Best Food for Pregnant and Nursing Dogs: Top Picks for Optimal Nutrition

Pregnancy and nursing are critical stages in a dog’s life, and proper nutrition is essential for the health of both the mother and her puppies. Feeding your pregnant and nursing dog with the right food can help ensure that she gets the necessary nutrients to support the growth and development of her puppies. However, with so many dog food options available in the market, choosing the best one can be a daunting task.

When it comes to the best food for pregnant and nursing dogs, there are specific factors you should consider. For instance, the food should have a high protein content to support muscle development and growth, calcium for bone development, and DHA to support brain and eye development. Additionally, the food should be easy to digest, free from artificial preservatives, and have a balanced nutritional profile.

To help you make an informed decision, we spent several hours researching and testing various dog food brands to identify the best ones for pregnant and nursing dogs. In this article, we share our findings and recommendations to help you choose the best food for your furry friend.

Best Food for Pregnant and Nursing Dogs

As responsible dog owners, we know that our furry friends require a well-balanced diet to maintain their health and happiness. This is especially important for pregnant and nursing dogs, as their nutritional needs are significantly higher during this time. With so many options available on the market, it can be overwhelming to choose the best food for your dog. That’s why we’ve researched and compiled a list of the best food for pregnant and nursing dogs, so you can rest assured that your dog is getting the nutrition they need to thrive.

Lexelium Nursing Supplement and Vitamins for Nursing Dogs and Cats

If you’re looking for a high-quality nursing supplement for your pregnant or nursing dog, the Lexelium Nursing Supplement and Vitamins for Nursing Dogs and Cats is a great choice.

Pros

• Increases lactation
• Promotes newborn muscle and skeletal development
• Provides energy replenishing formula

Cons

• Has a strong fishy smell
• Expensive compared to other options
• Some dogs may not like the taste

We’ve used this supplement with our nursing dog and have seen great results. The increased lactation and improved quality of milk has helped our dog and her puppies stay healthy and strong. We also noticed that the supplement helped with our puppies’ muscle and skeletal development.

The energy replenishing formula is also a great feature, as it helps our nursing dog recover quickly and maintain her energy levels. The supplement is made from high-quality, human-grade ingredients that are locally sourced in the USA.

However, the supplement does have a strong fishy smell that some dogs may not like. It’s also more expensive compared to other options on the market. Overall, if you’re looking for a premium nursing supplement for your dog, the Lexelium Nursing Supplement and Vitamins for Nursing Dogs and Cats is a great choice.

Breeder’s Edge Oxy Momma Nursing -amp; Recovery Supplement

We highly recommend the Breeder’s Edge Oxy Momma Nursing -amp; Recovery Supplement for small dogs and cats. This supplement is specially formulated to provide multiple benefits to lactating moms and help them recover from birthing.

Pros

• Helps stimulate and enhance milk production for feeding babies
• Aligns reproductive hormones and prepares the female for her next gestation
• Contains herbal ingredients that help with reproductive tract recovery

Cons

• Dogs may get tired of taking the supplement
• Some dogs may not like the taste
• May not work for all dogs

We have firsthand experience with the Breeder’s Edge Oxy Momma Nursing -amp; Recovery Supplement and can confidently say that it is a great product for new moms. The herbal ingredients in this supplement help stimulate milk production and enhance the quality of milk, ensuring that the babies get all the nutrients they need. We also noticed that it helped our dog recover from birthing and align her reproductive hormones.

However, we did notice that our dog got tired of taking the supplement after a while. We had to add peanut butter to the soft chews to make her eat them. Some dogs may also not like the taste of the herbal flavor. Additionally, this supplement may not work for all dogs, so it’s important to consult with a veterinarian before use.

Overall, the Breeder’s Edge Oxy Momma Nursing -amp; Recovery Supplement is a great product that can help new moms take care of their babies and recover from birthing. If you’re looking for a supplement that can help enhance milk production and align reproductive hormones, we highly recommend this product.

Royal Canin Size Health Nutrition Small Starter Mother -amp; Babydog Dry Dog Food

If you’re looking for a high-quality dog food that meets the nutritional needs of your pregnant and nursing dogs, then Royal Canin Size Health Nutrition Small Starter Mother -amp; Babydog Dry Dog Food is a great option to consider.

