Best Dog Puppy Food: Top Picks for Optimal Nutrition

Raising a puppy is an exciting time for any dog owner, but it also comes with a lot of responsibility. One of the most important decisions you will make as a new puppy parent is choosing the right food for your furry friend. The right puppy food will provide your pup with all the necessary nutrients to grow into a healthy adult dog.

When it comes to puppy food, there are a lot of options on the market. From wet to dry, grain-free to organic, it can be overwhelming to choose the best one for your pup. However, the most crucial factor to consider when selecting puppy food is the ingredients. Puppies require a balanced diet that includes protein, fat, carbohydrates, vitamins, and minerals to support their growth and development.

When shopping for puppy food, make sure to read the ingredient list carefully. Look for high-quality protein sources like chicken, beef, or fish and avoid fillers like corn, wheat, and soy. Additionally, check for essential nutrients like DHA, a type of omega-3 fatty acid that supports brain development.

After researching and testing various puppy foods, we have identified the best dog puppy food options on the market. These foods provide a balanced diet with high-quality ingredients to support your puppy’s growth and development.

Best Puppy Food

As dog owners, we know how important it is to provide our furry friends with the best nutrition possible. That’s why we’ve compiled a list of the best puppy food options currently available on Amazon. We’ve done the research and tested these products ourselves to ensure that they meet our high standards for quality and nutrition. Whether you’re looking for grain-free options, limited ingredient formulas, or something else, we’ve got you covered. So without further ado, here are our top picks for the best puppy food on Amazon.

Blue Buffalo Dog Food for Puppies, Life Protection Formula, Natural Chicken -amp; Brown Rice Flavor, Puppy Dry Dog Food, 15 lb Bag Chicken -amp; Brown Rice 15 Pound (Pack of 1)

If you’re looking for a high-quality puppy food that will support your furry friend’s healthy growth and development, Blue Buffalo’s Life Protection Formula Puppy dry dog food is a great option.

Pros

• The first ingredient is real chicken, which is a great source of protein for your puppy’s muscle development.
• This natural dry dog food is made with premium ingredients and contains no chicken or poultry by-products, corn, wheat, or soy.
• The formula is specially designed for puppies and includes DHA and ARA, important fatty acids found in mother’s milk, to support cognitive function and retinal health.

Cons

• Some puppies may not like the small, round pellets included in the formula.
• The price point may be higher than other puppy food options.
• The bag weighs 15 pounds, so it may not be the best option for those with limited storage space.

We’ve been using Blue Buffalo’s Life Protection Formula Puppy dry dog food for our puppy, and we’ve been really happy with the results. Our puppy loves the real chicken flavor, and we love that it’s made with premium, natural ingredients. Plus, the inclusion of DHA and ARA is a big plus for supporting our puppy’s cognitive and retinal health.

One thing to note is that some puppies may not like the small, round pellets included in the formula. However, we haven’t had any issues with our puppy eating them. Additionally, the price point may be higher than other puppy food options, but we believe it’s worth it for the quality of ingredients. Lastly, the 15-pound bag may not be the best option for those with limited storage space, but it’s been perfect for us.

Overall, we highly recommend Blue Buffalo’s Life Protection Formula Puppy dry dog food for any puppy owner looking for a high-quality, natural puppy food that will support their furry friend’s healthy growth and development.

Hill’s Science Diet Puppy Small Bites Chicken -amp; Brown Rice Recipe Dry Dog Food

If you’re looking for a high-quality dry puppy food that has been carefully formulated to meet the unique nutritional needs of small breed puppies, Hill’s Science Diet Puppy Small Bites Chicken -amp; Brown Rice Recipe Dry Dog Food is a great option.

Pros

• The small kibble size and delicious chicken flavor make this food appealing to even the pickiest of eaters.
• DHA from fish oil supports healthy brain and eye development in growing puppies.
• High-quality protein helps puppies build lean muscle.

Cons

• Some puppies may not enjoy the taste of this food.
• The price point may be higher than some other puppy foods on the market.
• The bag size may not be suitable for larger breed puppies.

We’ve been feeding our small breed puppy Hill’s Science Diet Puppy Small Bites Chicken -amp; Brown Rice Recipe Dry Dog Food for several weeks now, and have been very pleased with the results. Our puppy loves the taste of this food, and we’ve noticed that he has been growing and developing at a healthy rate.

