Canidae vs Blue Buffalo: Which Dog Food Is Better in 2024?

In this article, we’ll compare Canidae vs Blue Buffalo dog food.

With so many dog food brands on the market, you probably wonder if you feed your dog the best food possible.

To help you make a better decision, we compared two premium brands popular among dog parents, Canidae and Blue Buffalo.

Stay tuned to find out more about these brands and their products.

A Glance at the Winner: CANIDAE All Life Stages

Food isn’t a one-fits-all category, so learn more about the two brands and what’s more suitable for your fur baby.

Canidae versus Blue Buffalo Comparison Table

Canidae	Blue Buffalo
Only one recall	More affordable
No corn, soy, wheat	No corn, soy, wheat
Antioxidants, vitamins, minerals, omega fatty acids	Antioxidants, vitamins, minerals, omega fatty acids
All life stages recipes	More flavors

Brand History: Canidae Vs Blue Buffalo 

Taking good care of our dogs implies buying food with proven quality from trusted brands.

So, let’s see these two brands’ histories and learn more about their stories.

About Canidae 

The family-owned company was founded in 1996 by John Gordon and Scott Whipple who are passionate about making pet food with better ingredients.

They produce pet food at their plant in Texas and they take pride in using local ingredients, but also taking care of our planet.

Canidae invests in regenerative agriculture, sustainable operations, and eco-friendly packaging.

In addition, their mission is to give pets nutritious, complete meals rich in nutrients, protein, and wholesome ingredients.

Canidae dog food features 6 product lines:

• ALL LIFE STAGES
• PURE
• GOODNESS
• SUSTAIN
• PURE PETITE
• Active Goodness.

The brand is a favorite among a lot of pet parents because they use farm-grown veggies, whole grains, and premium protein sources.

About Blue Buffalo

As you can read in our Blue Buffalo vs Blue Wilderness article, this brand’s story began in 2003 when the Bishop family decided to start making food that could help dogs get healthier, nutritionally balanced meals.

They were motivated to start their own company after their dog, Blue, fought cancer and they wanted to provide dogs with better food to avoid getting sick in the first place.

Moreover, Blue Buffalo continued producing food in two manufacturing facilities in the USA and they are proud of using real meat, no poultry by-products, and hearty ingredients chosen by a team of vets, animal nutritionists, and food scientists.

There are 7 Blue Buffalo product lines for dogs, plus their new Blue Fresh wet food for dogs.

Blue Buffalo owes its success to the variety of products it offers, quality ingredients, real meat as the first ingredient, and no fillers or by-products used.

Range of Recipes Comparison: Canidae Versus Blue Buffalo Dog Food

Continue reading to find out the different products Canidae and Blue Buffalo offer and see which food is most appropriate for your munchkin.

Canidae Formulas

Canidae offers more than 70 products within its 6 product lines.

You can find dry food, wet food, and treats for your dog and every product line caters to your munchkin’s needs.

The recipes are made without corn, soy, wheat, fillers, and artificial colors.

The Canidae ALL LIFE STAGES simplifies choosing dog food because the recipes are crafted by vets and they are suitable for dogs of any breed, size, and age.

You can use these formulas from puppyhood without worrying about transferring your dog to food for adults or seniors.

Next, their Canidae PURE limited ingredient recipes with exquisite protein sources like salmon, wild boar, and bison can be an excellent option for dogs sensitive to some allergens.

In addition, the PURE product line offers grain-free formulas with hearty ingredients for dogs with food sensitivities.

The Canidae Goodness lineup features real meat, wholesome grains, and HealthPlus Solutions blend to give your pup a nutritious meal and a healthy immune and digestive system.

Furthermore, Canidae Sustain is made with responsibly sourced ingredients like wild-caught Alaskan salmon and cage-free chicken, and you nourish not only your dog but the planet, too.

The PURE PETITE product line is made for small breeds and it has single animal protein, grain-free recipes made with no more than 10 ingredients.

Plus, it’s freeze-dried to keep the rich flavor that dogs adore.

What’s more, Canidae Active Goodness, as the name suggests, it’s for active, working, and sporting dogs who need lots of protein and fat.

Last but not least, Canidae Under the Sun features single-protein sources, no grains or potatoes, farm-grown fruits and veggies, and HealthPlus Solutions blend to help your pup avoid food-related allergies and thrive.