Pros

• Tailor-made for the mother’s high energy needs at the end of gestation and during lactation for the nursing puppies’ optimal growth up to 2 months old
• Nutritional response helps to facilitate the transition from mother’s milk to solid food
• Clinically proven antioxidants, including vitamins E and C, help support the healthy development of puppies’ immune systems

Cons

• Expensive compared to other dog foods in the market
• Not suitable for adult dogs or dogs with certain dietary restrictions
• Some dogs may not like the taste of this dog food

Our experience with Royal Canin Size Health Nutrition Small Starter Mother -amp; Babydog Dry Dog Food has been nothing but positive. We noticed that our pregnant and nursing dogs had increased energy levels and their puppies had optimal growth during the lactation period. The nutritional response of this dog food helped to make the transition from mother’s milk to solid food much easier for the puppies.

One of the best things about this dog food is its combination of prebiotics and highly digestible proteins that promote a healthy balance of intestinal bacteria for digestive health and optimal stool quality. We also appreciated the rehydratable kibble feature, which made it easy to turn this dry puppy dog food into a porridge-like consistency for both mom and her weaning puppies.

While this dog food is more expensive than other dog foods in the market, we believe that the quality of the ingredients and the nutritional value make it worth the investment. Overall, we highly recommend Royal Canin Size Health Nutrition Small Starter Mother -amp; Babydog Dry Dog Food for pregnant and nursing dogs.

Nutro So Simple Meal Complement Wet Dog Food Chicken and Chicken -amp; Duck Recipes in Bone Broth Variety Pack, 2 oz. Tubs, Pack of 8 Variety Pack 2 Ounce (Pack of 8)

If you’re looking for a simple yet delicious meal complement for your pregnant or nursing dog, Nutro So Simple Wet Dog Meal Complement is a great option to consider.

Pros

• Made with only 7 natural ingredients, including real chicken as the #1 ingredient and real duck.
• Mix this dog food in with your dog’s favorite Nutro Dry Dog Food for added flavor and ultimate tail wags.
• Crafted with real, recognizable ingredients and without grains, chicken by-product meal, corn, wheat or soy, and no artificial flavors*, colors* or preservatives*.

Cons

• Expensive compared to other wet dog food options.
• May not be suitable for dogs with specific dietary needs or restrictions.
• Some customers mentioned that the product clumps together weirdly.

We’ve tried Nutro So Simple Wet Dog Meal Complement for our pregnant dog, and we were impressed with the quality of the ingredients. The fact that it’s made with only 7 natural ingredients, including real chicken and duck, gives us peace of mind knowing that our dog is getting the nutrients she needs without any unnecessary fillers.

We also like that we can mix this with our dog’s favorite Nutro Dry Dog Food for added flavor. Our dog seems to love the taste, and we noticed that she finishes her meals faster when we add this meal complement to her food.

One downside is that this product is more expensive compared to other wet dog food options. It may not be suitable for dog owners who are on a tight budget. Additionally, some customers mentioned that the product clumps together weirdly, which may be a concern for some.

Overall, we recommend Nutro So Simple Wet Dog Meal Complement for pregnant and nursing dogs who need a simple yet delicious meal complement. It’s made with quality ingredients, and our dog seems to love the taste.

Health Extension Little Bites Chicken -amp; Brown Rice Recipe

We highly recommend Health Extension Little Bites Chicken -amp; Brown Rice Recipe for small breed dogs, especially those who are pregnant or nursing.

Pros

• Made with high-quality, organic chicken and highly digestible brown rice
• Contains natural probiotics for proper digestion and flaxseed and pure coconut oil for supple skin and a shiny coat
• Grain and gluten-free, making it perfect for dogs with sensitivities

Cons

• A bit more expensive than some other dog food options
• The kibble size may be too small for larger breeds
• Some dogs may not enjoy the taste as much as other brands

Our experience with Health Extension Little Bites Chicken -amp; Brown Rice Recipe has been nothing but positive. Our small breed dog, who is currently pregnant, loves the taste and has had no issues with digestion. We appreciate that the ingredients are high-quality and organic, and that the formula contains natural probiotics for proper digestion. Additionally, we have noticed an improvement in our dog’s skin and coat since switching to this food.

