The 14 Best Puppy Food for Large Breed
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Author: Vicki Smirnova
Vicki Smirnova is a professional writer and editor who adores animals and helps readers get along well with their pets. She has been working in digital media for more than 5 years and has great experience writing content about lifestyle, including pets. Vicki specializes in dog health and nutrition, cat feeding, dog training. She is an aquarium lover and is passionate to write about fish care at home. Also, Vicki headed several websites and worked as a news editor.
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Dr. Linda Simon is a veterinary surgeon working with seven years of experience. She is a fellow of the British Veterinary Association and specializing in animal medicine. Also, she has been the Woman magazine resident vet for the past two years and writes a regular column for them, focusing on pets and their health.
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Updated on: 03/23/2022
The basis of any animal’s health is a proper diet. Ready-made puppy food contains a balance of proteins, fats, carbohydrates, vitamins, and trace elements. Global manufacturers offer everyday mixes to maintain general health and specific formulations designed for various pet diseases.
If you decide to use ready-made food for your pet, try not to be taken in by a flashy ad campaign or good-looking dog on the side of the tin. Even a review from a trusted good friend may not be worth much, with each individual requiring a specific diet that suits them.[3]
Types of Dry Large Breed Puppy Food
Correctly creating a balanced diet for your puppy at home can be quite tricky and is generally not advised by vets due to the risk of causing nutritional deficiencies. Fortunately, now there are a lot of companies that produce ready-made food. Dry food is divided into several groups:
- Standard. This everyday puppy food for those with no specific requirements.
- Prescription. This product is used as a therapeutic tool, either for the prevention of or treating a disease. As a rule, manufacturers specializing in elite class products make this food. Owners are encouraged to read and follow the instructions, as portion size and meal times may be specific.
- Specialized. This product is used to address a particular problem, e.g., obesity, allergies, etc.
By class, dry food is often divided further into three types. The difference among these classes is not only in price but also in manufacturing technology, composition, and quality standards.
- Economy. The most popular and affordable group, this type is typically made from the remains of various products. The main disadvantage is the low proportion of natural meat and other healthy ingredients. These foods can be packed with budget fillers like grains and starchy vegetables.
- Premium. This group of food contains a desirable amount of ingredients of animal origin. The rate of meat is approximately 30%. However, some companies add undesired ingredients such as chemical preservatives and flavor enhancers, bringing the product’s value down.
- Super-premium. This is the elite category of pet food. These foods are often packed with quality meat cuts and offal and fresh vegetables and even some fruit. They also tend to contain healthy additives such as probiotics and essential fatty acids. There should be little to no ‘bulk’ ingredients or fillers, and only natural preservatives should be used.
Food can also be made specifically for certain breeds; large breeds need exceptional food. Top-rated, large breed puppy food must be specially designed to support the health and fast growth. [4]
“Growth is a physiologically complex process for a puppy, and it requires sufficient energy as well as the best possible intake of nutrients. The key points of nutrition are energy and calcium, especially for large breed puppies.
For example, a Labrador retriever has a genetic tendency to grow, causing stress in their developing skeleton and leading to bone malformations. Feeding puppies food for small or medium-sized dogs can increase body weight and accelerated bone growth with improper bone remodeling. The end result may be a less dense frame that can withstand a heavier load.
The best large breed puppy food effectively controls the growth rate and provides nutrients in quantities that are better adjusted for energy consumption,”
says Dr. Nicole Fulcher, Assistant Director of the Animal Health Center in Central America.[1]
TOP 3 Foods for Large Breed Puppy
We have compiled a list of the greatest puppy food brands for large breeds based on expert assessments and reviews from real customers. Our recommendations will help you make a choice that meets your requirements and desires. There are many competitors in the pet industry, but we have selected the top products and recommend paying special attention to them.