After putting it to the test, we found that Canidae PURE All Stages Grain-free Limited Ingredient Salmon & Sweet Potato is an excellent wet recipe that provides plenty of protein and can be suitable for dogs with sensitivities. 

Blue Buffalo Formulas

Although this company has existed for a shorter time, it offers an astonishing variety of products.

Blue Buffalo features 7 selection lines with over 170 products and formulas for different breeds, sizes, and life stages.

The product lines include:

• Blue Life Protection Formula
• Blue Basics
• Blue Freedom
• Blue Natural Veterinary Diet
• Blue Wilderness
• Blue Carnivora
• Blue True Solutions

Blue Buffalo offers both dry and wet formulas that begin with real meat, healthy grains, vegetables, fruits, and LifeSource Bits. 

These bits are packed with antioxidants, vitamins, and minerals that help to enhance your pup’s immune system and overall health. 

Blue Buffalo has formulated recipes that cater specifically to small, medium, and large breed dogs, as well as puppies, adults, and seniors. 

It is worth noting that it offers weight management recipes for dogs with weight issues and in addition to veterinary diets for dogs with specific health issues, the brand also provides limited-ingredient formulas and grain-free options for dogs with sensitivities.

Among their most popular grain-free recipes is Blue Freedom, which features chicken and potatoes for adult dogs. It’s ranked well, even when we compare some premium brands like Purina Pro Plan or Diamond Naturals.

This formula can be a terrific choice for dogs prone to stomach and skin issues, as it can help keep your pal fit, strong, and energized.

Food Ingredients Blue Buffalo Vs Canidae

Blue Buffalo	Canidae
Chicken, chicken meal, turkey meal, lamb, turkey, menhaden fish meal, lamb meal, whitefish, salmon, duck, salmon meal, beef, venison, bison, beef meal, menhaden fish meal	Chicken, chicken meal, lamb, turkey meal, lamb meal, lamb, salmon, turkey, chicken liver, salmon meal, menhaden fish meal, duck meal, bison, pork meal, duck, beef, tuna
Brown rice, barley, oatmeal, peas, potatoes, egg product, alfalfa, sweet potatoes, pumpkin, carrots, tomato pomace, beet pulp, flaxseed, garlic, cranberries, blueberries, barley grass, parsley, turmeric, dried kelp	Brown rice, white rice, oatmeal, millet, rice bran, peas, flaxseed, barley, whole grain sorghum, lentils, suncured alfalfa meal, sweet potato, garbanzo beans, potatoes, dried whole egg, carrots, brewer’s yeast, tapioca
Canola oil, fish oil, chicken fat	Canola oil, chicken fat, salmon oil,
Vitamins, minerals	Vitamins, minerals
Controversial ingredients: tomato pomace	Controversial ingredients: salt

Our research indicates that both brands use quality ingredients, real meat, wholesome grains, veggies, and fruits.

Moreover, the two brands make tasty formulas without by-products, corn, wheat, or soy.

Pet parents who avoid these ingredients will appreciate Blue Buffalo and Canidae’s products.

Note that the two brands use some controversial ingredients that might be used as fillers by some food manufacturers.

All in all, these brands include premium ingredients, vitamins, minerals, and omega fatty acids to support your canine’s well-being and that’s what makes them a better option than the local store brand.

Besides, Canidae adds HealthPlus Solutions which is a blend of nutrients, antioxidants, and probiotics whereas Blue Buffalo’s recipes contain LifeSource Bits, rich in antioxidants, vitamins, and minerals to boost your pal’s health.

Meat Content 

It’s in dogs’ nature to crave meat and this is justified because they need the amino acids to maintain muscles, strong bones, and overall health.

Both Blue Buffalo and Canidae start their recipes with meat, followed by meat meals and/or fish meals which provide dogs with essential amino acids, omega fatty acids, and plenty of protein to build and maintain muscles and stay strong and fit.

The two brands take pride in using real meat in their formulas without using meat by-products.

Blue Buffalo adds the more common types of meat like chicken, turkey, and beef, but also lamb, duck, salmon, venison, bison, and menhaden fish to give your pal a tasty, nutritious meal.

Canidae’s recipes also feature chicken, turkey, pork, lamb, beef, and the more exquisite bison, duck, salmon, and tuna for a delicious meal packed with nutrients.

Keep in mind that dogs need complete protein to maximize their potential and they get it from high-quality animal proteins found in meat and fish.

Nutritional Value Comparison

We decided to compare two formulas with red meat that owe their popularity to their high protein percentage and healthy balanced nutrition.