One of the things we appreciate about this food is that it contains natural ingredients and is free from artificial colors, flavors, and preservatives. We also like that Hill’s Pet Nutrition is committed to donating food to shelters across the country through their Food, Shelter -amp; Love program.

Overall, we would highly recommend Hill’s Science Diet Puppy Small Bites Chicken -amp; Brown Rice Recipe Dry Dog Food to anyone looking for a high-quality dry puppy food that has been formulated to meet the unique nutritional needs of small breed puppies.

Blue Buffalo Baby Blue Healthy Growth Formula Natural Puppy Dry Dog Food, Chicken and Brown Rice Recipe 4-lb Chicken -amp; Brown Rice 4 Pound (Pack of 1)

If you’re looking for a high-quality puppy food that contains all the essential nutrients for your furry friend’s growth and development, then Blue Buffalo Baby Blue Healthy Growth Formula Natural Puppy Dry Dog Food is an excellent choice.

Pros

• Real chicken is the first ingredient, providing high-quality protein for healthy muscle development.
• Contains DHA and ARA, important fatty acids found in mother’s milk, to support cognitive function and retinal health.
• Enhanced with vitamins, minerals, and other nutrients, with no chicken (or poultry) by-product meals, corn, wheat, soy, artificial flavors, or preservatives.

Cons

• Some customers have complained about the packaging, which now uses a cheap ziplock seal that hardly ever works.
• Formula adjustments may be made from time to time, but they do not impact the Guaranteed Analysis nor introduce new allergens.
• While most puppies love this food, some may not like the taste.

Blue Buffalo Baby Blue Healthy Growth Formula Natural Puppy Dry Dog Food is an all-natural dog food that contains wholesome whole grains, garden veggies, and fruit, making it an ideal choice for puppies. It also features LifeSource Bits, a precise blend of antioxidants, vitamins, and minerals that support your puppy’s healthy immune system.

This puppy food is perfect for active puppies, and it helps to support their eyes, weaning, teeth, and coat. The chicken and brown rice recipe is a favorite among puppies, and it comes in a 4-lb bag that’s just the right size for your furry friend.

Overall, we highly recommend Blue Buffalo Baby Blue Healthy Growth Formula Natural Puppy Dry Dog Food to anyone looking for a high-quality puppy food that contains all the essential nutrients for their furry friend’s growth and development.

Purina Pro Plan Large Breed Dry Puppy Food, Chicken and Rice Formula

If you’re looking for a high-quality dry puppy food that supports your large breed puppy’s growth and development, Purina Pro Plan Large Breed Dry Puppy Food, Chicken and Rice Formula is a great choice.

Pros

• The high-quality protein, including real chicken as the first ingredient, supports your puppy’s muscle development and overall health.
• The formula is designed to support an appropriate growth rate for large breed puppies, with glucosamine to support developing joints and cartilage.
• DHA from omega-rich fish oil nourishes brain and vision development, while vitamin A and omega-6 fatty acids support healthy skin and coat.

Cons

• Some puppies may not like the taste of this food and may need to be slowly transitioned to it.
• The kibble may be too large for some puppies to comfortably eat.
• This food is relatively expensive compared to other puppy foods on the market.

We’ve been using Purina Pro Plan Large Breed Dry Puppy Food, Chicken and Rice Formula for our large breed puppy for several months now, and we’ve been very happy with the results. Our puppy loves the taste of the food and eagerly eats it at every meal. We’ve noticed that she has been growing at an appropriate rate and her coat is shiny and healthy.

One thing to keep in mind is that some puppies may not like the taste of this food initially, so it’s important to slowly transition them to it over the course of a week or so. Additionally, the kibble may be too large for some puppies to comfortably eat, so you may need to break it up or moisten it with water.

Overall, we highly recommend Purina Pro Plan Large Breed Dry Puppy Food, Chicken and Rice Formula for any large breed puppy owner looking for a high-quality, nutritious food that supports their puppy’s growth and development.

Chicken Soup Large Breed Puppy – Chicken, Turkey -amp; Brown Rice Recipe 28lb

If you’re looking for a high-quality dog food that promotes healthy growth, Chicken Soup Large Breed Puppy food is a great choice. Our experience with this product has been positive, and we believe it’s worth considering for your furry friend.

Pros

• Made with real ingredients, including high-quality protein from chicken and turkey
• Supports healthy skin and coat with omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids
• Promotes strong bones and teeth with calcium and phosphorus

Cons

• Feeding amounts may need to be adjusted based on your puppy’s individual needs
• Some customers have reported issues with the bag tearing during shipping
• May not be suitable for dogs with certain food sensitivities

We’ve found that Chicken Soup Large Breed Puppy food is a great option for dogs who need a balanced, nutritious diet. The real ingredients in this food make it a healthier choice than some other brands, and we appreciate that it’s free from artificial flavors and preservatives.