Products | Features | Links |
Our TOP-1 Pick  | 1. Blue Buffalo Life Protection Formula Natural Puppy Large Breed Dry Dog Food
| |
Runner-Up  | 2. Wellness Complete Health Natural Dry Puppy Food
| |
Runner-Up  | 3. Taste of the Wild High Prairie Puppy Formula
|
Large Breed Puppy Food Reviews
1. Life Protection Formula Natural Puppy Large Breed Dry Dog Food
Blue Buffalo large breed recipe with chicken and brown rice is a nutritious dry food designed to ensure that large breed puppies get precisely the nutrition they need for a long, healthy and happy life. It’s certain to appeal to your pup because it’s made from a range of high-quality ingredients.
This product is produced in the United States and meets all the criteria you need for a large breed puppy, including an extensive list of ingredients full of antioxidant-rich fruits and vegetables and three different probiotic strains.
Key benefits:
- The main ingredient is deboned chicken.
- Made from whole, nutritious grains and carbohydrates.
- Packed with antioxidants and omega-3 fatty acids.
Pros
Cons
- No corn, no wheat, no soy (which some individuals may be sensitive to).
- Contains high-quality protein and L-Carnitine.
- DHA and ARA oils for healthy brain and eye development.
- A few reviewers complained that their puppies disliked the small kibble pieces, while others seemed to practically inhale the tiny pieces too quickly.
2. Wellness Natural Pet Food Complete Health Natural Dry Puppy Food
This food contains well-balanced, high-quality proteins and healthy grains to ensure a complete diet with the nutrients your puppy needs for health. The product does not contain meat by-products or artificial preservatives.
Formula includes antioxidants and useful omega-3 fatty acids support to the puppy’s immune system. The complex carbohydrates and quality fats promote vital energy for puppy growth and development. Made only from ingredients produced in the United States. This food does not contain GMOs.
Key benefits:
- This formula includes fiber, carotenoids vitamins A and C as well as potassium.
- Includes spinach, which contains magnesium, manganese, beta-carotene, and lutein.
- Omega fatty acids for healthy skin and coat.
Pros
Cons
- A natural source of high-quality protein.
- Includes DHA.
- Made in the USA.
- Some anecdotal reports from owners of inconsistency from one bag to the next.
3. Taste of the Wild High Prairie Puppy Formula
Roast bison and roast venison combine perfectly in this grain-free choice, providing the perfect amount of easy-to-digest food for your growing pup. The unique taste of grilled meat, vegetables, legumes, and small-sized fruits makes it easy for puppies to enjoy the nutrients they need for good overall health.
With guaranteed DHA levels and a perfectly balanced diet, this formula is excellent for pregnant or nursing dogs, as well as for other adult dogs. This product doesn’t contain any colors, flavors, or artificial preservatives.
Key benefits:
- Made in the USA.
- Added vitamins & minerals.
Pros
Cons
- Real meat is #1 ingredient.
- Tailored for the growing puppy.
- Food made with scientifically advanced food safety protocols.
- Some owners reported that puppies with sensitive tummies encountered trouble. However, introducing the diet slowly over time may prevent this from happening.
4. Blue Buffalo Wilderness High Protein Grain Free Natural Puppy Dry Dog Food
Blue Buffalo Wilderness contains a mix of potatoes, carrots, and antioxidants derived from cranberries, blueberries, and blackberries, all of which are designed to support and develop your puppy’s immune system. The mix contains real chicken meat as the main ingredient and does not contain corn, wheat or soy.
The added vitamins and minerals help support growth, and the combination of calcium and phosphorus ensures healthy skeletal development for a large breed puppy.
Key benefits:
- Good choice for puppies with digestive issues.
- This formula is a blend of antioxidants, vitamins, and minerals.
- Ingredients to help promote healthy development, including DHA and ARA.
Pros
Cons
- Real chicken to help encourage strong muscle growth.
- Stools tend to be smaller and more solid than when pups eat foods with fillers.
- Contains vitamins and minerals.
- Kibble pieces may prove a little tricky for younger puppies to chew.