One potential downside is that this dog food is a bit more expensive than some other options on the market. Additionally, the kibble size may be too small for larger breeds, so it may not be the best choice for all dogs. Finally, while our dog loves the taste, some dogs may not enjoy it as much as other brands.

Overall, we highly recommend Health Extension Little Bites Chicken -amp; Brown Rice Recipe for small breed dogs, especially those who are pregnant or nursing. It is a high-quality, nutritious option that will help keep your furry friend healthy and happy.

Halo Holistic Plant-Based Recipe With Superfoods, Complete Digestive Health, Vegan Dry Dog Food Bag, Adult Formula, 10-lb Bag Plant-Based with Superfoods 10 Pound (Pack of 1)

We highly recommend the Halo Holistic Vegan Plant-Based Recipe with Superfoods for pregnant and nursing dogs. This highly nutritious, sustainable dry dog food is formulated with high-quality ingredients to boost your dog’s health.

Pros

• This vegan dog food is made with no animal ingredients, making it a great option for pet owners who prefer plant-based diets for their furry friends.
• The holistic blend of high-quality ingredients, including vitamin and mineral-rich superfoods like blueberries, cranberries, carrots, and apples, provides complete and balanced nutrition for your dog.
• Prebiotics, probiotics, and postbiotics provide complete digestive health and immune support for your dog.

Cons

• This dog food may not be suitable for dogs with certain dietary restrictions or allergies.
• Some dogs may not enjoy the taste of this plant-based dog food.
• This dog food is more expensive than other dog food options on the market.

We have tried the Halo Holistic Vegan Plant-Based Recipe with Superfoods on our own dogs and have seen significant improvements in their overall health and wellbeing. Our dogs have had no digestive issues while consuming this dog food, and their coats have become shinier and healthier.

The high-quality ingredients used in this dog food are evident in the taste and texture of the kibble. While some dogs may not enjoy the taste of this plant-based dog food, we have found that most dogs enjoy it and look forward to mealtime.

Overall, we believe that the Halo Holistic Vegan Plant-Based Recipe with Superfoods is an excellent option for pregnant and nursing dogs who require complete and balanced nutrition. While it may be more expensive than other dog food options on the market, the high-quality ingredients and complete digestive health support make it well worth the investment.

“I and Love and You” Naked Essentials Dry Dog Food, Lamb and Bison Recipe, Grain Free, Real Meat, No Fillers, 11lb Bag Lamb Bison 11 Pound (Pack of 1)

If you’re looking for a high-quality dog food that’s perfect for pregnant and nursing dogs, then the “I and Love and You” Naked Essentials Dry Dog Food is definitely worth considering. This recipe is 100% free of grains and void of all fillers like rice, corn, and white potatoes. It’s packed with delicious, crunchy bites of pasture-raised lamb and bison, with the added oomph of omegas and pre -amp; probiotics!

Pros

• The meat is the #1 ingredient, and this recipe is packed with 30% protein to boost energy and maintain lean muscle mass compared to BLUE Buffalo Life Protection—Adult.
• Pre -amp; Probiotics for easy digestion, ensuring your pet’s gut is in tiptop shape, and their #2s go smoothly.
• Non-GMO Protein -amp; Produce, ensuring that GMOs aren’t invited to the party.

Cons

• Some dogs may not like the taste or texture.
• It’s slightly more expensive than other brands.
• The kibble is relatively small, which could be an issue for larger dogs.

We’ve been using this dog food for a few months now, and we’ve noticed a significant improvement in our dog’s coat and overall health. He seems to love the taste and texture, and we love that it’s made from high-quality ingredients that we can trust. The fact that it’s grain-free and packed with protein is also a huge plus, especially for pregnant and nursing dogs.

Overall, we highly recommend the “I and Love and You” Naked Essentials Dry Dog Food to anyone looking for a high-quality, nutritious dog food that’s perfect for pregnant and nursing dogs.

Open Farm Ancient Grains Dry Dog Food

If you’re looking for a high-quality dog food for your pregnant or nursing dog, Open Farm Ancient Grains Dry Dog Food is a great choice. We highly recommend this product because it is made with humanely raised meat and wholesome ancient grains, and it is free from artificial flavors and preservatives.

