Glossary
Dog food recall
The removal of a dog food from sale and homes because of a safety problem such as contamination, toxins or a nutrient error.
Also called: pet food recall, recalled dog food, FDA pet food recall, aflatoxin recall, voluntary recall
A dog food recall happens when a company, often with the Food and Drug Administration, pulls a product because it may harm animals. Typical reasons are Salmonella or Listeria contamination, aflatoxin or other mold toxins, foreign material, or too much or too little of a nutrient such as vitamin D. Most recalls are voluntary, announced by the company and listed on the FDA website.
Recalls cover specific lots, identified by the product name, size, lot code and best-before date printed on the bag, so check those numbers rather than assuming a whole brand is affected. Stop feeding the affected food, follow the notice's instructions and keep the bag until you are told to dispose of it.
Contact a veterinarian if your dog shows vomiting, diarrhea or lethargy. Sign up for FDA alerts, and wash hands and bowls after handling recalled food.
Last reviewed November 8, 2026