If you shop at Costco, you’ve probably noticed the large bags of Kirkland Signature dog food stacked in the pet aisle. It’s affordable, well-reviewed, and many pet owners say their dogs love it.
But one question keeps coming up: Who actually makes Kirkland dog food?
Since Kirkland is Costco’s private label, many people assume the company makes its own pet food, but that’s not the full story. In this article, we’ll uncover who manufactures Kirkland dog food, how it compares to name brands, what ingredients it uses, and whether it’s a good choice for your dog.
What Is Kirkland Dog Food?
Kirkland Signature is Costco’s private-label brand, encompassing a wide range of products from olive oil to batteries—and pet food as well. The Kirkland Signature Dog Food line features several varieties, including the Adult Dog Chicken & Rice Formula, Puppy Formula, Healthy Weight Formula, Lamb & Rice Formula, and the Nature’s Domain grain-free recipes. Each of these formulas is crafted to provide premium-quality ingredients at an affordable price, which is one of the main reasons Costco shoppers remain loyal to the Kirkland brand.
Who Actually Makes Kirkland Dog Food?
The manufacturer behind Kirkland dog food is Diamond Pet Foods. Diamond Pet Foods is a long-established American company that also produces food for other well-known brands such as Taste of the Wild, 4Health, and Professional+.
Where It’s Made
Diamond operates several facilities across the United States:
- Meta, Missouri
- Lathrop, California
- Gaston, South Carolina
Kirkland dog food is produced in these same plants under the same quality and safety standards applied to Diamond’s own labels. In short, Costco owns the Kirkland Signature brand, but Diamond Pet Foods manufactures the product.
Why Costco Chooses Diamond Pet Foods
Costco partners with Diamond Pet Foods for several key reasons. Diamond has decades of experience in pet nutrition, dating back to 1970, and is known for maintaining high safety and quality-control standards. The company also offers a consistent supply chain, reliable ingredient sourcing, and an established reputation within the pet food industry.
This partnership enables Costco to concentrate on pricing and distribution, while Diamond manages formulation, ingredient testing, and manufacturing. As a result, Costco is able to provide high-quality dog food at a more affordable price than many competing name brands.
Ingredients Used in Kirkland Dog Food
A major reason Kirkland is so popular is its ingredient quality. Let’s look at the Kirkland Signature Adult Dog Chicken & Rice Formula as an example. First five ingredients:
- Chicken
- Chicken Meal
- Whole Grain Brown Rice
- Cracked Pearled Barley
- Chicken Fat (preserved with mixed tocopherols, a source of Vitamin E)
These provide balanced sources of protein, carbohydrates, and fat. Other ingredients include:
- Dried egg product
- Beet pulp (fiber source)
- Fish meal (omega-3 fatty acids)
- Probiotics for digestive health
- Vitamins and minerals for balanced nutrition
Nature’s Domain Line
Kirkland’s Nature’s Domain range, also made by Diamond, targets pet owners who prefer grain-free diets or more natural ingredients. These formulas feature salmon, turkey, or beef as primary proteins and use sweet potatoes, peas, and probiotics instead of grains.
How Kirkland Compares to Premium Dog Food Brands
Many pet owners compare Kirkland with brands like Blue Buffalo, Purina Pro Plan, or Hill’s Science Diet.
| Feature | Kirkland Signature | Premium Brands |
|---|---|---|
| Main Protein | Real chicken, lamb, or salmon | Real meat |
| Grain-Free Options | Yes (Nature’s Domain) | Yes |
| Added Probiotics | Yes | Often |
| AAFCO Certified | Yes | Yes |
| Average Price per lb | Lower | Higher |
Kirkland provides similar nutritional value to premium brands at a significantly lower cost, making it a smart choice for budget-conscious pet owners who don’t want to compromise on quality.
Is Kirkland Dog Food Safe?
Safety is one of the most important considerations for any pet owner when choosing a dog food brand. Kirkland dog food, manufactured by Diamond Pet Foods in the United States, is produced under strict quality control standards that include ingredient testing, sanitation procedures, and compliance with AAFCO nutritional guidelines.
Although Diamond has experienced recalls in the past, the company has since strengthened its safety measures and transparency. As of 2025, there have been no recent recalls of Kirkland Signature dog food, and it continues to be regarded as a reliable and well-regulated option for most dogs.
Expert Opinions
Veterinarians and nutrition experts typically describe Kirkland dog food as a well-balanced mid-range option. It may not market itself as “holistic,” but it meets or exceeds standard nutritional requirements.
Experts often highlight that Diamond Pet Foods’ long experience and Costco’s strict quality expectations produce a trustworthy product line suitable for most dogs.
Benefits of Kirkland Dog Food
- Affordable quality comparable to premium brands
- High-quality protein sources such as chicken, lamb, or salmon
- Added probiotics for digestive health
- Formulas for all life stages, including puppies and seniors
- Made in the USA under regulated conditions
- Grain-free and healthy-weight options available
Common Questions About Kirkland Dog Food
Is Kirkland dog food made in the USA?
Yes. All Kirkland Signature dog food products are produced in Diamond Pet Foods’ U.S. facilities.
Does Kirkland use animal by-products?
No. The recipes use whole meats and meals, not animal by-products.
Is Kirkland dog food grain-free?
The standard line contains grains, but the Nature’s Domain range is grain-free.
Is Kirkland suitable for dogs with allergies?
For dogs with sensitivities, the salmon or turkey grain-free recipes are often better tolerated.
Can I buy it without a Costco membership?
Yes. Some online retailers sell Kirkland dog food, though prices may be slightly higher than at Costco stores.
Choosing the Right Kirkland Formula
To select the best formula for your pet, consider:
- Age: Puppy, adult, or senior formula
- Weight goals: Standard or healthy-weight recipe
- Food sensitivities: Choose grain-free if needed
- Flavor preference: Chicken, lamb, beef, or salmon
Environmental Responsibility
Costco and Diamond Pet Foods both place a strong emphasis on sustainability throughout their supply chains. Their efforts include responsibly sourcing ingredients, implementing waste-reduction programs, and using recyclable packaging materials.
This ongoing commitment to environmentally conscious practices helps minimize the overall ecological impact of producing Kirkland dog food, aligning with the growing consumer demand for sustainable and ethical pet products.
Is Kirkland Dog Food Worth It?
For dog owners who want a balance of quality nutrition, safety, and affordability, Kirkland Signature dog food is a strong contender. It’s produced by a trusted American manufacturer, uses high-quality ingredients, and is backed by Costco’s reputation for value.
While it may not carry the prestige of boutique brands, it provides reliable nutrition that meets most dogs’ needs. The combination of good quality and reasonable pricing makes Kirkland an appealing choice for everyday feeding.