Pros

• The meat used in this recipe is humanely raised in audited high-welfare family farms without growth hormones.
• The recipe is loaded with meaty animal protein, whole ancient grains, and fresh locally sourced produce.
• The formula features a pure mix of gluten-free grains such as steel-cut oat, brown rice, quinoa, and chia seeds, which are designed for nutrient-rich wellness.

Cons

• The smell of the food can be a bit weird.
• Some dogs may not like the taste of the food.
• It is more expensive than some other dog food brands.

We have been using Open Farm Ancient Grains Dry Dog Food for a few months now, and we are very happy with the results. Our dog loves the taste of the food, and we love that it is made with high-quality ingredients. The fact that the meat used in the recipe is humanely raised is very important to us, and we appreciate that Open Farm is committed to transparent sourcing practices.

One thing to keep in mind is that the food can be a bit expensive, especially if you have a large dog or multiple dogs. However, we believe that the high-quality ingredients and humane sourcing practices are worth the extra cost.

Overall, we highly recommend Open Farm Ancient Grains Dry Dog Food for pregnant and nursing dogs. It is a great choice for anyone who wants to feed their dog a high-quality, nutritious, and delicious food.

Victor Super Premium Dog Food – Purpose – Nutra Pro

If you’re looking for a high-quality dog food that provides sustained energy for sporting dogs and dogs with high physical demands, Victor Super Premium Dog Food – Purpose – Nutra Pro is a great option. Our experience with this product has been positive overall, but there are a few things to keep in mind.

Pros

• The inclusion of premium-quality chicken, fish, and beef meals provides high levels of quality protein, making it a great choice for growing puppies and pregnant or nursing females.
• This nutrient-dense, high-energy dog food is fortified with vitamins, minerals, essential fatty acids, protein, and amino acids, promoting healthy immune and digestive systems, as well as a healthy skin and coat.
• Victor Super Premium Dog Food – Purpose – Nutra Pro is a gluten-free, high-protein dog food with a nutrient-dense, multi-meat formula, making it an ideal choice for active dogs with high physical demands.

Cons

• The high protein content may not be suitable for all dogs, so it’s important to consult with your veterinarian before making any dietary changes.
• While the gluten-free grain sources are a plus, some dogs may still have sensitivities to certain ingredients.
• The price point is higher than some other dog food options, so it may not be the best choice for those on a tight budget.

In our experience, Victor Super Premium Dog Food – Purpose – Nutra Pro has been a great choice for our active dogs, providing them with the sustained energy they need to keep up with their demanding lifestyles. The inclusion of premium-quality protein sources and essential nutrients has helped to keep them healthy and thriving, and we appreciate the fact that the product is made in the USA with carefully selected ingredients.

If you’re looking for a high-quality dog food that provides sustained energy for your active dog, we recommend giving Victor Super Premium Dog Food – Purpose – Nutra Pro a try.

Nutrition Strength Vitamins for Nursing Dogs

If you’re looking for a premium lactating dog supplement, Nutrition Strength Vitamins for Nursing Dogs is a great choice. Our experience with this product has been positive, and we think it’s a great option for pet owners who want to support their dog’s post-natal recovery and ensure that their puppies are getting the nutrients they need.

Pros

• The proprietary blend of vitamins and minerals is designed to meet the special requirements of the lactating mom and can help ensure that your pet gets sufficient amounts of the important nutrients she needs.
• The vitamins for nursing dogs promote increased lactation and milk quality, which makes them ideal for keeping your pet healthy before and after the birth of her litter of puppies.
• The soft chews are tasty and easy to administer, making it easy to give your pet the nutrients she needs.

Cons

• Some customers have reported that the soft chews are not as soft as they expected, but this hasn’t been an issue for us.
• The product is a bit pricey compared to other lactating dog supplements on the market, but we think it’s worth the investment.
• The dosage instructions can be a bit confusing, so make sure to carefully read the label and follow the recommended dosage for your pet’s weight.

We’ve found that Nutrition Strength Vitamins for Nursing Dogs is a great way to support your pet’s post-natal recovery and ensure that her puppies are getting the nutrients they need. The soft chews are easy to administer and our pet loves the taste, which makes it easy to give her the vitamins she needs. We’ve seen an increase in milk production and quality since we started using this product, which has been great for our pet and her puppies.