Let’s take a look at Blue Buffalo Life Protection Formula Adult Beef & Brown Rice Recipe Dry Dog Food versus Canidae Pure Goodness Real Bison & Barley Adult Dry Recipe and find out more about the most important nutrients in our canines’ food: protein, fiber, and fat.

Bear in mind that these two formulas are a good fit for active dogs, working or sporting dogs who need a diet high in protein, fiber, and fat and if your dog isn’t very active you might need to consider a different recipe.

Besides, they are made with healthy grains that are beneficial for many dogs, but some four-legged buddies need a grain-free diet.

We recommend consulting a vet before making any decisions regarding your dog’s diet.

Protein Content

Some of the benefits of protein for dogs include building and repairing tissues, supporting immune function and helping dogs fight infections and diseases, maintaining energy levels, promoting healthy digestion, and supporting healthy skin and coat.

In addition, Blue Buffalo’s kibble has 24% crude protein to provide dogs with energy, and muscle-building nutrients, and support their overall health.

This formula contains deboned beef, chicken meal, and fish meal which means your dog gets a lot of complete protein necessary to thrive.

In comparison, Canidae’s recipe has 24.50% protein and ingredients rich in quality protein like bison, turkey meal, and pork meal.

As you can see, the two formulas are high in protein, but also in animal-based ingredients that give your furry buddy essential nutrients.

Kudos to both Blue Buffalo and Canidae for including real meat and premium protein that dogs need as an important part of their diet.

Winner: Tie

Fiber Content

Fiber helps regulate bowel movements, prevents constipation, and reduces the risk of digestive disorders such as colitis and diarrhea.

Furthermore, it supports weight management and it helps manage blood sugar levels.

This is helpful, especially for dogs prone to obesity and dogs with diabetes.

High-fiber diets have been shown to reduce the risk of several health conditions in dogs, including heart disease, cancer, and gastrointestinal disorders.

Foods like fruit, veggies, whole grains, and legumes are good sources of fiber for dogs.

The two brands include wholesome ingredients like brown rice, oatmeal, alfalfa, and barley which provide dogs with enough fiber.

Canidae’s kibble has flaxseed, millet, and whole-grain sorghum additionally, while Blue Buffalo’s formula is enriched with sweet potatoes, carrots, cranberries, and blueberries.

These ingredients are not only rich in fiber but in antioxidants, too which means they support your canine’s health.

Both formulas have 5% max crude fiber and we give them credit for including hearty ingredients that boost your dog’s immune system.

Winner: Tie

Fat Content

Fat is a source of energy and can provide dogs with the fuel they need to stay active throughout the day.

It is also essential for the growth and maintenance of healthy skin and a shiny coat.

What’s more, it supports brain and nerve function and immune function.

Some types of fat, such as omega-3 fatty acids, have anti-inflammatory properties and can help support a dog’s immune system. 

This can reduce the risk of infections, diseases, and other health problems.

High-quality sources of fat, such as fish oil, coconut oil, and flaxseed oil, are generally considered the best options for dogs.

Therefore, Blue Buffalo’s and Canidae’s formulas have plenty of fat, 14% vs 15%, respectively.

Fat Content	CANIDAE Pure	Blue Freedom
Crude Fat	15%	14%
Omega-3 Fatty Acid	1.13%	0.5%
Omega-6 Fatty Acid	2.33%	2%
Omega-6 to Omega-3 Ratio	2:1	4:1

These are similar fat contents, so let’s take a look at the individual sources of this nutrient.

Canidae’s recipe has canola oil and flaxseed, high in omega-3 fatty acids.

On the other hand, Blue Buffalo’s formula includes chicken fat, flaxseed, and fish meal which are great sources of omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids.

Blue Buffalo’s recipe has 0.5% omega-3 fatty acids and 2% omega-6 fatty acids.

But, Canidae’s kibble has 1.13% omega-3 fatty acids and 2.33% omega-6 fatty acids, plus the recipe is made with only 8 or fewer ingredients.

Although both brands use quality ingredients high in healthy fats, we side with Canidae in this round for providing dogs with a bit more omega-3 fatty acids.

Note that overweight dogs or dogs with a less active lifestyle should have a diet lower in fat to support a healthy weight.

Winner: Canidae

Flavors 

Dogs as humans have preferences when it comes to food.

No matter how good a certain wet or dry recipe is for them, if they don’t like it you are left with no choice but to find a food they will like.

