When it comes to feeding your furry friend, quality, safety, and nutrition are top priorities. Among the numerous options available, Kirkland Signature Dog Food has earned a loyal following for its balanced formula and budget-friendly pricing. But many pet owners still wonder: Who makes Kirkland Dog Food? This question is important because knowing the manufacturer can give you confidence in the quality control, sourcing, and safety standards behind the product. In this article, we’ll explore the brand behind Kirkland dog food, how it’s made, its ingredients, safety record, and whether it’s truly a good choice for your pet.
Who Is the Manufacturer of Kirkland Dog Food?
Kirkland Dog Food is manufactured by Diamond Pet Foods, a company owned by Schell and Kampeter, Inc. Diamond is one of the largest pet food producers in the United States and has been around since 1970. While the Kirkland brand is sold exclusively at Costco, the production is handled by Diamond in their state-of-the-art facilities located in the U.S.
Diamond also manufactures a number of other well-known pet food brands, including Taste of the Wild, NutraGold, and Diamond Naturals. Their partnership with Costco allows for the production of premium-quality dog food at a lower price point under the Kirkland label. This is a classic example of a private label arrangement, where the retailer (Costco) owns the brand, but the actual production is outsourced to a specialized manufacturer.
Also read: The Best Dog Food for Small Breeds in 2025
Where Is Kirkland Dog Food Made?
Kirkland Dog Food is proudly made in the United States. Diamond Pet Foods operates multiple facilities across the country, including locations in:
- Meta, Missouri
- Gaston, South Carolina
- Lathrop, California
- Ripon, California
- Dumas, Arkansas
Each of these manufacturing facilities follows strict safety and quality standards. These facilities are regularly inspected, and Diamond employs in-house quality control laboratories to test ingredients and finished products. By manufacturing in the U.S., Kirkland Dog Food is able to ensure better oversight and minimize the risk of contamination that can occur in overseas production.
Is Kirkland Dog Food High Quality?
Yes, Kirkland Dog Food is widely regarded as a high-quality option, especially when you consider its price. It features real meat as the first ingredient, with no corn, wheat, or soy in many of its recipes. Most Kirkland formulas include:
- Real animal protein (like chicken, lamb, or salmon)
- Whole grains (brown rice, barley)
- Healthy fats (chicken fat, flaxseed)
- Vegetables and fruits (sweet potatoes, peas, blueberries)
- Probiotics and omega fatty acids
Kirkland Signature also offers a “Nature’s Domain” grain-free line, which includes additional features like novel proteins and a broader range of vegetables.
Veterinarians and pet owners alike appreciate the nutritional balance Kirkland provides. The formulas are suitable for all life stages, including puppies, adults, and senior dogs. You’re getting the kind of ingredient list you’d expect from premium brands, but at a significantly lower cost.
Has Kirkland Dog Food Ever Been Recalled?
Yes, Kirkland Dog Food has had a recall—but it’s important to understand the context. In 2012, Diamond Pet Foods voluntarily recalled several brands (including Kirkland) due to potential Salmonella contamination at one of their plants. The issue affected multiple pet food brands made at the South Carolina facility.
Since then, Diamond has taken significant steps to improve safety protocols, including:
- Enhancing facility sanitation
- Increasing product testing
- Hiring third-party inspectors
There haven’t been any recalls involving Kirkland Dog Food in over a decade, which is a good sign of their ongoing commitment to quality control. Nonetheless, responsible pet parents should always stay informed by checking the FDA pet food recall website or subscribing to recall alerts.
Also read: What is the best dog food for sensitive stomachs and digestion?
Is Kirkland Dog Food Good for All Dog Breeds?
Kirkland Dog Food is designed to be suitable for a wide range of dog breeds and life stages. There are specialized formulas for:
- Puppies: With added DHA for brain and vision development
- Adult dogs: With optimal protein-to-fat ratios
- Senior dogs: With lower calories and joint support
- Large breeds: With glucosamine and chondroitin for joint health
- Small breeds: With smaller kibble size and higher calorie content
If your dog has specific health concerns—like allergies, food sensitivities, or digestive issues—you may want to consult your veterinarian before choosing a Kirkland product. Some dogs thrive on grain-free diets, while others do better with grains. Kirkland offers both types, so you have options depending on your dog’s needs.
How Does Kirkland Compare to Other Brands?
In blind comparisons, Kirkland Dog Food often ranks alongside more expensive brands like Blue Buffalo, Nutro, and Wellness. The main difference? Price.
While brands like Blue Buffalo or Hill’s Science Diet can cost upwards of $3 per pound, Kirkland usually costs around $1 per pound or less when purchased in bulk at Costco. Despite the lower price, it contains many of the same ingredients and nutritional benefits.
Here’s a quick comparison:
| Feature | Kirkland Signature | Blue Buffalo | Purina Pro Plan |
|---|---|---|---|
| Real meat first? | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| Grain-free options? | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| Added supplements? | Yes (Omega 3, probiotics) | Yes | Yes |
| Price (per lb approx.) | ~$1.00 | ~$2.50 | ~$2.00 |
| Made in the USA? | Yes | Yes | Yes |
Overall, Kirkland gives pet owners great value for money without sacrificing quality.
Conclusion
The answer is a strong yes—especially if you’re looking for a reliable, nutritious, and affordable dog food. Kirkland Dog Food is manufactured by Diamond Pet Foods, a reputable and experienced company that produces many other trusted pet brands. It is made in U.S. facilities, using quality ingredients that meet the dietary needs of dogs at every stage of life.
While Kirkland Dog Food did have a recall over a decade ago, it has since built a solid reputation for safety, reliability, and excellent nutrition. From real meats to beneficial supplements like probiotics and omega fatty acids, the brand offers everything your dog needs to stay healthy and happy.
Plus, with Costco’s strict quality standards and Diamond’s expertise, you can rest assured that what goes into your dog’s bowl is not only affordable but also safe and nourishing. If you’re a Costco member, it’s definitely worth considering Kirkland as your go-to dog food brand.