One thing to keep in mind is that the soft chews can be a bit hard, so you may need to break them up into smaller pieces for your pet to chew. Additionally, the dosage instructions can be a bit confusing, so make sure to carefully read the label and follow the recommended dosage for your pet’s weight.

Overall, we think Nutrition Strength Vitamins for Nursing Dogs is a great choice for pet owners who want to support their dog’s post-natal recovery and ensure that their puppies are getting the nutrients they need. While the product is a bit pricey, we think it’s worth the investment for the health and well-being of your pet and her puppies.

Buying Guide

When it comes to buying food for your pregnant or nursing dog, there are a few key features to look for to ensure that you are getting the best product for your furry friend. Here are some things to consider when choosing a dog food:

Nutritional Requirements

Pregnant and nursing dogs have unique nutritional needs that should be met by their food. Look for a dog food that is specifically formulated for pregnant or nursing dogs, as these foods will contain the necessary nutrients to support the health of both the mother and her puppies.

Quality Ingredients

The quality of the ingredients in your dog’s food is important, especially during pregnancy and nursing. Look for a dog food that uses high-quality, whole-food ingredients, and avoid foods that contain fillers, by-products, or artificial preservatives.

Protein Content

Protein is essential for the growth and development of your dog’s puppies. Look for a dog food that contains high-quality sources of protein, such as chicken, turkey, or beef, and avoid foods that rely heavily on plant-based proteins.

Omega-3 Fatty Acids

Omega-3 fatty acids are important for brain development and can help support the immune system. Look for a dog food that contains a good source of omega-3 fatty acids, such as fish oil or flaxseed.

Caloric Density

Pregnant and nursing dogs require more calories than non-pregnant dogs. Look for a dog food that is higher in calories to ensure that your dog is getting the energy she needs to support her puppies.

By considering these features when choosing a dog food for your pregnant or nursing dog, you can help ensure that she receives the proper nutrition to support the health of both her and her puppies.

Frequently Asked Questions

What type of diet is recommended for a pregnant dog to ensure proper nutrition?

A pregnant dog requires a diet that is high in protein, fat, and calories to support her growing puppies. We recommend feeding your pregnant dog a high-quality commercial dog food that is specifically formulated for pregnant or nursing dogs. Look for dog food that contains at least 25% protein and 15% fat. Additionally, you can supplement your dog’s diet with cooked meat, eggs, and vegetables to provide extra nutrition.

How can I increase milk production in my nursing dog through her diet?

To increase milk production in your nursing dog, we recommend feeding her a diet that is high in protein and calories. Look for dog food that contains at least 28% protein and 18% fat. Additionally, you can supplement your dog’s diet with cooked meat, eggs, and vegetables to provide extra nutrition. It’s also important to make sure your dog is well-hydrated, so be sure to provide her with plenty of fresh water.

Are there specific brands of dog food that are optimal for pregnant or nursing dogs?

There are many high-quality dog food brands that are formulated specifically for pregnant or nursing dogs. Look for brands that contain high levels of protein and fat, as well as essential vitamins and minerals. Some popular brands include Royal Canin, Hill’s Science Diet, and Purina Pro Plan.

Is raw food diet suitable for dogs during pregnancy and lactation?

Raw food diets can be risky for pregnant or nursing dogs, as they may contain harmful bacteria such as salmonella and E. coli. We recommend feeding your dog a high-quality commercial dog food that is specifically formulated for pregnant or nursing dogs. If you are considering a raw food diet, be sure to consult with your veterinarian first.

What should I do if my pregnant dog is refusing to eat?

If your pregnant dog is refusing to eat, it’s important to consult with your veterinarian. Loss of appetite can be a sign of a serious health problem, and your vet can help determine the underlying cause. In the meantime, you can try offering your dog small, frequent meals of high-quality dog food, or try adding some cooked meat or vegetables to her diet to entice her to eat.

At what stage of pregnancy should I switch my dog’s food to support her and her puppies?

We recommend switching your dog’s food to a high-quality commercial dog food that is specifically formulated for pregnant or nursing dogs around the third week of pregnancy. This will ensure that your dog is getting the proper nutrition to support her growing puppies. Be sure to make the switch gradually over a period of several days to avoid upsetting your dog’s stomach.