5. IAMS PROACTIVE HEALTH Smart Puppy Large Breed Dry Puppy Food with Real Chicken
The formula is designed for large breed puppies and contributes to improving their overall health and developing their immune and musculoskeletal system. The presence of natural fish oil and abundant proteins in the ingredients plays a vital role in your puppy’s optimal development.
Promotes strong muscles with quality protein. Specially formulated large breed puppy food meets the specific wellness and nutritional needs of large breed puppies.
Key benefits:
- Veterinarians recommend IAMS.
- Quality protein helps to build strong muscles and supports health.
- Created specially for large breed puppies.
Pros
Cons
- Real, farm-raised chicken is the 1st ingredient.
- With Omega-3 and Omega-6 fatty acids.
- Protein (min.) 26%.
- Some owners report that dogs can develop gas and/or diarrhea when switching, though this may be helped by transitioning the puppy to the food slowly over 1-2 weeks.
6. Merrick Grain Free Wet Puppy Food Puppy Plate Beef Recipe
Made from real Texas beef, this delicious product also includes peas, carrots, sweet potatoes, and apples — healthy ingredients which provide optimal nutrition.
This palatable food contains DHA to support healthy brain development and vitamins and minerals for a healthy diet. Made in small batches to ensure safety and quality control.
Key benefits:
- Made in the USA.
- Includes DHA to support your growing puppy’s brain development.
Pros
Cons
- Crafted in Hereford.
- Deboned Texas beef is the #1 ingredient.
- 28% protein level.
- Some reviews noted that the beef chunks can be a little big if your pup is still small.
7. Wellness CORE Grain-Free Turkey Canned Dog Food
An extra tasty offering, what puppy wouldn’t love some turkey stuffed with chicken? This Wellness CORE formula contains a high concentration of high-quality animal protein, some grains, and a proprietary blend of plant and food additives.
This is a unique recipe that supports your puppy’s health and nutrition according to its body’s needs. Rich in greens and botanical for preventive health benefits. The formula can be used for everyday feeding.
Key benefits:
- It is a blend of ingredients that promote healthy skin and coat.
- No meat by-products.
- No artificial colors, flavors or preservatives.
Pros
Cons
- Gluten-free for the few that are gluten intolerant.
- It doesn’t contain corn, wheat, soy, or pea, for those with specific allergies.
- It contains 5 protein sources.
- Some dogs’ had a hard time digesting this product, according to their owners.
8. Instinct Original Puppy Grain-Free Real Chicken Recipe Wet Canned Dog Food
It is enriched with protein and has a unique taste and does not contain grain. This high-protein wet puppy food is made in the United States and is specifically designed for puppies. The ingredients include real chicken meat, chicken broth, beef liver, salmon, carrots, peas, and other nourishing ingredients.
This product is free from ingredients that some pups may react negatively to, such as carrageenan, corn, wheat, potatoes, soy, and artificial colors. Supports healthy immunity with essential antioxidants.
Key benefits:
- Grain-free.
- Packed with fruits and veggies.
- Contains natural DHA.
Pros
Cons
- Made in the USA.
- Real meat is the #1 ingredient.
- Finished with a satisfying loaf texture.
- Some owners mentioned stomach upset in their reviews.
9. Purina Pro Plan Focus Large Breed Chicken & Rice Formula Dry Puppy Food
This food is carefully designed for large breed puppies and provides the necessary nutrients for their growth. Chicken is the main ingredient that provides your puppy with the protein it needs for muscle and bone growth.
Adding DHA from Omega-rich fish oils helps support your puppy’s brain and vision development. This item contains live probiotics that help keep the digestive system running smoothly and bolster their immune system.
Key benefits:
- Packed with probiotics that support immune health.
- Plenty of DHA from Omega-rich fish oil.
- Optimal ingredients for growth and development.
Pros
Cons
- Designed specifically for larger puppies.
- Real meat is the #1 ingredient.
- This product supports both digestive and immune health.
- More expensive than most other brands.