So, these brands make sure they offer a variety of options in both dry and wet food categories and their recipes are crafted with real meat, healthy ingredients, vitamins, and minerals.

Although Canidae features lots of formulas with different meats, whole grains, and hearty veggies, Blue Buffalo has an amazing number of recipes that satisfy your dog’s cravings and you are bound to find a wet or dry option that your pal will devour.

However, some dogs don’t like the LifeSource Bits abundant in antioxidants and they eat around them.

No winner in this category, some dogs prefer Canidae’s recipes while others gladly eat Blue Buffalo’s.

Winner: Tie

Price

Generally speaking, Canidae’s recipes are pricier than Blue Buffalo’s, but this can depend on the type of food you are buying and certain recipes, and it can vary for different product lines. Especially when we compare both, dry and wet food lines:

Canidae Dry Dog Food	Blue Buffalo Dry Dog Food
$2.51/lb	$2.47/lb
Canidae Wet Dog Food	Blue Buffalo Wet Dog Food
$3.67/lb	$3.52/lb

Now, let’s take a look at the comparison of these two recipes in particular:

Blue Buffalo Life Protection Formula Adult Beef & Brown Rice Recipe Dry Dog Food	Canidae Pure Real Bison & Barley Adult Dry Recipe
$2.34/lb	$2.92/lb

Both brands offer good value for money because they use real meat, veggies, fruit, vitamins, minerals, and omega fatty acids. Especially when we compare both, dry and wet food lines:

If you are buying food that can help your dog maintain good health, you are going to pay more now, but you are going to save money on vet bills and medicines in the future.

We have to say we have a tie here, too.

Winner: Tie

Product Safety and Recalls

In the US, if a product fails to meet safety standards, the FDA will issue a recall, and the manufacturer will be required to retrieve or replace the affected goods.

Both brands had recalled products and here you can see the list of recalls:

Company	Recall
Canidae	2012 – potential salmonella infection
Blue Buffalo	2007 – melamine contamination
Blue Buffalo	2010 – potentially elevated vitamin D levels
Blue Buffalo	2015 – salmonella infection
Blue Buffalo	2016 – possible mold
Blue Buffalo	2017 – aluminum contamination; faulty packaging; increased levels of naturally occurring beef thyroid hormone

As you can see, Canidae had only one recall, while Blue Buffalo was recalled numerous times.

Canidae has an edge over Blue Buffalo in this category for having only one recall and prioritizing food safety.

The two companies have high safety standards and quality controls, but no one is perfect.

We recommend staying informed about current recalls to make sure your dog gets the best quality possible.

Winner: Canidae

Customer Reviews

We took Chewy’s Customer Reviews to compare these two recipes: Blue Buffalo Life Protection Formula Adult Beef & Brown Rice Recipe Dry Dog Food Vs Canidae Pure Real Bison & Barley Adult Dry Recipe.

Blue Buffalo’s formula has 4.7 stars based on more than 170 reviews.

Some of the positive reviewers say that the food is rich in nutrients, even picky dogs like it, and it helped improve dogs’ coats and skin.

However, some claim their dogs are not fans of the taste.

Canidae’s recipe has a higher rating – 5 stars but is based only on 4 reviews.

Unsurprisingly, every comment is positive, claiming dogs love the kibble and it helps with allergies.

Here s one Canidae customer’s review:

Our dog, a Mini American Shepherd, is allergic to beef, gets bad gas on chicken, doesn’t like fish flavored protein much, so finding a protein that she likes and doesn’t hurt her digestive system has been a bit challenging. We’ve also wanted to avoid grain free with all the new research happening in that area (take it for what you will), so we were really happy to find this food! We’ve gone through 2 bags so far and she still gets excited to eat it at every meal and nice solid poops all around. Please don’t stop making this food! Thank you Canidae!

Read more Canidae reviews

Overall Winner

As we mentioned in the beginning, Canidae and Blue Buffalo are one of the favorites when it comes to dog food and many pet parents opt for their products.

This is due to the selection of premium ingredients, real meat, fresh veggies, and fruit, no poultry by-products, fillers, or grains like soy, corn, and wheat that cause many problems in dogs.

This article can help you make a well-informed decision based on our research and we have to say, we had a tie in many categories, so that proves that both Blue Buffalo and Canidae can be an excellent choice for your canine.

We recommend consulting your vet for the best advice regarding your dog’s diet.

Do you want to make new comparisons? Check out our Dog Food Comparison page!