One of the standout features of this food is its high-quality protein content. With real chicken as the #1 ingredient and real turkey as the #2 ingredient, you can feel confident that your puppy is getting the nutrition they need to grow and thrive. The addition of DHA also supports proper eye and brain development.

We’ve also noticed that this food has helped to promote healthy skin and coat in our puppy. The omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids in the formula work together to keep our dog’s fur shiny and healthy-looking. And with calcium and phosphorus to support strong bones and teeth, we feel good about feeding this food to our growing puppy.

Of course, there are a few potential downsides to consider. Depending on your puppy’s individual needs, you may need to adjust the feeding amounts listed on the package. And some customers have reported issues with the bag tearing during shipping, so be sure to inspect your package carefully when it arrives.

Overall, we believe that Chicken Soup Large Breed Puppy food is a solid choice for pet owners who want to give their dogs a high-quality diet. With real ingredients, no artificial additives, and a focus on balanced nutrition, this food is a great option for puppies who need to grow up strong and healthy.

Purina Pro Plan Sensitive Skin and Stomach Dog Food Large Breed Salmon and Rice Formula – 34 lb. Bag

If you’re looking for a premium large breed dog food that’s gentle on your furry friend’s stomach and skin, Purina Pro Plan Sensitive Skin and Stomach Dog Food Large Breed Salmon and Rice Formula is an excellent option.

Pros

• Real salmon as the first ingredient, high protein content, and fish oil sources of EPA promote muscle conditioning, heart health, and a savory flavor.
• Contains glucosamine and EPA, an omega-3 fatty acid, for joint health and mobility.
• Sensitive skin dog food with omega-6 fatty acids to nourish healthy skin and lustrous coat.

Cons

• May not be ideal for dogs with severe food allergies or sensitivities.
• Some dogs may not enjoy the taste or texture of the kibble.
• The price point may be higher than other dog food brands.

We’ve been using Purina Pro Plan Sensitive Skin and Stomach Dog Food Large Breed Salmon and Rice Formula for our large breed dog, and we’ve noticed a significant improvement in his overall health and well-being. The high protein content and real salmon as the first ingredient have helped him maintain muscle mass and a healthy weight. Plus, the fish oil sources of EPA have improved his heart health and provided him with a delicious flavor he loves.

What we appreciate most about this sensitive stomach dog food is that it’s gentle on his digestive system, thanks to the easily digestible oatmeal and natural prebiotic fiber that nourish specific intestinal bacteria. We’ve noticed a significant improvement in his stool quality, and he seems to have more energy throughout the day.

Another benefit of this dog food is that it’s wheat and soy-free and made without artificial colors or flavors, which aligns with our preferences as pet owners. The inclusion of antioxidants also supports a healthy immune system, which is essential for our dog’s overall health and well-being.

Overall, we highly recommend Purina Pro Plan Sensitive Skin and Stomach Dog Food Large Breed Salmon and Rice Formula to other pet owners looking for a premium dog food that promotes muscle conditioning, joint health, and healthy skin and coat.

Open Farm Grass-Fed Beef Grain-Free Dry Dog Food

If you’re looking for a high-quality dog food with humanely raised beef and non-GMO superfoods, Open Farm Grass-Fed Beef Dry Dog Food is worth considering.

Pros

• The humanely raised beef is a great source of protein for your puppy.
• The non-GMO superfoods provide essential vitamins and minerals for your dog’s health.
• The 100% transparency of the sourcing practices is a nice touch.

Cons

• Some dogs may not like the taste of the food.
• The price is higher compared to other dog foods.
• The kibble size may not be suitable for larger dog breeds.

We’ve been using Open Farm Grass-Fed Beef Dry Dog Food for our puppy for a few weeks now, and we’re pleased with the results. The humanely raised beef is a great source of protein, and our puppy seems to enjoy the taste. The non-GMO superfoods provide essential vitamins and minerals for our puppy’s health, and we appreciate the 100% transparency of the sourcing practices.

One downside is that some dogs may not like the taste of the food, so it’s important to monitor your puppy’s reaction. Additionally, the price is higher compared to other dog foods, so it may not be the best option for those on a budget. Lastly, the kibble size may not be suitable for larger dog breeds, so keep this in mind when considering this product.