10. Nutro Natural Choice Lamb & Brown Rice Recipe Large Breed Puppy Dry Dog Food
Nutro Wholesome Essentials is a large puppy food with a high proportion of lamb and rice. The option consists of meat such as lamb and high-quality additives like glucosamine and chondroitin.
This item contains plenty of calcium, which helps encourage optimal bone development in your pup. It also contains Omega-3 fatty acids, such as DHA, to support your large breed puppy’s growth and development. Crafted with essential antioxidants, such as vitamin E, for a healthy immune system.
Key benefits:
- Lamb is the #1 ingredient.
- Made with plenty of calcium to build strong bones.
- Supports a healthy immune system.
Pros
Cons
- NO corn, wheat or soy protein, which may cause digestive issues for some puppies.
- Made with non-GMO.
- Costs more than the average market price.
11. Nutro Ultra Large Breed Puppy Dry Dog Food
NUTRO ULTRA is designed to meet the nutritional needs of large breed puppies. This high-quality formula is made from the natural ingredients to provide balanced nutrition for puppies and support their healthy growth and brain development. This product is made with quality ingredients sourced from farmers and suppliers’ trusted network.
Your puppy will be happy to enjoy the unforgettable taste of this high-quality kibble. Made with proteins derived from chicken, lamb, and salmon and a blend of 12 vibrant superfoods and other nutrients.
Key benefits:
- No artificial flavors.
- High-quality ingredients.
- No chicken by-product.
Pros
Cons
- Created in USA kitchens.
- It contains coconut, chia, and kale.
- Blend of 12 vibrant, useful nutrients.
- More expensive than most other brands.
12. Hill’s Science Diet Large Breed Chicken Meal & Oats Recipe Dry Puppy Food
It is designed especially for large breed puppies. The formula contains an optimal level of calcium, which helps support healthy bone formation, which is one of the most important considerations for developing large breed puppies.
This product contains DHA from fish oil, and high-quality protein. Balanced minerals for strong bones & teeth. The specially designed recipe helps your pet maintain lean muscle. [2]
Key benefits:
- It contains a balanced set of minerals.
- Controlled bone growth.
- Rich in fatty acids, including DHA.
Pros
Cons
- Made in the USA.
- Made with natural ingredients.
- Promotes healthy bones and teeth in large puppies.
- Some owners mentioned stomach upset in their dogs, though this is purely anecdotal.
13. Eukanuba Puppy Large Breed Dry Dog Food
Eukanuba Large Breed Puppy Food is designed for puppies aged from 1 to 24 months. This product for puppies does not contain artificial preservatives, flavors, colors, gluten, or fillers. It contains precisely balanced levels of protein and calcium. Eukanuba provides complete and balanced nutrition.
Key benefits:
- Ingredients help maintain joint and cartilage health.
- With DHA.
- Supports muscle growth.
Pros
Cons
- Designed especially for puppies 1-24 months of age.
- It contains natural fish oil for optimal brain development.
- Created in USA kitchens.
- Most critical reviews revolved around the high cost.
14. Blue Buffalo Carnivora Optimal Prey Nutrition High Protein Wet Dog Food
This choice for large breed puppies has 95% animal ingredients. Proteins are derived from chicken, turkey, fish, and duck. This high-protein product contains nutrient-rich organs and cartilage, and it is fortified with vitamins and minerals to give your puppy a complete and balanced diet based on a recipe containing 0% grain, peas, or potatoes.
Including dried and raw chicken, turkey, saltwater fish and duck, organ meat and cartilage.
Key benefits:
- 95% animal ingredients.
- A complete blend of vitamins and minerals.
- Including dried and raw chicken.
Pros
Cons
- Grain-free.
- It contains 0% peas or potatoes, which some may be allergic to.
- It provides a complete and balanced diet.
- Some reviews mentioned that dogs refused the food.
Large Puppy Food Buying Guide
Choosing the right food based on the size of the breed is very important. Physiologically, dogs of large and giant breeds are quite different from the rest. They are more prone to musculoskeletal problems such as OCD and hip dysplasia, so they need food with a higher content of nutrients that support the musculoskeletal system.
