer wet foods.

Science Diet offers a total of 32 wet foods in different flavors and recipes, catering to puppies, adults, and seniors, and small breeds along with special dietary needs like weight management and sensitive skin and stomach. There are also grain-free options. So, let’s take a closer look at some of the most popular wet food options.

This option does not follow any recipes in the dried kibble offerings, but it would compliment any dried kibble. Like before, the first ingredient is chicken broth. The next two ingredients are real chicken and pork liver. Carrots, green beans, and spinach provide the prebiotic fiber for better stool health and smooth digestion. Fish oil provides healthy omega fatty acid nourishment, and this recipe is fortified in vitamins and minerals.

Chicken broth is the first ingredient, which adds flavor and keeps the food moist. The second ingredient is salmon, which is also full of flavor. It is rich in healthy omega fatty acids. Turkey is also listed, which boosts the protein content, and it is a lean and healthy protein source. Carrots and green beans are prebiotic fibers that are great for the digestive system. There are three other meat flavors for those with sensitive stomachs and skin who aren’t fans of salmon.

This option is designed to complement the perfect weight kibbles we reviewed above. This is aimed at adult dogs who want to achieve a healthy weight. Chicken broth is the first recipe, which keeps the formula tasty and juicy. Pork liver and chicken are the two main meat protein sources. Carrots, green beans, and spinach provide prebiotic fibers that help keep canines feeling fuller for longer and add to their immunity strength. In addition, L-carnitine helps to keep the metabolism stimulated.

This option is another complementary wet food that is similar to the puppy kibble we reviewed earlier. So, if your pup likes that, they are bound to like this wet food too. This recipe is designed for puppies up to one-year-old or pregnant or nursing mothers. This wet food is much higher in protein compared to the other wet foods, and that’s because puppies need the extra growing power. Chicken is the main protein source, and fish oil provides the much-need omega fats for puppy development.

This wet food pick also complements the senior vitality choice in the dried kibble options. The first ingredient is chicken broth for juiciness and flavor, and this wet food is a tasty stew-design recipe. And chicken and pork liver are the next two ingredients that provide the protein needed for continued activity in older years. In addition, this recipe is fortified in powerful antioxidants that support a healthy brain and the desire to play.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Having gone through everything you need to know about the Science Diet brand, there are still questions left lingering in some dog owners’ minds. Here are some of the most frequently asked questions regarding Science Diet.

Is Science Diet a high-quality brand?

Yes, Hill’s Science Diet is a high-quality brand that is well-trusted and reviewed the world over. This is why we have reviewed them as a high-quality pet food brand. Their ethos is ‘lifelong health starts with science,’ and that’s exactly what they strive to achieve. They use quality ingredients that undergo stringent safety checks. And they take the safety of our pups seriously, as demonstrated by their recall history.

Which Science Diet formula is best for my dog?

This all depends on your dog and its needs. All dogs are different. They come in all shapes and sizes, and they have different nutritional needs based on their age. Plus, all dogs have flavor preferences, ingredient intolerances, and dietary needs that need meeting. So the easiest way to find the best formula for your pooch is to start with their age and size, then look through the appropriate options from there.

Why do vets recommend Science Diet?

Science Diet is based upon scientific research into the nutritional needs of dogs. This is why many veterinarians recommend this diet. It helps dogs lead better, healthier lives, reducing the need to rely on medication in some cases. Science Diet is a well-established and trusted brand, providing high-quality food for our beloved four-legged besties.

Where is Science Diet dog food manufactured?

Science Diet is manufactured in the USA, made with globally sourced ingredients. Although this might make some pet owners wary, Science Diet has strict safety protocols that they are constantly monitoring. They meet the high standards expected in the USA and that your pooch deserves. As you can see in the recall history section, Science Diet takes the safety of our pups seriously.

I’ve chosen a Science Diet product, but my dog is turning his nose up. What should I do?

There are several reasons why your pup might be turning his nose up at his food. He could be unsure of the change in the recipe but give him time, and he’ll give it a go and probably love it. If not, try adding a little water or sodium-free chicken broth to the kibble pieces to release the flavor and entice him to eat it. However, for very few dogs, they just might not like it. In this case, you might have to try a different recipe or brand altogether. But as you can see from the high reviews online, this rarely happens with Science Diet products.

What is the difference between Hill’s Science Diet and Hill’s Prescription Diet?

The main difference is that Hill’s Science Diet can be bought by any dog owner. Although Hill’s Prescription Diet packaging looks very similar, it can only be bought with a veterinary prescription and often at the vet’s office. Science Diet covers general dietary needs, such as sensitive skin and stomachs and weight management, whereas Prescription Diet covers specific dietary and medical needs, such as urinary, dental, and brain aging care.

If you think your pooch would benefit from a specifically prescribed food, you should schedule a visit with your vet to discuss your concerns and investigate the issues further.

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Final Thoughts

So as you can see from our comprehensive Science Diet dog food review guide, this brand is well-trusted in the pet food arena. And you can see exactly why! This food is made by scientists based on science. So you can be sure that you can get everything and more from this kibble, or at least Fido can! It is also highly rated by pet owners, meaning that most dogs do well on this brand.

Science Diet is priced competitively considering its high-quality. And you can rest assured that you are doing everything you can to keep Fido healthy through his nutrition. In fact, you could save money on future vet bills by taking proactive care of his health today. And thankfully, Science Diet is one of the most accessible dog food products around the world. So, you shouldn’t struggle to continue feeding this product no matter where life takes you.

Ultimately, you should always choose a kibble that best meets the needs of your dog. So be sure to sit down and think about what they need from their food. Thankfully, Science Diet does a great job in catering to the needs of most dogs. We hope to have made your decision easier, and you have learned a thing (or three!) about this top-rated brand, Hill’s Science Diet.