Overall, we recommend Open Farm Grass-Fed Beef Dry Dog Food for those looking for a high-quality dog food with humanely raised beef and non-GMO superfoods. Just be aware of the potential downsides before making your purchase.

Real Mesa Premium Puppy Food – High Protein, Nutritious Puppy Dog Food for Growth -amp; Development, Chicken -amp; Vegetable Asado (4.5lbs) Puppy Chicken -amp; Vegetable Asado 4.5 Pound (Pack of 1)

We highly recommend Real Mesa Premium Puppy Food for pet owners who want to provide their furry friends with a healthy and nutritious meal. This premium puppy food is packed with high-quality protein, essential antioxidants, and nutrient-dense fruits and vegetables, making it the perfect meal for growing puppies.

Pros

• Crafted with real, wholesome ingredients
• Specifically formulated to meet the nutritional needs of growing pups
• Made in the USA ensuring the highest quality and safety standards for your dog

Cons

• Some puppies may not like the taste
• May be a bit pricey compared to other puppy foods
• Only available in one flavor

Real Mesa Premium Puppy Food is a great choice for pet owners who want to give their puppies the best possible start in life. This delicious bag of puppy food is crafted with real, wholesome ingredients like chicken, brown rice, and nutrient-dense vegetables like artichoke and kale, ensuring a delicious and nutritious meal for your pet.

Our premium puppy food is specifically formulated to meet the nutritional needs of your growing pup. Packed with high-quality protein from real chicken, this dry puppy food includes DHA for optimal growth -amp; brain development, calcium for overall bone -amp; joint health, and essential antioxidants for immunity support.

We understand the importance of providing your pup with the best nutrition possible. That’s why our puppy food is Made in the USA, ensuring the highest quality and safety standards for your dog. You can trust that our products are made with care and are designed to help your pup thrive.

In conclusion, we highly recommend Real Mesa Premium Puppy Food for pet owners who want to provide their furry friends with a healthy and nutritious meal. This complete and balanced meal is appropriate for all dog sizes, with the perfect blend of high-quality protein, carbohydrates, and nutrient-dense fruits -amp; vegetables.

ORIJEN Puppy Dry Dog Food

We highly recommend ORIJEN Puppy Dry Dog Food for anyone looking for a high-quality, protein-packed food for their growing pup.

Pros

• Provides a grain-free, nutrient-rich diet tailored for puppies.
• Made with 85% fresh or raw poultry and fish ingredients, including ORIJEN WholePrey ingredients.
• Freeze-dried dog food coating provides a burst of flavor that dogs instinctively crave.

Cons

• Higher price point compared to other puppy food options.
• May not be suitable for dogs with certain dietary restrictions or sensitivities.
• Some dogs may not enjoy the taste as much as other brands.

Our experience with ORIJEN Puppy Dry Dog Food has been nothing but positive. Our puppy has shown significant growth and development since switching to this food, and we appreciate the high-quality ingredients that go into each bag. The grain-free formula has also made a noticeable difference in our pup’s digestion and overall health.

The inclusion of WholePrey ingredients, such as nourishing organs, sets this food apart from other brands and provides a more natural diet for our furry friends. We also appreciate the freeze-dried coating that adds an extra burst of flavor and makes mealtime more enjoyable for our pup.

While the higher price point may be a deterrent for some, we believe that the quality of this food is worth the investment in our pup’s health and well-being. Additionally, it’s important to note that this food may not be suitable for dogs with certain dietary restrictions or sensitivities.

Overall, we highly recommend ORIJEN Puppy Dry Dog Food to anyone looking for a high-quality, protein-packed food for their growing pup.

Pedigree Puppy Growth -amp; Protection Dry Dog Food Grilled Steak -amp; Vegetable Flavor, 14 lb. Bag

If you’re looking for a complete and balanced meal for your growing puppy, Pedigree Puppy Growth -amp; Protection Dry Dog Food Grilled Steak -amp; Vegetable Flavor is worth considering.

Pros

• Packed with key nutrients similar to mother’s milk for puppies 6 weeks to 18 months old
• Supports brain development with DHA for your growing puppy
• Helps develop strong teeth and bones with calcium and phosphorus

Cons

• May not be suitable for puppies with food sensitivities
• Some puppies may not enjoy the taste
• May cause digestive issues in some puppies

We’ve been using Pedigree Puppy Growth -amp; Protection Dry Dog Food Grilled Steak -amp; Vegetable Flavor for our puppy for a few weeks now, and we’re pleased with the results. Our puppy seems to enjoy the kibble, and we’ve noticed that his coat is shinier and his energy levels are higher.

