Here are well-regarded premium dry dog‑food brands available in Australia (mix of Australian‑made and international). I’ve listed what they’re known for so you can match a brand to your dog’s needs — life stage, allergies, activity level, and budget vary the “best” choice.

Recommended premium dry brands (short notes)

• Orijen — very high meat inclusion, biologically appropriate recipes; consistently rated as a super‑premium kibble. (extraservice.net)
• Acana — from the same maker as Orijen, meat‑forward formulas with regional ingredients; slightly more affordable than Orijen. (myrainbowpets.com.au)
• Ziwi Peak (air‑dried) — air‑dried, raw‑inspired, very high meat/organs content; premium price, often used as a topper or primary diet for sensitive dogs. (myrainbowpets.com.au)
• K9 Natural / Black Hawk / Taste of the Wild — quality protein sources and well‑rated by reviewers; Taste of the Wild is a strong all‑rounder at a lower premium price point. (myrainbowpets.com.au)
• Ivory Coat — Australian brand known for natural, meat‑forward and grain‑free options; widely recommended locally. (myrainbowpets.com.au)
• Petzyo — Australian direct‑to‑consumer brand positioned as a premium, affordable dry option with subscription delivery. (petfoodreviews.com.au)
• FirstMate / Eureka / Prime100 (and other Australian premium makers) — Australian‑made premium formulas (some air‑dried or novel proteins) that focus on local ingredients and sustainability. (gentledogtrainers.com.au)
• Hill’s Science Diet / Royal Canin (veterinary/research‑backed lines) — not always classed “boutique premium,” but highly recommended by vets for life‑stage or clinical needs (prescription diets available). (lifemydog.co.uk)

Notes and practical tips

• “Premium” can mean higher meat content, minimal fillers, single/novel proteins, or specialised processing (air‑dried/freeze‑dried). Decide whether you prioritise meat percentage, ingredient sourcing, or vet‑formulated clinical nutrition. (myrainbowpets.com.au)
• If your dog has allergies or sensitivities, consider single‑protein or novel‑protein lines (kangaroo, venison, goat) and brands that offer hypoallergenic formulas (e.g., Prime100, Meals for Mutts). (vetslovepets.com.au)
• For veterinary conditions (weight, renal, skin/coat, GI), follow vet recommendations — Hill’s and Royal Canin have clinically formulated diets. (lifemydog.co.uk)
• Transition slowly over 7–10 days when switching foods; monitor stool, appetite, coat and energy. If you notice problems, stop the new food and consult your veterinarian.
• Price varies widely: air‑dried and very high meat formulas (Ziwi, Orijen) are at the top end; Taste of the Wild, Petzyo and some local premium brands are mid‑range; veterinary prescription and clinic lines vary by product.

If you’d like, I can: narrow this to brands sold in your local area or at specific retailers in Australia, suggest formulas for a particular life stage (puppy/adult/senior), or compare ingredient panels for 2–3 specific products you’re considering.