Dog Chow: A 100-Year History
Throughout our 100-year history, Dog Chow has believed one thing above all: Dogs deserve our 100—every day, in every bowl. As we celebrate our 100th Anniversary, we renew our commitment to keeping 100% complete, high-quality nutrition accessible to all.
100 Years of Innovation
1916
The inspiration for the Dog Chow name dates back to World War I, when Purina founder William H. Danforth observes American soldiers fondly calling their meals “chow.”
1926
The creation of Dog Chow helps rescue dogs from a lifetime of table scraps, giving them access to a 100% nutritionally complete dog food crafted just for them.
1933–1935
Dog Chow fuels the dog sled team on Admiral Byrd’s arduous two-year Antarctic expedition—demonstrating what well-fed dogs and devotion can accomplish.
1942
Dog Chow continues to provide American dogs a steady diet amidst severe food rationing and uncertainty during World War II.
1954
Pioneering a process to craft “kibble,” Dog Chow unveils the first-ever dry dog food—bringing meaty, dog-loved taste to a shelf-stable, no-mess form.
1957
As the first pet food sold in grocery stores nationwide, the accessibility of Dog Chow helps make dogs a more practical choice as household pets. Dog ownership soars.
1960s–1990s
Dog Chow introduces 100% science-based recipes that are specifically formulated to meet the needs of growing puppies, small-breed dogs, overweight dogs, senior dogs, and more.
2000s
A 14-year study proves that feeding Dog Chow to dogs’ ideal body condition over their lifetime can extend dogs’ healthy years by 15% (adding around 1.8 more healthy years).
2026
Today, Dog Chow continues its legacy of giving our families our “100” through a steadfast commitment to quality, proven nutrition, and very happy dogs.