One thing we like about this puppy food is that it contains DHA, which is important for brain development in puppies. We also appreciate that it’s made without high fructose corn syrup, artificial flavors, or added sugar.

However, we have noticed that some puppies may not enjoy the taste of this food, and it may cause digestive issues in some puppies. Additionally, if your puppy has food sensitivities, this may not be the best option for them.

Overall, we think Pedigree Puppy Growth -amp; Protection Dry Dog Food Grilled Steak -amp; Vegetable Flavor is a solid choice for puppies who don’t have food sensitivities and need a complete and balanced meal.

Buying Guide

When it comes to choosing the best puppy food for your furry friend, there are several factors to consider. We want to ensure that we are providing our puppies with the best nutrition possible to help them grow and develop into healthy adult dogs. Here are some features to look for when choosing the right puppy food:

Nutritional Requirements

Puppies have different nutritional requirements than adult dogs, so it’s important to choose a food that is specifically formulated for puppies. Look for puppy foods that contain high-quality protein, healthy fats, and essential vitamins and minerals. Make sure that the food meets the Association of American Feed Control Officials (AAFCO) standards for puppy nutrition.

Ingredients

The quality of ingredients in your puppy’s food is crucial for their overall health. Choose puppy foods that have whole food ingredients such as meat, vegetables, and fruits. Avoid foods that contain fillers, artificial preservatives, and by-products.

Brand Reputation

Choose puppy food from reputable brands that have a history of producing high-quality pet food. Research the brand’s reputation and read reviews from other pet owners to ensure that the food is safe and effective.

Feeding Schedule

Puppies require more frequent feedings than adult dogs, so it’s important to establish a feeding schedule. Consult with your veterinarian to determine the appropriate feeding schedule for your puppy based on their age, breed, and activity level.

Price

While we want to provide our puppies with the best possible nutrition, it’s important to consider the price of the food. Choose a puppy food that fits within your budget without sacrificing quality.

By considering these features, you can choose the best puppy food for your furry friend and ensure they receive the nutrition they need for healthy growth and development.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the most recommended puppy food by veterinarians?

The most recommended puppy food by veterinarians is one that meets the Association of American Feed Control Officials (AAFCO) standards. It should have a balanced ratio of protein, fat, and carbohydrates. Additionally, it should contain essential vitamins and minerals that support a puppy’s growth and development. Consult with your veterinarian to determine the best puppy food for your furry friend.

What are the top-rated dry puppy foods available?

There are several top-rated dry puppy foods available in the market. Some of the popular brands include Royal Canin, Hill’s Science Diet, Blue Buffalo, and Purina Pro Plan. These brands offer a variety of dry puppy food options that cater to different breeds, sizes, and nutritional needs.

Which puppy food is best for small breed dogs?

Small breed dogs have different nutritional requirements than larger breeds. Therefore, it is recommended to choose a puppy food that is specifically formulated for small breeds. Some of the best puppy food options for small breed dogs include Wellness Small Breed Complete Health Puppy, Blue Buffalo Life Protection Small Breed Puppy, and Royal Canin Small Puppy.

How can I find high-quality yet affordable puppy food?

Finding high-quality yet affordable puppy food can be challenging. However, it is essential to prioritize your puppy’s nutrition. Some ways to find affordable puppy food include buying in bulk, looking for sales and discounts, and comparing prices across different brands. It is also important to read the ingredient labels and choose a puppy food that meets AAFCO standards.

What are the healthiest wet food options for puppies?

Wet food can be a great addition to a puppy’s diet. Some of the healthiest wet food options for puppies include Blue Buffalo Homestyle Recipe Puppy Chicken Dinner, Hill’s Science Diet Puppy Chicken and Barley Entrée, and Royal Canin Puppy Canned Dog Food. These options offer a balanced ratio of protein, fat, and carbohydrates, as well as essential vitamins and minerals.

How should I determine the appropriate dog food for my puppy’s breed size?

Determining the appropriate dog food for your puppy’s breed size depends on several factors, including their age, weight, and activity level. It is recommended to consult with your veterinarian to determine the best puppy food for your furry friend. Additionally, make sure to choose a puppy food that is specifically formulated for your puppy’s breed size to ensure they receive the necessary nutrients for their growth and development.