Evanger’s Whole Sardines Named a Best Canned Dog Food by Whole Dog Journal
Sardines Are Having a Moment—But Evanger’s Has Been Serving Them for More Than 20 Years
We are swimming in some very exciting news: Evanger’s Hand-Packed Whole Sardines have been named the Best Limited-Ingredient Canned Dog Food by Whole Dog Journal!
As part of its annual Best Canned Dog Foods review, Whole Dog Journal selected top foods across several important categories. Evanger’s Whole Sardines earned the publication’s coveted “WDJ Favorite” designation for its limited-ingredient recipe, single animal-protein source, lack of gums, and suitability for dogs of all life stages.
For our family, this recognition is especially meaningful because this is not a new recipe created to follow a trend. Evanger’s has been hand-packing whole sardines for more than 20 years.
Long before tinned fish became social-media famous, appeared on trendy restaurant menus, inspired fashion collections, and earned its own “sardine girl summer,” we were carefully placing whole sardines into cans for dogs to enjoy.
Apparently, the rest of the world has finally caught up with Evanger’s.
Why Whole Sardines?
Evanger’s Whole Uncut Sardines are exactly what the name promises: real, recognizable sardines packed by hand. Open the can and you can actually see the whole fish—skin, soft bones and all—along with carrots and peas in a natural broth.
There are no mystery meat blends and no gums holding everything together. Sardines are the recipe’s only animal-protein source, making this food a delicious option for pet parents looking to introduce a different protein into their dog’s rotation. The recipe is complete and balanced for dogs of all life stages, from puppies to seniors.
Sardines may be small, but they bring plenty to the bowl:
Naturally occurring omega-3s: Sardines contain the omega-3 fatty acids EPA and DHA. These fatty acids are commonly associated with supporting healthy skin, a shiny coat and a normal inflammatory response.
Real animal protein: The first ingredient is simply sardines—not a fish flavor, fish meal or combination of unnamed seafood ingredients.
Soft, edible bones: The bones soften during the canning process and provide naturally occurring nutrients and an irresistible texture.
A lower-mercury fish: Sardines are included on the FDA’s “Best Choices” list of fish that are lower in mercury.
An exciting alternative protein: Sardines offer something different for dogs who have eaten the same traditional proteins meal after meal.
And, of course, there is the flavor. Dogs tend to have very strong opinions about sardines—and those opinions are usually expressed through an exceptionally clean bowl.
Hand-Packed Means Something at Evanger’s
Evanger’s has always believed pet food should look like real food.
That philosophy is especially visible in our Hand-Packed line. Our sardines are not ground into an indistinguishable pâté. They are carefully placed into each can so pet parents can recognize exactly what they are feeding.
It takes more time and care, but that is the point.
For more than 90 years, our family has been committed to creating innovative canned foods in our family-owned cannery. We are proud to offer recipes that celebrate real ingredients instead of hiding them—and our Whole Sardines may be one of the best examples of that philosophy.
Sometimes the Best “New” Trend Is a Classic
Today, sardines are officially cool.
They are appearing on restaurant boards, charcuterie spreads, social feeds and even clothing and accessories. Tinned fish has experienced a major cultural comeback, with the humble sardine leading much of the excitement.
We love seeing this little fish finally receive the attention it deserves. But while sardines may be the newest obsession for people, Evanger’s dogs have known the secret for decades.
Whole Dog Journal’s recognition confirms what our loyal customers—and their very enthusiastic dogs—have been telling us all along: sometimes simple, recognizable ingredients really are best.
Thank you to Whole Dog Journal for naming Evanger’s Hand-Packed Whole Sardines the Best Limited-Ingredient Canned Dog Food. We could not be prouder to see a longtime Evanger’s favorite receive this honor.
Ready to make a splash at mealtime?
Discover Evanger’s Hand-Packed Whole Uncut Sardines and let your dog experience the award-winning recipe that has been ahead of the trend for more than 20 years.
Whole fish. Packed by hand. Loved for decades.

Read the full article by Whole Dog Journal Here: The Best Canned Dog Foods – Whole Dog Journal