Royal Canin vs Farmina vs Drools: Which Dog Food Should You Buy in Pune?

We sell all three every single day. Here's our honest comparison — ingredients, price, and what John feeds his own four dogs.

This is the question we answer most often at The Pet Padosi. Royal Canin, Farmina and Drools are three of our top-selling dog foods — but they serve very different purposes, budgets and dogs. Here's our completely honest breakdown after five years of selling all three in Pune.

Royal Canin — The Vet's Choice

Royal Canin is the gold standard when it comes to breed and life-stage specific nutrition. Their breed-specific ranges (Labrador, German Shepherd, Cocker Spaniel, Chihuahua etc.) are genuinely formulated for that breed's physical characteristics and health tendencies. Baba, our GSD, was on Royal Canin German Shepherd for years — the joint support and digestive formulation made a visible difference.

It's not cheap, and it's not grain-free. But it is consistent, safe and vet-trusted. If your dog has a diagnosed condition, Royal Canin's Veterinary range (which we stock) is often the most accessible therapeutic option available in India.

Best for: Dogs with breed-specific needs, senior dogs, dogs on vet-recommended diets, puppies of large breeds.

Farmina — The Premium Natural Choice

Farmina is an Italian brand and genuinely one of the best complete foods available in India right now. Their N&D (Natural & Delicious) range is grain-free, high in animal protein and made with human-grade ingredients. The ingredient list is clean — you won't find vague "meat derivatives" or excessive fillers.

Coco, our English Retriever, has been on Farmina N&D Pumpkin for three years. Her coat condition, energy and stool quality are noticeably better than on other foods. For dogs with sensitive stomachs or skin issues — both common in Pune due to the heat and humidity — Farmina is often our first recommendation.

Best for: Dogs with skin or coat issues, dogs with grain sensitivity, owners who want clean-label premium nutrition.

Drools — The Smart Everyday Choice

Drools is an Indian brand and significantly more affordable than the others, but it's not a budget compromise. For healthy adult dogs without specific dietary needs, Drools Focus Adult is a genuinely solid daily food. It's widely available, consistently manufactured, and dogs eat it willingly.

Pixi, our Chihuahua, does perfectly fine on Drools Focus Small Breed. For small breeds without health complications, it's our honest everyday recommendation.

Best for: Budget-conscious pet parents, healthy adult dogs without special needs, small to medium breeds.