It is important to prevent obesity in large breeds, as their joints are already under a lot of stress. Be sure to follow the recommended feeding guidelines and to adjust the amount fed based on their Body Condition Score.
READ MORE: Puppy 101: How to Care for your New Puppy
READ MORE: When to Get Puppy Shots?
Pay attention to the food’s content of calcium, phosphorus, zinc, and manganese, as well as other minerals. They must be present in specific proportions for large breeds, ensuring they grow at the correct rate and their joints are supported.
It is important to remember that large dogs have higher loads on their musculoskeletal system, so the food should contain fish oils, chondroitin sulfate and glucosamine, to great support their joints.
In general, you should look for the following characteristics in the feed for large breed puppies:
- Whole protein. Protein should make up a considerable part of their daily calorie intake. Accordingly, the most suitable food for large breed puppies will include whole protein meat, such as chicken, beef, pork or salmon.
- Free of colorants, flavorings, and other preservatives. Manufacturers often add artificial colors and flavors to their food to enhance palatability, but these types of additives may disrupt digestion and cause issues such as diarrhea in some individuals.
- Probiotics. Probiotics are ‘good bacteria; that contribute to the normal functioning of the intestines as well as the body as a whole. You should look for foods that contain both prebiotics and a variety of probiotics.
- Omega-3 fatty acids. Fish oil supplementation can help reduce inflammation, improve coat and skin condition, and support brain function in large breed pups. Therefore, it is better to buy those type that includes plenty of Essential Fatty Acids (EFAs). Flaxseed, green-lipped mussel, salmon, and fish meal are among the greatest sources of Omega-3 fatty acids.
- Antioxidants. Antioxidants support the immune system of large breed puppies and maintain their overall health. Antioxidants are found in fruits and vegetables, such as blueberries, cranberries, pumpkins, spinach, cabbage, carrots, etc.[5]
READ MORE: When Should Puppy Eat Adult Dog Food?
FAQ
ᐈ How do I know if my puppy is a large breed?
To determine whether your pet is a large breed puppy, you should look at its pedigree. You can predict its adult size, average weight, and height once you know what most of your puppy’s ancestry is. If unsure, ask your local vet or vet nurse to examine them.
ᐈ How much food should a large breed puppy eat?
It is impossible to name a certain amount of food for all large breed dogs accurately because each dry food contains a different amount of calories per cup. It is great to start feeding the dog the recommended amount of food indicated on the package. Then, adjust the amount of feed so that your puppy reaches the ideal weight. It is best to also consult a veterinarian along the way. Remember that the guidelines assume that nothing else (such as treats or chews) is fed, so always factor in any given extras.
ᐈ How long to feed a puppy large breed food?
You should begin feeding a puppy with adult food only when the puppy reaches a certain age. But because of the wide variety of breeds, different dogs reach adulthood at different rates. For large breeds, this can be anything from 18 months to 2 and a half years old.
ᐈ When to start feeding a puppy large breed adult food?
You can generally begin feeding your dog adult food when the pet is 18 to 24 months old. Pups of large breeds take longer to reach adulthood, and many will still be growing at the age of 2. Consulting your vet is the right decision if unsure when your pup has finished growing and is classed as an ‘adult’.
Article Sources:
- “Dr. Nicole Fulcher.” Animal Medical Center of Mid-America, amcma.org/about/staff/dr.-fulcher.
- “Hill’s Pet Nutrition — Dog & Cat Food Transforming Lives.” Hill’s, hillspet.com/.
- “Dog Food.” Wikipedia, 3 Mar. 2021, en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Dog_food.
- Arendt, M. “Diet Adaptation in Dog Reflects Spread of Prehistoric Agriculture.” PubMed Central (PMC), 1 Nov. 2016, ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5061917/.
- “Antioxidants and Their Use in Dog Food.” PetMD, 10 June 2016, petmd.com/dog/nutrition/evr_dg_antioxidants_and_their_use_in_dog_food.
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